Mar 19, 2024  
2022-2023 Graduate Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Regulations And Policies


 

The Office of Graduate Studies at Purdue Fort Wayne oversees all aspects of graduate education at Purdue University Fort Wayne. This includes admissions and records (graduation), new courses, graduate staff employment, and program development. As a unit of the system-wide Graduate School, the Office of Graduate Studies coordinates all activities with Purdue University Graduate School. Policies articulated below are specific to Purdue Fort Wayne. However, a number of policies governing graduate education come directly from the Purdue Graduate School. The Graduate School Policies and Procedures page can be found here: https://catalog.purdue.edu/content.php?catoid=14&navoid=16539. The table below also includes links to Graduate School Policy areas likely to be of particular interest.

General Academic Requirements & Grade Appeals https://catalog.purdue.edu/content.php?catoid=14&navoid=16519

Applications and Admissions

https://catalog.purdue.edu/content.php?catoid=14&navoid=16503

Graduate Student Rights and Responsibilities https://catalog.purdue.edu/content.php?catoid=14&navoid=16513
Advising, Plans of Study, Examinations, and Thesis Policies https://catalog.purdue.edu/content.php?catoid=14&navoid=16498

 

Specific graduate programs may impose additional regulations or exceptions. These appear within the program descriptions for those programs.

 

Click on a link to be taken to the entry below.

Purdue University Fort Wayne Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct


Academic Honesty

Students are expected to adhere to the highest ethical standards in all coursework and research. If a student violates that code of conduct, the student will be subject to disciplinary action, including expulsion and recision of a degree already granted. See the Purdue University Fort Wayne Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct later in this section.

Affirmative Action, Nondiscrimination, and Anti-harassment

Purdue University Fort Wayne is committed to maintaining an inclusive community that recognizes and values the inherent worth and dignity of every person; fosters tolerance, sensitivity, understanding, and mutual respect among its members; and encourages each individual to strive to reach his or her own potential. In pursuit of its goal of academic excellence, the university seeks to develop and nurture its diversity. The university believes that diversity among its many members strengthens the institution, stimulates creativity, promotes the exchange of ideas, and enriches campus life. 

Purdue University Fort Wayne views evaluates and treats all persons in any university-related activity or circumstance in which they may be involved solely as individuals on the basis of their personal abilities, qualifications, and other relevant characteristics. 

Purdue University Fort Wayne prohibits discrimination against any member of the university community on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or status as a veteran. The university will conduct its programs, services, and activities consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and orders and in conformance with the procedures and limitations as set forth in Purdue University’s Equal Opportunity, Equal Access and Affirmative Action policy, which provides specific contractual rights and remedies. Additionally, the university promotes the full realization of equal employment opportunities for women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans through its affirmative action program. 

It is essential that Purdue University Fort Wayne demonstrate its intellectual and ethical leadership by reaffirming its strong position against harassment in all forms. All members of the university community must be able to pursue their goals, educational needs and working lives without intimidation or injury generated by intolerance and harassment. 

Harassment in the workplace or the educational environment is unacceptable conduct and will not be tolerated. Purdue University Fort Wayne is committed to maintaining an educational and work climate for faculty, staff and students that is positive and free from all forms of harassment, including harassment toward individuals for reasons of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, disability, status as a veteran, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. The university will not tolerate harassment of its faculty, staff or students by persons conducting business with or visiting the university, even though such persons are not directly affiliated with the university.

If you have a question or complaint or want advice, you may talk with the Office of Institutional Equity (Kettler Hall 252, 260-481-6106) or with the director of Services for Students with Disabilities (Walb 113, 260-481-6657).

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention

Guidelines for the prevention of alcohol and substance abuse are included in the Student Handbook and Planner. Copies of the handbook are available at various campus locations.

Encumbrances

If students are in arrears to Purdue Fort Wayne, they are not eligible to receive transcripts or diplomas. The clearance of all financial obligations by the Friday before Commencement will be essential for graduation. If the obligation is cleared later, the diploma will be released.

Ethical Guidelines for Purdue University Fort Wayne Information Technology (IT) Users

(Reprinted from Purdue University Fort Wayne Faculty Senate Document SD91-5, as amended December 13, 2010)

The Purdue University Fort Wayne Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct (hereafter, the Code) sets forth general policies and procedures governing the use of university facilities by students. Various university policies establish similar requirements for faculty and staff. The purpose of these guidelines is to interpret these policies and procedures specifically for students, faculty, and staff using the university’s IT facilities.

University IT resources are designed to be used in connection with legitimate, university-related purposes. The use of university IT resources to disseminate obscene, pornographic, or libelous materials; to threaten or harass others; or to otherwise engage in activities forbidden by the Code or university policy is subject to disciplinary action.

Intellectual property rights and responsibilities. Central to an understanding of the rights and responsibilities of IT users is the notion of intellectual property. In brief, this concept holds that materials stored in electronic form are the property of one or more rightful owners. Like any other property, electronically stored information, whether data or programs, can be stolen, altered or destroyed, misappropriated, or plagiarized. Such inappropriate activities violate the Code and university policy and are subject to disciplinary action.

Access rights and responsibilities. The use of lab, e-mail, Web, and other IT resources, including wired and wireless networks, should be focused on facilitating university-related purposes; other uses-for example, using IT resources to conduct a commercial enterprise or private business-constitute theft from the university subject to disciplinary action. Similarly, the introduction of information that interferes with the access or information of others-for example, the introduction of programs of a type commonly called “viruses” or of nonacademic, network-game simulations-is subject to disciplinary action. E-mail should not be used for junk mailings.  Junk e-mail, including chain mail, wastes system resources and the time of those who receive it. Neither should e-mail be used to forge a message so as to have it appear to come from another user. All such inappropriate uses of e-mail are subject to disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, loss of the university-sponsored e-mail account.  Certain university-controlled IT resources are openly available to all students on a first-come, first-served basis; access to other resources is limited-often only by means of posted notices-to students in certain disciplines or specified courses; access to still other resources is carefully controlled by such means as user IDs and passwords. Students are responsible for adhering to the spirit and the letter of these access controls. Violations of access rights can be interpreted under the Code and university policies as theft of university services whether or not those services have been separately billed.  Students, faculty, and staff are also responsible for ensuring the confidentiality of access rights under their control. For example, release of a password, whether intentional or inadvertent, invites misuse by others and may be subject to disciplinary action.

General rights and responsibilities. Despite access controls imposed, system failures may occasionally make it possible for students to inappropriately read, use, copy, alter, or delete information stored electronically on a university computer system. System users are responsible for not exploiting such system failures and for reporting them to proper university personnel so that corrective steps can be taken.  The university strives to maintain a quiet, environment in its computer labs in order that lab users can use their time productively and with minimal distractions. Proper use of computer resources follows the same standards of common sense and courtesy that govern the use of other public facilities. Improper use violates those standards by infringing upon others’ ability to fulfill their responsibilities.  All inappropriate uses of IT resources should be reported to proper authorities for possible disciplinary action.

