Section III: Policies & Procedures

ADJUSTING WITHOUT PROPER SUPERVISION

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 Assistant Dean of Clinics and the Director of Student Conduct 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

 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 Fall 2017 could submit a request to defer their start term to Winter 2018, Spring 2018, or Summer 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 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 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

All leash laws in Cobb County are enforced on our campus. Pets are not allowed on the campus or in the buildings with the exception for service animals. Pets may be taken on the five miles of running trails for the purpose of sight assistance and personal security, but the animals must be on a leash, and the owner must clean up after the pets. Pets are not allowed on the rugby field, or track and field facility for any reason, except for service animals.

 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, technique/art 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, and attendance at all three is required. However, any missed Chiropractic Assemblies can be made up on Blackboard. 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.

ATTENDANCE

Attendance policies are listed in each course syllabus. Attendance at all class sessions is a requirement of the Institution; however, certain bona fide emergencies may preclude attendance at some class sessions. Class absences are treated as follows: The general attendance policy states that a student may not miss more class hours than the equivalent number of weekly contact hours for a course without presenting an acceptable excuse, or the student will have his or her grade for the course reduced by one letter grade. A student who misses a number of class hours equivalent to one and one-half times the number of weekly contact hours for the course (e.g., 7.5 hours for a course scheduled for five-weekly contact hours) will receive a grade of “F” in the course, regardless of excuse. Students who are absent from class must make up the missed material prior to the next regular class. No absences may be made up, including labs!

Acceptable Excuses

Acceptable excuses include death of family member, personal sickness and imminent death of a family member. Excuses for class absences due to health must be signed and documented with letterhead, address and phone number of the licensed healthcare provider, and must contain the following statement: “The patient was confined to his/her house or admitted to the hospital from (time) on (date) through (time) on (date) for sickness or injury.” Confinement is defined as the inability to leave the house except to obtain health care or engage in prescribed activities which are primarily therapeutic and not social, recreational, business or educational in nature. Excuses for class absences due to death of an immediate family member must be signed and documented with letterhead, address and telephone number of the clergyman or with an obituary. Such documentation MUST be presented to the instructor(s) within the first week upon return to class(es), with an information copy furnished to the Dean of the respective college. Failure to do this within the specified time will result in the student’s absence being charged as an unexcused absence and may result in the assignment of a failing grade for excessive absences.

College of Chiropractic “Attendance Policy”: In the College of Chiropractic each course will have an attendance policy. The policy must be clearly articulated in the course syllabus. In those courses for which attendance is mandatory, attendance credit may be considered part of the grade. If portions of the course are mandatory [e.g. lecture (optional), lab (required)], it must be clearly delineated in the syllabus and announced in both lecture and lab during the first week. The policy for mandatory attendance will be consistent with the current policy, (i.e. missing over 10 percent of applicable hours produces a one-letter grade reduction, greater than 15 percent produces a failure in the course).

College of Graduate and Undergraduate Studies “Attendance Policy”: In the College of Graduate and Undergraduate Studies, attendance policies are listed in each course syllabus. Attendance at all class sessions is a requirement of this institution; however, certain bona fide emergencies may preclude attendance at some class sessions. Class absences are treated as follows:

The general attendance policy states that a student may not miss more class hours than the equivalent number of weekly contact hours for a course without representing an acceptable excuse or the student will have his or her grade for the course reduced by one letter grade. A student who misses a number of class hours equivalent to one and one-half times the number of weekly contact hours for the course (e.g., 7.5 hours for a course scheduled for five-weekly contact hours) will receive a grade of “F” in the course, regardless of excuse.

Students who are absent from class must make up the missed material prior to the next class. No absences may be made up. This includes all labs!

For safety of the individual student and others, students will not be permitted into laboratories after the instructor begins his briefing of that day’s laboratory methodologies.

Examination Attendance

All exams must be taken as scheduled unless PRIOR approval is granted or unless certain bona fide emergencies arise. (See acceptable excuses above.)

The acceptable excuses listed above for class absences are the only acceptable excuses for make-up exams. All exams, course work, papers, etc., must be completed prior to taking the final exam. It is the responsibility of the student requesting a bona fide make-up exam to contact the instructor within one week of their return to campus to request arrangements for make-up testing.

Calculation of grades missing the final exam may result in a student receiving a grade “I.”

Calculation of grades with the final exam and missing other required coursework made-up and/or submitted may result in a student receiving a grade “F”.

Upon a student’s return, arrangements for missed final exams must be made within one week of the next quarter in attendance. Failure to make-up missed exams will result in a zero for that exam. Grades for tests given prior to the final exam must be posted within one week of the test date. Grades for final exams must be posted within two working days of the exam date. If the final exam is on Friday or Saturday, the exam results must be posted no later than Monday of the following week.

Students must pass both the lecture and laboratory portions of a course before they can pass the entire course.

Life University Policy for Student Absences for College-Sanctioned Events

This policy does not replace the established, standard University absenteeism policy. It is an addition to the established policy.

