Campus Policies and Procedures

Academic Integrity Policy

Academic integrity means that all academic work represents the individual work of the stated author. Input and assistance from others must always be appropriate and fully acknowledged. Any deviation from this policy will be considered Academic Dishonesty.

Academic Dishonesty

Academic dishonesty can occur in many forms and variations. The following is a list of some academic dishonesty offenses:

• Cheating - a form of misrepresentation. Cheating can include, but is not limited to,
  • using another’s work as your own;
  • utilizing a paper or assignment bought or taken from a website;
  • allowing someone else to turn in your work as his or her own;
  • several people writing one paper and turning in separate copies, all represented (implicitly or explicitly) as individual work;
  • stealing an examination or a solution from the instructor;
  • looking at another student’s exam;
  • using notes or other aids in an exam when they are not permitted;
  • sharing exam questions with other students; or
  • sharing case scenarios from a practical with other students.
• Fabrication - the forgery or invention of information or citation in an academic exercise. This might include
  • the use of false results in a research study or fabricating a resource for a reference list.
• Facilitating dishonesty - assisting another to perform an act of academic dishonesty. This includes
  • someone taking an exam other than the appropriate student (it may also address misuse of a proctor); or
  • falsification of a required proctor.
• Plagiarism using another’s work without crediting that individual or receiving authorization for use. Plagiarism is a serious academic offense. The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences defines plagiarism as “knowingly using the words, ideas or language of another author without giving credit to the work.” In its severest form, plagiarism is the theft of another’s intellectual work.

The University does recognize that there are many colors and shades of plagiarism and that, at times, it may even be an inadvertent mistake, such as leaving off a reference from a bibliography.

Intentional violations are a much more serious offense. An example of this might be the use of a paragraph from a journal article without citation in a report or bulletin board response. It is with this in mind that the University has defined the following “levels of misconduct.”

Level One Academic Dishonesty

Level One violations typically occur as a result of students not familiarizing themselves with writing and course requirements. They may include the following:

• Lazy plagiarism-forgetting a citation or leaving a reference off of a reference list
• Failure to cite or acknowledge a source in a small or limited part of the paper

The instructor deals with Level One misconduct offenses and notifies the Program Director. Actions may include

• resubmission of the assignment,
• an additional assignment, or
• reduction of grade per course syllabus and/or the Student Handbook.

Level Two Academic Dishonesty

Level Two misconduct is more serious. These types of violations are more intentional in nature. The following are examples:

• Quoting directly or plagiarizing, to a moderate extent, without acknowledging the source
• Submitting the same work or major portions thereof to satisfy the requirements of more than one course, or the same course when repeated, without permission from the instructor
• Receiving assistance and failing to acknowledge this in a paper or research study

The instructor, in consultation with the appropriate Program Director, deals with most Level Two misconduct offenses. Actions may include

• a zero grade for an assignment,
• writing a paper on academic ethics, or
• reduction of grade, per course syllabus and/or the Student Handbook.

Records of students who commit the above type of offense will be maintained in the student’s file until the student completes the program.

Level Three Academic Dishonesty

These violations are the most serious type of offense:

• Copying another’s exam
• Plagiarizing a substantial amount of text in an assignment or assessment
• Enabling someone else to copy your material during an exam
• Using books, notes, or other forbidden aids during an examination
• Giving or receiving information about the content of an exam
• Stealing or distributing a copy of an examination
• Submitting the work of someone else as your own
• Using purchased or copied manuscripts
• Removing posted or reserved instructional material, or otherwise preventing access to it
• Inventing material (this includes citing artificial sources)
• Using illegal or unethical means of acquiring information
• Utilizing an instant messenger or phone while taking an online exam
• A repeat offender—one who has been caught more than once in an act of academic dishonesty

Students committing Level Three academic dishonesty offenses will be referred to the Professional Misconduct Committee. The Professional Misconduct Committee will make appropriate recommendations to the designated Program Director. Actions may include dismissal from the program.

Address Changes

A student’s legal home or permanent address (mailing address) is taken from the application for admission and subsequently from the student information form completed during orientation. It is the student’s responsibility to change their address. Address changes should be made through the myUSA portal. Students should provide a local address once enrolled for emergency purposes.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Assistance for Students with Disabilities

In accordance with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to any student with a disability. The University has developed a list of essential functions that a student should possess in order to successfully complete the occupational therapy and physical therapy programs. This list is provided to prospective students as part of the application packet and to newly admitted students as part of the acceptance process. Each student must endorse that he or she has reviewed and understands the list of essential functions.

To request reasonable accommodations, a student must complete the Reasonable Accommodation Request Form available through myUSA. New First Professional full-time and flex students receive this form along with instructions for making a request once they have submitted their tuition deposits.

Students should submit the completed form and appropriate documentation to disability@usa.edu no later than the first Friday after classes begin so that approved accommodations may be put in place as early as possible. A delay in submitting the request may result in not having approved accommodations for the first assignments/tests of the term.. Students may ask the Academic Advisor for clarification of the process. The Director of Disability Services will review the request and inform the student in writing of the decision. The student will be asked to sign a form indicating his or her understanding of and agreement to the accommodations.

Faculty are to adhere to the approved accommodations as provided by the student and are encouraged to seek clarification from the Director of Disability Services should there be a question about the provision of an accommodation. Should a student request something different than what is approved, the faculty member, advisor, and/or Program Director should inform the student that only the approved accommodations will be provided. Should the student wish to alter the accommodation, he or she must make a request for changes in accommodations to the Director of Disability Services via disability@usa.edu; the form is available through myUSA.

Students with a disability should expect to maintain the standards that apply to all University students and request only the accommodations approved by this process. Being penalized for having a disability is unacceptable as is expecting more than reasonable accommodations.

Any discrepancy encountered by the student or faculty in the written accommodation plan should be brought to the Director of Disability Services for review and action. Student progress may be reviewed as to their ability to perform safely and appropriately in a clinical situation. Students will be advised in writing of concerns regarding clinical performance.

Disability Policy and Grievance Procedure

It is the policy of the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences not to discriminate on the basis of disability. USAHS has adopted an internal grievance procedure providing for prompt and equitable resolution of complaints alleging any action prohibited by the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794).

Any person who believes she or he has been subjected to discrimination on the basis of disability may file a grievance under this procedure. It is against the law for USAHS to retaliate against anyone who files a grievance or cooperates in the investigation of a grievance.

Procedure:

1. Grievances must be submitted to the Director of Disability Services and/or the Executive Director of Student Administration within 30 days of the date the person filing the grievance becomes aware of the alleged discriminatory action.
2. A complaint must be in writing, containing the name and contact information (including address) of the person filing it. The complaint must state the problem or action alleged to be discriminatory and the remedy or relief sought.
3. The Director of Disability Services (or designee) shall conduct an investigation of the complaint. This investigation may be informal, but it must be thorough, affording all interested persons an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to the complaint. The Director of Disability Services (or designee) will maintain the files and records of USAHS relating to such grievances. If the complaint is against another USAHS student and alleges a violation of the Student Code of Conduct, the matter will be referred to the Grievance Committee as outlined in the Student Handbook.
4. The Director of Disability Services (or designee) will issue a written decision on the grievance no later than 30 days after its filing, unless more time is needed. In cases where more time is needed, a written update of progress and actions taken will be provided no later than 30 days after its filing.
5. The person filing the grievance may appeal the decision of the Director of Disability Services (or designee) by writing to the President/Chief Academic Officer within 5 days of receiving the Director of Disability Services’ decision. The President/Chief Academic Officer shall issue a written decision in response to the appeal no later than 30 days after its filing.
6. The availability and use of this grievance procedure does not prevent a person from filing a complaint of discrimination on the basis of disability with the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

USAHS will make appropriate arrangements to ensure that disabled persons are provided other accommodations, if needed, to participate in this grievance process. Such arrangements may include, but are not limited to, providing interpreters for the deaf, providing taped cassettes of material for the blind, or assuring a barrier-free location for the proceedings. The Director of Disability Services (or designee) will be responsible for such arrangements.

Pets and Service Animals

USAHS prohibits pets (including but not limited to dogs, cats, birds, pigs, rodents, and reptiles) from all campus buildings and grounds.  When campus security or facility personnel observe or become aware of a dog or pet on campus, they will ask the owner to immediately remove the animal from the premises. 

Service Animals

USAHS’s policy on service animals is written in compliance with ADA laws, regulations, and guidance provided by the Department of Justice.  

• To learn more about service animals and the ADA see https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm
• To review FAQs see https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.pdf

Service animals are welcome in USAHS buildings and on university grounds.  Service animals may attend any class, meeting, or university event. 

Service animals may be prohibited if the presence of the animal fundamentally alters the nature of a service or program or where the animal’s presence may compromise a sterile environment.  In addition, if a service animal is out of control and the handler does not take effective action to control it, or if it is not housebroken, that animal may be excluded.    

USAHS has the authority to require that a service animal be removed from the premises if the service animal becomes unruly or disruptive, unclean, or unhealthy to the extent that the animal’s behavior or condition poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others. If such behavior persists, the owner may be directed not to bring the animal onto USAHS grounds and facilities until the issue is resolved.

Definition of Service Animal

Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability.  The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person’s disability.  Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.

Examples of service animal work includes guiding people who are blind, alerting people who are deaf, pulling a wheelchair, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, reminding a person with mental illness to take prescribed medications, or calming a person with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder during an anxiety attack.  Service animals are working animals, not pets. 

Comfort Animals

USAHS does not allow the use of emotional support, therapy, comfort, or companion animals.  Exceptions to this rule may be handled on a case by case basis.   

Service Animals and Clinical Placement

Students requiring a service animal may experience limitations in the number of clinical sites available to them and their desired geographic location.  

Responsibility of Service Animal Owners/Handlers

The owner/handler is responsible for cleaning up after their service animal and is expected to properly dispose of all animal waste. 

The owner/handler is responsible for the cleanliness of their service animal. Daily grooming and regular baths should be performed to keep animal odor to a minimum. Flea control is essential, and preventative measures should be taken. In the event a flea problem develops, it should be dealt with immediately and effectively. Consideration of others must be taken into account when providing maintenance and hygiene of service animals.

Building Hours

Students may access campus buildings from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. local time, except during holidays and term breaks as defined on the Academic Calendar. Business offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time.

Austin campus weekend hours are 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. local time.

Business Days

The University offers classes 7 days per week. Students should refer to the course syllabus regarding due dates.

A business day refers to Administrative Offices that operate Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in each respective time zone.

Cell Phone Use on Campus

• Ringer should be turned off during class or labs.
• No text messaging is allowed during class or labs.
• Cell phone/tablet camera, audio, or video recording may not be used during class or labs unless permission is given by the instructor.
• Cell phones and cameras are to be stored in book bags or other secure locations during exams or exam review sessions, and should be either turned off or placed on vibrate. Cell phones are not allowed to be in pockets or attached to pants or lying on tables.
• If a student must make an important call, or receive an important call during class or lab hours, the student should inform and get permission from the instructor. Phones should be either turned off or placed on vibrate.
• When talking on cell phones in hallways, students should be courteous and keep voices down or move to a quiet area.
• No cell phone conversations are permitted and phones should be placed on silent when in the library or quiet-study-zone areas.

