2024–2025 Student Handbook Ron and Kathy Assaf College of Nursing
I Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook Nova Southeastern University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees. This handbook and the policies and programs set forth herein are effective through the academic year 2024–2025 or until superseded. Changes in the content of the student handbook may be made, at anytime, by the university, division, or college administration. Adequate notice of anticipated changes will be given to the student, whenever possible. This student handbook supersedes all previous handbooks, documents, and directives where they may be in conflict. The student handbook is the governing document for all program-related information. Students are required to comply with all policies and procedures written in the entire handbook. Please become familiar with the policies and procedures listed within. Failure to read this handbook does not excuse students from the rules, policies, and procedures contained in it. The university recognizes that individual programs require different times for the completion of academic studies leading to a degree. Therefore, the time frame is a matter within the discretion of each academic program. All program/center catalogs, bulletins, and handbooks carry this information. Students should refer to their individual program’s or center’s catalog and/or student handbook for further information about academic programs, policies, and procedures. 24-02-084SAT 24-03-076SAT 24-02-036SAT Nova Southeastern University Student Handb ok I
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Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook III Table of Contents MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT. ........................1 FOREWORD/RESERVATION OF POWER.............2 Foreword. .............................................................2 Reservation of Power...........................................3 UNIVERSITY VISION STATEMENT, MISSION STATEMENT, AND CORE VALUES.........4 Vision 2025 Statement. .......................................4 Mission Statement................................................4 NSU Core Values...................................................5 POLICIES AND PROCEDURES NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY..........7 STATEMENT ON STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES........................................9 University Equal Opportunity/ Nondiscrimination Policy....................................9 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)......................................................... 11 Release of Student Information............................12 Conduct Notifications..............................................12 Deceased Student Records....................................13 Health Care Privacy (HIPAA) Statement.......... 13 Degree Conferral Policy. ................................... 14 CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT AND ACADEMIC RESPONSIBILITY..................... 14 Academic Standards.......................................... 15 Academic Inactivity Policy................................ 16 Conduct Standards. ........................................... 17 NSU University-Wide Religious Holiday Policy..................................................... 17 NSU Interfaith Work-Restricted Religious Holiday Calendar.......................................................18 A. General Administrative Policies and Guidelines................................................... 20 A.1 Alcohol Policy.................................................... 20 A.2 Appropriate Conduct and Consensual Relationships Policy. ...............................................22 A.3 Drug-Free Schools and Campuses..............22 A.4 Excused Absences for Participation in Cocurricular Activities. ...........................................23 A.5 Flexibility in Policies. .......................................24 A.6 Health Policies...................................................24 A.7 Student Account Holds...................................26 A.8 Image Use Statement......................................26 A.9 Indebtedness to the University....................27 A.10 Leave of Absence Policy...............................28 A.11 International Travel Registration Requirement and Program....................................29 A.12 Jurisdiction of University Policies and Procedures.........................................................29 A.13 Off-Campus Residency. ................................29 A.14 Student Organization Rights and Responsibilities.................................................29 A.15 University Computer and Telecommunications Use Policy......................... 30 A.16 University Copyright and Patent Policy............................................................. 34 A.17 University Title IX/Sexual Misconduct Policy................................................... 34 A.18 Bathroom Policy............................................. 34 B. Specific Conduct Violations..........................35 B.1 Alcoholic Beverages. ........................................35 B.2 Animals................................................................36 B.3 Assault/Violence. .............................................36 B.4 Bribery.................................................................37 B.5 Cheating..............................................................37 B.6 Complicity...........................................................37 B.7 Contracting on Behalf of the University.....37 B.8 Damage or Vandalism to Property..............37 B.9 Dangerous Items...............................................37 B.10 Disorderly Conduct. .......................................38 B.11 Distributing or Posting Printed Media........38 B.12 Drugs, Drug Paraphernalia...........................38 B.13 Emergency Equipment and Procedures...38 B.14 Facilitating Academic Dishonesty..............39 B.15 Failure to Disclose Criminal Offenses........39 B.16 False Information (Including Fabrication, Fraud, and Falsification of Records)...................39
