Policies & Procedures

Adjusting Without Proper Supervision

Adjusting Without Proper Supervision Policy AS.015  

Georgia law provides that all students who perform chiropractic tasks shall be under supervision as follows:

” … Nothing in this Chapter shall be construed to prohibit the performance of any chiropractic task by a student enrolled in an approved chiropractic college when such student has successfully completed at least one academic year of schooling therein and when such task is performed under the supervision and direction of an authorized instructor duly licensed to practice chiropractic in this state.” OFFICIAL CODE OF GEORGIA ANNOTATED Section 43-9-17.

Performance of chiropractic tasks, on-or-off campus, shall be done only under the supervision and with the prior approval of Life University’s licensed clinical faculty, or other licensed Doctors of Chiropractic specifically designated by an appropriate Life University official to supervise student intern care.

Adjusting without proper supervision: Any faculty member who observes students performing chiropractic adjustments while not in a scheduled classroom or clinical setting and not under the supervision and direction of a Doctor of Chiropractic, licensed in Georgia and designated by Life University to supervise care, should secure the names of the students involved, reduce all relevant data to writing, and deliver copies of the letter to the Dean of Clinics and the Director of Conflict Resolution and Accountability for appropriate action. Such prohibited activity may also lead to prosecution, litigation and or dismissal from school.

The casual “observation” by a faculty member of a student engaging in chiropractic tasks when carried out in informal or social settings is not approved supervision or direction. Any faculty member who aids, abets or conducts such informal activity will be subject to disciplinary action, including termination. 

us, shall be done only under the supervision and with the prior approval of Life University’s licensed clinical faculty, or other licensed Doctors of Chiropractic specifically designated by an appropriate Life University official to supervise student intern care.

Adjusting without proper supervision: Any faculty member who observes students performing chiropractic adjustments while not in a scheduled classroom or clinical setting and not under the supervision and direction of a Doctor of Chiropractic, licensed in Georgia and designated by Life University to supervise care, should secure the names of the students involved, reduce all relevant data to writing and deliver copies of the letter to the Dean of Clinics, Dean of the College of Chiropractic, and the Director of Conflict Resolution and Accountability for appropriate action. Such prohibited activity may also lead to prosecution, litigation and/or dismissal from school.

The casual “observation” by a faculty member of a student engaging in chiropractic tasks when carried out in informal or social settings is not approved supervision or direction. Any faculty member who aids, abets or conducts such informal activity will be subject to disciplinary action, including termination.

Admissions Statute of Limitations

Offer of Admission Acceptance and Confirmation

Offer of Admission Acceptance and Confirmation Policy ER.002  

An applicant admitted to Life University is expected to enroll in the academic program and the quarter for which they have applied and been admitted.  The admitted student may request to defer their start term within 3 quarters from the quarter for which they were originally accepted. For example, an admitted student for Winter 2018 could submit a request to defer their start term to Spring 2018, Summer 2018, or Fall 2018.

• The deferral request must be submitted in writing to the Office of Enrollment (Admissions) a minimum of 30 days prior to the start of the quarter for which they were originally admitted. The request can be submitted by email to the student’s enrollment representative via email or mail, specifying their name and original term of admission and specifying the term for which they wish to defer their enrollment as well as a brief description of the reason for the deferral.
• Requests received after this timeframe are ineligible for consideration, and a new application must be submitted as well as any required documents and/or application processing fees.
• An admitted applicant failing to give notice and secure prior approval of a deferral will be required to reapply for admission.
•  If a request to defer an admission is considered and accepted, the student will be held to the admission standards in effect during their actual entrance date.  Life University reserves the right to request any or all of the required admission materials, updated credentials or documentation, and/or application processing fees for reapplication.
• In order to accept an offer of admission, confirm plans to enroll, and reserve a seat in the entering class, admitted students are required to submit the applicable enrollment deposit before the start of the term. (The required and established academic level deposit amounts are posted on the related admissions website.)
• The enrollment deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable within 30 days of the quarter’s start date. Please note that the full amount of the enrollment deposit will be credited toward the student’s first quarter tuition bill.
• The refund or transfer request can be submitted by email to the student’s enrollment specialist via email or mail, specifying their name and original term of admission and specifying the term for which they wish to defer their enrollment or their refund request as well as a brief description of the reason for the deferral or the refund.
• Late applications (completed after published deadlines) that are considered for and earn admission may be required to submit the enrollment deposit within 7 days of the admission notification.

Animals on Campus

Animals On Campus Policy SS.002  

All leash laws in Cobb County are enforced on our campus. Particularly, dogs are not allowed on the campus, to include the athletic fields, track facilities or in the buildings. Service and Comfort animals are allowed on campus in accordance with ADA guidelines.

Dogs can be taken on the 5 miles of running trail for the purposes of personal security, but the dog must be on a leash and the owner must clean up after them. The University reserves the right to remove animals from campus.

Assemblies

The purpose of the Chiropractic Assembly program is to advance the professional and personal development of chiropractic students in the areas of chiropractic philosophy, science, and professional issues, to inform students of relevant developments within the University and the profession in general, and to present guest speakers to the student body.

Three Chiropractic Assemblies are presented per quarter. Students receive 2 points for live attendance, and 1 point for video and quiz completion on Blackboard. A score of 6 points is needed to receive a Pass.

· No more than two assemblies can be done on Blackboard in one quarter.

· Students choosing to view a missed assembly on Blackboard must watch the video from the current registered quarter (1point) and an additional video from the archive (1point) along with completing the corresponding quizzes for each video.

· Access to the archived video(s) and quizzes should be requested via email sent to Assembly@life.edu.

· All assembly requirements must be completed by Sunday of week 9 at 11:59 pm.

Reminder: Complete the assignments early as technology issues will not be an acceptable excuse for missing the deadline. Emails are addressed M-F 8am- 4pm.

DCP students are required to complete 14 quarters of Chiropractic Assembly (or its equivalent) to graduate. There are several other courses that also count toward meeting the 14 quarters of Chiropractic Assembly graduation requirement, including the National Board Prep Assemblies, and the Immersion (out-of-state) PEAK courses.

Make-up assemblies (with an essay component) can be requested through an academic advisor via email sent to Assembly@life.edu should an entire quarter of assemblies be missed

Minor on Campus

Minor on Campus Policy SA.041 

This policy will address the presence of minors on campus in these primary areas:

1. As visitors in the Workplace
2. As visitors in the Classroom
3. As patients in the Clinic
4. As visitors in the Residence Halls
5. As attendees to residential or commuter camps/conferences held on campus

Minors as Visitors in the Workplace

Any visit involving minors, other than a brief, occasional visit by a family member, requires appropriate supervisory, department administrative, or faculty instructor approval. Minors are not permitted in high-risk nor high-traffic areas except where specifically allowed otherwise by university policy and/or approval.

High-risk areas are defined as areas particularly subject or exposed to a danger likely to result in harm or injury. Examples of high-risk areas include, but are not limited to:

  Food preparation areas

  Areas containing power tools or machinery with exposed moving parts or rotating equipment (mechanical rooms)

  Areas with heavy-duty or other motorized equipment

  Laboratories or specialized work areas that include chemical hazards, biological hazards, radioactive hazards, flammables, explosives, compressed gases, sharp objects, lasers, research animals, electrical hazards, hazardous wastes, or other environmental hazards

  Other high-risk areas (rooftops, construction zones, etc.)

High-traffic areas are defined as areas where there is a large volume of people, busy areas, heavily frequented areas, or well-trodden areas. Examples of high-traffic areas include, but are not limited to:

 Departmental or office front desk areas
 

Minors as Visitors in the Classroom

Minors are not allowed in the classroom as it may interfere with instruction and be a distraction to other students. Students have the option of participating synchronously, asynchronously, or remotely rather than bring a minor to class.

Minors as Patients in the Clinic

Unsupervised children are not permitted in the clinical facilities at any time. Certain restrictions have been instituted for safety and orderly clinic operations. A child, who is disruptive and behaving poorly, may be asked to leave by the Clinic Director or his/her designee.

Individuals under the age of eighteen (18) may not become patients of the Life University Chiropractic Clinics without the written consent of a parent or legal guardian.