Copyright Policy

Credit Hour Policy

Definition of Credit Hour

It is the policy of the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences to establish credit hour definitions and policies for calculation. Guidelines by the Department of Education and WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) suggest that a school measure credit hours in terms of the amount of time in which a student is engaged in academic activity. A credit hour should be defined as an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency and reasonably approximates the following criteria:

1. One hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction or student engagement and a minimum of two hours of out of class student work (preparation) each week for approximately 15 weeks for 1 semester or trimester of credit, or at least an equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time [Note: For example, a 2 credit hour course over a 15-week term would require at least 30 hours of direct academic engagement (2 hours/week) and 60 hours of student preparation time (4 hours/week) for the average student. If this same course was offered over 8 weeks, the same number of hours would be required for the term, but the weekly hours would change to 4 hours/week of academic engagement and 8 hours/week of out of class (preparation) work
2. Formal laboratory instruction is also direct faculty instruction and equates to 2–3 contact hours per week per credit over a 15-week term, with documentation maintained on lab experiences and supported by the course outline/syllabus.
3. When determining online and/or face-to-face academic engagement time (excluding student preparation time), the courses should fall within certain allowable contact hours over the semester according to the number of credit hours. Courses with labs will have larger contact hours than non-lab courses.
4. A credit hour may also be an equivalent amount of work (measured in contact hours) for other academic activities established by the institution, including internships, fieldwork, practice, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.
5. Fieldwork/Internships and Clinical Rotations are calculated at 45 hours = 1 credit hour.

Per the above, the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences further defines “other academic activities” as practice of lab techniques (usually a range of 2-3 contact hours per credit), practicum, shadowing, studying, reading, preparing for assignments, group work, service learning, or other academic activities related to a specific course.

• An institution should be able to demonstrate its measurements of time allocated for learning experiences and that the learning outcomes are accomplished.
• Review of course credit content will be performed on a regular basis by way of student course evaluations, time studies within a course and curriculum, annual reports and programmatic reviews.
• All new courses should be reviewed for the above as part of the curriculum review process.
• All courses should have a descriptive table of how contact hours are spent in both instruction and academic activities in the course syllabus 

Certain types of courses cannot and will not be measured in this manner, primarily due to the subjective nature of personal study/work time of each student. These types of courses include exit exams, practicums, clinical rotation, clinical integration, independent study, directed reading, capstone courses, products demonstrating excellence, scholarly projects, comprehensive project and dissertation.

Diversity

Diversity at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is defined in three ways:

1. Representation of the student, faculty, and staff across all campuses
2. Allowing for diverse thought, leadership styles, and work environments
3. Encouraging diverse ways to teach, to promote student cultural awareness, and to engage in scholarly pursuits

Representation of the student, faculty, and staff across all campuses: The University aims to support diversity by recruiting and retaining students and employees at all levels by

• recognizing that continued success in meeting the needs of our students requires the full and active participation of talented and committed employees who represent a variety of religions, disabilities, ages, ethnicities, races, sexual orientations, and genders. Diversity of employees also includes personal and work history, education, functional ability, personality, lifestyle, socioeconomic status, geographic origin, longevity with the organization, degree-program matriculation, and level of employment within the organization;
• supporting admission to students regardless of gender, race, ethnic origin, age, disability, or sexual orientation; and
• offering educational support to all students, but especially to those with identified special needs.

Diverse thought, leadership styles, and work environment: The University believes that diversity encompasses the way we work, the work environment, and respect for people and ideas. It also encompasses varying management styles and ways of thinking, leadership abilities, skill levels, experiences, viewpoints, expression of thoughts, and differing ways of delivering services, provided there is consistency in the values we share. By fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and support, we value and appreciate the strengths afforded by the differences, styles, ideas, and organizational contributions of each person. For it is through diversity that our institutional core values and mission can best be met.

Encouraging diverse ways to teach, to promote student cultural awareness, and to engage in scholarly pursuits: The University supports faculty who offer diverse clinical expertise and approaches to patient management as a way to promote health science professional curricula that allows graduates to work with a diverse client population. Efforts are made to support cultural competence throughout the curricula and meet expected student learning outcomes in this area. Faculty are encouraged to promote diverse scholarly endeavors that involve various clinical, patient management, health promotion, and education research topics, with careful attention to the safety, confidentiality, and privacy of all research subjects.

Diversity is inclusion. It stresses equal opportunity, recognizes and respects the multitude of differences that employees and students bring to our workplace and classrooms, and acknowledges the changing face of the community we serve. The affirmation of diversity and full cooperation by all managers, supervisors, employees, and students is expected.

Email Account

Each USAHS student will be provided a University email address. Students will use email to stay connected with faculty, support staff, and other students at USAHS. Students should begin monitoring the account as soon as possible but no later than the first day of classes. The University will frequently use email to send important announcements and information. Students will be expected to be able to reply and interact in a timely manner. USAHS departments will only communicate with students using the USAHS email address.

Students may wish to use the organizational features of the email software (folders, contacts, etc.) to facilitate email management. Plan on checking email frequently and set up an electronic filing system for messages. Delete messages that have already been dealt with, and save attachments to a designated area on a hard drive.

Remember to frequently check the spam or junk mailboxes. Sometimes University emails (.edu addresses) are identified as spam and important information is missed because the email message is not in the usual inbox.

Enrollment Certifications

The National Student Clearinghouse is the University’s authorized agent for providing enrollment verifications through its Student Self‐Service program. Students can print enrollment verification certificates free of charge by logging onto the myUSA portal and opening the My Info tab, under My Verification. There is a link to Clearinghouse Self-Service. Questions regarding loan deferments should be directed to a team member from the Registrar office.

Faculty/Staff - Student Relations

The University is concerned that faculty and staff–student consensual romantic/sexual relations may be perceived to negatively affect the integrity of the institution. Those who supervise or evaluate the work of students must be perceived to be making their decisions fairly and without favoritism.

Faculty and staff are cautioned that consensual romantic/sexual relationships with students can prove to be unwise and problematic and must be avoided. When consensual relationships occur any of the following may arise:

• Such relationships may undermine the real or perceived integrity of the supervision provided and the particular trust inherent in the student–faculty and staff relationship.
• Relationships in which one party is in a position to review work or influence the academic career of the other may provide grounds for a complaint when that relationship appears to give undue access or advantage, restricts opportunities, or creates a hostile or unacceptable environment for others.
• Such relationships may, moreover, be less consensual than the individual whose position confers power believes. The relationship is likely to be perceived in different ways by each of the parties in it, especially in retrospect. While some relationships may begin and remain harmonious, they are susceptible to being characterized as unprofessional and disrespectful to others.

Additionally, any of the situations above have the potential to create charges of harassment, which could lead to legal problems for a faculty and/or staff member and the University. Therefore, faculty and staff must not engage in consensual romantic or sexual relationships with current students and will be subject to disciplinary action if found to be in contravention of this policy.

If a faculty or staff member has a preexisting consensual romantic/sexual relationship with a student, the faculty and staff member must immediately notify his or her supervisor and remove him or herself from the academic decisions concerning the student in direct collaboration with their Program Director or supervisor.

Faculty and staff must be cognizant that the professional relationship with students extends to off-campus interactions, including conference or seminar attendance and other social gatherings.

Grade Reports

Grades and unofficial transcripts may be obtained online through the myUSA portal, My Info.

ID Badges

First Professional Students

Students will receive a student identification badge that includes the student’s photograph, name, and year of enrollment. Photographs may be taken on interview day or during new student orientation. Identification badges must be worn while on University property or while engaged in any University related event. The University charges a fee for all replacement badges. All badges will remain active for 30 days after degrees are conferred to enable students to utilize the library and the Wellness Center.

Transitional and Post-Professional Students

Students on campus for a seminar/residency will receive a temporary name badge on the first day of the seminar/residency that will provide access to the campus for those days only. Transitional and Post-Professional students may request a student identification badge that includes the student’s photograph and name. To request a badge, please email the program Administrative Assistant along with a passport-type photo. Please note: badges for Transitional and Post-Professional students will only enable students to access the University’s library. When the badge is complete and ready for pick up, the program Administrative Assistant will contact the student by email. Once complete, the badge will be available in the Wellness Center during business hours. The student must provide a photo ID for verification. Identification badges must be worn while on University property or while engaged in any University-related event. There is a fee for a replacement badge. The badge will remain active for 30 days after degrees are conferred to enable students to utilize the library and the Wellness Center. Students visiting a campus that are not attending a seminar/residency or do not have a student identification badge will need to stop at the lobby and sign in as a visitor.

Internet Acceptable Use

The University is required to have a policy that explains fair use of the network (Internet/computers/phone) and to hold it harmless should a virus or other event occur as a result of using the network. This is normal and customary and protects the University, employees, and the student against frivolous litigation and claims. Computer viruses and other events are unfortunately all too common.

The University of St. Augustine reserves the right to modify its Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) at any time, effective upon either the posting of the modified AUP to www.usa.edu or notification of the modified AUP via the Student Handbook or written notice. By using the services, and thereby accepting the terms and conditions of the AUP, you agree to abide by the AUP as modified from time to time. Any violation of the AUP may result in the suspension or termination of your account.

The user (defined as anyone using computers, hardware, phones, wireless access, or Internet services) is responsible for any breaches of security affecting servers, routers, workstations, or other systems under user control. If a user’s system is involved in an attack on another network or system, it will be shut down and an immediate investigation will be launched to determine the cause/source of the attack. In such event, the user is responsible for the cost to rectify any damage done to their computer and any other requirement affected by the security breach.

If the user is accessing the wireless Internet via a personally owned computer, it is the user’s responsibility to maintain current virus definitions, operating system updates, and a firewall on his or her computer. The university takes no responsibility in any type of damage that may occur to a user’s computer, while accessing university services (wireless or other).

All users of the Internet at the University of St. Augustine are expected to use this resource in a responsible and courteous manner, consistent with the purposes for which it is provided, and to follow all Internet-related rules, regulations, and procedures established for its use.

The University provides users with access to the Internet. The Internet offers access to many valuable local, national, and international sources of information. However, not all sources provide accurate, complete, or current information.

The University makes no warranty, expressed or implied, for the timeliness, accuracy, or usefulness for a particular purpose of information accessed via the Internet. The University cannot regulate the nature or content of the information accessed nor the availability of any given Internet site. The University network/services may only be used for lawful purposes. Transmission, distribution, or storage of any information, data, or material in violation of United States or state regulation or law, or by the common law, is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, material protected by copyright, trademark, trade secret, or other intellectual property rights.

Storage of personal items (items that are not work-related) such as music, videos, pictures, emails, and documents on the University server or individual computers is not acceptable use of University resources.

Responsible use of the Internet at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences includes:

• Using the University’s Internet resources for educational and informational purposes only.
• Respecting intellectual property rights by making only authorized copies of copyrighted or licensed software or data residing on the Internet.
• Refraining from attempts to codify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others, and by not seeking disallowed access to any computer system via the Internet.
• Refraining from illegal or unethical use of the Internet.
• Refraining from damaging or altering the configuration of the equipment used to access the Internet at the University.
• Refraining from altering or damaging software or data residing on the Internet.
• Refraining from the deliberate propagation of computer worms and viruses.

Guidelines for Internet Use

The University provides individual Internet email accounts for all degree seeking students. All University communication will be through the University email address.

Failure to use the Internet appropriately, legally and responsibly will result in

• suspension or termination of a student’s University account,
• a hearing before the Professional Misconduct Committee or Human Resources for harassment, or
• referral to the respective Program Director for further disciplinary action.