1. Any student enrolled in any program of study at Life University may be officially excused from class(es) to represent the University at University-sanctioned events as identified by the President.
2. Excuses for absenteeism for these University-sanctioned events may be granted by the deans.
3. Students excused for University-sanctioned events must make arrangements with members of the faculty to make up lecture and lab hours missed. This is to be documented by the instructor and submitted to the appropriate dean.
4. Implementation of this policy places certain responsibilities upon all persons involved as follows:

The supervisor/advisor of the student or group participating in the extracurricular activity shall send written request to the appropriate dean at least two weeks (if possible) in advance of the absence. This request should include the name of the event, the date of the event, all travel schedules and names of all students involved.

Each student’s supervisor must notify the appropriate persons of any changes in the schedules as soon as changes are known.

Instructors shall allow students to take tests and exams during the five class days prior to the absence or within the five class days following the absence. (The instructor may dictate when a final exam is to be taken.) Also, instructors shall prepare similar tests and exams of the same format as those administered to the other students in the class.

Students shall notify each instructor that he or she is participating in a program that may create excused absences throughout the quarter. Students must provide a schedule of these events at the beginning of the quarter to each instructor.

Students shall make up tests, exams, labs and any other work five school days before or within five school days following the absence.

CHAIN OF COMMAND FOR COMMUNICATION AND PROBLEM RESOLUTION

Student Complaint Procedures

Title IX

The mission of Life University is to empower each student with the education, skill and values needed for career success and life fulfillment based on a vitalistic philosophy. The University’s Undergraduate, Graduate and Professional programs—each one committed to excellence in teaching, learning, research and the overall student experience—offer a vision and the promise for a meaningful life, the proficiencies necessary to achieve optimum personal performance and the wisdom to become transformational leaders in an increasingly diverse, global and dynamic world. This commitment includes providing an educational employment and business environment free of sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment of students is illegal. A federal law, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX), prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment, in education programs and activities. All public and private education institutions that receive any federal funds must comply with Title IX. Title IX protects students from harassment connected to any of the academic, education, extracurricular, athletic and other programs or activities of schools, regardless of the location. Title IX protects both male and female students from sexual harassment by any school employee, another student or a non-employee third party.

Any student with a complaint of discriminatory harassment should contact the Director of Student Conduct or the Title IX Coordinator in the Human Resources Department to make a complaint or obtain information about the procedure for handling such complaints.

Non-Academic Matters

Students with grievances relating to non-academic matters should confer with the Director of Student Conduct. The Director of Student Conduct will facilitate a review of the issue as it relates to Life University policy. The role of the Director of Student Conduct is to facilitate a resolution to each issue presented as well as ensure that each individual is treated fairly and in accordance with all Life University policies, procedures and standards of conduct. If a resolution cannot be achieved, the Director of Student Conduct may refer the student to the Human Resources Department to determine what additional steps may be available.

Academic Matters

Concerning academic questions or complaints, the student should first go to the instructor involved. If questions are not satisfactorily handled or the complaint adequately handled, the student should go to the instructor’s immediate supervisor (the assistant dean/division chair). The next step in the student complaint process is for the student to go to the associate dean of the college in which the student is enrolled, and then to the dean of the appropriate college if needs are not satisfactorily met through the associate dean. If students wish to appeal the decision of the dean, they should contact the Vice President for Academic Affairs. The Vice President for Academic Affairs will make the final decision.

Procedures for Institutional Sanctions

The rules and procedures for all offenses and disciplinary proceedings are defined in the Student Handbook. It is important to note that both the victim and the accused are afforded certain rights and that the list of references for counseling or any other assistance is available to both.

In cases of domestic violence and sexual offenses, Life University will make reasonable accommodations with regard to class schedules or living arrangements.

CHILDREN ON CAMPUS

If extraordinary circumstances necessitate bringing a child to campus, it is the parent and or legal guardian’s responsibility to ensure that the child’s behavior does not disrupt the learning environment in any way. Children causing a disruption must be immediately removed from the area so as to maintain an appropriate learning environment.

Patrons must be 18 years or older to enter the library.

COMPUTER USE POLICY

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.

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.

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 appropriate Life University computing unit. Violation may result in revocation of computer resource privileges and student disciplinary action or legal action.

User Responsibilities

The following provisions describe conduct prohibited under these guidelines:

1. Altering system software or hardware configurations or disrupting or interfering with the delivery or administration of computer resources.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Using computer resources to engage in conduct that interferes with other’s use of shared computer resources and/or the activities of other users, including studying, teaching, research and University administration.
5. Using computer resources for commercial or profit-making purposes without written authorization from the University.
6. Failing to adhere to individual department or unit lab and system policies, procedures and protocols. Allowing access to computer resources by unauthorized users.
7. Using computer resources for illegal activities. Criminal and illegal use may include obscenity, child pornography, threats, harassment, theft and unauthorized access.
8. 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 LIFE has made.
9. 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 administrative officials. Violation of these rules can result in termination of the student’s LIFE network access accounts.
10. 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 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.