IV Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook B.17 Fire...................................................................... 40 B.18 Gambling and/or Games of Chance. ........ 40 B.19 Guests................................................................ 40 B.20 Harassment or Harm to Others................. 40 B.21 Hate-Based Conduct Violations. .................41 B.22 Hazing.................................................................41 B.23 Health and Safety............................................41 B.24 Identification Cards. ......................................42 B.25 Interference with University Investigations, Disciplinary Proceedings, or Records..................................................................42 B.26 Lake Swimming...............................................42 B.27 Littering/Projecting Objects.......................42 B.28 Misuse of Computers or Telecommunications (Technology). ...................43 B.29 Noise..................................................................43 B.30 Online/Internet Social Networking Usage...................................................43 B.31 Parking and Motor Vehicle Policy...............43 B.32 Plagiarism........................................................ 44 B.33 RecWell Center Policies and Procedures........................................................ 44 B.34 Removal or Ejection from a UniversitySponsored Event..................................................... 44 B.35 Requests or Orders....................................... 44 B.36 University Housing and Residence Life Policies and Procedures........................................ 44 B.37 Retaliation........................................................ 44 B.38 Smoking/Tobacco-Free Policy.................. 44 B.39 Solicitation........................................................45 B.40 Stalking.............................................................45 B.41 Fraternity and Sorority Life Manual/Policies.........................................................45 B.42 Theft or Unauthorized Possession............45 B.43 Unauthorized Entry. ..................................... 46 B.44 Unauthorized Possession of University Property................................................ 46 B.45 Unauthorized Recording............................. 46 B.46 Video and/or Audio Copyright Violation. ............................................... 46 B.47 Violation of Disciplinary Status/Conditions................................................... 46 B.48 Worthless Checks. ........................................ 46 C. University Title IX/Sexual Misconduct Policy............................................. 46 D. University Disciplinary Procedures..............47 D.1 Introduction.........................................................47 D.2 Student Judicial Resolution (SJR)................51 D.3 Judicial Conference..........................................52 D.4 Administrative Judicial Proceeding........... 54 D.5 University Title IX/Sexual Misconduct Disciplinary Procedures. ........................................57 E. Additional Grievance Procedures Available.........................................57 E.1 Grievance Procedure for Discrimination Based on Disability..................................................57 E.2 Nonacademic Grievance Procedure............62 NSU RESOURCES AND ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES.................................63 ATMs....................................................................63 Bookstore. ..........................................................63 Campus Shuttle................................................. 64 Enrollment Management and Student Affairs (EMSA)................................................... 64 Center for Academic and Professional Success.............................................. 64 Center for Student Counseling and Well-Being................................................................. 64 Office of Campus Life and Student Engagement..............................................65 Office of Financial Aid. ...........................................65 Office of International Affairs.............................. 66 Office of Recreation and Wellness..................... 66 Office of Residence Life........................................ 66 Office of Student Affairs at the Regional Campuses.................................................67 Office of Student Affairs Marketing....................67 Office of Student Conduct. ...................................67 Office of Student Disability Services..................67 Office of Student Leadership and Civic Engagement..............................................................67 Office of Student Success..................................... 68 Office of Undergraduate Admissions................ 68 Student Activity Fee Accounts Office............... 68 Tutoring and Testing Center. ............................... 68 Office of the University Bursar............................ 68 Office of the University Registrar....................... 69 One-Stop Shop. ....................................................... 69 Mako Media Network. ....................................... 69 Military Affairs Veterans Resource Center...... 69
Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook V NSU Alumni Association................................... 70 NSU Athletics..................................................... 70 NSU Health......................................................... 70 Student Medical Center................................................71 NSU Public Safety Department......................... 71 Office of Innovation and Information Technology....................................72 Office of University Housing. ............................72 SharkCard Services............................................72 SharkPrint...........................................................73 Shark Dining Services........................................73 Title IX/Sexual Misconduct ...............................74 University Libraries............................................74 Wireless Networking. ........................................75 Writing and Communication Center (WCC). ...75 UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATORS.........................76 COLLEGES AND ACADEMIC UNITS. ...................78 ACCREDITATION...................................................79 DIVISION-SPECIFIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES HEALTH PROFESSIONS DIVISION. ............ 81 HEALTH PROFESSIONS DIVISION......................83 Building Hours....................................................83 Charges and Payments......................................83 Tuition Credit Policy—Voluntary Drops and Withdrawals................................................83 Short-Term Preloans......................................... 84 Martin and Gail Press Health Professions Division Library................................................. 