Use of File Transfer Between Home and Work Computers

The Internet has become more dangerous than ever. Virus applications and malware are now easily hidden on commonly used web pages. Internet criminals have devised methods for infecting computers when users visit a URL they may have found to be safe previously. For this reason, it has become necessary to require those who transfer files from home to work (via email, USB drive, CD, etc.) to have a good anti-virus/antimalware application installed on their home computers. That software must be kept up-to-date.

The IT department also strongly recommends students allow Windows updates to occur on a regular basis, turn on their firewall, and check frequently to insure all anti-virus updates are occurring on a regular basis.

Wireless Internet Access Policy

Wireless access is available in certain areas of the campus, though coverage and up-time is not guaranteed. If students have a laptop computer, tablet, or smart phone with a mobile-ready processor, they will be able to access the Internet while on campus. The university wireless network operates in the same fashion as any commercial wireless access point; it is not secure.

It is a user’s responsibility to keep his or her operating system up to date with all security patches and service packs. Firewall software is also recommended. Prevention is better than cure, and by following these simple guidelines, the wireless network can remain safe for fellow users.

When users sign on to the wireless network, they are accepting the rules and regulations of the University AUP. Additionally, they are accepting responsibility for all security breaches or virus damage that may occur to their computer while accessing the University wireless network. The technical help desk and personnel at the University are not available to evaluate or fix student computers.

Social Networking—Acceptable Use

Social networking online tools and services, as defined below, make it very easy to create accounts for these services, upload content, and then tag the content. The tagging makes the networking possibilities very powerful, which may draw many viewers.

Many students, educators, employees, and administrators are aware of the great potential these social networking services may provide; however, they also recognize the potential dangers of such services. The following are guidelines for use of social networking tools.

Students should limit use of social networking to their personal computers as most sites are known to have malicious software associated with at least part of the website.

NOTE: Please be sure to review Privacy Settings for Facebook accounts to make sure that personal and private information is not shared with the general public. To get to privacy settings, click the account menu at the top right of the Facebook page, and choose Privacy Settings. This page contains a group of general controls for the Facebook account, such as who can send friend requests and messages. For everything else that is shared on Facebook, the audience can be chosen when posting. Use this link for more information: http://www.facebook.com/help/privacy

Definition

For the purpose of this policy, social media can take many different forms, including Internet forums, blogs and microblogs, online profiles, wikis, podcasts, pictures and videos, email, instant messaging, music-sharing, and voice over IP, to name just a few. Examples of social media applications are LinkedIn, Facebook, Myspace, Wikipedia, YouTube, Twitter, Yelp, Flickr, Second Life, Yahoo groups, WordPress, ZoomInfo—the list is endlessly growing.

Policy on Peer-to-Peer (P2P) File Sharing

The University of St. Augustine is committed to avoiding misuse of its computer network, including use of the computer network to violate the Copyright Law of the United States. All students, faculty, and staff should have a basic understanding of the Copyright Law. Please refer to employee, faculty, and student handbooks for more information on the University copyright policy.

Campus computer networks have been popular sources of reproduction and distribution of illegal music, movies, television shows, pictures, and software through the use of peer-to-peer (P2) networks. When the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences receives a formal complaint from a copyright holder, the University notifies the individual involved and passes along any information received from the copyright holder to that individual. The University does not supply any information to the copyright holder about the individual involved unless a valid subpoena is presented.

Active efforts are in place to prohibit the use of illegal file sharing and the University of St. Augustine employs Open DNS filtering, which blocks access to all known file distributions sites.

Leave of Absence (Including Emergency Leave)  New Policy

Leave of Absence Policy (LOA) - NEW POLICY EFFECTIVE SPRING 2018

USAHS expects its students to maintain continuous registration in an academic program. However, the University understands situations may arise during a student’s time at USAHS that may warrant a break in registration.  To accommodate these situations, the University has developed the following LOA policy.

Emergency LOA:

To request an Emergency LOA, a student must complete the LOA Request Form, located on the myUSA portal Students tab, and forward the completed form to an Advisor for approval.  A student should apply in advance for an Emergency LOA. If a student fails to provide documentation, or does not receive approval for an Emergency LOA, the student may receive failing grades for all courses for that term which may result in dismissal from the program.

If a student is unable to apply in advance for an Emergency LOA due to unforeseen circumstances, the University may grant the request if the LOA Request Form and sufficient documentation is submitted upon the student’s return.

An Emergency Leave of Absence will be considered for review only if the request meets the following criteria:

1. The request is for a medical emergency (student or immediate family member) or bereavement (death of an immediate family member.) Immediate family member is defined as spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, grandchild; a spouse’s parent, child, sibling, grand parent, grandchild; and a child’s spouse.
2. The request is for a financial hardship (job relocation, job termination, loss of housing).
3. The LOA Request Form includes the student’s signature, date of request, and any supporting documentation for the request (i.e. medical documentation, obituary, eviction notice, etc.)

An Emergency LOA is limited to 180 days in one calendar year. Students requesting an Emergency LOA should keep in mind the following:

• 2 weeks or less
  • If the Emergency LOA is shorter than or equal to two weeks (14 calendar days) the student has the option to come back within the current trimester. However, it is the student’s responsibility to stay in communication with the instructor(s) and to make-up any work during the Emergency LOA.
• More than 2 weeks
  • Students taking more than two weeks will be withdrawn from all courses and will be required to repeat the courses in a subsequent term. Students cannot return from an LOA longer than 2 weeks in the middle of a term.
  • The student must return at the start of a subsequent term within 180 days. Students who are unable to return within 180 days are subject to withdrawal from the program. 

Planned Educational LOA:

The Planned Educational LOA is intended to provide students with an opportunity to pursue other activities outside the University related to their educational or professional goals.  Students requesting a Planned Educational LOA must have a definitive objective that contributes to their educational goals. To request a Planned Educational LOA, a student must complete the LOA Request Form, located on the myUSA portal Students tab, and forward the completed form to an Advisor for Approval.  Approval of a Planned Educational LOA is contingent on the following:

1. The student must be in good academic standing.
2. The student must submit the request at least one week prior to the start of the trimester. A Planned Educational LOA will not be granted if the request is submitted once the trimester has begun.
3. The student has support from the Program Director to take a Planned Educational LOA.
4. The Planned Educational LOA request is no longer than one full trimester (105 days).
5. The student includes a statement describing how the Planned Educational LOA will contribute to their educational goals.

Students who have been approved for a Planned Educational LOA must notify the Registrar in writing of their intention to return to the program as soon as possible and no later than 1 week prior to their scheduled return date for scheduling purposes. Please note: Financial aid may be delayed depending on the time frame in which the student notifies the Registrar’s office of their return. 

Military LOA:

Current students called to active military service will be required to follow the same procedures for requesting any other LOA. Acceptable supporting documentation for this type of request is military orders. Students who begin Military LOA during a term will be refunded their tuition for that term. A Military LOA may be for the duration of military service and is not limited to the leave time frame set forth in the Emergency LOA and Planned Educational LOA guidelines. 

Administrative LOA:

The University reserves the right to place students on Administrative LOA. The student must return at the start of a subsequent term within 180 days. Students who are unable to return within 180 days are subject to withdrawal from the program. 

Issues to Consider Prior to Requesting a LOA

Scholarship students:

Depending on the specific scholarship guidelines, students on a Planned Educational LOA may have to forfeit their scholarship funds upon their return. Scholarships will not be affected for students who are on an Emergency LOA.

Students with private education loans:

Students with private education loans requesting an LOA of any type, must consider how it will impact their loan status. Specifically, students should consider how this will impact the grace period for repayment of the loan. Prior to requesting an LOA of any type, the University recommends students receiving private education loans contact their lender.

Students receiving Title IV Funds:

Students receiving Title IV Funds (Federal Student Loans) should be aware that an LOA from the University may impact their financial aid.  A university-approved LOA may not qualify a student for a loan payment deferral as it relates to federal financial aid. The student must consult with the Financial Aid Office prior to submitting the LOA request form. If a student receiving Title IV funds is considering taking a Planned Educational LOA or an Emergency LOA lasting longer than 14 calendar days (two weeks), they must be aware of the following:

• In accordance with Federal Financial Aid regulations, the total amount of leave taken by the student must not exceed 180 days in any 12-month period. The 12-month period begins on the first day of the initial Leave of Absence.
• If a Title IV student is withdrawn from the University due to failure to return from an LOA this may affect the student’s loan repayment terms, including the expiration of the student’s grace period.
• Students approved for an LOA are required to complete exit counseling prior to the beginning of the leave.

International Students:

International students must meet with an Advisor before submitting an LOA Request Form to ensure compliance with their visa status.

General Notice to Students Considering an LOA:

• If a student fails to return from an LOA, the student will be withdrawn from the University. The student’s withdrawal date will be the date the student began the leave.

• Students who are withdrawn or dismissed for failure to return from an LOA, may reapply as a prospective student to the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences.
• A student cannot exceed 180 days in any 12-month period. (This excludes Military LOA). The 12-month period begins on the first day of the initial LOA.

• The University reserves the right to reassess the “Essential Functions for Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy” of any student returning from any LOA and to decline or conditionally approve his or her resumption of classes if he or she is unable to meet the essential functions with reasonable accommodations.
• Upon returning from an LOA, a student who has been receiving reasonable accommodations must reapply to the Director of Disability Services to have accommodations reinstated.

myUSA Portal

myUSA is a web portal for the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences community. It is accessible through the home page of the University website, www.usa.edu. Click on myUSA in the upper right hand corner of the home page. Certain tabs (sections) of the portal are accessible to all, while some require a username (student ID #) and password.

Students will use the myUSA portal to access grades and forms, update personal information, view schedules and financial account information, utilize library resources, register for distance education courses, order transcripts, and much more.

If a student has forgotten his or her password (he or she will need to know the username) he or she must follow the instructions below:

1. Click on myUSA (upper left hand corner of www.usa.edu).
2. Enter the username and click the “I forgot my password” link.
3. Click on “Send new password.”
   1. A new password will be sent to the email address the University has on file. If the student does not receive the password, he or she will need to verify the email address with the Registrar’s Office.
4. After receiving the new password, log on to the myUSA portal and click on “Personal Info.” Click on the Password tab and then reset the password to something secure that is easily remembered.
5. Log in one more time to verify that the new password is working.

Please note that students should have two sets of usernames and passwords:

1. Student information myUSA (portal) username and password allow students to access their online courses, printable financial information for tax purposes, grade reports, unofficial transcripts, etc.
2. University of St. Augustine online library catalog username and password enables access to the library catalog only, not the online resources like full text journal articles, eBooks, and databases. Please see the information about these resources on the myUSA portal Library tab for details on how to access them.

If a student has misplaced his or her library catalog username and password that was issued by the library, please email library@usa.edu for assistance.

Name Change

Requests for a change in the name as it appears on the student’s academic record must be made in writing and accompanied by a copy of one of the following: social security card, drivers’ license, passport, military ID, divorce decree, or professional license. The name change form may be found on the myUSA portal, Student Services tab, under Forms.

Nondiscrimination/Anti-Harassment Policy

It is the policy of the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences that each member of the University community be permitted to work or attend class in an environment free from any form of discrimination, including race, creed, color, age, disability, gender, marital status, national origin, veteran status, religion, sexual orientation, and sexual harassment, as prohibited by state and federal statutes. This policy applies to students, faculty, employees, and applicants for admission or employment.

For sexual discrimination concerns, refer to the Sexual Misconduct and Relationship Violence Prevention Policy in this handbook.

For disability discrimination concerns, refer to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) policy in this handbook.

