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TOURO UNIVERSITY NEVADA
College of Health and Human Services
School of Education
Student Handbook
Revised: July 24, 2008
Effective: September 9, 2007
TOURO UNIVERSITY NEVADA – SCHOOL OF EDUCATION – STUDENT HANDBOOK
Page
SECTION I TOURO UNIVERSITY NEVADA 5
Non-Discrimination Policy
Historical Perspective 5
Mission of Touro College 6
Vision Statement of Touro University Nevada 6
Mission of Touro University Nevada 6
SECTION II TOURO UNIVERSITY NEVADA SCHOOL OF EDUCATION 6
Accreditation and Approval 6
Degree Awarded
SECTION III OFFICE OF STUDENT AFFAIRS 7
Office of the Registrar 7
Matriculation and Registration 7
Bursar’s Office 7
Tuition Payment 7
Student Financial Aid
Financial Assistance Programs Administered by Federal and State Agencies 8
Federal subsidized Stafford Loans and Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans 8
Federal Work-Study Program 9
Nevada Graduate State Fellowship 9
Veterans Benefits 9
Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress for Financial Aid Eligibility 9
Academic Standards of Progress 10
Student Counseling 10
Faculty Mentors/Advisors 12
Student Organizations
Student Government Association 12
Recognition of Student Organizations 12
Student Representation 12
Student Organization Stationery Usage Policy 13 14
Extra-Curricular Activities 14
Publications 14
On-Campus Student Events 14
Alcohol Policy for Student Events 14
Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act 15
SECTION IV GENERAL ACADEMIC POLICIES 15
Transfer Students – Touro University Nevada 15
Procedure for Transfer Students 15
Permanent Address 15
Name Change 15
Transcripts 15
New Student Orientation 16
Student Identification 16
Student Records 16
Disclosure and Access to Records 16
Disclosure of Student Directory Information 16
Procedure for Disclosure and Access to
Student Records 16
Academic Records 17
Class Rank 17
Elective Courses 17
Audited Courses 17
Attendance Policies 17
Leave of Absence 17
Military Leave 18
Withdrawal Policies 18
Withdrawal from the University 18
Withdrawal Tuition Refund Schedule 19
Visitors 19
SECTION V GENERAL ACADEMIC STANDARDS 20
Grading and Credit Hours 20
Definition of Grades 20
Veterans Benefits/Academic Progress 21
Academic Probation 21
Dismissal from the College 22
Academic Appeal Process 22
Graduation Requirements – Touro University Nevada 23
Student Academic Integrity and Ethics 23
Code of Conduct/Professional Promise 23
Student Academic Ethics:
A Guide to Academic Honesty 24
Student Discipline Procedures 25
SECTION VI UNIVERSITY COMPUTER SERVICES 25
SECTION VII DISABILITY SERVICES 26
SECTION VIII INSTITUTIONAL POLICIES 31
Smoking 31
Drugs, Alcohol, Firearms and Hazing 31
Drug-Free Workplace and Substance Abuse
Policy and Procedures 32
Sexual Harassment 32
HIV/AIDS 32
Impairment of Life Safety Devices/Systems 32
Eating and Drinking in Classrooms/Laboratories 33
Parking 33
Vehicle Towing 33
Lockers 33
Lost and Found 33
APPENDIX A: CODE OF RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS OF THE STUDENTS OF ]
TOURO UNIVERSITY NEVADA (TU-N) 34
Title 34
Definition and Basic Concepts 34
Student Responsibilities 35
Students Rights 35
Sanctions 36
Amendment of This Code 36
APPENDIX B: TOURO UNIVERSITY NEVADA BYLAWS AND REGULATIONS OF
THE CODE OF RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS OF THE STUDENTS
OF TOURO UNIVERSITY 37
Student Concerns and Grievances 37
Conduct Violations 37
Informal Method of Resolution 38
Formal Method of Resolution 38
Procedures for Formal Resolution – Conduct Infractions 38
APPENDIX C: GUIDELINES FOR ACCESS TO AND DISCLOSURE OF EDUCATIONAL RECORDS MAINTAINED BY TOURO UNIVERSITY 42
I. Definitions 42
II. Inspection and Review of Education Records 43
III. Disclosure of Personally Identifiable Information from Education Records 46
IV. Annual Notification of Rights 49
SECTION I TOURO UNIVERSITY – NEVADA
The Student Handbook contains policies and requirements which govern academic performance and student conduct. These policies are unique to Touro University Nevada, and are designed to promote standards for academic competency, professional discipline and personal responsibility. It represents the parameters of achievement and behavior the faculty expects of its students. It is the responsibility of all students to be knowledgeable about Touro University Nevada policies. These policies will be applied to all aspects of the student’s academic progress and personal conduct for as long as the student is enrolled.
This handbook applies to all students currently enrolled in the School of Education, and only where stipulated, do policies and requirements apply differently for individual classes.
Touro University Nevada reserves the right to make changes at any time in this handbook or in the requirements for admission, graduation, tuition, fees and any rules or regulations. Touro University Nevada maintains the right to refuse to matriculate a student deemed by the faculty to be academically incompetent or otherwise unfit or unsuited for enrollment.
Non-Discrimination Policy
It is the policy of the University to admit qualified students irrespective of race, age, gender, color, creed, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, or disability. To be considered for admission to any program offered by the University, a student must possess the academic credentials and professional attributes deemed essential by the respective program admission’s committee for selection to the program.
Historical Perspective
Touro University is a Jewish-sponsored independent institution of higher and professional education founded by Bernard Lander, PhD, LHD. The institution derives its name from Judah and Isaac Touro, leaders of colonial America who represented the ideal upon which we base our mission.
Touro College was chartered by the State of New York in 1970. The first students enrolled in 1971; the class consisted of 35 liberal arts and science students. Since those early days, the institution has experienced substantial growth.
Touro College has developed in a major institution of higher education, which includes the following schools: The College of Arts and Sciences (1971); the School of Health Sciences (1972); the School of General Studies (1974); the Graduate School of Jewish Studies (1979); the Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center (1980); the School for Lifelong Education (1989); the New York School of Career and Applied Science (1995); the Graduate School of Education and Psychology (1995); Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine Vallejo (founded in 1997 as the San Francisco College of Osteopathic Medicine); Touro University International, offering degree programs on the internet in Cypress, California (1999); the Lander College for Men in Kew Garden Hills (2000) created in 2001 through a merger of two previously separate divisions, the School of General Studies (founded in (1974) and the School of Career and Applied Studies (created in 1995); and Touro University Nevada (2004).
Touro opened a branch in Moscow in Spring 1991 and its operations now include the Institute of Jewish Studies (branch campus) and a business program with Moscow University Touro (an independent entity) operated through an inter-institutional agreement. The branch campus in Jerusalem comprises the Graduate School of Jewish Studies, an undergraduate business program and the Touro Israel Option (year abroad program). In October 2003, Touro opened a small branch campus in Berlin.
Touro has long been interested in medical education. In 1983, Touro established the Center for Biomedical Education, a cooperative program leading to an M.D. from the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Israel’s premier school of applied sciences. Success in this and other related programs led Touro to explore the possibility of establishing a college of osteopathic medicine. Touro sought incorporation in the State of California, and in 1997 located a campus in the San Francisco Bay Area. The campus was moved to Mare Island, California in 1999. In 2003, Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine (TUCOM) became the Founding College of Touro University California. Touro University California is now composed of four colleges – College of Osteopathic Medicine (grants the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Degree – D.O.), the College of Health Sciences (founded 2003) (grants the Bachelor of Science and the Master of Science in Physician Assistant studies – MSPAS and Master of Public Health – MPH), the College of Education (founded 2004) (provides teacher credentials), and the College of Pharmacy which received pre-candidate status from the American Council of Pharmaceutical Education.
As Touro College looked to other potential sites for a college of osteopathic medicine, Nevada was chosen as a potential site due to the current physician shortage in Nevada and the rapidly growing population within Las Vegas and the surrounding communities. The branch campus, Touro University of Osteopathic Medicine Nevada, matriculated its first class in Fall 2004 and provided programs in osteopathic medicine and physician studies. Touro University Nevada now consists of the College of Osteopathic Medicine and the College of Health and Human Services providing educational programs in nursing, occupational therapy, and education.
Mission of Touro College
Touro College is an independent institution of higher and professional education under Jewish sponsorship, established to perpetuate and enrich the Jewish heritage and to serve the larger community in keeping with the Judaic commitment to social justice, intellectual pursuit, and service to humanity.
Vision Statement of Touro University Nevada
The vision of Touro University Nevada is: Educating caring professionals to serve, to lead, to teach.
Mission of Touro University Nevada
The mission of Touro University Nevada is to provide quality educational programs in the fields of health care and education in concert with the Judaic commitment to social justice, intellectual pursuit, and service to humanity.
SECTION II TOURO UNIVERSITY NEVADA SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
Accreditation and Approval
Touro University is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities. The programs are also licensed by the Nevada Commission on Postsecondary Education.
Degree Awarded
Master of Education – School Administration
Master of Education – Special Education Generalist
Master of Education – Secondary Education
Master of Education – Curriculum & Instruction with emphasis on Diversity and National Board Certification
Master of Education – Literacy and Language
Endorsements
Teaching English as a Second Language Endorsement
Autism Endorsement
Literacy Endorsement
SECTION III OFFICE OF STUDENT AFFAIRS
The Office of Student Affairs, which is under the supervision of the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research, is located at 874 American Pacific Drive, Henderson, Nevada 89014. This office coordinates a variety of student support service functions within the University including the publication and distribution of the Student Handbook.
Student Affairs interacts with students to develop and offer support programs and services which enrich students’ experiences on campus. The Office of Student Affairs is available to students on a continuing basis supporting student concerns and challenges.
Office of the Registrar
The Office of the Registrar is responsible for the official documentation for student enrollment at the University. The services provided by the Office of the Registrar include course registration, transcript requests, processing requests for withdrawal or a leave of absence from the University, transfer requests, adding or dropping a course, and certifying enrollment for student loans.
Matriculation and Registration
All students will be required to register in person on the registration day specified in the College calendar. Failure to register on that day may be grounds for dismissal. Arrangement for payment of full tuition and fees and prior debts must be made on or before registration day each academic term. Matriculation and promotion are subject to satisfactory completion of all academic requirements and payment of all outstanding debts to the University. Prior registration, official transcripts, including a final transcripts indicating conferral of Bachelor’s degree, and transcripts from all colleges and universities which the student has previously attended must be on file in the Office of the Registrar.
Students will register on the first day of classes, each term.
Bursar’s Office
The function of the Bursar’s Office is to manage student accounts and collect tuition and fees from students on behalf of the University. The Bursar’s Office receives and disburses the federal and private loans that the students receive through the Financial Aid Office. The Bursar’s Office also processes refund checks for students who receive funds in excess of their tuition and fees to cover their living expenses while attending the University. In addition, the Bursar works with those students who are having financial difficulty meeting their financial obligations to the University.
Tuition Payment
All checks and money orders should be made payable to Touro University, with the student’s social security number indicated on the front. If tuition payments are made through the mail, please address the envelope as follows:
Touro University
Office of the Bursar
874 American Pacific Drive
Henderson, Nevada 89014
Student Financial Aid
The program provides financial assistance to students who, without such assistance, would be unable to attend Touro University Nevada. It is to this end that Touro University Nevada participates in and receives funds from federal, state and local sources, some of which may include:
Federal Subsidized Stafford Loans
Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
Nevada Graduate State Fellowship
Alternative loan through selected lenders
Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program
Air Force Health Professions Scholarship Program
Veterans Administration Benefits
Eligibility for financial assistance is determined by means of a federally recognized Need Analysis System. These systems review and evaluate student income and assets and determine what amount of personal resources should be available to meet the cost of education as determined by respective College. If resources are less than expenses, then students are considered to have an established financial need and are eligible to receive financial aid funds. The above is based on the premise that students will submit all required documentation on time to the Financial Aid Office and that there are financial aid funds available at the time the application is reviewed.
