ATSU Policies

University Student Handbook

The ATSU University Catalog and University Student Handbook both contain policies relevant to all students. Please check the ATSU Student Handbook for additional information and as referenced throughout this Catalog. The ATSU Student Handbook may be accessed by selecting the University Student Handbook from the drop-down menu at the top of any page.  Users may return to the University Catalog by selecting the Catalog from the same drop-down menu.

Admissions Policies

Transfer Credit

The following criteria must be satisfied in order for transfer of credit application to be considered:

• Submit the completed transfer of credit application to the program chair and include the following:
  • Course syllabi or copy of course catalog with course description.
  • Official transcript documenting successful completion of transfer course(s).
• Course is a graduate level course from a regionally accredited university in the United States.
• Course clearly meets the defined goals and objectives of a specific course being offered by ATSU.
• Student earned a minimum of a B in the course.
• Course was taken no more than 7 years prior to the transfer of credit application completion date (unless otherwise stated in an institutional agreement).
• The transferring course must be equivalent to or greater than the amount of credit assigned to the specified ATSU course.
• No more than 45% of the program’s total credits can be accepted as transfer credit (unless otherwise stated in an institutional agreement).

Transfer Credit Applications may be obtained by the student at: https://www.atsu.edu/pdf/transfer_credit_application.pdf.  The appropriate ATSU program chair will review the application and make a determination within 30 days of receiving the completed application packet. Once a decision is made by the program chair, the application and all accompanying materials will be forwarded to the Registrar’s Office for final review. Once signed and approved by the Registrar’s Office, the transfer credit will be processed.

Transferability of ATSU Credits

The transferability of credits you earn at ATSU is at the complete discretion of an institution to which you may seek to transfer. Acceptance of the degree, diploma, or certificate you earn in a program of study is also at the complete discretion of the institution to which you may seek to transfer. If the credits, degree, diploma, or certificate that you earn at this institution are not accepted at the institution to which you seek to transfer, you may be required to repeat some or all of your coursework at that institution. For this reason, you should make certain that your attendance at this institution will meet your educational goals. This may include contacting an institution to which you may seek to transfer to after attending ATSU to determine if your academic credits, degree, diploma or certificate will transfer.

Veteran’s Education Benefits

A.T. Still University is approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs to certify the enrollment of students eligible to receive VA educational benefits.

Review of Prior Training Requirement

In the instance where a program accepts transfer credit, this institution will inquire about each veteran’s previous education and training, and request transcripts from all prior institutions, including military training, traditional college coursework and vocational training. Previous transcripts will be evaluated and credit will be granted, as appropriate.

Many of ATSU’s programs require students to provide copies of their official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended as one of the admissions requirements. Student veterans that have been accepted to a program that does not require transcripts from all colleges and universities attended will have to provide these copies to their School Certifying Official. These transcripts beyond the required documents for admission do not have to be official copies.

If you have any questions, please contact your School Certifying Official (SCO):

Re-Admission Policy and Procedures

In most instances, students withdrawing from ATSU, regardless of the reason, must apply for re-admission. To apply for re-admission, the applicant should submit the Application for Re-Admission to the Registrar’s Office at least one month in advance of the time the applicant wishes to re-enroll (three months are preferred). The Admissions Committee will consider the applicant and may ask for letters of reference, medical documentation, etc., and will review the student’s credentials on file with the ATSU Registrar’s Office. The Admissions Committee has the right to conduct interviews, secure documentation, evaluate past grades/performance, etc. Since the reason each applicant left is unique, the information required by the Admissions Committee may vary. The Admissions Committee has the right to reject an applicant’s request for re-admission. The Admissions Committee will consult with the dean of the college/school to establish placement and academic conditions for re-admission. If a background check is required for your program of study, a new background check will be required.

Former students who have been withdrawn or dismissed from ATSU for greater than two years may be required to complete the admission process used for all new applicants.

Matriculated Student Policies

Matriculation

A student is considered matriculated when a faculty/staff member has confirmed they began attendance during the first week of the term. At that time the student’s status is changed to active in the CampusNexus system and they will be considered officially enrolled within the University.

ATSU Credit Hour

This policy sets forth the definition for determining credit hours at A.T. Still University.  The purpose of this policy to provide consistency within each program in the calculation of credit hours for didactic (including online), laboratory and clinical courses.   ATSU has adopted the semester credit hour.  This policy is in adherence with the Higher Learning Commission Policy FDCR.A.10.020-Assignment of Credits, Program Length, and Tuition.

In calculating credit hours, one hour of credit is awarded for:

• 15 instructional hours with anticipated student activity of 2 additional hours per instructional hour for reading, preparing assignments, etc. which is equivalent to 45 hours of student activity.
• 30 course lab hours
• 1 week of clinical rotation
• 60 research hours

Enrollment Status

This policy sets forth the definitions for determining student enrollment status. Eligibility to receive federal financial aid and in-school loan deferment requires students to be enrolled at a minimum of half-time status. Federal guidelines permit graduate schools to establish their own enrollment status definitions.