For all other concerns under this policy, refer to the Academic Policies and Procedures   in this handbook.

Parking

The University is an independent organization, and as such, the property and parking lots are private property. The operation and/or parking of any vehicle on University of St. Augustine property is a privilege, not a right. The University has the right to regulate the use of motor vehicles on its property for the good and safety of everyone. Carpooling is strongly encouraged whenever possible.

The University is not liable for break-ins or other damage to any vehicle, including student vehicles. Every effort will be made by University staff and personnel to ensure student safety whenever possible. Reports of damage to vehicles should be filed with local authorities, with a copy to the University Student Services Office.

Vehicles parked in violation of University regulations are subject to being booted or towed without notice by the University. The student is required to pay the boot fee or to contact the towing company to make arrangements for retrieving his or her vehicle and paying the towing fee.

Flex St. Augustine, Florida Campus

Flex students may use the permanent University student parking lot on weekends. (Note: After 5:00 p.m. students may park in the west and south visitor/staff/faculty parking lots).

Flex Austin, Texas Campus

Students are permitted to park in any of the parking spots on the perimeter of the three buildings, excluding designated visitor or handicapped spots, unless the appropriate parking permit is displayed.

Commuter Alternatives Program

USAHS is focused on providing its students, staff and faculty with options to enhance the experiences on campus. USAHS is conscious of the carbon footprint and the impact the university has on the local environment. In an effort to balance both, the university offers the Commuter Alternatives Program (CAP). 

Through CAP, the university will provide participants with incentives for carpooling, bicycling, walking or taking public transportation to and from campus.

Students, faculty and staff can participate in one of the following options:

1. Carpooling - Two or more participants who wish to ride together may enroll in CAP under the carpool option. Participants who choose this option will each receive a $50 Amazon gift card each term and one CAP Parking Permit hang tag to be shared among the carpool team members. Carpool teams must register together and complete the CAP form with the carpool box checked. Participants who choose to sign up for this option for the first time will be required to turn in the originally issued USAHS Student or Staff/Faculty parking permit at the time of registration. Participants who were signed up under this option from the previous term will be required to exchange their expired CAP Parking Permit for a current permit.
2. Bike, Public Transportation or Walk - Participants who rely on alternate methods of transportation may enroll in CAP under the Bike, Public Transportation or Walk option. Participants who choose this option will receive a $50 Amazon gift card each term, in lieu of a parking permit to park on campus. Participants who choose to sign up for this option for the first time will be required to turn in the originally issued USAHS Student or Staff/Faculty parking permit at the time of registration. Participants who were signed up under this option  from the previous term will be required to confirms their enrollment for the current period. In addition to the $50 gift card, participants will be entered into a drawing each month to receive a $100 gift card.

Due to demand, CAP Permits are limited and will be handed out on a first come - first serve basis. CAP registration for incoming students will take place during orientation. CAP enrollment and re-enrollment will take place at the front reception desk Monday - Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

As a reminder, only vehicles that display a USAHS Student Parking Permit, a CAP Parking Permit or a USAHS Staff/Faculty Permit are authorized to park on campus property. Please note, at most campuses, local ordinances restrict off-campus parking on local city streets, at local businesses and in residential neighborhoods. Vehicles that fail to properly display the required permit will be subject to citation and/or impound.

For questions about the CAP, contact Greg Breen at gbreen@usa.edu. 

St. Augustine Campus

Students are not permitted to park in the north, west, and south patient/visitor/staff/faculty parking lots from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST. Students who are parked in these lots will be issued a parking citation of $25.00. The parking citation money will go to the students’ professional organization. (Note: After 5:00 p.m. students may park in the west and south visitor/staff/faculty parking lots). Students may park in front of the main entrance for a maximum of 15 minutes to deliver items to faculty/staff or pick up items. This policy is subject to change.

When resident classes are not in session but the University is otherwise open, students are required to use only the student parking lot so as not to interfere with regular business operations of the University.

Additional provisions of the University parking policy are as follows:

• No parking is permitted along the curbs of the student parking lot.
• No parking is permitted adjacent to University property—that is, access and side roads and other business’ parking lots.
• No parking is permitted on the extreme northern facing parking spots “carved” into the Orthopaedic Associates space.
• No double-parking is permitted.
• Excessive speed in the student parking lot or in accessing University roadways is prohibited.
• All automobiles must be locked while on University property.
• All stop signs and stop bars are to be observed.
• Parking in the gravel lot is permitted but may be limited due to other University functions.
• Students are not permitted to park in the parking spots on the driveway entering and exiting the University.
• Access to the student parking lot is via San Bartolo Avenue. Access through the Flagler Hospital Emergency Room entrance road is prohibited.

San Marcos Campus

Students are not permitted to park in any of the parking spots on the perimeter of the two buildings excluding designated visitor, handicapped, or car pool spots unless the appropriate parking permit is displayed.

Currently there is no charge for parking, but the University reserves the right to begin charging for parking in the future if it is deemed necessary.

Students are responsible for any parking tickets received from the city for improperly parking on the street.

Any students who are parked in unapproved spots in the parking lot will be issued a parking citation of $50.00 by the University. The parking citation money will go to the respective student professional association.

Additional provisions of the University parking policy include the following:

• No parking is permitted along the curbs of Windy Point Drive, Borden Road, or streets within defined neighborhoods.
• No parking is permitted at the red curbs or in handicapped or visitor spots (unless you have the necessary designation).
• No double-parking is permitted.
• Excessive speed in the parking lot is prohibited.
• All automobiles must be locked while on University property.
• All stop signs are to be observed.
• No overnight parking is allowed.

Because of city ordinances and traffic plans, alternative transportation is encouraged. These options include the following:

• Carpooling: Carpooling is strongly encouraged whenever possible. To encourage this activity, premium parking spots between the two buildings are reserved for registered carpoolers. Registration for carpooling will be announced, and a special sticker must be displayed on all vehicles used on campus. Car pool groups must re-register at the beginning of each term with the University receptionist.
• Bike to school: Bike racks are available for individuals biking to school. Always secure your bike with an appropriately applied chain and lock.
• Public transportation: North County Transit offers a public transportation system called the Sprinter. The closest station to the campus is San Marcos Civic Center Station (#12). It is about three quarters of a mile from this station to the campus. There are currently no public bus options to the campus. Students can ride the Sprinter and bike/walk to the campus. For more information about light rail visit http://www.gonctd.com/sprinter-stations.htm.

Austin Campus

Students are not permitted to park in any of the parking spots on the perimeter of the two buildings, excluding designated visitor, handicapped, or car pool spots unless the appropriate parking permit is displayed. All University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences students are responsible for any parking tickets received for improperly parking on the street. Any students who are parked in unapproved spots in the parking lot will be issued a parking citation of $25.00 by the University. The parking citation money will go to the respective student professional association.

Additional provisions of the University parking policy are as follows:

• No parking is permitted at any time along the curbs of the student parking lot.
• No parking is permitted in handicapped or visitor spots without the appropriate designation.
• Students should not park on the streets surrounding the campus. It is important to be considerate and avoid causing problems for surrounding neighborhoods and businesses.
• No parking is permitted behind construction areas.
• No double-parking is permitted.
• Excessive speed in the student parking lot or in accessing University roadways is prohibited.
• All automobiles must be locked while on University property.
• All stop signs are to be observed.

Miami Campus

Ample parking is available.

Parking policies may differ by program. For more information, students should refer to their program section of the Handbook.

Photocopying/Printers

All campuses of the University of St. Augustine Library offer photocopiers, scanners, and printers for student use at a cost of $0.10 per black and white page and $0.35 per color page. Scanning is free. For the specific rules and procedures at your campus, please ask in the library or see the Campus Resources page on the myUSA portal Library tab. Refer to the University’s copyright policy to avoid printing materials inappropriately.

Registration

All First Professional students will be “block” registered by the Registrar’s Office prior to each term for the regularly scheduled courses. Any student not following the planned curriculum should work with his or her advisor and submit an advisor approved schedule to the Registrar’s Office as early as possible for next term registration. Delay in submission of the alternate schedule may delay Financial Aid packaging.

Transitional and Post-Professional students register for coursework online. Log into the myUSA portal, select the Student Services tab, and then select Registrar tab, and choose Post Professional Registration. From there, students will be able to register for coursework and step-by-step instructions are provided. To register for Continuing Education seminars, please go to the Continuing Education tab of the University’s website at www.usa.edu. If assistance is required regarding registration, consult the program’s Administrative Assistant.

Release of Student Information

The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences complies with the provisions of Public Law 93-380, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, in reference to student records.

Students must consent to the release of any student information other than directory information to any person or agency. This consent must be in writing, signed, and dated. The consent must specify the information to be released, the reason for release, and the names of the individual or agency to whom the information is to be released. The Registrar’s Office is responsible for fulfilling requests for student information.

Replacement Diploma

Replacement diplomas may be obtained by contacting the Registrar’s Office. The fee is $25.00 plus $5.00 for shipping.

Security Policy

Reporting Emergency Situations and Security Concerns

Emergency situations involving a threat to life or property should be reported to the police (911) and communicated immediately thereafter to the University by calling 800-241-1027. The University of St. Augustine encourages all students, faculty, and staff to be involved in campus crime prevention.

For instances of rape/sexual misconduct, please see the Sexual Misconduct and Relationship Violence Prevention Policy in this Handbook.

If other types of improprieties occur, these should be reported immediately to the University by calling 800-241-1027. At that time, a report of the incident will be written and statements taken.

Emergency and Safety Procedures

The Emergency Operations Plan is available on the main website: https://www.usa.edu/safety-security/ 

Medical Emergency

Call 911 immediately and render first aid as able. Stay with the individual until emergency services arrive. When a student is injured, he or she should complete a Student Incident Report Form found on the myUSA portal Students tab, and file this form, together with any other forms required, with his or her health insurance provider. A copy of the report form should also be provided to the University via fax, 904-826-0085.

Structural Emergency

Upon hearing an alarm, students will follow the posted evacuation procedures, following exit signs that are displayed. Stay a safe distance from the building until emergency services arrive.

Weather Emergency

In the event of a weather emergency—such as a hurricane or tornado—students, faculty, and staff will be alerted of any campus cancellations or delays via email, text message, and phone calls to their cell phones. “All Clear” messages will alert the community when it is safe to return to campus.

Natural Disaster Emergency

In the event of a natural disaster—such as a wildfire or earthquake evacuation—students (and family members) are asked to monitor the University website for any cancellation or restart dates and times. Further information will be given by faculty and/or staff at the time of the emergency. Information about reopening will also be given via the University voice mail system by calling the main number: 800-241-1027.

Safety on Campus

Certain safeguards are in place to ensure as safe of an environment as possible. These safety features include the following:

• In case of an emergency, all students will be notified via School Messenger.
• Exterior building doors are locked and access is available only to those with appropriate card access.
• Talk-A-Phones are located throughout the parking lots and University grounds with emergency phones.
• A security guard is available on campus after 5:00 p.m. and designated weekends when the campus is open for student access.
• All faculty, staff, and students are expected to wear name tags at all times.
• All visitors must report to the administration building (or the security guard desk after hours) for permission to enter the campus, to receive a visitor’s badge, and to be escorted as appropriate by a campus employee/security guard.
• Emergency contacts and evacuation plans are posted in all classrooms and student/employee meeting areas. Telephones are available in all classrooms.
• To ensure your safety on campus, be personally responsible by
  • being alert to unsafe situations and reporting them immediately to University employees;
  • keeping the exterior doors closed and/or locked (do not prop open);
  • not allowing non-University individuals to enter the building with you;
  • reporting lost/stolen card access name badges immediately to the University receptionist;
  • not walking to your car alone in the dark. Use the “buddy system,” especially when you feel your personal safety may be threatened. Do not enter any situation or location where you feel threatened or unsafe; and
  • not leaving valuables in plain sight in your car. Lock these items in your trunk or remove them.

