Mar 28, 2024  
2017-2018 SPRING Student Handbook NOT CURRENT 
    
2017-2018 SPRING Student Handbook NOT CURRENT [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

First Professional Programs Policies and Procedures



Contact Information

Regular meetings will be scheduled with student body representatives, but if you have any questions regarding our Student Handbook, Catalog, or any other activities, please do not hesitate to email, call, or make an appointment to stop by our offices.

St. Augustine, Florida Campus
Anne Hull, EdD, OT/L
Jodi Liphart, PT, DHSc, NCS
Chair, Institute of Occupational Therapy Chair, Institute of Physical Therapy
ahull@usa.edu ext. 1258 jliphart@usa.edu  ext. 1230
   
Anne Hull, EdD, OT/L Laura Broussard
Program Director, OT Programs Administrative Assistant, MOT Program
ahull@usa.edu  ext. 1258 lbroussard@usa.edu ext. 1224
  Sue Nordlund
  Administrative Assistant, OT Program
  snordlund@usa.edu  ext. 1253
   
Jackie Crossen-Sills, PT, PhD Cindy Kingry
Interim Program Director, DPT Program Sr. Administrative Assistant, DPT Program
jcrossensills@usa.edu ext. 1256 ckingry@usa.edu ext. 1234
   
Debra Gray, PT, DHSc, DPT, MEd Joanna Carter
Flex DPT Program Manager Administrative Assistant, Flex DPT Program
dgray@usa.edu ext. 1262 jcarter@usa.edu ext. 1248

 

San Marcos, California Campus
Anne Hull, EdD, OT/L Jodi Liphart, PT, DHSc, NCS
Chair, Institute of Occupational Therapy Chair, Institute of Physical Therapy
ahull@usa.edu ext. 1258 jliphart@usa.edu  ext. 1230
   
Erin Schwier, OTD, OTR/L Jess Mowry
Program Director, OT Programs Administrative Assistant, OT Program
Co-Director, Dual Degree Option Program jmowrey@usa.edu ext. 2403
eschwier@usa.edu Melyssa Dube
  Administrative Assistant, MOT Program
  mdube@usa.edu  ext. 2454
   
Cherie Peters-Brinkerhoff, PT, EdD, MHA Andi Saldana                                                  
Director, DPT Program Administrative Assistant, DPT Program
cpeters-brinkerhoff@usa.edu ext. 2414 asaldana@usa.edu ext. 2487
   
Christine Childers, PT, MS Alexander Castaneda
Assistant Director, Flex DPT Program  Administrative Assistant, Flex DPT Program
cchilders@usa.edu ext. 2439 acastaneda@usa.edu ext. 2438

 

Austin, Texas Campus
Anne Hull, EdD, OT/L Jodi Liphart, PT, DHSc, NCS
Chair, Institute of Occupational Therapy Chair, Institute of Physical Therapy
ahull@usa.edu ext. 1258 jliphart@usa.edu  ext. 1230
   
Mary Zadnik, ScD, MEd, OTR/L Kelly Lusk
Interim Program Director, OT Programs Administrative Assistant, OT Programs
mzadnik@usa.edu  ext. 3136 klusk@usa.edu ext. 3152
   
Manuel (Tony) Domenech, PT, DPT, EdD Abby Gomez
Program Director, DPT Program Administrative Assistant, DPT Program
tdomenech@usa.edu ext. 3147 agomez@usa.edu ext. 3148
   
Thomas Werner, PT, MA, PhD Edie Holmes
Flex DPT Program Administrator Administrative Assistant, Flex DPT Program
twerner@usa.edu ext. 3140 eholmes@usa.edu ext. 3151

 

Miami, Florida Campus
Anne Hull, EdD, OT/L Jodi Liphart, PT, DHSc, NCS
Chair, Institute of Occupational Therapy Chair, Institute of Physical Therapy
ahull@usa.edu ext. 1258 jliphart@usa.edu  ext. 1230
   
Jose Rafols, OTD, MHSA, OTR/L, CEAS  
Program Director, MOT Program  
jrafols@usa.edu  ext. 4111  
   
Jackie Crossen-Sills, PT, PhD  
Interim Program Director, DPT Program  
jcrossensills@usa.edu ext. 1256  

Academic Evaluation and Right of Appeal

Students sign an acknowledgement of the appeals procedure as part of the orientation process. 

The responsibility for academic evaluation will rest with the instructor. For minor appeal issues, which are decisions that would not result in probation or dismissal, the student appeals to the faculty member involved in the particular issue. If the student is not satisfied with the faculty member’s resolution of the issue, the student has the right to appeal the issue in writing to the Program Director within 3 business days of the instructor’s decision. The Program Director then has 5 business days to research the issue and render a decision.

If the student is not satisfied with the Program Director’s response, the student can appeal the issue to the President in writing within 5 business days after the Program Director’s response. After hearing the issue, the President or designee has 2 business days to either render a verdict on the issue or redirect the issue at that point to the Academic Appeals Committee (AAC).