Children age fifteen (15) and under must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian on each visit to the Life Chiropractic Clinics. If it is impossible for a parent or guardian to accompany the child, another individual may be designated by the parent or guardian to accompany the child to the clinic for services other than examinations, re-examinations and report of findings. The designated representative must be eighteen years of age or older and may not be a student in Life University’s College of Chiropractic unless the student is the parent or legal guardian. This individual must present a notarized statement from the parent or guardian so designating him/her as the representative of the parent or legal guardian.

See Life University Campus Center for Health and Optimum Performance (Level 1 Clinics) Intern Handbook for policies related to minors in the clinic.

Minors as Visitors in the Residence Halls

Minor visitors may be allowed, subject to applicable University policies and the exceptions outlined herein, in student residential housing floors or rooms, but must be escorted at all times by their resident host or by their parent/legal guardian.

For visits and/or overnight stays, the resident host is responsible for the minor guest and must accompany them at all times. Residents are not permitted to host minor guests under the age of 16 for visits unless the guests are siblings or children of the resident and are subject to the published overnight guest policy. If the minor guest is unrelated to the resident host and is under age 16, the minor’s parent or guardian must also be present at all times. Residents are not permitted to host overnight guests under the age of 16; requests for exceptions for siblings of the resident may be reviewed and must be approved 24 hours in advance of the stay by the Office of Housing and Residence Life. Residents who violate these policies may be referred to the Office of Conflict Resolution and Accountability.

See Life University Community Living Standards for policies related to resident guests and overnight visitation.

Minors Attending Camps/Conferences on Campus

All programs serving minors held on Life University campus facilities or utilizing Life University’s name or resources in any way must operate under the administrative purview of a Life University sponsoring unit. All programs must be reviewed before the program activities involving minors occur. All sponsoring units must submit compliance and risk management documentation related to the camp/conference to the Senior Director of Student Affairs Auxiliary Services for review prior to the camp/conference start date.

For residential camps, please see Resident Camper Policy SS.023.

Background Investigation for Authorized Individuals

All Authorized Individuals with primary responsibilities involving the direct interaction with minors are required to have a current satisfactory background investigation on record with Life University at the time of hire and/or involvement with minors.

Mandatory Training

Program Sponsors are responsible for ensuring that all Authorized Individuals who will have direct contact with minors complete all required and necessary training prior to having contact with activities involving minors on Life University property. The Program Sponsor is responsible for keeping a certificate of completion on file for all Authorized Individuals.

All Authorized Individuals must complete Life University approved training prior to having contact with minors. The training will include, but is not limited to:

 Mandatory reporting requirements
 Responsibilities and expectations
 Safety and security procedures
 Housing policies and protocols (for residential camps)

Third-Party organizations must agree to conduct training for their staff/counselors and inform them of the university notification procedures in the event of an emergency. They must also provide proof that all Authorized Individuals, employees, contractors, or agents charges with the supervision of minors for the event at any Life University facility have passed a background check.

Committees

Committees are organized to facilitate the work of the University. Committees are recommending bodies and report their recommendations to various administrative offices, the Faculty Senate, Staff Council or Student Council. In addition, committees may form and charge ad hoc committees, or task groups, for a specific purpose or duty outside of the existing committee structure.

From time to time students will be asked to serve on these committees in a temporary, permanent, advisory or determinative role at the request of the respective committee chair. Those students are usually recommended or appointed by the Student Council upon request from the chairperson of the respective committee.

Computer Use Policy

Computer Use Policy IT.001  

Primary Principles

Freedom of expression, personal responsibility, and an open environment to pursue scholarly inquiry and the sharing of information are encouraged, supported and protected at Life University. These values lie at the core of the academic community and serve to further the mission of the University.

Concomitant with free expression are the personal obligations of each member of our community to use computer resources responsibly, ethically and in a manner that accords to both the law and the rights of others. The campus depends first upon a spirit of mutual respect and an open community of responsible users.

Guidelines

These guidelines set forth standards for responsible and acceptable use of Life University computer resources. They supplement existing Life University policies, agreements, state, federal laws and regulations. Computer resources include host systems, Life University- sponsored computers, workstations and devices, web-hosted information, communication networks, software and files.

Computing resources are provided to support the academic research, instructional and administrative objectives of the University. These resources are extended for the sole use of University faculty, staff and students, and other authorized users to accomplish tasks related to the user’s status at Life University, and consistent with Life University’s mission.

Theft or damage, intentional or otherwise, of LIFE’s computer equipment, hardware, or software should be immediately reported to the IT Department.

Users are responsible for safeguarding their identification (ID) codes (Logins and Passwords) and for using them for their intended purposes only. Each user is responsible for all transactions made under the authorization of his or her (Logins and Passwords), and for all network activity originating from his or her data jack or computer at the time and date used. Students should never share their student ID, usernames, or passwords with others. Students are also advised to use a unique password for university systems and not to use the same passwords they use for personal, financial, or social websites and services.

Violation of these guidelines constitutes unacceptable use of computer resources and may violate other University policies and/or state and federal law. Suspected or known violations should be reported to the IT Department. Violation may result in revocation of computer resource privileges, employee or student disciplinary action, or legal action.

User Responsibilities

The following provisions describe conduct prohibited under these guidelines:

• Altering system software or hardware configurations or disrupting or interfering with the delivery or administration of computer resources.
• Attempting to access or accessing another’s account, private files, or email without the owner’s permission; or misrepresenting oneself as another individual in electronic communication.
• Installing, copying, distributing or using software in violation of: copyright and/or software agreements, applicable state and federal laws, or the principle described in Using Software. Guides to ethical and legal use of software for members of the Academic Community are available on the Life University Library website under Library 101-Section 1, Copyright Education.
• Using computer resources to engage in conduct which interferes with other’s use of shared computer resources and/or the activities of other users, including studying, teaching, research and University administration.
• Using computer resources for commercial or profit-making purposes without written authorization from the University.
• Failing to adhere to individual department or unit lab and system policies, procedures and protocols. Allowing access to computer resources by unauthorized users.
• Using computer resources for illegal activities. Criminal and illegal use may include obscenity, child pornography, threats, harassment, theft and unauthorized access.
• Life students’ network access accounts are provided primarily for official communications from the University and are not provided for private or personal use. Incidental personal use is permitted, as long as those uses do not violate: the law; restrictions that derive from the Life’s tax-exempt status; Life’s policies, ordinances, rules, and guidelines; and contracts the Life has made.
• Life students’ network access accounts may not be used for commercial or profit-making purposes unrelated to Life University business. Students must not use their Life student email accounts for any commercial use for personal profit, including publishing their own or other students’ email addresses for commercial activity contacts. Users must not use their Life student email accounts for any commercial use, unless authorized in writing by Life administrativeofficials.
• Violation of these rules can result in termination of the student’s Life network access accounts.
• The Life Directory is provided as a service to the faculty, staff, and students of Life University. The email addresses contained in the Life Directory are not intended for general public communication, for private use, or for personal use. The email addresses contained in this Directory may not be used for commercial or profit-making purposes unrelated to University business. Anyone who obtains email addresses from this Directory must not send bulk email or emails to more than ten (10) recipients in this Directory unless each addressee has given written consent to be included on the list or the sender has received written authorization from Life administrative personnel.

Administration

The maintenance, operation and security of computer resources require responsible Life University personnel to monitor and access the system. To the extent possible in the electronic environment and a public setting, a user’s privacy will be preserved. Nevertheless, that privacy is subject to the other applicable state and federal laws, and the needs of the University to meet its administrative, business and legal obligations.

Diploma and Commencement  Policy

Diploma & Commencement 

Dress Code Policy

Dress Code Policy AS.003  

Students at Life University should remember that they are in the process of becoming professional individuals in their respective fields. As students’ progress, they are encouraged to develop a professional demeanor, which encompasses their individuality. Since an important aspect of a professional image is dress, a dress code has been drawn up to provide parameters within which each student is free to express individual tastes.

1. The restrictions are few:
2. Shoes and shirts must be worn at all times,
3. Students should be modest in their attire,
4. Hair should be well kept, and
5. Personal hygiene must be kept up at all times

Alcohol and Policy Statements

In discharge of its responsibility to inform and educate its students and employees with regard to the law regarding alcohol and drugs and to assist them in their strict compliance and obedience with federal and state laws, Life University herewith sets forth its policies regarding the use, consumption, possession or sale of alcoholic beverages and prohibited drug substances. These policies are in accordance with Federal regulations under the Drug-Free Workplace Act and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act.