Unlawful and Controlled Substances Policy

It is unlawful for any person to sell, manufacture, deliver, or possess with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver a controlled substance. Any person violating the provisions of respective state, county, or federal law may be guilty of a felony, or, in some cases, a misdemeanor of the first degree, and may be subject to punishment as provided in the municipal codes. This punishment can include imprisonment, fines, forfeiture of property, and, in some cases, loss of business licenses. It should be noted that under state sentencing guidelines, punishment may become successively more severe for second and third violations.

USAHS will impose sanctions on students and/or employees for violation of the standards of conduct consistent with local, state, and federal laws. Sanctions may include disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment, expulsion, and referral for prosecution.

Alcohol Policy

USAHS complies with appropriate state statutes and city ordinances dealing with the consumption of alcoholic beverages on USAHS premises and at any function in which USAHS’s name is involved. Students and their guests who consume any alcoholic beverage on campus or at an event sponsored by USAHS or any entity of USAHS must be at least 21 years of age and must be able to furnish proof of age at the event. USAHS and its agents reserve the right to refuse to serve alcoholic beverages to anyone who is visibly intoxicated or whose behavior, at the sole discretion of USAHS and its agents, warrants the refusal of service. Any individual who arrives at a USAHS function either on or off campus in a visibly intoxicated state may, at the sole discretion of USAHS or its agents, be denied entrance to the event.

Drug and Alcohol Counseling

Students who desire drug and alcohol abuse counseling should contact the Dean or Program Director so that a referral to the appropriate agency may be made. Students may also refer to the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Policy located on the myUSA portal, Student Services tab.

Tobacco Policy

USAHS is a smoke- and tobacco-free environment. Smoking is not permitted on any University campus. Smokeless tobacco and e-cigarettes are not permitted in any University building.

Prohibited Weapons Policy

The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences desires to maintain a safe environment for all of its students, faculty members, staff members, contractors, and visitors. This policy seeks to reduce the risk of injury or death associated with the intentional or accidental use of weapons.

The possession, transfer, sale, or use of weapons, dangerous instruments, or paraphernalia associated with a weapon is prohibited on University premises. This includes those licensed to carry a weapon, except as provided by the law of the state in which the USAHS campus is located (please refer to local state law as these vary from state to state). This restriction includes, but is not limited to, University grounds, offices, classrooms, University-sponsored events, and vehicles being used to conduct University business. Possession of weapons is prohibited at all times while conducting University business. This policy applies to all students, faculty, and staff of the University, and violation may result in discipline up to and including termination of employment or expulsion. Where appropriate, University officials will report the transfer, sale, or use of weapons or dangerous instruments to local law enforcement authorities.

Definitions

The University prohibits any weapon, including:

• firearms (including concealed handguns and BB guns, whether loaded or unloaded);
• knives (including switchblades, stilettos, swords, etc.);
• police batons or nightsticks;
• all martial arts weapons;
• electronic defense weapons, except as provided by law; and
• any other dangerous instrument.

A “dangerous instrument” is defined as any instrument, article, or substance that, under immediate circumstances, is capable of causing death or physical injury. Any member of the campus community who has a question as to whether an instrument, article, or substance is considered a weapon in violation of this policy should ask for clarification from appropriate University officials (supervisors, academic department heads, etc.) prior to bringing the instrument, article, or substance on to University premises. Exceptions to the prohibited weapons policy must be approved beforehand by a representative of the President’s Office. Any weapon on University premises may be confiscated. There is no reasonable expectation of privacy with respect to weapons on campus, and desks, workstations, offices, lockers, bags, briefcases, files, etc. may be subject to reasonable security searches.

If you observe suspicious behavior, report this immediately to your supervisor, program director, or campus security.

Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Grievance Reporting Policy and Procedures

The United States Department of Education (DOE) mandates that institutions comply with specific requirements under Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972. Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex. University of St. Augustine is committed to providing a safe educational and working environment for its students, faculty, staff, and other members of the university community.

University of St. Augustine believes that all members of the University community should be free from all acts of sexual misconduct, including sexual assault, sexual harassment and discrimination, sexual exploitation, relationship violence, and stalking. All members of the University community and all visitors, regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression are advised that any sexual misconduct by any student, employee, or third party is prohibited. Any attempt to commit sexual misconduct, or to assist or willfully encourage any such act, is a violation of this Policy. Sexual misconduct is contrary to the basic values of University of St. Augustine, which include promoting a sense of community, fostering learning, instilling integrity, and achieving excellence. University of St. Augustine is committed to providing for the prompt and equitable resolution of all complaints of sexual misconduct.

This Policy applies to all complaints of sexual misconduct in University of St. Augustine’s education programs and activities. It prohibits conduct that: occurs on campus or other University property; occurs in connection with University educational programs or activities, whether on or off-campus; or otherwise affects the University community. This Policy prohibits sexual misconduct by all third parties (including but not limited to visitors, guests, volunteers and contractors) on University of St. Augustine campuses and during university activities. It also applies to applicants for admission to, or employment with, the University of St. Augustine.

Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from the University for students and termination of employment for faculty and staff. When used in this Policy the term “complainant” refers to a person claiming that a violation of this Policy occurred, and the term “respondent” refers to a person accused of violating this Policy.

1. Definitions

Consent: Consent is defined at University St. Augustine as a clear and unambiguous agreement expressed in mutually understandable words or actions to voluntarily engage in specific sexual or intimate activity or conduct. Conduct will be considered “without consent” if no clear affirmative consent, verbal or otherwise, is given. Consent is not present (1) if obtained through the use of force, threat, coercion, or intimidation; or (2) when an individual is incapacitated, such as by consumption of drugs or alcohol or being unconscious or asleep; or (3) if given by someone who is not able to effectively communicate or to understand the nature of the conduct being engaged in. Silence or an absence of resistance on the part of the individual does not imply or constitute consent. Past consent does not imply future consent. Consent can be withdrawn at any time. Consent to engage in sexual activity with one person does not imply consent to engage in sexual activity with another.

Relationship violence: Relationship violence means a violent act committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic nature or intimate nature with the complainant, as determined by the length of the relationship, the type of relationship, and the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship. Relationship violence includes dating violence and domestic violence.

Retaliation: Retaliation means intimidating, threatening, coercing, or in any way discriminating against an individual because the individual made a report of a claim of sexual misconduct or participated in any way in the investigation or resolution of such a report or complaint, or exercised any right or responsibility under this Policy.

Sexual Discrimination: Sexual discrimination for the purpose of this policy is defined as including, but not limited to, treating individuals differently because of their gender or sexual orientation, in connection with the terms and conditions of employment or educational opportunities. Discrimination does not occur, however, when an individual is treated differently than another individual for legitimate reasons.

Sexual Assault: Sexual assault is non-consensual physical contact of a sexual nature. Sexual assault includes rape and any other acts using force, threat, intimidation, or coercion, or taking advantage of a victim’s inability to make reasoned decisions about sexual activity. This includes:

1. Non-Consensual Sexual Intercourse: Non-consensual sexual intercourse is any sexual intercourse, however slight, with any object, by one person upon another, which is without consent and/or by force. It includes vaginal penetration by a penis, object, tongue or finger, anal penetration by a penis, object, tongue, or finger, and oral copulation (mouth to genital contact or genital to mouth contact), no matter how slight the penetration or contact.
2. Non-Consensual Sexual Contact: Non-consensual sexual contact is any intentional sexual touching, however slight, with any object by a person upon another person that is without consent and/or by force, threat or intimidation. It includes intentional contact with the genitals, breasts, thighs, buttocks, anus, or groin, touching another with any of these body parts, or making another touch you or themselves with or on any of these body parts, any intentional bodily contact in a sexual manner, though not involving contact with/of/by genitals, breasts, thighs, buttock, anus, groin, mouth or other orifice. It also includes attempted non-consensual intercourse.
3. Statutory rape: Sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent in the applicable jurisdiction.

Sexual Exploitation: Sexual exploitation occurs when an individual takes non-consensual or abusive sexual advantage of another for his/her own advantage or benefit, or to benefit or advantage anyone other than the one being exploited. Examples include but are not limited to: invasion of sexual privacy, prostituting another student, non-consensual video or audio-taping or photography of sexual activity, distributing sexual or intimate information, images or recordings of another without that individual’s consent, going beyond the boundaries of consent (such as allowing friends to hide in the closet watching consensual sex), voyeurism, knowingly transmitting an STD or HIV to another student, exposing one’s genitals in non-consensual circumstances or inducing another to expose his/her genitals, and sexually-based bullying, including, but not limited to, through social media.

Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment can include, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; unwelcome physical contact of a sexual nature; e-mails containing inappropriate sexual content; obscene or harassing phone calls or jokes of a sexual nature; suggestive gestures, sounds, stares, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

a. Submission to such conduct is made, either explicitly or implicitly, a term or condition of a student’s academic progress;

b. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for decisions affecting assessment of academic progress; or

c. Such conduct, by instructors, staff, or students, including between students, has the purpose or effect of interfering with      academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.

Sexual Misconduct: Sexual misconduct includes, but is not limited to, sexual discrimination, sexual exploitation, sexual harassment, sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking. While the University of St. Augustine School may use different standards and definitions than state criminal codes, sexual misconduct often overlaps with crimes under applicable criminal codes.

Stalking: Stalking is engaging in a course of conduct that would cause a reasonable person to suffer substantial emotional distress or to fear for his or her safety or the safety of others. A course of conduct means two or more acts in which a person follows, monitors, observes, surveils, communicates with another person, threatens, intimidates or communicates with or about another person, or vandalizes another person’s property.

2. Reporting Violations of This Policy

Students, faculty, or staff members who believe that they are a victim of sexual misconduct should contact the Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for receiving and processing, in a timely manner, reports from students, faculty, staff, and administrators regarding rights and responsibilities concerning sexual misconduct in violation of Title IX.

Any questions or complaints regarding Title IX may be referred to the University of St. Augustine’s Title IX Coordinator and Title IX Deputy Coordinators or to the Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights – Regional Division Offices listed below.

Filing a Criminal Complaint: Students, faculty, and staff members have the right to file both a criminal complaint and a Title IX complaint simultaneously.

To file a criminal complaint please contact the local police department for your campus listed below.

University of St. Augustine’s Florida Campuses

University of St. Augustine California Campus

University of St. Augustine Texas Campus

Students, faculty, and staff members must report an incident of alleged discrimination to a “Responsible Employee.” For the purposes of this policy, the “Responsible Employees” are the Title IX Coordinator, Deputy Title IX Coordinator, the Executive Director of Student Affairs, and the Program Director. For complaints where both the complainant and respondent are employees, “Responsible Employees” is the Human Resources Campus Manager.

University of St. Augustine takes all reports of sexual misconduct seriously and, upon receiving notice of any alleged violation of this Policy, shall take immediate steps to conduct a thorough, prompt, and appropriate investigation of the complaint.