84 Tampa Bay Regional Campus Library.............. 86 Lost and Found...................................................87 Computer Laboratories. ....................................87 Student Lounge/Student Area..........................87 HPD POLICIES AND PROCEDURES.....................88 Acceptance of Professional Fees......................88 Background Checks. ..........................................88 Health Forms Requirements. ........................... 89 Certificate of Physical Examination................... 89 Immunization Requirements. .............................. 89 Urine Drug Screen................................................... 90 Dress Code.......................................................... 91 Food in the Lecture Halls, Laboratories, and Clinics........................................................... 91 Identification Requirements and Fieldwork Prerequisites..................................... 91 Email.................................................................... 91 Notices, Messages, and Posters........................ 91 Parking Lot/Garage. ..........................................92 Photographs and Recordings............................92 Postexposure Policies and Procedures............92 Return of University Property...........................93 Security Checks..................................................93 Social Events and Extracurricular Activities....93 Student Assistance Program............................ 94 Student Employment.........................................95 Student Insurance Requirement.......................95 Affirmative Opt-Out Required. ........................... 96 Cell Phones, Computers, Tablets, and Electronic Devices............................................. 96 Visitors............................................................... 96 Visits to Other Institutions. .............................. 96 COLLEGE-SPECIFIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES RON AND KATHY ASSAF COLLEGE OF NURSING............................... 97 RON AND KATHY ASSAF COLLEGE OF NURSING........................................99 Administration. ................................................. 99 Fees and Expenses...........................................100 Mission Statement.............................................101 Vision Statement...............................................101 Core Values........................................................101 Reservation of Power........................................101
VI Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook Accreditation—Nursing Program. .................. 102 National Licensure and Certification.............. 102 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)— NCLEX-R.N............................................................... 102 M.S.N.—Advanced Practice Registered Nurse.................................................... 102 Licensure Requirement. ....................................... 103 ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES....... 103 Academic Progression..................................... 103 Exam Reviews and Follow Up. ........................ 103 Grading System................................................ 103 Grading Progression........................................ 103 Transcript Notations. .......................................104 Agreement for Incomplete Grades................. 105 Student Evaluation of Courses and Didactic Instruction. ........................................106 Course Failures.................................................106 Grade Disputes.................................................106 Dropping a Course. .......................................... 107 Academic Withdrawal from a Course/Program............................................... 107 Withdrawal, Drop, and Readmission.............. 107 Withdrawal............................................................... 107 Undergraduate Students..................................... 107 Graduate Students.................................................108 Students Enrolled in Programs that Have Drop/Add Programs..............................................108 Readmission. ...........................................................108 Readmission Following Dismissal. .................108 Transfer Credits................................................109 Postgraduate Certificate A.P.R.N...................109 Leave from Studies. ..........................................110 1. Leave of Absence (LOA)....................................110 2. Administrative Break in Enrollment..............110 3. Course Status During an Administrative Break in Enrollment ................................................ 111 4. Communication with the ACON During a Leave of Absence/Administrative Break in Enrollment................................................................. 112 5. Return from Administrative Break in Enrollment. ........................................................... 112 6. Leave of Absence Records. ............................. 112 Graduation Requirements................................ 112 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)........... 112 Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.— Traditional Master’s Role). .................................... 113 Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.—A.P.R.N. Role). ........................................ 113 Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.)................... 113 Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing with a Focus on Nursing Education or Administrative Leadership................................... 114 Graduation with Honors—Diploma. ................114 President’s List..................................................114 Dean’s List.......................................................... 115 Applying for Graduation. ................................. 115 Campus/Program Transfer............................... 115 Health Forms and Examinations...................... 115 Health Insurance. ..............................................116 Client Safety. .....................................................116 Background Checks. .........................................116 Immunization Requirements............................ 117 Eligibility for Florida R.N. Licensure and Required Disclosure.......................................... 117 ACADEMIC SUPPORT.......................................... 117 Student and Alumni Organizations. ................ 117 Sigma Theta Tau...................................................... 117 Florida Nursing Student Association. ............... 117 Advisement........................................................118 Academic Advising................................................. 118 Registration. ............................................................. 118 Degree Works Report............................................ 118 Channels of Communication............................118 Program Contact Numbers.................................. 119 Ron and Kathy Assaf College of Nursing Hours. ......................................................... 119 Community Activities...................................... 120 Undergraduate Service Hours......................... 120 Student Grievances.......................................... 120 Resource Requirements. .................................. 121
Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook VII General Minimum System Requirements......... 121 Internet Service Provider. ............................... 122 Audio and Videotaping. .................................. 122 Computers in Classroom. ................................ 122 Textbooks and Supplies. ................................. 122 Course Assignment Format............................. 123 STUDENT PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.......... 123 Attendance....................................................... 123 Student Responsibility for Missed Assignments.............................................. 124 Faculty Member Responsibility for Missed Assignments.............................................. 124 Clinical/Laboratory/Practicum Absence. ....... 124 Clinical Rotations and Practicum Experiences......................................... 124 Graduate A.P.R.N. Students................................ 124 Promptness.............................................................. 125 Religious Holiday Policy....................................... 125 Dress Code........................................................ 125 Identification Badges. ..................................... 127 Service Animals................................................ 127 Classroom Behavior......................................... 127 Netiquette......................................................... 127 Social Media...................................................... 128 Drug Screening................................................. 128 Drug Policy—Zero Tolerance........................... 128 BEHAVIORAL AND ACADEMIC DISCIPLINARY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES........................... 129 Committee on Student Progress..................... 129 Process and Procedure......................................... 130 Student Code of Conduct, Student Academic and Disciplinary Procedures, and Academic Dishonesty................................ 131 Academic Warning/Probation/Dismissal....... 131 Academic Warning................................................. 131 Academic Probation.............................................. 132 Academic Dismissal............................................... 132 Behavioral Warning/Probation/Dismissal. ... 132 Behavioral Warning............................................... 132 Behavioral Probation. ........................................... 133 Behavioral Dismissal. ............................................ 133 Process and Procedure.................................... 133 Student Appeals............................................... 133 Policy and Procedure for Appeals. ................... 133 Appeals Committee Responsibilities. .............. 134 Appeals Committee Membership. .................... 134 Hearings Protocol and Procedure..................... 134 Appeals Committee Hearing Process.............. 135 Notification of the Appeals Committee Decision.............................................. 135 Identification of the Chemically Impaired Nursing Student. .............................................. 135 UNDERGRADUATE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS. .. 136 Entry Nursing Program Description. .............. 136 General Math Competency.............................. 136 Course Remediation. ....................................... 136 Course Remediation—NUR 3032.................... 136 Exit Requirements for the B.S.N. Programs............................................... 137 For the B.S.N. Programs. ..................................... 137 GRADUATE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS................ 138 Post-Licensure Student Practicum or Clinical Requirements...................................... 138 M.S.N.—Traditional Program Description...... 138 Exit Requirements for M.S.N. Program. ......... 138 M.S.N. Advanced Practice Registered Nurse: Family Nurse Practitioner, AdultGerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, or Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program Descriptions................. 138 Post-M.S.N. in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Certificate Programs. ........ 139 Exit Requirements for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Program.............................. 139 D.N.P. Program Description. ........................... 139 B.S.N. to D.N.P. Program................................. 139 D.N.P. Project....................................................140 Exit Requirements for D.N.P. Program...........140
VIII Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook Ph.D. Program Description and Progression. ..............................................140 D.N.P. to Ph.D. Program....................................141 Research Hours. ................................................141 Comprehensive Examination...........................141 Dissertation Requirements. .............................141 Dissertation Committee Makeup.................... 142 Dissertation Proposal Defense. ...................... 142 Format for Proposal Defense.......................... 142 Dissertation Defense. ...................................... 142 Format for Dissertation Defense. ................... 143 Exit Requirements for Ph.D. Program. ........... 143 APPENDIX...................................................145 NSU Fort Lauderdale/Davie Campus Map. .... 146 Updated May 9, 2024 148 24-02-036SAT 148
Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook 1 Welcome to Shark Nation, with the Mako Shark, Razor, as our mascot! As Sharks, you’re beginning a journey full of new possibilities and experiences. Part of this journey is academic, as you learn from our diverse and experienced faculty. You and your colleagues will benefit from their expertise, and you’ll learn to work together as you tackle new challenges. I encourage you to take a wide latitude with your academic courses and explore subjects that can both excite and enrich. Studies have shown that a student who is engaged outside of the classroom will remain enrolled at the university and ultimately graduate as a leader. As such, NSU has much to offer outside the classroom. We have many on-campus clubs and organizations to join, as well as internship opportunities across multiple disciplines. Also, our Shark student-athletes compete in a variety of sports and have won 11 NCAA national championships over the years. We even have an art museum in downtown Fort Lauderdale that is free for all students to explore. I always advise students to keep their aim above their reach and set goals for which they can track their progress throughout the year. I know you’ll make the most of your time at NSU and surpass those goals you set—Mako Sharks swim faster, jump higher, and always swim forward! Go Sharks, and FINS UP! Sincerely, George L. Hanbury II, Ph.D. President and CEO Nova Southeastern University Message from the President
2 Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook Foreword/Reservation of Power Foreword For the purpose of promoting its educational mission, Nova Southeastern University (NSU) has the inherent right to preserve order and maintain stability through the setting of standards of conduct and the prescribing of procedures for the enforcement of such standards. In addition to maintaining order and stability, whenever possible, the university aims to utilize its disciplinary procedures as a developmental process. In accordance with this philosophy, educational assignments may be added to any disciplinary penalties. The foundation underlying such student standards relies on the tenet that the exercise of individual rights must be accompanied by an equal amount of responsibility. This assures that the same rights are not denied to others. By becoming a member of the university community, a student acquires rights in, as well as responsibilities to, the whole university community. These rights and responsibilities are included in this handbook. Students are required to comply with all NSU regulations as well as all local, city, county, state, and federal laws at all times. All students are subject to the policies and procedures as contained herein. The term “students” includes any individual enrolled in a course or academic program offered by NSU, whether in a degree-seeking program or not. In addition, any student residing in university residence facilities is subject to these policies and procedures for violations occurring within those facilities. Any act that constitutes a violation or an attempt to violate any of the policies or procedures contained herein may establish cause for disciplinary and/or legal action by the university. In circumstances where this handbook defines a violation more stringently or differently than local/state law, the handbook’s definition shall supersede. The university is not limited to or bound by the definitions contained in the local/state statutes or case law in addressing student conduct violations. Students are also subject to rules and regulations that apply to academic programs of the various schools and colleges of the university, including, but not limited to, the Code of Student Conduct and Academic Responsibility. Students should familiarize themselves with their individual college academic, conduct, and professionalism standards, in addition to the information contained in the NSU Student Handbook. Students who engage in conduct that endangers their health or safety, or the health or safety of others, may be required to participate and make satisfactory progress in a program of medical evaluation and/or treatment if they are to remain at the university, reside in university housing, participate in any program, service, or activity offered by NSU, or if their physical presence is to be permitted on campus or university properties. The determination as to the student’s participation and progress is to be made by the NSU Student Behavioral Concerns Committee. The university reserves the right to place conditions upon or require the withdrawal of a student from enrollment, university housing, or participation in any program, service, or activity offered by NSU, and/or to prohibit the student’s physical presence on university campuses and properties when the student’s continuation or presence therein, in the university’s judgment, is detrimental to the health or safety of the student or others. Policies and procedures associated with the Student Behavioral Concerns Committee can be found on the NSU Student Conduct website at nova.edu/studentconduct/Student%20Behavioral%20Concerns%20 Committee%20Policies.html.
Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook 3 In lieu of, or in addition to, disciplinary action, NSU also reserves the right to impose fines, take legal action, rescind housing privileges, revoke study abroad privileges, withhold student records, revoke other privileges, and impose other penalties as may be deemed appropriate. Students should also be aware that disciplinary action may impact eligibility for scholarships or other institutional financial aid. Furthermore, admission of a student to NSU for any semester does not imply or guarantee that such student will be reenrolled in any succeeding academic semester. Students may also be subject to disciplinary proceedings for acts committed before their admission and/or enrollment at NSU. Reservation of Power The NSU Student Handbook is not intended to be a contract or part of a contractual agreement between NSU and the student. From time to time, it may be advisable for the university to alter or amend its procedures or policies. Reasonable notice may be furnished to the university community of any substantive changes, but is not required. Whenever specific titles are used in these procedures, they shall include the appropriate designee of the person bearing these titles. Whenever references to the singular appear in this handbook, the plural is also intended; whenever the plural is used, the singular is also intended. Wherever a reference is made to the masculine gender, the feminine gender is included. Failure to read this handbook does not excuse students from the rules, policies, and procedures contained within the student handbook. The rights and responsibilities that follow take effect immediately upon publication of this document.