The Touro University Nevada financial aid philosophy assumes that all students should be prepared and willing to provide some of the financial resources needed during their enrollment. Students may do this by providing funds to cover their living expenses (rent, food, utilities, and transportation). If necessary, the University can assist students with their living expenses through alternative loans or work-study programs.
The financial aid funds that a student will receive while in attendance at Touro University Nevada are primarily student loans. In order to maintain as limited indebtedness as possible, Touro University Nevada encourages students to investigate other avenues for possible grants, scholarships, low interest rate loans and free money. Other financial resources include religious organizations and private organizations with which students or family members are currently affiliated.
Students wishing to speak with the Director of Financial Aid are encouraged to make an appointment. Walk-ins will be accepted.
Financial Assistance Programs Administered by Federal and State Agencies
Federal Subsidized Stafford Loans and Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
Federal Subsidized Stafford Loans – The U.S. Department of Education pays the interest while the student is in a deferment status and during the grace period.
Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans – The student pays the interest while he/she is in a deferment status and during the grace period.
These loans are made through lending institutions, such as banks, etc. The federal government guarantees repayment of the loan and may pay the interest while the borrower is a student. Students must demonstrate financial need throughout the University’s regular financial aid application process to receive a Subsidized Stafford Loan.
Funds are issued in two (2) installments during the academic year – one each semester. Loan payments are mailed to the University and released to students in one payment each semester after enrollment and/or satisfactory academic progress have been verified. Prior to receipt of a Federal Stafford Loan an origination and an insurance premium will be subtracted from the proceeds of the loan. These fees are subject to change. The interest rate is variable and capped at 9%. Students are granted a six-month grace period after graduation or withdrawal from the University before interest is charged or repayment begins. The minimum repayment is $50 per month. A separate loan application must be completed to apply for funds from this program.
Federal Work-Study Program
The purpose of the Federal Work-Study Program is to stimulate and promote part-time employment, particularly for those with great financial need.
Part-time positions available through the Federal Work-Study Program may involve work at the University or in a public or private non-profit organization. Students may work no more than an average of 20 hours per week when classes are in session and up to 30 hours per week when classes are not in session. In accordance with federal regulations, the student’s net earnings, that is gross earnings minus taxes and incidental expenses, must be applied against the student’s cost of education for his/her next period of regular enrollment at the University.
The minimum pay rate for Federal Work-Study positions at Touro University Nevada is $10.00 per hour and students are paid according to established payroll procedures.
Eligibility for the University Work-Study Program is determined by Touro University Nevada’s Financial Aid Office.
Nevada Graduate State Fellowship
The Nevada Student Aid Commission awards approximately 500 Graduate State Fellowships annually to Nevada residents. Candidates must plan to pursue recognized degrees at eligible Nevada graduate/professional schools and must demonstrate their intent to become a college or university faculty member.
This program assists with tuition and fees. Details and application forms are available from the Financial Aid Office.
Veterans Benefits
Many programs of educational assistance benefits are available to those who have served in the active military, naval or air service and to their dependents. Detailed information on all veterans’ benefits can be obtained from offices of the Veterans Administration.
The standards of academic progress for students receiving educational benefits through the Veterans Administration are as follows:
Probation is defined as a period of time during which the student’s progress will be closely monitored by the Student Promotion Committee and the Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Planning.
The period of probation will be a maximum of three (3) consecutive semesters.
A student who is placed on probation for more than three (3) consecutive semesters will be ineligible for certification of educational benefits through the Veterans Administration.
Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress for Financial Aid Eligibility
Touro University Nevada must establish, publish and apply reasonable standards of satisfactory academic progress for financial aid eligibility as required by federal law for all students including those applying for or currently receiving federal, state or institutional financial assistance and veteran’s educational benefits administered by the University.
Academic Standards of Progress
Touro University of Nevada - School of Education
Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy
Federal regulations require Touro University to establish standards of academic progress for students who are the recipients of federal student aid. This policy defines “satisfactory academic progress” in terms of the student’s ability to continue to receive federal student aid; the policy is related only to financial aid; this policy should not be confused with other policies for academic probation and/or suspension.
Touro University has established specific guidelines for satisfactory academic progress for students enrolled in the Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, School Administration, Literacy and Language and Special Education program of study. All students who receive federal financial aid must meet federal and institutional standards of satisfactory academic progress in order to retain eligibility to receive federal financial aid.
The standards of satisfactory academic progress measure a student’s performance in three areas:
1. Cumulative grade point average.
2. Completion rate based on total credit hours completed compared to total credit hours attempted.
3. Maximum time frame for program completion.
Academic progress is reviewed at the end of each semester. Students who fail to maintain satisfactory academic progress at the conclusion of any semester may be placed on probation, suspension, or dismissed. A student’s failure to maintain established academic standards of the Education program may also result in the cancellation of financial aid eligibility.
This satisfactory academic progress policy applies to all semesters of enrollment at Touro University, regardless of whether financial aid is awarded.
Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA)
Students are required to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 at the end of each semester. Transfer credits will have no effect on the GPA for the purposes of financial aid satisfactory academic progress.
Completion Rate
Students are required to successfully complete 67% of all coursework with a passing grade of at least 70%. At the end of each semester a review is completed to evaluate each student’s academic progress by comparing the cumulative total number of attempted credit hours with the cumulative total credits successfully completed. Attempted credit hours are all credit hours in which the student was enrolled at the end of each semester’s add/drop period including for example, for credit, no credit, withdrawn, and repeated (remediation) classes. Successfully completed credit hours are only those credits for which a grade of at least 70%, U/C-successful remediation, and/or satisfactory (P) are earned. Successfully completed credit hours do not include those credits for which a grade of U-Unsatisfactory/Failure, NC -No credit, IP-Course in Progress, INC-Incomplete, W-Withdrawal or Dropped is awarded. AU-Audited courses will not be computed as attempted or successfully completed credit hours.
Probation, Suspension or Dismissal
Any student failing to meet either the minimum cumulative GPA standard of 3.0 or the 67% completion rate standard at the end of any semester may be placed on probation for one semester of enrollment at the discretion of the University. Any student failing to raise his or her cumulative GPA to a minimum of 3.0 and/or to meet the 67% completion rate standard by the end of the probationary period will be dismissed or suspended. A student is eligible for financial aid during the probationary period.
Maximum Timeframe
Maximum timeframe is defined as the maximum number of credit hours a student may attempt in pursuit of a degree. The maximum time frame for completion of the Master’s program is 150% of the length of the program in credit hours, rounded up to the nearest credit.
If at the end of any semester it is determined that a student cannot possibly complete the program’s graduation requirements within the maximum credit attempts allowed, the student will be determined to not be making satisfactory academic progress (unsatisfactory academic progress) and will be suspended or dismissed.
Change of Program
If a student changes his or her program of study, all attempted credits that apply to the new program of study will be used to calculate the student’s progress under the standards of satisfactory academic progress.
Notification of Lack of Satisfactory Academic Progress
Evaluations of cumulative grade point average, completion rate, and maximum time frame are performed at the end of each semester and the University will send written notification to all students who have not met the required standards for satisfactory academic progress. The notification advises the student of the nature of his or her academic deficiency, any methods that may be available for correcting the deficiency, and consequences that have resulted or may result, such as probation, suspension, or dismissal. Students will be placed on financial aid probation for no less than one semester and no more than two consecutive semesters at the discretion of the university.
If a student on probation does not meet the minimum standards of academic progress by the end of the probationary period, the University will advise the student of the required steps to regain eligibility. At the discretion of the University, a student may be allowed to remain enrolled until the student meets the standards; however, the student would not be eligible for financial aid until satisfactory academic progress has been re-established.
A letter of academic status created by the academic department will be placed in the student’s records that are maintained with the Office of the Registrar. Copies of notifications are sent to the Office of Financial Aid, Office of the Bursar and Office of Student Services.
Appeal of Unsatisfactory Academic Progress
Students who wish to appeal a determination of unsatisfactory academic progress due to mitigating circumstances may do so by submitting a written appeal with documentation of the circumstance to the Program Director or designee. This appeal must be submitted within seven calendar days of the notification of unsatisfactory progress; the university may choose to make an exception to the timeline if extenuating circumstances exist.
Examples of mitigating circumstances that may be considered are serious illness or injury of the student or the student’s dependents, severe illness or death of an immediate family member, military deployment, or other serious and unusual circumstances that hindered progress. The student will need to provide evidence that the mitigating circumstance(s) no longer hinders progress.
Appeal decisions are made on an individual basis after considering all pertinent circumstances and documentation. The decision will be made by the academic Program Director or designee and based upon the nature of the mitigating circumstances, documentation, the student’s academic record, and the advice of the student’s faculty advisor, course instructors, and other individuals as appropriate. If the appeal is approved, the student may be granted financial aid for a probationary period.
Other Institutions
For the Masters Program in the School of Education the School of Education Curriculum Committee will consider transferring in up to 12 credits. When the program grants a student transfer credit toward degree completion requirements, no grade will be calculated for those courses, nor will they count toward the 67% progress requirement. Cumulative grade point average and courses completed, for the purposes of financial aid, will be calculated only on the curricular requirements remaining after transfer or experiential credit is awarded. The maximum time frame calculation will include any transfer credits applied to the degree requirements.
Student Counseling
Emotional disturbances may arise occasionally among students enrolled in the programs of Touro University Nevada. These episodes are usually brief and carry a good prognosis. Students can contact the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research to discuss options for counseling and to arrange for an initial interview. All aspects of mental health care are strictly confidential. Touro University Nevada participates in EAP, a service that provides acute counseling services to individual students.
Faculty Mentors/Advisors
The faculty advisor program plays an important role at Touro University Nevada. Students and faculty work very closely together in the academic arena. This kind of educational interaction permits students to get to know their teachers and vice-versa. Students are encouraged to use the advice, expertise and help of the faculty through the faculty advisor program. At a minimum, the faculty advisor is an advocate who takes a personal interest in his/her assigned students. Clinical departments assume responsibility for advising students in the clinical years. In addition to a faculty advisor, a student may seek the advice of a mentor. The College will endeavor to assist in this process.
Students should feel free to contact their faculty advisor as frequently as necessary for advice, encouragement and support. Faculty advisors do assume a pro-active role and become involved with their students when performance levels fail to meet minimum academic standards.
Student Organizations
Student Government Association
(SGA) is the official voice for all students. The organization is open to all students in the University and welcomes proposals and participation from the entire body.
The responsibilities of SGA include: collecting and expressing student opinion, dispensing funds for student activities, acting as a liaison for the student body, promoting professional education, supporting club and class activities and working to improve the quality of life for all students at Touro University Nevada.
Recognition of Student Organizations
To ensure that organizations seeking recognition meet the high standards of Touro University Nevada and its student population, the appropriate SGA shall have the power to recognize all student organizations.
Student:
1. The students and faculty advisor seeking group recognition must complete a petition for recognition.
2. The petition must include the organization’s name and goals, proposed charter, name of faculty advisor, and list of charter members.
3. A complete copy of a proposed charter or constitution and by-laws must be attached to the recognition petition.
Student Government Association:
1. The SGA will review the petition.
2. The SGA has the authority to approve, approve for a one-year probationary period, or disapprove the organization.
3. A majority vote of those SGA members voting shall determine the status of the applicant group. Appeal of the SGA decision may be made to the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research.
4. The SGA has the right to annually review the status of any organization. The SGA may require every approved organization to submit an annual report.