A complainant who contacts the Title IX Coordinator or Responsible Employee with an allegation of Sexual Misconduct will be notified of his or her right to confidentiality and his or her right to remain anonymous and how that may affect the University’s ability to conduct an investigation. Please note that there are certain situations where the University may not be able to guarantee confidentiality or anonymity. If the complainant wishes to move forward with the process, he or she will be asked a series of questions to provide information. If the complainant prefers, he or she may complete the information from the form and submit it to the Title IX Coordinator. The Sexual Misconduct or Discrimination Complaint Incident Report is available from the Title IX Coordinator or by downloading here: Sexual Misconduct or Discrimination Complaint Incident Report. In certain circumstances, it may be necessary for the complaint to go forward even if the complainant does not consent to that course of action.

University of St. Augustine strongly supports the complainant’s right to confidentiality in cases involving sexual misconduct. Complainants have the right to ask that their names not be disclosed to the alleged perpetrators. However, there are limited situations in which the university must override a complainant’s request for confidentiality in order to meet the institution’s legal obligations under Title IX. In these situations, the information will only be shared with individuals who are responsible for handling the University’s response to incidents of sexual violence. Given the sensitive nature of reports of sexual violence, the University shall ensure that the information is maintained in a secure manner. If the complainant requests that his or her name not be revealed to the alleged perpetrator or if complainant asks the university not to investigate or seek action against the alleged perpetrator, the University of St. Augustine will be limited in its ability to respond fully to the incident, including taking disciplinary action against the alleged perpetrator. If the complainant still requests that his or her name not be disclosed to the alleged perpetrator, or that the university not investigate or seek action against the alleges perpetrator, the Title IX Coordinator will need to determine whether or not the institution can honor such a request while providing a safe and nondiscriminatory environment for all students, faculty, and staff.

3. Determination of interim measures

Upon notification of an incident of sexual misconduct, University of St. Augustine shall take steps to ensure equal access to its education programs and activities and protect the complainant as necessary, including taking interim measures before the final outcome of an investigation. These measures are designed to protect the Complainant and provide the Complainant with options to avoid contact with the alleged perpetrator. These measures may include a change in academic activities, living, transportation, dining, and working situation as appropriate. After the initial report of alleged sexual misconduct, possible immediate interim suspension can be invoked on the accused (“Respondent”) if there is a reasonable cause to believe the Respondent’s behavior is of such a nature as to pose a threat of harm or injury to the Complainant or any other member of the campus community. The Title IX Coordinator shall work with the Complainant to determine what, if any, interim measures shall be implemented.

4. Student Amnesty Policy and Bystander Intervention

University of St. Augustine encourages the reporting of sexual misconduct. Sometimes, students may be reluctant to come forward and report an incident of sexual misconduct, or serve as a witness, because they are concerned that they may be charged with violating other campus polices, such as University of St. Augustine’s alcohol or drug policy. In order to encourage reporting of sexual misconduct, students who report an incident of sexual misconduct, or who serve as witnesses to an incident of sexual misconduct, will not face disciplinary sanctions for their own personal consumption of drugs or alcohol related to the incident as long as any such violations did not place the health or safety of any other person at risk.

5. Advisors

For complaints of sexual misconduct where the complainant or respondent is a student, the complainant and the respondent may be accompanied throughout the investigation and appeal process by an advisor of their choice. Advisors should be from the University community, unless otherwise approved, and must agree to keep the matter confidential. However, the advisor may not be a witness or possible witness in the case, a person involved in the University’s disciplinary process, or a complainant or a respondent in the case. The purpose of the advisor is to provide advice to the student in a manner that is not disruptive to the proceedings. The advisor may accompany the party to any meeting or hearing held pursuant to this Policy. The advisor may not provide verbal, written, or other input during the investigation or appeal process other than to the student being advised; the advisor may not speak on the party’s behalf or otherwise participate or address or question the investigator, Resolution Officer, or other parties or witnesses.

6. Informal Resolution

If the complainant and respondent agree, certain cases may be resolved informally, including through mediation in appropriate cases. Cases involving allegations of sexual assault are not suitable for mediation. The Title IX Coordinator may also determine that informal resolution is not appropriate based on the facts and circumstances of the particular case. All informal resolutions will be conducted or overseen by the Title IX Coordinator or designee. Under no circumstances will a complainant be required to resolve a matter directly with the respondent.

If both parties are satisfied with a proposed informal resolution, and the Title IX Coordinator considers the resolution to satisfy University of St. Augustine’s obligations to provide a safe and non-discriminatory environment, the resolution will be implemented and the informal resolution process will be concluded. If informal resolution does not resolve the matter, the resolution process will proceed to formal investigation. At any point in the process, either the complainant or the respondent may elect to end the informal process in favor of proceeding with a formal investigation.

7. Investigations

If informal resolution is inappropriate, unsuccessful, or not desired by the complainant and the respondent, a formal investigation will be conducted. The investigation of a report of sexual misconduct will begin promptly. Notice will be provided simultaneously to the complainant and the respondent in writing that a complaint has been received by University of St. Augustine and will be investigated under this Policy. The notice shall specify any interim measures that have been implemented.

University of St. Augustine shall determine, given the circumstances surrounding the complaint, the proper party to conduct the investigation. The proper party may or may not be the Title IX Coordinator, and shall be the person best able to conduct an impartial and fair review of the complaint. The investigation will normally include interviewing the complainant(s), respondent(s), witnesses, and other relevant parties and will include a review of any relevant documents and other information. It may include reviewing law enforcement investigation documents (if applicable) and reviewing student and personnel files. Both the complainant and the respondent may provide the investigator(s) with the names of witnesses, documents, and other information. The investigator(s) will exercise their discretion in deciding which individuals identified as witnesses during the investigation should be interviewed and which documents or other information should be reviewed. The interviews, meetings, and other proceedings are not recorded by University of St. Augustine and may not be recorded by others. The complainant and the respondent are afforded equal procedural rights during the investigation. No expert witnesses shall be permitted.

The complainant’s prior sexual relationships or conduct are neither relevant nor admissible during the investigation and will not be considered, other than the prior sexual relationship or conduct with the respondent if the respondent alleges consent. The fact that a complainant may currently have or had in the past a dating or sexual relationship with the respondent that was consensual is not sufficient by itself to constitute consent and does not preclude a determination that sexual misconduct occurred.

At any time prior to or during an investigation, the respondent may accept responsibility for some or all of the alleged violations. The matter will then proceed to the sanctioning phase and any appeal of the sanctioning decision.

8. Preparation of Investigation Report

Upon completion of the investigation, the investigator(s) will prepare a report summarizing the interviews conducted and the evidence reviewed. The report will include the investigator’s finding of fact, an assessment of the credibility of the parties and witnesses when appropriate, and a recommended determination as to whether a violation of this Policy has occurred. In reaching this conclusion, the investigator shall use the preponderance of evidence standard.

9. Resolution Procedures
   1. Cases involving allegations of employee violations

If the Respondent is a non-student employee, the Title IX Coordinator or designee will report his or her findings to University Human Resources and Leadership. If Leadership determines, based on the contents of the report, that no violation of University Policy has occurred, the incident will be closed.

If Leadership determines, based on the contents of the report that a violation of University Policy has or may have occurred, University Leadership will determine an appropriate resolution including remedial and/or disciplinary action up to and including termination of the employee. University Leadership will determine if a hearing is appropriate prior to the determination of the sanctions based on the particular facts presented, including but not limited to the identity of the complainant (student or employee), the nature and/or severity of the offense, and the evidence presented by the investigative report. Resolution, sanctions and appeals will be governed by the procedures in University’s personnel policies or Faculty Handbook, if applicable, in accordance with the requirements of Title IX.

2. Cases involving allegations of student violations

Sexual misconduct complaints involving student respondents will be governed by the following process. Upon the completion of the investigation, the Title IX Coordinator shall present the investigative report to University leadership which may include, as appropriate, the Executive Director of Student Services, the Chief Academic Officer, or the Student Life Manager. The individual or individuals charged with making a determination as to the resolution of the complaint, and sanction, and any remedies for the complainant shall be referred to herein as the “Resolution Officer,” although more than one individual may be charged with resolving the complaint. The Resolution Officer shall then determine the appropriate resolution to the complaint, considering factors including but not limited to the identity of the complainant (student or employee), the nature and/or severity of the offense, and the evidence presented by the investigative report. The Resolution Officer shall determine whether any hearing is appropriate prior to imposition of any sanction. Generally, a hearing will be provided if the probable sanction to be imposed is suspension or expulsion if the respondent is a student, or termination of employment if the respondent is an employee.

The Resolution Officer shall provide written notice to both the complainant and the respondent of the process to be used to resolve the complaint. If no hearing is to be held, both complainant and respondent may make a written submission to the Resolution Officer if they choose. If a hearing is held, the proceedings shall be closed. The complainant and respondent and their respective advisors may be present for all or any portion of the hearing. Either the complainant or respondent may request, or be asked, to hear or view the proceedings via audio or video transmission from a separate room. Any witnesses may only be present in the hearing room when being questioned by the Resolution Officer.

Neither party shall be permitted to ask questions at the hearing, although either party may submit to the Resolution Officer requested questions for the other party or witnesses. It shall be in the discretion of the Resolution Officer whether or not to ask the submitted questions, in whole or in part.

The Resolution Officer shall provide both parties with written notice of its findings and the reasons for such findings. The Resolution Officer shall use the preponderance of evidence standard in making his or her findings. If a violation of this Policy is found, the notice shall provide the sanctions to the respondent and to the complainant, as appropriate under Title IX.

The notice shall set forth either party’s right to appeal, the identity of the Appeal Officer, and the process and time limit for such an appeal.

In addition to discipline against the respondent, resolutions may include remedies for the complainant, which may include steps such as reassignment of a course section or residency, counseling services, medical services, academic support services, or changes to the school’s overall services or policies, including altering withdrawal penalties within courses. Any remedies offered would be separate from, and in addition to, any interim measure that may have been provided prior to the conclusion of any investigation. Resolutions may also include remedies for the broader University population, such as training or changes to policies or services.

10. Appeals

Appeals for sexual misconduct complaints involving non-student employee respondents will be governed by the procedures in University personnel policies or Faculty Handbook, as applicable. If any right of appeal is granted through those policies, both the complainant and the respondent shall have equal rights of appeal.

In cases involving student respondents, both parties have the right to appeal the Resolution Officer’s finding of responsibility and/or imposition of sanctions. Any appeal must be filed in writing within five (5) days from the notice of resolution. The University will determine the appropriate individual in University leadership to hear any appeal (“Appeal Officer”), depending on the circumstances of the case, including the identity of the respondent. There is a presumption that the decision, and any sanction or discipline, was made properly, and the Appeal Officer may not substitute his or her judgment for that of the Resolution Officer. The sole grounds for appeal are: (1) a procedural error that substantially impacted the determination or sanction; (2) new information that was not available at the time of the investigation or hearing and that could reasonably have had had a substantial impact on the determination or sanction; and (3) excessiveness or insufficiency of the sanction. The sanction may be increased only if the complainant appeals on the ground that the sanction was insufficient, and may only be decreased if the respondent appeals on the ground that the sanction was excessive.

The Appeal Officer shall give both parties timely notice of the receipt of an appeal. Both parties shall be provided the opportunity to make a written submission to the Appeal Officer. The Appeal Officer shall be limited to the record below, including any information that was part of the investigation or the resolution hearing. The Appeal Officer shall not conduct another hearing but may conduct interviews with the complainant, respondent, or witnesses in his or her discretion. The party appealing shall have the burden of proof in any appeal. The Appeal Officer shall use the preponderance of evidence standard in the determination of any appeal.

