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This page is intended to serve as a source for NMC policies and guidelines. Our policies have broad application throughout the institution, that help ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations; promotes efficiency; enhances the NMC mission; or reduces institutional risk.
Students are expected to be familiar with the policies found below, in any supplements and any subsequent updates. These policies are subject to change without notice, obligation or liability. By enrolling at NMC, students agree to accept and abide by the terms stated in these institutional policies. Any changes also apply to currently matriculated students. Updates, notifications and changes to these policies can be found here.
Students must also familiarize themselves with and agree to accept and abide by the terms stated in the Student Housing Handbook (as applicable), Financial Aid policies & procedures (as applicable) and the handbook for the program in which you they enrolled.
Conference/Business Travel Policy PDF - including Checklist and Authorization Form
The federal Copyright Law requires all members of the NMC community, including faculty, staff, students, volunteers, and patrons to respect the proprietary rights of owners of copyrights and refrain from actions that constitute an infringement of copyright or other proprietary rights.
Because of advances in technology and ease to copy, transmit, distribute, adapt, display, or perform copyrighted works, individuals must increasingly be aware of various copyright implications when using a wide range of materials and devices. Copyright violations related to printed materials, materials in digital format, audio and video recordings, music, Internet transmissions, computer programs and databases, or any other types of materials create potential legal liability for NMC and the individuals involved.
To support NMC's mission to create, discover, and disseminate knowledge and to further NMC's Mission and Core Values, members of the NMC community are strongly encouraged to access the "Copyright and Educational Fair Use" webpage here, wherein they can find guidance on copyright and fair use compliance at NMC. NMC adheres to and requires its faculty, staff and students to comply with all of the guidance, including fair use, found in the "Copyright and Educational Fair Use" page, unless the information contained therein does not reflect current federal Copyright Law. Faculty, staff, students, and any third-parties accessing www.methodistcollege.edu must also be familiar with and comply with the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy as it relates to any and all material, including designs, methods, and structures found therein.
Faculty members, staff and other employees who willfully disregard the Copyright Policy place themselves individually at risk of legal action. In such cases, NMC may refuse to defend the employee in the court suit and in these suits personal liability may be incurred by the employee or student. Students who violate the Copyright Policy are also at risk of violating the NMC Code of Conduct, which may result in dismissal from NMC and employees may be at risk of termination.
In compliance with the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, Nebraska Methodist College is pleased to report a 4-year graduation rate for bachelor's degree programs of 68% in 2013-2014.
Nebraska Methodist College is committed to respecting all members of the campus community and ensuring that concerns are addressed fairly and resolved promptly. NMC uses a software system called Maxient for incident report routing and electronic record keeping. The following reporting links are available on the NMC website, in course syllabi, and via the links below:
Nebraska Methodist College is committed to protecting the privacy of protected health information (PHI) in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. To achieve this end, the College, an affiliate of Methodist Health System, has adopted policies and procedures to protect the privacy, and provide for the security of PHI. Students who have access to PHI in the course of their programs are required to maintain the confidentiality of any and all PHI they have been appropriately granted authorization to use and view.
Students with access to PHI must respect their patient's rights to privacy and understand and adhere to their clinical site's privacy policies. When using or disclosing PHI, or when requesting PHI from others, students must make reasonable efforts to limit the information to the minimum necessary to accomplish the educational purpose of the use, disclosure, or request. Students must remove any patient identifiers before transporting, disclosing, or transmitting any document or assignment. (See below for steps to remove patient identifiers).
Students who access PHI are responsible for protecting and safeguarding it and to properly dispose (i.e., shred) of any notes, e-mails, thumb drives, CD-ROMs, Care Plans, and any other device or medium that contains PHI. Because of the risk of loss or theft of mobile devices, PHI should never be stored on or transferred to mobile devices unless specific approval is given and the mobile device contains the appropriate safeguards.
Students are also prohibited from disclosing any PHI on social media. Social media include, but are not limited to, collaborative projects (e.g, Wikipedia), blogs and microblogs (e.g., Twitter), content communities (e.g., YouTube), social networking sites (e.g., Facebook).
Failure to abide by the College's HIPAA Privacy Policy, and any other Methodist Health System HIPAA policy, may result in the suspension or dismissal from the College and/or legal action brought against the student.
Removing/De-identifying Protected Health Information (PHI)
Protected Health Information (PHI): Information in any format that identifies the individual, including demographic information collected from an individual that can reasonably be used to identify the individual. Additionally, PHI is information created or received by a healthcare provider, health plan, employer, or healthcare clearinghouse; and relates to the past, present, or future physical or mental health or condition of an individual.
De-identified: Information that has certain identifiers (see "identifiers" below) MUST be removed so that it is no longer considered Protected Health Information.
Identifiers: Under the HIPAA Privacy Rule "identifiers" include the following:
In accordance with the Fair and Accurate Transactions Act, Nebraska Methodist College has established a required Red Flags Rule/Identity Theft Prevention Program with comprehensive procedures intended to prevent, detect, and mitigate student identity theft. The detection of "red flags" is central to the program. A red flag is defined as a pattern, practice, or specific activity that indicates the possible existence of identity theft. NMC service providers (e.g., lenders, collection agency, etc.) are also required to be in compliance with the Red Flags Rule.
If a student experiences identity theft unrelated to business at Nebraska Methodist College, he or she should immediately contact the Dean of Students. A student who wishes to change his/her name or address on file at NMC should contact the Registrar's office for assistance.
Purpose and Scope of Policy:
This statement sets forth the minimum expectations and requirements regarding Minors who participate in activities and programs taking place on Nebraska Methodist College's (hereinafter "College" or "NMC") land, in its facilities, or under the authority and direction of the College at other locations. Specific NMC programs can, and may be required to, set forth more requirements and more rigorous expectations depending on the degree of interaction with Minors within the program. The College expects each and every member of the NMC community to adhere to and act in accordance with this policy. Failure to comply with the requirements set forth in this policy may lead to disciplinary action and/or revocation of the opportunity to use College facilities.
This policy affects all units of NMC with the exception of those academic courses wherein interaction with Minors is integral to the educational and patient-care related purposes of the academic course. Such academic courses will be subject to their own policies relating to Minors.
This policy does not apply to general public events where parents/guardians are invited/expected to provide supervision of Minors.
Definitions:
Policy: The following requirements govern participation in Programs covered by this policy:
Title IX: Sexual Harassment Policy
NMC maintains and strictly adheres to its Sexual Harassment Policy. Any reports of sexual harassment, assault, or violence may also subject the violating Adult to the processes, procedures, and sanctions as provided for in the Sexual Harassment Policy. This policy can be accessed online at www.methodistcollege.edu.
Reporting Allegation(s) of Inappropriate Behavior or Abuse of a Minor
Every member of the NMC community has an obligation to immediately report any instance or suspected instance of the abuse of or inappropriate interaction with a Minor - "If you see something, say something." Nebraska law requires any person who has a reasonable cause to believe that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect or observes such a child being subjected to conditions or circumstances which reasonably would result in child abuse or neglect, report it to the proper law enforcement agency or to the Department of Health and Human Services. Accordingly, if you have reasonable cause to believe that child abuse or neglect has occurred, including sexual assault:
DHHS has established the following toll-free number to be used by any person at any hours of the day or night to report child abuse: (800) 652-1999.
Any member of the NMC community who suspects any inappropriate behavior or abuse of Minor is also required to contact and report the inappropriate behavior and/or abuse to the coordinator of the Program, a College administrator, and/or campus security.
Nebraska Methodist College ("NMC" or "College"), as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, is prohibited from participating or intervening in any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office. Political intervention includes not only making financial contributions but also the publication or distribution of written or oral statements on behalf of or in opposition to a particular candidate. There are no exceptions to this prohibition. Even an insubstantial violation may lead to monetary fines and exposes NMC to the possibility of revocation of its tax-exempt status.
Nonetheless, NMC is dedicated to the free expression of ideas. It encourages students, faculty, and other employees, in their individual capacities, to participate fully in the political process during campaigns by candidates for public office as long as they do not-either overtly or implicitly-involve the College.
In order to permit the most robust political discourse during partisan political campaigns for public office, while at the same time ensuring NMC's compliance with state and federal law, including the applicable restrictions placed on it as a tax-exempt organization, everyone connected with NMC must observe the following rules with respect to his or her participation in national, state, or local partisan political campaign activities:
As noted above, these policies are not intended to infringe in any way your individual right to support a particular candidate or participate in a political campaign. You remain entirely free to become involved in the election process as you choose, so long as you do so in a way that does not-either overtly or impliedly-involve the College.
*Note, however, that when such College-related organizations engage in partisan political campaign activities aimed outside the College community, they may not utilize College space for such activities, but instead must conduct all such activities off campus.
The Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 requires institutions to take steps to combat the unauthorized distribution of copyrighted materials through peer-to-peer distribution or illegal downloading of intellectual property.
Definitions:
Peer to Peer (P2P) file sharing programs were developed to allow distribution and/or shared access to digitally stored information, such as computer programs, multi media (music and video), documents, or electronic books.
P2P file sharing connects users to a P2P client network that provides a platform for locating and sharing files. P2P users are typically required to install a software program on their own personal computers. Well-known client networks include Bearshare, BitTorrent, eDonkey, Gnutella, Limewire, and Morpheus. Risks of installing P2P software include identity theft, damage to the computer and the files on it (pictures, documents, etc.), and the possibility that the computer could be used to send spam or attack other computers.
P2P file sharing programs are not by themselves illegal. However, when they are used in aid of violating copyright laws by sharing copyright protected files without the authorization or consent by the copyright owners, they become illegal. Most commercially produced music and movies are copyrighted and cannot be freely shared. Using P2P file sharing software to distribute copyrighted materials without the permission and consent of the copyright holder is illegal and subjects the violator to the penalties provided for in the U.S. copyright laws. Unauthorized distribution of copyrighted materials can lead to both civil and criminal penalties.
Liability and Penalties:
Civil penalties may include actual damages and profits, statutory damages (ranging from$750-$30,000 per work that is infringed). For "willful" infringement a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can in its discretion also assess cost and attorneys fees. Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five (5) years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense.
Policy and Procedure:
Members of the NMC community must follow institutional policies for appropriate use of technology resources as well as comply with all state and federal copyright laws. Methodist Health System (MHS) maintains the computer network that supports the academic and administrative needs of NMC students, faculty, and staff. MHS Internet Access Policy states that all users are responsible for using the network in a professional, lawful, and ethical manner. MHS, in cooperation with NMC, will monitor the use of P2P file sharing and pursue all violations of state and federal laws.
Sharing copyrighted works, as is easily done with P2P programs, also violates the MHS Internet Access Policy and NMC Code of Conduct Policy. Any NMC student, employee, or other individual will be subject to disciplinary action and elimination of internet access upon violation of this policy.
Sharing digital files (such as music, movies, television shows, games, computer software, text, e-books and photographs) under any of the following conditions constitutes copyright infringement
Beyond the personal risks of P2P file sharing, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) vigorously pursue infringements of copyrights owned by their individual members, as is their right under the Copyright Law of the United States. Under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998 (DMCA), NMC is required to cooperate in the pursuit of alleged violators. NMC is under no obligation to accept responsibility for, or to help defend, the activities of students engaged in illegal file sharing.
File Sharing Legal Alternatives
The Higher Education Opportunity Act requires all colleges and universities, including NMC, to offer legal alternatives to illegal file sharing (See here). No endorsements or evaluations are implied.
Removing P2P Programs
To remove P2P file sharing programs from a computer, consult directions for removing P2P software. (See here).
All students are advised that NMC programs including, but not limited to, the Center for Health Partnerships, Upward Bound, and Student Government, take photographs and videos of students throughout the year. These photographs and videos often depict students in classrooms, study areas, graduation activities, and at other NMC related activities. NMC reserves the right to use these photographs and videos as a part of its publicity efforts, including, but not limited to, alumni newsletters, social media posts, and the NMC blog without providing the student or alumni compensation.
