Student Success and Academic Standing

The College of Allied Health Professions (CAHP) is dedicated to assisting all students in gaining the necessary knowledge, skills and professional behaviors that will allow them to reach their full potential as competent and compassionate health care practitioners. Students enrolled in programs in the CAHP are expected to make satisfactory academic progress toward completion of program requirements, and must meet specific performance standards set by each program. Where appropriate, those standards are established to be congruent with standards set by the specialized accrediting agency for each program. The intent of these CAHP policies is to standardize the terminology used to describe student academic standing, foster sound, learner-centered assessment of student performance, and maximize the likelihood of academic success for every student.

1. Evaluation of Student Performance

1.1. Each program of study in the CAHP uses a system of regular and consistent evaluations, coupled with formative and summative feedback, to assure fair evaluation of student learning and to allow for early detection, notification and remediation of less than satisfactory academic performance. Course grades are based on evaluation of professional behaviors, theoretical and experiential knowledge, and technical competence. The evaluation system includes:

1.1.1. Evaluation of the domains of learning appropriate for the particular course or clinical rotation and consideration for the length of the program. Domains evaluated will include the cognitive (knowledge), affective (professional behavior), and psychomotor (experiential competencies);

1.1.2. A description of the minimal level of performance in the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains required to attain a passing grade in each course or clinical rotation;

1.1.3. A description of how the final grade in each course or clinical rotation is derived from the areas evaluated.

1.2. Students will be informed in writing of the expectations in all three learning domains at the beginning of the program, each course, and clinical rotation. 1.3. The final grade earned in each course or clinical rotation is determined by the course instructor(s). Each academic program will establish criteria for satisfactory completion of each required course as well as criteria for determining the academic standing and progression of a student, based on the process outlined in this document.   1.4. Student appeal of a grade or other academic evaluation

1.4.1. A student may make an appeal of a grade or evaluation that they believe is improper or unfair by discussing the matter with the instructor.

1.4.2. If a satisfactory agreement between the student and the instructor cannot be reached, the student may appeal in writing to the Program Director.

1.4.3. If the matter cannot be resolved through discussion with the Program Director, the student may further appeal through the process described in section 3.9 of this document.

2. Academic Standing of CAHP Students

Within the parameters established below, programs within the College of Allied Health Professions will designate the current Academic Standing of each student. All students will be considered to have an Academic Standing of Satisfactory upon entry into the program, and any changes in Academic Standing will be reported to the student and to the CAHP Director of Student Services, who is responsible for securely maintaining individual and aggregate records of academic status, progression, remediation, and sanctions for all CAHP students.

3. Academic Standing Defined

At any given time, students in the CAHP will be designated by their Program Director or designee as having an Academic Standing in one of the following categories: (These terms refer strictly to Academic Standing and should not be confused with Satisfactory Academic Progress used to determine financial aid status.)

3.1. Satisfactory

3.1.1. All students entering a CAHP program are considered to have an Academic Standing of Satisfactory. No transcript notation will be made for this standing; absence of other notation implies satisfactory academic standing.

3.1.2. Programs are encouraged to identify at-risk students as early as possible, provide advice on potential sources of assistance, and follow up as needed to maximize chances of students’ academic success.

3.2. Formal Remediation

3.2.1. Formal Remediation is the first level of academic performance action, and it cannot be appealed. Notation of Formal Remediation does not appear on the student’s transcript.

3.2.2. Formal Remediation may be imposed in any instance in which academic work and/or professional conduct has been or is unsatisfactory as determined by the program director with input from the faculty as appropriate.

3.2.3. The Program Director or designee will provide the student with a written Notice of Formal Remediation which includes a proposed remediation plan and a time to meet with the director to approve that plan or to discuss alternatives to that plan. The remediation plan must include a specified timeline of activities and a deadline for satisfactory completion of the plan.

3.2.4. Once the remediation plan is agreed upon and signed by both the student and the Program Director or designee, a copy is provided to the student and the CAHP Director of Student Services.

3.2.5. By the deadline for successful completion of the remediation plan:

3.2.5.1. The student must either satisfactorily complete the remediation plan, in which case the student’s Academic Standing will immediately return to Satisfactory, or

3.2.5.2 The Program Director or designee may amend the completion date for the remediation plan, or

3.2.5.3. The student may be assigned a standing of Academic Probation.

3.3. Academic Probation

3.3.1. Academic Probation is the second level of academic performance action, and it cannot be appealed. Notation of Academic Probation does not appear on the student’s transcript.