Any student who has been dismissed must formally appeal this decision in writing to the Registrar with a copy to the respective Program Director within 2 business days from receipt of the notification. If the student does not meet the stated deadline, the appeal may not be considered. In extenuating circumstances, the student may request an extension from his or her respective Program Director or Program Director designee (i.e., Registrar); however, this request must be made within the above stated deadline.

Appeal letters should address

  • the rationale behind the appeal and why he or she believes the appeal is warranted, and
  • future circumstances that will permit the student to rectify previous poor academic performance.

The Program Director will forward the student’s appeal to the AAC within2 business days. After discussion between the AAC and the Program Director, a decision is rendered. The Program Director will convey the AAC’s decision to the student.

The AAC will meet six scheduled times per calendar year (see Academic Calendar). These meetings will convene 2 days prior to the first day of classes of each trimester and at midterm of each trimester. Procedures for the meetings are as follows:

Prior to Trimester Meetings

The AAC will convene within 2 days prior to the first day of classes of the next trimester or at the earliest convenience for both the student and the committee members. The student must appear personally before the AAC at its convenience. A written decision will be given to the Program Director within 2 business days of adjourning the meeting with the student.

Academic Progression During the Appeal Process

The First Professional student will be allowed to attend scheduled classes throughout the entire appeal process.

In the best interest of the student and clinical site, a student will not be allowed to progress to a clinical education experience when appealing a University dismissal. If the appeal process reverses the dismissal from the University, the student will be placed on a re-admittance contract and be required to remediate to meet all course requirements before entering a clinical education experience.

Midterm Meetings

The AAC will convene on or about midterm of each trimester or at the earliest convenient time for both the committee and the student. The student must appear personally before the AAC. The AAC will give a written decision to the Program Director within 2 business days of adjourning the meeting with the student.

In the event of extenuating circumstances, if a student is unable to meet at the University’s designated AAC meeting times, the student may request an alternate meeting time. This request must be submitted to the chair of the AAC in writing with detailed rationale supporting the need for an alternate time.

Students geographically distant from the University campus may be allowed to appear before the AAC meeting via phone conference solely at the discretion of the AAC.

Should the student not agree to the decision of the Program Director, the student has the right of an appeal to the President or appointed designee. The appeal must be submitted, in writing, within 5 business days to the President. Upon request, the President or designee will review pertinent records, including a review of the process to ensure that it was correctly followed, and may meet with the AAC and the student. The President or designee will follow the process as established in this Handbook. If the final decision by the President results in dismissal, the student will no longer be permitted to remain in any course.

Dismissal policies will be implemented as fairly and equitably as possible considering all extenuating circumstances.

Once a final appeal decision on academic dismissal has been rendered, the student does not have access to the appeal process for this same issue again.

Advanced Course Standing by Examination

Based on previous academic coursework earned from another accredited degree granting institution or another program within the University and/or work experiences, a student may be granted advanced standing for a particular course after passing an examination on the contents of the course. The examination may be written or practical or both and there is a cost associated with each exam. A maximum of 25% of the total number of credits for the degree may be granted for advanced standing. The granting of advance standing by examination is independent of the granting of transfer credit.

Approval for advanced course standing is subject to the following provisions:

  • Documentation supporting the reason for requesting advance course standing by examination. Supporting documentation may include transcripts showing applicable courses for credit, course descriptions, syllabi, continuing education courses/seminar descriptions and proof of completion, and work experience.
  • Passing a challenge examination to verify competency in the particular subject matter. A student has only one attempt per course to pass the challenge exam. If the student fails the exam, the student must take the course in its entirety. The passing grade will be the same as the passing grade stated in the syllabus for the course in which advance standing is being requested.

The process for requesting Advanced Course Standing by Examination is as follows:

  • The student obtains a request form for Approval of Advanced Course Standing by Examination found on the myUSA portal, Student Services tab under Forms and submits it to the respective Program Director with appropriate documentation.
  • Requests for approval of Advanced Course Standing by Examination must be submitted at least 2 months before the start of classes for the trimester.
  • In consultation with course instructors, the Program Director will review the request. If approved, the Program Director will notify the Registrar and a test time and date will be set up for each challenge exam. If the Program Director with consultation of the course instructor(s) concludes that the student’s previous coursework and experience are inadequate for passing the challenge exam, they may encourage the student not to seek advanced course standing or to take some type of remediation before taking the challenge exam.
  • The Registrar will notify the student if the challenge exam has been passed and will post the course and its credits to the permanent academic record at that time.

Advisors

Academic Advisors

The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is committed to student success. With this in mind students are connected to an Academic Advisor. An Academic Advisor is available to support students in many ways during the days leading up to the first class and throughout the duration of the academic program. 

Academic Advisors provide concierge support and help students navigate through the University.  They assist students in completing required forms, understanding USAHS policies and procedures, adjusting schedules, and much more. Academic Advisors also have access to resources that can assist students with study strategies, time and stress management techniques, and organizational tips.  

Academic Advisors partner with students to help them achieve their academic and professional goals and will check up on students from time to time just to see how they are progressing.  Academic Advisors are on the front lines of student service and are always willing to answer questions and provide support.    

