This catalog contains official academic and administrative regulations. General policies that apply to all programs are in this section of the catalog; specific policies for each program are in the respective sections of this catalog. Academic policies and scholastic regulations also are presented in other official University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth (HSC/HSC at Fort Worth) documents and specific program publications. Each student enrolled at HSC is responsible for knowing current academic policies and scholastic regulations, general and specific requirements, and operational policies that apply to registration and instruction. For the complete policy, please refer to the policies website at https://www.unthsc.edu/administrative/institutional-compliance-office/unt-health-science-center-policies/ .
HSC reserves the right to amend or add to the academic policies and scholastic regulations at any time, provided that such changes or additions are intended to improve the quality of education and are introduced in a fair and deliberate manner with appropriate notice provided to all students affected by the changes.
ID Cards
Identification cards are issued after new student orientation. These must be worn at all times while the student is on campus and, if applicable, on preceptorships, internships, and clinical rotations or any other practical experience performed as a member of the HSC community. The ID card is void upon termination or interruption of enrollment and when not properly encoded. Fraudulent use of an ID card subjects the user to a fine of $2,000 and up to one year in jail (Class A Misdemeanor). Anyone who uses the ID card to give false information to a police officer is subject to a fine of $2,000 (Class C Misdemeanor). Replacement ID cards may be purchased. Please contact the Police Department for more information. A lost or stolen card should be reported to Police immediately. To report a lost or stolen ID card, call the Police Department at 817-735-2210.
Course and Instructor Evaluations
HSC faculty and administrators rely on student input to maintain and enhance the quality of the curricula in each of the schools on campus. Students are responsible for providing constructive evaluations of each course in which they are enrolled, as well as the course instructor(s).
At the end of a course, students will be asked to complete a course evaluation. When a course has multiple instructors, students are encouraged to evaluate only instructors whose presentations they clearly remember. Numerical summaries of end-of-course evaluations (summative evaluations) including student comments are made available to faculty and administrators within one week after the end of the evaluation period.
Evaluations for all clinical rotations and practical experiences must be completed within 30 calendar days following the end of the experience.
Immunizations and Health Screenings
HSC at Fort Worth requires all students to comply with immunization and health screening requirements in order to protect the campus community, including patients whom students have direct contact, from illness and disease.
HSC will establish immunization requirements for each academic program based on requirements of the Texas Department of Health Services and recommendations of the Center for Disease Control. A student’s failure to comply will result in an academic hold on the student’s account.
Students will be given written notice of all vaccination and health screening requirements prior to initial enrollment. The notice will reference the opportunity for students to claim an exemption from vaccination requirements and the importance of consulting a physician about the need for immunization to prevent disease.
Bacterial Meningitis - Prior to enrollment, all entering students must provide either a certificate signed by a health practitioner or an official immunization record to Student Health Services evidencing the student’s bacterial meningitis vaccination dose or booster in accordance with regulations of the Texas Department of Health Services. Documentation must confirm the date of the vaccination no later than 10 days before the first day of the semester or term in which the student initially enrolls, unless the student is granted an extension as provided for in regulations of the Texas Department of Health Services. See the Immunizations and Health Screenings policy at https://www.unthsc.edu/administrative/institutional-compliance-office/unt-health-science-center-policies/ for exclusions.
Vaccinations required by the Texas Department of Health Services - A student enrolled in courses which will involve direct patient contact, with potential exposure to blood or bodily fluids, must provide evidence of compliance with all immunizations required by the Texas Department of Health Services to the Office of Student Health Services prior to engaging in any activities involving direct patient contact as described above. A student may be provisionally enrolled in a course if the student has received at least one dose of each vaccine specified by the Texas Department of Health Services prior to enrollment and goes on to complete each vaccination series on schedule. Provisionally enrolled students may not participate in coursework or activities involving direct patient contact, as described, until the full vaccination series is completed.
TB - A student must submit to annual TB testing screening upon enrollment according to program specific requirements.
Exclusions - Students may request an exclusion from immunization in the manner described below. Students who are excluded from immunization requirements upon request based on medical contraindications or reasons of conscience will be prohibited from engaging in direct patient contact, with potential exposure to blood or bodily fluids, in order to protect the patients from illness or disease. An excluded student will also not be eligible to participate in any volunteer or paid experience as a representative of HSC if the experience involves contact with human patients, human research subjects, human fluids, or human tissues.