Learning Assessment

Purdue University Fort Wayne is committed to providing quality education for its students. We use a variety of learning assessment and evaluation processes to determine the effectiveness of our academic programs and service units as a whole. These processes are also important to you because they provide an opportunity for you to tell us how well we are meeting your needs. Learning is assessed by measuring your satisfaction with Purdue Fort Wayne and by reviewing products of your work that demonstrate what you know and can do as a consequence of your graduate education. For example, you may be asked periodically to give us feedback about the quality of academic services via a questionnaire. You may also be asked to submit anonymous samples of your course work and to participate in focus groups. We use the information collected to refine the curriculum, ensuring that your learning objectives, and those of the academic units, are met.

Parking and Traffic Regulations

Parking. You are charged a parking fee based on the number of credits you take. This entitles you to park in open parking spaces (not in spaces designated as “A” parking) in lots or garages. Parking permits for students with disabilities are available from University Police (Support Services 105). Validation from a physician or the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities (Walb 113, 260-481-6657) is required.

Traffic regulations. The operation of motor vehicles on the Purdue Fort Wayne campus is governed by applicable state, local, and campus regulations. University police officers are empowered to enforce these statutes. Additional information is published in the Student Handbook and Planner, with complete information about Purdue Fort Wayne parking and traffic regulations appearing in the Vehicle Regulations and Emergency Information brochure, which is available from University Police and other campus locations.

If you have questions about learning assessment, please contact your department.

Registration

Registration. Your initial registration for each term must occur according to the timetables for registration established for each semester. In most cases, you will register for classes online; if you have issues please contact your school/division or department office for assistance.

Schedule revisions and late registration. After your initial registration, you may revise your schedule in accordance with the policies listed below. All schedules and deadlines are prorated for courses not meeting for an entire fall or spring semester or summer session. An academic advisor’s approval may be required to process a course addition or withdrawal.

Addition of a course. You may add a course after your initial registration online; if you have issues please contact your school/division or department office for assistance.

Weeks   Restrictions
     
Through Week 1 of classes   College/school/division policies determine whether an academic advisor’s approval is required.
Weeks 2-4   Approval of the instructor is required. College/school/division policies determine whether an academic advisor’s approval is required.
Weeks 5-9   Approval of the instructor and your dean/division director is required. College/school/division policies determine whether an academic advisor’s approval is required. Approval will normally be given only when extenuating circumstances are involved.
Weeks 10-16   Courses cannot normally be added during this time.
     
Withdrawal from a course. Subject to the time limits below, and in the absence of any allegation that you are guilty of academic dishonesty in the course, you may officially withdraw from a course; if you have issues please contact your school/division or department office for assistance.
     
Weeks   Restrictions
     
Week 1 of classes   College/school/division policies determine whether an academic advisor’s approval is required; the course is not recorded on your record.
Weeks 2-9   College/school/division policies determine whether an academic advisor’s approval is required; a grade of W is recorded on your record.
Weeks 10-16   Courses cannot normally be dropped during this period. You may withdraw from a course and receive a grade of W only if you are authorized to do so by an academic advisor and your dean/division director after they have consulted with the instructor. Such drops will not be approved if sought because of your poor performance in the course.

After the end of Week 16, a course may be dropped only by following the change of grade procedure.

The registration of a graduate student is the responsibility of the student.  Registration must be accomplished according to schedules and procedures established by the Graduate School, bursar, registrar, and, in addition, for international students, the Office of International Education.

 Privileged Registration
The privileged registration, either examination only or degree only, is a one-time registration.

Federal regulations for international students in a non-thesis master’s degree program states:  If the student is not required to take any additional courses to satisfy the requirements for completion, but continues to be enrolled for administrative purposes, the student is considered to have completed the course of study and must take action to maintain status.  As a result, international students who are in a non-thesis master’s degree program and are registered for a privileged registration in their final session should contact the Office of International Education to discuss their options.

Release of Student Information

The Purdue University Fort Wayne policy governing access to student records, which complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), is described below:

Definitions:

A record includes any data or information about you and related individuals, regardless of the media used to create or maintain the record.

Educational records include records maintained by the institution but exclude records maintained by individuals and available only to those individuals or designated substitutes (that is, “personal files”).  Educational records are located and maintained by administrators in one or more of the following offices: Admissions; Alumni Relations; Athletics, Recreation, and Intramural Sports; Bursar; Center for Academic Support and Advancement; Continuing Studies; Financial Aid; Honors Program; Registrar; Student Advising and Advocacy Center, and University Police, as well as the student affairs administration and academic units.

The registrar’s office is the only university office authorized to issue official transcripts and certify students’ enrollment status.   Requests for official transcripts can be made directly through Purdue University using the online self service.  Transcript request service is also available through Purdue University Fort Wayne.  Refer to the Purdue University Fort Wayne registrar webpage for specific details on requesting a transcript.

Public information consists of name, class standing, college/school, major field of study, dates of attendance, degrees and awards, recognized student activities, sports, athletics information, and current enrollment status; address and telephone number are also public information unless the students has filed a registrar’s form to keep these private. Records of arrests and/or convictions are public records and thus not subject to university policy.

While attending Purdue University Fort Wayne, students may request to restrict the release of all their directory information to non-university personnel by completing the Request to Restrict Directory Information form.

Release in emergencies. Institutions may take into consideration circumstances pertaining to the health and safety of a student or other individuals to disclose information from education records without a student’s consent. If the institution determines there is “articulable and significant threat” to the health and safety of the student or others, information from education records can be released “to any person whose knowledge of the situation is necessary to protect” the health and safety of the student or other individuals.

Release to you. Records are available to students with the following exceptions: confidential letters of recommendation submitted prior to 1975; records of parents’ financial status; records related to student employment that is subject to other laws and are administered by Human Resources; medical and psychological records, which will be released only to a healthcare professional designated by the student; and if the student has signed a voluntary waiver of access, letters of recommendation related to admission, candidacy for awards, and candidacy for employment.  These records may be used only for the purpose originally intended.  An eligible student has the right to inspect and review the student’s own education records within 45 days after the day Purdue University (the “University”) receives a request for access.  A student may submit a written request to the appropriate records custodian that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect.  The records custodian will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the requested records are not maintained by the records custodian who receives the request, the records custodian will advise the student of the correct office where the request should be submitted. An eligible student has the right to seek amendment of his/her/their own education records that the student believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.

  • A student who wishes to ask the University to amend a record should write the records custodian responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be changed.
  • The University will, within a reasonable time after receiving the request, decide whether to amend the record as requested.
  • If the University decides not to amend the record as requested, the University will notify the student in writing of (1) the decision, (2) the student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment, and (3) the student’s right to insert in the record a written statement or explanation commenting on the information. 

Release to Purdue University Fort Wayne faculty and staff. Student records are available to members of the faculty and staff who have a legitimate need for them, as determined by the administrator of the office responsible for maintenance of the record.