DRESS CODE

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. The restrictions are few: shoes and shirts must be worn at all times, students should be modest in their attire, hair should be well-kept and personal hygiene must be kept up at all times. The Director of Student Conduct will deal with infractions of this code. Remember that this code is for the entire University. However, there is a separate code for clinic attire and laboratory settings. Clinic attire requirements may be found in the clinic section of Blackboard and laboratory setting requirements may be found in the respective course syllabi.

ALCOHOL AND POLICY STATEMENTS

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 POLICY RECOVERY ASSISTANCE

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 for assistance. The Department 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 5 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.

_{Credit to: Drexel University, Colorado State University, Saint Mary’s College, Lehigh University}

Drug-Free Schools, Community and Workplace Policy

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 well being of the members 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 and non-prescription drugs in the work place 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 non-prescription) 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 (5) days of the conviction.

Life University is committed to providing a safe work environment and to fostering the well-being 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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. No alcoholic beverage shall be provided to any person who is in a state of noticeable intoxication.

5. 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.

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.

I. 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

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

2. 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

1. 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.

2. 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.

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

*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 Services.

4. The use of any funds of Life University, including but not limited to Student Services moneys, 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

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

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

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

10. 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. Non-alcoholic beverages must be featured as prominently as alcoholic beverages.

11. 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.

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

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. Appropriate measures for clean up 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

1. 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.

2. 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).

3. 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 Services, 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 Services any 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 Services, to the Director of Student Conduct, or to the Student Behavioral Assessment Team (SBAT).

ELIGIBILITY POLICY ON EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

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 Services is responsible for approving student functions to be held on campus. After the beginning of each quarter, the Office of Student Services 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

The athletic fields located across from 1415 Barclay Circle are not general use facilities. All activities must be pre-approved by the Department of Athletics (770-426-2616) before being held on the fields. A pass is signed and issued by the Department of Athletics.

Users of the fields will be asked to produce the pass, which outlines the organization using the field, the date and time of use granted.  Use of the facilities is a privilege for the Life University community and these steps are necessary to identify the people accessing the facilities. 

FIREARMS AND WEAPONS

Firearms and Weapons Policy

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 or the Executive Director of Student Services. For further information, please refer to the Honor Code.

GRADUATION CEREMONIES

GRADUATION CEREMONIES

Life University holds four graduation exercises on campus per year for the College of Chiropractic and two for the College of Graduate and Undergraduate Studies. Students may only participate in a graduation ceremony if they have completed or are scheduled to complete all requirements by the date of the graduation ceremony. Undergraduate and Master’s students who complete their degree requirements in September will be eligible for the December graduation ceremony.

Undergraduate and Master’s students who complete their degree requirements in March will be eligible for the June graduation ceremony. The University reserves the right to alter the minimum requirements for participation in the graduation ceremonies. No one will be considered as having graduated until all requirements are fulfilled.

Graduate students may participate in the graduation ceremonies if they meet the eligibility requirements as set by the Graduate Faculty (have completed all graduation requirements including having taken, being registered for, or having an IP for their comprehensive exams). 

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES

Life University Grade Appeal Policy

The purpose of the Grade Appeal Policy is to establish a clear, fair process by which students can dispute a course grade. Grade appeals must be based on problems of process and not on differences in judgment or opinion concerning academic performance. The burden of proof rests on the student to demonstrate that one or more of the following criteria exist:

• Administrative error in the calculation and/or assignment of the grade
• The grading decision was determined on basis other than academic performance and other than as a penalty for academic misconduct
• The grading decision was based on standards different from those established in written department/division, college, or university policies (if specific policies exist)
• The instructor of record departed substantially from his/her previously articulated, written standards, without notifying students, in determining the grade
• The grade assignment was due to the student being held to more demanding standards than other students in the same course.
• Only the final course grade may be appealed.

The student will be required to discuss their grade concern with the instructor of record. If the instructor of record is not available within a reasonable time frame (e.g. posting of grades to permit student’s registration in subsequent courses), the department/division chair or their designee may act on behalf of the instructor on record. If the instructor of record and student cannot resolve the grade concern, the student may initiate the grade appeal process.

Exceptions:

The Grade Appeal Policy shall constitute the sole internal administrative remedy for a change in grade, except when the grade being disputed resulted from an alleged academic integrity violation. If a grade dispute arises from an issue that is covered under the university’s Academic Integrity Policy, the process for resolution that has been established for appealing academic integrity violations must be followed. The process for resolution that the Office of Student Conduct has established must be completed prior to the use of the University’s grade appeal process.

Approved May 2, 2016

Grade Appeal Process

1. 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 chair or designee may request additional materials from the student. After receiving a copy of the grade appeal materials, the department/division chair 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 chair

• 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.

Approved May 2, 2016

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 Vice President of Academic Affairs within 30 days of the student’s formal grade appeal.

HAZING POLICY

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:
   1. “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.
   2. “School organization” means any club, society, fraternity, sorority or a group living together, which has students as its principal members.
   3. “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 misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.

For further information, please refer to the Life University Honor Code and Standards of Conduct, questions may be directed to the Director of Student Conduct or the Director of Student Engagement and Leadership.