3.3.2. Academic Probation may be imposed in any instance in which academic work and/or professional conduct is unsatisfactory, as determined by the Program Director with input from the faculty as appropriate.

3.3.3. The Program Director or designee will provide the student with a Notice of Academic Probation that includes a proposed remediation plan and a time to meet with the director to approve that plan or to discuss alternatives to that plan. The remediation plan must include a specified timeline of activities and a deadline for satisfactory completion of the plan.

3.3.4. Once the remediation plan is agreed upon and signed by both the student and the Program Director, the Program Director or designee must provide a copy to the student and the CAHP Director of Student Services.

3.3.5. The CAHP Director of Student Services will file an internal Change of Status form showing Academic Probation, including the student’s signature to acknowledge the change of status.

3.3.6. If a student successfully completes the remediation plan, the Program Director or designee will provide a Notification of Return to Satisfactory Standing to the student and the CAHP Director of Student Services, documenting the student’s return to Satisfactory Academic Standing. Should this return to Satisfactory Academic Standing happen simultaneously with the student’s program completion, then the Notification of Return to Satisfactory Standing must be provided prior to graduation.

3.3.7. If a student has not met the conditions of the remediation plan in the time specified:

3.3.7.1. The Program Director or designee may amend the completion date for the remediation plan, and the student will maintain the Academic Status of Academic Probation until a revised remediation plan is successfully completed. More severe sanctions require approval by the Executive Associate Dean.

3.4. Required Academic Leave of Absence

3.4.1. A Required Leave of Absence cannot be appealed. Notation of Required Leave of Absence will appear on the student’s transcript as Leave of Absence.

3.4.2. A Required Leave of Absence may be invoked:

3.4.2.1. When a student has failed to satisfactorily complete two or more required courses in a single semester;

3.4.2.2. When a student has failed to complete a remediation plan on time while being on Academic Probation;

3.4.2.3. As an alternative to Dismissal or Withdrawal.

3.4.3. The Program Director or designee will provide the student with a Notice of Required Leave of Absence that includes a proposed remediation plan upon their return from the leave of absence and a time to meet with the director to approve that plan or to discuss alternatives to that plan. The remediation plan must include a specified timeline of activities, and a deadline for satisfactory completion of the plan. The proposal for return must include the following:

3.4.3.1. Any administrative actions that should accompany this change of status, including consultation with financial aid for financial implications of taking a leave of absence;

3.4.3.2. Instructions that include a specified deadline by which the student must provide the Program Director and the CAHP Director of Student Services with written notice of intent to return;

3.4.3.3. A plan of study to be completed upon the student’s return to the program, specifically noting if the student will be placed on a decelerated plan of study and the student’s academic standing at the time of return.

3.4.4. Once the plan of study is agreed upon and signed by both the student and the Program Director, the Program Director or designee must provide a copy to the student and the CAHP Director of Student Services.

3.4.5. The student is required to consult with the UNMC Financial Aid Office prior to finalizing a Leave of Absence, as the LOA can affect a student’s Satisfactory Academic Progress status and eligibility for future financial aid. (UNMC LOA Policy)

3.4.6. The student must consult with the CAHP Director of Student Services prior to beginning the Leave of Absence. The CAHP Director of Student Services will then file a Change of Status form for the student with the UNMC Registrar.

3.4.7. Upon receipt of the student’s notice of intent to return from leave of absence, the CAHP Director of Student Services will file a Change of Status for the student with the UNMC Registrar to facilitate the student’s return to the program.

3.5. Personal Leave of Absence

3.5.1. A Personal Leave of Absence may be requested in writing from the student to the Program Director. A request for a Personal Leave of Absence for documented medical or ADA reasons may not be denied. A denial of a Personal Leave of Absence request requires approval by the Executive Associate Dean.

3.5.2. If a Personal Leave of Absence request is denied, a student may appeal that decision, as outlined in section 3.9 of this document. Notation of Personal Leave of Absence will appear on a student’s transcript as Leave of Absence.