NMC Marketing also takes and uses professional photographs, videos, and testimonials of students for general and specific publicity and marketing efforts. Students who are asked to participate in NMC Marketing activities will be required to complete a Photo/Video/Testimonial Release Form before participating wherein they agree to NMC using, reusing, publishing, or republishing their photograph, image, likeness, voice, and any oral or written statement, regardless of format, which may include print, broadcast or electronic media, for commercial and marketing purposes without compensation.
The safety and wellbeing of the NMC community is the overarching goal of the NMC Emergency and Safety Procedure Manual. However, the existence of policies and procedures is of limited value without the active support of the students, faculty, and staff. Everyone at NMC should be prepared to take appropriate and deliberate action when an emergency arises. Safety is everyone's responsibility!
In addition to emergency procedures, prevention is a critical factor in any emergency plan. Faculty, staff, counselors, and students are in the best position to identify and react to any warning signals or potential dangers and must take personal responsibility for reporting concerns. These could range from safety concerns in a laboratory to unusual or suspicious behavior. It is through a trust-based partnership among administration, faculty and staff, and students that our campus can remain safe and focused on education.
NMC supports the use of social media to reach audiences important to the College such as students, prospective students, faculty and staff. The College presence or participation on social media sites is guided by College policy. This policy applies to all use of social media by NMC students, faculty and staff, unless otherwise provided, to represent or discuss matters concerning the College and/or members of the NMC community, whether or not such use involves the College's network or other computer resources, including online communications related to interactions in or about clinical and didactic course activities. Read the Entire Online Communications Policy below.
The health of our students is very important to success in and out of the classroom. All students must maintain and adhere to the student health policies and procedures.
The College does not assume any liability for loss, damage, or injury resulting from theft, explosion, fire, mechanical failure of either gas or water lines, loss of electricity, defective wiring, or negligence of any occupant of the building. It is strongly urged that students purchase appropriate insurance policies to protect themselves from loss or damage to personal possessions.
All students participating in off-campus programs and/or activities sponsored by the College are required to sign and submit a waiver of liability and hold harmless agreement.
All members of the academic community have the responsibility to create and support an educational environment which will achieve the basic purposes of an institution of higher learning. Each member of the community should be treated with respect and dignity. Each has the right to learn which imposes a duty not to infringe upon the rights of others.
The academic community environment is designed to encourage a variety of thoughts, behaviors, and values within the educational goals of the community. An important aspect of the community is the recognition of differences between individuals. In all instances, including informal College activities and associations, each individual should be treated in a fair and unbiased manner. Each member of the academic community shall actively encourage practices that insure that all persons are welcome at the College and are extended all the privileges of the academic community to which they are entitled.
Decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court, while guaranteeing a student's freedom, have assigned two responsibilities to a student that are congruent with the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the United States Constitution:
Unauthorized access is defined as gaining access to space, materials and information without the consent and permission of designated personnel who have responsibility for the specified space, materials and information. In accordance with College policies and rights to privacy, only authorized personnel may have access to designated College space, materials and information. Authorized personnel include designated personnel with responsibility for the specified space, materials and/or information and students and College employees who have obtained permission and consent from designated personnel.
Unauthorized entry or use of College facilities (including residence hall and/or resident rooms, either through forced entry or other means), the reproduction or unauthorized use of College keys, unauthorized accessing, destruction of or interference with computer programs, data bases, files or information stored in College computer systems is prohibited. Further inappropriate use of a computer system and/or medical records at any clinical site for the purpose of accessing a patient's protected health information is prohibited. Students violating this policy are subject to disciplinary action.
Below you will find general information and policies about the admissions department and the admissions process at Nebraska Methodist College.
Applicants pay a non-refundable application fee. Applicants who are granted admission pay an enrollment fee that is applied to the tuition for the first semester at the College. This fee will not be refunded to students who withdraw prior to the start of the semester. The enrollment fee is encouraged within thirty (30) days of admission.
Clinical facilities require that Nebraska Methodist College perform drug screenings and background investigations on all students before they are allowed to participate in clinical experiences. Therefore, students will be required to have a background investigation performed and submit to drug screening before being allowed into clinical practice. Further information about the requirements is online and provided at new student orientation. Students enrolled in exclusively online undergraduate and graduate programs may be required to have a background investigation performed and submit to drug screening based on the policies of clinical practice sites used in their communities.
Persons who have criminal records, substance abuse problems or health problems that could interfere with safe clinical practice in their chosen discipline may be ineligible for student clinical practice, licensure and/or professional certification, or employment. However, students with a history of these difficulties are not necessarily precluded from a career in healthcare, and will therefore be considered for continued enrollment on a case-by-case basis. The College always keeps the interest of the student as a top priority, and reserves the right to dismiss any student that the College feels will not be able to secure a career in their chosen profession as a result of a history of past legal or behavioral difficulties.
Phlebotomy Career Certificate
Admission Criteria
Note: A medical terminology course is recommended, but not required.
Application Process
To be considered for admission to a certificate program, an applicant must provide and complete all of the following items:
Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, any individual who is or has been in attendance at NMC is considered a "student." In harmony with FERPA regulations, an individual applying to NMC is not considered a "student" unless and until they are admitted and in attendance. Once an individual is admitted and begins attending NMC, thereby becoming a "student", NMC will treat any application records as confidential to the extent permitted by FERPA. NMC considers an admitted student to be attendance when they attend their first day of classes.
Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) Doctoral Program faculty will evaluate all coursework submitted by the transfer applicant and reserves the right to accept or deny any of the credits offered for transfer. Please refer to the Doctoral Credit Transfer Policy below.
Admission to a graduate program at NMC is a selective process. All aspects of a student's record are evaluated in making an admission decision, with an emphasis placed on a student's academic success and potential. All components of the application must be submitted before an application will be reviewed. Official transcripts must contain evidence of good standing from the last school attended. There is no requirement to have a GRE or other standardized exam for admission to the Graduate Programs.
Final selection of applicants to be admitted shall be made by the College, which reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant for any lawful reason. NMC does not obligate itself to admit all students who meet the minimum admission criteria. Qualified students are admitted in compliance with federal and state non-discrimination laws. In compliance with Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, NMC endeavors to provide qualified students equal access to the College's educational opportunities, facilities, programs and activities.
Health Professions (non-nursing)
Admission Criteria
Application Process
Master of Science in Nursing
Admission Criteria
Option 1 - BSN prepared applicants
Option 2 - RN to MSN
Application Process
Post-Master's Certificate - Nurse Educator/ Nurse Executive
Admission Criteria
Application Process
All students must show proof of required immunizations and complete a pre-entrance health assessment. Please refer to student health requirements on the Campus Health webpage.
Applicants are evaluated based on Undergraduate Admission Criteria and follow the admissions process and the following:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Registered Nurse (RN)
The matriculation date is the desired initial enrollment date. Students indicate on the application their intended start date. If a student wishes to defer the matriculation date, a written request for a change of admission must be submitted to the Admissions Office. Due to the competitiveness of some programs, a change of admission may be denied and a student may be required to re-apply.
Students may enroll at Nebraska Methodist College for purposes of personal enrichment, professional growth or transfer to another institution. Students are required to complete the Non-Degree Application and submit appropriate application and enrollment fees. Non-degree seeking students may enroll in a course on a space-available basis. Permission of the administrator directly responsible for the course is required. The registration process and payment of fees are completed prior to enrollment in a course as a non-degree seeking student. Non-degree seeking students are not eligible for financial aid. A student wishing to transfer to degree-seeking status must submit a formal application to the College. An application to a degree program may be submitted at any time, but must meet application deadlines. Up to nine (9) semester credits earned as a non-degree seeking student may be applied toward a degree. The Admissions Office can provide details regarding moving to degree-seeking status.
A student who withdraws from the College and returns within one year must have a Leave of Absence/Withdrawal Request Form requesting a leave of absence on file with the Office of the Registrar. If this form was not submitted, or if the student has not been in attendance longer than one year, the student must reapply to the College. A student will be subject to the policies and curriculum in effect at the time of readmission.
The College will waive the $25 admission application fee for individuals who are supported by or participating in an agency or program that seeks to guide first-generation, prospective students to post-secondary education. An applicant must provide written requests from the agency/program to validate their eligibility and participation for support and services.
In compliance with federal regulations the following retention of records is required.
The College is committed to working with potential students to maximize transfer credit. The Admissions Office can provide an initial evaluation during the application process. Applicants granted admission will have an official evaluation completed by the Registrar's Office. Credit for courses taken elsewhere may be accepted for transfer from another college provided:
Grades earned in transfer courses will not be used in determining the student's cumulative grade point average, unless the student has already matriculated and has been given permission to enroll at another institution. All courses accepted for transfer will be noted on the transcript. Such transfer courses will be included in the total number of hours passed.
Admission to a degree program at NMC is a selective process. All aspects of a student's record are evaluated in making an admission decision, with an emphasis placed on a student's academic success and potential. All components of the application must be submitted before an application will be reviewed. Official transcripts must contain evidence of good standing from the last school attended. Final selection of applicants to be admitted shall be made by the College, which reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant for any lawful reason.
NMC does not obligate itself to admit all students who meet the minimum admission criteria. Qualified students are admitted in compliance with federal and state non-discrimination laws. In compliance with Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, NMC endeavors to provide qualified students equal access to the College's educational opportunities, facilities, programs and activities.
Applicants are evaluated on the basis of the following criteria:
Refer to the program webpage for the most current program requirements and recommendations.
Application Process
To be considered for admission to an undergraduate degree program, an applicant must provide and complete all of the following items:
Homeschooled Applicants
Completion of application items listed above.
When to Apply
Application for admission should be made several months in advance of an applicant's intended enrollment date. Application deadlines vary by program and are listed under the academic programs pages.
The Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) is the official representative of the College in matters pertaining to the scholastic life of the student body. Regulations made by the VPAA in addition to, in abrogation of, or in interpretation of the following regulations have the same force as the regulations themselves.
In case of discrepancy between the College catalog and other publications or academic information provided by any faculty or staff member other than the VPAA, the catalog takes precedence.
The College reserves the right to terminate or modify program requirements, content and sequence of courses, and program offerings. Students withdrawing from the College completely for a period of one calendar year or more are bound by the catalog in effect when they re-enter.
It is the responsibility of each student to be acquainted with all requirements for his or her degree program and to assume responsibility for meeting those requirements. In case of ambiguity, discrepancy or disagreement, the regulations and requirements stated here and any subsequent modifications or interpretations by the Vice President for Academic Affairs will prevail.
In many situations related to academic issues, the Vice President for Academic Affairs has delegated decision-making authority to the Council of Academic Deans. The Council of Academic Deans is comprised of the Deans of Nursing, Health Professions, Arts & Sciences and Professional Development. The Council of Academic Deans is authorized to make decisions for the Vice President for Academic Affairs, with the same authority as the Vice President for Academic Affairs. The Vice President for Academic Affairs retains the right to rescind the authority of the Council of Academic Deans at any time.
To file a report of a potential Academic Integrity violation, please click here.
If you have a Student Academic Concern, please click here. Student Academic Concerns cover grade disputes and/or a decision perceived to be arbitrary, capricious, or applied unequally and impacts one's academic progression.
For all other Compliment, Concerns or Comments, please click here.
Students should be advised that the Academic Calendar may vary among programs and ground versus online courses. The on campus and online academic calendars are posted to the College website. Calendars for specific academic programs can be obtained from the respective Program Director or Dean.
Students of all races, cultures and heritages bring to the College a rich and valuable perspective. We welcome the attendance of all students and will endeavor to be supportive of various faiths and practices. Although the designated holidays for the College are New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, we expect that students of various faiths will request excused absences for other religious holidays. Please direct requests to the instructor. Refer to the Academic Calendar for specific recess periods.