STUDENT INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY POLICY

Section 1. Introduction

The mission of Life University is to empower each student with the education, skills and values needed for career success and life fulfillment based on a vitalistic philosophy. The University’s undergraduate, graduate and professional programs - each one committed to excellence in teaching, learning, research and the overall student experience - offer a vision and the promise for a meaningful life, the proficiencies necessary to achieve optimum personal performance and the wisdom to become transformational leaders in an increasingly diverse, global and dynamic world. Inherent in these objectives is the need to encourage the development of new and useful devices and processes, the publication of scholarly works, and the development of computer software. Such activities (1) contribute to the professional development of the faculty, staff or students involved, (2) enhance the reputation of the Life University, (3) provide additional educational opportunities for participating students and (4) promote the general welfare of the public at large.

Patentable inventions and materials may come about because of activities of Life University students who have been aided wholly or in part through the use of resources of Life University. It becomes significant, therefore, to ensure the utilization of such inventions for the public good and to expedite their development and marketing. The rights and privileges, as well as the incentive, of the inventor must be preserved so that his or her abilities and those of other faculty, staff or students of Life University may be further encouraged and stimulated.

Life University recognizes and encourages the publication of scholarly works by its students. Life University acknowledges that faculty, staff, or students regularly prepare for publication, usually through individual effort and initiative, articles, pamphlets, books and other scholarly works which may be subject to copyright and which may generate royalty income for the author. Publication may also result from work supported either partially or completely by Life University. With the advent of innovative techniques and procedures the variety and number of materials which might be created in a university community have increased significantly, causing the ownership of such copyrightable materials to become increasingly complex.

Life University recognizes the need for enhanced development and dissemination of software technology as a means of expressing both old and new knowledge. Inasmuch as Life University is aware of the dynamic nature of software and that the value of intellectual property comes from the ability of its owner to control its use and that such value is directly related to the degree of protection it enjoys under the law, Life University seeks to protect such expressions of knowledge by the utilization of Intellectual Property Policy for Students (Approved: December 13, 2010), which outlines appropriate intellectual property laws and the creation of comprehensive software technology transfer policies and procedures.

Accordingly, Life University does hereby establish the following policy with respect to the development, protection, and transfer of rights to Intellectual Property resulting from the work of its students.

Section 2. Definitions

“Intellectual Property” shall be deemed to refer to patentable materials, copyrighted materials, trademarks, software and trade secrets, whether or not formal protection is sought.

“Patentable Materials” shall be deemed to refer to (1) a novel plant variety of a sexually reproduced plant, as described in 7 U.S.C. 2321 et seq., (2) a patentable plant, as described in 35 U.S.C. 161 and (3) items other than software which reasonably appear to qualify for protection under the patent laws of the United States or other protective statutes, whether or not patentable thereunder.

“Copyrighted Materials” shall include the following: (1) books, journal articles, texts, glossaries, bibliographies, study guides, laboratory manuals, syllabi, tests and proposals; (2) lectures, musical or dramatic compositions, unpublished scripts; (3) films, filmstrips, charts, transparencies and other visual aids; (4) video and audio tapes or cassettes; (5) live video and audio broadcasts; (6) programmed instructional materials; (7) mask works; and (8) other materials or works other than software which qualify for protection under the copyright laws of the United States (see 17 U.S.C. 102 et seq.) or other protective statutes whether or not registered there under.

“Software” shall include one or more computer programs existing in any form, or any associated operational procedures, manuals or other documentation, whether or not protectable or protected by patent or copyright. The term “computer program” shall mean a set of instructions, statements or related data that, in actual or modified form, is capable of causing a computer or computer system to perform specified functions.

“Trademarks” shall include all trademarks, service marks, trade names, seals, symbols, designs, slogans or logotypes developed by or associated with the University System or any of its institutions. (See 15 U.S.C. 1127.)

“Trade Secrets” means information including, but not limited to, technical or nontechnical data, a formula, a pattern, a compilation, a program, a device, a method, a technique, a drawing, a process, financial data, financial plans, product plans or a list of actual or potential customers or suppliers which: (i) derives economic value, actual or potential, from not being generally known to, and not being readily ascertainable by proper means by, other persons who can obtain economic value from its disclosure or use; and (ii) is the subject of efforts that are reasonable under the circumstances to maintain its secrecy. (See O.C.G.A. 10-1-761.)