Programs under the ATSU semester system are defined as follows for each term (fall, spring, and summer terms)..

Enrollment Status Definitions

Continuous Enrollment

Students must maintain continuous enrollment until completion of all graduation requirements. Maintaining continuous enrollment and payment of the associated tuition charge acknowledges both the student’s own academic efforts in completion of degree requirements without having to reapply to the University and the student’s use of University resources, including facilities and faculty services.

Continuous enrollment must be for a minimum of one-hour credit in the appropriate course designated by the department or school. When no suitable credit registration is available, students may fulfill the continuous enrollment requirement by registration in Continuous Graduate Enrollment CGE700, for no academic credit. Tuition for CGE700 will be charged at the rate of $400/per quarter or $800/semester. The appropriate charge will be assessed for each quarter/semester that the student maintains enrollment until all degree requirements are completed. Tuition assessed under this policy will not be pro-rated.

Good Standing

A.T. Still University students are considered in good academic standing if their CampusNexus “School Status” is listed as Active, Active-Fellowship, or NDS-Attending or reported as defined specifically by the requesting body.  A student’s status may be verified by contacting the Registrar’s Office at registrarsoffice@atsu.edu.

Code of Academic Conduct

Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner befitting the learned and honorable profession which they are entering. This code is directed to the expectation of academic honesty. While students have an obligation to assist fellow students in meeting the common goals of education, they have an equal obligation to maintain the highest standards of personal integrity.

In general, violations of the Code of Academic Conduct shall initially be investigated and handled by the Dean of the College/School or their designee.  The following will be considered violations of the institution’s Code of Academic Conduct:

1. Cheating, in general, on any required academic activity. This includes, but is not limited to, collaborating with another student or students during an academic exercise without the consent of the instructor, claiming credit for the work or efforts of another without proper citation, failing to submit one’s own work or efforts, submitting the work of others as one’s own, attempting to have oneself represented by another person in group activities (including discussion forums and work groups), falsifying or creating records to complete an academic exercise, including clinical requirements (falsification of histories, physicals, laboratory tests, rotation records, etc.), internships, assignments, etc.;
2. Failure to appear before the University when called to offer testimony, and failure to testify fully and truthfully during any such appearances;
3. Misrepresenting facts for the purpose of gaining admission, enrollment, or academic advancement, or aiding another person in such misrepresentation;
4. Providing or receiving unauthorized assistance during any test or examination, representing or attempting to have oneself represented by another in the taking of an examination, preparation of a paper, or other academic activity;
5. Plagiarizing, or presenting the work of another as one’s own. This includes copying of another person’s ideas or words, interspersing one’s own words within another’s work, paraphrasing another’s work without appropriate attribution, fabricating sources of data, and other uses of another’s ideas or words without acknowledgement;
6. Misuse of University technology and networking resources;
7. Misusing confidential materials. It is an offense to knowingly or recklessly procure, distribute, or receive any confidential materials such as pending examinations, tests/quizzes, or assignments from any source without the proper, written consent of the course instructor.
8. Submitting academic work for which academic credit has already been earned, when such submission is made without instructor authorization;
9. Failure to report any of the above violations to the appropriate Dean, College/School Administrator, Vice President of Student Affairs or their designee.

Course Drop

Residential Programs

Course drops must be approved and submitted by the Program Chair and submitted prior to the last day to withdraw.

Online Programs

Students are encouraged to contact the academic program to review their academic plan and options when dropping a course.  To drop a course, the student must submit a Course Add/Drop Request.  A student is not considered officially dropped from a course until this form is submitted and a drop acknowledgement from the Registrar’s Office is received. The date of the drop will be the date the form is submitted.

Following is an outline of the grade assigned to students who drop a course. Questions concerning this policy should be directed to the Registrar’s Office.

Absence Policies

Short Term Absence

Students who anticipate missing class for a scheduled medical or personal event, or experience an unexpected emergency absence of 5 consecutive class days, must work directly with the Dean’s/Designated Office for approval and to make arrangements to make-up any work missed.  For program specific information please refer to instructions located in the school section of the catalog.

Extended Absence – Contract Required

For students who request consideration for a longer absence (defined as a period of time from 6 to 15 consecutive class days) the Extended Absence may be considered.

This request must first be approved by the individual program’s dean or designee. Please note a signed contract is required to complete the process. This contract provides structure, uniformity, and communication between student, faculty, program administration, and all Student Services departments.

The contract must be signed and approved by all parties at least 14 days prior to the anticipated absence, or within 48 hours of the onset of an emergency or unexpected circumstance.

No more than one extended absence contract is allowed within a 30-day period. Multiple requests for extended absence contacts within the same academic term will require additional review by the program Dean.

Any absence that will extend beyond the 15th day will require request for approval under the Student Leave Policy. If the official Student Leave request is not approved and the student does not return within the timeframe outlined in the Extended Absence Contract, the student will be administratively withdrawn from the program and must re-apply for admission.