Release to others. An eligible student has the right to provide written consent before the University discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

The University may, and from time to time does, disclose education records without a student’s prior written consent when authorized by FERPA, including to university officials whom the University has determined to have legitimate educational interests.  Purdue defines “university officials” and “legitimate educational interests” as follows:
 

  • “University officials” include (a) persons employed by Purdue University in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or clerical or support staff position (including but not limited to law enforcement unit personnel, attorneys, counselors, and health staff); (b) persons serving on the board of trustees; or (c) persons (including students) serving on an official university committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee.
  • A university official also may include a volunteer, contractor, consultant or other party outside of Purdue University (i) who performs an institutional service or function for which the university would otherwise use its own employees, (ii) who is under the direct control of the university with respect to the use and maintenance of education records, such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent or a student volunteering to assist another university official in performing his/her/their tasks, and (iii) who is subject to the obligation not to disclose PII from any education record without the prior written consent of the student.
  • “Legitimate educational interests” include performing a task or engaging in an activity related to (i) one’s regular duties or professional responsibilities, (ii) a student’s education, (iii) the discipline of a student, (iv) a service to or benefit for a student, (v) measures to support student success, and (vi) the safety and security of the campus. 

This includes the National Student Clearinghouse and Educational Computer Systems Incorporated (ECSI).

Retention of records. Purdue University Fort Wayne reserves the right to maintain only those records it considers useful and to set retention schedules for various categories of those records. However, the administrator responsible for each category of records will ensure that a record being challenged is not destroyed prior to resolution of the dispute.

For more information regarding Purdue’s FERPA Policy: http://www.purdue.edu/policies/records/viiia4.html

Residency Classification

Resident student status for fee purposes. When you are admitted to Purdue Fort Wayne, you are classified by Admissions as a resident or nonresident of Indiana. This classification is determined by rules established for all Purdue Fort Wayne students by the trustees of Purdue University. If you are classified as a nonresident student, you must pay nonresident fees as shown in the schedule of fees.  Among other criteria, resident student status for fee purposes requires all independent students who enter or re-enter Indiana to be domiciled in the state for 12 consecutive months before the first day of classes of the semester or summer session for which reclassification may be sought. If you think you are classified incorrectly, you may apply for resident student status. To appeal your residency classification, go to the following Web site and print off the application and instructions:

www.pfw.edu/offices/registrar/policies/residency.html

When complete, return the form to Purdue Fort Wayne Registrar, 2101 E. Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1499.

Senior Citizen Fee Remission

A waiver equal to one-half the resident credit-hour fees (to a maximum of 9 credits per semester) is available to residents of Indiana who are age 60 or older, retired and not employed full-time, and are high school graduates or GED recipients. The waiver does not apply to fees. Participants in this program are limited to registering during the week before classes begin and during late registration.  Additional information and applications are available at the Purdue Fort Wayne Financial Aid office (Kettler Hall 103, 260-481-6820 or online at http://www.pfw.edu/offices/financial-aid/forms-resources.

Smoking and Tobacco

Purdue University Fort Wayne is entirely tobacco-free and smoke-free.

Smoking and tobacco are prohibited in any university facility and on any university grounds.  The purpose of this policy is to provide a healthy, comfortable, and productive environment for the campus community. Accordingly, all employees, students, and visitors are expected to comply.

The use or sale of any tobacco or smoking-related product, including the use or sale of smokeless tobacco products or electronic cigarettes, is prohibited on property controlled, operated, or leased by the University or in University vehicles, wherever located.  Smoking and the use of tobacco products or electronic cigarettes is also prohibited in private vehicles parked on Purdue University Fort Wayne property.

Student Identification Number (SIDN)

You will be assigned a nine-digit number typically beginning with either 900 or 999 as your student identification number. It is used to identify records within Purdue Fort Wayne and has no significance outside Purdue Fort Wayne. It will not be provided to external agencies or individuals except in accordance with university policy on release of student information.  You are, however, required to provide Purdue Fort Wayne with your social security number so that Purdue Fort Wayne can issue certain informational returns to the Internal Revenue Service and to you. You are also required to provide your SSN on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid if you desire to apply for federal or state financial aid. Purdue Fort Wayne does not use your SSN as your student identification number, but only for those purposes required by law or governmental agencies.

Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct

Part I. Student Rights and Responsibilities

Preamble

Purdue University Fort Wayne regulations governing the actions of students are intended to enhance the values that must be maintained in the pursuit of Purdue Fort Wayne’s mission and goals. These values include freedom of inquiry, intellectual honesty, freedom for the open expression of ideas and opinions within limits that protect the rights of others, and respect for the views and the dignity of other persons.

In exercising their rights, students must bear responsibility to act in accordance with local, state, and national laws, and university rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. No right should be construed as enabling students to infringe upon the individual rights of another member of the academic community.

A. Individual Rights and Responsibilities as Citizens

  1. Students retain all of their citizenship rights when enrolled at Purdue University Fort Wayne.
  2. Students who violate civil law may incur penalties prescribed by civil authorities. Only where university interests as an academic community are distinct from those of the general community should the special authority of the university be asserted.
  3. Nondiscrimination. The university is committed to maintaining a community that recognizes and values the inherent worth and dignity of every person; fosters tolerance, sensitivity, understanding, and mutual respect among its members; and encourages each individual to strive to reach his or her own potential. (see www.purdue.edu/purdue/ea_eou_statement.html)
  4. All members of the university community must be able to pursue their goals, educational needs, and working lives without intimidation or injury generated by harassment.
  5. In pursuit of its goal of academic excellence, the university seeks to develop and nurture diversity. The university believes that diversity among its many members strengthens the institution, stimulates creativity, promotes the exchange of ideas, and enriches campus life.
    The university views, evaluates, and treats all persons in any university-related activity or circumstance in which they may be involved solely as individuals on the basis of their own personal abilities, qualifications, and other relevant characteristics.
    The university prohibits discrimination against any member of the university community on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or status as a veteran. The university will conduct its programs, services, and activities consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations and orders and in conformance with the procedures and limitations as set forth by the Purdue University Equal Opportunity, Equal Access, and Affirmative Action policy, which provides specific contractual rights and remedies. Additionally, the university promotes the full realization of equal employment opportunity for women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans through its affirmative action program. Purdue University Fort Wayne is an equal access, equal opportunity, affirmative action university.
  6. It is the policy of the university to maintain the campus as a place of work and study for faculty, staff, and students, free from all forms of harassment, as defined in Purdue University’s policy on Anti-Harassment (III.C.1) (hereinafter, the “Anti-Harassment Policy”). In providing an educational and work climate that is positive and harassment-free, faculty, staff, and students should be aware that harassment in the workplace or the educational environment is unacceptable conduct and will not be tolerated. [See Anti-Harassment Policy.] This Policy addresses harassment in all forms, including harassment toward individuals for reasons of race, sex, religion, color, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, parental status, or status as a veteran.
  7. Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech. Freedom of thought and expression are the lifeblood of our academic community and require an atmosphere of mutual respect among diverse persons, groups and ideas.The maintenance of mutually respectful behavior is a precondition for the vigorous exchange of ideas, and it is the policy of the university to promote such behavior in all forms of expression and conduct. The university reaffirms its commitment to freedom of speech as guaranteed by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. Accordingly, any form of speech or conduct that is protected by the First Amendment is not subject to this policy.The university reaffirms its commitment to academic freedom, which is essential to its educational mission and is critical to diversity and intellectual life.