5. The SGA will have the discretion to hear objections related to the recognized organization.
6. The SGA shall ensure that no action shall be taken concerning the student organization’s status unless the organization in question has an opportunity to hear the charges made against it and present its side of the issue.
7. The SGA shall ensure that a group submitting an unapproved application may resubmit its application at any time after having satisfied the objections of the SGA.
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research:
1. Reviews the petition for a new university organization to ensure proper documentation.
2. Recommends approval or denial.
3. Forwards the recommendation to the appropriate Dean or Program Director.
Dean/Program Director:
Reviews the petition for a new university organization and approves or disapproves it.
Renewal of Recognition
The SGA conducts an annual review of all approved student organizations to determine whether the organizations are indeed providing activities and services that are consistent with their charter enabling them to accomplish their organization’s goals. Based on the results of its annual review, the SGA, by vote of its members, makes a recommendation to the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research regarding the renewal of an organization’s approved status. Following administrative review by the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research, a recommendation is submitted to the appropriate college dean/program director.
The voting options available to the SGA are to recommend approval, denial or probationary status for an organization. A student organization whose activities have been substantially inconsistent with its charter or have failed to lead to progress toward its goals shall be recommended for probationary status. Continued failure of a student organization while on probation to provide activities consistent with its charter and goals shall result in a recommendation to deny renewed recognition.
Student Representation
Student representation is provided on appropriate college/university committees. Any full-time student in good academic standing (i.e., not on any form of probation) is qualified to seek appointment or election to serve in a representative capacity on these college/university committees. Interested students must apply by the posted deadlines to the SGA for consideration. Students who have committee assignments and are placed on academic probation will be required to resign their position and another student will be elected to serve on the committee.
Student Organization Stationery Usage Policy
To use the stationery bearing the University logo, seal or facsimile thereof in any correspondence, a student organization must have approved or probationary status and have received approval from the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research. Requests to use stationery bearing the college/institutional logo or seal must be submitted in writing to the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Students or student organizations wishing to host events involving extracurricular academic activities, i.e., speakers, mini-courses, drug fairs or non-credit courses, must have the approval of the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research. Written requests to approve the sponsored extracurricular activities by a student or student organization should be submitted to the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research. Request forms are available in the Office of Student Affairs.
Publications
Yearbooks and other sanctioned student publications are published under the auspices of the University. Traditionally, the University contracts with its students to develop edit and prepare these works for publication.
On-Campus Student Events
To provide a mechanism for student groups (organizations, classes, etc.) to have on-campus student events, all student groups (organizations, classes, etc.) seeking to have an on-campus student event must have prior approval of the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research, who will advise the student organizer of the necessary steps to follow in order to schedule the event.
Student groups (organizations, classes, etc.) can obtain a Student Activity Approval/Room Reservation Request form from the Office of Student Affairs. The Student Activity Approval/Room Reservation Request form must be completed and submitted at least two weeks before the on-campus event it to be held.
Once the approval has been obtained for the on-campus student event, the Student Activities Office will coordinate the scheduling of the event by contacting campus administration to arrange for security and housekeeping, if applicable. If the student event is to be held at a location which is controlled by the Campus Facilities Office, the student will be notified by the Student Affairs Office of the procedure to be followed. Any event sponsored by student groups (organizations, classes, etc.) which violates any of the provisions of the policy on “On-Campus Student Events” will be subject to cancellation or termination.
Alcohol Policy for Student Events
The University will not authorize the use of general student fees or other funds collected and administered by a University office or agency for the purchase, supply or serving of any alcoholic beverage or to partially or totally support events where alcoholic beverages are served or provided to student participants as part of the event. This policy does not apply to approved functions which are directly sponsored and organized by the University.
Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act
As required by federal law, Touro University Nevada makes information available to students about policies and procedures to report criminal actions on campus, current policies concerning security and access to facilities on campus, and information on campus law enforcement and statistics concerning incidents of campus crime. Students interested in this information should contact the Office of Student Affairs.
SECTION IV GENERAL ACADEMIC POLICIES
Students may be granted credit for a maximum of twelve credits.
Procedure for Transfer Students
Admissions Committee and Standards Review
Once the candidate’s file is complete, the Admissions Committee will meet and determine availability based upon the student’s academic record and compatibility with the mission of the institution. Admissions may reject the applicant at this stage, or if found acceptable, may send the file on for consideration by the Student Promotion Committee.
Personal Interview
The Director of Admissions, on the recommendation of both the Admissions Committee and the Student Promotion Committee will invite the transfer candidate to Touro University Nevada to be interviewed by the Admissions Committee.
Final Decision
Following the personal interview, the Admissions Committee will either charge the Director of Admissions with advising the candidate that the request for transfer has not been approved, or will recommend to the Dean of the College that the request for transfer be granted. The Dean shall finally determine admission status and class standing.
Permanent Address
The Office of the Registrar maintains the official permanent address for all enrolled students of Touro University Nevada. Each student has the responsibility to provide the Office of the Registrar with a current address, email address and telephone number. Students also are expected to furnish the Registrar with their local address and telephone number. Any change of address, email address and/or telephone number must be reported to the Registrar.
Name Change
The university adjusts its records appropriately if a student legally changes his/her name. A student who has a legal change of name must submit, to the Registrar, the legal documents (court order, marriage license, etc.) related to the change. All permanent records are changed to conform to the student’s legal name.
Transcripts
Unofficial copies of student transcripts are available electronically through the Touro University Nevada website. In order to request an official transcript, written authorization must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar. A form for such a request is available from the Registrar. There is a $5.00 fee for each transcript requested. The transcript is official only when it bears the signature of the Registrar and the seal of the University. Transcripts may be withheld from students who are delinquent in their financial obligations to the University. If the University has knowledge that a student or graduate is in default on any federal, state, outside agency institutional loan or service obligation, the University will withhold all official transcripts, scores, and letters of recommendation for internships, employment, staff privileges, specialty certification and licensing.
Student Identification
The Office of Student Affairs issues photo-identification (ID) badges to new students during orientation or the first week of class. This badge must be worn while a student is in any institutional facility or is participating in an internship at another facility. This ID badge must be displayed in such a manner that it is readily visible. Failure to wear and/or properly display the student identification badge may result in a member of the security staff requesting the student to leave the building, denying the student admission to the building or referring the student to the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research. If a student identification badge is lost or stolen, the student is required to inform the Office of Student Affairs and arrange for a replacement badge. A fee of $15.00 will be charged to replace a lost or stolen ID badge.
Student Records
Disclosure and Access to Records
Students who are currently or have been previously enrolled at the institution have the right to inspect and review certain educational records and to withhold from release certain personally identifiable information in accordance with the Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974. This policy regarding student access to educational records does not include the right to review such items as confidential letters and statements of recommendation if the student has waived the right to inspect and review those recommendations.
Disclosure of Student Directory Information
The University designates the following personally identifiable items as Student Directory Information: Student name, address, telephone number, email address, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, most recent previous school attended and photograph. The University may disclose any of those items listed above as public information without prior written consent, unless notified in writing to the contrary by December 31 of each academic year. Other confidential personal information not listed above as Student Directory Information may not be disclosed to third parties without the prior written consent of the student, except under certain circumstances. These exceptions include, but are not limited to, disclosure of institutional officials performing assigned duties related to the educational or accreditation interests of the University, agencies verifying the financial aid status of the student, parties involved in health or safety emergencies related to the student or others, and certain law enforcement, legal or judicial authorities.
Procedure for Disclosure and Access to Student Records
Disclosure and access to a student’s educational records may be requested through institutional policy as follows: A student desiring to inspect and review his/her records must submit a written request directly to the person in charge of the desired records (see below). The request will be granted within a reasonable time period, not to exceed 45 days. Inspection of records is made in front of the administrator or designee responsible for maintaining the records.
Academic Records
Student academic records are maintained by the Office of the Registrar and include a summary of all required and elective courses and grades, record of audited courses, evaluation of student clerkships, preceptorships and class ranking. Students may access and inspect their records by making an appointment with the Registrar’s Office.
Class Rank
Class rankings are usually provided to currently enrolled students in applicable programs and may be requested from the Office of the Registrar either in person or in writing. Class ranking is determined on the basis of the cumulative-weighted average of the numerical equivalent of letter grades earned from all completed required courses. A = 4 points, B = 3 points, C = 2 points, U = 0 points. Individual course grades are weighted in the formulation relative to course credit hours. Credit hours earned from courses evaluated on a pass/fail basis, including elective courses, are not used in the determination of cumulative-weighted grade point average.
Elective Courses
An elective course is an institutionally approved series of instructional sessions that are developed outside of the required curriculum and offered by the College faculty to currently enrolled students in addition to prescribed courses. Students officially registered in elective courses receive credit commensurate with contact hours, which is included on the student’s permanent record. Student performance is evaluated on a pass/fail basis. Students interested in registering for an elective course should first contact the course coordinator who must approve enrollment. Procedures for registering for elective courses can be obtained from the Office of the Registrar.
Audited Courses
An audited course is defined as the registration and participation of a student in a course for which the student received no credit or grade. However, a record of the audited course will be maintained in the student’s permanent academic file. Students interested in registering to audit a course should first contact the course coordinator who must approve enrollment. Procedures for registering for audited courses can be obtained from the Office of the Registrar. Registration for audits must be completed during the normal registration period. Students registered for an audited course cannot change back to credit for the course after the first day of class.
Attendance Policies
Attendance/Participation
It is expected that students will attend all instructional sessions, required activities, and field assignments. The College of Education attendance policy supports the belief that attendance at all sessions is crucial to benefit from the learning experience. Students who arrive late to class or leave early may have one point deducted from their grade each time this occurs. Students who are absent from a Monday – Friday session will have 3 points deducted from their grade, and 6 points deducted if absent from a Sunday session, including absences for minor illness, family commitments, conflicting works schedules, etc. Students who present documentation of required attendance at a school activity (such as an open house or back to school night) will not be penalized for their absence. (The Department Curriculum Committee retains the discretion to make individual exceptions to this policy based upon extenuating circumstances.) Absences from any class session for any reason do not relieve the student from responsibility for the covered material or assignments.
Leave of Absence
A leave of absence is defined as a pre-approved leave from the University that suspends a student’s course of academic study for a defined period of time. The amount of leave time granted depends largely on the personal needs of the student and timing of the withdrawal within the academic program. Leaves of absence usually do not exceed 9 months. Circumstances necessitating a leave of absence may include, but are not limited to, short or long-term personal illness, military training or obligations, jury duty, maternity and infant care, and critical illness or death of an immediate family member. A student requesting a leave of absence for any reason during or at the end of an academic year must adhere to the following general procedure:
1. The student must meet personally with the appropriate Associate Dean or director to discuss the reason for the leave and the effects on his/her academic progress. A mutual decision is reached after careful consideration is given to personal and professional circumstances.
2. The student must them complete a Leave of Absence Petition, which is to be submitted to the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research. After review of the petition, the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research will submit the petition with recommendation to the appropriate College Dean.
3. The Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research will send an official letter to the student indicating if the leave of absence has been approved or denied by the respective College Dean.
Provided that the leave is approved, the official start date of the leave of absence will be the original date of receipt of the student’s completed Leave of Absence Petition. Any tuition charged or refunded will be in accordance with the College’s withdrawal policy. Any changes in the terms of the petition during the leave period should be relayed to the appropriate College Dean as soon as possible. Reentry of the student into the academic program following a leave of absence will occur in coordination with the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research.
Military Leave
Touro University Nevada is committed to supporting students called to active military duty. Students called to such duty will be considered on military leave. Students called to active duty should immediately notify the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research and provide all of their pertinent call-up papers. Students returning to Touro University Nevada from active duty will be eligible for reinstatement as full-time Touro University Nevada students once they have notified the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research and have supplied any pertinent military papers requested by the Dean of Students.