See the Academic CalendarStudent enrollment status at the college is classified as active or inactive.
Active Status
Active students are:
Certificate Students:
Undergraduate Students (not including accelerated BSN students):
Undergraduate Accelerated BSN Students:
Graduate Students:
Inactive Status
Students are classified as inactive when they do not register for and enroll in at least one course per semester.
Updated: July 2013
Honor Roll
Upon completion of a term, all certificate students earning a grade point average of 3.75 or above will be listed.
Dean's List
All full-time undergraduate students earning a semester grade point average of 3.75 or above will be listed. Students with an incomplete on their semester grade report are not eligible for the list.
Graduation Honors
Graduates with an Associate Degree or a Certificate in Medical Assistant will be awarded honors based on cumulative grade point averages as follows:
| Highest Distinction |
3.87 - or above |
| Distinction |
3.64 - 3.86 |
| Honorable Mention |
3.50 - 3.63 |
Graduates with a Baccalaureate Degree will be awarded honors based on cumulative grade point averages as follows:
| Summa Cum Laude |
3.87 - or above |
| Magna Cum Laude |
3.64 - 3.86 |
| Cum Laude |
3.50 - 3.63 |
Graduates who complete exemplary portfolio and portfolio presentation will be enrolled in the Educated Citizen Honor Society.
Updated: July 2013
All programs at NMC require that satisfactory progression be made during the student's academic career. Students who experience difficulties are notified through the various mechanisms as described below. Unsatisfactory performance can have serious consequences for the student, both in relation to the program in which the student is enrolled as well as the student's standing at the College.
Each semester, the Registrar reviews the academic performance of all students at the College, and identifies students whose academic performance is unsatisfactory. The Registrar notifies students of changes to student status relative to the College by letter, sending copies of the letter to the Program Director, Advisor, Financial Aid Director, and Dean of Students.
Cohort Programs
Accelerated Nursing, Sonography, Radiography, Respiratory Care, Surgical Technology, and Physical Therapist Assistant are cohort programs, meaning that the programs are designed to be completed by the student in a lockstep fashion from beginning to end, according to a preset schedule. Satisfactory progression with the cohort is necessary to maintain one's position in the clinical portion of the program because of limited clinical availability.
When a student fails a professional course or professional course prerequisite in the Respiratory Care program, the student cannot progress in the program until the course is successfully repeated. Because most professional/technical courses are only offered once per year, students are advised that progression may be delayed by as much as one year. Furthermore, when a student is unable to progress with their cohort, they forfeit their clinical position. Therefore, enrollment in subsequent clinical courses will be determined by clinical space availability. Refer to the specific program handbook for additional related policies.
If a student enrolled in the Sonography, Surgical Technology, Radiologic Technology or Physical Therapist Assistant program fails to progress within the professional curriculum (including all pre-requisite courses), the student will be dismissed from the program and will be eligible to apply for readmission into a subsequent cohort, but readmission is not guaranteed. Exceptions based on extenuating circumstances will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
If an accelerated nursing student fails to progress within the professional curriculum, the student may be eligible to apply to transfer to the traditional nursing program, but admission is not guaranteed.
Competency Assurance Following Absence
When a student returns to the College after being on a leave of absence, or following a disruption in academic progression within the professional/technical portion of their program, the student must contact the Academic Advisor who will work with the student and Program Director on a registration plan to ensure the student has the knowledge, competency and skills needed to resume professional course work within the student's program. The plan may include assessments, skills checks, reviews and/or bridge course work to ensure that their knowledge and skills in the technical/professional courses are current and proficient.
Academic Probation
Undergraduate Students: All students are expected to maintain satisfactory academic progress while enrolled at the College. Academic progress is considered unsatisfactory if the student fails to maintain at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA, or if the student earns a GPA of less than 2.0 while enrolled in at least six credit hours in any given semester. Students who have unsatisfactory academic progress are placed on academic probation. When a student is placed on academic probation, an Academic Development Plan will be established. Refer to Academic Development Plan policy.
Academic Suspension
Undergraduate Students: A student will be suspended if placed on academic probation for two consecutive semesters, if placed on academic probation three or more times or if an unsatisfactory grade (below "C") is received in the same course twice. Individual programs may also have additional circumstances that warrant suspension and are valid as approved by the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Upon suspension, a student is required to meet with his or her advisor and initiate an Academic Development Plan as dictated in the section below.
The length of suspension will be determined by the Academic Dean after consultation with the student's advisor and Program Director. Reinstatement to the College after suspension is not automatic. After the time of suspension has elapsed, the student may request reinstatement to the College. The request must be in writing directed to the Council of Academic Deans and will be accompanied by evidence of completion of the Academic Development Plan. To maximize the chance of reinstatement the student should strictly adhere to the Academic Development Plan, although completion of the plan is not the sole determinant of reinstatement. The Council will forward a recommendation to the VPAA for final decision.
If a student feels that extenuating circumstances contributed to the suspension, the student may appeal the suspension to the Council of Academic Deans. The student must submit a written appeal to the members of the Council of Academic Deans within thirty days from the date of suspension and should include any supporting evidence as well as a detailed plan for academic improvement. The decision of the Council is final.
Academic Dismissal
A student may be dismissed from a program and/or the College as separate actions.
Dismissal (from the College) is considered a permanent action, although appeals for readmission in exceptional circumstances will be considered. Upon dismissal, all official ties to the college are terminated, including email, ID card access, and access to campus spaces. Former students wishing to access campus personnel or spaces must check in with the front desk before doing so to obtain proper permission.
A student who is dismissed from a program should refer to the Program Student Handbook and meet with the Retention Specialist to explore viable alternatives at the College.
Certificate and Undergraduate Students: Students suspended more than once will be dismissed from the College.
Graduate Students in the MBH, MOT, MSN, DNP and Wellness & Health Promotion Management Programs: Receipt of a second course grade below "B" will result in dismissal from the College. If a student feels that extenuating circumstances contributed to the second course failure/dismissal, the student may appeal the terms of dismissal to the Council of Academic Deans and request reinstatement. The student must submit a written appeal to the members of the Council of Academic Deans within thirty (30) days from the date of dismissal and should include any supporting evidence as well as a detailed plan for academic improvement. The Council of Academic Deans will forward a recommendation to the VPAA for a final decision.
Graduate Students in the Healthcare Operations Management Program: Graduate students enrolled in the Healthcare Operations Management Program may not receive more than two final course grades below "B" during their enrollment in an NMC graduate program. A third unsatisfactory grade (below "B") will result in dismissal from the College. If a student feels that extenuating circumstances contributed to the third course failure/dismissal, the student may appeal the terms of dismissal to the Council of Academic Deans and request reinstatement. The student must submit a written appeal to the members of the Council of Academic Deans within thirty (30) days from the date of dismissal and should include any supporting evidence as well as a detailed plan for academic improvement. The Council of Academic Deans will forward a recommendation to the VPAA for a final decision.
Updated: May 2017
Students are expected to be prompt and attend all classes and clinical/practicum experiences in their entirety. Instructor expectations for attendance will be made available to the students in writing via the course syllabus during the first week of class. Extenuating circumstances will be dealt with on an individual basis.
Online Course Participation Policy
Regular and substantive interaction between students and faculty in distance education programs is required by the US Department of Education.
Student eligibility for financial aid will be based on the above criteria. Financial aid recipients should review the financial aid policies related to Refunds & Withdrawals, Treatment of Aid When a Student Withdraws, and the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy for further information on the consequences of dropping/withdrawing from a course or failing to initiate or maintain participation in a course.
On-Ground Students Procedure
The SAP policies meet the federal regulatory requirements specified in 34 CFR 668.34, and the same policies are used to determine state grant eligibility. The faculty will address all non-attendance with the student and complete a Maxient incident report form that will be sent to Dean of Students and Financial Aid.
Online Students Procedure
NMC has adopted a policy for online course participation & attendance (see above).
Updated: February 2016
The purpose of this policy is to assure the safety and well-being of patients, students, faculty and staff in the clinical and academic environments and to attest to clinical agencies the students' eligibility to participate in clinical activities. This policy applies to all undergraduate and graduate students, on-ground or online, enrolled in a program of study that has a clinical component. Read the full policy by clicking on the link below.
Updated: July 2013
Background InvestigationGrading Policy
To ensure consistent awarding of course grades throughout the College, the grading system is as follows:
| Symbol | Quality Points | Percentages |
| A+ | 4.0 | 96-100 |
| A | 4.0 | 90-95 |
| B+ | 3.5 | 86-89 |
| B | 3.0 | 80-85 |
| C+ | 2.5 | 76-79 |
| C | 2.0 | 70-75 |
| D | 1.0 | 60-69 |
| F | 0.0 | <60 |
| WF | 0.0 (withdrawal after deadline) | |
| CR | Credit | * |
| NC | No Credit | * |
| S | Satisfactory (must be equivalent to a grade "C" or better) | * |
| U | Unsatisfactory | * |
| I | Incomplete | * |
| AU | Audit | * |
| W | Withdrew | * |
| WIP | Work in Progress | * |
| WX | Administrative/Medical Withdrawal | * |
*Not used in calculating grade point averages.
Every undergraduate course uses the "70" mark as the minimum grade required for passing the course as a whole. However, certain assignments within a course may carry additional requirements that are more stringent (e.g., a required minimum '75' on all tests), and are determined at the discretion of the instructor. Students must meet all requirements of the course at the level determined by the instructor in order to successfully complete the course.
Certificate and Undergraduate Students: A grade of unsatisfactory or a letter grade less than "C-" in any course is unacceptable and must be repeated. See specific course grading policies in program handbooks.
Graduate Students: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required for graduation. A grade below "B" in any course triggers an automatic progression review by the program. A student receiving a course grade of "C" for the first time will receive credit for the course*. A grade below "B" in two courses is unacceptable and results in dismissal from the college. All required coursework for a Master's degree must be completed within six calendar years from the program matriculation date.
*In the MSN program, any grade below "B" for NRS 523, NRS 524, NRS 558, NRS 559, NRS 568, NRS 569, NRS 592, or NRS 594 is unacceptable, and results in the student having to retake the course.
Cumulative Grade Point Average
Cumulative grade point average (CGPA) is computed based on final course grades. The CGPA is not affected by "S", "U", "AU", "CR", "NC", "NR", "I", "W", "WX". When a student repeats a course, the better grade will be computed in the CGPA. Both grades will appear on the official transcript. Each letter grade equals the quality points per credit hour as shown above.
| AU = Audit |
CR = Credit |
I = Incomplete |
NC = No Credit |
NR = Not Reported |
| S = Satisfactory |
U = Unsatisfactory |
W = Withdrew |
WX = Administrative/Medical Withdrawal |
|
The Registrar will compute the cumulative grade point average (CGPA) based on quality points and credit hours earned for courses completed after matriculation to this campus. Only courses in which quality points are assigned are computed in the CGPA. The CGPA is computed by dividing total quality points earned by total credit hours attempted in didactic class work.
Course Incomplete
An "I" is given to a student who has substantially completed a course, but who as a result of serious illness or other justifiable cause cannot complete all requirements of the course by the end of the term. The "I" is not granted to a student who has been excessively absent during the term or who has simply failed to complete the work of the course before the end of the term without an exceptionally good reason. The student faced with extenuating circumstances that prevents satisfying course requirements according to the established schedule must contact the faculty in the course. The faculty reviews the situation and agrees or disagrees with the student request. If a faculty member agrees, the student and the faculty member will complete and endorse an Incomplete Approval Form (available from the Registrar) detailing the requirements and plan for completion of the course. This agreement will specify the final grade to be assigned if course work is not completed by the deadline specified. The faculty member will forward the agreement to the appropriate Academic Dean for final approval. Upon approval, the faculty member will provide the student and Registrar with a copy of the Incomplete Approval Form.