B. Individual Rights and Responsibilities as Students

  1. Degree-seeking students have the responsibility for selecting a major field of study, choosing an appropriate degree program within the discipline, planning class schedules, and meeting the requirements for degrees. The university will provide advisors to assist students in academic planning, but students are responsible for being knowledgeable about all academic requirements that must be met before a degree is granted.
  2. Students have the right to receive in writing (the terms “in writing” or “written” here and throughout this Code include both printed and electronic communication) accurately and plainly stated information that enables them to understand clearly:

    a. the general qualifications for establishing and maintaining acceptable academic standing within a particular major and at all other levels within the university,

    b. the graduation requirements for specific curricula and majors, and

    c. at a minimum, the course objectives, requirements, and grading policies set by individual faculty members for their courses by means of a course syllabus.
  3. In the classroom, students have the freedom to raise relevant issues pertaining to classroom discussion, to offer reasonable doubts about data presented, and to express alternative opinions to those being discussed. However, in exercising this freedom, students shall not interfere with the academic process of the class. Students who interfere with the academic process of a class may be directed to leave class for the remainder of the class period. Longer suspensions from a class must be preceded by the personal misconduct procedures set forth in Part III.B of this Code.
  4. Students’ course grades shall be based upon academic performance, and not upon opinions or conduct in matters unrelated to academic standards. Students have the right to discuss and review their academic performance with their faculty members. Students who feel that any course grade has been based upon criteria other than academic performance have the right to appeal through the university grade appeals procedure. [See Academic Regulations-Grade Appeals.]
  5. Students have the right to obtain a clear statement of basic rights, obligations, and responsibilities concerning both academic and personal conduct.
  6. Students have the responsibility to become familiar with, uphold, and follow all codes of conduct, including this Code, relevant codes of colleges/schools and departments, professional programs, student housing, and all rules applicable to conduct in class environments or university-sponsored activities, including off-campus clinical, field, internship, or in-service experiences.
  7. Students have the right to participate in the formulation of university policies that directly affect them. In exercising this right, students have the right of access to appropriate information, to express their views, and to have their views considered.
  8. Students have the privacy rights specified in the university policy on the release of student information. [See Academic Regulations-Release of Student Information.]

C. Rights and Responsibilities as Participants in Student Groups, Student Organizations, and Campus Activities

  1. Students have the right to form, join, and participate in groups or organizations that promote the common interests of students, including but not limited to groups or organizations that are organized for academic, professional, religious, social, economic, political, recreational, or cultural purposes.
  2. Any group of students may petition to become a recognized university student organization in accordance with the established guidelines. Any appeal of a campus decision to discontinue or refuse recognition of a student group shall be made through the Campus Appeals Board.
  3. Any student group recognized as a university student organization shall be entitled to the use of available campus facilities in conformity with university regulations. [See Regulations Governing the Use and Assignment of University Facilities at Purdue University Fort Wayne.] Recognition shall not imply university endorsement of group goals and activities.
  4. Any recognized university student organization or any group of students able to secure sponsorship by a recognized student organization and to demonstrate financial responsibility has the right to present speakers of its choice to address members of the university community using appropriate campus facilities. These assemblies shall be subject to regulations necessary to prevent space and time conflicts and to protect the operations of the campus and the safety of persons or property.
  5. Freedom of assembly shall be guaranteed to all members of the university community. Such assemblies shall be consistent with university regulations regarding the time, place, and manner of such assemblies.
  6. A student, student group, or student organization has the right to distribute written material on campus without prior approval providing such distribution is consistent with appropriate regulations concerning the time, place, and manner of distribution and does not interfere with university activities.
  7. Students who publish student publications under university auspices have the right to be free of unlawful censorship. At the same time, students who publish such publications must observe the recognized canons of responsible journalism such as the Sigma Delta Chi Code of Ethics and avoid libel, obscenity, undocumented allegations, attacks on personal integrity, and the techniques of harassment and innuendo. Editors and managers of The Communicator may not be arbitrarily suspended or removed from their positions because of student, faculty, administrative, or public disapproval of their editorial policies or publications. Student editors and managers may be suspended or removed from their positions only for proper cause and by appropriate proceedings conducted by the Board of Directors. All student publications shall explicitly state on the editorial page that the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the university or of the student body.

D. Summary of Rights and Responsibilities

  1. This statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities is a reaffirmation by the entire Purdue Fort Wayne community that the constitutional guarantees and the basic principles of fair treatment and respect for the integrity, judgment, and contribution of the individual student, coinciding with each student’s freedom to learn set forth in the foregoing articles, are essential to the proper operation of an institution of higher learning. Accordingly, in the interpretation and enforcement of the policies, procedures, rules, and regulations of the university, these student rights shall be preserved and given effect, but they shall not be construed or applied so as to limit the rights guaranteed students under the Constitution of the United States or the Constitution of the State of Indiana. Except in the case of grade appeals and appeals of Student Housing decisions, which are addressed further below in this paragraph, a complaint by a student or a group of students that the rights described in this Part I have been violated and that the student or group of students has been or will be adversely affected thereby shall be submitted and resolved in accordance with the procedures described in Part IV. In case of grade appeals, the individuals and committees designated in the university grade appeals procedure shall have final authority to decide the appeal. In the case of an appeal of Student Housing decisions, the individuals and committees designated in the Housing Agreement shall have final authority to decide the appeal. In the case of complaints of discrimination and harassment, the individuals and committees identified in the Purdue University Procedures for Resolving Complaints of Discrimination and Harassment shall have the authority designated in such procedures.
  2. If the student has a question as to whether the university grade appeals procedures, Student Housing procedures, or the student complaint procedures described in Part IV should be used to resolve a complaint, the dean of students shall decide which one set of procedures shall be used after consulting with the unit head of the faculty or staff member with whom the student or group of students has the complaint. Once the appropriate process is identified, the dean of students will explain the time lines associated with the process.
  3. The enumeration of these rights and responsibilities shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the student. Nothing contained in the Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct shall be construed as any denial or limitation upon the legal authority or responsibility of the Board of Trustees to establish policies and to make rules and regulations governing the operation of the university.

E. Definitions

  1. A university activity is any teaching, research, service, administrative, or other function, proceeding, ceremony, program, or activity conducted by or under the authority of Purdue University Fort Wayne or with which the university has any official connection, whether taking place on or off campus. Included within this definition without limitation are Purdue Fort Wayne cooperative education programs, internships, practicums, field experiences, and athletic or other intercollegiate activities.
  2. University property means property owned, controlled, used, or occupied by Purdue University Fort Wayne.
  3. A business day means any day other than Saturday, Sunday, and any day on which the university is closed, whether by virtue of its being a university holiday or otherwise.