Tuition charges for students restarting classes or for subsequent academic semesters will be set at the tuition rates in effect at the time the student returns from military duty. The Dean of the College will provide leadership to facilitate the re-entry of students into their programs as closely as possible to the point at which they were called to active military duty.
Withdrawal Policies
Withdrawal from the University
A student wishing to withdraw from Touro University Nevada is required to meet with the respective Dean or designate. The student must request approval of the Dean, in writing, of the decision to voluntarily withdraw and voluntarily relinquish his/her position in the program. If the request is approved, an official withdrawal form is obtained from the Registrar. The student must complete the official withdrawal form and deliver this form to the Office of the Registrar. The withdrawal process includes the clearing of all financial obligations to Touro University Nevada, completion of all administrative procedures, and completion of an exit interview with the respective Dean or designate. If withdrawal is granted, the student receives one of the following grades: W (withdrew) or WU (withdrew unsatisfactory). “W” is defined as withdrawal in good academic standing. “WU” is defined as withdrawal not in good academic standing.
Withdrawal Tuition Refund Schedule
For students enrolled in a Master's program, the following applies:
A student wishing to withdraw from classes must notify the Office of the Registrar by filling out an Add/Drop form. On approved applications, the following refund schedule will apply:
Before the opening of class 100% of tuition and fees
During the first week of classes 90% of tuition and fees
During the second week of classes 75% of tuition and fees
During the third week of classes 50% of tuition and fees
During the fourth week of classes 25% of tuition and fees
After the fourth week of classes No refund
*Please note that as of the summer 2000 session, new Federal regulations are in effect when a Title IV funds recipient withdraws from school. You may obtain a copy of these regulations from the Financial Aid Office. These Federal regulations will supersede the policy for refunds established by Touro University Nevada.
If the student has not paid full tuition and fees for the term in which the withdrawal takes place, he or she must pay the proportionate amount noted above before leaving the University. The withdrawal date is the date that the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Research receives written notice of withdrawal, i.e., a completed Official Withdrawal Form. In cases of academic dismissal, tuition paid in advance for the term immediately following the dismissal will be 100% refundable.
Withdrawal Tuition Refunds for CTE Students
For students enrolled in ASC through CTE, a full refund will be given if student withdraws no more than 1 1/2 weeks after class begins. No refund will be given for those students who withdraw after 1 1/2 weeks from the date the class begins.
Visitors
Only registered students are permitted in the Touro University Nevada buildings. Non-students are not allowed to attend any sessions. These regulations are strictly observed.
SECTION V: GENERAL ACADEMIC STANDARDS
Grading and Credit Hours
At the end of each course, a grade for each student will be submitted to the Registrar by the faculty responsible for instruction. Touro University Nevada makes use of letter grades. The work of all students in the four years at Touro University Nevada shall be reported in terms of the following grades in any of the required courses:
Grade Points Equivalent
97-100% 3.85-4.00 A+
93-96% 3.65-3.80 A
90-92% 3.50-3.60 A-
87-89% 3.35-3.45 B+
83-86% 3.15-3.30 B
80-82% 3.00-3.10 B-
77-79% 2.70-2.90 C+
73-76% 2.30-2.60 C
70-72% 2.00-2.20 C-
69% or below 0.00 U
Definition of Grades
Satisfactory “(A or B)”
An 80% or above in each course is considered a satisfactory grade for students enrolled in a Master's Program. An 83% or above in each course is considered a satisfactory grade for students enrolled in the ASC programs through CTE.
Unsatisfactory “(U)”
An unsatisfactory grade (U) is less than 80%.
Incomplete “(I)”
An incomplete grade “(I)” indicates that a student has not been able to finish all required work for issuance of a letter grade. An incomplete grade is not counted in the grade point calculations until a letter grade replaces it. An incomplete must be replaced before the student registers for the next academic year. Replacement of an incomplete will be under the direction of the instructor. If the required work is not completed within the specified time, the “(I)” will be automatically converted to an unsatisfactory grade “(U)”. It is to the student’s advantage to arrange to make up any incomplete work as soon as possible.
Withdrawal “(W)”
A withdrawal indicates that a student has withdrawn from a course in good academic standing.
Withdrawal Unsatisfactory “(WU)”
A withdrawal unsatisfactory indicates that a student has withdrawn from a course not in good academic standing.
Veterans Benefits/Academic Progress
Many programs of educational assistance benefits are available to those who have served in the active military, naval or air service and to their dependents. Detailed information on all veterans’ benefits can be obtained from offices of the Veterans Administration.
The standards of academic progress for students receiving educational benefits through the Veterans Administration are as follows:
1. Probation is defined as a period of time during which the student’s progress will be closely monitored by the Student Promotion Committee and the Vice President for Student Affairs and Institutional Planning.
2. The period of probation will be a maximum of three (3) consecutive semesters.
3. A student who is placed on probation for more than three (3) consecutive semesters will be ineligible for certification of educational benefits through the Veterans Administration.
Academic Probation
Students must meet the minimum standards and requirements set by the institution in order to remain in good academic standing. Students will be placed on academic probation if they receive a grade of Unsatisfactory in any course or fail to meet the minimal cumulative weighted academic requirements. A student will be removed from academic probation only after successfully remediating the course or achieving the minimal cumulative weighted academic requirements. Students who are directed to repeat a year of curriculum for academic reasons remain on academic probation until successful completion of all courses scheduled within that academic year.
Terms of Probation
1. When a student is placed on academic probation, it is noted in the student’s academic file and official transcript. Subsequently, when a student has successfully satisfied the requirements of probation, this is also noted in the student’s file and transcript.
2. When a student is placed on academic probation, following approval by the Dean of the College, he/she will be notified in writing by the Dean and the reason will be stated. When the terms of academic probation have been satisfied the Student Promotion Committee will notify the Dean that probation has been rescinded and a letter will be provided to the student.
3. A student on academic probation may not serve as an officer of any official University club or organization. A student on academic probation may not serve as a representative of the College in the operations of the Admissions Office or on University committees. A student on academic probation may not serve as a representative of the College at off-campus conferences or sponsored events.
Dismissal from the College
The College may require dismissal at any time it deems necessary to safeguard its standards of scholarship, conduct and orderly operation. It should be clearly understood that Touro University Nevada, after due consideration and process, reserves the right to require the dismissal of any student at any time before graduation if circumstances of a legal, moral, behavioral, ethical, health or academic nature justify such action. The academic reasons for dismissal include but are not limited to the following:
1. A student’s cumulative curriculum weighted average for any one academic year is less than 70%.
2. A student earns failing grades in 33% or more of the credit hours for any one academic year.
3. A student who earns a failing grade in a repeated course.
4. A student who fails a re-examination under a remediation plan.
5. A student who exceeds the time limit for completion of the prescribed curriculum as defined by the program.
6. A student who does not remedy a failed grade(s) within one calendar year of the issuance of the failed grade(s).
7. A student has not demonstrated continued academic and professional growth and achievement.
Decisions regarding dismissal are made on an individual basis after considering all pertinent circumstances and extenuating circumstances relating to the case. The Student Promotion Committee recommends dismissal to the Dean. The Dean issues a letter of decision to the student.
Academic Appeal Process
Following notification (traceable letter delivery) of a decision for dismissal, a student may wish to appeal the decision. He/she has seven (7) working days within which to submit a formal written appeal of the decision to the Dean. The appeal request must be submitted in writing and delivered to the Office of the Dean within this seven (7) day period. The request should be accompanied by a narrative explaining the basis for appeal. The narrative should fully explain his/her situation and substantiate the reason(s) for advocating a reversal of the decision.
The Dean may grant an appeal only on showing one of the following:
1. Bias of one or more of the members of the Student Promotion Committee.
2. New material, documentable information not available to the committee at the time of its initial decision.
3. Procedural error.
The Dean may choose any of the following options when an appeal to dismiss a student is under consideration:
1. Concur with recommendation of the Student Promotion Committee and the decision to dismiss.
2. Amend the recommendation of the Student Promotion Committee.
3. Convene an ad- hoc committee consisting of three members to review the recommendation of the Student Promotion Committee. The ad-hoc committee will present their finding to the Dean for consideration.
The decision of the Dean is final and he/she will be required to notify the student in writing of the decision. While the appeal is pending, the status of the student will not be altered.
Graduation Requirements – Touro University Nevada
A student will be recommended for the School of Education degrees or endorsements provided the candidate has earned satisfactory grades in all of the courses in the appropriate degree/endorsement plan as outline in the course catalog.
Student Academic Integrity and Ethics
Responsibility of the Student
To be honest, act fairly toward others, take group and individual responsibility for honorable behavior and know what constitutes academic dishonesty.
Code of Conduct/Professional Promise
Students are expected to emulate the legal, moral and ethical standards expected of professionals in their respective areas and display behavior which is consistent with these qualities. Professionalism and professional ethics are terms that signify certain scholastic, interpersonal and behavioral expectations. Among the characteristics included in this context are the knowledge, competence, demeanor, attitude, appearance, mannerisms, integrity, morals, etc. displayed by the students to teachers, peers, and colleagues in the other educational settings.
Student Academic Ethics: A Guide to Academic Honesty
What is Academic Dishonesty?
Academic dishonesty is intentional cheating, fabrication or plagiarism. It is also knowingly helping or attempting to help others to be dishonest. Academic dishonesty lowers scholastic quality and defrauds those who will eventually depend upon your knowledge and integrity.
Cheating
Definition:
Intentionally copying from another student’s work or accepting assistance from other students, using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, or study aids during any academic exercise unless permitted by the instructor.
Clarification:
1. Students completing any examination should assume that external aids (for example, books, notes, conversation with others) are prohibited unless specifically allowed by the instructor.
2. Students are responsible for maintaining an appropriate demeanor and a decorum during examinations (for example: no talking; no hats; eyes on your own paper; placing books, notes, study aids, coats and personal possessions well away from your seat).
3. Students may not have others conduct research or prepare work for them without advance authorization from the instructor. This includes, but is not limited to, the services of commercial companies.
4. Major portions of the same academic work may not be submitted more than once for credit or honors, without authorization.
A proctor who observes students cheating should record their names, inform them that disciplinary proceedings will be initiated and report them to the Dean of Students (see Appendix B). Students cannot be prevented from completing an examination simply based on the suspicion of cheating.
Fabrication
Definition:
Intentionally falsifying or inventing any information or citation in any academic exercise.
Clarification:
1. “Invented” information may not be used in any academic exercise. It would be improper, for example, to analyze one sample in an experiment and “invent” data based on that single experiment for several more required analyses.
2. One should acknowledge the actual source from which cited information was obtained. For example, a student should not take a quotation from a book review and then indicate that the quotation was obtained from the book itself.
3. Students may not change and resubmit previous academic work without prior permission from the instructor.
Plagiarism
Definition:
Intentionally or knowingly representing the words or ideas of another person as one’s own in any academic exercise.
Clarification:
1. Direct Quotation – Every direct quotation must be identified by quotation marks or appropriate indentation and must be cited in a footnote or endnote.
2. Paraphrase – Prompt acknowledgment is required when material from another source is paraphrased or summarized in whole or in part, in one’s own words. To acknowledge a paraphrase properly, one might state, “to paraphrase Locke’s comment…” Then conclude with a footnote or endnote identifying the exact reference.
3. Borrowed Facts – Information gained in reading or research which is not common knowledge among students in the course must be acknowledged. Examples of common knowledge include the names of leaders or prominent nations, basic scientific laws, etc. Materials which add only to the general understanding of the subject may be acknowledged in the bibliography and need not be footnoted or endnoted.