Student Health and Health Insurance
It is compulsory for all degree-seeking students, except those enrolled in “online only” programs, to carry medical and hospitalization insurance while enrolled at HSC. Proof of insurance in the form of insurance documents showing minimum coverage amounts must be provided by the census date of each term of enrollment. Insurance coverage must remain in effect throughout the duration of enrollment. Although insurance may be purchased from any insurance carrier, a group student health insurance plan is offered by a non-university-affiliated carrier for enrolled students. Application forms are available in the Division of Student Affairs. For information on minimum coverage standards, visit http://www.unthsc.edu/students/student-health-insurance/.
Liability: Personal Property on Campus
HSC at Fort Worth is not responsible for and does not assume any liability for loss or damage of personal property. Students may want to purchase personal insurance coverage for their possessions on campus.
Student Rights and Consumer Rights
The institution will consider the impact of a caregiver’s personal cultural values, ethics, and religious beliefs as related to all services provided. However, in no instance will the mission of the institution be compromised. In accordance with applicable laws, treatment and care of our consumers will be provided to persons in need without regard to disability, race, creed, color, age, gender, religion, or national origin.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 USC § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) grants students in institutions of higher education the right of access to their educational records with the exception of confidential letters and statements of recommendation that the student has waived the right to inspect. Before disclosing any personally identifiable information, except directory information, HSC must obtain written consent from the student unless the disclosure is allowed by law.
Directory Information
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act consider certain information to be “directory information,” which is subject to disclosure without prior consent from the student. Directory information relating to students includes the following:
- Name
- Address
- University assigned e-mail address
- University assigned Enterprise-wide User Identification Number (EUID) so long as the EUID cannot be used to gain access to the student’s education records except when used in conjunction with another factor to authenticate the student’s identity
- Month, day, and place of birth
- Major field of study
- Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
- Dates of attendance
- Enrollment status (e.g., professional or graduate; full-time or part-time)
- Degrees, awards and honors received (including selection criteria)
- Expected graduation date
- Most recent previous school attended
- Photograph
- Thesis and dissertation titles
- Academic Advisor (including student’s major professor)
- Postgraduate training site for medical graduates and degree candidates
Currently enrolled students wishing to withhold any or all directory information may do so by submitting a written request in the Registrar and Student Records Office prior to the census date, or the 12th class day, in the fall and spring terms, or equivalent dates during the summer sessions. A request to withhold directory information may be submitted after the stated deadline for a term or session, but information may be released between the deadline and receipt of the request. Directory information of a student who has requested withholding of directory information will remain excluded until the student submits a subsequent written request to release directory information.
Withhold Directory Information Form
Education Records
An education record is any record maintained by the University or agency or party acting for the University from which a student can be personally identified. Records may be in any form and include, but not limited to: written documents, computer media, video or audio tape, photographs, microfilm, microfiche, and electronic files.
Changes to personal and demographic information will result in updates to your student record throughout the UNT system.
Education records do not include:
- Sole possession records (a record kept by a faculty or staff member if it is kept in the sole possession of the maker of the record and is not accessible or revealed to any other)
- Law enforcement records
- Employment records
- Medical records*
- Alumni records
- Grades on peer-graded papers before they are collected and recorded by an instructor
*Immunizations required for program participation may be noted in a student’s educational record.
Student Right to Inspect and Review Records
With limited exception, students have the right to inspect and review their education records. Students who wish to review their education records should contact the Registrar and Student Records Office. The Registrar and Student Records Office, or an appropriate university staff person, will make the needed arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. The university will comply with all student requests to review and inspect records within 45 days from the date the request was received. Students requesting access to the education records may be asked to verify their identity at the time of the request with a government-issued photo identification. Students seeking access either electronically or by telephone will be asked for items of specific individual relevance in order to verify the student’s identity. A parent of a dependent child requesting access to their child’s education record will be asked to verify both their identity and their claim of the student as a dependent for tax purposes.
Student Right to Request Amendment of Education Records
HSC students have a right to request amendment to their educational records if the student believes that the information contained in the education record is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the student’s right of privacy. The university will review requests to amend an education record and will issue a determination within a reasonable time after receiving the request.