Alcohol and Drug Related Health Risks

National statistics reveal that the leading causes of death among the 18-to-23-year-old population are alcohol-related accidents, alcohol-related homicides and alcohol-related suicides. A high percentage of campus disorderly conduct,disruptive behavior, property destruction or academic failures, on a national level is alcohol related. In response to these disturbing facts, the Georgia Legislature has provided by law certain measures to reduce those dangers associated with alcohol abuse, including statutory provisions that no person below the age of 21 years may use, purchase or possess alcoholic beverages.

Life University supports and endorses these provisions of state law and insists on strict compliance with these statutes by its students, staff, faculty and administrators at all levels. Life University also endorses the dissemination of educational materials that emphasize the problems associated with alcohol and drug abuse.

Controlled Substances Abuse And Recovery Assistance Policy

Controlled Substance Abuse And Recovery Assistance Policy SS.003  

Life University recognizes chemical dependency as a treatable illness. Students who are so diagnosed shall receive the same consideration and opportunity for treatment that is extended to those with other types of illnesses.

Life University ‘s concern with chemical dependency is limited to its effects upon the individual ‘s performance. For purposes of this policy, chemical dependency is defined as an illness in which the consumption of mood-altering chemicals repeatedly interferes with the performance of a student or adversely affects his/her health.

All persons seeking assistance on a voluntary basis will be confidentially referred to the Student Success Center(SSC) for assistance. The SSC can provide individuals with information regarding services available for recovery and will offer referral to the appropriate agencies or institutions as deemed necessary.

Use, possession, or selling of illegal substances on campus will be grounds for expulsion from Life University as a student. A fair hearing as part of the Student Conduct Process (as outlined in the student and faculty handbooks) is afforded in all cases.

The purpose of this policy is to encourage recognition, early intervention and subsequent support for chemically dependent students of Life University.

Life University Responsible Action Protocol (RAP)

Life University considers the health and safety of its students a priority concern. As members of the LIFE family, students are expected to take active steps to care for one another. The University is aware that students may not want to report suspected violations or seek help for other students for fear they may face adjudication for alcohol and/or drug violations themselves. In an effort to create a culture of care and encourage students to report violations or seek emergency help for others, the Responsible Action Protocol has been created.

The Responsible Action Protocol (RAP) provides alternative resolution options for students who seek help for other students in the following ways:

• Seeking help for self or others related to alcohol and/or other drug related emergencies.
• Reporting instances of sexual assault and sexual misconduct to the University (this applies to victims of sexual assault/misconduct and those who may have been witness to such an incident).

For alcohol or drug related emergencies

• The student who contacts an appropriate resource (i.e. law enforcement or University staff) on behalf of a drugged or intoxicated student must remain with that student until help arrives.
• The student seeking assistance for a drugged or intoxicated student must provide law enforcement or staff his/her name when they call.
• The student must complete a meeting with the Director of Student Conduct within five business days of the initial report and agree to complete any additional assessments or treatment requested by the Director. Failure to do so will result in the RAP being revoked and may result in charges being filed.
• The RAP does not apply to individuals experiencing an alcohol or drug related emergency who are found by law enforcement or University Personnel (Resident Assistants, staff, faculty, campus safety officers, etc.).
• The RAP can only be enacted once per student. Any further alcohol or drug related incidents may result in charges being filed with the Director of Student Conduct.
• The University reserves the right to adjudicate any case in which the violations are egregious.

For incidents of sexual assault or sexual misconduct

• Students reporting being a victim of sexual assault or sexual misconduct will not face disciplinary action for being under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
• Students who witness instances of sexual assault or sexual misconduct and report these instances to the University will not face disciplinary action for being under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
• Students should be aware that the Responsible Action Protocol does not prevent or dismiss action by local, state and federal authorities. 

Drug-Free Schools, Community and Workplace Policy

Drug Free Schools, Community and Workplace Policy UL.003  

Pursuant to the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1986, and the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, the University has adopted and implemented a program to prevent the use of illicit drugs and alcohol. The policy will be reviewed and amended as necessary. Employees will be apprised of changes.

The University is committed to the health and wellbeing of its staff and other people who receive University services. The University has a vested interest in the welfare of its employees, who administer and operate the University’s programs of education, research and service, but also serves as well as interest in serving and promoting the advancement of the general health of our society.

Substance and alcohol abuse are dangerous to your health. The use of alcohol, non-prescription drugs and abuse of prescription drugs in the workplace may affect an employee’s ability to perform satisfactorily, the performance and wellbeing of other employees and students and the University ‘s ultimate function and reputation. For these reasons and others, the University requires the participation of all employees and students in maintaining a drug-free school and work environment.

The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of a controlled substance (prescription or nonprescription) and alcohol are prohibited, including all University properties, functions, business and vehicles.

Alcoholic beverages will be permitted at University events only with the permission of the President or his designee and notification of Campus Safety. Advertising of the event will not include specific references to the fact that alcoholic beverages will be provided. Student events require identification confirming the individual is of legal drinking age.

At any event where alcohol is served, non-alcoholic beverages must be continuously available in equal or greater quantity and food must be available as well. The serving of alcoholic beverages must stop at least 45 minutes before the scheduled end of the activity and alternative transportation should be provided for any individual in attendance that has overindulged in alcohol.

Any employee or student worker who is convicted of a criminal violation involving illegal drugs or alcohol in the workplace is required to notify the Department of Human Resources within five days of the conviction.

Life University is committed to providing a safe work environment and to fostering the wellbeing and health of its employees. That commitment is jeopardized when any University employee illegally uses drugs on or off the job, comes to work under their influence, possesses, distributes or sells drugs in the workplace, or abuses alcohol on the job. Therefore, the University has established the following policy:

Violations

Employees and student workers who are suspected of violating this policy on alcohol and drugs may be suspended without pay immediately pending an investigation. If the investigation results in a determination that a violation of this policy on alcohol and drugs has occurred, the violator shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination and referral to legal authorities for prosecution.

The University also offers resource information on various other means of employee assistance in our community, including but not limited to drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs. Employees are encouraged to use this resource file, which is located in the Human Resources office.

Alcohol Policy: Legal Requirements:

• The legal alcohol drinking age in Georgia is 21 effective September 30, 1986. The purchase, possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited to those under the drinking age. It is also unlawful to serve alcoholic beverages to those under the drinking age.
• No person under the legal drinking age shall misrepresent his or her age or identity in any manner whatsoever; including, but not limited to, using any false identification; for the purpose of purchasing or obtaining any alcoholic beverage.
• Alcohol may not be sold on the Life University campus. It is unlawful for any person to consume alcoholic beverages or transport open containers of alcoholic beverages on or upon public areas.
• No alcoholic beverage shall be provided to any person who is in a state of noticeable intoxication.
• Service of alcoholic beverages shall at all times comply with applicable laws of the State of Georgia and requirements of the county and/or city where the function occurs.

Alcohol Policy: Life University Requirements

The following rules and regulations must be observed on the Life University Campus and in situations in which a unit or sub-unit of Life University or a recognized student organization holds a function off-campus where alcohol is to be served.

1. Location—Alcoholic beverages are prohibited except in the following locations to those of legal drinking age with the appropriate restrictions as follows:

A. On-Campus Facilities:

i.The Village Retreat and The Commons—Alcohol may only be served and consumed inside private residences by residents and their guests of legal age.

ii. All other Life University buildings and grounds—Alcohol may only be served and consumed by permission of the President or his designee. Specific permission for such consumption must be given in writing by an administrator at the level of vice president or higher. This policy applies to all campus individuals as well as organized activities including Life University intramural sports events and Life University athletic events.

B. Off Campus Facilities

i. If alcohol is to be served at an off-campus function of an organization, the President or his/her designee must be notified in writing in advance of such event that alcohol will be served at such event.

ii. Sponsoring groups’ programming efforts should reflect the fundamental principle that alcohol will be served as an amenity to the event, and should not be used as an enticement to participate in a campus event. Specific reference to alcohol in promotional materials and invitations for Life University events is prohibited. Promotions may include a statement requesting that students bring proper I.D.

iii. Any open event* at which alcohol will be served must be registered two weeks prior to the event.

iv. *Open events typically are those to which persons other than sponsoring group members and their dates are invited and for which public advertisements/announcements (on campus or off) are made as a general invitation. Though public announcements from private/closed parties may be issued, they should indicate “members only.”

