The University Senate of Michigan Technological University


PROPOSAL 1-98

STUDENT ACADEMIC GRIEVANCES

Michigan Technological University recognizes the need for a mechanism to assure that student grievances about faculty actions are evaluated fairly and equitably and, for this purpose, establishes the procedures outlined below.

Student complaints which are related to academic integrity or alleged discrimination and/or harassment are not covered under this policy or procedure. In such cases, students are directed to the Scientific Misconduct Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, or to the Affirmative Action Office to proceed with their complaints. Likewise, complaints about existing University policy and procedure should be directed to the responsible office or unit.

PROCEDURE

Preparing the grievance

Students are encouraged to consult with their academic advisor or other trusted mentor to clarify the specific grievances, discuss appropriate approaches to the resolution of the issue, and to insure their understanding of the procedures outlined below.

Making the grievance

Students should first present their grievance in an informal discussion with the faculty member involved. If the student does not feel that a satisfactory explanation or resolution has been reached through these discussions, he or she may initiate review of the grievance by the faculty member's supervisor, in the following order:

Resolution of the grievance

Appeal Process

The student complainant may wish to appeal the decision of the faculty member's supervisor. If so, the appeal must be made in writing within 5 working days of the original decision to the Dean of the College/School or to the Vice Provost for Instruction. The scope of the appeal is limited to one of the following:

The Dean of the College/School or the Vice Provost for Instruction will provide a written response to the student with copies to the faculty member involved, the supervisor who made the initial decision, and the Vice Provost and Dean for Student Affairs.

Adopted by Senate: January 7, 1998
Approved by President: April 21, 1998