Faculty Advisors

A Faculty Advisor will be appointed for each student. This advisor will serve in two capacities. The first is to advise the student on academic matters, and the second is to assist in professional development. Should a student wish to change advisors, he or she should meet with the appropriate Program Director.

Awards

Outstanding OT, PT, and Flex Student Awards

Each of the First Professional degree programs recognizes an outstanding student of the respective graduating class. This award is based upon the criteria listed below and is given to the graduating student whose characteristics most support either the OT or PT program mission statement. The outstanding OT student award is chosen by a combined vote of his or her fellow classmates and program faculty. The PT student award is chosen by a vote of the program faculty.

Outstanding Student Awards Criteria

  Professionalism Demonstrates the ability to act as a member of the health care team and to be involved in the advancement of occupational therapy, physical therapy, or orthopaedic assistant.
     
  Clinical Reasoning Applies logic and critical thinking skills for the improvement of a patient’s welfare as well as to enhance the recipient’s own career.
     
  Ethical Standards Demonstrates appropriate principles and values.
     
  Commitment to Continued Professional Growth Possesses a continuing desire to acquire knowledge and advance the occupational therapy, physical therapy, or orthopaedic assistant profession.
     
  Responsibility Is dependable and assumes responsibility for one’s own actions.
     
  Leadership Is willing to be involved in student and/or professional activities.
     
  Initiative Is resourceful and self-directed.
     
  Constructive Skills Maintains a positive attitude and demonstrates creative qualities.

Stanley V. Paris and Catherine E. Patla Award

The Paris and Patla Award is presented in recognition of excellence in spinal and extremity manual therapy in professional physical therapy education to a First Professional PT graduate.

Scholastic Achievement Award

The Scholastic Achievement Award—named for the founding Program Director on each campus—is presented to the First Professional PT and OT graduate who has achieved the highest cumulative grade point average (GPA). Grades from both foundational science courses and professional courses are included in the cumulative grade point computation.

Recognition for the Fellowship in Manual Physical Therapy

The University’s Fellowship in Manual Physical Therapy is credentialed by the American Physical Therapy Association and recognized by the American Academy of Manual Physical Therapists. This postgraduate program includes a minimum of 1 year of clinical mentoring as well as didactic learning.

Campus Location Change

Students who wish to change to another campus location must submit a Campus Location Change Request Form, available on the myUSA portal, Student Services tab under Forms, to their current Program Director by midterm of the trimester prior to the requested change. Such requests will be considered on an individual basis and are contingent on space availability. The student will be notified of the outcome of the location change request via email by the Registrar’s Office. Please note: Program completion dates of students who change campus locations may be extended.

Campus Exchange Program

Students who wish to study at a USAHS campus other than their home campus for one trimester may apply to do so, provided their program is available at another campus and they meet qualifications described below.

At this time Dual students in the DPT program and OTD students are not able to participate.

A student who wishes to exchange must meet the following criteria:

  •  A student must be in good academic standing.
  • A student must not have any misconduct issues in his or her record.
  • A student must receive his or her Program Director’s approval.
  • A DPT student must be willing to exchange in Term 3, 4, 5, or 7 (due to internships, scheduling, graduation, and other factors). Flex DPT students should consult with the Program Manager to discuss options.
  • An OT student must be willing to exchange in Term 3, 4, or 5 (due to fieldwork experiences, scheduling, graduation and other factors). Flex OT students do not currently have this opportunity unless they are requesting a transfer to a campus based program.
  • A student must be willing to guarantee his or her own travel and lodging arrangements (students may want to consider contacting the other campus’s student association leaders to see which students at the other campus may have room occupancies due to internships or other factors).

A student who believes he or she meets the criteria must follow the following process in order to become an exchange student:

  1. Fill out the Campus Exchange Application found on the myUSA portal, Student Services tab under Forms.
  2. Submit the completed application (and application fee) to the student’s home campus Program Director no later than the end of the fourth week of the trimester preceding the trimester the student wishes to exchange.
  3. Await Program Director approval (students should note that just because they meet the criteria, they may not be approved based on classroom seat availability or other factors).

For students who do exchange, the following apply:

  • If a student receives a grade while on exchange that requires repeating a course, the student will be expected to repeat the course at his or her home campus in the following trimester.
  • A temporary advisor on the host campus will be assigned to the exchanging student during the trimester in which the student is exchanging.
  • Academic progression for the student will occur on the host campus on which the student exchanges for the trimester the student is on that campus.
  • Professional misconduct issues will be handled on the campus at which the incident took place.
  • The appeal process will be handled through the student’s home campus appeals committee.
  • Tuition remains at the home campus rate.

Continuing Education

Students will not be excused from campus-based classes or Internship I/Level I Fieldwork to attend Continuing Education classes. Students participating in Level II Fieldwork or Internships II and III may request to participate in continuing education approved by the facility, the Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education or Academic Fieldwork Coordinator, and the Program Director.

Counseling

In partnership with ComPsych (a Student Assistance Program provider), USAHS offers free counseling services and online resources whenever and wherever needed.