The Extended Absence Request Form may be found at: https://www.atsu.edu/pdf/extendedabsencerequestform.pdf

Student Leave Policy

For students who anticipate being unable to participate in all course requirements or activities for a period of time beyond 15 consecutive class days, the student must petition for a leave. A Dean may petition on the student’s behalf for a leave for students who are experiencing personal or medical circumstances but refuse to petition for a leave and they believe it is in the best interest to go on leave when they have been determined to be a potential threat to themselves or others.

A leave may be requested for medical (physical or mental), including maternity, personal, military deployment (a copy of military orders must be provided), or other, which must be specified. When requesting a medical leave, the student must include documentation from their healthcare provider identifying the condition and anticipated time needed for the leave.

Leaves may be granted for up to 1 year. If the student does not return within the timeframe outlined in the leave, the student will be administratively withdrawn from the program and must re-apply for admission. Approval of leaves is subject to individual program policies. Students taking leave for medical reasons must provide a medical release prior to their return.

In order to return from the leave, a student must notify the Registrar’s Office of their intent to return in writing within a time frame specified by the Dean. The Registrar’s Office will then work with the program to facilitate the return to classes or clinical rotations.

The student will not be eligible for financial aid while on leave and no enrollment will be reported to defer student loans. A financial services appointment will be required prior to leave approval.

A leave notation will appear on the transcript for the term in which the leave began.

The Student Leave Request Form may be found at: https://www.atsu.edu/pdf/studentleaverequestform.pdf

Withdrawal from School

Residential Students requesting to withdraw from ATSU must first meet with the dean of their school. After meeting with their dean, they will meet with the Vice President for Student Affairs, the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs, or their designee(s). The Student Affairs Office will provide a link to an online withdrawal form for the student to complete. A student is not considered officially withdrawn until this form is submitted. The date of withdrawal will be the date the form is submitted.

Online program students are required to contact the academic program in order to obtain the web link for the online withdrawal form. A student is not considered officially withdrawn until this form is submitted. The date of withdrawal will be the date the form is submitted.

Reasons why a student might withdraw may include:

1. Medical Withdrawal—Students may have a medical reason that requires a withdrawal. Students may apply for re-admission. The Admissions Committee will determine acceptance, and the dean of the college/school will determine placement in the event of acceptance.
2. External Graduate Student Fellowship Withdrawal–Students who have completed the first two years of a residential program may request to leave ATSU to pursue educational opportunities, such as PhD programs or research fellowships, grants, etc. Advanced study withdrawal may be considered by the Dean of the College/School for a maximum of one year with renewal. Re-admission is guaranteed provided: (1) the student has remained in compliance with ATSU’s Codes of Academic Conduct and Behavioral Standards while on leave; (2) the student makes satisfactory academic progress at the sponsoring institution, and (3) the student meets the technical standards for admission. Applicants for an advanced study withdrawal will be required to supply appropriate documentation as determined by the University. Students seeking Advanced Study Withdrawal should initially meet with the Dean of the College/School to discuss the appropriateness of the request. For additional information and required paperwork, please see the External Graduate Student Fellowship Policy located in the ATSU section of the University Catalog.
3. Military Withdrawal–Students whose military obligations may necessitate a period of absence from the academic program when they are called to extended active duty. Re-admission is guaranteed pending proof of compliance with minimal technical standards and the Codes of Academic and Behavioral Conduct. A committee comprising of the Dean of the applicable school, the university CFO, and Vice President for Student Affairs will determine the appropriate actions needed when a Service member ceases their attendance due to a military service obligation. This decision will take into consideration the unique circumstances for each individual Service member. A copy of military deployment orders must be provided.
4. Personal Withdrawal–Students who wish to voluntarily leave ATSU for personal reasons. Students withdrawing from ATSU must apply for re-admission.
5. Administrative Withdrawal–A.T. Still University reserves the right to administratively withdraw students for non-compliance with University policy; non-attendance or participation as required by the student’s academic program; failure to fulfill financial, academic or legal obligations; or failure of the student to initiate the official withdrawal process.

Students who are administratively withdrawn will be notified of the action in writing by the University official initiating the withdrawal.

Violations of the University’s Code of Academic Conduct or Code of Behavioral Standards will not be addressed under the Administrative Withdrawal policy. Please refer to the University Student Handbook – Disciplinary Sanctions section for additional information.

Following is an outline of the grade assigned to students who withdraw. Questions concerning this policy should be directed to the Registrar’s Office.

Note: For residential cohort based programs, modules completed will have grade earned while modules not completed will receive W grade up to 60% of the registration period.

Academic Appeals

The individual professional and graduate programs of ATSU, through their faculty and established school procedures, retain principal responsibility for assessing student performance.  Disputes concerning unsatisfactory progress evaluations should be reconciled through the processes and procedures described by the school.  Appeals of academic decisions are as follows:

Course Grades

Students who wish to file an academic appeal concerning a course grade must do so by contacting the instructor/course director in writing within 14 calendar days from posting of the final grade in the CampusNexus Student Portal.

A student may appeal the decision of the instructor/course director to the academic chair for review if new or significant information is revealed after the instructor/course director’s decision or if the student believes that due process (the administration of justice according to established rules and principles) was not followed.  The appeal must be submitted to the academic chair in writing within 14 calendar days of receipt of the instructor/course director’s decision.