Section 3. Determination of Rights and Equities in Intellectual Property

Rights and equities in intellectual property created by Life University students shall be determined by Life University based upon the property’s inclusion in one of the following categories:

1. Sponsor-Supported Efforts: A grant or contract between the sponsor and Life University, under which Intellectual Property is produced, may contain specific provisions with respect to disposition of rights to these materials. The sponsor (1) may specify that the materials be placed in the public domain, (2) may claim reproduction, license-free use or other rights, or (3) may assign all rights to the Institution. In those cases where royalty income is realized by Life University, the inventor or creator may appropriately share in the royalty income. The nature and extent of inventor or creator participation in royalty income, however, shall be subject to sponsor and negotiation between student and Life University through Life University’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.
2. Life University-Assigned Efforts: Ownership of Intellectual Property developed as a result of assigned institutional effort shall reside with Life University; however, sharing of royalty income with the inventor or creator is authorized as an incentive to encourage further development of Intellectual Property. The nature and extent of inventor or creator participation in royalty income, however, shall be subject to negotiation between student and Life University through Life University’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.
3. Life University-Assisted Individual Effort: Ownership of Intellectual Property developed by students of Life University where Life University provides support of their efforts or use of Life University resources in more than a purely incidental way (unless such resources are available without charge to the public) shall be shared by the student inventor or creator and Life University. The nature and extent of inventor or creator participation in royalty income, however, shall be subject to negotiation between the student creator or inventor and Life University through Life University’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.
4. Individual Effort: Rights to Intellectual Property developed by students of Life University shall reside with the inventor or creator of such Intellectual Property provided that: (1) there is no use except in a purely incidental way, of Life University resources in the creation of such Intellectual Property (unless such resources are available without charge to the public); (2) the Intellectual Property is not prepared in accordance with the terms of a Life University contract or grant; (3) the Intellectual Property is not developed by students as a specific Life University assignment. The nature and extent of the use of institution resources shall be subject to Life University regulations and shall be determined by the Life University Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.
5. Other Efforts: Ownership rights to Intellectual Property developed under any circumstances other than those listed in Section 3. A.-D. of this policy shall be determined on an individual basis and approved by the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Life University or his or her designated representative. The nature and extent of inventor or creator participation in royalty income, however, shall be subject to negotiation between the student creator or inventor and Life University through Life University’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

Section 4. Intellectual Property Committee

Intellectual Property activities shall be under the general cognizance of the Life University Intellectual Property Committee. This committee shall consist of the current Research Advisory Council and two guest representatives from the Conduct Review Board. In the event that a meeting is necessary, recommendations from the Intellectual Property Committee will be forwarded to the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; who will review and make final decision.

The Committee shall have the responsibility of (1) recommending to the Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer the rights and equities in Intellectual Property, (2) recommending changes in policy and procedure pertaining to Intellectual Property, (3) providing communication with Life University personnel as to the proper procedures for identifying and protecting Intellectual Property and (4) recommending the disposition of all Intellectual Property. The disposition of Intellectual Property shall fall into one of three categories of recommendations to the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer: (1) approval of the appropriate Intellectual Property protection by Life University, (2) recommendation of rejection and releasing of rights in the Intellectual Property to the inventor/author or (3) recommendation that Life University has no rights in the Intellectual Property.

Section 5. Intellectual Property Policy Applicability to Students

The Intellectual Property policy of Life University shall apply to all Life University part-time, full-time or auditing students. For the purpose of application of this policy, the term “Life University student” is defined to include all part-time, full-time or auditing students.

Life University students shall promptly report to the Intellectual Property Committee in writing, through the Office of Sponsored Research and Scholarly Activity, all Intellectual Property invented or created by them which is reasonably likely to have commercial value and shall provide such information and upon such forms as the Office may request. The Office of Sponsored Research and Scholarly Activity will forward this information to the Intellectual Property Committee along with a request that the Committee recommend to the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer the rights and equities in the Intellectual Property.

Life University students may request the use of administrative structure associated with the Intellectual Property policy of Life University to pursue intellectual property in which they would normally have full rights, as described herein at Section 3.D., “Individual Effort.” In exchange and consideration for this service, the individual will be required to assign to Life University or its designee, his or her rights in the Intellectual Property. The inventor/author shall share in royalties as agreed upon by the inventor/author and Life University of its designee.

Section 6. Administration of the Consideration of Rights in Intellectual Policy

1. The Director of Office of Sponsored Research and Scholarly Activity shall administer the principles and policies set forth herein.

2. If the administration of Life University decides not to pursue development of the Intellectual Property, or takes no specific action which indicates an intent to do so, within 120 days after the receipt of the Intellectual Property report by the Office of Sponsored Research and Scholarly Activity, all rights may revert to the inventor/author upon written request.

3. If Life University pursues development of the Intellectual Property it shall take action within 270 days after the issuance of the final, written recommendation of the Intellectual Property Committee. If Life University fails to act within this period, all rights may revert to the inventor/author upon written request.

4. If Life University pursues development of the Intellectual Property but subsequently abandons such pursuit, all rights revert to the inventor/author upon written request.

5. The division of any net revenues generated as a result of the licensure, sale or other development of any Intellectual Property developed in this Policy shall be in accordance with Section F. For purposes of this policy, “net revenues” is defined as gross revenues less any expenditures borne by Life University, the Board of Trustees of Life University, Life University Office of Sponsored Research and Scholarly Activity or their designees in obtaining protection for the development of Intellectual Property, and any and all expenditures incurred by Life University, the Board of Trustees of Life University, Life University Office of Sponsored Research and Scholarly Activity or their designees, in contemplation of or the maintenance of any litigation or controversy between any parties involving rights under such Intellectual Property.