If the university determines that an education record will not be amended, the university will inform the student of the decision and of the student’s right to a hearing in accordance with this policy. Requests for a hearing to challenge the contents of an education record must be submitted to the Senior Vice Provost of Student Affairs. The request must identify the contested items in the education record and must specify the basis for the claim that the record is inaccurate, misleading, or a violation of the privacy rights of the student. At the requested hearing, the student will be given a full and fair opportunity to present evidence, and may, at their own expense, be assisted or represented by one or more other individuals, including an attorney. If the university determines that the education record is not inaccurate, misleading, or a violation of the student’s privacy, the student may place a statement in their education record commenting on the contested content and/or stating the basis for disagreement with the university’s decision. The university will amend any education record that is determined to be inaccurate, misleading, or a violation of the student’s privacy rights, and inform the student of the amendment in writing. The right to amend or correct an education record does not apply to routine grade appeals.
Student’s Right to Consent to Disclosure of Education Records
Except in limited circumstances, HSC will not release personally identifiable information from a student’s education record without signed, dated, and written consent from the student. A student’s consent to disclose an education record to a third party must specifically identify the education record for which consent is granted, the purpose for the disclosure, and the identity of the person or entity to which the education record is to be disclosed.
Disclosure of Education Records as Permitted without a Student’s Consent
The university may disclose personally identifiable information from a student’s education record without the consent of the student to the following:
- HSC at Fort Worth may release a student’s education record to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the university in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the university has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent). A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
- HSC at Fort Worth may release a student’s education record to a student’s parent/guardian when: (1) the student is a dependent of the parent for tax purposes as evidenced by appropriate documentation, including the parent’s most recent tax return or a student financial aid application; (2) when a health or safety emergency necessitates the disclosure to protect the health or safety of the student or another individual; (3) when the student is under 21 years of age at the time of the disclosure and the student has violated a Federal, State or local law or any rule or policy of the university governing the use of possession of alcohol or a controlled substance and the university has found the student in violation of the Student Code of Conduct and Civility based on the infraction.
- Disclosure to another school to which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
- Disclosure to certain officials of the U.S. Department of Education, the Comptroller General, the Attorney General of the United States, state and local education authorities, and certain state or federally supported education programs.
- Disclosure in connection with a student’s request for or receipt of financial aid, as necessary to determine the eligibility, amount or conditions of the financial aid, or to enforce the terms or conditions of the aid.
- Disclosure pursuant to comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena.
- Disclosure to organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the university.
- Disclosure to accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions.
- Disclosure to appropriate parties, including a parent, law enforcement, or emergency personnel, in connection with a health or safety emergency.
- Disclosure to victims of an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence or a non-forcible sex offense, limited only to the final results of a disciplinary proceeding conducted by the university with respect to the alleged crime regardless of whether the university concluded a violation occurred.
- Disclosure to any member of the public in matters relating to sex offenders and information provided to the university under relevant Federal law.
Student’s Right to Report Violations of FERPA
Students also have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by HSC at Fort Worth to comply with the requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:
The United States Department of Education
Family Policy Compliance Office
400 Maryland Avenue S.W.
Washington, DC 20202-4605
University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth FERPA Policy
The HSC FERPA policy statement appears in its entirety in the HSC FERPA Policy. Questions concerning FERPA should be directed to the Registrar and Student Records Office.
Student Conduct
HSC’s primary concern is the student. It attempts to provide an environment that is conducive to academic endeavor, social growth, and individual self-discipline for all students. Enrollment at HSC is considered implicit acceptance of the rules, regulations, and guidelines governing student behavior promulgated by the institution, and the student is responsible for being aware of these requirements. In addition, all students are expected to know and obey the requirements of all federal, state, and local laws. Any student who violates a provision of those laws is subject to disciplinary action, including expulsion, notwithstanding any action taken by civil authorities because of the violation. HSC reaffirms to each student the privilege of exercising the student’s rights of citizenship under the Constitution of the United States. Special care is taken to ensure due process and to identify the defined routes of appeal when students feel their rights have been violated.