A student may appeal the decision of the academic chair for failing grades only to the Dean or Dean’s designee for review if new or significant information is revealed after the academic chair’s decision or if the student believes that due process was not followed.  The appeal must be submitted to the Dean or Dean’s designee in writing within 14 calendar days of receipt of the academic chair’s decision.

The final level of appeal for a failing course grade is the Dean of the school.  The decision reached by the Dean or Dean’s designee represents the highest level of due process available in the University for appealing a failing course grade.

All responses to appeals will be provided by ATSU within 7 calendar days.

Promotion and/or Dismissal Decisions

Each school outlines the process for appealing a promotion or dismissal decision.  The highest level of appeal within the school is the Dean or Dean’s designee.  Should a student wish to appeal a Dean’s decision regarding promotion or dismissal, a formal appeal may be made to the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs (SVPAA). 

The SVPAA’s review of such appeals, however, shall be limited to matters of process, procedure and fairness.

Grounds for Appeal to the SVPAA

A formal appeal may be brought to the SVPAA if based upon one or more of the following grounds:

1. Procedural error or violation of official policy during the decision-making process or judgments improperly based upon non-academic criteria.
2. New information not available for consideration when the promotion or dismissal decision was rendered and sustained during due process within the School or College, up to and including the Dean’s decision.

Process for Appeal to the SVPAA

1. The appeal must be in writing, and must be received by the SVPAA’s office within 7 calendar days of receipt of the Dean’s decision letter.
2. The appeal must be signed and clearly describe the decision in question and must state (from the list above) the specific grounds justifying the appeal.  All documentation supporting the appeal must be provided by the appellant at the time of written notification of appeal to the SVPAA.  If the grounds for appeal are other than those stated above, the appeal will not be considered and the student will be informed of such in writing within 7 calendar days of the receipt of the appeal.
3. The SVPAA may request additional information/documentation from the Dean and/or the appellant as he/she deems appropriate and, at his/her discretion, may interview the student and such other persons as the SVPAA desires.  Should the SVPAA request additional information or interviews, the decision deadline will be moved to 7 calendar days after receipt of requested information.
4. The SVPAA, after review and consideration of the materials submitted and any oral presentations by the parties, shall render the final decision and notify the student in writing within 7 calendar days.
5. The student may be allowed to register for courses during the pendency of the appeal, understanding that he/she will be dropped retroactively if the dismissal is upheld.

The decision reached by the SVPAA represents the highest level of due process available in the University for the appeal of promotion or dismissal decisions.

External Graduate Student Fellowship Policy

Fellowships can enhance the educational experience of graduate students by allowing them to pursue studies according to their own interests and needs. An approved external graduate student fellowship application must be on file prior to beginning the fellowship. No fellowships will be allowed to count retroactively. In order to apply for an approved external fellowship, a student must be in good academic standing and have completed the first two years of a residential program. All A.T. Still University policies apply while on fellowship. Fellowship applications are available in the Dean’s Office. A student may select from the following fellowship status options and must designate the selected option on the external fellowship application. Students are responsible for understanding all potential implications their selection may have on their academic status, financial aid, and associated charges.

Options:

1. Receive ATSU academic credit: Fellowship information must be supplied to the dean of the college or school who will determine ATSU fellowship credit hours based on a number of factors including: length of time in weeks, estimated contact hours, and fellowship deliverables. All fellowships receiving ATSU academic credit will receive a Pass/Fail grade. The dean may consider the fellowship as a substitution for elective requirements. Tuition will be charged based on program specific billing. Once credit hours have been determined, please contact the Controller’s Office for billing questions. Students receiving ATSU academic credit may be financial aid eligible. Once credit hours have been determined, please contact Financial Services for financial aid questions. Please check with your program to determine if the fellowship will have any impact to your estimated graduation date requiring an extended schedule.
2. No ATSU academic credit received but remains as an active ATSU student: Fellowship information must be supplied to the dean of the college or school who will approve the student’s time away and establish a deadline for re-enrollment in ATSU coursework. If the student does not return within the specified timeframe, the student will be moved to a withdrawn status. The student will be assessed a $100 retention fee per semester or a $50 retention fee per quarter or block. The student is enrolled in a 0 credit continuous graduate enrollment course and does not meet the minimum half-time enrollment requirements to be considered for financial aid. Please contact Financial Services for questions regarding loan repayment. If the student receives academic credit for the fellowship at another academic institution, the student may submit a transfer credit request to the dean of the college or school and the credit may be considered for transfer to ATSU and designated on the student’s ATSU transcript. The final transfer of credit will be processed upon re-enrollment in ATSU coursework. If the student does not receive academic credit for the fellowship, the student may submit fellowship information to the dean of the college or school and the dean may approve a notation on the ATSU transcript that the student was not enrolled for the specified period of time due to an external fellowship. The notation will appear upon re-enrollment in ATSU coursework.
3. No ATSU academic credit received and withdraws from ATSU: Fellowship information must be supplied to the Dean of the College/School who will approve the student’s time away and place the student in an inactive status. A timeframe for reenrollment will be stated and if the student does not return within the specified timeframe, the student will be moved to a withdrawn status. A student in an inactive status is not considered enrolled and cannot be considered for financial aid purposes. Please contact Financial Services for questions regarding loan repayment. If the student receives academic credit for the fellowship at another academic institution, the student may submit a Transfer Credit Application to the dean of the college or school and the credit may be considered for transfer to ATSU and designated on the student’s ATSU transcript. The final transfer of credit will be processed upon re-enrollment in ATSU coursework. If the student does not receive academic credit for the fellowship, the student may submit fellowship information to the dean of the college or school; and the dean may approve a notation on the ATSU transcript that the student was not enrolled for the specified period of time due to an external fellowship. The notation will appear upon re-enrollment in ATSU coursework. A student must formally withdraw by submitting the withdraw link (Please refer to the University Catalog – Withdrawal from School section for additional information).