6. Where royalty or other revenue is received by the University as a result of successful commercialization of an invention by a license or the like, the University will share such revenue with the inventor(s). The inventor(s) will normally receive 40 percent of the first twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) revenue, 35 percent of the second twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) revenue, and 30 percent of any additional revenue from his/her or their invention which is received by the University, after the University has been reimbursed for developmental, marketing, patent protection and related expenses incurred in connection with a particular invention. In those cases where the invention is made under a grant sponsored by a governmental or private agency.

The inventor’s share will vary in accordance with the terms of the grant. Where co-inventors are involved, they shall share the inventor’s portion of the revenue equally, unless there is an agreement between the inventors that establishes a different distribution.

When an inventor actively cooperates and contributes to the development and marketing of an invention, the deduction made from revenue for developmental expenses is reduced and the inventor’s royalty is accordingly increased as to total amount.

Any net revenue accruing to the University from commercial use of University-owned intellectual property shall be used first to defray research and product development expenses, to pay application royalties and, thereafter, for technological and scientific research.

The University, at its sole discretion, may release to an inventor, by written instrument only, those inventions owned by, but not of interest to the University. Requests for such releases should be made to the Executive Vice and Chief Financial Officer.

If Life University assigns the Intellectual Property to an outside party or affiliated nonprofit corporation for development and if that party abandons pursuit of the Intellectual Property or takes no specific action which indicates an intent to pursue development of the Intellectual Property within the scope of its agreement with Life University, within 90 days or within the time specified by the contract of assignment, all rights to the Intellectual Property shall revert to the Life University for a period of 90 days. If Life University fails to take action to exploit the Intellectual Property within said 90 days, all rights in the Intellectual Property shall revert to the inventor/author upon written request.

Section 7. Appeals

Life University students shall have the right to appeal the decision of the Intellectual Property Committee. Appeals shall be made in writing to the Provost of Life University within 30 days of the final decision of the executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. The student shall state the decision complained of and the redress desired.

In the event that the outcome of the appeals process to the Provost does not meet the student’s expectations, the student may request that a review of the decision be conducted by the Office of the President with final option of review presented to the Board of Trustees through the executive office.

Section 8. Conflicts with Trustees’ Policies

In the event of a conflict between this policy and the official Patent Policy of the Board of Trustees, the latter shall prevail.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Life University offers the following services to international students through a partnership with International Programs and Student Services.

International Programs/Enrollment Services:

• Advises students on current F1, USCIS, and CBP policies and guidelines related to international students.
• Completes SEVIS registration and provides initial Form I-20 for newly admitted international students seeking F1 visa status.
• Updates SEVIS registration and Form I-20 to reflect changes in personal information (address, telephone number, etc.), program of study, registration (program extensions, reduced course load requests, transfers, graduation, withdrawal etc.) and/or enrollment status.
• Assists and advises students throughout the Optional Practical Training application process.
• Verifies eligibility of international students for on-campus employment and reports student employment within SEVIS.
• Provide travel endorsement (annually) for those F1 students intending to travel outside of the United States.

Student Services:

• Acculturation
• Assistance connecting to other resources on campus
• Academic Advising

International Student Rules, Regulations & Procedures

It is the responsibility of the international student to maintain lawful immigration status. The student is responsible for fully and properly complying with all U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Department of Homeland Security, and Student Exchange and Visitor Program rules and regulations, as well as those of the federal, state, and local government.

Immigration Documentation

It is the international student’s responsibility to ensure that all visa and immigration documentation is valid, accurate and up to date. This includes, but is not limited to, student’s Form I-20s, passports, and visas. Passports should remain valid at all times. Students should contact their local embassy for renewal instructions if their passport will expire within the next six months. In order to enter and reenter the United States, students must possess a valid, unexpired visa. If a student’s visa has expired or will expire while traveling outside of the United States, they must apply for a new visa before entering the United States (certain exceptions may apply). Students are strongly encouraged to contact their DSO, USCIS, and/or the United States Customs and Border Protection agency for guidance.

Designated School Official (DSO) Reporting

F-1 Students must contact their DSO immediately if:

• Moving to a new address
• Requesting a program extension or Reduced Course Load Authorization
• Changing programs, majors, or degree levels
• Traveling outside of the United States
• Taking a leave of absence or transferring to a new school
• Failure to notify DSO may result in student being out of status and termination of student form I-20.
• Employment
• F-1 students may receive work authorization through their DSO in certain cases such as:
• On-campus, part-time employment
• OPT (Optional Practical Training)
• CPT (Curricular Practical Training)

Working without prior DSO authorization and approval will result in termination of student’s I-20. The student must then leave the United States immediately and future entrance may be inhibited or barred.

Academic Guidelines

International students must maintain both a full course load and minimum GPA requirements in a degree seeking program. A full course load for international students and minimum GPA requirements are defined as follows:

Doctor of Chiropractic Program

International students enrolled in the Doctor of Chiropractic program must enroll in a minimum of 12 quarter hours per academic term and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA.

Undergraduate Studies

International students enrolled in an undergraduate program as their primary program of study must enroll in a minimum of 12 quarter hours per academic term and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA.