The following additional guidelines apply to open events only:

a. The name of a person in the sponsoring group responsible for servers will be required on the approval form for open events.

b. Life University Campus Safety personnel will be required for open campus events where alcohol is to be served. The sponsoring group(s) will be responsible for security-related costs. The number of Life University Campus Safety personnel will be determined through consultation with the office of the Vice President of Student Affairs.

2. The use of any funds of Life University, including but not limited to Student Affairs monies, or any attempt to obligate such funds, for the use, consumption, possession, distribution or sale of alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited, except when special permission is granted in writing by the President or his/her designee.

3. Alcohol may not be sold* on campus. Alcohol may be sold at Life University events in off-campus facilities, but only if the proprietor/ seller holds the required licenses for the sale and servicing of alcohol.

*The sale or the appearance of the selling of alcoholic beverages is prohibited by law on any college or university campus in the state of Georgia.

4. At functions where alcoholic beverages are served, direct access shall be limited to a person(s) designated as the server(s). Servers will be responsible for checking identification and proof of age before serving.

5. Proper identification will be required as proof of age (Life University ID not acceptable) for service of alcohol.

6. Proper identification or any document issued by a governmental agency containing the person’s photograph and date of birth and includes a driver’s license or passport. Two forms of ID may be necessary in some cases to establish proof of age and/or affiliation with Life University. Non-University guests who wish to attend an event where alcoholic beverages are being served must be accompanied by a Life University representative (student, faculty or staff member) with a current Life University identification card.

7. Persons who attend an approved event at which alcoholic beverages are being served may not carry in their own alcoholic beverage.

8. Distribution and consumption of alcoholic beverages is permitted only within the approved area designated for the event.

9. Adequate proportions of food and non-alcoholic beverages to alcoholic beverages will be considered as criteria for event approval. A reasonable portion of the budget should be designated for the purchase of food items.

The amount of alcohol served at any event shall be proportionate to the expected attendance of the event. Nonalcoholic beverages must be featured as prominently as alcoholic beverages.

10. No social event shall include any form of “drinking contest” in its activities or promotion and alcohol may not be given as an award or prize. Any activity that contributes to alcohol overindulgence or abuse is strictly prohibited.

11. The group sponsoring the event must ensure compliance with any host facility regulation.

12. The serving of alcoholic beverages shall be limited to the hours scheduled for the event.  If a function lasts two hours or more, the serving of alcoholic beverages must stop at least 45 minutes before the scheduled end of the activity.

13. Organizations that have authorized alcohol at their function need to provide alternative transportation to any individual in attendance that has overindulged in alcohol or appears to be under the influence of alcohol.

14. Appropriate measures for cleanup of a campus facility will be required of the group sponsoring the event.

In addition to the above guidelines, student clubs and organizations must comply with the policies and procedures set forth in the Life University Clubs and Organizations Handbook.

Alleged violations of this policy by an individual student or by a student organization shall be referred to the Director of Student Conduct.

Commercial Funding Sources

• Any off-campus group wishing to give away alcoholic beverages on campus may do so only if the sponsoring Life University group has met all policy requirements and permission is granted by the appropriate Life University official.
• Life University groups shall not engage in co-sponsorship with outside agents for any event(s) including multiple alcoholic drink offers (e.g. two for one, three for one).
• Life University ‘s name shall not be used in conjunction with any commercial co-sponsoring related to alcohol. Revised, 2010

Standards of Conduct with Regard to Alcohol and Drugs

The University may develop additional guidelines or explanations of this policy in order to assist students with understanding and complying with the policy.

Furthermore, all provisions of the Life University Standards of Conduct that refer to alcoholic beverages are in full force and effect and are not affected by any of the provisions of this policy. (Life University Honor Code / Standards of Conduct Section D. Responsibility 1. Alcohol Misuse and 2. Drug Misuse)

Enforcement

1. Adherence to these policies on alcohol and drugs shall be the individual and personal responsibility of each member of the student body, staff, faculty or administration of Life University.
2. Direct responsibility and accountability for the enforcement of these policies are imposed upon students, members of the staff, faculty or administrators of Life University who, in the course of their duties, participate in the arrangement or sponsorship organization of institutionally-sponsored events, whether taking place on property owned or leased by Life University.
3. Direct responsibility and accountability are imposed upon faculty advisors to student organizations approved by Life University, together with all elected or appointed officers thereof, to ensure strict compliance with these policies.
4. All approved student organizations must implement a self-monitoring system to ensure compliance with this policy. The officers of each organization will certify, in writing, to the office of the Vice President of Student Affairs, that the organization is aware of and will comply with the provisions of this policy.
5. Faculty/staff advisors will be present to monitor student group/functions where alcohol is being used.
6. Advisors or advisory boards of all student organizations:

a. Must be familiar with the alcohol and drug policy and the sanctions for noncompliance.

b. Are required to report to the Vice President of Student Affairsany cases of alcohol abuse, drug abuse or illegal service of alcoholic beverages.

     7. Every member of the Life University community is encouraged to refer a student, staff member, administrator or faculty member with drug or alcohol problems to the Student Success Center of Life University, to the Vice President of Student Affairs, to the Director of Student Conduct or to the Student Behavioral Assessment Team (SBAT). 

Diploma and Commencement Name Policy

Diploma and Commencement Name Policy AS.043

A student must use their legal name on commencement materials and diploma. Appropriate documentation will be required for any legal name change.

The diploma name is determined by the potential student/graduate when submitting the Graduation Application. This name is also utilized for various commencement materials pertaining to the student/graduate. A candidate for degree may choose to legally change their name prior to the commencement ceremony by submitting a Legal Name Change form and two forms of supporting legal documentation (i.e. government issued ID, court documents, etc.). If proper legal documentation has not been provided before the commencement materials and diploma are produced, the student/graduate name will revert to the full name on University record. Candidates for degree should confirm their diploma name on the Graduation Application. Some variations of a students legal name are acceptable:

 Full First Name, Full Middle Name, Full Last Name
 Full First Name, Initial of Middle Name, Full Last Name
 Initial of First Name, Full Middle Name, Full Last Name
 No First Name, Full Middle Name, Full Last Name
 Full First Name, No Middle name/Initial, Full Last Name

The Office of the Registrar will correct any student/graduate name that has been entered in all capital letters, is missing pertinent punctuation, or has been changed without proper approval. Students can appeal these corrections by contacting the Office of the Registrar at luregistrar@life.edu.

Replacement Diploma
The student/graduate will be responsible for the cost of a replacement diploma if a legal name change request is received after the initial order has been placed. A replacement diploma may be ordered with a different name than the original diploma if a student submits the Replacement Diploma form along with one form of supporting legal documentation (driver’s license, marriage certificate, passport, etc.). Any change in legal name after the student/graduate leaves the university, will only be reflected on the replacement diploma, and will not be recorded on University record.

International Students
It is strongly recommended for international students to match the name printed on their diploma to the exact name as it appears on their passport. Various international governments and verification agencies will not accept a student’s diploma as an official document if the name does not match the name on university record and legal form of identification. 

Eligibility For Extracurricular Activities Policy

Eligibility For Extracurricular Activities Policy SS.004  

A student on disciplinary probation may not represent the University in any athletic competition. A student who has been suspended may not participate in any University activities. 

Facilities

Buildings and Grounds

The facilities of Life University are available for use by recognized Life University organizations. The Office of Student Affairs responsible for approving student functions to be held on campus. After the beginning of each quarter, the Office of Student Affairs will determine the availability of the buildings/facilities and should be contacted by those persons (students, employees) interested in using the facilities.

In accordance with Life University Fire Safety Policy, cooking appliances not provided by the institution are prohibited.

Athletic Fields

Athletic facilities are not general use facilities. All activities must be pre-approved by the Department of Athletics (770-426-2616) before being utilized. Approved activities will be added to the university’s facility scheduling software to ensure the appropriate campus entities are aware of facility use.

The care for and proper use of Life University athletic facilities is important to ensure safe and proper utilization. Kindly contact the Department of Athletics for appropriate reservation of facility needs.