Part II. Student Conduct Subject to University Action

Preamble

Students are expected and required to abide by the laws of the United States, the State of Indiana, and the rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of Purdue University Fort Wayne. Students are expected to exercise their freedom to learn with responsibility and to respect the general conditions that maintain such freedom. The university has developed the following general regulations concerning student conduct which are intended to safeguard the right of every individual student to exercise fully the freedom to learn without interference. The university may hold a student responsible for his or her behavior, including for academic or personal misconduct

A. Academic Misconduct

This type of misconduct is generally defined as any act that tends to compromise the academic integrity of the university or subvert the educational process. At Purdue Fort Wayne, specific forms of academic misconduct are defined as follows:

  1. Using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, or study aids in any academic exercise. The term “academic exercise” includes all forms of work submitted for credit or hours.
  2. Falsifying or fabricating any information or citation in an academic exercise.
  3. Helping or attempting to help another in committing acts of academic dishonesty, including, but not limited to, sharing papers and assignments.
  4. Adopting or reproducing ideas or statements of another person as one’s own without acknowledgment (plagiarism).
  5. Submitting work from one course to satisfy the requirements of another course unless submission of such work is permitted by the faculty member.
  6. Serving as or permitting another student to serve as a substitute (or “ringer”) in taking an exam.
  7. Altering of answers or grades on a graded assignment without authorization of the faculty member.
  8. Engaging in activities that unfairly place other students at a disadvantage, such as taking, hiding, or altering resource material.
  9. Violating professional or ethical standards of the profession or discipline for which a student is preparing (declared major and/or minor) as adopted by the relevant academic program.

    In order to ensure that the highest standards of professional and ethical conduct are promoted and supported at the university, academic departments should establish a written policy/statement addressing the professional or ethical standards for their discipline, which if developed, must be available to all students who are preparing in the discipline. Students have the responsibility to familiarize themselves with the academic department’s policy/statement.

B. Personal Misconduct

The university may find a student responsible for the following acts of personal misconduct that occur on campus property or in connection with a university activity, or when the health, safety, property, or security of the campus may be adversely impacted.

  1. Dishonest conduct, including but not limited to false accusation of misconduct; forgery, alteration, or misuse of any university document, record, or identification; and giving to a university official information known to be false.
  2. Release of access codes for university computer systems to unauthorized persons; use of an access code for a purpose other than that stated on the request for service.
  3. Lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct as defined by law.
  4. Disorderly or disruptive conduct that interferes with teaching, research, administration, or other university or university-authorized activity.
  5. Failure to comply with the directions of authorized university officials in the performance of their duties, including failure to identify oneself when requested to do so, and violation of the terms of a sanction.
  6. Unauthorized entry, use, or occupancy of campus facilities; refusal to vacate a campus facility when directed to do so by an authorized official of the university.
  7. Unauthorized taking or possession of university property or services; unauthorized taking or possession of the property or services of others, including but not limited to selling or bartering notes/handouts/recordings from academic classes.
  8. Intentional action or reckless disregard that results in damage to or destruction of university property or of property belonging to others.
  9. Possession of firearms, fireworks, other explosives, or other weapons; possession or display of any firearm except as authorized by the university police; and intentional possession of a dangerous article or substance as a potential weapon, or of any article or explosive calculated to injure, intimidate, or threaten any person. Public law enforcement officials who are required by their departments to carry their firearms at all times must register with the university police.
  10. Acting with violence; and aiding, encouraging, or participating in a riot.
  11. Harassment, as defined by the Anti-Harassment Policy. Use of the term “harassment” includes all forms of harassment, including stalking, racial harassment, and sexual harassment as defined more completely by the Anti-Harassment Policy (purdue.edu/ethics/policies/FosteringRespect_accessible.pdf)
  12. Hazing, defined as any conduct that subjects another person, whether physically, emotionally, or psychologically, to anything that may endanger, abuse, degrade, or intimidate the person as a condition of association with a group or organization, regardless of the person’s consent or lack of consent.
  13. Physical abuse of any person or conduct that threatens or endangers the health or safety of another person.
  14. Any form of communication that (a) involves a serious expression of intent to commit an act of unlawful violence to a particular individual or group of individuals or to cause damage to another person’s property, or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health and safety of another person or another person’s property, or (b) that is inherently likely to provoke a violent reaction or incite an immediate breach of the peace in a face-to-face situation.
  15. Possession, consumption, distribution, or sale of alcoholic beverages on campus except as expressly permitted by the Internal Operating Procedures for the Possession, Consumption, Distribution, and Sale of Alcoholic Beverages on the Fort Wayne campus.
  16. Use, possession, manufacture, processing, distribution, or sale of any drug or controlled substance except as expressly permitted by law. The term “controlled substance” is defined in Indiana statutes, and includes, but is not limited to, substances such as marijuana, cocaine, narcotics, certain stimulants and depressants, hallucinogens, and prescription drugs used without proper authorization.
  17. Violations of other published university regulations, policies, procedures, or rules, such as the Tobacco and Smoke Free Campus policy.
  18. Violation of any rules governing student organizations, or the use of university property (including the time, place, and manner of meetings or demonstrations on university property), or of any other rule that is reasonably related to the orderly operation of the university, including, but not limited to, university solicitation policies
  19. Obstruction or disruption of any university activity or inciting, aiding, or encouraging other persons to engage in such conduct. Obstruction or disruption means any unlawful or objectionable acts or conduct: (1) that seriously threaten the ability of the university to maintain its facilities available for performance of its educational activities; or (2) that are in violation of the reasonable rules and standards of the university designed to protect the academic community from unlawful conduct; or (3) that present a serious threat to persons or property of the academic community. Such phrases shall include, without limitation of the foregoing general definition, the unlawful use of force or violence on or within any buildings or grounds owned, used, occupied, or controlled by Purdue University Fort Wayne; using or occupying any such buildings or grounds in violation of lawful rules, regulations, policies, or procedures of the university, or for the purpose or with the effect of denying or interfering with the lawful use thereof by others; and injuring or harming any person or damaging or destroying the property of the university or the property of others, within such buildings and grounds.

C. Other Student Conduct Issues

  1. Demonstrations. Any individual or group activity or conduct apparently intended to call attention to the participants’ point of view on some issues is not of itself misconduct. Demonstrations that do not involve conduct beyond the scope of constitutionally protected rights of free speech and assembly are, of course, permissible. However, conduct that is otherwise improper cannot be justified merely because it occurs in the context of a demonstration.
  2. Misconduct Subject to Other Penalties. As provided by Indiana statute, misconduct that constitutes a violation of this Code may be sanctioned after determination of responsibility under the procedures herein provided, without regard to whether such misconduct also constitutes an offense under the criminal laws of any state or of the United States or whether such conduct might result in civil liability of the violator to other persons.
  3. Personal Conduct Not on University Property. The university may find a student responsible for acts of personal misconduct that are not committed on campus property or in connection with an university activity if the acts distinctly and adversely affect the security of the campus community, the safety of others, or the integrity of the educational process, including, but not limited to, drug and alcohol violations or offenses against another person.

Part III. Student Misconduct Procedures

Preamble

Purdue University Fort Wayne procedures for imposing academic and personal misconduct sanctions are designed to provide students with the guarantees of due process and procedural fairness. Except as provided in Part IV, the procedures hereby established shall be followed in all cases in which Purdue Fort Wayne institutes proceedings against students for violations of rules of student conduct set forth in Part II.