The A.T. Still University External Graduate Student Fellowship Application must be completed and submitted for any of the above options to be put into effect.

Textbooks

There are differences between ATSU’s schools in the methods by which textbooks are secured. Due to these variables, students should communicate directly with their program for textbook information.

Student Records

Transcripts and Records

Permanent education records maintained by the University are the responsibility of the Registrar. Transcripts of academic records will contain only information regarding academic status. In cases where disciplinary action leads to the student’s ineligibility for re-enrollment into the University (suspension or expulsion), disciplinary action will become a part of the permanent academic record. Disciplinary records or information from such records will be made available to persons outside of the University only on the formal written request of the student involved or as otherwise allowed by law or regulation.

Academic records and financial aid records or information from such records will be used by University personnel who have legitimate responsibility for this student’s personal welfare and when necessary to the discharge of their official duties.

Financial assistance records will be maintained by the University only so long as the student (or graduate) has a promissory note or notes outstanding through a University loan program. Except for the purpose of official audits, financial assistance records will be made available to persons outside the University only upon the formal written request of the student (or graduate) involved or as otherwise allowed by law or legislation.

Student health records will be maintained by the University as prescribed by professional ethics and federal and state laws.

In compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), students will be permitted to review their educational records within 45 days of written request to the registrar. Also, students may restrict disclosure of directory information by completing a “Nondisclosure of Directory Information Form” available from the Registrar’s Office. The FERPA restriction will remain in effect until the Registrar’s Office is notified in writing to remove the restriction. The following items are designated as “Directory Information”: name, address, telephone number, email address, dates of attendance, class, previous institution(s) attended, major field of study, awards, full time/part time status, degree(s) conferred (including dates), class schedule/roster, and photographs.

In compliance with FERPA regulations, an official or unofficial transcript of record will be transmitted to a second or requesting party only on written request of the current or former student. The required transcript release may be authorized through the National Clearinghouse’s online transcript services website: http://www.getmytranscript.org. If a student who has completed more than one academic program at ATSU submits a transcript request, the transcript records for all programs will be issued.

All employees of ATSU are required to read and sign the ATSU Staff Handbook which addresses FERPA. Annually employees are asked to review FERPA and the online FERPA tutorial during the annual employee training. In addition, the Registrar’s Office will periodically send FERPA reminders and information through a variety of distribution methods.

Students who have not discharged their financial and other obligations to this University shall not have transcripts or recommendations made available until such obligations are met.

If the University has knowledge that a student or graduate is in default on a federal, state, outside agency, or institutional loan or service obligation, the University will withhold all official transcripts, National Board scores, and letters of recommendation for internships, residencies, employment, staff privileges, specialty certification, and licensing. Students who fail to satisfactorily discharge their obligations to the University prior to the date of graduation and who have failed to do so following graduation shall not have the privilege of having transcripts, other records, or recommendations sent to any institution or entity until such debts are paid.

Questions concerning records and grades should be brought to the Registrar’s Office, 660.626.2356 or registrarsoffice@atsu.edu.

Professional Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct

Copyright Infringement Policies and Sanctions (Including Computer Use and File Sharing)

The use of copyrighted materials for instructional purposes must be done in compliance with U.S. copyright law. For information on the correct use of copyrighted materials, please see the A.T. Still Memorial Library Copyright Policy for Course Readings and Reserves at http://guides.atsu.edu/ld.php?content_id=201180.

Unauthorized distribution of copyrighted materials, unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing, and illegal downloading or unauthorized distribution of copyrighted materials using the University’s information technology system, are considered violations of the institution’s Code of Academic Conduct (see the University Student Handbook). Students found guilty of such behavior are to subject to sanctions including, but not limited to, reprimand, probation, suspension, dismissal, disciplinary consultation, as well as other sanctions deemed appropriate by the University.

Unauthorized distribution of copyrighted materials, including unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing, may subject students to civil and criminal liabilities, which are summarized below.