Firearms and Weapons

Firearms and Weapons SS.022    

Firearms and weapons are not permitted on the campus at any time, with the exception of duly authorized state and federal certified law enforcement officers. Any law enforcement officer visiting campus or attending classes must register with the Campus Safety Department prior to proceeding to their desired locations. Offenses involving firearms and weapons will be handled through criminal procedures and/or by the Conduct Review Board of the Executive Director of Student Affairs. For further information, please refer to the Honor Code.

Grade Appeal Policy

Grade Appeal Policy AS.022  

Grade Appeal Process

The student will be required to present to the department/division chair or designee in which the course is offered, a written appeal that includes the following:

• A statement addressing how the appeal meets one or more of the grade appeal policy criteria necessary for a formal appeal.
• A description of the outcome of the informal discussion process.
• Any relevant documents the student would like to be reviewed as part of the grade appeal process
• A copy of the course syllabus and assignment descriptions

The department/division Assistant/Associate dean or designee may request additional materials from the student. After receiving a copy of the grade appeal materials, the department/division Assistant/Associate dean  will review the grade appeal and discuss the appeal with both the instructor of record and the student and render a resolution. If the resolution rendered is not mutually agreeable between the student and the instructor of record and the student wishes to pursue the matter further, then the student can file a formal grade appeal for the final course grade no later than 10 calendar days from the date that the final grades are posted by the Registrar, to the college dean. Once the student provides the formal grade appeal to the college dean, then a Grade Appeal Review Committee shall be formed by the College Associate Dean within 5 calendar days.

The function of the Grade Appeal Review Committee shall be to evaluate the appeal in terms of the stated grounds for appeal and make a recommendation to the college dean.

The Grade Appeal Review Committee shall include five members (4 faculty members and one student):

• One selected by the college associate dean to serve as the chair
• One selected by the student (if the student forfeits their selection ability, then a faculty member will be appointed for them by the College Dean)
• One selected by the instructor of record
• One selected by the department/division Assistant/Associate dean
• President of Student Council or his/her designee

* Of the 4 faculty members, one must be outside of the college

A majority vote shall prevail in the committee. The Committee’s recommendation may be to keep the assigned grade or to change the assigned grade. The committee shall provide their recommendation and a written justification to the college dean no later than 10 calendar days after the Committee’s formation.

The college dean shall render a decision within 5 calendar days and inform the student, the instructor of record, and the Registrar of the decision.

If the results of the case warrant a grade change and the instructor of record does not implement the required change of grade within 5 calendar days after learning of the college dean’s decision, the college dean shall implement the change of grade on the students’ official transcript through the grade change process. This will be the last step of the formal grade appeal.

The college dean shall forward a written record of the results of all grade appeals to the CAO within 30 days of the student’s formal grade appeal.

 Graduation Ceremony

Graduation Participation Policies:

Doctor of Chiropractic and Undergraduate students may participate in the graduation ceremonies if you have already completed or are scheduled to complete your requirements in the quarter in which you have applied to graduate. Ceremonies are to be held four times a year.

Undergraduate students may participate in the graduation ceremonies if you have already completed, or are scheduled to complete, your requirements in the quarter in whichh you have applied to graduate. Ceremonies are to be held four times a year.

Graduate students must meet the eligibility requirements as set by the Graduate faculty. A graduate student will be eligible to participate in the graduation ceremony during the quarter in which he/she is registered and takes the comprehensive exam, or completes the thesis defense. Ceremonies are to be held four times a year.

Candle-Lighters

Students selected by their respective college to receive the LIFE Values awards will join to light three candles during the ceremony. The candle they will light represents one of Life University’s Three LIFE Values.

Flag Bearers

International students participating in graduation ceremonies are selected to carry their country’s flag during the opening of the ceremony. In the instance that there is more than one graduate from a given country, selection is based on highest GPA.

Graduation Honors

Valedictorian: The Life University graduate, from the Bachelor’s and the Doctor of Chiropractic programs, currently ranking the highest academically in their respective program’s graduating class at the time of commencement exercises, will be honored as the class valedictorian. To be eligible, 75% of the student’s degree must have been taken from Life University.

Salutatorian: The Life University graduate, from the Bachelor’s and the Doctor of Chiropractic Programs, currently ranking the second-highest highest academically in their respective program’s graduating class at the time of commencement exercises, will be honored as the class salutatorian. To be eligible, 75% of the student’s degree must have been taken from Life University.

The Valedictorian and Salutatorian of each class, and students graduating with honors, are identified as such in the graduate listing.

Clinic Honors

The Clinic Excellence Award may be presented to a deserving student, or students, at their recognized and official (according to the University registrar and the graduation program) Life University graduation event who has repeatedly demonstrated, throughout their clinic career, the power of the chiropractic adjustment. The recipients have achieved the worthy goal of touching and changing many lives by allowing the innate intelligence inside each of them to be expressed more freely through chiropractic care, and have done this with great enthusiasm and persistence.

Chiropractic Philosophy Distinction

The Life University Chiropractic Philosophy Distinction is given to the student who best exemplifies the deep understanding of Chiropractic’s fundamental vitalistic perspective; the critical examination and integration of Chiropractic’s metaphysical and clinical principles of life, health and healing into his/her own life; and the will to profess that perspective and those principles in the marketplace of ideas, which are necessary to transform a chiropractic student into a chiropractic philosopher.

Chiropractic Research Track

Students graduating for the Research Track have followed an alternative curriculum that includes conducting a self-directed research project while completing their D.C. degree. Research Track positions are limited and highly competitive. These graduates have shown a high degree of integrity, leadership, ability to think critically, and have actively contributed to the evolution of the scientific paradigms of the profession.

Clinic Excellence Award

The Life University Clinic Excellence Award is presented to a graduating student intern who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in service and academic performance throughout their clinic career. The criteria that determine excellence in the Life University clinics are grounded in the Eight Core Proficiencies and require extraordinary patient care; outstanding communication and relationship skills; integrity and good citizenship; and the willingness to advance chiropractic knowledge and science.

Academic Honors

Students, except Master’s candidates, who graduate with a cumulative GPA equal to or above 3.25 are given Scholastic honors status as follows:

3.25-3.49 = Cum Laude

3.50-3.74 = Magna Cum Laude

3.75 and above = Summa Cum Laude

Participants wear the appropriate, respective color cords at the graduation ceremony signifying the achievement of academic honors.

Quarterly Scholastic Honors - Dean’s List:

The names of full-time students achieving a grade point average of at least 3.5 in a quarter are included in the Dean’s List in the respective quarter.

The Dean’s List Citation is awarded to any student who has:

Maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.50-3.74 for each quarter during the academic year

Registered for a minimum of 12 credits for each quarter

Completed all attempted credits for all registered courses during each quarter (no “I,” “IP” or “WF” grades)

A student who is found by the Office of Student Conduct to have violated the Honor Code of Life University is not eligible for the Dean’s List.

The President’s List Citation is awarded to any student who has:

Maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.75-4.00 for each quarter during the academic year

Registered for a minimum of 12 credits for each quarter

Completed all attempted credits for all registered courses during each quarter (no “I,” “IP” or “WF” grades)

A student who is found by the Office of Student Conduct to have violated the Honor Code of Life University is not eligible for the President’s List.

Hazing Policy

Hazing Policy SS.005  

All students or other persons associated with any University organizations are prohibited from engaging in any activity that can be described as hazing.

Per Georgia Hazing Law (Sec. 16-5-61. Hazing)

1. As used in this Code section, the term:

a. “Haze” means to subject a student to an activity, which endangers or is likely to endanger the physical health of a student, regardless of a student’s willingness to participate in such activity. In “school” means any school, college or university in this state.

b. “School organization” means any club, society, fraternity, sorority or a group living together, which has students as its principal members.

c. “Student” means any person enrolled in a school in this state.

2. It shall be unlawful for any person to haze any student in connection with or as a condition or precondition of gaining acceptance, membership, office or other status in a school organization.

3. Any person who violates this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature. 

Involuntary Leave Policy

Involuntary Leave Policy SS.007

Life University considers the safety and welfare of its students, faculty and staff a top priority. When a student engages in behavior that violates Life University’s policies and procedures, the behavior will be addressed as a disciplinary matter under the applicable Honor Code and Standards of Conduct. The Honor Code and Standards of Conduct define prohibited conduct and outline a process for conducting disciplinary proceedings.