The responsibility for completing all coursework rests with the student. The maximum time allowed for clearing a grade of "I" is one year from the START of the course. If, after one year, the student has not completed the necessary requirements to finish the course, the instructor will assign the final grade as agreed to in the Incomplete Approval Form. The student must be passing the course at the time of the request for the incomplete. Completion of the course material should be done within a month of the last day of class if at all possible. When the course is completed, a Change of Grade Notice must be filed.
Change of Course Grade
A permanently recorded grade may be changed by the person(s) who assigned it or, in case of change of personnel, by the appropriate Academic Dean.
If a student believes a grade is recorded incorrectly, it is the responsibility of the student to notify the course faculty within 30 days of receipt of the grade report from the Registrar. If a change in personnel has occurred, the appropriate Academic Dean is to be contacted. Evidence should be reviewed. If a grade change is indicated, a Change of Grade Notice is initiated by the faculty member, forwarded for appropriate signatures and then entered in the student's permanent record by the Registrar. The Registrar replaces the course grade with the corrected grade.
Repeating Courses
When certificate or undergraduate students have an unsuccessful academic experience resulting in a final course grade of "D" or "F," students may be allowed to repeat the course depending on the progression policy of the program. However, the initial grade remains on the official transcript. If a student is granted special permission to repeat a course at an institution other than NMC, that course repeat will be calculated into the student's semester grade point average and cumulative grade point average, and probation/suspension/dismissal policies will apply if the student is not successful. The student is responsible for having official transcripts forwarded to the Registrar within thirty (30) days of course completion. Graduate students should refer to "Grading Policy."
When a course is failed, the student must meet with his/her Academic Advisor to facilitate a written Academic Development Plan. The Academic Advisor will consult with faculty and Student Services personnel as appropriate. Refer to the Academic Development Plan Policy below.
The plan must be implemented prior to the student's re-enrollment in the course. Re-enrollment in the course is on a space-available basis and the student must wait until general registration to register for the course to be repeated.
Academic Development Plan
The academic advisor will contact the student to initiate the Academic Development Plan (ADP) for any student who fails a course or is placed on academic probation. Students placed on academic suspension are required to initiate the creation of the ADP by contacting their academic advisor. Failure to maintain an active ADP once it is established may negatively impact financial and/ or result in dismissal from the college.
The academic advisor or appropriate college personnel will facilitate the development of the ADP and may consult with faculty, college personnel or agents of the college (such as clinical instructors/preceptors). Copies of the ADP will be provided to the student, the academic advisor and the program director, and will be placed in the student's academic advising file. Each student's ADP will be reevaluated according to the timetable established in the plan at a minimum, but also as needed based on student needs or changes in performance. The Financial Aid Office will be notified of student failure to meet the terms of the ADP in the established time frame who will notify the student of any changes to their financial aid status. In addition, students may end up on financial aid suspension due to withdrawing from courses rather than failing them. If students choose to appeal financial aid suspension, they must contact their academic advisor to initiate the ADP. The ADP must be submitted with the letter of appeal for consideration of reinstatement of financial aid.
Updated: July 2015
Rationale:
The Department of Education requires that all institutions comply with the definition of the credit hour as provided in section 34 CFR 600.2 (11/1/2010), which defines the credit hour as:
A credit hour is an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than:
(1) One hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work each week for approximately fifteen weeks for one semester or trimester hour of credit, or ten to twelve weeks for one quarter hour of credit, or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time;
(2) At least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph (1) of this definition for other academic activities as established by the institution, including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.
Compliance Statement:
To comply with 34 CFR 600.2 definition of credit hour, the College, with the foundation of the "Carnegie Unit", calculates credit hour as demonstrated in Table 1 below. While the length of a course may vary, the Carnegie definition is used to calculate the equivalency. Thus, a unit of credit equates to a minimum of three hours of student work per week (1 hour lecture plus 2 hours of homework) for 15 weeks. In certain circumstances, it is possible to have more hours, but not less. A unit of credit equates to 3 hours of lab. Clinical hours are based on programmatic accreditation standards.
Table 1
|
Course Type |
Unit Value (Cr. Hr.) |
Lecture Hours per Week |
Student Homework Hours per Week |
Totals for Course Design |
|
|
Lecture |
1 |
1 hour in class |
2 hours homework |
3 hours minimum/week |
45 hours |
|
Lecture |
2 |
2 hours in class |
4 hours homework |
6 hours minimum/week |
90 hours |
|
Lecture |
3 |
3 hours in class |
6 hours homework |
9 hours minimum/week |
135 hours |
Alternative Format Courses
Lecture Courses:
Alternative format lecture courses are prorated so they contain the same number of hours as if the course were scheduled for a full 15 weeks. Table 2 below provides examples of calculated credit hours for alternative format lecture courses in accordance with the compliance statement above irrespective of whether a course is delivered on-ground, hybrid, or online.
Laboratory Courses:
For laboratory courses, one unit value is equal to 4.5 contact hours minimum per laboratory course. However, contact in labs may vary where pre-lab and assigned projects/experiments happen outside of the scheduled lab time. Table 3 below provides examples of calculated credit hours for laboratory courses.
Clinical or Fieldwork Experiences:
Clinical or fieldwork hours are based on programmatic accreditation standards.
Table 2
|
NMC Course Type |
Unit Value (Cr. Hr.) |
Carnegie Totals(Min. Contact Hrs. per Course) |
15 Week Course(Min. Contact Hrs. per Week) |
10 Week Course(Min. Contact Hrs. per Week) |
8 Week Course(Min. Contact Hrs. per Week) |
5 Week Course(Min. Contact Hrs. per Week) |
4 Week Course(Min. Contact Hrs. per Week) |
|
Lecture |
1 |
45 |
3 |
4.5 |
5.6 |
9 |
11.25 |
|
Lecture |
2 |
90 |
6 |
9 |
11.3 |
18 |
22.5 |
|
Lecture |
3 |
135 |
9 |
13.5 |
16.9 |
27 |
33.75 |
Table 3
|
NMC Course Type |
Unit Value(Cr. Hr.) |
Carnegie Totals (Min. Contact Hrs. per Course) |
15 Week Course(Min. Contact Hrs. per Week) |
10 Week Course(Min. Contact Hrs. per Week) |
8 Week Course(Min. Contact Hrs. per Week) |
5 Week Course(Min. Contact Hrs. per week) |
|
Lab |
1 |
67.5 |
4.5 |
6.75 |
8.44 |
13.5 |
|
Lab |
2 |
135 |
9 |
13.5 |
16.9 |
27 |
|
Lab |
3 |
202.5 |
13.5 |
20.25 |
25.31 |
40.5 |
Updated: July 2017
Credit Hour Definition Policy (PDF Download)The purpose of this policy is to provide a safe working and learning environment for patients, students, clinical and institutional staff and property in the clinical programs of Nebraska Methodist College. Healthcare accreditation organizations mandate that hospitals and other healthcare agencies require students who participate in the care of patients be subject to the same standards as their employees. Accordingly, submitting a negative urine drug screen is a condition for participation in the clinical component of all programs.
Applicability and timing
For all programs, submitting a negative drug screen will be a requirement prior to the start of clinical courses. Testing is done through the NMC Campus Health Center. Repeat testing may also be required for cause or to retest a dilute sample. Failure of the drug test, tampering or attempting to tamper with a specimen, or refusal to cooperate with any aspect of this policy, or any health system policy on substance abuse, will result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal, refusal of enrollment or denial of clinical course progression.
Cost
The student shall be responsible for paying any and all associated costs of urine drug screening including necessary retesting for any reason. Charges will be added to the students' account.
Use and care of information
Test results will be kept confidential with disclosure of results provided only to approved persons involved in evaluating qualifications for clinical programs. Because of the mandate to comply with health system policies, disciplinary actions against students may be imposed without the customary mechanisms of academic warning and probation. Any records generated by an adverse sanction levied against a student's will be considered College property, and will not be provided to the student unless requested.. All student drug screening records will be kept in confidential in Student Development Services for at least ten (10) years.
Updated: July 2013
NMC retains the exclusive right to judge academic proficiency and may decline to award any degree, certificate or other evidence of successful completion of a program, curriculum or course of study based thereupon. All College and Program requirements must be satisfied prior to commencement in order to participate in the ceremony.
Certificate Programs
Successful completion of Certificate Programs includes student compliance with program and College policies. Students must also satisfy all classroom, laboratory, clinical, and examination requirements. Students must also complete appropriate clinical requirements.
Undergraduate
Undergraduate study comprises two areas: arts and sciences and professional/technical education requirements. Students are expected to assume responsibility for understanding the requirements of the program and for seeking appropriate assistance to do so. Students must complete the arts and sciences and professional education requirements described in the program section of this catalog.
Students should expect to fulfill the requirements for the program under which the initial enrollment occurred. However, students taking longer than six (6) academic years to meet the requirements of a baccalaureate or three (3) academic years of an associate program of study may be required to meet curriculum changes and/or modifications regardless of the coursework previously completed.
Graduation is dependent upon a student attaining a "C" (2.0) minimum cumulative grade point average for the required course of study. A minimum grade of "C" (2.0) must be attained for each course. Additionally, the student must satisfactorily complete all requirements for the Student Portfolio Assessment in order to graduate.
The minimum credit hours required per program are as follows:
| Program AS Diagnostic Medical Sonography - Multispecialty AS Diagnostic Medical Sonography - Cardiovascular AS Health Studies AS Physical Therapist Assistant AS Radiologic Technology AS Respiratory Care AS Surgical Technology BSN Nursing BSN Accelerated Nursing BS Health Studies BS Healthcare Administration BS Respiratory Care BS Imaging Sciences BS Women's Medical Imaging |
Minimum Credit Hours 76 72 61 75 80 79 62 127 124 120 123 124 119 124 |
Graduate
The following graduation requirements apply to the NMC Master's Degree Programs:
| Program BSN-DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner APRN-DNP (Advanced Nursing Practice) MS Health Promotion Management MS Healthcare Operations Management MSN Nursing Master in Business Administration Post-Master's Certificate, Healthcare Operations Management Certificate, Wellness & Health Promotion |
Minimum Credit Hours |
Residency Requirement
Undergraduate students must complete 30 of the last 36 hours in residence to receive a baccalaureate degree.
Students must complete 15 of the last 18 credit hours in residence to receive an associate's degree. One exception to this policy is for those who graduated with a 12-month certificate from NMC and return to the College having not attended an institution of higher learning in between earning the certificate and returning to complete an associate of science degree in health studies. For these students, a minimum of 9 out of 21 arts and sciences credits must be taken at NMC.
Graduate students may transfer in a maximum of nine credits toward their master's degree.
Students in graduate-level certificate programs must complete the prescribed plan of study in residence to receive the certificate of completion for the program.
Doctorate students in the BSN-DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner) program may transfer in a maximum of 18 credits, and students in the APRN-DNP (Advanced Nursing Practice) program may transfer in a maximum of six credits.
Exceptions to the residency requirement can be made in extenuating circumstances but require the approval of the Academic Dean.
Graduation Application
All students (certificate and degree-seeking) must submit an application for graduation. This will initiate a degree audit to ensure that the student is on track to complete all required coursework. Graduation applications are due:
The Registrar's Office will audit the student's academic record to ensrue compliance with graduation requirements. If all degree requirements are not completed by the anticipated graduation date, the student must resubmit a graduation application in a later term.
Licensure and Certification
While the academic programs described herein are designed for the purpose of qualifying students for licensure, certification or registration in a profession, successful completion of any such program in no way assures licensure or certification by another agency. For specific programs, certification examinations are a program requirement for graduation. (See specific program handbooks.)