Graduate Studies

International students enrolled in a graduate program as their primary program of study must enroll in a minimum 9 quarter hours per academic term and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Exceptions to Full Course of Study

In certain instances, international students may be approved to enroll in a reduced course load. In most cases, students may be enrolled in a reduced course load for a maximum of one academic term. Requests for reduced course load approval must be resubmitted on a quarterly basis.  A reduced course load is defined as follows:

Doctor of Chiropractic Program

Minimum 6 quarter hours

Undergraduate Studies

Minimum 6 quarter hours

Graduate Studies

Minimum 6 quarter hours

The following are eligible reasons for a reduced course load request and approval:

• Withdrawal due to improper course level placement
• Initial difficulty with the English language and/or with reading requirements
• Unfamiliarity with U.S. teaching methods or reading requirements
• Medical Conditions 

• Student is in final term of study

International students are responsible for arranging reduced course load approval with their DSO and providing all requested documentation prior to enrollment.

Annual Vacation

Eligible students may take one annual vacation break per year for a duration of one quarter. Students are eligible for annual vacation only after completing three consecutive quarters of study, maintaining a full course load, and meeting minimum GPA requirements. Upon returning from annual vacation, students must enroll in a full course load for three consecutive quarters in order to be eligible for an additional annual break.

Distance learning and Transient Studies:

These courses are limited for F-1 students and international students may only count a maximum of 1 course of distance learning toward their full-time course load requirements. Audited courses do not count towards a full course load requirement. International students who would like to engage in transient studies (meaning interested in taking courses at another Student and Exchange Visitor Program, SEVP, approved institution) must receive prior approval by their DSO.

INVOLUNTARY LEAVE POLICY

Involuntary Leave Policy

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 Services 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 Services 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 Services, 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 Services, or his/her designee, who will then carry out the procedure set forth below.

The Vice President of Student Services 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 Services 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 Services or his/her designee may require the student to be evaluated by an appropriate mental health professional.

Evaluation

The Vice President of Student Services 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 Services 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 Services, 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 Executive Director of Student Services 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

(a) there is imminent danger of serious physical harm to the student or others,

(b) there is imminent danger of significant property damage,

(c) the student is unable or unwilling to meet with the Vice President of Student Services or his/her designee,

(d) the student refuses to complete the mandatory evaluation, or

(e) the Vice President of Student Services 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 Services 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 Provost, 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 Services 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 Services or his/her designee. The Vice President of Student Services 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 Services 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 Services 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

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 harassment.

This nondiscrimination policy applies to all employment practices at Life University, and to the admission process as well as access to treatment in and employment in Life’s educational programs and activities. Students who have inquiries regarding Life’s nondiscrimination policy may contact the Director of Student Conduct at 770-426-2700.

Dr. Lisa Rubin, Director of the Student Success Center, is the Life employee who coordinates Life’s efforts to comply with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act for students.  Dr. Rubin can be contacted through the Student Success Center at 770-426-2725.

READMISSION

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.

SEXUAL OFFENSES AND HARASSMENT

Life University reaffirms the principal that its students, administration, faculty and staff have a right to be free from sexual misconduct. Sexual misconduct 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, and stalking. Sexual misconduct is prohibited by this policy, as well as federal law. Life will take seriously every allegation or report of sexual misconduct received. The University will not tolerate sexual misconduct and wants to make clear that sexual misconduct is reprehensible in any situation.

Inquiries or complaints regarding reports of sexual misconduct may be made to the University’s Interim Title IX Coordinator Rebecca Koch at 770-426-2910 or via email at TitleIX@LIFE.edu or Title9@LIFE.edu.   

TOBACCO- AND SMOKE-FREE CAMPUS

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.

SOLICITING ON CAMPUS

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 fund-raising 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 Services.

Life University Student Organizations must have all fundraising activities approved by the Office of Student Services. 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 RECORDS

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.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their dependent children’s education records. These rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond the high school level. Students to whom the rights have transferred are “eligible students.” Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), parents and eligible students have the following rights:

Right to Inspect and Review Education Record

Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review their or their dependent children’s education records maintained by the school. Schools are not required to provide copies of records unless, for reasons such as great distance, it is impossible for parents or eligible students to review the records. Schools may charge a fee for copies.

Right to Amend Education Record

Parents or eligible students have the right to request that a school amend records which they believe to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student then has the right to a formal hearing. After the hearing, if the school still decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student has the right to place a statement with the record setting forth his or her view about the contested information.

Right to Consent to Disclosure

Generally, schools must have written permission from the parent or eligible student in order to release any information from a student’s education record.