One footnote or endnote is usually enough to acknowledge indebtedness when a number of connected sentences are drawn from one source. When direct quotations are used, however, quotation marks must be inserted and acknowledgment made. Similarly, when a passage is paraphrased, acknowledgment is required. Please consult with the instructor for further information about plagiarism.
Facilitating Academic Dishonesty
Definition:
Intentionally or knowingly helping or attempting to help another commit an act of academic dishonesty.
Clarification:
A student must not knowingly allow another student to copy from his/her work during any academic exercise. This includes, among other things, examinations, videotapes, audiotapes, laboratory experiments and term papers.
Student Discipline Procedures
See Appendix B Bylaws and regulations of the code of responsibilities and rights of the students of Touro University Nevada.
SECTION VI UNIVERSITY COMPUTER SERVICES
The MIS Department is responsible for all computing services, on-campus telephone services, the University’s website, audio-visual and copy services. Students benefit, directly and indirectly, from the work of the MIS Department in a variety of ways.
Once arriving on campus, students are issued a network login which gives them access to the University’s computer network. There are three computer labs, offering students approximately 70 workstations on which they may use productivity software, browse the Internet, access course-specific files and use software that complements the curriculum. Each computer lab has printing, scanning and high capacity storage devices for student use. Each student also has a private file storage area on the University servers that he/she may access from any computer lab workstation. All students may access specifically tagged files from off-campus so that class presentations, group and individual projects in process and other data files may be retrieved from home.
The University’s website is another significant means of communication, both with the outside world and with the on-campus community. Student clubs and organizations are posted to the website, as well as weekly class schedules, assignments and other course-related information.
SECTION VII DISABILITY SERVICES
Touro University Nevada is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to students with documented disabilities. Policies and procedures must ensure that students with a disability will not, on the basis of that disability, be denied full and equal access to academic and co-curricular programs or activities or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under programs offered by the University.
Disabled students’ rights are protected under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). It is the policy of Touro University Nevada to insure that no qualified student with a disability is excluded from participation in or subjected to discrimination, in any University program, activity, or event.
If a student feels he/she has been discriminated against because of a disability by another student or by University personnel, he/she has the right to request an investigation into such a matter through the stated grievance policies and procedures stated in Appendix B of this Handbook.
Touro University Nevada has developed a set of technical standards that are required of all graduates. These standards are found in the Touro University Nevada catalogue.
Rights and Responsibilities of the University
Rights
• The right of the University to set and maintain standards for admitting and evaluating the progress of students.
• The right of the faculty to establish, maintain, and monitor standards of academic performance and to develop and assess content domains.
• The right to establish standards for admission of students into Touro University Nevada programs.
• The right to request current documentation from a student completed by an appropriate professional source to verify the need for reasonable accommodations, academic adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids.
• The right to consult with the student, discuss a student’s need for reasonable accommodations, academic adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids in consultation with students with disabilities.
• The right to deny a request for accommodations, academic adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids if the documentation fails to verify the need for the requested services, or if the documentation is not provided in a timely manner.
• The right to refuse to provide or modify an accommodation, adjustment, and/or auxiliary aid that is inappropriate or unreasonable including any that:
o pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others;
o constitutes a substantial change or alteration to an essential element of a course or program; or,
o poses undue financial or administrative burden on the University.
Responsibilities
• The responsibility to ensure that University courses, programs, services, job activities and facilities when viewed in their entirety, are offered in the most integrated and appropriate settings possible.
• The responsibility to provide information regarding policies and procedures to students with disabilities and assure its availability in accessible formats upon request.
• The responsibility to evaluate students on their abilities, not their disabilities.
• The responsibility to provide a student with reasonable and appropriate accommodations, academic adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids following a timely request.
• The responsibility to maintain appropriate confidentiality of records and communication concerning students with disabilities except where disclosure is required by law or authorized by the student.
Rights and Responsibilities of Students
Rights
• The right of the student with a disability to be included on the basis of criteria that does not unfairly discriminate because of the disability.
• The right to equal access to courses, programs, services, jobs, activities and facilities available through the University.
• The right of reasonable and appropriate accommodations, academic adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids determined on a case-by-case basis.
• The right of appropriate confidentiality of all information pertaining to his/her disability with the choice of whom to disclose their disability to except as required by law.
• The right of information reasonably available in accessible formats.
Responsibilities
• The responsibility to meet the University’s qualifications and technical, academic and institutional standards as any other student.
• The responsibility to identify themselves in a timely manner as an individual with a disability when seeking an accommodation.
• The responsibility to provide documentation from an appropriate professional source that verifies the nature of the disability, functional limitations and the need for specific accommodations.
• The responsibility to follow specific procedures for obtaining reasonable and appropriate accommodations, academic adjustments and/or auxiliary aids.
• The responsibility to advocate for their own individual needs and to seek information, counsel, and assistance as necessary, and within reason, to be effective self advocates.
Rights and Responsibilities of the Faculty
Rights
• The right to identify and establish the abilities, skills, and knowledge that are fundamental to academic programs/courses and to evaluate each student’s performance against these standards. Fundamental program and course standards are not subject to modifications, although a student with a disability is entitled to reasonable accommodations to assist him/her to meet the program/course standards.
Responsibilities
• The responsibility to make reasonable modifications for a student with a disability with respect to the adaptation of the manner in which specific courses are conducted.
• The responsibility to select and administer tests used to evaluate students so as to best ensure that test results accurately reflect aptitudes or competencies and do not discriminate against a student with a disability. Tests designed to measure specific skills related to fundamental standards are allowable even when those skills are impacted by the disability.
• The responsibility to evaluate students in a non-discriminatory manner.
Procedures
The following procedures and information serve as a guide for students seeking special accommodations for disabilities.
Procedures and Information Regarding Requests for Accommodations:
An application for accommodation of a disability must be made by the student. Verbal disclosure prior to or following admission is not sufficient. Students may apply for special accommodations anytime during their academic curriculum, however, if granted, the accommodation is given only for the academic year in which it is requested. In case of changed circumstances, with respect to any disability, subsequent applications must follow for each academic year the student is requesting accommodations (including request during internships of any other off-campus programs that are part of the students’ required college/program curriculum).
A student requesting an accommodation for a disability under the ADA must meet with the Dean of Students. An application for accommodation of a disability can be filled out in this office.
Although students can apply for accommodations at any time during their academic program, it is strongly advised that if you are seeking accommodations, you have the following paperwork and documentation on file in the Office of Student Affairs, prior to your request.
1. Students must fill out the Request for Accommodations of Disability Application (RADA_ prior to consideration of such requests. To expedite the process, students are encouraged to have this form prior to their meeting with the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research. The form is available in the Office of Student Affairs.
2. Documentation is required from a physician, clinical psychologist or other certified individual and a report must be on file in the Office of Student Affairs before any accommodation can be granted. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure that all required documentation is forwarded to the Office of Student Affairs. Documentation shall include:
a. A cover letter from the physician, clinical psychologist or other certified individual.
b. Appropriate and thorough diagnostic test results. Summarization of results, while helpful, by itself is not considered satisfactory. The report should also a) clearly diagnose the disability, b) report the severity of the disability, c) offer implications of the disability for the students’ program of study, and d) include a summary of what accommodations are needed to assist in overcoming the disability.
c. Test results must be within the last five years prior to the request.
Accommodations
The following is a list of accommodations that may be provided for, given the student has provided the appropriate documentation:
• Extra time on timed examinations and/or quizzes
• Extra time on in-class assignments
• Provisions to take examinations and/or quizzes in a quiet, separate room
• Tape recording of lectures
• Note taker services
• Front row access in classes with assigned seating
• Other accommodations will be considered as presented
Types of Documentation Students Should Provide
As a guide to both students and faculty, appropriate documentation needed to fulfill criteria to be considered learning disabled may include, but are not limited to, the following:
• The WAIS-R individualized measure of intelligence or comparable test, given in the last five years,
• The Woodcock-Johnson Psychoeducational Battery-Revised or other comprehensive, psychoeducational test that demonstrates that specific area of academics may be significantly below expectations,
• A standardized test or tests that indicate specific areas of the student’s elementary, secondary, or post-secondary education and placement in any special programs while in school,
• All other documentation that gives assistance or identifies behavioral or attention problems that may warrant special accommodations.
Process to Determine Reasonable Accommodation
It is the responsibility of the Dean of Students to review the documentation and assess whether the accommodation is reasonable. Decisions shall be rendered in ten (10) business days and be based on the following criteria:
• Has the student provided appropriate documentation that he/she has a disability?
• Was the request submitted according to the procedures stated above?
• Is the request reasonable within the student’s required program of study? A reasonable request should not fundamentally alter the student’s program of study.
• Does the request for accommodation interfere with a required component of the student’s academic program or lower essential academic standards?
• Without this accommodation, would the student still be able to effectively learn the required material?
Is is the responsibility of the Dean of Students to discuss with the student how he/she can communicate to faculty and facilitate initiation of requested accommodations. If the requested accommodation meets approved criteria, the Dean of Students will request the accommodation, in writing, to the Director in charge of the course or courses within which an accommodation is or accommodations are being requested. The Dean of Students will also notify the appropriate associate dean. It is the responsibility of the Director or Program Director to inform all appropriate instructors of the request for accommodation. The Dean of Students will send the letter of request for accommodation every academic semester within that academic year to the appropriate Director. Students are reminded, however, that they must reapply each academic year to be considered for accommodations.
Once a letter requesting accommodations has been sent from the Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research to the Director, it is the student’s responsibility to arrange the approved accommodations with course instructors. Students must do this prior to having the accommodation made available.
It is the student’s responsibility to approach the specific instructor of the class they wish to be accommodated and discuss what works best for him/her, within the parameters of the requested accommodation(s). Students, while having a specific disability and requesting accommodations for one course, may or may not want special accommodations for other courses within their program of study. The wording provided in the written letter from the Dean of Students to Directors will state, “If requested, the following accommodations are recommended…”
Students are encouraged to immediately bring problems to the attention of the Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research. It is the responsibility of the Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research to monitor all arrangements regarding disability accommodations. If a student feels he/she is being discriminated against because of a disability, he/she has the right to request an investigation into such a matter through the stated grievance policies and procedures in Appendix B of this Handbook.
Students who are in need of testing or the need to provide current documentation should meet with the Dean of Students. Information on testing and testing locations can be obtained through this office. Costs of testing and assessments are the responsibility of the student.
If students have gone through the proper procedures and the request is denied, they may request an appeal from the Committee on Disabilities which is an ad-hoc committee that will be established by the Office of Student Affairs. The request for appeal must be made in writing within 30 days of notice of receiving the initial decision “to deny”. The decision of the Committee shall be rendered in ten (10) business days and will be considered final.
Access to these records is restricted. If the accommodating department(s) or instructor(s) wish to view a copy of the student assessment, they may do so only with the express written consent of the student and must show reason why they wish to view the assessment. Copies of the detailed assessment are maintained in a confidential file in the Office of Student Affairs and may only be viewed by this office and individuals that the student has identified.
Students who wish to request accommodations for board examinations or other certifying examinations are urged to contact the governing body or institution responsible for the administration of such examinations. Requirements for requesting accommodations under the ADA for these examinations will be determined by the respective governing body or institution and may be different from requirements established by Touro University Nevada.
Glossary of Terms Related to Disabilities
Disability:
A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of such individual; a record of such an impairment; or being regarded as having such an impairment. (28 CRC Part 26 page 35698)
Major Life Activity:
Examples are caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working.