Updated: July 2015
Reason for Policy: To prohibit or limit recording of class activities or re-distribution of classroom materials in order to:
Policy Statement: Nebraska Methodist College prohibits recording and transmission of activities (e.g., lectures, discussions) that occur as part of a classroom session by a student unless written permission from the course instructor has been obtained and all students in the course as well as any guest speakers have been informed that audio/video recording may occur. A recording is defined as a video or audio replication or photographic image recorded on devices, including, but not limited to, audio recorders, video recorders, cellular phones, digital cameras, MP3 players, computers, tablets, and other handheld devices that records images and/or sound. If a student is granted permission to record any portion of a classroom session, that student understands that the recording is for the sole use of the individual student and may not be reproduced, sold, posted online, or otherwise distributed. A student does not have permission to reproduce or post the information on any social media (e.g., YouTube, FaceBook, etc), or other public or private forum that would infringe on the privacy rights of others represented in the recording.
Public distribution of such materials may constitute copyright infringement in violation of federal or state law, or College policy. Violation of this policy may subject a student to disciplinary action under the College's Student Code of Conduct and Resolution Process policies.
Exception: It is not a violation of this policy for a student determined by the College's Academic Skills Specialist to be entitled to educational accommodations, to exercise any rights protected under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the American with Disabilities Act of 1990, including needed recording or adaptations of classroom lectures. Qualified students with a disability should follow the College's Services for Students with Disabilities Policy. The restrictions on third party sharing and external distribution apply in such cases.
Destruction of Approved Recordings: Students must destroy recordings at the end of the semester in which they are enrolled in the class unless they receive the instructor's written permission to retain them or are entitled to retain them pursuant to authorized accommodations.
Procedures: A student should review the course syllabus for instructions regarding the instructor's policy on class recordings. Unless directly authorized by the syllabus, any student wanting to record a classroom session must discuss the request with the instructor and obtain written permission and inform others in the class that a recoding is being made.
Updated: July 2013
7/2016; 8/2017
To ensure a proper environment for learning for all NMC students.
Visitors in the Classroom PolicyFinancial aid funds are awarded under the assumption that the student will attend the entire period for which funds were awarded. When a student withdraws or otherwise ceases attendance before completing the entire payment period, s/he may no longer be eligible for the full amount of assistance that was originally awarded. This policy describes how NMC determines the amount of financial aid that was earned and unearned at the time the student ceased attendance.
The U.S. Department of Education requires that institutions participating in Title IV federal financial aid programs must have a fair and equitable refund policy. NMC's policy for refunding of tuition and housing charges is available online. The College's refund policy applies only to institutional charges and does not affect the amount of a student's earned or unearned financial aid. However, depending on the circumstances, refunds may be issued to the student or returned to federal financial aid programs in compliance with federal regulations. In many cases, financial aid must be returned to the respective programs even after the College's refund period has ended. This can result in the student having a new or larger balance owed to the College.
For the purpose of this policy a withdrawal occurs when a student:
The process to withdraw is outlined in the College Catalog. Students who cease attending but do not complete the official withdrawal process may be charged for a greater portion of the semester than the time he or she was actually in attendance. Therefore, it is always in the student's best interest to follow the official withdrawal process.
This date is critical in determining the student's charges and refunds, in addition to the amount of financial aid the student has earned.
For an official or unofficial withdrawal from modular courses, the withdrawal date is the last date of participation in the course, according to the online activity logs for the course.
For credit hour programs, the payment period is the term or semester (fall, spring or summer). For clock hour programs, the payment period is the period of time in which the student completes 50% of the clock hours and 50% of the weeks of instruction in the program.
Nebraska Methodist College & State Aid
For NMC scholarships or grants and the Nebraska Opportunity Grant, recipients will be allowed to keep the amount earned at the end of the first week of the term or payment period. However, the amount the student is allowed to keep will not exceed the amount of tuition, fees and other charges which NMC retains.
Federal Aid
Federal law specifies how the College must determine the amount of Title IV assistance a student has earned if he/she withdraws from school during a payment period or term. Title IV programs covered by this law are: Federal Pell Grants, Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants, Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans, Federal SEOG Grants, and Federal Perkins Loans. The amount of assistance that is earned is determined on a pro-rata basis. For example, if a student completed 30% of the payment period, s/he earned 30% of the assistance that s/he was originally scheduled to receive. Once at least 60% of the payment period is completed, the student is considered to have earned 100% of the funds scheduled to be received for that period.
A student who received less assistance than was earned may be eligible to receive those additional funds through a post-withdrawal disbursement. If that includes loan funds, NMC must obtain the borrower's permission before we can disburse those funds. A post-withdrawal disbursement of grant funds will be automatically credited toward any unpaid charges for tuition, fees and room.
In some cases, a student may have been awarded Title IV funds that he/she is no longer eligible to receive after the withdrawal. For example, if the student did not complete the Stafford Loan application process by the last date of attendance, the Financial Aid Office is unable to certify that loan and request funds.
If a student received more assistance than was earned, the excess funds must be returned by NMC and/or the student. It is possible that NMC charges once paid by federal financial aid may now become a debt that the student is responsible for paying.
If the amount of aid disbursed exceeds the amount of earned aid, the unearned portion of the funds must be returned to the Title IV programs from which the student received aid during the term, in the following order:
The school must return a portion of the excess equal to the lesser of:
If the total amount to be returned exceeds the amount that NMC is required to return, the student has an obligation to return the remaining amount. Any loan funds that must be returned by the student are repaid according to the terms of the promissory note. That is, the student makes scheduled payments to the holder of the loan over a period of time. If a repayment is due to a grant program, the maximum amount of grant funds to be repaid is half of the grant funds the student received or was scheduled to receive. No repayment is required if the original amount of grant overpayment is $50 or less.
Upon notification that a student has withdrawn, the Financial Aid Office will calculate the student's earned and unearned aid. The student will be notified of any funds returned by NMC to the respective financial aid programs, as well as any repayment for which the student is responsible. If the College is required to return funds that were used to pay the student's charges, NMC will bill the student for those charges that are no longer considered paid.
Students who owe a repayment to a federal grant will have 45 days from the date the school sent the notification to take one of the following actions.
If the student fails to take one of these actions within 45 days, the school is required to report the overpayment to the US Department of Education's Debt Resolution Services for collection, and the student will be ineligible to receive additional federal financial assistance.
Students dropping some or all of their courses at Nebraska Methodist College may be eligible to receive a refund of tuition and fees based on the following schedule. To obtain a refund, students must complete the 'Drop / Add' form available at the Registrar's Office. No refund will be given without a 'Drop / Add' form on record. Refunds due to a student who completes a withdrawal of all courses and has federal financial aid will first be applied to NMC's share of repayment of unearned federal aid (if any), then to the student's share of repayment of unearned federal aid (if any), then to the student. (See Treatment of Aid When a Student Withdraws Policy.)
Students withdrawing or taking a leave of absence must contact the College Financial Aid and Business Offices to make necessary financial arrangements. Students are responsible for all costs as determined by the refund policy. A week is defined as beginning on Monday and ending at the end of the day on Friday. If the term begins on a Monday and it is a holiday, the 5th day of the refund policy will be extended to the following Monday at 4:30 p.m. It is the responsibility of the students to complete and submit a Leave of Absence/Withdrawal Request Form.
Withdrawal or Withdrawal/Leave of Absence must be completed during business days Monday through Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
| Prior to and including | Refund to Student |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | 100% |
| Week 2 | 75% |
| Week 3 | 50% |
| Week 4 | 25% |
| Week 5 and after |
No Refund |
These will begin on Monday of the sub-term start dates.
| Prior to and including | Refund to Student |
|---|---|
| Day 1 - 5 | 100% |
| After day 5 | No Refund |
| Prior to the first day of class | Refund to Student |
|---|---|
| Phlebotomy, Sterile Processing Technician and Pharmacy Technician: | |
| 3 weeks or more prior to first day | 90% |
| 2 weeks to 6 days prior to first day | 80% |
| 5 days or less prior to first day | No Refund |
| Nursing Assistant and Medication Aide: | |
| 3 business days prior to first day | 100% |
| Prior to 3rd class meeting | 50% |
| After 3rd class meeeting | No Refund |
| RN Refresher | |
| No refunds once online access to the course has been granted. | |
The courses taken from other institutions through the Online Consortium of Independent Colleges and Universities (OCICU) will follow the same refund criteria as the courses taken at NMC.
For a refund of housing, see the latest campus housing handbook, found on the Student Housing page.
Please contact the Bookstore regarding the textbook return policy by email or call (402) 354-7240.
Military Tuition Assistance is a U.S. Department of Defense program. Tuition Assistance rules vary by branch of service and even vary between different units within the same branch depending on whether the unit is active, reserve, or National Guard. Tuition Assistance funds will be applied to tuition costs only.
Military Tuition Assistance Recipients
Military Tuition Assistance (TA) is awarded to a student under the assumption that the student will attend school for the entire period for which the assistance is awarded. When a student withdraws, the student may no longer be eligible for the full amount of TA funds originally awarded. To comply with the U.S. Department of Defense policy, NMC will return any unearned TA funds on a proportional basis through at least 60% portion of the period for which the funds were provided. If a service member stops attending due to a military service obligation, NMC will work with the affected service member to identify solutions that will not result in a student debt for the returned portion.
Withdrawals
A student's official withdrawal date is used as the last date of attendance and to calculate earned percentage of TA. A student's official withdrawal date is determined by using the last date of attendance that is documented and submitted to the Office of the Registrar.
Once the last date of attendance has been determined, NMC will recalculate a student's TA eligibility based on the following formula:
The amount of TA funding that is earned is determined on a pro-rata basis. For example, if a student completed 30% of the course, s/he earned 30% of the TA funds that s/he was originally scheduled to receive. The remainder of the unearned funds (70%) would be returned to the TA program. If this results in an unpaid tuition balance, payment would be the responsibility of the student. Once a student has attended at least 60% of the period for which TA funds were approved, the student is considered to have earned 100% of the TA funds.
Updated: March 2016
Behavior is recognized as a reflection of professional and personal integrity, which conveys to the community an image of the College and ultimately of healthcare professions. All policies apply to on campus and online students.
If you wish to report a Student Concern (SOS) or a potential Code of Conduct violation, please click here.
If you wish to file a Title IX Sexual Misconduct report, please click here.
As a student at Nebraska Methodist College, you have made a commitment to join the College community. Each student's enrollment obligates him or her to demonstrate civilized behaviors - those reflective of the College's core values and student policies. Behavior is recognized as a reflection of professional and personal integrity, which conveys to the community an image of the College and ultimately of health care professions.
As a health care professional, a Nebraska Methodist College ("College") student assumes responsibility for in the delivery of care for patients and others in the community. As stated in the College's mission, Nebraska Methodist College faculty and staff believe each student has a personal commitment and responsibility for understanding the potential impact of personal, as well as professional, behaviors upon others. Thus, adherence to College policies and regulations is required.
It is the responsibility and duty of each student to become acquainted with all provisions contained in the College Code of Conduct. It is presumed that each student, from the date of his/her initial acceptance at the College, has knowledge of this policy, as well as the policies and procedures contained in the program handbook for the program he/she is enrolled. All students are deemed to have agreed to the Code of Conduct and are required to adhere to the provisions contained in the Code of Conduct as a condition of enrollment at the College.
Any member of the College community may be subject to disciplinary action upon violation of this policy.
SECTION I: DEFINITIONS
SECTION II: SCOPE, LIMITATIONS, AND APPLICABILITY
The Code of Conduct policy applies to incidents occurring on College premises, at College sponsored activities, and as further explained below, to certain situations occurring off-campus that adversely affect the College community or pursuit of its objectives. Conduct that occurs while completing clinical rotation, practicum, internship, externship or other activity directly involved with an academic program of study is also subject to the Code of Conduct. Each student is responsible for his/her conduct from the time of application for admission through the actual awarding of a degree. This policy is in effect before, during and after classes during the academic year including conduct during periods between terms of actual enrollment not discovered until after a degree is awarded. Daily administration, enforcement, and operation of the Code of Conduct are coordinated through the Dean of Students.
