Leaves of Absence
Medical Leave of Absence
Students who must leave the University because of a documented medical condition may request a medical leave of absence from the program director or department chair. Documentation of the serious nature of the medical condition must be provided. Medical leaves are generally approved for one semester but may be renewed for one additional semester with written permission from the dean of the college. Students may return at the end of the leave when medical clearance is provided. This policy does not bind the University to alter their curricula or major program, which may have been discontinued or substantially altered during the approved leave of absence. Students who change their program or major upon return will be under the requirements in effect at the time of their return.
The student is responsible for obtaining all relevant information that may affect their standing and benefits including but not limited to financial aid and veteran’s benefits. A student on approved medical leave is considered to be in continuous matriculation during that leave period. If a student does not return after the leave or extend it, he or she must go through the readmission process to return.
Military Leave of Absence
Graduate Students called to active duty while enrolled in the University should contact their program director. Students must present documentation. Students wishing to obtain a Military Leave of Absence may be offered the following options after the program director confers with financial aid, instructors, and other University officials:
- Withdrawing from the courses with a full tuition refund or tuition credit, in accordance with University and government guidelines.
- If a student completed at least 70% of the coursework and upon recommendation of his/her dean, the student may elect to take incompletes and make special arrangements for course completion with individual instructors.
- Students are eligible to return within one year following active duty. However, the degree requirements may have changed, and the student may be required to comply with degree program requirements in effect at the time of their return to the University.