This Involuntary Leave Policy and Procedure is not a disciplinary code, policy or process. It is intended to apply when a student’s observed conduct, actions and/or statements indicate a direct threat to the student’s own health and/or safety, or a direct threat to the health and/or safety of others. There may be situations in which both this Involuntary Leave Policy and the Honor Code and Standards of Conduct may apply. In all cases, the Vice President of Student Affairs or his/her designee shall have final authority regarding the decision, enactment, enforcement and management of the involuntary leave of a student.

The Student Behavior Assessment Team (“SBAT”) may also be involved in carrying out this policy. The purpose of SBAT is to proactively identify student behaviors of concern in order to provide a coordinated and planned approach to preventing, assessing, managing, and resolving interpersonal and behavioral concerns and threats to the Life University community. SBAT makes recommendations for treatment, disciplinary action and/or other responses to the Vice President of Student Affairs and other campus officials as appropriate, with the ultimate goal of promoting student health, safety and success within a thriving educational environment.

Criteria

A student may be placed on involuntary leave from Life University if the University determines that the student presents a direct threat to the health or safety of the student or others by (1) engaging or threatening to engage in behavior which poses the probability of substantial harm to the student or others; or (2) engaging or threatening to engage in behavior which would cause significant property damage, would directly and substantially impede the lawful activities of others, or would directly and substantially interfere with or disrupt the educational process or the orderly operation of the University.

Procedure

When the Vice President of Student Affairs, or his/her designee, based on a student’s conduct, actions or statements, has reasonable cause to believe that the student meets one or more of the criteria for involuntary leave, he or she may initiate an assessment of the student’s ability to safely participate in the University’s program. If SBAT, based on a student’s conduct, actions or statements, has reasonable cause to believe that the student meets one or more of the criteria for involuntary leave, it will bring the matter to the attention of the Vice President of Student Affairs, or his/her designee, who will then carry out the procedure set forth below.

The Vice President of Student Affairs or his /her designee initiates this assessment by first meeting with the student to

1. review available information concerning the behavior and/or incidents which have caused concern,
2. provide the student with a copy of this Involuntary Leave Policy and Procedure and discuss its contents with the student,
3. provide the student an opportunity to explain his/her behavior, and
4. discuss options available to the student, such as counseling, voluntary withdrawal and evaluation for involuntary leave. If the student agrees to be placed on voluntary leave in lieu of involuntary leave and waives any right to any further procedures available under this policy, the student will be given a grade of W for all courses and will be advised in writing of any conditions necessary prior to return to the University, which may include appropriate mental health services or community resources or other conditions appropriate to the circumstances. If the student elects not to be placed on voluntary leave, and the Vice President of Student Affairs or his/her designee continues to have reasonable cause to believe the student meets one or more of the criteria for involuntary leave, the Vice President of Student Affairs or his/her designee may require the student to be evaluated by an appropriate mental health professional.

Evaluation

The Vice President of Student Affairs or his/her designee may refer the student for a mandatory evaluation by an appropriate mental health professional. The mental health professional may be selected by the University, so long as there is no cost to the student for the evaluation. A written copy of the involuntary referral shall be provided to the student. The evaluation must be completed within five school days after the date the referral letter is provided to the student. Prior to the evaluation, the student will be required to sign a written authorization authorizing the exchange of relevant information among the mental health professional(s) and the University. Upon completion of the evaluation, copies of the evaluation report will be provided to the Vice President of Student Affairs or his/her designee. A copy of the mental health professional’s evaluation will be provided to the student, unless, in the opinion of the mental health professional, it would be damaging to the student to do so.

The mental health professional making the evaluation shall make an individualized and objective assessment of the student’s ability to safely participate in any Life University program based on a reasonable professional judgment relying on the most current medical knowledge and/or the best available objective evidence. This assessment shall include a determination of the nature, duration and severity of the risk posed by the student to the health or safety of himself/herself or others, the probability that a potentially threatening injury will actually occur, and whether reasonable modifications of policies, practices or procedures will sufficiently mitigate the risk. The mental health professional will, with appropriate authorization, share his/her recommendation with the Vice President of Student Affairs, or his/her designee, who will take this recommendation into consideration in determining whether the student should be placed on involuntary leave. A copy of the mental health professional’s recommendation will be provided to the student, unless, in the opinion of the mental health professional, it would be damaging to the student to do so.

If the evaluation results in a determination by the mental health professional that the student’s continued attendance presents no significant risk to the health or safety of the student or others, and no significant threat to health, safety or property, to the lawful activities of others, or to the educational processes or orderly operations of the University, no further action shall be taken to place the student on involuntary leave. However, even if involuntary leave is not imposed, the University may impose conditions and/or requirements under which the student is allowed to remain enrolled in Life’s programs, such as but not limited to a treatment plan.

If the evaluation results in a determination that the continued attendance of the student presents a significant risk to the health or safety of the student or others, such that there is a high probability of substantial harm to the student or others, or a significant threat to health, safety or property, to the lawful activities of others, or to the educational processes or orderly operations of the University, the student may be placed on involuntary leave. In such an event, the Dean of Student Affairs or his/her designee shall inform the student in writing of the decision to place him/her on involuntary leave, of the student’s right to an informal hearing, of the student’s right to appeal the decision of the hearing officer, and of any conditions necessary for return to the University. A student who is placed on involuntary leave will be given a grade of W in all courses in which the student is currently enrolled.

A student who, under this policy, elects to voluntarily leave, or is placed on involuntary leave, may request a refund of tuition, fees, housing payments and any other amounts. Refunds will be made in accordance with applicable University policies and procedures.

Interim Suspension

The University may take emergency action to interim suspend a student pending a final decision on whether the student will be placed on involuntary leave in situations in which

1. there is imminent danger of serious physical harm to the student or others,
2. there is imminent danger of significant property damage,
3. the student is unable or unwilling to meet with the Vice President of Student Affairs or his/her designee,
4. the student refuses to complete the mandatory evaluation, or
5. the Vice President of Student Affairs or his/her designee determines such other exceptional circumstances exist that emergency interim suspension is warranted.

In the event emergency action is taken to suspend the student on an interim basis, the student shall be given notice of the interim suspension and an opportunity to address the circumstances on which the interim suspension is based.

Informal Hearing

A student who has been placed on involuntary leave may request an informal hearing before a hearing officer appointed by the Vice President of Student Affairs or his/her designee by submitting a written request to be heard within two business days from receipt of the notice of involuntary leave. A hearing will be set as soon as possible. The student shall remain on interim suspension pending completion of the hearing.

The hearing shall be informal and non-adversarial. During the hearing, the student may present relevant information and may be advised by a Life University faculty or staff member or a licensed health professional of his/ her choice. The role of the advisor is limited to providing advice to the student.

At the conclusion of the hearing, the hearing officer shall decide whether to uphold or reconsider the involuntary leave, and the student shall be provided written notice of the hearing officer’s decision as soon as possible.

Appeal of Informal Hearing Outcome

The student may appeal the hearing officer’s decision to uphold the involuntary leave to the Vice President of Academic Affairs, who shall review all information presented at the informal hearing and make a final decision as to whether or not to uphold the involuntary leave.

Effect of Involuntary Leave

Students who have been placed on involuntary leave from the University or who have had the procedure in this policy initiated are generally not permitted to be on University premises or participate in University events. However, a student who has been placed on involuntary leave or suspended on an interim basis pending an appeal may be on campus, with the permission of the

Vice President of Student Affairs or his/her designee, for the purposes of participating in the processes detailed in this Policy or as otherwise required and appropriate in the discretion of the Vice President of Student Affairs or his/her designee. The Vice President of Student Affairs or his designee reserves the right to request that the student be accompanied by campus safety while on University premises.

Conditions for Return

A student who has been placed on involuntary leave of absence and who subsequently petitions to return to the University will be required to demonstrate to the Vice President of Student Affairs or their designee that the circumstances that led to the placement on involuntary leave have been satisfactorily addressed. Evidence (documentation) of the student’s readiness to return will be required from an appropriate licensed professional who is able to provide a recommendation based on their scope of practice. 

Specific conditions for return may include: (a) Appropriate, current, documentation indicating that the student no longer demonstrates the behavior which led to the voluntary or involuntary leave; and/or (b) Verification from the provider that the student is under treatment or has been placed on a treatment plan which should prevent the behavior which led to the leave.

Deviations from Established Procedures

The Vice President of Student Affairs or their designee may make such reasonable deviations to this Policy and these procedures as circumstances may require for the welfare of the involved student(s) and the University. Reasonable deviations from these procedures will not invalidate a decision or proceeding unless significant prejudice to a student may result.

