Academic Rights Appeals

Administrative Regulation - Due Process (Interim), part B, specifies that in instances when a formal hearing is not required by this regulation, the University will provide due process and an opportunity for that student to be heard before a neutral party. The exact procedures for this notice and opportunity to be heard will vary depending upon context.  The following provides the procedures for the appeal of a violation of a student's rights, including course grade appeals.

1. The student must first speak with the course instructor (or relevant University official) to discuss the issue and provide supporting documentation for their perspective, if any.
2. If the issue remains unresolved, the student must ask the Program Director or Department Chair for a meeting.  If the department has an established process for resolving academic matters, the student will attempt to resolve the issue through that process.
3. If, after meeting with the course instructor and department chair (or attempting to resolve the issue through the departmental process), the issue remains unresolved, the student may request a meeting the Academic Ombud to share their perspective.  The Ombud will attempt to resolve the issue.  If the issue remains unresolved, the student has the right to appeal to the Hearing Panel.
4. If a student decides to appeal, the student will submit a letter to the Academic Ombud describing their perspective of the issue.  The Ombud will request a response from the appropriate University official.
5. The Academic Ombud will write a memorandum stating whether the appeal has merit, forward the case to the Hearing Panel, and provide the student and instructor with the case documents.
   1. If the appeal has merit, the Hearing Panel will meet and invite the student and appropriate University official to attend.
   2. If the appeal does not have merit, the student has 30 days to appeal the Ombud's no merit determination to the Hearing Panel.
      1. If the student appeals, the Hearing Panel will review the case documents to decide whether to hear the case or allow the Ombud's determination to stand.  Should they determine the case should be heard, a hearing will be scheduled.
6. The decision of the Hearing Panel is final.  Students and appropriate University officials will be notified of their decision.