Student Academic Standards and Performance
Absence from Class for Official University Business - 1I8
Students who are absent from class due to official University Business (e.g., athletic events, music, theater, dance productions, academic field trips, Student Senate) will be excused for up to 15 percent of the scheduled contact hours of their classes. Such an excuse is contingent, however, on the student and the sponsoring unit informing the instructor(s) and advisor in writing at least one week in advance of the anticipated absence. Instructors who use class attendance as a basis for determining grades should not count these excused absences. However, the student is not excused from fulfilling the academic requirements of the course. Where appropriate notice of absence has been given, the instructor will endeavor to give the student an opportunity to complete assignments in advance, to arrange make-up assignments, or to do equivalent work. The student should recognize that in some instances it will not be possible to make up course activities such as field trips or special laboratory experiments. It is the responsibility of the student to take all factors into consideration when deciding how to resolve conflicts between classes and other official University activities. Due to patient care issues, instructors and the respective Dean (Dean's designate) in health professional schools will be provided latitude in limiting absences to no more than 10 percent (following consultation with the student and the Office of the Provost).
In the case of such absence beyond 15 percent of the contact hours in a given term, the instructor(s) may grant excused absences if they wish, but are under no obligation to do so. (Post-season tours and other special circumstances warrant faculty discretion in helping the students meet their educational goals.)
Approved by Chancellor effective 2/28/11
This policy was issued on April 29, 2011, replacing the January 11, 2002 version.
Document Reference: 1I8
Origin: CC 1-84/85; OP 6/3/91; OC 2/28/11