Copyright infringement is the act of exercising, without permission or legal authority, one or more of the exclusive rights granted to the copyright owner under section 106 of the Copyright Act (Title 17 of the United States Code). These rights include the right to reproduce or distribute a copyrighted work. In the file-sharing context, downloading or uploading substantial parts of a copyrighted work without authority constitutes an infringement.

Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or “statutory” damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. For “willful” infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can, in its discretion, also asses costs and attorneys’ fees. For details, see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504, 505.

Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense. For more information, please see the website of the U.S. Copyright Office at www.copyright.gov.

Student Health Insurance

ATSU requires that all students enrolled in a RESIDENTIAL program maintain comprehensive health insurance coverage. Coverage must be maintained throughout the duration of enrollment. Failure to maintain continuous health insurance coverage may result in disciplinary action including possible suspension and/or dismissal.

There are no specific requirements for the health insurance policy. Students are given the flexibility to select a plan that best meets their healthcare and financial needs. Applying for health insurance, waiting for acceptance, and then waiting for coverage to begin often takes three weeks or longer to complete. Do not wait until the last minute to purchase health insurance coverage.

Students must notify the Registrar’s Office of any changes in health insurance providers by completing and submitting the Proof of Health Insurance Form that is located on the Registrar’s Office website at https://www.atsu.edu/department-of-student-affairs/registrars-office/#health-insurance.

Non-discrimination Policy

Prohibition of Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation (ATSU Policy #90-210)

Purpose

The purpose of this general order is to provide an employment and learning environment at A.T. Still University of Health Sciences (“ATSU” or “the University”) free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Discrimination, harassment, or retaliation by anyone–managers, administrators, supervisors, co-workers, students, or non-University personnel including clients, vendors, and suppliers–on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law is a violation of University policy and is prohibited by the University.

Policy

ATSU does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran status in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in its programs and activities. Dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault (e.g. non-consensual sexual contact/intercourse), stalking, harassment, and retaliation are forms of discrimination prohibited by ATSU.

Any person who witnesses or has knowledge of incidents of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or any other situation prohibited by this policy, should report such information to the persons listed in this general order. All reporting parties are protected from adverse action or retaliation under the provisions of this policy and by ATSU Policy No. 10-216: Whistleblower. Good faith reports, even if erroneous, will not result in punitive action. Deliberately false and/or malicious accusations of harassment are just as serious an offense as harassment and will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.

To report violations of ATSU’s nondiscrimination policies, request information, or for assistance filing a police report, contact the following persons:

Contact Information

Employees, members of the public, or beneficiaries should contact:

Arizona Campus
Tonya Fitch
Director of Human Resources
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
5850 East Still Circle
Mesa, AZ 85206-3618
480.219.6007
tfitch@atsu.edu

Missouri Campus
Donna Wyatt
Assistant Vice President of Human Resources
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
800 West Jefferson Street
Kirksville, Missouri 63501
660.626.2790
dbrown@atsu.edu

Students should contact:

Arizona Campus
Beth Poppre
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
5850 East Still Circle
Mesa, AZ 85206-3618
480.219.6026
bpoppre@atsu.edu

Missouri Campus
Lori Haxton
Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
800 West Jefferson Street
Kirksville, Missouri 63501
660.626.2236
lhaxton@atsu.edu

Alternately, discrimination complaints, reports, or questions may be directed to the ATSU Title IX Coordinator:

Joe Vincent
Title IX Coordinator
800 West Jefferson Street
Kirksville, MO 63501
660.626.2113
titleix@atsu.edu

ATSU Campus Security

Arizona Campus:
Emergency - 911 (off-campus)
Emergency -911 (on-campus)
Security Office - *7 (on-campus)
Non-Emergency Security - 480.341.9075
Mesa Police Department - 480.644.2211, opt. 2

Missouri Campus:
Emergency - 911 (off-campus)
Emergency -911 (on-campus)
Security Office - 33 (on-campus)
Non-Emergency Security - 660.626.2380/660.349.9513
Kirksville Police Department - 660.785.6945

On-campus confidential resources are available for students through:

ATSU Counseling Services

Arizona campus
Art Matthews
480.219.6170
amatthews@atsu.edu

Missouri campus
Thom Van Vleck
660.626.2424
tvanvleck@atsu.edu

To anonymously and confidentially report situations or behavior that compromises the University’s integrity, call our 24-hour service at 1-855-FRAUD-HL or use our secure online reporting form at http://www.fraudhl.com. Reference our Company ID (“ATSU”) when making a report.