4 Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook University Vision Statement, Mission Statement, and Core Values Vision 2025 Statement By 2025, NSU will be recognized as a preeminent, professional-dominant, doctoral-research university that provides competitive career advantages to its students and produces alumni who serve and lead with integrity. Mission Statement The mission of NSU—a selective, doctoral-research university—is to deliver innovative academic programs in a dynamic, lifelong learning and research environment fostering integrity, academic excellence, leadership, and community service through engaged students, faculty, and staff.
Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook 5 NSU Core Values INTEGRITY Integrity involves honesty and fairness, consistency in instruction, ethics of scholarship, freedom of inquiry, and open and truthful engagement with the community through effective communication, policies and practices. ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Academic excellence is the provision of the highest quality educational and learning experiences made possible by academically and professionally qualified and skilled instructional faculty and staff, opportunities for contextual learning, state-of-the-art facilities, beautiful surroundings, and effective resources necessary to support learning at the highest level. Additionally, academic excellence reflects the successful relationship between engaged learners and outstanding instructional faculty and staff. COMMUNITY NSU is a community of faculty staff, students and alumni that share a common identity and purpose who engages with the university’s external community through diverse services, clinical programs, and community-based research and resources. Our community extends into professional, intellectual, as well as geographical domains that both support and are the focus of our educational mission. DIVERSITY Diversity includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, culture, religion, philosophy, gender, physical characteristics, socioeconomic status, age, and sexual orientation. It also includes differences in views, interpretations, and reactions, with mutual respect for all. Diversity makes NSU a stronger university and enriches a learning environment focused on preparing individuals to live and work in a global society. INNOVATION Innovation is the creative and deliberate application of teaching, research, scholarship and service for effective education, and the development of useful products or processes providing a value added to the community. OPPORTUNITY Opportunity fosters the possibility for anyone associated with NSU to acquire an education or an educational experience through creative, yet sound pedagogical programs. SCHOLARSHIP/RESEARCH Research and scholarship products are disseminated and evaluated through intellectual discourse, application, assessment, and other mechanisms of the relevant peer community. STUDENT CENTERED Students are the focus of institutional priorities, resource decisions, and planning. We are stewards of student needs and advocates for student academic success and professional development. (The Vision 2025 Statement, Mission Statement, and Core Values were adopted by the NSU Board of Trustees on March 29, 2021.)
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Policies and Procedures Nova Southeastern University
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Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook 9 Statement on Student Rights and Responsibilities As a community, Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is committed to furthering scholarship, academic pursuits, and service to our society. All students have an equal opportunity to fulfill their intellectual potential through pursuit of the highest standards of academic excellence. Nova Southeastern University students enjoy the right to learn in an environment that is free from discrimination based on the University Equal Opportunity/Nondiscrimination Policy included below. It is important that rights of NSU students be embraced by the university community and observed in the spirit of the university’s mission. Certain rights and obligations flow from membership in any academic community committed to such goals, including • respect for the equal rights and dignity of others • to be treated equally in academic and social settings • to live and/or attend classes in a physically safe campus environment • the expectation of a positive living/learning environment • the ability to initiate a complaint relating to the Code of Student Conduct and Academic Responsibility • personal and intellectual freedom, which are fundamental to the idea of a university • dedication to the scholarly and educational purposes of the university • participation in promoting and ensuring the academic quality and credibility of the institution • to provide service to our community and beyond • to engage in service opportunities that enhance learning outcomes, both on and off campus • to associate with student organizations of one’s own choosing Students are responsible for obtaining, learning, and observing the established university and academic center policies as listed in all official publications. All members of the NSU community should inform the appropriate university official of any violation of the Code of Student Conduct and Academic Responsibility. University Equal Opportunity/Nondiscrimination Policy Consistent with all federal and state laws, rules, regulations, and/or local ordinances (e.g., Title VII, Title VI, Title III, Title II, Rehab Act, ADA, Title IX, and the Florida Civil Rights Act), it is the policy of Nova Southeastern University not to engage in any discrimination or harassment against any individuals because of race, color, religion or creed, sex, pregnancy status, national or ethnic origin, nondisqualifying disability, age, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, military service, veteran status, or political beliefs or affiliations, and to comply with all federal and state nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action laws, orders, and regulations. Any such acts are unacceptable and strictly prohibited by the university.