Respect for Diversity
The Nondiscrimination/Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action policy affirms the requirement for every member of the HSC community to comply with existing federal and state equal opportunity laws and regulations. HSC is committed to the philosophy of a multicultural environment. The institution prohibits harassment based on race, gender, disability, age, national origin, religion, veteran status, or lifestyle. HSC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. In addition, the HSC declares harassment that is based on individual differences (including sexual orientation) to be inconsistent with its mission and educational goals. The increasing diversity of the HSC community is one of the institution’s greatest strengths. Differences of race, religion, age, gender, culture, physical ability, language, nationality, and lifestyle make it a microcosm of the nation as a whole, reflecting the values of our pluralistic society. As an educational institution, HSC is committed to advancing the ideas of the human worth and dignity by teaching respect for human beliefs and values and encouraging open discussions. Hatred, prejudice, or harassment of any kind is inconsistent with the center’s educational purpose. HSC is strongly committed to the ethical principle that every member of the community enjoys certain human and constitutional rights, including the right to free speech. As a community of scholars, HSC also is dedicated to maintaining a learning environment that is nurturing, fosters respect, and encourages growth among cultures and individuals represented here. Individuals who work, study, live, and teach within this community are expected to refrain from behaviors that threaten the freedom and respect every individual deserves. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination can pursue a concern or a complaint through the confidential trust line at 844-692-6025, www.unthsc.ethicspoint.com or through the Office of Equal Opportunity at 1-855-878-7650.
Prohibition of Discrimination, Sexual Misconduct, Harassment and Related Retaliation Policy
HSC at Fort Worth prohibits sexual misconduct, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation because of race, color, national origin, age, religion, disability, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and veteran status or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal or state law in its application and admission processes; educational programs and activities; employment policies, procedures, and processes; caregiving; and HSC facilities. Conduct that is inconsistent with this commitment and HSC’s values is unacceptable at any location, program or activity associated with the HSC.
Title IX Policy
It is the policy of HSC to maintain a safe and respectful work and educational environment that is free from sexual harassment and that allows all individuals to participate fully in the benefits and privileges the Health Science Center offers. In furtherance of this policy, HSC prohibits sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking in its educational programs or activities, and in the workplace.
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. § 1681) is an all-encompassing federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. Although Title IX is often associated with equal opportunity in athletic programs, the law is much broader and includes discrimination on the basis of gender, sexual harassment, and sexual assault.
“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance…” 20 U.S.C. § 1681
While compliance with the law is everyone’s responsibility, oversight of HSC’s compliance with Title IX is the responsibility of the Title IX Coordinator. HSC has appointed a Title IX Coordinator to resolve complaints and address issues of gender-based discrimination and sexual misconduct. Questions or concerns regarding Title IX should be directed to:
Dr. Maureen McGuiness
Maureen.McGuinness@untsystem.edu
Phone: 817-735-5919
Office: 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd.
Student Service Center 160
Fort Worth, TX 76107
Americans with Disabilities Act
Since 1972, HSC has welcomed students with disabilities, providing the Office of Disability Access (ODA) as a central referral agency when accommodations are necessary because of specific documented limitations. HSC is committed to providing equal educational access for qualified students with disabilities in accordance with state and federal laws including the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended in 2008, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. To provide equality of access for students with disabilities, accommodations and auxiliary aids and services will be provided to the extent necessary to comply with state and federal law.
Services provided by ODA include:
- Holds the student disability documentation that admitted students provide as part of their request for academic accommodation.
- Provides accommodation information to other HSC offices to coordinate academic accommodations (interpreter, CART, scribe, taped information, typist, etc.).
- Assists students with scheduling and class access concerns.
- Provides appropriate registration assistance.
- Provides reader/scribe and adaptive equipment access for academic test situations.
- Provides liaison between students and agencies or department interpreters, note takers, tutors, and other auxiliary aids.
- Coordinates adaptive equipment access for in-class use.
- Acts as consultant in on-campus situations which constitute an accommodation challenge.
- Works with individual students and professors or academic advisors regarding accommodation needs.
- Provides assistance with access to facilities.
For information regarding applying for services, please contact ODA at oda@unthsc.edu.