This policy does not address Academic Integrity offenses. Academic Affairs administers the academic integrity disciplinary process. Students must contact the appropriate Academic Dean or Program Director for information on disciplinary procedures regarding academic integrity issues.
The Dean of Students shall decide whether the Code of Conduct shall be applied to conduct occurring off campus, on a case-by-case basis, at his/her sole discretion. After review of the alleged misconduct, the Dean of Students will make a determination of whether the alleged misconduct merits the disciplinary process provided herein. Disciplinary action may be taken with respect to any student convicted of, or charged with, a felony, or misdemeanor.
Depending on the severity or nature of the charge, a student who violates the Code of Conduct is subject to a range of disciplinary actions up to and including suspension or expulsion and may be barred from all College-owned and operated property and all College-sponsored events and activities. And too, any member of the College community, who knowingly and willfully misuses the procedures of the Code of Conduct to harm another member of the College Community, shall be subject to disciplinary action.
SECTION III: COOPERATION WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITIES
Nebraska Methodist College cooperates fully with law enforcement authorities and campus security works closely with area law enforcement agencies including the Omaha Police Department. Violations of the Code of Conduct that are also violations of federal or local law may be referred to the appropriate non-College authority. Proceedings under the Code of Conduct may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following civil or criminal proceedings off-campus at the discretion of the Dean of Students. Determinations or sanctions imposed under the Code of Conduct shall not be subject to change including instances where criminal charges arising out of the same facts as the Code violation were dismissed, reduced, or resolved in favor of or against the criminal law defendant.
SECTION IV: STUDENT RIGHTS, FREEDOMS, AND RESPONSIBILITIES
With appreciation for the tradition of freedom of expression on campus, the College is committed to fostering and tolerating different viewpoints. The College acknowledges that points of view will diverge, but will not tolerate disruption to its academic mission or rights of others.
1. General Rights and Freedoms
Students shall have the following rights and freedoms:
a. As members of the College community, all students are guaranteed freedom of expression, inquiry and assembly, the right to form a student government, organize groups, to join associations in support of any cause or common interest.
b. Students have the right of fair access to all educational opportunities and benefits available at the College in an environment that is safe and free of insidious harassment, discrimination, or intimidation.
c. Students have a right to privacy in accordance with the policy expressed in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA).
d. Students have the right and responsibility to report, in good faith, and without fear of retaliation, violations of the Code of Conduct and violations of any other policy of the College, to appropriate academic or administrative officers of the College.
2. Procedural Rights and Freedoms
Students accused of violating the Code of Conduct have the following rights:
a. To have access to all College policies and procedures regarding the functioning of the disciplinary process.
b. To be informed of and to have explained as required the pending charges.
c. To be free from intimidation or retaliation by College employees in the resolution of disciplinary matters.
d. To be free from searches or seizures unless based on reasonable cause by appropriate officials. In accordance with written procedures approved by the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Success (VPESS), searches and seizures may be authorized by the VPESS, his/her designee, and Campus Security.
3. Responsibilities
All students share the following responsibilities:
a. To read, become familiar with, and adhere to the Code of Conduct, the Program handbook of the program that the student is enrolled, the Title IX-Sexual Misconduct policy and Campus Housing Handbook, if living on-campus. Students will also be responsible for understanding all College policies posted on the College website.
b. To respect the personal and property rights of others and to act in a responsible manner.
c. To protect and foster the intellectual, academic, cultural, social, and mission of the College.
d. To observe the laws of local, state, and federal governments.
SECTION V: EMERGENCY ACTION SUSPENSIONS AND INVOLUNTARYADMINISTRATIVE TOTAL WITHDRAWALS
1. Emergency Action Suspension
On rare occasions, this authority may be exercised on an exigent basis to protect a student's own physical or emotional safety and well-being, College property, the health and safety of particular individuals and/or the College community, or to prevent the threat of disruption of, or interference with, the normal operations of the College. On such occasions, the Dean of Students, VPESS or VPAA may take emergency administrative action to immediately suspend a student's enrollment. The student will be notified in writing of this action and the reasons for the suspension. An Emergency Action Suspension Meeting will be held as soon as one can be convened, within thirty (30) days from notification of action. The purpose of this meeting will be to determine if the student may remain enrolled.
2. Involuntary Administrative Total Withdrawals
In situations where the College cannot effectively monitor or control the conditions or behaviors of certain students, it reserves the right to prompt an Involuntary Administrative Total Withdrawal. In circumstances where the mental, emotional and/or physical welfare of the student and various elements of the College community are in jeopardy, or where the student's behavior and conduct become an imminent danger to the student and others, it may become necessary to take emergency action to temporarily or permanently separate a student from the campus community. Further, the College reserves the right to contact the student's parent, guardian, or next of kin in the event of a medical emergency. The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) provides for the release of normally protected student information when it is believed that the student represents a health or safety risk to self or others.
This policy will be instituted in the event that a student:
a. Demonstrates behaviors or lack of good judgment, suicidal behaviors, self-destructive behaviors, or has untreated or uncontrollable medical or mental conditions which result in actual or possible imminent danger of injury to themselves or members of the College community.
b. Demonstrates an inability to satisfy personal needs, to include activities of daily living, nourishment and maintenance of shelter.
c. Demonstrates a behavior due to mental, emotional, or medical incapacitation which poses an imminent danger of causing significant property damage, or directly and substantially impedes the lawful activities of others, interferes with the educational process or the orderly operation of the College.
d. Fails to comply with the instructions and guidelines of the Student Development Services staff or Campus Health as a result of an episode of mental or medical crisis intervention.
During the period of involuntary administrative total withdrawal, a student may be denied access to the campus, classes, housing, College activities, and denied privileges for which the student might otherwise be eligible, as the Dean of Students, VPESS, or VPAA, may determine to be appropriate. In making this determination, the Dean of Students, VPESS, or VPAA will consult with appropriate academic administrators and health care professionals, including but not limited to the Student Development Services or Campus Health staff.
i. Timeline of Process
A meeting will be scheduled within thirty (30) calendar days of the student's Emergency Action Suspension or Involuntary Administrative Total Withdrawal, unless the student makes a written request asking that the meeting occur sooner. The Dean of Students will notify the student in writing indicating the reason for the Emergency Action Suspension or Involuntary Administrative Total Withdrawal, as well as the date, time, and place of the meeting. The student will be given an opportunity to respond. Appropriate College personnel may be present or consulted for this meeting. Parents, spouses, or any persons who would be of support to the student may, with the consent of the Dean of Students and the student, participate in the meeting.
The Dean of Students will notify the student in writing of the decision and the basis for the decision within ten (10) business days of the meeting. If it is determined that the student does not present a threat to himself/herself or others, the student will be permitted to continue as a student. If the decision is that the Emergency Action Suspension or Involuntary Administrative Total Withdrawal shall remain in effect, the communication will indicate what, if any, stipulations may govern his or her return to the College. Such stipulations may include providing certification from a healthcare professional indicating the student is able to return to the College.
ii. Appeal of Emergency Action Suspensions and/or Involuntary Administrative Total Withdrawal
Students who wish to appeal Emergency Action Suspensions and/or Involuntary Administrative Total Withdrawals shall submit their appeal to the Dean of Students, who will forward the appeal to the College President.
In those cases, where internal and/or external health professionals were consulted, a report of findings and response to the appeal will be obtained by the Dean of Students. In addition, the President and/or the Dean of Students may require the student, at his or her expense, to obtain a psychiatric/medical evaluation from appropriate professionals external to the College to be presented. The Director of Compliance may be consulted for legal advice before a final decision regarding the appeal of an emergency action is reached. There shall be no further appeal of this decision.
SECTION VI: EMERGENCY ACTION SUSPENSION OF STUDENTS CHARGED WITH A CRIMINAL ACT
A student charged with a crime, either a misdemeanor or felony, by any local, state, or federal entity may be recommended for an Emergency Action Suspension by a Program Director, Academic Dean, or the Dean of Students. In addition, disciplinary proceedings may be instituted against a student charged with conduct that potentially violates both the criminal law and the Code of Conduct without regard to the pendency of the civil or criminal litigation in court or criminal arrest and prosecution. Proceedings under the Code of Conduct may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following civil or criminal proceedings off-campus at the discretion of the Dean of Students. If criminal charges arising out of the same facts as a result of violation of College rules were dismissed, reduced, or resolved in favor of or against the criminal law defendant, the sanctions imposed under the Code of Conduct are not subject to change.
Emergency Action Suspension of a student charged with a criminal act will occur only in situations where the College determines there is a risk of substantial harm to the health or safety of the student or other individuals or to prevent the threat of disruption of, or interference with, the normal operations of the College. An individualized assessment will be made after consultation with the appropriate Program Director, Academic Dean, and Dean of Students, after considering the best available objective information.
It is the College's policy that a student convicted of a felony shall be expelled from the institution, irrespective of the student's current enrollment status. A decision about the continued enrollment of any student convicted of a misdemeanor will be made on a case-by-case basis which may be appealed through the VPESS.
SECTION VII: PROSCRIBED CONDUCT
The following is an illustrative list of proscribed conduct, including actual conduct and attempts to engage in such conduct, which is prohibited by the Code of Conduct. A reasonable suspicion that a student has engaged in or attempted to engage in such misconduct will be subject to the disciplinary sanctions.
1. Safety
Causing any condition that jeopardizes the safety of individuals, groups of individuals, or the College community; participating in conduct or behavior that explicitly endangers the safety and well-being of oneself or others; tampering with safety measures or devices, such as alarm systems, fire extinguishers, exit signs, emergency phone systems, smoke or heat detectors, fire hoses, security systems, locked exterior or interior doors, and sprinkler systems; failing to conform to safety regulations, such as falsely reporting an incident, failure to evacuate facilities in a timely fashion in emergency situations or in response to fire alarms, inappropriate use of the alarm system, and similar conduct; falsely reporting the presence or threat of a bomb or any other dangerous device or condition; having the knowledge of and not reporting an event or act that would potentially endanger members of the College community.
2. Weapons
Illegal or unauthorized possession, use, storage or transportation of weapons including firearms, explosives, ammunition, items that eject projectiles, knives, tear gas or dangerous chemicals or any item that any reasonable person would consider to have the possibility of doing bodily harm is prohibited.
3. Discrimination
Engaging in verbal or physical behavior directed at an individual or group based on national origin, race, creed, gender, religious beliefs, or sexual orientation that according to a person of reasonable sensibilities is likely to create an intimidating or demeaning environment that impedes the access of other students, faculty, and staff to the educational benefits available to them as a member of the College community. Wearing articles of clothing with derogatory, racist, discriminatory, patently offensive, profane, sexually explicit, or graphic messages either in words or pictures, which demonstrate bias or discrimination against any individual or group within the College community, is prohibited. See Title IX-Sexual Misconduct, Equal Opportunity/Non-Discrimination, and Harassment policies.
4. Harassment
Engaging in verbal, electronic, visual, written or physical behavior directed at an individual or group that in the view of a person of reasonable sensibilities is likely to provoke, or otherwise result in, a negative or injurious response, mental or emotional distress or related reaction or consequence is prohibited. This behavior may include: making an expressed or implied threat affecting another person's academic pursuits; engaging in unwarranted obstruction or interference with respect to educational, campus activity, or personal pursuits, employment or participation, which includes but is not limited to behaviors or communications which detract or interfere with an instructor's ability to provide instruction in the classroom, laboratory, clinical practicum, or any activity directly related to teaching, instruction or academic advisement and counseling, or any academic support services throughout the College community; creating an intimidating or demeaning situation or environment or inflicting personal, social, academic, psychological or emotional harm, or undue stress. See Harassment policy.