10 Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook In addition, the law prohibits retaliation against an individual for opposing any practices forbidden under this policy, for bringing a complaint of discrimination or harassment, for assisting someone with such a complaint, for attempting to stop such discrimination or harassment, or for participating in any manner in any investigation or resolution of a complaint of discrimination or harassment. This nondiscrimination policy applies to NSU’s education activities and programs, including admissions; enrollment; scholarships; loan programs; athletics; employment; and access to, participation in, and treatment in all university centers, programs, and activities. NSU admits students of any race, color, religion or creed, sex, pregnancy status, national or ethnic origin, nondisqualifying disability, age, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, military service, veteran status, or political beliefs or affiliations, to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at NSU, and does not discriminate in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. The person listed below has been designated to handle inquiries and complaints regarding perceived discrimination and NSU nondiscrimination policies. NSU does not discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and its regulations, including admissions and employment. Inquiries about Title IX may be referred to NSU’s Title IX coordinator, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, or both. NSU’s Title IX coordinator is Laura Bennett. Laura Bennett Title IX Coordinator/Managing Director of Title IX Compliance (954) 262-7858 • laura.bennett@nova.edu nova.edu/title-ix Mailing Address Office of Human Resources 3300 S. University Drive Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328-2004 The office of the Title IX coordinator is remote/virtual with team offices in the Campus Support Building (170B, 171, 174). Please visit nova.edu/title-ix to review NSU’s Title IX nondiscrimination policy and grievance procedures, to report information about conduct that may constitute sex discrimination, or to make a complaint of sex discrimination under Title IX. All other inquiries or complaints regarding perceived discrimination should be directed to Benjamin Johnson, Ed.D. Dean of Students (954) 262-7281 • bj379@nova.edu At Nova Southeastern University, we strive to foster an inclusive campus environment where belonging matters and where self-expression is encouraged. NSU is implementing a preferred name and pronouns policy that will allow students and employees to identify themselves within the NSU community with preferred names that differ from their legal names and/or with preferred pronouns.
Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook 11 Additionally, students and employees will now be able to designate preferred names as well as their legal names and their preferred pronouns in the various technological mediums. To find out all the details regarding the official policy, FAQs, and general instructions and tips on changing preferred names and pronouns, visit nova.edu/bedi/names-pronouns.html. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) affords students and alumni certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights include the following: • The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the university receives a request for access. A student should submit to the Office of the University Registrar a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The Office of the University Registrar will arrange for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. • The right to request the amendment of the student’s education record that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Students who believe their education records contain information that is inaccurate or misleading, or is otherwise in violation of the students’ privacy or other rights, may discuss their concerns informally with the Office of the University Registrar. If the decision is in agreement with the student’s requests, the appropriate records will be amended. If not, the student will be notified within a reasonable period that the records will not be amended and will be informed by the Office of the University Registrar of the student’s right to a formal hearing. • The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the university in an administrative, supervisory, academic, 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, collection agent, loan servicing agent, or the National Student Clearinghouse); a person serving on the board of trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official(s) in performing their tasks. School officials have a legitimate education interest if the school officials need to review an education record in order to fulfill their professional responsibility. Upon request, the university may disclose educational records, without consent, to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll or is already enrolled, so long as the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment and transfer. • The right to file a complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, D.C., 20202-4605, concerning alleged failures by Nova Southeastern University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. • The right to be notified of students’ rights under FERPA annually. The Office of the University Registrar sends a FERPA notification via email to all students each fall.