HSC is committed to providing an educational environment that is free from discrimination on the basis of pregnant and parenting status in accordance with Texas Education Code, Section 51.982 and other applicable laws, including Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex (including pregnancy discrimination) in education programs or activities; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of a disability (including disabilities based on temporary medical conditions from pregnancy); and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, which prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in public schools such as institutions of higher education. For information on requesting resources and/or reasonable accommodations, please visit the Pregnancy and Parenting website: https://www.unthsc.edu/students/dsa/pregnancy-and-parenting-for-students/
Policies and Crime Reporting Procedures
Individuals should immediately report alleged criminal actions (including sex offenses) or emergencies that occur on or off-campus of the HSC through any of the following means:
For Emergencies:
- Dial 2600 on campus (this identifies your location on campus - dialing 911 DOES NOT identify your location on campus)
- Call HSC Police Department (PD) from any emergency telephone located throughout the campus
- Individuals with hearing impairments should dial 800-RELAY TX (TTY)
Emergencies include any crime in progress, medical emergencies, a strange car repeatedly driving in the same area of campus, an intoxicated person, a safety hazard, or any situation that you believe to be suspicious or dangerous.
For Non-Emergencies:
- Call HSC Police at (817) 735-2210 or personally visit the HSC PD at 3600 Mattison Avenue;
- Use one of the marked emergency telephones located throughout the campus;
- Contact an officer in uniform on patrol;
- Request that any campus official assist with reporting the alleged crime;
- TTY callers: 800-RELAY TX.
You are encouraged to report alleged crimes by using the above means; however, there are campus officials to whom you may also report a crime who have significant responsibility for student and campus activities. These officials include all deans, directors, department chairs, and administrators at the vice presidential level or higher.
The HSC PD will review reports of alleged criminal activity and will send an officer immediately or refer the report for subsequent investigation, depending upon the nature and seriousness of the offense involved. Individuals reporting an alleged crime should attempt to preserve evidence that might prove the crime was committed. All criminal incidents are investigated by HSC PD.
HSC PD response(s) include, but are not limited to:
- Immediate response to emergencies through dispatch of one or more officers
- Investigation of reports in accordance with HSC PD procedures
- Arrest and filing of charges, depending upon the circumstances of the incident
- Referring alleged offenders to appropriate campus agencies, such as the Division of Student Affairs
- Making timely warning and reports of crimes that represent a continuing threat to students, faculty, and staff
Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act is a federal law that requires institutions of higher education in the United States to disclose campus security information including crime statistics for the campus and surrounding areas.
The Annual Crime Security Report of HSC is available in the Student Affairs Office and the University Police Department. Information for HSC crime statistics is available on the Campus Police website: https://www.unthsc.edu/police/public-information/clery-act/. Additionally, campus crime logs are available for review at the University Police Department.
Substance Abuse & Self Reporting
HSC does not condone the abuse of alcohol or illegal drugs. Its administrative policies, in accordance with Texas state law, provide the penalty of up to and including suspension or dismissal for any student who abuses alcohol or uses illegal drugs on property owned or affiliated with HSC.
However, HSC recognizes that students may develop substance abuse problems that can be treated successfully before critical incidents occur (e.g., arrests, usage on campus property, or intoxication in the classroom or health professions setting). Therefore, HSC encourages students who have developed substance abuse problems to voluntarily identify themselves and to seek immediate treatment. Complete listings of all HSC policies related to substance use or abuse can be found at https://www.unthsc.edu/administrative/institutional-compliance-office/unt-health-science-center-policies/.
Behavior Intervention and Withdrawal
HSC cares about our students’ success, not only academically, but emotionally and physically as well. Because of our commitment, we provide services across campus that support and respond to our students’ unique needs. The Care Team receives referrals and supports students experiencing personal, emotional, and/or medical concerns and is made up of representatives from various departments on campus so that a well-rounded, holistic support system is in place for the HSC community. The Care Team serves as a centralized reporting source for any individual (students, faculty, staff, parents, etc.) who is concerned about a student and would like assistance. On rare occasions, the university may be required to activate a systematic response to students who may be in crisis or who may directly threaten the safety of the educational environment. The Care Team provides a supportive and respectful program of identification, intervention, and response in order to provide students with the greatest chance for success and the university community with the greatest level of protection.
This policy does not replace any academic-based withdrawal or dismissal policies, or any Student Code of Conduct & Civility procedures to address student disciplinary issues.