24/7 Confidential Support

Students (and members of the same household) may call 844-819-4777 (toll free) and be connected to a free and confidential highly trained master’s or doctoral level clinician via phone. This licensed counselor can help with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship conflict, substance abuse, or any other personal issue students may be experiencing. If needed, the counselor will also be able to refer students to meet with an in-person counselor for up to three complimentary sessions.

Online Resources

Student and household members will also have unlimited access to guidanceresources.com. Students will need to use “USAHS” as the Web ID to create a free account. This website provides information, tools, and support on a wide variety of subjects including wellness, legal, financial, and relationship topics. Students can view articles, podcasts, videos, or slideshows and can “Ask the Expert” to receive personal responses to questions.

Dual Degree Option

Dual-degree-option students who elect not to return to the University to pursue the DPT portion of the program immediately after earning the MOT degree must submit a Program Withdrawal Form to the Registrar’s Office by midterm of the last trimester of the MOT program.

Dual-degree-option students who want to complete the DPT portion of the program through the Flex DPT program must submit a Program Change Request Form to the Registrar’s Office by midterm of the last trimester of the MOT program. This form is located on the myUSA portal, Student Services tab under Forms.

Duplicating (St. Augustine)

Students may request that the Faculty Office Assistant make copies that will be used for student presentations on or off campus. Last minute copying requests for student presentations may not be granted. To assure the material is available on time, copy requests should be submitted 24 hours ahead of the scheduled presentation.

Employment

Outside employment is strongly discouraged for full-time First Professional students.

Students wishing to be employed in on-campus student employee positions must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum 3.0 USAHS GPA
  • In good standing at USAHS
  • Second term or more (some exceptions may apply)

Students should refer to www.usa.edu, Employment Opportunities, for more information and application.

Examination and Proctoring

Each course syllabus describes the types of exams given, exam dates, and how exams are used to calculate the final course grade. Each course will have a learning assessment (final examination, lab practical, project, paper, etc.) during the 15th (final) week of the term unless approved by the Program Director.  

For First Professional students: Special early examinations given to individual students or groups of students as substitutes for final examinations are prohibited. Final examinations are to be given on the day and time scheduled during the final exam period (week 15), unless there is prior approval from the Program Director. When a final examination is given, each student is required to take the examination.

 

  • All Examinations that are a significant contribution to the final grade calculation will be proctored.  
    • If an exam is given solely for the purpose of helping the student determine their comprehension and is not weighted toward the course grade, they do not need to be proctored.
  • Examinations will begin and end promptly as scheduled.   

 

Campus Program:

  • For face-to-face exams, after the start of the examination, any student who wishes to leave the examination room will turn in his or her examination and will not be permitted to reenter unless there are extenuating circumstances.  In the online environment, if a student leaves the exam window the exam will be closed and will not be reopened unless the student can verify, in writing, that there was an interruption in online service.
  • If the faculty member permits work paper to be used, it will be distributed during the examination period with face-to-face exams. All work paper will be returned with the examination.
  • Books, other study material, book bags, and purses must be placed at the perimeter of the examination room or left outside of the examination room except in the case of an open book exam designated by the faculty.  In the online environment, the room will be visually scanned and no materials will be allowed in the testing room, unless previously designated by the faculty and noted on the proctoring form.
  • No electronic devices are allowed. Students are not permitted to use cell phones, Apple watches, Google glasses, etc. and should turn any ringers or alerts off.

Flex Program:

  • Dates for Online proctored exams in the Flex Program will be identified in the syllabus so students can schedule the proctoring service in time to avoid late scheduling fees.   Faculty will also schedule all online proctored exams for Flex students with ProctorU (the exclusive proctoring service).   Flex students who are uncertain how to schedule, should request assistance from the program administrative assistant.  All Flex students should complete the tutorial provided by ProctorU before scheduling an online exam using ProctorU services. Effective Fall 2017 trimester, all online proctoring will be conducted utilizing ProctorU.
  • In the online environment for Flex students, the exam window will be approximately twice as long as the length allowed for the examination.  For example – if the exam is two hours long, the window to take the exam should be 4 hours.  This allows students a period of time to verify their identity with the proctoring service and log into the exam.  The exam window will only be open during the scheduled time period.
  • Faculty will be available for student issues during the time period that the exam window is open.
  • As a general practice faculty will alter the day and time of the examinations in a course so that students who have conflicts are not unduly penalized for exams always falling on the same day and time.
  • Faculty will be conscious of lab weekends for Flex students and avoid giving an exam on a weekend they are on campus or on the days immediately before and after lab weekends.
  • In the online environment, work paper will be scanned by the proctor before the test begins and will be destroyed at conclusion -  and verified by the proctor.  Faculty may provide laminated USAHS letter head to use as scratch paper, or require the use of a white board that is erased at the end of the exam – and verified by the proctor.
  • No electronic devices are allowed. Students are not permitted to use cell phones, Apple watches, Google glasses, etc. and should turn any ringers or alerts off.
  • ProctorU provides a post-exam report including any incidents that may have occurred.  The administrative assistant for the program receives post exam reports on all exams and notifies faculty if anything is flagged as suspicious.