A. Procedures for Academic Misconduct

  1. The process for investigating complaints of academic misconduct may vary depending upon the situation. An essential component of any misconduct process should incorporate the requirements of due process. As such, a student whose conduct is being reviewed should know the nature of the information presented against them and be able to have a meaningful opportunity to be heard. Therefore, throughout Part III, Section A, of this Code, whenever there is a requirement for the student to have an “opportunity to be heard,” the minimum standard for that meaningful opportunity will include all of the following:

    • notice of the nature of the alleged misconduct
    • notice of the date, time, location, and general procedure of the review of the allegation
    • notice of the potential outcomes of the review
    • opportunity to address the information supporting the allegation
  2. When a student in a course commits an act of academic misconduct related to that particular course, the faculty member teaching the course has the authority to initiate academic misconduct proceedings against the student in accordance with these procedures.

    If a faculty member initiates academic misconduct proceedings, the faculty member must contact the Chair/Director to place a hold on the student’s account. A student may not withdraw from a course during the pendency of these proceedings or to avoid any imposed sanction.

    a. A faculty member who has information that a student enrolled in a course being conducted by the faculty member has committed an act of academic misconduct related to that course is required to hold a conference with the student concerning the matter within 10 business days of discovering the alleged misconduct. The faculty member must advise the student of the alleged act of misconduct and afford the student the opportunity to address the information supporting the allegation. Any action that must be performed by faculty under these procedures may be performed by the faculty chair or next highest administrator.

    b. If the faculty member finds that the student did commit the act of misconduct as alleged, the faculty member is authorized to impose an appropriate academic sanction related to the particular course involved. An appropriate academic sanction for such misconduct may include, and is limited to, one or more of the following:

    (1) The student may be given a lower grade than the student would otherwise have received or a failing grade for any assignment, course work, examination, or paper involved in the act of misconduct.

    (2) The student may be required to repeat the assignment, complete some additional assignment, or resubmit any assignment, course work, examination, or paper involved in the act of misconduct.

    (3) The student may be given a lower grade than the student would otherwise have received or a failing grade for the course.

    c. After imposing an academic sanction, the faculty member is required to report the matter and action taken within 10 business days in writing to the student, the chair of the department in which the course is offered, the dean/director of the college/school/division in which the course is offered, the chair of the student’s department (if different from above), the dean/director of the student’s college/school/division (if different from above), and the dean of students.

    d. The student has the right to appeal the faculty member’s findings and/or sanction through the procedures specified in Part IV of this Code.

    e. The chair of the student’s department has the authority to initiate additional academic sanctions against the student if the chair concludes, in consultation with the dean of students, that additional sanctions may be warranted by the nature of the act or because the student has committed previous acts of academic misconduct.

    The chair of the student’s department must notify the student in writing within 10 business days of the date of the faculty member’s report if additional sanctions are contemplated at the department level. If additional sanctions are contemplated, the student shall be provided an opportunity to be heard in accordance with the standards articulated in the opening paragraph of Part III, Section A.

    The chair must report any decision to initiate additional sanctions in writing to the student, the student’s college/school/division dean/director, and the dean of students within 10 business days of the student’s opportunity to be heard.

    Additional sanctions imposed at the department level may include academic probation, denial of future admission, or dismissal from the department. The student may appeal the chair’s decision about additional sanctions through the procedures specified in Part IV of this Code.

    f. The dean/director of the student’s college/school/division also has the authority to initiate additional academic sanctions against the student if the dean/director concludes, in consultation with the dean of students, that additional sanctions may be warranted by the nature of the act or because the student has committed previous acts of academic misconduct. The dean/director must notify the student in writing within 10 business days of the date of the chair’s report if additional sanctions are contemplated at the college/school/division level. If additional sanctions are contemplated, the student shall be provided an opportunity to be heard in accordance with the standards articulated in the opening paragraph of Part III, Section A.

    The dean/director must report any decision to initiate additional sanctions in writing to the student, the chair, and the dean of students within 10 business days of the student’s opportunity to be heard.

    Additional sanctions imposed at the college/school/division level may include academic probation, denial of future admission, or dismissal from the college/school/division. The student may appeal the dean’s/director’s decision about additional sanctions through the procedures specified in Part IV of this Code.
  3. When a student is alleged to have committed an act of academic misconduct that is not related to a course in which the student is enrolled, the chair of the student’s department has the authority to initiate a review of the allegation.

    a. After discovering the alleged academic misconduct, the chair must notify the dean of students and the student in writing within 10 business days if action is contemplated at the department level and provide the student an opportunity to be heard in accordance with the standards articulated in the opening sentence of Part III, Section A.

    The chair must report the decision, including any sanctions imposed, in writing to the student, the student’s college/school/division dean/director, and the dean of students within 10 business days of the student’s opportunity to be heard.

    Sanctions imposed at the department level may include, and are limited to, one or more of the following: academic probation, denial of future admission, or dismissal from the department. The student may appeal the chair’s decision (including sanctions) through the procedures specified in Part IV of this Code.

    b. Similarly, the dean/director of the student’s college/school/division has the authority to initiate additional academic sanctions against the student if the dean/director concludes that additional sanctions may be warranted by the nature of the act or because the student has committed previous acts of academic misconduct in accordance with the procedures above.

    The dean/director must report any decision to initiate additional sanctions in writing to the student, the chair, and the dean of students within 10 business days of the student’s opportunity to be heard.

    Additional sanctions imposed at the college/school/division level may include, and are limited to, one or more of the following: academic probation, denial of future admission, or dismissal from the college/school/division. The student may appeal the dean’s/director’s decision about additional sanctions through the procedures specified in Part IV of this Code.
  4. A student may not be placed on disciplinary probation, suspended, or expelled from the university because of an act of academic misconduct unless the dean of students concludes that such a sanction is justified by the nature of the act or because the student has committed previous acts of misconduct. If the dean of students concludes that additional disciplinary sanctions are warranted, the proceedings will be governed by the same procedures that apply to acts of personal misconduct (Part III.B) and may be commenced when notified of the outcome from the faculty member.

B. Procedures for Personal Misconduct

Any member of the university community may initiate a complaint of student personal misconduct with the dean of students. Misconduct proceedings are initiated by the issuance of a notice of charges and are governed by the following procedures.

  1. Notice of Charges

    a. A personal misconduct proceeding is initiated by the dean of students by sending a notice to the student who is the subject of the complaint. If proceedings are initiated against a student under the age of 18, the dean is required to make reasonable efforts to assure that the parent(s) or, when appropriate, the legal guardian of the student is notified concerning the proceedings and the nature of the complaint.
    b. The notice shall be sent by email to the student’s address as it appears in the official records of the university or shall be delivered personally to the student. The notice shall quote the rule claimed to have been violated and shall fairly inform the student of the reported circumstances of the alleged misconduct. The notice shall require the student to appear in the office of the dean of students at a time and on a date specified (which ordinarily will not be earlier than three business days after the emailing of the notice) for a hearing on the alleged violations. A copy of these procedures can be found on the webpage: catalog.pfw.edu, a link to which will be included in the email or other notice to the student.
    c. The notice shall inform the student of the following:
    (1) The offense the student is alleged to have committed by citing the relevant section of this Code;
    (2) The date, time, and place of the alleged offense, and other relevant circumstances;
    (3) The date, time, and place of the hearing to discuss the alleged violation;
    (4) That the student may have an advisor or other counsel present during the hearing, but with the understanding that such an advisor or counsel is limited to the role of advising the student and that such an advisor or counsel may not participate in presenting the case, questioning the witnesses, or making statements during the hearing;
    (5) That the student need not answer questions and that a choice to remain silent will not be taken as an admission of responsibility, nor shall it be detrimental to the student’s position;
    (6) That, if the student fails to appear for the hearing, the dean of students may (a) reschedule the conference; (b) dismiss the charges; or (c) if the dean reasonably believes the failure to appear to be inexcusable, impose any of the prescribed sanctions set forth in Part III.B.3 below.
     