5. Sexual Harassment
See Title IX-Sexual Misconduct Policy.
6. Assault
Any willful attempt or threat to inflict injury upon another person, when coupled with an apparent present ability to do so, and any intentional display of force such as would give the victim reason to fear bodily harm constitutes an assault. An assault may be committed without actually touching or striking, or doing bodily harm. Self-defense may be a mitigating factor to this charge, depending on the circumstances.
7. Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse occurs when the act is intentional and is committed either by: physical force, violence, threat, or intimidation; ignoring the objections of another person; causing another's intoxication or impairment through the use of drugs or alcohol; taking advantage of another person's incapacitation, state of intimidation, helplessness, or other inability to consent.
8. Battery
An encounter in which physical contact occurs or is threatened between two or more persons with weapons, blows or other personal violence and that may include pushing, shoving, and other acts of physical abuse. Self-defense may be a mitigating factor to this charge, depending on the circumstance.
9.Stalking
Course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear. "Course of conduct" is defined as a pattern of actions composed of more than one act over a period of time, however short, evidencing a continuity of conduct. Stalking can either be physical or electronic in nature.
10. Hazing
Hazing is defined as an act, which endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student. It may include, but is not limited to, the destruction or removal of public or private property, or any activity conducted on or off-campus that causes or intends to cause an unreasonable expenditure of funds, embarrassing, intimidating or demeaning behavior, exposure to situations that could result in physical or emotional harm, or that causes undue stress, for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in any sanctioned or unsanctioned group or organization at the College.
11. Alcoholic Beverages
See Alcohol and Drug policy. See also Medical Amnesty policy.
12. Drugs/Controlled Substances
The College prohibits the possession, use, sale or distribution of illegal drugs or the improper use of controlled substances and enforces all local and federal laws that prohibit the possession or sale of illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia. In addition, under federal and local laws, any student convicted of a drug-related offense must be denied all federal assistance, including Pell Grants. Information about remaining eligibility for federal financial aid may be obtained from the Office of Financial Aid. The College has a "zero" tolerance policy on the improper use of controlled substances and expressly prohibits:
a. The possession, use, manufacturing, distribution or intent to distribute and/or sale of a controlled or illegal substance. Examples of these illegal substances are: crack cocaine, ecstasy, date rape drugs, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or any other narcotic or controlled substance except as expressly prohibited by law. See also Alcohol and Drug policy and Medical Amnesty policy.
b. The illegal possession, use, manufacturing, distribution or intent to distribute and/or sale of drug paraphernalia.
c. Aiding or abetting an individual or individuals who are in illegal possession, or who have an intent to use, sale, or to distribute or who use, sale, or distribute controlled substances or drug paraphernalia, including allowing persons involved in such activities to visit or stay in their apartment, or to be in any College owned or operated property over which they have control.
13. Forgery, Fraud, Dishonesty
Forging the name of a College employee, another student or any other person or entity, altering or misusing official College forms, documents, records, stored data, electronic data bases and College enterprise/information systems, identification of, or knowingly furnishing false information to College officers, officials, faculty and/or employees or providing such information involving or referring to the College to off-campus organizations, institutions, or individuals is prohibited. Making false statements in public or private, including knowingly filing false charges under the Code of Conduct and aiding and abetting another individual in the conduct of such actions also constitutes a violation of this provision. Students may not use the seal, logo(s), motto, trademarks, or other intellectual property of the College without written permission from the College. Authorized student organizations must be pre-approved to reproduce or to have a manufacturer reproduce the College trademarks on merchandise for sale or distribution.
14. Property Damage
The attempt of, or unauthorized removal, use of, or the defacing of College property, or property under College custody or control resulting in its destruction or damage is prohibited.
15. Theft
Attempted or actual theft of and/or damage to property or services of the College; knowingly possessing or transporting stolen property; or improperly using or converting the property of another for personal use is prohibited. The Code of Conduct also includes identity theft.
16. Unauthorized Entry, Use, or Trespassing
Entering or using College facilities or property, or property in the custody or control of the College, for an improper purpose, or without proper authorization, or assisting others in doing so violates the Code of Conduct.
17. Tobacco
Smoking any and all tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, or use of smokeless tobacco, are prohibited on campus. See Tobacco-Free Environment policy.
18. Disruptive Conduct
Acting in a manner that impairs, interferes with, or obstructs the orderly conduct, processes, or functions of the College or of any person or persons on College owned or operated property or at any College-sponsored event is in violation of the Code of Conduct. Students whose behavior, communications, or attire may be considered disruptive while participating in academic programs, College activities, programs and general operations. Behaviors would include: use of electronic devices such as cell phones, video games, personal music players, playing computer games during class sessions, laboratory or clinical practicum's and periods of academic instruction, remediation, or tutorial assistance. Disruptive conduct would also include the wearing of apparel or clothing in class, or during academic instruction that is lewd, profane or sexually explicit; attire that conveys messages in print or in picture form that are profane, vulgar, patently offensive, racist or discriminatory, and this conduct disrupts the instructor's ability to maintain decorum or provide academic instruction in the classroom, laboratory, or other instructional environments. This also includes students who engage in disruptive behaviors or communications with an instructor, such as swearing or cursing, which impedes the ability of the instructor to present academic information in the classroom or laboratory, conduct academic advisement, counseling, or tutorial assistance.
19. Unprofessional Conduct
All students are expected to demonstrate professional behavior in accordance with College policies and program specific policies.
20. Electronic Communication
Using College telecommunications, data communication networks or any electronic means owned and operated by the College for illegal or improper purposes or in violation of College regulations and policies, or related federal, state, or local laws.
21. Harboring
Harboring is knowingly allowing any fugitive from justice, or any student, employee, or other individual who has been barred from the College, to stay in, or to be transported onto College owned or operated property or facilities is prohibited. This also includes harboring any individual who is considered to be a fugitive from justice or for whom there is an outstanding warrant.
22. Contracts
Students as individuals or representatives of student organizations are prohibited from entering into verbal or written agreements or contracts that purport to bind, obligate, or create liability of any kind for Nebraska Methodist College. The College will hold all such students individually liable for any financial or legal consequences or damages that may result from such unauthorized actions.
23. Established Policies and Procedures
The failure to observe any provisions or policies in of the student's program handbook, campus housing handbook, the College website, or appropriate school/college bulletin, pertaining to personal conduct or behavior.
24. Violation of Criminal Codes of the Local, State, or Federal Governments
On or off-campus actions or activities that violate criminal law.
25. Embezzlement
Unauthorized acquisition and/or use of funds belonging to, or under the stewardship of, any College department, organization, or individual.
26. Contempt Of, Or Interference With, Any Disciplinary Program Actions or Activities
Failure to respect the disciplinary program or process, including failing to appear for a meeting if requested to do so, interfering with attendance by any person or persons mandated to attend a meeting or interfering with the disciplinary process violates the Code of Conduct.
27. Social Media
Students are required to follow the applicable federal requirements under HIPAA regulations, including information obtained about patients during clinical rotations and adhere to all applicable college privacy and confidentiality policies. See Confidentiality of Patient Records (HIPAA) policy.
28. Media Contact
Students are expressly prohibited from speaking on behalf of, or for, Nebraska Methodist College with any media organization or publication, or from inviting the same to any College-owned or operated property, facility, or event without the express permission of the College.
29. Presenting False Testimony
Knowingly making false statements regarding a disciplinary matter before, during or after the disciplinary adjudication process is in violation of the Code of Conduct.
SECTION VIII: RESOLUTION PROCESS
Reports of violations of the Code of Conduct may result from a written Incident Report taken by Campus Security, a College employee, or Complainant reporting a violation or by a complaint filed here. A Complainant may be a student, College employee, or visitor.
The purpose of the resolution process is to provide for an impartial review and to ensure that the rights of all students are properly recognized and protected. Such review will be accomplished in a collegial, non-judicial atmosphere rather than an adversarial one, and shall allow the parties involved to participate. All parties will be expected to act in a professional and civil manner. Academic and nonacademic decisions made by the College President or Vice Presidents are final and not subject to appeal.
1. Complaint
First, the Complainant must review the Code of Conduct to determine the specific provisions violated. Second, the Complainant must complete and submit a complaint here of an alleged violation of the Code of Conduct within fourteen (14) calendar days of the incident or knowledge of the incident. Requests submitted after this fourteen (14) calendar day period will only be resolved if extenuating circumstances are present and requires approval of the Dean of Students.
If the Dean of Students determinations a violation of the Code of Conduct may have occurred, the Complainant and the Respondent will be informed in writing by the Dean of Students within fifteen (15) business days after receipt of the request. The Dean of Students will inform the Respondent of the allegation and related information and a timeline to respond.
The Respondent will be given an opportunity to provide his/her account of the incident and allowed to plead "Responsible" or "Not Responsible." If the Respondent fails to respond within six (6) business days of the date of the written notice, the Dean of Students may proceed with scheduling and convening a hearing to resolve the matter.
A plea of "Not Responsible" by the Respondent will result in an investigation of the case by the Dean of Students. The Respondent and the Complainant will be notified of the date, time and place of the hearing.
A plea of "Responsible" by the Respondent will result in a review of the case and determination of appropriate sanctions by the Dean of Students.
2. Hearing Notification
Resolution of a violation of the Code of Conduct is handled through a hearing conducted by the Hearing Officer. The Hearing Officer shall be chosen by the Dean of Students from the pool of trained Title IX Investigators outside the Complainant or Respondent's program of study. If possible, conflicts of interest will be avoided. However, it remains the Complainant or Respondent's responsibility to notify the Dean of Students of such conflict not less than five (5) business days prior to the hearing so an alternative Hearing Officer may be selected.
a. Notification of Hearing
The Dean of Students shall notify the Complainant and Respondent, in writing, of the date, place and time of a scheduled hearing not less than ten (10) business days prior to the hearing date (excluding holidays). Both the Complainant and the Respondent shall be informed that they are responsible for contacting their own witnesses, informing them of the hearing, and ensuring their attendance at the hearing. Witness lists are to be submitted to the Dean of Students at least two (2) business days prior to the hearing. Upon request, the Dean of Students will make copies of the witness lists available to the parties. Upon request, the Dean of Students will notify respective faculty of the approved absence for any students who are participating in a disciplinary procedure.
b. Notification of Inability to Attend a Hearing
If either the Respondent or the Complainant cannot attend a scheduled hearing due to compelling circumstances, he/she must notify the Dean of Students as soon as this fact is known. Written documentation of extenuating circumstances must be provided. Failure to adhere to this policy may result in additional disciplinary action and/or conducting the proceeding without the benefit of the absent person's participation.
c. Document Access
The Respondent and Complainant shall have reasonable access to relevant case documents maintained by the Dean of Students. Documents prepared by the Dean of Students, those submitted during the hearing, and the statements given, will constitute the record the hearing.
d. Failure to Attend
A student accused of violating the Code of Conduct, who has received appropriate notification to attend a scheduled hearing but fails to do so, may be considered in violation of the disciplinary process and subject to further disciplinary action. The Hearing Officer may elect to proceed with the hearing without the Respondent and render a decision based on the evidence presented.
A witness, who is called by the Dean of Students, with evidence critical to the resolution of a violation of the Code of Conduct given reasonable notification of a hearing, but who refuses to attend, may be considered in violation of the disciplinary process and subject to possible disciplinary action.
e. Rules of Evidence and Legal Representation
Nebraska Methodist College's disciplinary proceedings are not subject to the formal rules of process, procedure, and/or technical rules of evidence, such as are applied in criminal or civil court. Rather, Hearing Officer shall make a determination based on whether the record makes it more likely than not that the claims are true.