Impairment:
Any psysiological disorder or condition, cosmetic disfigurement, or anatomical loss affecting one or more of the following body systems: neurological; musculoskeletal; special sense organs (which would include speech organs that are not respiratory such as vocal cords, soft palate, tongue, etc.); respiratory, including speech organs; cardiovascular; reproductive; digestive; genitourinary; hematologic and lymphatic; dermatologic; and endocrine.
SECTION VIII INSTITUTIONAL POLICIES
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted inside any campus building or inside University vehicles. The University recognizes the health, safety and benefits of smoke-free air and the special responsibility that is has to maintain a healthy and safe environment for its faculty, students, employees and guests. Touro University Nevada is committed to the promotion of good health, wellness and the prevention of disease and to comply with Nevada state law regarding smoking indoors. Violators are subject to disciplinary action. In addition, smoking materials shall not be sold or in any way distributed under the auspices of Touro University Nevada. Smokers are required to dispose of all cigarette butts in a safe manner.
Drugs, Alcohol, Firearms and Hazing
Touro University Nevada does not condone any form of drug, substance or alcohol abuse by its students. No alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs may be manufactured, consumed or distributed by students in any academic facility associated with Touro University Nevada. Any violation of this policy will result in disciplinary and appropriate legal action against the offending individual(s) or organization(s). Any student who attends class or in on the premises of a facility affiliated with Touro University Nevada while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is subject to immediate suspension and probable expulsion. Only with the prior approval of the Dean of Students may alcoholic beverages be served at an on-campus student party (see “Student-Sponsored Events”).
No firearms, ammunition, explosive devices or other weapons may be carried, (concealed or otherwise), by a student on institutional property. Violators of this policy are considered to be a threat to the academic environment of the institution and are subject to immediate suspension or dismissal from the University.
No organization or individual(s) may engage in any form of hazing of any student enrolled in Touro University Nevada. Students engaged in such activities are subject to suspension or expulsion from the University.
Drug-Free Workplace and Substance Abuse Policy and Procedures
A Drug-Free Workplace and Substance Abuse Policy and Procedures have been established for Touro University Nevada in order to appropriately serve the needs of the faculty, staff and students. This policy has been established to implement a drug-free work place and academic environment consistent with federal and state law, including the terms and conditions whereby employees, students, volunteers, faculty and other professionals may be disciplined for violation of these policies and tested for suspected use of an illegal drug or alcohol.
The policies and procedures apply to all students of Touro University Nevada at all facilities operated by Touro University Nevada. The University reserves the right to have any student evaluated if he/she appears to be under the influence of illegal drugs/substance and/or alcohol which results in a diminished or impaired ability to perform usual tasks. Any student who attends class under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs/substances is subject to either immediate suspension or probably expulsion in accordance with this policy.
All students of Touro University Nevada must review the Drug Free Workplace and Substance Abuse Policy and Procedure, a copy of which has been provided at orientation and/or obtained at the Office of the Dean of Students. Touro University Nevada maintains a drug-free environment consistent with the principles of the “Federal Drug Free Schools and Communities Act” and the “Drug Free Workplace Act”.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is a form of unlawful discrimination under state and federal law. It may consist of: actual or threatened sexual contact which is not mutually agreeable to both parties, continued or repeated verbal abuse of a sexual nature, and/or a threat or insinuation that a lack of sexual submissiveness will adversely affect the victim’s employment, academic standing or other vital circumstances.
Examples of sexual harassment include but are not limited to: pressure (subtle or overt) for sexual favors accompanied by implied or overt threats concerning one’s job, grades or letters of recommendation; inappropriate display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures; unnecessary touching, pinching, patting or the constant brushing against another’s body and/or use of sexually abusive language (including remarks about a person’s clothing, body or bodily movement or sexual activities).
Any member of the University community may resist such harassment and/or report such harassment to the appropriate program director, Associate Dean or other member of the Touro University Nevada administration.
HIV/AIDS
Information about and copies of the institutional policy guidelines concerning HIV (Human Immune Deficiency Virus)/AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) are available upon request from the Office of Student Affairs.
Impairment of Life Safety Devices/Systems
Destruction of or tampering with campus life safety systems or devices are prohibited. Any student found responsible for such acts is subject to disciplinary action, fines and/or costs to repair damaged systems or devices.
Eating and Drinking in Classrooms/Laboratories
Care should be taken to remove all refuse to a trash container after eating.
Parking
Parking on campus is free in the non-reserved spots. Students, faculty and staff are required to obtain a parking decal from the Office of Student Affairs to park on campus. Do not park in reserved spots prior to 4 pm and do not park in spots specifically designated for campus administrators at any time.
Vehicle Towing
Vehicles parked illegally are subject to towing. The cost of towing and retrieval of the vehicle is the responsibility of the owner. Touro University Nevada assumes neither liability nor responsibility for operational or structural damage incurred as a result of towing or storage of a vehicle in such instances.
Lockers
Upon matriculation, students may be issued lockers for personal use while enrolled at the University. No fee is charged for use of the lockers. Students must provide their own locks. Contact the Office of Student Affairs for locker assignment.
Lost and Found
The Department of Human Resources maintains a Lost and Found Service for the University. Lost articles may be claimed from Human Resources during regular business hours. Students are urged to label all books and other personal belongings so that they can be easily identified if turned into the Lost and Found.
APPENDIX A: CODE OF RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS OF THE STUDENTS OF TOURO UNIVERSITY NEVADA (TUN)
The primary purpose of Touro University Nevada is the education of osteopathic physician, pharmacists, allied health professionals, and teachers. The university is a community of faculty, administration and students. Each group exercises its own rights and responsibilities in furthering the educational process of the University.
The following code enumerates the rights and responsibilities of the student segment of Touro University Nevada. It is written in the belief that student knowledge of the student role in this educational process will promote more effective student achievement.
This code and the accompanying bylaws are thus set forth to describe the general policies relating to student life and organizations at Touro University Nevada. These general policies are subject to the bylaws and faculty policies of Touro University Nevada.
Title
This code is entitled The Code of Responsibilities and Rights of the Students of Touro University Nevada. It is approved and authorized by the Board of Trustees of Touro University Nevada.
Definition and Basic Concepts
The Code of Responsibilities and Rights of the Students of Touro University Nevada is a part of each student’s educational commitment. The following definitions of terms are made for clarification.
The “university” refers to Touro University Nevada. The term includes the physical plant, the total educational program, students, faculty, employees, officers and trustees.
A “student” is anyone who has matriculated at the university and has commenced classes. The term does not include an individual who has applied for admission to but has not been in attendance at the university, nor does it include alumni.
The “faculty” constitutes those individuals appointed to the faculty by the President of the University.
A “student organization” is any group of students given recognition by the Student Government Association (SGA) administration.
The “SGA” is the university student government structure. The leadership of the SGA is elected by the entire student body. The SGA is composed of all the class officers and student organization officers. All students are invited to participate in SGA meetings.
“Student affairs” includes areas of student interest and involvement through which their academic, social and professional goals can be achieved.
“University affairs” are the academic, business, administrative, professional and public relations activities of the University.
“Academic freedom” is the right of faculty and students to study, discuss, investigate and function within the educational process.
“Requirements of the University” are those prerequisites for receipt of the degrees granted by the University, which are delineated in the college catalog and in official pronouncements of the Board of Trustees, faculty and administration. Such requirements may change from time to time as need arises to insure acceptability and respectability of the various degrees offered by the university.
Student Responsibilities
To achieve and maintain a high standard of academic, professional and social conduct considering individual aptitude and abilities.
To recognize the value and necessity for active and life-long learning as a vital adjunct to the university’s formal educational program and to work diligently to learn from their own strengths and weaknesses so as to become competent professionals who can live up to the standards set by their chosen professional fields.
To be familiar with this code and the bylaws regulated.
To meet the requirements of the Code of Responsibilities and Rights of the Students of Touro University Nevada’s degree programs.
To work toward better relations with the general public on behalf of all programs of Touro University Nevada and their respective profession.
To help promote excellence in education, patient oriented health care, and community services as provided by the university.
To exhibit personally the highest ethical and professional performance and to work with others to promote similar performance among fellow students and alumni.
To serve on any university committees to which appointed with the understanding that such appointment requires accurate representation of the opinions of the entire student body of the committee.
To maintain good academic standing (i.e., not on academic probation) to be eligible to hold elected positions in their classes, colleges or organizations, to maintain university committee appointments, or travel on behalf of student organizations representing the University.
Student Rights
Every student shall have the following rights:
To pursue to completion the students’ chosen degree program, contingent upon satisfactory completion of requirements of the college. Commensurate with the students’ pursuit of their degree program shall be the following rights:
To be informed of academic progress.
To be notified of individual departmental course requirements as well as requirements for the chosen degree program. Each student is entitled to a statement of goals and objectives, evaluation techniques and schedules for each course.
To be informed by the university of any and all its regulations and policies affecting student status. Any change in existing policy or institution of new policy shall be implemented when practical only after publication. Such publication shall be so calculated to give students time to react and comply.
To examine, see corrections of, or prevent disclosure of personally identifiable information from more fully set forth in the Guidelines for Access to and Disclosure of Educational Records Maintained by Touro University Nevada, adopted by the university pursuant to the Family Education Right to Privacy Act of 1974.
To exercise academic freedom as defined above.
To receive a copy of this code and to be notified in writing by the “SGA” and the University about regulations promulgated or amended under this code.
To seek membership in any recognized student organization for which applicant meets membership criteria.
To petition the SGA for recognition of any student group which (1) furthers the goals of the institution, and (2) meets the requirements for recognition as a student organization established by the SGA and administration. Recognized organizations shall have the right to meet in university facilities subject to university space coordination and scheduling. Requests for utilization of university space must be reasonable and cannot interfere with the primary educational goals of the university.
To be represented in the determination of university of college policy as it directly affects a student’s educational endeavor. There shall be student representation to the extent of at least one voting member on the following college standing committees: Admissions Committee, Curriculum Committee, Financial Aid Committee, Library Committee, Food Services Committee and Student Life Committee and the various class Liaison Committees. Students may serve on ad hoc and other college or program committees, such as the Self-Study Committee, or such committees as may be deemed appropriate. Student appointment to the standing committees shall be made by the SGA.
Appointment of students as student representatives to any committee or group other than the above named standing committees shall be made by the SGA. Students on standing committees shall be appointed for the same term as faculty members. Substitutes for student committee members may not be sent without prior approval of the committee chairman involved. At any time that a committee deems appropriate, it may seek additional students to serve as resources.
To initiate a grievance procedure as per the Bylaws of the Code of Responsibilities and Rights of the Students (Appendix B.)
To have due process when charged with any academic, social, personal or professional misconduct.
To elect representatives to the “SGA” and to elect officers of their respective class and student organizations.
Sanctions
A student who is found to have engaged in improper conduct as defined in the Code of Student Responsibilities and Rights of Students and accompanying Bylaws and Regulations shall be subject to disciplinary action by the university. University actions may include but are not limited to: reprimand, monetary fines, probation, suspension or dismissal.
Amendment of This Code
Amendment of this code may be made by recommendation of the Touro University Nevada CEO to the University President and Board of Trustees.
APPENDIX B: TOURO UNIVERSITY NEVADA BYLAWS AND REGULATIONS OF THE CODE OF RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS OF THE STUDENTS OF TOURO UNIVERSITY – NEVADA
The following bylaws and regulations are promulgated to augment and support the Code of Responsibilities and Rights of the Students of Touro University Nevada.
Student Concerns and Grievances
It is recognized that from time to time students will encounter situations or develop concerns while pursuing professional degree programs. These may affect relationships with fellow students, faculty, staff and/or administration. Any issue concerning student conduct will be resolved by one of two methods:
(1) an informal method utilizing the Office of Student Affairs or (2) a formal method of resolution. The informal method of resolution will be initially used for all cases unless the Dean of Students believes that the incident is severe enough initially to warrant a formal hearing.