12 Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook Nova Southeastern University hereby designates the following student information as public or directory information; such information may be disclosed by the institution for any purpose, at its discretion: • student name • local and home address • telephone numbers • email addresses • photo ID • major field of study • participation in sports • place of birth • dates of attendance • degrees, honors, and awards received • enrollment status • year in school • anticipated graduation date • photographs and video recordings taken in public places Please know, however, that Nova Southeastern University’s directory information policy is to never release this information to any third-party vendors. Release of Student Information A student can give consent to permit Nova Southeastern University to discuss and/or release personally identifiable information to a third party such as a spouse, a parent, a guardian, etc. Students can manage this consent in Self-Service Banner/SharkLink (nova.edu/roi). However, the university is under no obligation to discuss and/or release personally identifiable information from a student’s education record to a third party, except in limited circumstances under FERPA, or when legally compelled to do so. A student may also withhold directory information (as defined above) by completing the Request to Prevent Disclosure of Directory Information Form. A student is warned, however, that some of the consequences of preventing disclosure of directory information may be undesirable: a student’s name will not be published on the Dean’s List or commencement program, and requests from prospective employers are denied, and the student cannot be communicated with over the telephone. The only legal means of communicating with a student who submitted a Request to Prevent Disclosure of Directory Information Form is in person or through NSU email. Students may visit the registrar’s website at nova.edu/registrar/services/ferpa.html for more information about rights with respect to their education records. Conduct Notifications University personnel may use administrative discretion with parental or legal guardian notification, in writing and/or by phone, of a student younger than 21 years of age when violations of university alcohol or drug policies occur, or when a student’s health or safety is at issue.
Nova Southeastern University Student Handbook 13 Deceased Student Records Records of a deceased student will be made available to the parent(s), spouse, or executor/executrix of the deceased student and other authorized parties upon written request. The request must include the need for the records, must identify the requestor’s relationship to the deceased student, and must be accompanied with an official record certifying authorization to receive the student records—e.g., assignment as executor/executrix. An official copy of the death certificate must accompany the request, if the university does not have prior notice of the student’s death. The university reserves the right to deny the request. For additional assistance on this matter, students should contact the Office of the University Registrar. Health Care Privacy (HIPAA) Statement The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) requires “covered entities” to abide by the regulations governing the privacy, confidentiality, and security of protected health information, defined as individually identifiable health information created, received, maintained, or transmitted at or by a covered entity, whether such information is electronic, written, or spoken. NSU is considered a “hybrid entity” for purposes of compliance with the HIPAA Privacy and Security Regulations, as NSU’s business activities include both covered and noncovered functions. As such, NSU Health’s covered health clinics are subject to the requirements of the HIPAA Privacy and Security Regulations, as well as policies implemented by NSU. Pursuant to the HIPAA Privacy and Security Regulations, each covered NSU Health clinic is responsible for enacting privacy and security policies and procedures. Thus, the various NSU Health clinics that provide patient care in a HIPAA-covered setting have enacted such policies and procedures. All NSU Health clinic workers, including, but not limited to, faculty members, employees, and trainees, are responsible for following the policies and procedures implemented by the applicable NSU Health clinic. In addition, the HIPAA regulations require that NSU provides training to its health clinic faculty members, employees, and trainees with respect to its HIPAA Privacy, Security, and Research policies and procedures. NSU has developed a comprehensive online education program designed to comply with the HIPAA Regulations and to educate its workforce members and others who use, disclose and/or access protected health information. Applicable NSU Health and/or mental health profession students and trainees will be required to complete the education program coordinated through their respective college/academic program. Violations of the NSU policies and procedures regarding privacy and security of protected health information will be reported to the appropriate supervising authority for potential disciplinary action, up to, and including, dismissal in accordance with the applicable college/academic program policies. Further, NSU faculty members and students may be subject to the HIPAA privacy and security policies and procedures enacted by various non-NSU Health/health care facilities in which they train. It is the responsibility of the faculty members and students to familiarize themselves with such policies and procedures upon entering each facility. Any questions concerning the HIPAA privacy policies can be directed to the HIPAA liaison of the faculty members/students’ NSU Health clinic, the NSU chief privacy officer, or the NSU chief information security officer. Please see the NSU Health Clinics HIPAA Privacy Policies and Procedures on the NSU Office of HIPAA Privacy website at nova.edu/hipaa-privacy.
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