HIV Infection and AIDS
HSC recognizes that personnel/students with HIV infections may wish to continue in their normal work/academic activities. Such individuals may continue in their normal activities so long as their physical condition allows them to do so. Self-reporting of infectious diseases, except as required by law, is not mandatory, but is encouraged. A designated infectious disease physician will make determinations of fitness on a case-by-case basis.
Free Speech and Public Assembly on Campus Grounds
HSC recognizes that the freedom of expression and public assembly are fundamental rights of all persons and are essential components of the educational process. Such activities promote debate and the sharing of ideas, which are the foundation of educational institutions.
Absence for Religious Holy Days
In accordance with state law, students absent due to the observance of a religious holiday may take examinations or complete assignments scheduled for the day missed within a reasonable time after the absence.
Hazing
Hazing is a criminal act under the state law of Texas. By definition, “hazing” is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in an organization” whose members are or include HSC students.
Examples of hazing include, but are not limited to:
- Any type of physical brutality, such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity.
- Conduct involving sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, calisthenics, or other similar activity that subjects the student to unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student;
- Conduct involving consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug, or other substance, other than described by paragraph 5
- Conduct involving any activity that induces, causes, or requires the student to perform a duty or task that involves a violation of the Penal Code, the Code, other HSC policies;
- Conduct involving coercing the student to consume a drug and/or an alcoholic beverage or liquor in an amount that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the student is intoxicated;
- Any act that subjects the student to unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.
Hazing occurs regardless of whether the act is committed on or off the university campus and regardless of whether the student victim may have consented to or acquiesced in the activity.
A person engages in hazing not only by directly engaging in hazing activity, but also by soliciting, directing, encouraging, directing, aiding, or attempting to aid another in hazing; or by recklessly allowing hazing to occur; or by knowingly failing to report firsthand knowledge that a specific hazing incident is planned or has occurred; any person reporting a specific hazing incident involving a student to the Division of Student Affairs or other appropriate university official is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise be incurred as a result of the report if the person: (1) reports the incident before being contacted by the institution concerning the incident or otherwise being included in the institution’s investigation of the incident; and (2) as determined by the Student Conduct Officer or other appropriate official of the institution designated by the institution, cooperates in good faith throughout any institutional process regarding the incident.
A person is not immune from civil or criminal liability if the person: (1) reports the person’s own act of hazing; or (2) reports an incident of hazing in bad faith or with malice.
Students may be prosecuted for committing an act of hazing or for failing to report first-hand knowledge of hazing. Incidents or planned incidents of hazing must be reported to any one of the following:
Division of Student Affairs - (817) 735-2505
HSC Police Department - (817) 735-2210
HSC Trust Line - 1-844-692-6025
Organizations can also be prosecuted for committed acts of hazing by condoning or encouraging hazing, or if an officer or any combination of members, pledges, or alumni of the organization commit or assist in the commission of hazing. State law specifically extends the definition of “organization” to include “a fraternity, sorority, association, corporation, order, society, corps, club, or student government, a band or musical group or an academic, athletic, cheerleading, or dance team, including any group or team participating in National Collegiate Athletic Association competition or a service, social, or similar group whose members are primarily students at an educational institution.”
Organizations found to have committed an act of hazing may be fined. Individuals found guilty of hazing can be fined and sentenced to jail. Additionally, the university may discipline a student, to include permanent expulsion, and may also discipline an organization, including permanently removing the organization from campus.
State law requires HSC to post on the institution’s website a report of hazing committed on or off campus by an organization registered with or recognized by the institution. The report must also include information regarding each disciplinary action taken by the institution against an organization for hazing, and each conviction of hazing under Section 37.153 by an organization, during the three years preceding the date on which the report is issued or updated. No personally identifiable student information will be included in the report in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.
This report can be found at: https://www.unthsc.edu/care-and-civility/office-of-care-and-civility-test/student-conduct/hazing/
For further information about hazing, please contact the Division of Student Affairs, Student Service Center Suite 220, or (817) 735-2505.
Travel
It is the policy of the university to promote safety and to encourage students to engage in safe conduct when traveling to and from university activities or events. Accordingly, in addition to encouraging students to use good judgment, the university has adopted this policy and authorized the university Office of Facilities Management to approve rules designed to encourage safe behavior on the part of students presently enrolled at the university.