Nondiscriminatory Application

The University will apply this Involuntary Leave Policy in a nondiscriminatory manner and determinations made under the policy are to be based on observation of a student’s conduct, actions, and statements, and not on knowledge or belief that a student is an individual with a disability.[LR1] 

Confidentiality

The University will maintain the confidentiality of all information regarding Involuntary Leaves of Absence in accordance with federal, state and local law, and to the greatest extent consistent with the goal of processing such Leaves. All records concerning Involuntary Leaves are confidential.

Notice for Senior Clinic Experience

Students enrolled in 13th and 14th quarter clinic have the opportunity to choose their Level III Clinic experience. Options include: Life Outreach Clinics, PEAK and International PEAK. For information on these options, email Dr. John Markham, Executive Director of Level III Programs at John.Markham@LIFE.edu.

Nondiscrimination Policy

Non-discrimination Policy UL.004  

Life University complies with federal and state law, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, citizenship or veteran status. The University also prohibits sexual misconduct and gender-based harassment. This nondiscrimination policy applies to all practices at Life University; including admission to educational programs and activities, access to treatment, and to employment. Students who have inquiries regarding Life’s nondiscrimination policy may contact the Office of Student Affairs at 770-426-2700 or the Title IX Office at 770-426-2686.

Readmission

Readmission Policy SS.019  

Any previously admitted student, regardless of prior admission status, who voluntarily or involuntarily remains out of school for less than three consecutive quarters must first petition for readmission at the Student Advocacy Center. This may require readmission evaluation by the appropriate admission committee.

If the individual remains out for three consecutive quarters or more, for any reason, that individual must first re-apply for readmission (new application and application fee required) through the Office of Enrollment and their reapplication will be evaluated for readmission by the appropriate committee.

Reports of Academic Progress

Grades are assigned and recorded for each course at the end of each academic quarter. Reports of grades are available via Life University’s” WEB Advisor”. Grade changes subsequent to the issuance of final grade reports are reflected in the student’s transcript and are also accessible via “WEB Advisor.” No formal grade reports are issued.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy

Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy AS.024  

In order to receive approval for any form of Title IV financial assistance, reasonable academic progress must be made toward graduation. To demonstrate progress, a student must comply with the following requirements:

Effective 7/1/2011 (supersedes all former policies):

The United States Department of Education and most agencies providing financial assistance require students to maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP) in their course of study to continue receiving funding. Failure to maintain SAP will result in the loss of Federal Title IV financial   aid,   as   well   as   State   and   other   aid.   Federal   Title   IV   financial   aid includes Pell Grant, Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (SEOG), Subsidized Stafford (Direct) Loan, Unsubsidized Stafford (Direct) Loan, Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS), Graduate PLUS loan and Federal work-study. State aid includes Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant (GTEG), HOPE Scholarship and Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership Grant (LEAP). The student’s entire academic history is evaluated to determine whether or not he/she is maintaining SAP. This evaluation is not affected by whether or not aid was previously received or whether a student has changed programs. The Federal Student Aid program regulations make no provision for the concept of academic amnesty or grade forgiveness.

Doctor of Chiropractic and Undergraduate Program

Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) and Undergraduate (UG) students will be evaluated annually at the end of each spring quarter. Students in the Doctor of Chiropractic and Undergraduate programs are expected to complete at least 67% of all attempted hours with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0. When students are evaluated and are not meeting SAP requirements, they will  become  ineligible  for  Federal  and  State  financial  aid.  Students  may  regain  federal  and state eligibility by enrolling using their own resources or alternative funding sources until they have met a cumulative 2.0 GPA and completed 67 percent of their courses.

Master’s Program

Master’s students (GR) will be evaluated at the end of each quarter. Students in the Graduate (GR) program are expected to complete at least 67 percent of all attempted hours with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0. Graduate students will be evaluated after their first (and subsequent) quarter in the program because of the short duration of the master’s program. Students not meeting SAP will be placed on financial aid warning for one quarter. If at the end of their warning quarter the students are not meeting SAP, they will become ineligible for federal aid. Students may regain federal eligibility by enrolling using their own resources or alternative funding sources until they have met a cumulative 3.0 GPA and completed 67 percent of their courses.

SAP is measured in three ways

1.      Qualitative Standard (Grade Point Average - GPA)

• The cumulative GPA provided by the Registrar’s Office, it is listed at the bottom of the student’s transcript.
• DC and UG students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.00 or higher.
• GR students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher.

2.      Quantitative Standard

• All students (UG, GR, DC) are expected to complete at least 67 percent of all courses attempted.
• Attempted courses are defined as those for which one has registered and been charged in which grades of A, B, C, D, F, W, I, P, SP, NP, or IP are given.
• Completed courses are defined as those in which grades of A, B, C, D (in some UG courses only) SP, or P are given.

Example of meeting the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements:

At the end of spring quarter 2011, Kevin Smith, an UG student, has attempted 45 credit hours.

He has earned grades of “C” in all 45 hours. He has met the qualitative standard because his cumulative GPA is 2.00.

He has successfully completed all of the courses he attempted. He has met the quantitative standard because his completion rate is 100 percent.

Example of not meeting the SAP requirements:

At the end of spring quarter 2011, Susan Moore, a DC student, has attempted 95 credit hours and completed 70 of those 95 credits.

Her cumulative GPA is a 1.90, she did not meet the qualitative standard since her GPA is below a 2.00.

She met the quantitative standard because her completion rate is 73 percent.

3.      Time-Frame

All students (UG, GR, and DC) are expected to finish their degrees after having attempted coursework not to exceed 150 percent of their program requirements (measured in credit hours attempted).

UG: Students seeking an Associate degree may not receive financial aid after having attempted 147 credit hours. Students seeking a Bachelor’s degree may not receive financial aid after having attempted 282 credit hours.

GR: Students seeking a Master’s degree may not receive financial aid after having attempted 78 credit hours.

DC: Students seeking a Doctor of Chiropractic degree may not receive financial aid after having attempted 525 credit hours.

Warnings

It is an academic policy of the University that DC students have a maximum of eight calendar years to complete their programs. Please be advised that, should DC students average less than 12 earned hours per quarter, they will be unable to complete the program in 8 calendar years.

Full-time DC students are eligible to borrow no more than $224,000 in Federal Direct Loans. Please be advised that, should DC students average less than 19 earned hours per quarter while receiving the maximum Federal Direct Loans for all quarters, they will exhaust their Federal Direct Loan eligibility prior to completion of the program.

Appeals

If there are extenuating circumstances beyond their control, students have the right to appeal their SAP determination. The appeal must be directly relatable to the academic period for which the student is being evaluated and cannot have been previously submitted for review. Appeals must be    submitted    in    writing    using     the     SAP     appeal     form     obtained     by     speaking with the Financial Aid Counselor and MUST include supporting third party documentation. Appeals without supporting documentation will not be accepted. Students are required to submit a statement regarding why the student failed to make SAP, and what has changed  in  the  student’s  situation  that  would  allow  the  student  to  demonstrate   satisfactory academic progress at the next evaluation.

Submitting an appeal does not guarantee approval and if the appeal is denied students will be responsible for paying the Institution any balance owed without Federal funds. The Financial Aid Appeals Committee (FAAC) will consider each appeal on its own merits and the decision of the FAAC committee is final.

During the FAAC review, it will be determined if the student can or cannot meet SAP after the next quarter of enrollment. This will be done by looking at the student’s current transcript of completed classes and GPA for all quarters attended at Life University in the appropriate program. Any   student   who   has    their    SAP    decision    successfully    appealed    and    cannot    meet SAP after the next quarter of enrollment will receive an Academic plan and be placed on Financial Aid probation. The Academic plan will be individualized and specific to each student in order to put the student on track to successful academic progress in no more than four quarters. If at any time during an Academic Plan students do not meet the terms of their plan, they will lose their federal aid and will not be eligible to appeal. If, when presented with the Academic plan,  the student chooses not to accept it, the student will need to pay using other resources until meeting the minimum requirements for SAP.

Students who choose not to appeal or have their appeal denied may regain their eligibility for financial aid by enrolling using their own resources or alternative non-federal funding and bringing their academic performance into compliance with this policy.