Right to File a Complaint

Parents or eligible students have a right to file a complaint if the parent or eligible student feels the institution failed to comply with FERPA. To file a complaint contact:

The Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Ave., SW

Washington, DC 20202-8520

However, FERPA allows schools to disclose education records without consent to the following parties or under the following conditions (34 CFR § 99.31):

• School officials with legitimate educational interest
• Specified officials for audit or evaluation purposes
• Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student
• Organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the school
• Accrediting organizations
• To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena
• Appropriate officials in cases of health and safety emergencies and state and local authorities, within a juvenile justice system, pursuant to specific state law. Schools may disclose, without consent, “directory” information such as a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and dates of attendance. However, schools must tell parents and eligible students about directory information and allow parents and eligible students a reasonable amount of time to request that the school not disclose directory information about them. Schools must notify parents and eligible students annually of their rights under FERPA. The actual means of notification (special letter, inclusion in a school bulletin, student handbook, or newspaper article) is left to the discretion of each school.
• In a health or safety emergency
• To schools in which a student seeks or intends to enroll
• Results of a disciplinary hearing to an alleged victim of a crime of violence
• Final results of a disciplinary hearing concerning a student who is an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence and who is found to have committed a violation of the institution’s rules or policies
• Disclosure to a parent of a student under 21 if the institution determines that the student has committed a violation of its drug or alcohol rules or policies
• Disclosure of information received under a community notification program concerning a student who is required to register as a sex offender in the state

Life University’s policy (under FERPA) gives the student the right:

1. To inspect his/her records. All requests for inspection must be submitted in writing. The University has up to 45 days to respond. (Every effort will be made to fill the request in a timely manner.)
   1. All students must give written permission for a third party to obtain any information from their files. The person(s) and/or organization’s name, date and purpose of the file review will remain logged in the student’s file. Also, the person and department who authorized the review will be noted.
   2. If a student is dependent, the parent may review the student’s file without written permission. Check with the specific department for age requirements determining dependent status. Neither parents nor spouses of our students can obtain grade or registration information without the written consent of the student, on file in the Registrar’s Office.
2. To amend a record he/she believes is inaccurate. The student must write the University official responsible for the record, identify that part of the record he/she wants changed, and specify why it is inaccurate. The University will notify the student of the decision within 45 days and advise the student of the right to a hearing if the record was not amended to the student’s request.
3. To request a hearing. The student will be notified within 45 days of the request with the time, place and procedure of the hearing. The department which has authority for the change request will provide the committee and the procedures for the hearing.
4. To file a complaint if he/she feels the institution failed to comply with FERPA regulations. To file a complaint contact:

The Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Ave., SW

Washington, DC 20202-8520

“Directory information” is information not generally considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. Includes, but is not limited to:

• name, address, telephone number
• date and place of birth
• weight and height of athletes
• dates of attendance
• field of study
• degrees and awards
• most recent/previous school attended
• participation in officially recognized activities and sports

Students who wish to be omitted from the directory or any other student publication must inform the Registrar’s Office in writing. The option may be changed once a year only.

Life University publishes an email directory on its website.

Possible Federal and State Data Collection and Use

As of January 3, 2012, the U.S. Department of Education’s FERPA regulations expand the circumstances under which your education records and personally identifiable information (PII) contained in such records—including your Social Security Number, grades or other private information—may be accessed without your consent. First, the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education, or state and local education authorities (“Federal and State Authorities”) may allow access to your records and PII without your consent to any third party designated by a Federal or State Authority to evaluate a federal- or state-supported education program. The evaluation may relate to any program that is “principally engaged in the provision of education,” such as early childhood education and job training, as well as any program that is administered by an education agency or institution. Second, Federal and State Authorities may allow access to your education records and PII without your consent to researchers performing certain types of studies, in certain cases even when we object to or do not request such research. Federal and State Authorities must obtain certain use-restriction and data security promises from the entities that they authorize to receive your PII, but the Authorities need not maintain direct control over such entities. In addition, in connection with Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems, State Authorities may collect, compile, permanently retain and share without your consent PII from your education records, and they may track your participation in education and other programs by linking such PII to other personal information about you that they obtain from other Federal or State data sources, including workforce development, unemployment insurance, child welfare, juvenile justice, military service and migrant student records systems.

WITHDRAWAL FROM THE UNIVERSITY

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

For students who have followed the withdrawal procedures outlined in the preceding section, the date the student notified the University of their “intent to withdraw” will be the official date of withdrawal.

If a student fails to notify Life University that they have stopped attending classes, then Life University will determine the student’s withdrawal date by checking available attendance records. In the event that the last day of attendance cannot be determined, the mid-point of the quarter will be used.

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 percent 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 percent” point of the quarter, no return of Title IV funds will be required. Samples of “Return of Title IV Funds” calculations are available upon request from either the offices of Financial Aid or Student Accounting.

For students enrolled in the full quarter 11-week classes, the after 60 percent point of quarter is the 46th day (Thursday of the 7th week);

For students enrolled in the 5-week accelerated classes, the after 60 percent point of quarter is the 23rd day (Tuesday of the 4th week - 1st 5 weeks and Thursday of the 9th week - 2nd 5 weeks);

For any MS students enrolled in the summer quarter 5-week classes, the after 60 percent point of quarter is the 23rd day (Thursday of the 4th week).

Students who earn a grade (other than “W, WF or WNP”) in at least one course in a quarter will not be considered withdrawn but remaining courses will be dropped.

Life University will refund the appropriate amounts according to the specific order of priority as prescribed in the law and regulation.