3.5.3. If the Personal Leave of Absence is approved, the Program Director or designee must propose a plan of study to be followed on return to the program, including a specified timeline of activities, and a deadline for satisfactory completion of the plan. The proposal for return must include the following:

3.5.3.1. Any administrative actions that should accompany this change of status, including consultation with financial aid for financial implications of taking a leave of absence;

3.5.3.2. Notice of the date by which the student must provide to the Program Director and the CAHP Director of Student Services written notice of intent to return to the program;

3.5.3.3. A plan of study to be completed upon the student’s return to the program, noting if the student will be placed on a decelerated plan of study upon return, and specifying the student’s academic standing at the time of return.

3.5.4. Once the plan of study is agreed upon and signed by both the student and the Program Director, the Program Director or designee must provide a copy to the student and the CAHP Director of Student Services.

3.5.5. The student is required to consult with the UNMC Financial Aid Office prior to finalizing a Leave of Absence, as the LOA can affect a student’s Satisfactory Academic Progress status and eligibility for future financial aid (UNMC LOA Policy)

3.5.6. The student must consult with the CAHP Director of Student Services prior to beginning the Personal Leave of Absence. The CAHP Director of Student Services will then file a Change of Status form for the student with the UNMC Registrar.

3.5.7. Upon receipt of the student’s notice of intent to return from leave of absence, the CAHP Director of Student Services will file a Change of Status for the student with the UNMC Registrar to facilitate the student’s return to the program.

3.6. Withdrawal

3.6.1. The student must consult with the Program Director regarding decision to withdraw prior to submitting a written request for withdrawal. The student must request a withdrawal in writing to the Program Director and the CAHP Director of Student Services.

3.6.2. Withdrawn is a final status. If a withdrawal request is denied because the Program Director believes there are grounds for dismissal of the student at the time of the request for withdrawal, the student may appeal that decision, as outlined in section 3.9 Appeal Process. Notation of Withdrawn will appear on the student’s transcript with the date that the withdrawal is effective.

3.6.3. Once the Program Director accepts the written documentation of withdrawal from the student, the Program Director must acknowledge approval of the withdrawal in writing and provide a copy to the student and the CAHP Director of Student Services.

3.6.4. The student must consult with the CAHP Director of Student Services prior to leaving the program. The CAHP Director of Student Services will file a Change of Status for the student with the UNMC Registrar.

3.6.5. The student will be advised to consult with financial aid.

3.7. Academic Dismissal

3.7.1. The Program Director must consult with the Executive Associate Dean prior to informing a student of an impending Academic Dismissal. At that time, the Program Director must provide to the CAHP Executive Associate Dean the rationale for and policies relevant to the proposed Academic Dismissal.

3.7.1.1. In situations of compromised safety in a clinical setting, the Program Director may issue an academic suspension. All clinical activities will be suspended pending a decision on the appropriate action to be taken.

3.7.2. Dismissed is a final status mandated by the program for unsatisfactory academic performance, and does not require student assent. A student may appeal this action, as outlined in section 3.9 of this document. Notation of Dismissed will appear on the student’s transcript along with the effective date of the dismissal.

3.7.3. The Program Director and the CAHP Executive Associate Dean should meet jointly with any student being informed of academic dismissal. At that time, the Program Director must provide the student with written notice of the dismissal, including reasons for dismissal and any relevant policy citation.

3.7.4. The CAHP Director of Student Services and the Executive Associate Dean will then meet with the student to advise the student of the appeal process. The CAHP Director of Student Services will file a Change of Status for the student with the UNMC Registrar and advise the student to consult with financial aid.

3.8. CAHP Minimum Requirements for Graduation

3.8.1. Students must successfully complete all required courses with final grades deemed satisfactory based on program-specific criteria.

3.8.2. A student’s Academic Standing upon completion of the program must be Satisfactory. Confirmation of Satisfactory Academic Standing must be documented by the CAHP Director of Student Services prior to graduation.

3.9. Formal Appeal Process

3.9.1. A student may formally appeal any of the following academic decisions within one month of written notification to the student:

3.9.1.1. Denied request to change a grade or other academic evaluation,

3.9.1.2. Denied request for Personal Leave of Absence;

3.9.1.3. Denied request for Withdrawal, or

3.9.1.4. Mandated Dismissal.

3.9.2. A student may appeal any of these decisions to the CAHP Executive Associate Dean. Such an appeal must be in writing and include the rationale for the appeal. The student will then be scheduled to meet with the CAHP Executive Associate Dean to discuss the student’s circumstances and rationale for the appeal. After that consultation with the student, the CAHP Executive Associate Dean must either:

3.9.2.1. Uphold the academic decision (See 3.9.3), or

3.9.2.2. Overturn the academic decision (See 3.9.4).

3.9.3. If the CAHP Executive Associate Dean upholds the academic decision, the student may:

3.9.3.1. Accept the decision by the CAHP Executive Associate Dean, or

3.9.3.2. Appeal the decision by the CAHP Executive Associate Dean and request in writing that the appeal be presented to the CAHP Student Appeals Committee. The student must submit this request no later than two weeks after the decision was upheld.