EXAMINATION REVIEWS

  • As a general rule, students will not be allowed access to review an exam upon its completion. An exception to this rule would be in the case where the examination will not be used a second time – on any campus or any program.
  • Best practice suggests a follow up exam review, in person, as a chat room, SKYPE, discussion board, or other method of interaction with the students to review frequently missed topics/content – with further instruction in areas of weak class performance.  Specific questions will not be discussed in these review sessions, unless it is understood by all course faculty that those questions reviewed are omitted from future exams – on all campuses, in all programs.
  • If a student requests to review an exam question(s) they should make an office appointment and review the exam with the faculty present.
  • Policy for Changing an Exam Date

Every attempt should be made to adhere to the exam dates as listed in the syllabus, course schedule, or stated as a class announcement. In the event that a faculty member needs to change an exam date, he or she should give an explanation to the students and provide at least two options for rescheduling the exam. The class votes on the best option and majority rules. If the students request an exam change and the course instructor approves the request, then the proposed change is voted on anonymously by the class and 100% of the class must agree before a change is allowed.

  • Review of Examinations During the Trimester

A review is to advance learning and is not a mechanism to obtain a higher grade. All written examinations will be reviewed at the earliest possible opportunity with the review mechanism at the discretion of the course instructor.

  • Final Examination Review

An opportunity to review a final examination is up to the course instructor. The course syllabus should state whether the final exam can be reviewed. The mechanism used to review final exams will be determined by the course instructor. The review of final exams must be completed prior to the second Friday of the following new trimester. Review of final exams is to advance learning. It is not a mechanism to obtain a higher grade.

  • Practical Examination Policy for University Courses

A minimum of 80% proficiency is required on all clinically related practical examinations. Safety requirements must be met at a 100% competency level. The practical examinations require the student to meet both safety and technical skill performance competencies. If a student does not perform in a safe manner, the student will receive an F grade for the practical examination; if the student earns less than 80% on the technical skill performance, the student will likewise receive an F grade for the practical examination. In either case, the student must retake the practical examination. The student must meet both safety (100%) and technical skill performance competencies (80%) to pass the practical retake.

First Retake Practical Examination Process

  1. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the faculty instructor within 1 to 2 business days of failing the exam to receive instructions on how to write a plan of remediation.
  2. The student is required to submit a written plan of remediation to the faculty instructor that will effectively prepare the student for their first retake practical examination.
  3. The faculty instructor will review and approve (via email or written signature) the student’s remediation plan and administer the first retake practical examination.
  4. The highest grade awarded for passing the first retake practical examination will be 75%. The faculty instructor will notify the student’s advisor regarding his or her current status and academic remediation plan.
  5. A student who receives an F on the first retake practical examination is required to follow the second retake practical examination process below.

Second Retake Practical Examination

  1. The student will contact the faculty instructor within 1 to 2 business days of failing the first retake practical exam to determine a revised remediation plan.
  2. The student is required to submit to the faculty instructor a written revised remediation plan that will effectively prepare the student for their second retake practical examination.
  3. If the student remediation plan is not approved by the faculty instructor and the student’s progress could affect the Clinical Education Office, the faculty instructor will notify the Clinical Education Office.
  4. The faculty instructor will review and approve (via email or written signature) the student’s revised remediation plan.
  5. The student will then submit the approved remediation plans (both the original remediation plan and the new revised remediation plan) to the Academic Progression and Retention Committee (APRC). (FL campus students submit to Sue Nordlund, Administrative Assistant, snordlund@usa.edu; CA and TX campuses students should submit their material to the chair of the APRC.)
  6. The APRC will gather appropriate past academic data that could help provide insight for the approval process.
  7. The APRC will review and approve that the student’s remediation process (following steps 1, 2, 3, and 4 above for both retakes) has been met.
  8. The APRC will review and approve that the faculty’s remediation process (following steps 1, 2, 3, and 4, above for both retakes) has been met.
  9. If the APRC approves the remediation process, the APRC chairperson will send an approved email to the student, faculty instructor, and Faculty Advisor for progressing forward with the second practical exam retake.
  10. When the remediation plan and process have been approved, the practical retake exam is required to be taken before the next scheduled exam of the course or before the last day of final exams (unless otherwise permitted by the faculty instructor).
  11. If the APRC does not approve the remediation process, the APRC chairperson will send a rejection email to the student, faculty instructor, Faculty Advisor, and Program Director. This rejection email will include the APRC criteria for disapproval, and the APRC requirements for remediation process approval. The student should resubmit his or her remediation plan to the APRC recorder, respective Program Director, Faculty Advisor, and faculty instructor after the remediation process has been met.
  12. The second retake exam will not be allowed until the remediation plan is approved by the faculty and the remediation process is approved by the APRC.
  13. If the student takes the second retake practical examination and receives an F on this second retake, the student will receive a D or F for that course.
  14. If the student passes the second retake practical exam (100% safety, 80% technical skill performance), the highest grade awarded on the second retake practical examination is 70%. All practical exams must be completed by the date grades are due as published on the First Professional Programs Academic Calendar.
  15. If the student has any concerns about the remediation process or plan, he or she can contact the chairperson of the Academic Progression and Retention Committee for counsel.