  2. Hearing

    a. When the student appears as required, the dean of students shall inform the student as fully as possible of the facts concerning the alleged misconduct and of the procedures that follow. The student may, but need not, make responses and explanations.
    b. If, after discussion and such further investigation as may be necessary, the dean of students determines that the violation alleged is not supported by the information, the dean shall dismiss the accusation and notify the student.
    c. If, after discussion, or if the student fails to appear, the dean of students believes that the violation occurred as alleged, the dean shall so notify the student and shall impose a sanction by means of a written notice. The student, by such notice, shall have the option of accepting or appealing the finding and/or sanction through the procedures specified in Part V of this Code.
    d. Both the student and the student’s accuser shall be informed of the outcome of any hearing brought alleging any form of physical violence, threat, or harassment.
     
  3. Personal Misconduct Sanctions
  1. The dean of students is authorized to impose a sanction including, and limited to, one or more of the following:

    a. Reprimand and Warning. A student may be given a reprimand accompanied by a written warning that the student may receive additional sanctions if the student engages in the same misconduct again or commits any other violation of this Code.

    b. Disciplinary Probation. A student may be placed on probation for a specified period under conditions specified in writing by the dean of students, with a warning that any violation of the conditions or any further acts of misconduct may result in additional sanctions, including suspension or expulsion from the university. As a condition of probation, the student may be required to participate in a specific program, such as an alcohol-education program, or to provide a specific service, such as the repair or restoration of any property damaged or taken by the student.

    c. Restitution. A student may be required to pay the cost for the replacement or repair of any property damaged by the student. If the student fails to pay the cost or make the repairs, the student may be subjected to additional sanctions, including suspension or expulsion.

    d. Participation in a Specific Program, Assessment, or Evaluation. A student may be required to participate in a specific program, assessment, or evaluation, such as an alcohol-education program. If the student fails to participate in the program as directed, the student may be subjected to additional sanctions, including suspension or expulsion.

    e. Provision of a Specific Service. A student may be required to provide a specific service, such as the repair or restoration of any property damaged or taken by the student. If the student fails to provide the service as directed, the student may be subjected to additional sanctions, including suspension or expulsion.

    f. Suspension. A student may be suspended from classes and future enrollment and excluded from participation in all aspects of campus life for a specified period of time.

    g. Expulsion. A student may be permanently dismissed from the university.

C. Summary Action

Summary action by way of temporary suspension and exclusion from university property may be taken against a student without the issuance of a notice of charges and without following the procedures prescribed in Part III.B or Part IV on the following conditions:

• Summary action shall be taken only by the chancellor or the chancellor’s designee, and only after the student shall have been given an opportunity to be heard if such procedure is practical and feasible under the circumstances.

• Summary action shall be taken only if the chancellor or the chancellor’s designee is satisfied that the continued presence of the student on university property threatens imminent harm to any other persons or to the property of the university or of others, or to the stability and continuance of normal university functions.

• Whenever summary action is taken under this provision, the procedures provided for in Part III.B for a hearing or the procedures provided for in Part V for appeals shall be expedited so far as possible in order to shorten the period of summary action.

D. Time Limitations

Time limitations specified in the preceding sections of this Code may be extended by either the dean of students or the Campus Appeals Board for a reasonable period if an extension is justified by good cause under the totality of the circumstances. The documentation for extending the time limitations must be provided to the student.

E. Status During Conduct Proceedings

Except where summary action is taken as provided in Part III.C, the status of a student charged with misconduct shall not be affected, pending the final disposition of charges. The effective date of any sanction shall be a date established by the final adjudicating body (dean of students or the Campus Appeals Board). In case of suspension or expulsion, the student shall not be withdrawn any earlier than the date the notice of charges originated or later than the effective date established by the final adjudicating body.

Part IV. Student Complaint Procedures

Preamble

The following student complaint procedures are designed to ensure that students have an identified and well-understood mechanism for registering and resolving complaints of the types described below.

A. Students having complaints concerning alleged violations of the Anti-Harassment Policy, as referenced in Part I.A.3, Part I.A.4 and Part I.A.6 of the Code, should use the Purdue University Procedures for Resolving Complaints of Discrimination and Harassment.

B. Students having complaints concerning actions or decisions which are claimed to violate other rights recognized in Part I of the Code must first make a reasonable effort to resolve the complaints informally with the faculty/staff member whose action or decision is the basis for the complaint.

  1. The effort to resolve the complaint informally with the faculty/staff member must be initiated by the student in a documented manner no later than within 21 calendar days the action or decision occurred. The documentation only needs to be dated and indicate that the student has made a good faith effort at initiating the conversation with the responsible faculty/staff member. For a complaint to continue to receive consideration under these procedures, the student must initiate each successive step in the process within 21 calendar days of conclusion of the previous step. In addition, it is expected that each step in the process will be concluded within 21 calendar days of initiation.
  2. If the complaint is not resolved informally between the student and the responsible faculty/ staff member, the student may pursue the complaint informally with the faculty/ staff member’s department head, who shall investigate, mediate, and suggest a resolution.
  3. If the complaint remains unresolved after the department head’s attempt to mediate a resolution, the student may continue to pursue the complaint with the head of the next highest administrative level (e.g., the college/school/division dean/director), who shall investigate, mediate, and suggest a resolution.
  4. Only after all such remedies have been exhausted may the student petition for a hearing before the Campus Appeals Board. To petition for a hearing before the Campus Appeals Board, the student must complete the online form. The complaint must describe the action or decision claimed to violate one or more of the student rights recognized in Part I of the Code, identify the right(s) claimed to have been violated, and specify the remedy sought. The dean shall direct properly received complaints to the chair of the Campus Appeal Board. The Campus Appeals Board shall have the authority and duty to reach findings and to convey recommendations to the chancellor. If necessary, the chancellor may present such recommendations to the university president and Board of Trustees for their consideration.
  5. See Part V of the Code for information about the composition of the Campus Appeals Board.

Part V. Petition for Hearing

Preamble

Students wishing to appeal any decision by a university official or body under the preceding sections of this Code shall use this petition process.

A. Types of Appeals

The Campus Appeals Board (CAB) may hear the following types of appeals from students: (1) appeals of misconduct findings and sanctions imposed by the dean of students, including findings and sanctions concerning student organizations; (2) appeals of academic misconduct findings imposed by faculty members, department chairs, or academic deans or division directors; (3) appeals of SGA Judicial Court rulings; and (4) appeals of faculty/staff decisions claimed to violate student rights recognized in Part I of the Code (per Part IV). Extension to any time limits specified below must be approved by the chair of the board.