The Appeal Officer shall give written notice to both parties of the outcome of the appeal and the reasons for his or her decision. The decision of the Appeal Officer is final.

Retaliation: Title IX includes protections against retaliation. The University of St. Augustine will take immediate and appropriate steps to investigate or otherwise determine if retaliation due to the reporting of sexual misconduct or discrimination occurs.

Training: All individuals with responsibilities under this Policy shall have appropriate training in this Policy and in the requirements of Title IX and related laws. Training shall include training relating to sexual misconduct, including sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking as defined in this Policy.

Time Frames for Process: While each situation is different and there can be no way to determine how long an investigation will take, the Title IX Coordinator shall use her best efforts to reach resolution within 60 days from the time the complaint is reported to notice of resolution, exclusive of any appeals.

Sources of Counseling, Advocacy, and Support: Victims of Sexual Misconduct can receive assistance immediately by calling the local police department (911, if emergency) and local counseling resources listed by campus below. University of St. Augustine employees may contact the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) by contacting Business Health Services (BHS) at 800-765-3277 or online: at www.bhsonline.com (user name: Laureate). EAP is free, “Confidential Resources” at University of St. Augustine which means that all conversations will remain confidential and will not initiate any type of investigation into the incident. Sexual assault reports must be made by contacting the University’s Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinators, who are the appropriate University Officials for receiving reports of sexual assault. University of St. Augustine students can contact the following off-campus resources for counseling services: The National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY). For students at the University of St. Augustine Florida Campuses: The Betty Griffin House 24-hour crisis hotlines, Telephone: (904) 824-1555. For students at the University St. Augustine California Campus: North County Family Violence Center Prevention Services, 330 Rancheros Dr. San Marcos, CA, Telephone: (760) 798-2835. For students at the University of St. Augustine Texas Campus: Victim Services Resources: 24-hour crisis hotlines, Telephone: 512-472-4357.

Status Change—Withdrawal or Leave of Absence (LOA)

Students who find it necessary to withdraw from the program or take an LOA must notify the Advisor in writing and complete the required documentation. Withdrawal or Leave of Absence forms are available on the myUSA portal Student Services tab under Forms.

Student Loans

The University is concerned about the financial well-being of its students. The cost of attendance varies per program and possible accumulation of student loan debt could exceed $150,000 to complete the program. Program cost details and financial counseling is available through the Financial Aid department at: Cost of Attendance. The university strongly recommends student counseling prior to applying for loans. The purpose of this counseling is to speak about financial management principles and how best to utilize loan options for students.

Termination of Enrollment (Texas)

The school shall terminate the enrollment of a student who accumulates the lesser of the following amounts of absences:

• More than 10 consecutive school days
• More than 20% of the total course-time hours in a program with course time of more than 200 hours
• More than 25% of the total course-time hours in a program or individual class with course time of 41 to 200 hours
• More than 25% of the total course-time hours for seminars, individual classes, or programs with course time of 40 hours or less
• Any number of days if the student fails to return as scheduled from an approved leave of absence

Textbooks

Textbooks are the responsibility of the learner. Not all courses require textbooks (refer to the course syllabus). To access book lists, students should sign into myUSA, click on the Campus tab, then on the appropriate campus. Student Services provides a booklist to incoming, first-term First Professional students prior to the start of classes.

Transcripts

To ensure confidentiality of student records, the University issues official transcripts of academic information only by written or electronic signature by the student or graduate using TranscriptsPlus. Students will pay a $3.00 convenience fee for each request submitted and an additional $2.25 fee for each paper transcript requested. For electronic transcript delivery only, the $3.00 convenience fee is charged. Transcripts as well as grade reports will not be issued for any student with an outstanding obligation to the University, financial or otherwise. For more information on ordering transcripts please visit the myUSA portal My Info tab.

Transferability of Course Credit

The transferability of credits students earn at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is at the complete discretion of an institution to which the student may seek to transfer. Acceptance of the degree earned at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is also at the complete discretion of the institution to which the student may seek to transfer. If the degree earned at this institution is not accepted at the institution to which the student seeks to transfer, the student may be required to repeat some or all of his or her coursework at that institution. For this reason, the student should make certain that his or her attendance at this institution will meet his or her educational goals. This may include contacting an institution to which the student may seek transfer after attending the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences to determine if the degree will transfer. The University actively pursues a policy of requesting other graduate programs to accept our credits for transfer. However, the University has not entered into an articulation or transfer agreement with any other college or university.

Tuition

Students may pay tuition and fees for each trimester either by personal check, cash, or major credit card (VISA and/or MasterCard). Checks can either be mailed to the attention of the student’s campus Bursar or brought in to the Bursar’s Office in person. For credit card payments, students should always attempt online payment first before contacting the Bursar. Log into the student portal at myUSA, My Info tab. Select Student Accounting, then “My Account Balances,” then “Make a Payment.” Only if the online payment attempt does not work should the student contact the Business Office Bursar. Questions regarding the student’s account, where to remit payment, Higher One cards, etc., should be directed to the student’s campus Business Office Bursar.

San Marcos CA Campus: Checks can be made payable to University of St. Augustine and sent to 700 Windy Point Dr, San Marcos CA 92069, Attn: Kristin Hitchcock, Business Office Bursar. The San Marcos CA bursar can be reached at 760-591-3012, ext. 2456, or khitchcock@usa.edu.

Saint Augustine FL Campus: Checks can be made payable to University of St. Augustine and sent to 1 University Blvd, St. Augustine FL 32086, Attn: Susan Jones, Business Office Bursar. The St. Augustine FL bursar can be reached at 904-826-0084, ext. 1240, or sjones@usa.edu.

Miami FL Campus: Checks can be made payable to University of St. Augustine and sent to 1 University Blvd, St. Augustine FL 32086, Attn: Susan Jones, Business Office Bursar. The Miami FL bursar can be reached at 904-826-0084, ext. 1240, or sjones@usa.edu.

Austin TX Campus: Check can be made payable to University of St. Augustine and sent to 5401 La Crosse Ave, Austin TX 78739, Attn: Candice Salazar, Business Office Bursar. The Austin TX bursar can be reached at 512-394-9766, ext. 3108, or csalazar@usa.edu.

Loan disbursements for existing loan programs are also accepted. The use of credit cards to pay for tuition while receiving loans will only be accepted when a current loan disbursement does not pay the account in full. All tuition is payable in full on the registration date established for the applicable trimester. If the student has a loan coming that won’t pay what is owed to the school in full, then subtract the amount of the loan from the total balance, and pay that self-pay portion by the registration date established for the applicable trimester. If the student has loan(s) pending that will pay the balance in full, then students do not have to pay anything themselves.

Late accounts can be assessed a 10% late fee. When the account becomes past due the student will be “blocked.” If the account is blocked, students are unable to register for the next term, unable to request transcripts, and unable to graduate. Removal from classes can also occur. Reminder: if there are loans pending that will pay the tuition in full, the account won’t be considered past due or receive a block. If students have a loan pending that will partially pay the account, the student is responsible for paying the self-pay portion by the registration date established for the applicable trimester or risk receiving a late fee and/or block.

One more important item for new students—if the student hasn’t already, he or she should be receiving by U.S. mail enrollment information for Higher One. Higher One processes USAHS’s student refunds. It will arrive in a bright green envelope. As soon as the information is received students should enroll and choose the method for future refunds. Students may use a Higher One account or receive direct deposit to his or her own bank. Even if the student does not anticipate a refund, he or she should enroll to direct a refund from a dropped course.

All personal checks accepted in payment of tuition may be processed twice, once upon receipt, and, if not cleared, once more. If such check is not approved for payment by the bank because of insufficient funds or other circumstances that do not allow clearance, it will be returned to the issuer along with a $30.00 service charge imposed by the University to cover handling and service fees. This service charge will be imposed each time the check is not approved for payment by the bank. There are no exceptions to this policy. Any subsequent tuition payments made by the student for the trimester/term in question must be made in the form of a certified check or bank money order before acceptance by the University.

Special Tuition Payment for Students Performing Clinical Internships

A special tuition payment policy applies for those students who will be performing clinical internships for the immediately upcoming trimester. These students are required to remit tuition and fee payments no later than a period of 2 weeks prior to the beginning date of their clinical internship. In the case of those students receiving loans, a letter from the servicing agency indicating actual disbursement date is required on or before a period of 3 weeks prior to the beginning date of their clinical internship. (Note: The tuition payment date for those students who will be pursuing clinical internships in any given trimester will be provided in a separate memorandum to students as well as listed on the Academic Calendar). Students may direct questions regarding payment of tuition to the Bursar’s Office.

Post Professional Student

Students may pay tuition for each trimester/term either by personal check or major credit card. All tuition is payable in full by the registration date established for the applicable trimester/term. Students will not be allowed to begin a course without paying for it in full, even though a loan might be disbursing at some future point. Any loan disbursements received will then be refunded to the student.

Tuition Refund Policy for First Professional Programs

Cancellation and Tuition Refund Policy

University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences institutional refund policy has been established in accordance with current state and federal regulations and applicable accrediting standards. A refund to the student or fund source may result from the application of the University’s institutional refund policy.

Notice of Cancellation

Students must notify the University in writing of cancellation. All monies paid by an applicant other than books, supplies, materials, and kits that are not returnable from use are refunded if cancellation occurs within 1 week (7 days) after signing the University’s Enrollment Agreement and making an initial payment. If cancellation occurs after 1 week (7 days) from the signing of the University’s Enrollment Agreement, all application and registration fees in excess of $100 are refunded.

$500 Deposit Refund Policy First Professional Programs

Refund of Tuition Deposit for Withdrawal Within the First Seven Days:  If notification of withdrawal from the University is submitted within seven days of submission of the tuition deposit, a full refund of the tuition deposit will be returned to the student.

Refund of Tuition Deposit for Withdrawal After the First Seven Days But Before the Start of the Trimester:  If notification of withdrawal from the University is submitted after seven days of submission of the tuition deposit up to the start of the trimester courses, a partial refund of $400 (the University retains $100 as an admissions fee) will be returned to the student.

Tuition Refund Policy First Professional Programs

The University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences has an established add/drop period that is the first week (7 days) of each semester. All tuition and fees will be refunded to students or to student loans who withdraw from a program or a course within the add/drop period.

If a student withdraws from the program or a course after the add/drop period but prior to completion, the student may be eligible for a tuition refund in accordance with the following policy:

Withdrawing from a Program - Refund of Tuition after the Start of Trimester Courses: For students who withdraw from ALL classes during days 1-7 of the trimester (Add/Drop period), 100% of tuition/fees will be refunded to the student and/or to the loan. For students who withdraw from ALL classes after day 7 but before 60% of the term has elapsed, USAHS will calculate the refund using a percentage formula and return the refund to the student and/or to the loan. If more than 60% of the term has elapsed, there will be no refund.

Withdrawing from a Course - Students withdrawing from 1 or more course(s), but not the program, will have their refund calculated under the same percentage formula as those withdrawing from a program.

Step 1: Determine the percentage of the enrollment period the student attended before withdrawing (days attended divided by total days in the period).If over 60%, then no refund is due.

Step 2: Determine the amount of tuition earned by school by multiplying the total tuition/fee charged by the percentage of time enrolled.

Step 3: Compare the amount of tuition earned by school to the amount received by the school. If more funds were received by the school than tuition earned by school, determine the amount of funds that must be returned by subtracting the tuition earned by school amount from the amount received by the school.