This policy does not apply to DPT Exit Exam Courses. Please see individual syllabi regarding retake policies for the Exit Exam.

  • Make-Up Examination Policy
    • Absences from an examination as a result of a medical condition and supported by a physician’s letter will be adjudicated by the faculty member(s) responsible for the course. Faculty may either schedule a make-up examination or excuse the student from the examination without penalty.
    • Absences from an examination due to non-medical circumstances will also be adjudicated by the faculty member(s) responsible for the course. Faculty may allow a make-up examination, excuse the student from the exam without penalty, or give the student a zero grade for the examination. This zero will be averaged with the grades obtained for all other examinations for this course.

Exit Examinations

All students in programs requiring exit exams are required to pass the exit examinations. These exams are designed to test the retention and integration of cognitive and clinical skills. They are given prior to a student’s scheduled graduation.

Expected and Maximum Completion Time Frames

There are three program options with expected completion time frames for First Professional students.

  • Full-time DPT/MOT/OTD
    • DPT (old curriculum) expected completion is 7 terms.
    • DPT (new curriculum beginning 2016-17) expected completion is 8 terms.
    • MOT expected completion is 6 terms.
    • OTD expected completion is 8 terms.
  • Flex DPT/MOT
    • DPT expected completion is 12 terms.
    • MOT expected completion is 9 terms.
  • Dual Full-time MOT/DPT
    • Expected completion is 10 terms.

When a student’s regular completion time frame changes due to academic or personal reasons, the following maximum time frames for completion apply:

  • Full-time DPT maximum completion is 11 terms.
  • Full-time DPT new curriculum beginning 2016-17 maximum completion is 12 terms.
  • Flex DPT maximum completion is 18 terms.
  • Full-time MOT maximum completion is 9 terms.
  • Flex MOT maximum completion is 14 terms.
  • Full-time OTD maximum completion is 13 terms.
  • Dual MOT/DPT maximum completion is 15 terms.

Note: Only under extenuating circumstances approved by the Program Director will a student be allowed to transition to part-time status in which the following maximum time frames to complete the graduation requirements apply:

  • Part-time DPT maximum completion is 14 terms.
  • Part-time MOT maximum completion is 12 terms.
  • Part-time OTD maximum completion is 16 terms.

Fingerprints and Criminal Record

Students acknowledge that their fingerprint results and criminal arrest/conviction record may limit internship placement availability and that internship placement is a requirement for graduation from USAHS. In addition, graduation from USAHS does not guarantee licensure or employment. A student’s arrest/conviction record may also affect eligibility for licensure as requirements vary from state to state. It is the student’s responsibility for understanding the licensure requirements for the state(s) in which he or she intends to seek licensure.

Enrollment at USAHS is at the student’s own risk and is not a guarantee of graduation, licensure, or employment.

Good Academic Standing, Academic Progression Warning, Academic Progression Probation, Dismissal

Good Academic Standing

Prior to completion of 59 credits for OT and 61 for DPT, it is expected that a student will meet the following minimum criteria:

  • Complete at least 75% of all credits attempted each trimester
  • At the completion of the first trimester (or 17 credit hours for OT and DPT) have a GPA of 2.0
  • At the completion of the second trimester (or 38 credit hours for OT and DPT) have a GPA of 2.3

Failure to meet any of the above criteria will result in the following actions:

  • Students will be issued an Academic Warning and will be required to meet with their Faculty Advisors to develop a plan to improve their academic study. If a student fails to meet the satisfactory academic progress criteria for 2 consecutive trimesters, they will be placed on Academic Progress Probation and will be required to meet with the Academic Progression and Retention Committee (APRC).

The University requires that all students enrolled in the professional education programs have a 2.50 GPA after the completion of the third (full-time) trimester, or 59 credits for OT and 61 credits for DPT, in the academic curriculum to continue in the respective program. If a student does not achieve this cumulative GPA he or she is dismissed from the program.

Academic Progression Warning

  • An emailed letter of academic concern will be issued to any student who has a grade at midterm below a C level. The intent of the concern letter is to notify the student of less than satisfactory academic progress and the potential for course failure. A student receiving an academic concern email letter at midterm must first contact—by phone, email, or in person—the instructor(s) for the course(s) within 1 week of receipt of the concern letter. The student and course instructor(s) will discuss the student’s performance, and the student will develop a plan, approved by the instructor, to improve future performance. The student must then inform his or her Faculty Advisor of the plan. If a student does not contact his or her course instructor and advisor, a note will be placed in the student’s academic file noting the failure to comply with this policy.
  • An Academic Warning will be given to any student who is not in academic good standing at the conclusion of any trimester. The intent of the academic warning is to notify the student of less than satisfactory academic progress. A student receiving an academic warning at the end of the trimester must contact his or her Faculty Advisor during the first week of the subsequent trimester and develop a plan, approved by the student’s advisor, to improve future performance.