Students who separate from the Institution without appealing when not meeting SAP lose their right to appeal the decision. If students return to the Institution and are not meeting SAP upon return, they will be responsible for using their own resources or using Private loans. Once the students are meeting SAP, they must self-identify to the Financial Aid Office and request to be reevaluated for Federal aid.

Life University is committed to taking all practical measures to create a safe and healthy environment. To further this goal, the University has established this policy to promote the well-being and health awareness of employees by reducing the risk of tobacco-related illness in compliance with applicable laws and local codes.

All students, staff, faculty and visitors are prohibited from smoking and using, selling, free distributing and advertising tobacco products and electronic smoking devices (ex. e-cigarettes) in all facilities and on all University property, including University-owned vehicles and in any privately-owned vehicle parked or operated on University property.

Sexual Offenses & Harassment

Life University reaffirms the principal that its students, administration, faculty and staff have a right to be free from sexual misconduct and gender-based discrimination. Sexual misconduct and gender-based discrimination can occur in many forms, including, but not limited to: sexual harassment, non-consensual sexual contact (or attempts to commit same), non-consensual sexual intercourse (or attempts to commit same), rape, sexual violence, intimate partner violence, sexual exploitation, stalking and unwelcome conduct based on sex or harassing conduct based on failure to conform to sex stereotypes (for example, harassing behavior directed at or about a person or group that does not conform to stereotypical assumptions and/or expectations of how someone of a certain sex should dress, behave, etc). Sexual misconduct and gender-based discrimination are prohibited by this policy, as well as federal law. Life University will take seriously every allegation or report of sexual misconduct or gender-based discrimination received. The University will not tolerate sexual misconduct or gender-

based discrimination and wants to make clear that sexual misconduct or gender-based discrimination is reprehensible in any situation.

Inquiries or complaints regarding reports of sexual misconduct or gender-based harassment may be made to the University’s Title IX Coordinator 470-606-9585.

Soliciting on Campus Policy

Solicitation On Campus Policy SS.008  

Soliciting for any type of goods by any individual anywhere on campus is strictly prohibited. Outside agents are not permitted to solicit on Campus. “Solicitation” is interpreted to refer to any door to door residential solicitation of employees or students at their places of work, in study areas, Library or other areas on Campus, including the placing of flyers on vehicle windshields, posting flyers on or in any buildings or the use of donation receptacles. The only exception to on-campus soliciting is fundraising projects by approved on-campus organizations and sales activities permitted by a contractual agreement approved by the President, Executive Vice President for Finance, Vice President of Advancement or the Vice President of Student Affairs.

Life University Student Organizations must have all fundraising activities approved by the Office of Student Affairs. The practice of an individual selling items on campus and donating a percentage of the profits to the club in return for their sponsorship is not allowable. The club or organization must do the selling itself with all the profits going to the club or organization.

Any unauthorized solicitors should be reported immediately to Campus Safety. 

Student Record Policy

Student Records Policy SS.020  

Students shall have the right to have academic and disciplinary records kept confidential subject to existing state and federal law. No official records shall be kept which reflect any alleged political activity or belief of students.

No official records of the student shall be available to unauthorized persons within the institution or to any person outside the institution without the express consent of the student involved, except in cases where disclosure of records or their contents is required or allowed by law.

Tobacco & Smoke Free Campus

Tobacco & Smoke Free Campus Policy HR.005

Life University is committed to taking all practical measures to create a safe and healthy environment. To further this goal, the University has established this policy to promote the well-being and health awareness of employees by reducing the risk of tobacco-related illness in compliance with applicable laws and local codes.

All students, staff, faculty and visitors are prohibited from smoking and using, selling, free distributing, and advertising tobacco products and electronic smoking devices (ex. e-cigarettes) in all facilities and on all University property, including University-owned vehicles, and in any privately-owned vehicle parked or operated on University property. 

Withdrawal from the University

Withdrawal from the University Policy SS.014

To withdraw from the University, you must initiate the action sequentially as follows:

1. Obtain “Withdrawal/Hiatus Form” from Registrar’s Office.
2. Complete, sign and date the form.
3. Take the form to Accounting for signature.
4. Take the form to Financial Aid for signature.
5. Take the signed form back to the Registrar Office. If the “Withdrawal/Hiatus Form” is not properly completed and signed by the Registrar’s Office, a refund, if applicable, cannot be processed.
6. Be aware that all loan agencies, veterans’ or other appropriate agencies will be notified of your change of status.
7. The Accounting Office will receive a copy of your approved withdrawal form and a credit to your account will be made on a pro-rated basis. If you have made full or partial payment on your tuition/fees by check, cash or credit card and you desire a refund, you must notify the Accounting Office and furnish a mailing address if necessary.
8. If you have not attended class and withdraw from school, some financial aid received for that quarter may be an over-award. Life University will take steps to collect the over-award from you in the case of campus-based aid. For other educational loans, the lender will be promptly notified.

The procedure to appeal for a higher percentage of credit when a student withdraws from school is to act promptly in writing, by submitting an appeal to the academic dean of the appropriate school. Reasons for submitting request are undue hardship resulting from death of an immediate relative of the student, injury or illness of the student, or other special circumstances.

Withdrawal from all Classes: Refunds and Return of Financial Aid

Withdrawal From Life University Policy

Policy Statement

Students who wish to withdraw from all classes at Life University.

A student’s withdrawal date is always the last date of academic attendance as determined by the school from its attendance records. A student is considered to have withdrawn if the student does not complete all the days in the period of enrollment that the student was scheduled to complete.  The date of the institution’s determination that the student withdrew should be no later than 14 days after the student’s last date of attendance as determined by the institution from its attendance records. 

Student process to withdraw from Life University:

Students must complete a Withdrawal form. 

1.Students must meet with the Dean of their College, the Associate Dean or Assistant Dean; the Dean will determine the last date of academic attendance from attendance records and sign the form. 

2.Next the student must bring the Withdrawal form with Dean’s signature to the Student Affairs and Advocacy Center to meet with Financial Aid, Student Accounts and Registrar.  Once the meeting is complete the form is taken for processing. 

3.The student is notified in writing within 30 business days of the withdrawal and any financial obligations to the University. 

Students Who Withdraw and Receive Title IV Financial Aid:

Anytime a student begins attendance in at least one course but does not begin attendance in all the courses the student was scheduled to attend regardless of whether the student is a withdrawal, the school must determine if it is necessary to recalculate the student’s eligibility for Pell Grant and Campus-Based funds based on a revised enrollment status and cost of education.

If a student ceases attendance (drops or withdraws) from all his or her Title IV eligible courses in a payment period or period of enrollment, the student must be considered a withdrawal for Title IV purposes.

If the school cannot document attendance for a student who fails to complete a course the student must be treated as one who never began attendance for the payment period and all financial aid must be returned.

If a student who has withdrawn did not begin attendance in enough courses to establish a half-time enrollment status, the school may not make a first disbursement of a Direct Loan to the student after the student withdraws.

Refunds and Return of Financial Aid:

In accordance with the Higher Education Amendments of 1998, Life University will provide a refund that matches the federal return of Title IV funds, if the student has withdrawn on or before the 60% point of the quarter.

Students receiving federal Title IV financial assistance will be subject to a “Return of Title IV Funds” calculation. This calculation determines the percentage of the quarter completed, the percentage of federal financial aid earned, and the amount of federal financial aid that must be returned by the University and by the student. Depending upon the types and amounts of financial aid received and the date of withdrawal, the student may be required to repay some of the financial aid previously received. If the official withdrawal date is after the “60%” point of the quarter, no return of Title IV funds will be required.

For students enrolled in the full quarter - 11-week classes the after 60% point of quarter is the 46th day (Thursday of the 7th week); For students enrolled in the 5 week accelerated classes the after 60% point of quarter is the 23rd day (Tuesday of the 4th week - 1st 5 weeks & Thursday of the 9th week- 2nd 5 weeks); For any GR students enrolled in the summer quarter - 5 week classes the after 60% point of quarter is the 23rd day (Thursday of the 4th week).

Academic Policies

To view information on the following policies please visit Academic Policies & Information in the Academic Catalog.

• Attendance Policies
• Grade Appeal Policies
• Graduation Ceremonies
• Student Intellectual Property Policy
• International Students
• Involuntary Leave Policy
• Notice for Clinic Experience
• Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act
• Withdrawal from University