Step 4: Distribute this calculated amount as a refund to the student or to student loan.

Refunds are made within 30 days of the date the University determines that the student has withdrawn.

For students who receive federal financial aid who withdraw (including transfers and leaves of absence) from ALL classes on or before 60% of the term has elapsed, a portion of your tuition will be returned to your lender. Please see the University’s R2T4 policy for further information.

Tuition Refund Policy for First Professional Programs for Iowa Residents

Cancellation and Tuition Refund Policy First Professional Programs

University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences’ institutional refund policy has been established in accordance with current state and federal regulations and applicable accrediting standards. A refund to the student or fund source may result from the application of the University’s Institutional Refund Policy.

Notice of Cancellation First Professional Programs

Students must notify the University in writing of cancellation. All monies paid by an applicant other than books, supplies, materials and kits which are not returnable from use are refunded if cancellation occurs after signing the University’s Enrollment Agreement and making an initial payment.  All monies Iowa residents pre-pay to the University for tuition including the $500 tuition deposit are fully refunded to Iowa residents if the student never begins attendance in the term or course for which the student was charged.

Tuition Refund Policy First Professional Programs

The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences has an established add/drop period that is the first week (seven days) of each semester. All tuition and fees will be refunded to students or to the source of their student loans, if students withdraw from a program or a course within the add/drop period.

If a student withdraws from the program or a course after the add/drop period but prior to completion, the student may be eligible for a tuition refund in accordance with the following policy:

Withdrawing from a Program-Refund of Tuition after the Start of Trimester Courses:  For students who withdraw from ALL classes during day 1 – 7 of the trimester (Add/Drop period), 100% of tuition/fees will be refunded to student and/or to their loan.  After day 7 for students who withdraw from ALL classes but before 60% of the term has elapsed, USAHS will calculate the refund using a percentage formula and return the refund to the student and/or to the student loan.  If more than 60% of the term has elapsed, there will be no refund.

Withdrawing from a Course-Students withdrawing from 1 or more course(s), but not the program, will have their refund calculated under the same percentage formula as those withdrawing from a program.

Step 1: Determine the percentage of the enrollment period (calendar days) the student  failed to complete as the date of withdrawal (incomplete days divided by total days in the period).  If over 60%, then no refund is due.

Step 2: Determine the amount of tuition charges to be refunded by multiplying the total tuition/fee charged by the percentage of time (calendar days) the student failed to complete.

Step 3: Distribute this calculated amount as a refund to the student or to student loan.  

For Iowa resident distance education students who withdrawal due to physical incapacity and have provided official documentation that physical incapacity is the reason he or she is not able to complete the course, the student will be refunded by the amount of tuition earned by school by multiplying the total tuition/fee charged by the percentage of time (calendar days) the student failed to complete in the period for which he/she was charged.

Refunds are made within 30 days of the date the University determines that the student has withdrawn.

For students who receive federal financial aid who withdraw (including transfers and leaves of absence) from ALL classes on or before 60% of the term has elapsed, a portion of your tuition will be returned to your lender.  Please see the University’s R2T4 policy for further information.  

Tuition Refund Policy for Transitional and Post-Professional Programs

Student’s Right to Cancel

Students may withdraw from a degree program at any time. Contact the director of the degree program to request withdrawal from the program. To withdraw from an individual seminar, contact the Continuing Education Office by phone at 904-826-0084, ext. 1400.

Cancellation and Tuition Refund Policy for Post-Professional Programs

University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences institutional refund policy has been established in accordance with current state and federal regulations and applicable accrediting standards. A refund to the student or fund source may result from the application of the University’s institutional refund policy.

Notice of Cancellation for Post-Professional Programs

Students must notify the University in writing of cancellation. All monies paid by an applicant other than books, supplies, materials, and kits that are not returnable from use are refunded if cancellation occurs within 1 week (7 days) after signing the University’s Enrollment Agreement and making an initial payment. 

Tuition Refund Policy

The University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences has an established add/drop period that is the first week (7 days) of each semester. All tuition, excluding the application fee, will be refunded to students who withdraw within the add/drop period.

If a student withdraws from the program or a course after the 7 day add/drop period but prior to completion, the student may be eligible for a tuition refund in accordance with the following policy:

Refund of Tuition After the Start of Trimester Courses: For self-pay students who withdraw (including transfers and leaves of absence) from ALL classes on or before 60% of the term has elapsed, USAHS will calculate the refund using a percentage formula and return the refund to the student. Students dropping form coursework (not the program) will be calculated under the same percentage formula. If more than 60% of the term has elapsed, there will be no refund.

             Step 1: Determine the percentage of the enrollment period the student attended before withdrawing (days attended divided by total days in the period).

             Step 2: Determine the amount of tuition earned by school by multiplying the total tuition/fee charged by the percentage of time enrolled.

             Step 3: Compare the amount of tuition earned by school to the amount received by the school. If more funds were received by the school than tuition earned by school, determine the amount of funds that must be                        returned by subtracting the tuition earned by school amount from the amount received by the school.

             Step 4: Distribute this calculated amount as a refund to the student.

Refunds are made within 30 days of the date the University determines that the student has withdrawn.

For students who receive federal financial aid who withdraw (including transfers and leaves of absence) from ALL classes on or before 60% of the term has elapsed, a portion of the tuition will be returned to the student’s lender. Please see the University’s R2T4 policy for further information.

Tuition Refund Policy for Transitional and Post Professional Programs for Iowa Residents

Student’s Right to Cancel Post-Professional Programs

Students may withdraw from a degree program at any time. Contact the director of the degree program to request withdrawal from the program. To withdraw from an individual seminar contact the Continuing Education Office by phone at 904-826-0084, ext. 1400.

Cancellation and Tuition Refund Policy for Post-Professional Programs

University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences institutional refund policy has been established in accordance with current state and federal regulations and applicable accrediting standards. A refund to the student or fund source may result from the application of the University’s Institutional Refund Policy.

Notice of Cancellation for Post-Professional Programs

Students must notify the University in writing of cancellation. All monies paid by an applicant other than books, supplies, materials and kits which are not returnable from use are refunded if cancellation occurs within one week (seven-days) after signing the University’s Enrollment Agreement and making an initial payment. All monies Iowa residents pre-pay to the University for tuition are fully refunded to Iowa residents if the student never begins attendance in the term or course for which the student was charged.

Tuition Refund Policy for Post-Professional Programs

The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences has an established add/drop period that is the first week (seven days) of each semester. All tuition and fees will be refunded to student who withdraw within the add/drop period.

If a student withdraws from the program or a course after the 7 day add/drop period but prior to completion, the student may be eligible for a tuition refund in accordance with the following policy:

 Refund of Tuition Charges after the Start of Trimester Courses:  For students who withdraw (including transfers and leaves of absence) from ALL classes on or before 60% of the term has elapsed, USAHS will calculate the refund using a percentage formula and reduce the student’s tuition charges accordingly.  Students dropping from coursework (not the program) will be calculated under the same percentage formula.  If more than 60% of the term has elapsed, there will be no refund.

Step 1: Determine the percentage of the enrollment period (calendar days) the student  failed to complete as the date of withdrawal (incomplete days divided by total days in the period).  If over 60%, then no refund is due.

Step 2: Determine the amount of tuition charges to be refunded by multiplying the total tuition/fee charged by the percentage of time (calendar days) the student failed to complete.

Step 3: Distribute this calculated amount as a refund to the student.

For Iowa resident distance education students who withdrawal due to physical incapacity and have provided official documentation that physical incapacity is the reason he or she is not able to complete the course, the student will be refund by the amount of tuition earned by school by multiplying the total tuition/fee charged by the percentage of time (calendar days) the student failed to complete in the period for which he/she was charged.

Refunds are made within 30 days of the date the University determines that the student has withdrawn.

For students who receive federal financial aid who withdraw (including transfers and leaves of absence) from ALL classes on or before 60% of the term has elapsed, a portion of your tuition will be returned to your lender.  Please see the University’s R2T4 policy for further information.  

Continuing Education Seminar Fee Refund Policy

Continuing Education tuition fee refunds will be determined in accordance with the policy above for Iowa resident online students.

In the event of employer paid registrations, the employer has the right to cancel the registration. The therapist will be contacted and may be given the option to remain registered for the seminar and become the responsible party for the fee.

For Iowa National Guard or Reserve Forces Only

The following additional considerations are made for a student who is a member or the spouse of a member if the member has a dependent child, of the Iowa National Guard or reserve forces of the United States and who is ordered to National Guard duty or federal active duty:

• Withdraw from the student’s entire registration for that term and receive a full refund of tuition and mandatory fees for that term
• The student may make arrangements with the instructor(s) for course grades, or for incompletes to be completed by the student at a later time, which will keep the student’s registration and all tuition and fees intact.
• The student may make arrangements with only some instructors for grades, or for incompletes to be completed by the student at a later time, which will keep the student’s registration, tuition and fees intact for only those courses in which the student makes arrangements.  Any course for which arrangements cannot be made for grades or incompletes will be considered withdrawn and the tuition and mandatory fees for the course refunded.

A “dependent child” is defined as someone who was claimed by a qualified military person on the qualified military person’s internal revenue service tax filing for the previous tax year. Students may be required to submit additional documentation, as requested by the university, to support the military leave of absence considerations listed above.

Tuition Refund Policy for Maryland Residents (All programs)

For students residing in Maryland, USAHS complies with the state of Maryland’s refund policy. This policy will supersede USAHS’s refund policy, unless USAHS’s policy is more beneficial for the Maryland student. The minimum refund that USAHS shall pay to a Maryland student who withdraws or is terminated after completing only a portion of a course, program, or term with the applicable billing period is as follows:

Continuing Education Seminar Fee Refund Policy

A $100 non-refundable deposit must accompany the registration form. The balance of the fee is due 30 days prior to the starting date of the seminar; unpaid balances may be subject to forfeited registration. The balance may be transferred or refunded with a two-week notice prior to the start date of the seminar. Cancellation up to three working days prior to the start of the seminar will result in 50% of the balance being refunded. With three working days’ notice, no portion of the seminar fee will be refunded; however, the fee may be transferred to another seminar of the student’s choosing or placed in a “funds on hold” account. Transfer of funds is limited to two seminars. After the seminar begins, no refunds are issued or transfer of funds permitted. If a student misses any portion of a seminar, a certificate of completion will not be issued until such portion is made up. A student can attend a subsequently scheduled seminar at no cost to make up the time and then receive his or her certificate upon successful completion. For online continuing education unit (CEU) seminars please refer to the Academic Credit Refund policy.

In the event of employer paid registrations, the employer has the right to cancel the registration under the above policy. The therapist will be contacted and may be given the option to remain registered for the seminar and become the responsible party for the fee.

Wellness Centers (St. Augustine, San Marcos, Austin)

Mission Statement

The mission of the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences Wellness Center is to provide an environment that promotes and facilitates a healthy and productive lifestyle in our students, faculty, staff, and ultimately our clients and local community. This will be achieved by (a) development of programs that will allow the University philosophy on health and wellness to become a reality and (b) providing a state of the art wellness facility that will include wellness-related testing/screening and quality instruction in the various domains of wellness.

Students must complete a liability waiver prior to utilizing the Wellness Center and must complete a mandatory orientation prior to utilizing the Obstacle Course on the St. Augustine Campus.

For more information, including access and policies, go to myUSA, Student Services tab and then Wellness Center.