Academic Progression Probation

  • A student who makes a grade below a C in any course will be placed on Academic Progress Probation and must undergo remediation and repeat the course for credit. Such students will be made aware in writing that they are at risk for failure to complete the program.
    • A student who is no longer in good academic standing must meet with the instructor and his or her Faculty Advisor to develop a plan for remediation and monitoring. The plan may allow him or her to take additional coursework with the approval of the Program Director.
    • The student must receive a grade of C or better on the course retake to progress academically.
    • If the student receives a grade of C or better, the student will be taken off academic probation.
    • If the student receives a grade below C when retaking a course, the student will be dismissed.
  • Any student who is on probation may not participate in any work-study program unless approved by the Program Director. Students placed on probation are at risk of not graduating from the University and not passing the national board exams.
  • Any student who does not successfully complete the coursework necessary to exit probation may be at risk of being denied federal financial aid due to not maintaining satisfactory academic progress.

Dismissal

  • A student will be dismissed from the program if
    • an F is received in any course;
    • two grades of D are received;
    • a student receiving a failing grade during fieldwork/internship is also subject to this policy (See the Clinical Education Handbook); or
    • after the completion of 58 credits, the student has a grade point average below 2.5.
  • The Registrar notifies the APRC and the Program Director of any students who are being recommended for academic dismissal. The student will be notified of his or her dismissal by the Registrar.
  • A student may appeal the dismissal to the Academic Appeals Committee/Program Director (see Academic Evaluation and Right of Appeal). If an appeal is successful, a readmission agreement between the student and the Program Director (or Dean) is made that documents the conditions for continuation at the University. Readmission agreements can only be appealed if there are mitigating circumstances and an appeal can be made only to the University President.
  • When a student is suspended for academic probation or for professional misconduct he or she will turn in his or her student ID badge to the Registrar and remain off campus. Students may visit a campus if they have made an appointment by phone with their Faculty Advisor or Registrar and restrict their activities to that appointment.

Health Records

Each student is required to provide a completed Student Medical Record Form to be kept on file by the Clinical Education Office. Failure to submit the Student Medical Record Form will prevent the student’s participation in practicum, internship, and fieldwork clinical experiences. Detailed instructions regarding required medical records are sent to new students prior to registration. Required medical forms are due to the Clinical Education Office by the date provided each term. 

Health Services

All students are required to carry health insurance. Proof of health insurance must be provided to the Clinical Education Office each trimester.
The University is not licensed to provide health care services.

  • St. Augustine campus

Flagler Hospital has a 24-hour emergency service. For non-emergency care, the University contracts with a family practice physician to provide services:

  Dr. James Connor
1851 Old Moultrie Road
St. Augustine, FL 32086
904-824-8088
 

Additionally, there are local walk-in clinics that are equipped to provide emergency and non-emergency care.

  • San Marcos campus

Emergency services are available at the following locations:

  Palomar Medical Center
555 E. Valley Parkway
Escondido, CA 92025
Tri-City Medical Center
4002 Vista Way
Oceanside, CA 92056
  • Austin campus

Emergency and non-emergency medical services are available at the following Austin locations:

  St. David’s Urgent Care
5700 West Slaughter Lane
Austin, TX 78749
512-394-0020
Nextcare Urgent Care
6001 West William Cannon Drive #302
Austin, TX 78749
512-288-3627
  Austin Immediate Care
5000 West Slaughter Lane #100
Austin, TX 78749
512-282-2273
St. Davis South Austin Medical Center
901 West Ben White Boulevard
Austin, TX 78704
512-447-2211
  Seton Southwest Hospital
7900 Farm to Market 1826
Austin, TX 78737
512-324-9000
University Medical Center at Brackenridge
601 East 15th Street
Austin, TX 78701
512-324-7000
  • Miami campus

Emergency and non-emergency medical services are available at the following Miami locations:

  Kendall Regional Medical Center
11750 SW 40Th St
Miami FL 33175
305-223-3000
Baptist Health Medical Plaza at Doral Urgent Care
9915 NW 41st St
Doral FL 33178
786-586-3830

Liability Release and Claim Waiver

Upon acceptance, students are asked to sign a general Waiver of Liability Form on behalf of the University prior to their participation in any athletic or extracurricular event while in residence. A copy of this form is located on the myUSA portal Students tab. These forms are placed in the student’s file for record keeping purposes.

Licensure Exams 

DPT students will not be given permission to sit for a licensure exam that is scheduled prior to all degree requirements being met.

Lockers

On the St. Augustine, San Marcos, and Austin campuses, lockers are not assigned and are therefore on a first-come, first-served basis. Students must supply their own locks and remove these locks at the end of each term. All lockers are subject to search at any time as they are considered University property.

Lockers are located in the following locations:

  • San Marcos campus: Hallway by the library and first floor of Building C
  • St. Augustine campus: Academic building in the first floor lavatories
  • Austin campus: Buildings A and B on the upper level near the amphitheater classroom

Orientation

All new First Professional students are required to attend  in-person orientation as well as complete an online orientation. Orientation activities include payment of tuition, submission of vehicle registration information required for parking decals, introduction to University departments, and a review of the Student Handbook.