Off-campus counseling and victim support is available through:
National Sexual Assault Hotline – 800.656.4673
Victim Support Services, Inc. (Missouri) – 660.665.1617
Mesa Victim Services Unit (Arizona) – 480.644.4075

Complaints regarding potential violations of Title IX, the Clery Act, or Title VII may be directed to:

Title IX and Clery Act:

U.S. Department of Education
One Petticoat Lane
1010 Walnut Street, Suite 320
Kansas City, MO 64106
816.268.0550
816.268.0550 fax
ocr.kansascity@ed.gov

Title VII:

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Robert A. Young Federal Building
1222 Spruce Street, Room 8.100
St. Louis, MO 63103
800.669.4000
314.539.7894 fax
800.669.6820 TTY

Anti-Harassment

1. Prohibited conduct includes unwelcome conduct, whether verbal, non-verbal, physical, or visual, that is based on or relates to an individual’s race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law, and
   1. Has the effect of creating a hostile environment;
   2. Has the effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or student’s performance; or
   3. Otherwise adversely affects an individual’s employment or education opportunities.
2. A hostile environment is any situation in which there is harassing conduct sufficiently severe, pervasive, or objectively offensive to alter the conditions of employment or limit, interfere with, or deny educational benefits or opportunities, from both a subjective (the alleged victim’s) and an objective (a reasonable person standard) viewpoint.
3. The determination of whether an environment is “hostile” will be based upon the circumstances, including:
   1. The frequency of the conduct;
   2. The nature and severity of the conduct;
   3. Whether the conduct was physically threatening;
   4. Whether the conduct was humiliating;
   5. The effect of the conduct on the alleged victim’s mental or emotional state;
   6. Whether the conduct was directed at more than one person;
   7. Whether the conduct arose in the context of other discriminatory conduct;
   8. Whether the conduct unreasonably interfered with the alleged victim’s educational or work performance;
   9. Whether the statement is an utterance of an epithet which engenders offense in an employee or student, or offends by mere discourtesy or rudeness
   10. Whether the speech or conduct deserves the protections of academic freedom or the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
4. Examples of prohibited conduct include but are not limited to: jokes, epithets, slurs, insults, negative stereotyping, written or graphic material (including emails), or any threatening or intimidating acts, that denigrate or show hostility toward an individual and that relate to race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.
5. Prohibited behavior also includes any unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature such as sexual advances and propositions; requests for sexual favors; sexual jokes, comments, suggestions, or innuendo; foul or obscene gestures or language; display of foul, obscene, or offensive printed or visual material; unwelcome physical contact of a sexual nature, such as bodily contact with the breast, groin, or buttocks; patting, pinching, hugging, or brushing against another individual’s body; and any other unwelcome verbal, non-verbal, physical or visual conduct of a sexual nature where:
   1. Submission to such conduct is an explicit or implicit condition of employment or education; or
   2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for employment-related or academic-related decisions such as a promotion, discharge, performance evaluation, pay adjustment, discipline, work assignment, or any other condition of employment or career development or academic development; or
   3. Such conduct has the effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or academic performance or creating an intimidating, abusive, or offensive working or educational environment.
6. Non-consensual sexual contact and non-consensual sexual intercourse are explicitly prohibited by this policy.
   1. Non-consensual sexual contact is any unwelcome intentional sexual touching, however slight, with any object, by a man or woman upon a man or woman.
   2. Non-consensual sexual intercourse is any unwelcome sexual intercourse, however slight, with any object, by a man or woman upon a man or woman, without consent and/or by force.
   3. Consent is clear, knowing, and voluntary. It may be given by words or actions, but silence itself cannot be interpreted as consent. Consensual words or actions create mutually understood, clear permission regarding willingness to engage in sexual activity.
   4. Force is the use of physical violence and/or imposing on someone physically to gain sexual access. Force also includes threats, intimidation, and coercion that overcome resistance or produce consent.
   5. Sexual activity with someone whom one knows to be, or based on the circumstances should reasonably have known to be, mentally or physically incapacitated, constitutes a violation of this policy.
7. This policy applies universally to all University employees and students in their dealings with each other and to all University employees and students in their dealings with third parties. Any University employee or student who violates this policy will be subject to corrective action up to and including termination or dismissal. University employees or students may be disciplined, up to and including termination or dismissal, for engaging in behavior that is disrespectful, disruptive, or otherwise prohibited by this policy, regardless of whether that behavior constitutes harassment prohibited by law.