This policy applies to all HSC students who travel to an activity or event located more than 25 miles from the campus from which travel originates, that is organized and sponsored by the university and that is :
- Funded by HSC and the travel is using a vehicle owned or leased by HSC
- Required by a student organization properly registered at the university
- Or is connected to a HSC academic program
For purposes of this policy, an activity or event is organized and sponsored by the university when it has been planned and properly approved by the appropriate university official.
Gang Free Zones
Premises owned, rented, or leased by HSC, and areas within 1,000 feet of the premises are “gang-free” zones. Certain criminal offenses, including those involving gang-related crimes, will be enhanced to the next highest category of offense if committed in a gang-free zone by an individual 17 years or older. See Texas Penal Code, Section 71.028.
Acceptable Electronic Communications
HSC provides various electronic communication resources for the purpose of conducting business in support of HSC’s organizational mission. HSC is the legal owner and operator of all electronic communication resources purchased or leased with HSC funds. All electronic records are the property of HSC, not of the individuals creating, maintaining, sending, or receiving such data or information. Each person granted access to HSC electronic communication resources and electronic records is responsible for appropriate use as stated within this policy, as well as adherence to all applicable federal, state, and local laws. HSC reserves the right at any time to limit, restrict, or deny access to its electronic communication resources and records, as well as to take disciplinary and/or legal action against anyone who is in violation of this policy or applicable laws.
Consensual Relationships
It is the policy of the HSC that a consensual relationship between faculty or staff members in positions of authority and their subordinates or their students are not permitted. Staff members in positions of authority and faculty need to be sensitive to the potential for sexual harassment as well as conflicts of interest in personal relationships with their subordinate faculty and staff members or with their students.
Student Information Changes
Changes to or correction of student information, such as directory information, should be made either through the “Self Service” module in the Enterprise Student Information System (EIS) or in the Registrar and Student Records Office by completing a “Update Contact Information” form.
Social Media & Professionalism
Social media has created unique opportunities for interaction, communication, and networking. Students are expected to abide by the Student Code of Conduct & Civility and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) when using social media by not revealing patient/client/research subject information, private content, or proprietary information regarding patients/clients/research subjects of the institution.
Veterans Benefits
HSC Veteran’s School Certifying Officials team is located in the Registrar and Student Records Office. They provide assistance to veterans and dependents by answering general questions concerning veteran education benefits, certifying enrollments for the Department of Veterans Affairs, processing the Hazlewood benefit, and monitoring our students’ degree plans and academic progress as required for their benefits. More information on Veteran Services can be found at https://www.unthsc.edu/registrar/veterans-benefits/.
Student Academic Grievance Policy
A student seeking to resolve any problem or complaint related to an academic issue will normally seek resolution through the appropriate office on campus designated to address the particular student academic concern, i.e., the student’s academic department. Complaints regarding compliance issues should be reported to the appropriate accrediting agency.
Enrollment Status During Appeal of Expulsion, Suspension, or Administrative Withdrawal
A student who submits a request for review of a disciplinary action of suspension or expulsion may continue participating in the student’s academic program unless: the request for review has not been made within the specified timeframe according to officially recognized procedures for reviewing an expulsion or suspension decision; the presence of the student in classes, clinical rotation, or internship constitutes a disruptive influence to the educational process or to patient care activities; or the presence of the student potentially presents a threat or harm to the health, safety, or welfare of patients, students, or anyone associated with the educational process.
Transfer of Credit Policy
It is the student’s responsibility to make sure that official transcripts of courses completed elsewhere are furnished to the Registrar and Student Records Office. Students should contact their individual program office regarding their policies for transfer of credit or advanced placement/standing.
Missing Student Notification Procedure
If a member of the HSC community has a reason to believe that a student is missing, all possible efforts are made to locate the student to determine his/her state of health and well-being. The efforts to locate the student will be collaborative between the Division of Student Affairs, HSC PD, and the missing student’s family and friends. Any missing member of the HSC community under the age of 21 will be reported missing to the National Crime Information Center of the Department of Justice (Crime Control Act of 1990 - 5779 & 5780, Reporting Requirement).