Conduct Violations
The following acts are considered to be a violation of acceptable student conduct. (Please refer to the section on Student Academic Ethics for additional conduct violations):
• Cheating: Unauthorized use of text, notes or other aids during an exam, copying the work of another student, or obtaining and using a copy of an examination in advance of its administration.
• Plagiarism: Presenting as one’s own the work of another without proper acknowledgment; deceitful practice – utilizing a substitute or acting as a substitute in any academic evaluation, or knowingly permitting one’s work to be submitted by another person without the instructor’s authorization.
• Unauthorized collaboration: Working together on an exam, project, or report when expressly prohibited from doing so by an instructor.
• Knowingly furnishing false information to the University.
• Forgery, alteration or misuse of university documents, records, identification, etc.
• Malicious obstruction or disruption of teaching, research or administrative operational procedures.
• Physical abuse of any person on university property or conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person.
• Theft of, or damage to, property of a member of the university on campus, or theft of, or damage to, property of Touro University Nevada.
• Drug abuse – being under the influence of substances of abuse, including alcohol, during class, internship, or any other situation under the jurisdiction of the University in which professional conduct is expected or required.
• Possession or use of firearms, ammunition or explosive devices or materials on campus.
• Violations of any campus rules or regulations.
• Violation of the confidentiality of any medical, personal, financial or business information obtained through the student’s educational activities in any academic or professional setting.
• Behavior inconsistent with the qualities and ethics described for professionals within the chosen fields.
• Engaging in the synthesis, manufacture, theft, sale or use of a controlled substance for unlawful purposes, or assisting any individual or group in accomplishing this end.
Informal Method of Resolution
The informal method for the resolution of student conduct issues is the responsibility of the Dean of Students. The Dean of Students will hear all violations of the Code of Responsibilities and Rights of Students as it relates to the informal method of resolution. The Dean of Students reserves the discretion to refer any violation to the Code to the Formal Method of Resolution.
1. Upon written notification that a violation of the Student Code of Rights and Responsibilities has taken place the Dean of Students will contact the student involved to request an appointment to discuss the alleged violation.
2. After investigating the incident and meeting with the student, the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research will render a decision within five (5) school days, in writing, of the disposition of the violation and, if applicable, inform the student of the disciplinary action.
3. Should a student accept the decision of the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research the disciplinary action will be effective immediately.
4. If the student does not accept the decision of the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research a formal hearing procedure will be implemented.
Formal Method of Resolution
Touro University Nevada, in an effort to differentiate between student discipline and evaluation of student academic and professional competency, has developed the following Formal Method of Resolution to deal with disciplinary infractions of the Code of Responsibilities and Rights of the Students.
This formal method of resolution is designed so that a student may have the opportunity to be fairly and justly treated when his/her personal conduct is in question. This section does not apply to matters of academic performance, which are dealt with by the appropriate Student Promotion Committee.
Procedures for Formal Resolution – Conduct Infractions
To institute proceedings to examine any student act allegedly violating acceptable student conduct, the following procedures shall be followed:
1. Nature of the act and related circumstances are to be reported in written detail and submitted to:
a. the involved student, and
b. The Dean of Students
2. The written statement must include the name of the involved student, the name and status of the reporting person, and the nature of the alleged act. The written statement must be sent to the involved student by registered or certified mail or delivered in person. Should a student so involved refuse or fail to accept delivery of the statement after a bona fide attempt is made to deliver, the requirement of notification will be considered to have been met.
3. Should a student action be of such a nature that it is felt that he/she must be relieved of his/her right to attend Touro University Nevada, the student may be temporarily suspended from the college on recommendation of the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research. Any temporary suspension may continue until such a time as:
a. the issue in dispute is resolved, or
b. the formal hearing process is completed.
4. The student, after being notified of an allegation, will meet with the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research.
5. The Dean of Students shall arrange a hearing which is to take place no earlier than three calendar days and no later than ten calendar days after the decision to proceed with the formal method has been reached.
6. The hearing shall take place before a hearing committee composed of
a. two regular faculty or administrative members and one alternate regular faculty or administrative member appointed by the applicable college Dean and
b. two student committee members and one alternate student committee member appointed by the SGA President. The hearing body shall be chaired by an independent, nonvoting student moderator appointed by the applicable SGA President. Committee members are to serve for the term of one academic year. Prior involvement in some aspects of the issue under study by a hearing committee member shall not bar a committee member from serving on the committee. However, a committee member will be disqualified if he/she has participated in filing the charge under review.
7. All persons involved in a hearing shall be given adequate written notice of all hearing dates, times and places. Such notice will be given at least 36 hours prior to any hearing unless waived by the parties involved.
8. Postponements of committee meetings may be made by the interested parties. The student may be granted a postponement if information or pertinent interested parties cannot for good cause be present at the time set. Any postponement may not extend beyond a three-month period except in the case of a student who has been temporarily suspended, where a postponement will be limited to a 48-hour period. Should an extension beyond the 48-hour period be needed, the suspension itself shall be reevaluated.
9. The student charged and the person making the charges will be accorded the following rights:
a. To review all information to be presented to the hearing committee. The length of time for review shall be reasonable as determined by the hearing committee moderator.
b. To challenge the seating of one hearing committee member. Any challenge must be made at least 36 hours in advance. The challenged member may rebut the challenge and ask for a decision as to his service from the other members of the committee.
c. To present fully all aspects of the issue before the hearing committee.
d. To be accompanied by an advocate. Legal counsel will not be allowed.
10. Committee hearings will proceed under the following guidelines:
a. All committee hearings and meetings are to be closed sessions unless all parties mutually agree in writing to open sessions.
b. A recording secretary is to be appointed by the committee moderator. Verbatim transcripts of the proceedings may be made at the request and expense of any party.
c. All issues in dispute shall be orally presented by the committee moderator.
d. The complainant will first present all information supporting the charges made against the student.
e. Following this presentation, the student who is under investigation will present his/her side of the issue, submitting for committee study, all information which he/she chooses to submit.
f. At the completion of all discussion, the complainant and the student may each make a summary statement.
g. At any time during the hearing, the complainant, the student, the committee and/or college representatives may raise questions about the information under review so that all aspects of the case are clarified.
h. Silence by the charged student shall not be interpreted as an admission of guilt.
11. The committee shall reach a decision using the following guidelines:
a. The hearing committee will meet in closed session to reach a decision. Such meeting must be held within one school day following the formal hearing.
b. If the hearing committee seeks additional information following commencement of its deliberations, it will notify the parties within two school days and reconvene the hearing within five school days of the conclusion of the original hearing. The hearing committee’s final decision must be made within seven school days of the conclusion of the original hearing.
c. A decision to find the student guilty of the accusations will need at least three affirmative votes. The moderator may not vote in case of a tie.
d. The committee decision will be presented in writing to the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research who then will inform the applicable Dean. The committee decision must be based solely on the evidence presented at the hearing and must include all recommendations for final disposition of the issues involved. Any penalties must conform to Section on Sanctions of the Code of Responsibilities and Rights of the Students of Touro University Nevada.
e. The applicable Dean, after reviewing the decision of the hearing committee, has the authority to affirm, negate, and/or modify the decision. The applicable Dean shall then notify the student who allegedly violated acceptable student conduct of the committee decision and the Dean’s decision and shall inform the student of his/her right to appeal the decision.
f. The university will institute the recommended disciplinary action of the applicable Dean unless some pertinent factor such as legal ramification precludes such action or the student involved appeals the decision.
12. An appeal may be instituted by the following methods:
a. The student may request an appeal to the President within five school days of notification of the committee’s decision.
b. At the time of request for appeal, the student must submit in writing to the President the basis for the appeal. All facts necessary to substantiate the appeal must be included within the request for appeal.
13. The President will act upon the appeal by:
a. Confirming the Dean’s decision
b. Modifying the decision
c. Ordering a new hearing
14. The decision of the President is final.
15. Records of the above proceedings shall be kept in accordance with the following guidelines:
a. If the committee finds no merit in the allegation under discussion, all records of the proceedings shall be sealed and secured in the office of the Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Planning until such time as any legal statute of limitations has expired. Upon such event, all records of the proceedings shall be destroyed. Should a need arise to open the sealed records the University President shall be notified. At the applicable college Dean’s, CEO’s, or President’s discretion, an order to open the record shall be issued by him/her. These records will not go into a student’s personal disciplinary file.
b. If the committee finds merit in the allegations against a student, a full record of the proceedings and all relevant materials shall be entered exclusively in the student’s personal disciplinary file located in the office of the Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Planning.
c. A student’s personal disciplinary file shall be reviewed annually to determine whether it may be destroyed. No destruction of documents is to take place prior to graduation. The records may be maintained for professional certification or legally related reasons.
A student may see his/her disciplinary file in accordance with the college regulations concerning inspection of records as spelled out in Guidelines for Access to and Disclosure of Educational Records Maintained by Touro University Nevada.
APPENDIX C: GUIDELINES FOR ACCESS TO AND DISCLOSURE OF EDUCATIONAL RECORDS MAINTAINED BY TOURO UNIVERSITY NEVADA
In accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, the following represent guidelines for access to and disclosure of educational records maintained for students who are or have been in attendance at Touro University Nevada.
I. Definitions
As used herein:
1. “University” means Touro University Nevada
2. “Directory Information” includes the following information relating to a student: The student’s name, address (permanent and present), telephone number, date and place of birth, undergraduate institution attended and degree, registration number, class level, marital status, home state, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, the most recent previous educational institution attended and other similar information.
3. “Disclosure” means permitting access to or the release, transfer or other communication of education records of the student or the personally identifiable information contained therein, orally or in writing or by electronic means, or by any other means to any party.
4. “Education Records” means those records which are directly related to a student and are maintained by the university, or by a party acting for the university, as a part of its official records of a student’s university work. The term does not include:
a. Records of instructional, supervisory and administrative personnel and educational personnel ancillary thereto, which are in the sole possession of the maker thereof and are not accessible or revealed to any other individual except a substitute (for the purpose of this definition, a “substitute” means an individual who performs on a temporary basis the duties of the individual who makes the record, and does not refer to an individual who permanently succeeds the maker of the record in his or her position);
b. Records of a law enforcement unit of the university which are maintained apart from educational records solely for law enforcement purposes and are not disclosed to individuals other than law enforcement officials of the same jurisdiction;
c. Records relating to an individual who is employed by the university which are made and maintained in the normal course of business, relate exclusively to the individual in that individual’s capacity as an employee, and are not for use for any purpose (this sub- paragraph does not apply to records relating to any individual in attendance at the university who is employed as a result of his or her status as a student);
d. Personal health records of a student, which are created or maintained by a professional acting in his or her professional capacity, used only in connection with the provision of treatment to a student, and not disclosed to anyone other than individuals providing the treatment (provided that the records can be personally reviewed by a physician or other
appropriate professional of the student’s choice); and
e. Alumni records compiled after graduation.
5. “Personally Identifiable” means that the data or information includes:
a. the name of the student, the student’s parent or other family member;
b. The address of the student;
c. A personal identifier, such as the student’s social security number or student number;
d. A list of personal characteristics which would make the student’s identity easily traceable; or
e. Other information which would make the student’s identity easily traceable.
6. “Record” means any information or data recorded in any medium including, but not limited to: handwriting, print, tapes, film, microfilm, and microfiche.
7. “Student” means any person who has matriculated at the university and commenced classes, for whom the university maintains education records. The term does not include an individual who has applied for admission to but had not been in attendance at the university, nor does it include alumni status. “Student” status terminates at the time a student ceases to attend classes and leaves the institution.