Discrimination, harassment, and retaliation grievance procedures

1. Any individual who feels he/she has witnessed or experienced behavior prohibited by this policy, or who has questions, concerns, or information regarding violations of this policy, should immediately report the circumstance(s) or incident(s) to his or her supervisor or one of the contact persons described in this policy.
2. Upon receipt of a report of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, the University will conduct a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation, evaluating all relevant information and documentation relating to the report.
   1. If a report is made, an ATSU investigator will meet with the reporting party to discuss the allegations and/or circumstances. The objectives of this initial meeting will be to reduce the report to writing, stop the harassment, prevent its recurrence, and take steps to remedy its effects in the interim.
   2. If, following this meeting, it is determined no potential policy violations exist, the investigator will produce a report stating such conclusion, including all elements of the initial meeting and interim remedial steps taken.
   3. Interim remedial steps may include course or work adjustments, no contacts orders, temporary suspension of the alleged perpetrator, or any other reasonable measure to facilitate the end and prevention of harassment.
   4. If, after an initial meeting between an ATSU investigator and a reporting party, it is determined any part of this policy may have been violated, a full investigation will be conducted. Investigators will be appropriately trained and will not have a conflict of interest or bias against the reporting party or respondent. Such investigation will be concluded promptly, typically within ten business days of the receipt of the report by the appropriate personnel. Investigations may, however, take longer based on a number of factors and variables, such as: the nature and detail of the notice received, the complexity of the investigation, and the cooperation level of the parties and witnesses. In almost all cases, investigations will be completed within sixty business days, though this timeline may be extended for appropriate cause as determined by the investigator.
   5. The parties will be regularly updated as to the projected timeline for completion of the investigation. During the process, the reporting party and respondent will be given timely notice of any meetings at which either or both may be present, and will have equal opportunity to present witnesses, provide evidence, and have others present, including an advisor of their choice. The reporting party, respondent, and appropriate officials will be given timely and equal access to information to be used during informal and formal disciplinary meetings and hearings.
   6. Investigators use the “preponderance of evidence” (more likely than not) standard when determining whether or not there is a violation.
   7. Simultaneous written notice to the parties describing the findings of the investigation, including determination of responsibility and sanctions, and available appeal procedures, will occur within five business days of the completion of the investigation.
   8. Sanctions for employees may include a disciplinary warning to be added to the employee’s permanent file, probation, suspension with or without pay, and/or termination.
   9. Sanctions for students may include reprimand, a disciplinary warning to be added to the student’s permanent file, probation, suspension, and/or dismissal.
   10. The parties will have the right to appeal within five business days of receiving the findings. If the appeal is not timely or substantively eligible, the original findings and sanctions will stand, and the decision will be final. If the appeal has standing, the documentation will be forwarded for consideration. The party requesting the appeal must show error as the original findings and sanctions are presumed to have been decided reasonably and appropriately. The only grounds for appeal are:
   11. A procedural (or substantive) error that significantly impacted the outcome of the hearing (e.g. substantiated bias, material deviation from established procedures).
   12. To consider new evidence, unavailable during the original hearing or investigation, that could substantially impact the original findings or sanctions. A summary of this new evidence and its potential impact must be included.
   13. The sanctions imposed are substantially disproportionate to those previously imposed for similar violations. Right to appeal under this provision is for the responding party only. No other party has the right to appeal sanctions.
   14. Upon receipt of a written appeal, an appellate panel consisting of three members of the ATSU Equity Grievance Pool (EGP) will be selected to rule on the appeal.
   15. EGP members are appointed by the ATSU President.
   16. EGP members include the Title IX administration team, two faculty members nominated by ATSU Faculty Senate, two students nominated by the University Student Association, and two (2) staff members nominated by the University Staff Council.
   17. The appellate panel will rule on the appeal within fifteen business days. Any extension of time beyond fifteen business days will be communicated to both parties along with an updated timeframe for the ruling.
   18. Any sanctions imposed at the conclusion of an investigation will remain in effect during the appeals process.
   19. In the event an appeal is upheld by the appellate panel, the panel’s report will be submitted to the investigators for redetermination based on the panel’s findings. Written notice to the parties describing the revised findings of the investigation, including determination of responsibility and sanctions, will occur within five business days of receipt of the appellate panel report.

Anti-retaliation

1. The University will not retaliate against, nor permit retaliation against, any individual who opposes discrimination or harassment, makes a complaint of discrimination or harassment, and/or participates or cooperates in a discrimination or harassment investigation, proceeding, or hearing.
2. Examples of retaliation:
   1. After a whistleblowing incident, an employee may suddenly find they are being assigned to different duties or even moved into a different position. The new role often involves duties that are below the employee’s capabilities or even demeaning in nature. The supervisor may make the new role as difficult as possible by harshly critiquing results or implementing unreasonable time constraints for completing projects. The supervisor may also limit access to resources the employee needs to complete her assigned tasks.
   2. Employers may retaliate by excluding the employee from normal activities, attempting to create a sense of isolation. A supervisor may refuse to invite the employee to an important meeting or a social activity such as a group luncheon or outing. She may also exclude the employee from training sessions that could enhance the employee’s job performance or opportunity for advancement. Exclusion can occur by relocating the employee to an area where she has little contact with other workers.

Amnesty for drug/alcohol possession and consumption violations

1. ATSU strongly encourages students and employees to report potential violations of this policy. Therefore, good faith reporters to appropriate authorities regarding potential violations will not face University disciplinary action for their own drug/alcohol possession or consumption in connection with the reported incident.
2. Amnesty for persons making a report in good faith does not include substance abuse counseling and/or rehabilitation which may be necessary for employees or students with clinical responsibilities or patient contact.

Responsibility

1. The assistant vice president of human resources and the director of human resources are responsible for responding to and monitoring all complaints of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation from employees.
2. The vice president for student affairs and the associate vice president for student affairs are responsible for responding to and monitoring all complaints of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation from students, members of the public, or beneficiaries.
3. The Title IX coordinator is responsible for all sex- and gender-based harassment and discrimination awareness, prevention, training, monitoring, reporting, investigation, and resolution at ATSU.

A. T. Still University’s policy prohibiting discrimination, harassment, and retaliation (ATSU Policy #90-210) may also be found at: www.atsu.edu/prohibition-of-discrimination-harassment-and-retaliation.