B. Campus Appeals Board

  1. Composition. The Campus Appeals Board (CAB) shall consist of nine members selected in the following manner: four students appointed by the president of Purdue Fort Wayne Student Government Association subject to confirmation by the SGA Senate; three faculty members elected by the Faculty Senate; and two administrative staff members appointed by the chancellor, one of whom shall be designated as chair of the Campus Appeals Board. An equal number of alternates from each constituent group shall be appointed at the same time and in the same manner as the regular members. From the members and alternates, the chair shall designate a hearing panel consisting of a minimum of three members including at least one student. A minimum of three panel members including at least one student is required for quorum.
  2. Terms of Office. The term of office for student members and their alternates shall be one year, and for the faculty and administrative members, it shall be two years, except that members shall continue to have jurisdiction of any case under consideration at the expiration of their term. The terms of office for all members shall begin at the start of the fall semester. No member shall serve more than two consecutive terms. If any appointing authority fails to make its prescribed appointments to the Campus Appeals Board, or to fill any vacancy on the panel of alternates within seven calendar days after being notified to do so by the chancellor, or if at any time the Campus Appeals Board cannot function because of the refusal of any member or members to serve, the chancellor may make appointments, fill vacancies, or take such other action as deemed necessary to constitute the Campus Appeals Board with a full complement of members.

C. Criteria for Appeal

Appeals may only be requested for one or more of the following reasons:

  1. Failure to follow an established policy or procedure;
  2. The assigned sanction is unduly harsh or arbitrary;
  3. New information has become available since the conclusion of the process; or
  4. Bias has been exhibited through the process.

The purpose of an appeal shall not be simply to hold a rehearing of the original matter.

D. Filing the Petition

Students who wish to request Campus Appeals Board action shall complete the online form within 10 business days of the date of the sanction letter or within 10 business days of the conclusion of the previous step in the appeal process, as applicable. The dean shall in turn forward properly filed appeals to the chair of the Campus Appeals Board.

To be properly filed, the appeal must be submitted within the established time limits, identify the action or decision being appealed, name the party whose decision or action is being appealed (sometimes referred to below as the “named party”), and identify one or more of the criteria identified in the Criteria for Appeal set forth above. If the above criteria are not met, the CAB chair shall dismiss the appeal.

E. Investigation of Appeals

Within 10 business days of the chair’s receipt of the appeal, the CAB chair will assign a board member or alternate who is a faculty member or administrator to investigate the appeal and notify the party named that an appeal has been filed. Notification will include a copy of the appeal and the identity of the student who filed the appeal. The party whose action or decision is being appealed will be requested to respond in writing within 10 business days from the date of notification. To protect both the student and the named party, CAB appeals will be treated with the greatest degree of confidentiality possible.

As soon as practicable following appointment, the investigator will interview the student who filed the appeal. The student may have an advisor or legal counsel (at the student’s own expense) present at meetings with the investigator. However, the advisor or counsel may not stand in place of the student or otherwise participate in the investigation process.

Within 10 business days following completion of the interview with the student, the investigator will notify the chair as to whether or not the allegations set forth in the appeal, if substantiated, would support the basis for the appeal and, if so, whether the action or decision being appealed would constitute a violation of one or more student rights recognized in Part I of the Code. If in such notification the investigator answers these inquiries in the negative, the chair may dismiss the appeal, and the decision shall be final. The chair shall provide the student and named party with written notice of such dismissal. In all other cases, the investigator will conduct a thorough fact-finding investigation, and will meet separately with the student and named party, interview pertinent witnesses, and review relevant documents regarding the appeal. The investigation shall be completed within 10 business days following the assignment of the appeal to the investigator.

Within 10 business days following conclusion of the investigation, the investigator will prepare and deliver a report to the chair, the student filing the appeal, and the named party. The report will include a finding based upon a preponderance of information that the appeal shall be upheld or denied. The “preponderance of information” standard requires that the information supporting the finding is more convincing than the information offered in opposition to it. The report will include the basis upon which the investigator reached the finding and recommendation for remedy, if any.

F. Determination

Within 10 business days of receipt of the investigator’s report, the chair will convene a meeting of the CAB hearing panel. The student and the named party will be notified of the date, time, and location of the meeting. Prior to the meeting, the student, named party, and panel members shall be furnished with a copy of the investigator’s report and copies of the appeal and response. The student may have an advisor or legal counsel (at the student’s own expense) present at the meeting. However, the advisor or counsel may not stand in place of the student or otherwise participate in the hearing process. At the meeting the panel will be afforded the opportunity to ask questions of the investigator. The student who filed the appeal and the named party will be afforded the opportunity to make a brief statement to the panel, after which the panel members may ask questions. The panel shall meet separately with the student and the named party.

Within 10 business days following the final meeting with the panel, the chair shall render the written recommendation of the hearing panel and include a brief explanation of the recommendation setting forth the findings upon which the recommendation is based. The chair shall furnish copies of the recommendation to the chancellor, the student who filed the appeal, the party whose decision is being appealed, and to others within the university with a need to know as determined by the panel. The chancellor shall render a written and final decision within 10 business days of receiving the panel’s recommendation.

Part VI. Authority, Application, and Amendments

A. Authority

Student rights, responsibilities, and standards of conduct will be established by campus administrators in consultation with the student and faculty government organizations and shall be consistent with the principles established by Purdue University.”

B. Application

This Code, as from time to time amended, shall apply to all undergraduate and graduate students while enrolled at Purdue University Fort Wayne and shall be deemed a part of the terms and conditions of admission and enrollment at the university. In case of any conflict or inconsistencies with any other rules, regulations, directives, or policies now existing, this Code shall govern. They shall be enforced by the chancellor.

C. Amendments

  1. In General. This Code, and any amendments hereto, shall remain in effect until rescinded or modified by or under the authority of the Board of Trustees of The Trustees of Purdue University, as exercised by the president of the university under delegated authority from the Board and in consultation with the chancellor. Amendments may be proposed by the Purdue Fort Wayne Student Government Association, Purdue Fort Wayne Senate, university administrative officials, , or the Board of Trustees, and any such proposed amendment shall be submitted to the Purdue Fort Wayne Student Government Association and Faculty Senate for review and comment before adoption.
  2. Amendments to Part I: Student Rights and Responsibilities. Without limiting the generality of the amendment process described in Part VI.C.1 above, the following additional provisions shall apply to amendments to the student rights and responsibilities set forth in Part I. Proposed amendments of such rights and responsibilities may be initiated by the Purdue Fort Wayne Student Government Association, the Faculty Senate, university administrative officials, or the Board of Trustees and shall be submitted to the Purdue Fort Wayne Student Government Association, and the Faculty Senate for consideration and recommendation before adoption by or under the authority of the Board of Trustees, as exercised by the president of the university under delegated authority from the Board. In the event such an amendment to the rights and responsibilities set forth in Part I is adopted without approval of the Purdue Fort Wayne Student Government Association or the Faculty Senate, either of such bodies may withdraw its endorsement of such rights and responsibilities, in whole or in part.