Criminal Background Checks for Students Procedure
The purpose of this procedure is to establish a standardized approach regarding student background checks for applicants to or students enrolled in an educational program that includes, or may include, at a future date, assignment to a clinical health care facility. Visiting or non-degree seeking students who enroll in courses with such assignment are also subject to the policy. Presently, programs that require a background check include the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (TCOM), College of Health Professions (CHP), and UNT System College of Pharmacy (HSCCP); however, rotations and/or internship sites may also require a completed background check for students participating at their sites. This procedure is designed to provide a safe environment for patients at HSC and affiliating training sites. Criminal background checks allow the university to evaluate whether HSC students are qualified, eligible, and possess the character and fitness to participate in clinical care and/or clinical rotation sites.
Withdrawal for Active Military Service Policy
HSC students that withdraw from the university for active military service shall: (1) Receive a refund of tuition and fees for the term the student withdraws; (2) Be granted an incomplete grade in all courses by designating “withdrawn-military” on transcripts; and (3) Will be assigned an appropriate final grade or credit, as determined by the instructor, if the student has satisfactorily completed a substantial amount of coursework and has demonstrated sufficient mastery of course material.
Non-Academic Complaint/Grievance Policy
HSC strives to provide its students with a fair and efficient process to present and resolve complaints and grievances against employees. Complaints and grievances concerning their treatment by an employee related to their status as a student may be presented. All complaints and grievances should note the basis of the dispute, including specific facts, provide relevant documentation or other pertinent information, and should include the student’s desired result. Complaints related to discrimination and sexual harassment are not covered under this policy (refer to HSC’s Prohibition Against Discrimination, Sexual Misconduct, Harassment and Related Retaliation Policy and Title IX Policy). HSC offers a Trust Line to report ethical misconduct or potential ethical misconduct if it arises, if you are not comfortable sharing information with a supervisor. Students are encouraged to seek guidance or file a report via phone or online. HSC Trust Line 1-844-692-6025 or www.unthsc.ethicspoint.com
What to expect when you contact the HSC Trust Line
- You will be treated fairly. In accordance with the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth’s (HSC) Non-Retaliation Policy, HSC prohibits retaliation against anyone who raises concerns in good faith. We take this very seriously.
- You will be treated with respect. We appreciate any and all good faith reports, as they help to keep us at our best. Your concerns will remain confidential.
- Action will be taken. The Chief Compliance Officer will review the situation and determine if an investigation is required. If so, the investigation will be conducted fairly and objectively based on the information provided.
Student Affairs Policy Manual
The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth (HSC) is committed to advising students about their individual rights and responsibilities at HSC. This Policy Manual outlines policies that exist to protect the rights of our students. These policies, in particular, should be considered in conjunction with other HSC policies.
This policy manual addresses:
- HSC Admissions Policy
- Student Rights and Responsibilities Policy
- Absence for Religious Holy Days Policy
- Academic & Non-Academic Complaint/Grievance Policy
- Americans with Disabilities Act Policy
- Student Health and Health Insurance Policy
- Student Participation in Selection and Monitoring of Food Services Policy
- Student Travel Policy
- Technology Mediated Course Policy
Students enrolling in higher education for the first time during the fall 2007 academic term or any term subsequent to fall 2007 term may drop a total of six courses. This total includes any course a transfer student has dropped at another Texas public institution of higher education. This does not apply to courses dropped prior to the census date or to courses dropped with a grade of WF and does not apply if the student withdrawals from the term or session.
Certain exceptions may be made to the six drop limit. Reasonable cause for exception could include, but is not limited to, the following:
- a severe illness or other debilitating condition that affects the students’ ability to satisfactorily complete the course;
- a student’s responsibility for the care of a sick, injured, or needy person if the provision of that care affects the student’s ability to satisfactorily complete the course;
- a death of a person who is considered to be a member of the student’s family or who is otherwise considered to have a sufficiently close relationship to the student that the person’s death is considered to be a showing of good cause;
- the active duty service as a member of the Texas National Guard or the armed forces of the United States of either the student or a person who is considered to be a member of the student’s family or who is otherwise considered to have a sufficiently close relationship to the student that the person’s active military service is considered to be a showing of good cause;
- the change of the students work schedule that is beyond the control of the student that affects the student’s ability to satisfactorily complete the course.
Requests for exception to the drop limitation must be made in writing to the student’s academic dean and must occur during the semester that the dropped course was taken.
For specific information about the policies listed above visit PolicyTech.
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