Program Change

All program change requests will be considered on an individual basis and are contingent upon space availability.

Incoming Students

Incoming (new) students who want to request a change of their admission to another degree program must make a request in writing (email is acceptable) to the Director of Admissions at least 6 weeks prior to the start of the trimester. To be considered, the student must have successfully completed all of the required prerequisites for the program to which he or she is requesting change. The Director of Admissions will notify the student via email of the outcome of the request. Please note: The start and completion dates of students who change degree programs may be extended.

First Term Students

Program Change Request Forms must be submitted to the student’s current Program Director by midterm of the first trimester. Program change requests not received by the midterm deadline will be considered during the subsequent trimester. To be considered, the student must have successfully completed all of the required prerequisites for the program to which he or she is requesting to change.

Second Term (and Beyond) Students

Program Change Request Forms must be submitted to the student’s current Program Director by midterm of the current trimester.

Program Change Request Process for Current Students

In order to be considered for a program change, a student must

  • be in good academic standing at the time of the request; program change requests will not be considered from students who are currently remediating or retaking coursework, who are under review for appeal or professional misconduct, or who are on academic probation; program change requests from students who are on approved leave of absence will be considered;
  • complete the Program Change Request Form located on the myUSA portal, Student Services tab under Forms and submit the completed form to:
    • his or her Program Director,
    • the Program Director of the degree program to which the student is seeking to change, and
    • the Director of Admissions (The Director of Admissions will approve only if the student has successfully completed all of the required prerequisites for the program to which he or she is requesting to change);

Once the Program Change Request Form has been considered by all applicable administrators, the student will be notified of the outcome via email by the University Registrar. USAHS scholarships are not transferable from one program to another. Changing programs may extend the degree completion date.

Reenrollment Timelines

A USAHS First Professional program graduate who decides to seek admission to another USAHS First Professional degree program must enroll within 3 years of his or her graduation date or he or she may be required to retake foundational (HSC) coursework and complete additional internship/fieldwork experiences. To be considered for admission to another First Professional degree program, a USAHS graduate must submit to the Admissions Office a completed application for admission; however, transcripts and GRE score reports do not need to be resubmitted with the new application.

Dual-degree students who delay beginning the DPT portion of the program after receiving the MOT degree must reenroll in the DPT program within -3 calendar years or they may be required to complete additional foundational coursework and/or internships in order to complete the second degree. To reenroll, a returning Dual student must notify the University Registrar in writing (email is acceptable) of his or her intent to resume classes at least 6 weeks before the start of the trimester.

Student Membership in Professional Associations

All University of St. Augustine students must be members of their respective national professional associations (American Physical Therapy Association [APTA], American Occupational Therapy Association [AOTA]). Dual students will be members of both professional associations (MOT during first 6 trimesters; DPT during last 4 trimesters). Current students will be asked to show proof of membership as part of the practicum courses. OT students will also need to provide evidence of a state membership.

Student Associations

The first trimester students will be assessed a one-time mandatory student activity fee of $20.00. This fee is subject to change.

Examples of activities covered by the student association fee include but are not limited to

  • authorized University functions,
  • community awareness programs, and
  • miscellaneous preapproved events.

This fee is allocated for campus-based student professional associations. Physical therapy students will be members in SPTA. Occupational therapy students will be members in SOTA. Dual degree students will be members of SOTA in the first half of the Dual Degree program and SPTA in the second half. Student representatives from all classes and programs meet monthly with Program Directors to share information and discuss concerns.

All student events are to be coordinated through these associations with all allocated monies to be controlled by the SPTA and SOTA organizations. All functions/events involving the University or the use of its name require prior review and written approval by (1) the respective Program Director and (2) the University’s Director of Marketing. Possible examples of University-sanctioned events might include community/charitable events such as the annual 5K run and University or departmental picnics/celebrations. A student-organized off-site baseball team would be an example of a non-University event that could be supported by the student associations but would need approval if the University name was used. Any requests to use the University logo on clothing, etc. requires the same approval as listed above.

The SPTA and SOTA organizations operate independently; however, financial support may be provided upon agreement of the supporting organization. Any use of funds requires two signatures from current officers of the respective organizations.

Student Retention Program: Tutoring

Based on availability, students who have a documented need (course average below 75%) for assistance in a class may request tutoring. This request for a tutor needs to be signed by the student’s instructor who verifies the at-risk need by signing the Tutor Request Form. Students obtain the form and return it signed by the instructor to the Faculty Advisor, Administrative Assistant, or Academic Advisor in charge of the Tutor Program. Availability of tutors is not guaranteed.

The Tutor Program Manager will indicate the name and phone number of a recommended tutor on the bottom of the form and explain that it is the responsibility of the student to contact the tutor directly to arrange a mutually convenient schedule.

If the student is requesting a tutor before there is a grade to verify a course average below 75%, the student may receive tutoring with faculty permission until midterm. At midterm, the tutoring need will be reevaluated.