II. Inspection and Review of Education Records
1. Education records maintained: The University shall maintain the following types of education records:
a. Personal data which identifies each student enrolled in the university, including full legal name, address, race, sex, date and place of birth, marriage status, name of spouse, name of parent or guardian.
b. Description of student academic status including grade level completed, grades, standardized test scores and evaluations of work competency and achievement.
c. Scores on standardized intelligence and aptitude tests.
d. Scores on standardized professional examination boards.
e. Records of extracurricular activities.
f. Health data relevant to educational assignments.
g. Systematically gathered academic evaluations.
h. Reports of disciplinary and criminal proceedings provided the reports contain only factual information and not subjective information.
2. Retention and security of records.
a. The university Registrar shall maintain all education records as well as any and all records maintained by the central university administration, with the exception of the disciplinary and criminal records which shall be kept separately by the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research.
b. Security of all records shall be the responsibility of the Registrar, excepting those above- mentioned files which are the responsibility of the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research.
c. With the exception of records of disciplinary and criminal proceedings, the above- enumerated records of subsection 2.a. shall be kept for at least 6 years after the student leaves the school. Records of disciplinary and criminal proceedings shall be reviewed upon graduation to determine whether the record shall be maintained for professional certification or legally related reasons. If there is not sound legal or professional reason for such maintenance the records shall be destroyed upon order of the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs and Institutional Research.
d. The Registrar shall at any time deemed appropriate, review any and all records for which he/she shall have responsibility. Such review shall be done to eliminate those records which no longer have meaning in determining the educational accomplishments of the student or which are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student.
3. Right to inspect and review education records.
a. The university shall permit a student who is or has been in attendance at the institution to inspect and review the education records of that student. This right to inspect and review includes the right to a response from the university to reasonable requests for explanations and interpretations of the records, and the right to obtain copies would effectively prevent a student from exercising the right to inspect and review.
b. Students shall not be permitted to inspect and review the following records:
i. Financial records and statements of their parents or any information contained therein.
ii. Confidential letters and confidential statements of recommendation which were placed in the education records of a student prior to January 1, 1975, provided that: (1) the letters and statements were solicited with a written assurance of confidentiality or sent and retained with a documented understanding of confidentiality, and (2) the letters and statements are used only for the purposes for which they were specifically intended.
iii. Confidential letters and confidential statements of recommendation placed in the education records of a student after January 1, 1975, with respect to university admission, an application for employment, or the receipt of an honor honorary recognition, provided that the student has waived in writing his or her right to inspect and review those letters and statements of recommendation. In the event of such a waiver: (1) the applicant or student shall be, upon request, notified of the names of all individuals providing the letters or statements; (2) the letter or statement shall be used only for the purpose for which originally intended; and (3) such waiver shall not be required by the university as a condition of admission to or receipt of any other service or benefit. Such a waiver may be revoked at any time with respect to any actions occurring after the revocation.
c. The procedure for inspection and review of records shall be as follows:
i. A student desiring to inspect and review his/her records shall submit a written request directly to the person in charge of the desired records.
ii. Such request must specify the records requested.
iii. A request to inspect the desired records will be granted within a reasonable period of time, not exceeding 45 days after the request has been made.
iv. The student will be notified by mail as to when and where he/she may inspect the requested records.
v. Inspection of records will be made in front of the responsible administrator or designee.
vi. A notation will be placed in the file each time it is inspected, stating the date of inspection, person inspecting, and reason for the inspection. In the case of transcript transmittal, a student must submit such requests in writing and a notation shall be made on the file as to date and place sent.
d. A student may request copies of his/her education records from the official in charge of keeping those records in accordance with the following:
i. A transcript of the student’s academic record will be made at a charge of $5.00 per copy to students; $10.00 per copy to alumni. All other records shall be reproduced at a charge of 50 cents per page.
ii. Requests for reproduction of a transcript may be made in writing to the University Registrar on the appropriate form to be obtained from the Office of the Registrar.
iii. Requests for reproduction of other records must be made in writing to the appropriate official holding the desired records.
iv. All reproduction requests must be accompanied by the payment of record reproduction charges.
v. Reproduction shall be done as soon as feasible, but not to exceed 45 days after receipt of the request.
III. Amendment of Education Records
1. Request of education records
a. A student who believes that information contained in his/her education records is inaccurate or misleading, or violates privacy or other rights, may request that the records be amended.
b. Such a request shall be made in writing and submitted to the custodian of the disputed record, who shall decide whether to amend the record in accordance with the request within a reasonable period of time (not exceeding 45 days) of receipt of the request.
c. If the custodian of the disputed record, after consultation with the Dean of the individual college, refuses to amend the record in accordance with the student’s request, he/she shall immediately notify the student in writing of such refusal and advise the student of the right to a hearing under subsection III.2 below.
2. Right to and conduct of hearing
a. If the request by a student to amend education records is denied, he/she may, in writing submitted to the custodian of the record within 45 days after the denial, request a hearing in order to challenge the content of the records to insure that information therein is not inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student.
b. The hearing shall be conducted before a review board composed of one member of the faculty who has no direct interest in the outcome of the hearing, one administrator of the university (appointed by the CEO of the University) who has no direct interest in the outcome of the hearing and, at the option of the student requesting the hearing, one student representative of the SGA.
c. The hearing shall be held within a reasonable period of time (not exceeding 45 days) after the receipt of the request by the custodian of the record. The student shall be given notice of the date, place and time of the hearing at least 21 days prior thereto.
d. The student shall have a full and fair opportunity to present all evidence relevant to the issues, and may be assisted or represented at the hearing by an individual of his/her choice at his/her own expense, including an attorney.
e. The decision of the review board shall be based solely upon evidence presented at the hearing and shall include a summary of the evidence and reasons for the decision. The review board shall render its decision in writing within a reasonable period of time (not exceeding 60 days) after the conclusion of the hearing.
3. Results of hearing.
If, as a result of the hearing, the university decides that the information is not inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student, it shall inform the student of the right to place in his/her education records a statement commenting upon the information in the education records and/or setting forth any reasons for disagreeing with the decision of the university. Any explanation placed in the education records of the student hereunder shall be maintained by the university as part of the education records of the student so long as the record or contested portion thereof is maintained, and shall be disclosed to any party subsequently receiving the education records of the student or contested portion thereof.
IV. Disclosure of Personally Identifiable Information from Education Records
1. Prior consent for disclosure required
a. Except as provided in subsection IV.2 below and except with respect to directory information, the university shall obtain the written consent of a student before disclosing personally identifiable information from the education records of the student.
b. The written consent thus required shall be signed and dated by the student and shall include: a specification of the records to be disclosed; the purpose(s) of the disclosure; and the party or class of parties to whom the disclosure may be made.
c. Whenever a disclosure is made pursuant to the written request of a student, the university shall, upon request, provide a copy of the disclosed record.
2. Prior consent for disclosure not required. The university may, but need not, disclose personally identifiable information without the written consent of a student if the disclosure is:
a. To the student himself/herself, or to anyone who has the written permission of the student.
b. To university officials, including the heads of administrative departments as well as faculty members having classroom or advisory responsibility to the student, provided that such officials have legitimate educational interests in the information. For purposes hereof, “legitimate educational interest” shall mean any interest of those officials directly related to the performance of their duties, but shall not include any interest having as its principal source the personal prejudice of any such official.
c. To authorized representatives of: the Comptroller General of the United States; the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare; the U.S. Commissioner of Education; the Director of the National Institute of Education, or the Assistant Secretary for Education; State educational authorities. It is provided than any such disclosures shall be only for use in connection with the audit and evaluation of federally supported education programs, or in legal requirements relating to such programs. When the collection of personally identifiable information is specifically authorized by federal law, any data collected by officials hereunder shall be protected in a manner which will not permit the personal identification of the student by other than those officials, and the personally identifiable data shall be destroyed when no longer needed for such audit, evaluation or enforcement of or compliance with federal legal requirements.
d. In connection with financial aid for which a student has applied or which student has received, provided that personally identifiable information from the education records of a student will be disclosed only as may be necessary to: determine eligibility for financial aid; determine the amount of financial aid; determine the conditions which will be imposed regarding the financial aid; or to enforce the terms or conditions of the financial aid.
e. To state and local officials or authorities to whom information is specifically required to be reported or disclosed pursuant to state statute adopted prior to November 19, 1974.
f. To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, educational agencies or institutions for the purpose of developing, validating, or administering predictive tests, administering student aid programs and improving instruction. It is provided that the studies are conducted in a manner which will not permit the personal identification of students by individuals other than representatives of the organization and the information will be destroyed when no longer needed for the purposes for which the study was conducted.
g. To accrediting organizations in order to carry out their accrediting functions.
h. To parents of a dependent student, as defined in section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954.
i. To comply with a judicial order or a lawfully issued subpoena, in which event the student will be notified in advance of compliance, if feasible, of the order or subpoena, the compliance date and of the university’s intention to comply.
j. To appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency, when the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals, based upon the following factors: the seriousness of the threat to the health or safety of the student or other individuals; the need for the information to meet the emergency; whether the parties to whom the information is disclosed are in a position to deal with the emergency; and the extent to which time is of the essence in dealing with the emergency.
3. Record of disclosures
a. The university shall maintain a record, kept with the education records of its students, of each request for and disclosure of personally identifiable information from the education records of its students. Such record shall indicate the parties who have requested or obtained personally identifiable information, and the legitimate interests these parties had in requesting or obtaining the information.
b. Subparagraph IV.3 above shall not apply to: disclosures to a student; disclosures pursuant to a written consent of a student when the consent is specific with respect to the party or parties to whom the disclosure is to be made; disclosures to university officials under subsection IV.2.b above; or disclosures of directory information under subsection IV.5 below.
c. The record of disclosures may be inspected by: the student; the university official responsible for custody of the records; and the parties authorized in, and under conditions set forth in subsection IV.2 above, for the purpose of auditing the record-keeping procedures of the university.
4. Limitation on re-disclosure
a. University will disclose personally identifiable information from the education records of a student only on condition that the party to whom the information is disclosed will not disclose the information to any party without the prior written consent of the student, except that such information disclosed to an institution, agency or organization may be used by its officers, employees and agents for the purposes of which the disclosure was made.
b. Notwithstanding subparagraph IV.4 above, the university may disclose personally identifiable information under subsection IV.2 above with the understanding that the information will or may be re-disclosed to other parties under that section, provided that the record keeping requirements of subsection IV.3 above are met with respect to each of those parties.
c. Except for the disclosure of directory information under subsection IV.5 below, the university will inform the party to whom a disclosure is made of the requirement of subparagraph IV.4.a. above.
5. Disclosure of directory information
a. The university may disclose personally identifiable information from the education records of a student who is in attendance at the institution if that information consists of “Directory Information” as defined subsection I.2 above. It is provided, however, that any student may refuse to permit the designation of any such information with respect to him/her as directory information by serving written notice to that effect on the university’s Registrar within 30 days after the commencement of any academic year.
b. The university may disclose directory information from the education records of an individual who is no longer in attendance at the university without following any procedures under subparagraph IV.5.a. above.
V. Annual Notification of Rights
1. Notice requirement. The university shall give students in attendance at the institution annual notice of the following:
a. Their rights under the Federal Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), regulations promulgated there under, and the policies of the university adopted herein;
b. The location where copies of these Guidelines may be obtained; and
c. The right to file complaints concerning alleged failures by the university to comply with the requirements of FERPA and regulations promulgated there under, with The Family Educational Rights and privacy Act Office (FERPA), Department of Health, Education and Welfare, 330 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20201.
2. Form of notice. The notice required under subparagraph V.1 above shall be given annually and shall be published in the student handbook or school catalog, or posted on bulletin boards at the university, or any other means reasonably likely to inform students of the aforesaid rights.
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