3.9.3.2.1. The CAHP Executive Associate Dean will then submit the written request from the student, along with the rationale presented from the student, to the Chair of the CAHP Student Appeals Committee.

3.9.3.2.2. Upon receipt of the request, the Chair of the CAHP Student Appeals committee will forward copies to all members of the committee and to appropriate faculty.

3.9.3.2.3. The CAHP Student Appeals committee will meet to determine how to best handle the appeal. The committee may, but is not required to, grant the request for a hearing, or may decide that a closed investigation is adequate. The committee must grant a formal hearing if one is requested by the student in cases involving academic dismissal.

3.9.3.2.4. The Chair will request that the Program Director or designee submit any materials that were used in making the original decision. The committee may also request that the student supply additional clarification in writing or by interview.

3.9.3.2.5. If the committee schedules a formal hearing, the student will be notified of the hearing time and place, no less than one week prior to the hearing date. The Chair will:

3.9.3.2.5.1. Conduct the hearing proceedings;

3.9.3.2.5.2. Determine the order of presentation and the relevance of any evidence submitted;

3.9.3.2.5.3. Direct the questioning of any witnesses, and

3.9.3.2.5.4. Insure the hearing is conducted fairly.

3.9.3.2.6. The student must show by the weight of the evidence that the academic decision was improper or unfair. The student may use any evidence deemed proper by the Chair, including affidavits, exhibits and oral testimony. If a student chooses to have a witness testify on their behalf, the student must procure the witness. At any time during the appeal process, the student will be entitled to examine his or her academic records and any materials which were used to make the original decision.

3.9.3.2.7. The student may be assisted by an advisor of their choice during the hearing. The student must inform the Chair of the committee of the advisor’s name at least 24 hours before the hearing. The advisor may assist in formulating the student’s case and may be present at the hearing, but the advisor may not actually participate in the proceedings unless the Chair specifically permits.

3.9.3.2.8. The secretary of the committee will keep minutes of any of its proceedings. The minutes will not include verbatim testimony except in hearings involving academic dismissal. The student may, at their expense, record any hearing or procedure at which the student is present.

3.9.3.2.9. At the conclusion of the formal investigation and hearing (if one is conducted), the committee will determine from the evidence whether to uphold or overturn the academic decision. If the decision of the committee is to overturn the academic decision, the committee shall also specify the academic status of the student. The Chair will submit a report of the committee’s decision in writing to the CAHP Dean.

3.9.3.3. The CAHP Dean will make the final decision based on the findings of the CAHP Student Appeals Committee and notify the student and Program Director. Decisions made by the CAHP Dean are final and cannot be appealed by the program or by the student.

3.9.4.If the CAHP Executive Associate Dean overturns the academic decision, he or she will submit in writing the reasons for overturning the decision to the Program Director, the student, and the CAHP Director of Student Services. The Program Director may appeal the decision of the CAHP Executive Associate Dean in writing to the CAHP Dean within ten days of receipt of the decision.

3.9.4.1. Decisions made by the CAHP Dean regarding such an appeal by a Program Director are final and cannot be appealed.

3.9.4.2. Should the Executive Associate Dean overturn the academic decision made by the Program Director, and:

3.9.4.2.1. Either the Program Director chooses not to appeal, or

3.9.4.2.2. The Program Director appeals and the Dean does not overturn the decision of the Executive Associate Dean:

3.9.4.2.3. The Executive Associate Dean shall determine the academic status of the student and request that the Program Director propose either a plan of study or a remediation plan for the student.

3.9.4.2.4. Upon receipt of the requested plan from the Program Director, the Executive Associate Dean will either approve that plan or make changes to that plan as he or she deems appropriate, after which the Program Director will oversee that plan as approved or amended by the Executive Associate Dean.