The Respondent and the Complainant may consult with their personal legal counsel in preparation for a hearing; however, attorneys are not allowed to attend a disciplinary hearing or to represent a student at a hearing. A student may elect to have a peer advisor, at a hearing, who shall serve in an advisory capacity only. Advisors are not permitted to speak or to participate directly in the hearing. Peer advisors must be current students in good academic, disciplinary, and financial standing with the College.
f. Scope of Evidence Considered In a Disciplinary Action
The Hearing Officer shall be the sole judge of the relevancy and admissibility of evidence presented for consideration.
3. Process for Conducting the Hearing
a. Closed Hearings
All hearings are closed to anyone other than those persons directly involved, Dean of Students and/or the designee, the Complainant, Respondent, and witnesses, unless the Dean of Students determines otherwise.
b. Witnesses
Only those persons with direct knowledge of the incident shall be allowed to appear as witnesses. Those attesting to character alone are not allowed to serve as witnesses. A list of any witnesses speaking on behalf of the Respondent or Complainant must be submitted to the Dean of Students no later than two (2) business days prior to the hearing.
c. Postponement
A one-time request for postponement may be considered and granted by the Dean of Students only when he/she determines that there is a compelling reason for the delay. In that event, the Dean of Students will set a new date for the hearing and notify, in writing, all parties involved.
d. Role of the Hearing Officer
The Hearing Officer is responsible for conducting the hearing in a fair manner and recommending such action(s) as necessary to sanction or control disruptive or inappropriate behavior.
e. Burden of Proof
The Complainant carries the burden of proof to establish the Code of Conduct violation of the Respondent. The Complainant must demonstrate that it was "more likely than not" (preponderance of the evidence standard) that the Respondent committed the violation(s) that he/she is being accused. The Respondent should be prepared to respond to charges against him/her with witnesses and/or documents, as appropriate.
f. Deliberation, Decision Making, and Reporting Results to the Dean of Students
The Hearing Officer shall consider all information in the record. The Hearing Officer shall prepare a written report including any recommended sanctions and submit the report to the Dean of Students within five (5) business days of the hearing. The Dean of Students shall notify the Respondent and the Complainant of the decision. Sensitive information considered to determine sanctions shall be deemed confidential and will not be shared with students, except upon written request from any alleged victim of a crime of violence or non-forcible sex act will the results of the College's disciplinary proceedings against the Respondent will be disclosed.
4. Notification of Hearing Outcome
The Dean of Students shall review the recommendations of the Hearing Officer and shall make a final determination on sanctions. The Dean of Students shall then prepare a written memorandum setting forth the decision and any sanctions and notify both parties within twenty (20) business days after receipt of the report. The Dean of Students reserves the right to delay notification when it determines that such delay is in the best interest of the College. When deemed necessary or appropriate by the Dean of Students, it shall notify relevant College officials, programs and organizations of hearing outcomes and sanctions.
SECTION IX: APPEAL
1. Criteria for an Appeal
A finding of "Responsible" for violations of the Code of Conduct and/or the sanctions imposed may be appealed. However, an appeal may result in a reversal or modification of a decision only if one of the following criteria is met. It should be noted that an appeal is not an opportunity to have a new hearing on the matter. As described below, an appeal may only be used to reverse an error or to consider important information that was not available at the hearing.
a. Process - An important procedure leading up to or during the original hearing was ignored or so flawed that the hearing was not fair and impartial.
b. Substantive Error - There was an error in identifying or interpreting the controlling and relevant College policy or standard of conduct and this substantially affected the hearing and resulted in the Respondent being denied a fair hearing outcome.
c. New Evidence - Relevant new evidence has surfaced that could have materially affected the decision or finding of the Hearing Officer. This evidence must be produced and substantiated or documented and it is required that proof be provided that this information was not available at the time of the hearing.
d. Disproportionate Sanction - The sanction levied is manifestly unjust because it is overtly disproportionate to the offense.
2. Process for Filing an Appeal of Disciplinary Action
An appeal must be submitted to the Dean of Students by the student found "Responsible" within five (5) business days of receipt of the letter of notice of initial hearing outcome. The statement must clearly specify the grounds on which the appeal is being made and have attached any supporting documentation. Each case may be appealed only once.
3. Appeal Review Process
The written appeal must be submitted to the Dean of Students. The Dean of Students will forward the appeal to the VPESS. The VPESS shall have the authority to determine if the appeal could reasonably be expected to meet at least one of the four stated criteria. If so ruled, he/she will set up an appeal hearing and notify the parties of its date, time, and location.
If possible, conflicts of interest will be avoided. However, it remains the Complainant or Respondent's responsibility to notify the Dean of Students of such conflict not less than five (5) business days prior to the hearing. If after notification, the Dean of Students determines a conflict of interest exists between the VPESS, the Complainant and/or the Respondent, the Dean of Students will forward the appeal to the Executive Vice President, VPAA, or the President. The Executive Vice President, VPAA or the President shall then have the authority to determine if the appeal could reasonably be expected to meet one of the four stated criteria and administer the appeal hearing in place of the VPESS.
4. Appeal Hearing
Appeal hearings will be limited to a presentation of evidence by the appealing student that directly addresses the grounds for an appeal. No witnesses may be called.
5. Remedies on Appeal
The following actions may be taken by the VPESS, transmitting a recommendation to the Dean of Students:
a. Affirm the original findings.
b. Affirm the original findings, but change the sanction(s) levied.
c. Overturn the original findings and remand to the original Hearing Officer for a new hearing.
6. Notification of Finding
The results of an appeal review will be forwarded to the Dean of Students within twenty (20) business days of the VPESS's decision. Within five (5) business days, the Dean of Students will inform the student who initiated the appeal and the Complainant of the decision. If the case is remanded for a new hearing, the Dean of Students will contact the students about the new hearing. At the discretion of the Dean of Students, a different Hearing Officer may be asked to hear the case.
7. Limitations
Each case may be appealed only once. Therefore, the finding of the VPESS is final and binding. Only the Respondent may file an appeal. Appeals filed after the stated deadline will not be considered, except in compelling circumstances, as determined by the Dean of Students.
8. Stay of Sanction(s) During the Appeal Process
The Dean of Students will determine if the sanction(s) imposed on an appellant will be stayed pending the appeal process.
SECTION X: DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS
The purpose of disciplinary sanctions for violations of the Code of Conduct is to educate students about responsible behavior as members of the Nebraska Methodist College community, to maintain order, and to protect the rights of others. Students found "Responsible" for violating the Code of Conduct are notified of sanctions by the Dean of Students, who also monitors compliance with the sanction. There is no set sanction for any particular offense, with the exception of automatic expulsion for a felony conviction. Sanctions will be determined individually and should reflect the nature and severity of the offense.
1. General Terms
The College reserves the right to apply any sanction for a violation of the Code of Conduct that in its sole discretion appropriately addresses the gravity and frequency of the offense. One or more sanctions may be imposed for any offense. Prior offenses are cumulative and any student found in violation of the same offense or a second offense of equal or greater magnitude may be suspended or expelled from the College. However, evidence of prior violations of the Code of Conduct may be considered after a determination of "Responsible" has been made as part of the process of determining sanctions.
Sanctions are imposed under the Code of Conduct without regard to student classification, prospective graduation date, the time in the semester or term when the violation occurs, scholarship status, or any other factor.
Students who have not completely fulfilled their sanctions may be allowed to register for classes for the subsequent semester if all other financial and academic conditions have been met. However, their registration will be cancelled if they fail to comply with all the stipulations of the sanctions within the time limit set.
The imposition of sanctions is a record maintained in the office of the Dean of Students.
2. Types of Disciplinary Sanctions
One or more of the following sanctions may be imposed for any violation of the Code of Conduct. The failure to comply with an imposed sanction, as directed, can lead to the imposition of more severe sanctions, up to and including suspension or expulsion. The identified sanctions do not represent the full range of sanctions which may be imposed against a student found "Responsible" for a violation of the Code of Conduct.
a. Disciplinary Warning or Reprimand - A disciplinary warning or reprimand is an official written statement of censure. It is used when a student's behavior is unacceptable, but is considered to be minor and/or unintended. It includes a warning that any additional violation(s) of the Code of Conduct may result in more severe disciplinary actions. The written statement shall be delivered to the student via mail or the student's College e-mail account.
b. Letter of Apology to the Aggrieved Party - A student may be required to write a letter of apology to the aggrieved party. A draft copy of the letter must be provided to the Dean of Students for prior approval.
c. Requirement to Seek Counseling - This sanction may be imposed when a student is found "Responsible" for disrupting or uncivil behaviors. In such case, the student shall be required to provide evidence to the Dean of Students of attendance and completion of counseling by a qualified professional.
d. Participation In, or Conducting, Special Workshops, Classes or Seminars - A student may be required to participate in, or to develop, advertise and present special workshops or seminars related to a Code of Conduct violation. In such a case, the student may be required to present a typed summary of the activity to the Dean of Students.
e. Research Assignments - A student may be required to complete a research assignment on a topic related to the Code of Conduct violation within a specified deadline.
f. Community Service - A student may be required to perform work assignments at the College or in the local community.
g. Parent Consultation - Parent/guardian may be contacted when a student's behavior causes alarm, serious disruption, or is a health or safety concern.
h. Persona Non Gratis - Prohibiting entry into a specific building on campus for a specific amount of time due to interference with the community.
i. Termination of Residency - Loss of on-campus housing, without refund, and/or dining privileges, permanently or for a specified period of time.
j. Fine - A monetary sanction issued in the form of a charge to a student account or a deduction from the Residential Life and Housing damage deposit. Fines are most commonly issued for violations of life safety policies or failure to follow college procedures.
k. Withholding of an Official Transcript - May be imposed upon a student who fails to pay a debt to the College.
l. Delay in Awarding Degrees - The College reserves the right to delay the awarding of any degree.
m. Bar Against Re-Enrollment - May be imposed on a student who has a disciplinary case pending or who fails to pay a debt to the College.
n. Restitution - Restitution is reimbursement to compensate for personal injury, property damage, or misappropriation of College or other personal property. It may be in the form of money or services, subject to the discretion of the Dean of Students.
o. Disciplinary Probation - Disciplinary probation may be imposed for a specified period of time. A student may not represent the College in any public function, participate in clinical rotations or hold office in a student organization. Notification of disciplinary probation may be provided to the parents of the student if the College first receives the student's written consent or a FERPA exception applies. Students receiving scholarships for any activities enumerated above may have that scholarship suspended or terminated. Decisions regarding scholarships will be made by the VPESS.
p. Limited Term Suspension - Suspension is appropriate in cases of serious misconduct or in cases when a student has violated a condition of disciplinary probation, or has failed to meet the stipulations of lesser sanctions. A student may be suspended from the College for the remainder of the semester, or summer session, in which the sanction is applied, or any portion thereof, for the next semester, or for any other additional periods determined appropriate by the College. Suspensions are recorded on the student's permanent record (official transcript). Students suspended from the College are required to return their student identification cards, apartment keys and other College property and shall be barred from the campus for the duration of their suspension. Exceptions may be granted to this prohibition by the Dean of Students, if it is determined that the barred student must enter College property for the purpose of conducting official business. If a student returns to the campus without permission during the period of suspension, his or her eligibility to be re-admitted to Nebraska Methodist College is jeopardized and such persons may also be charged with unlawful entry and, thereby, made subject to arrest.
q. Indefinite Suspension - Indefinite Suspension provides for all conditions described in Limited Term Suspensions, but does not give a specific date for the consideration of readmission of the suspended student. This sanction is used in cases of extremely serious misconduct when evidence of rehabilitation must be presented by the student and accepted by the VPAA before the student is readmitted to the College.
r. Expulsion - Expulsion is the most severe sanction that the College may impose. Expulsion is permanent dismissal from the College. In addition, the student is not eligible for readmission to the College and permanently barred from Nebraska Methodist College owned or operated property and from all College-sponsored events. Students expelled from the College are required to return any student identification cards, apartment keys, and other College property and must leave campus immediately upon notification of being expelled. If an expelled student returns to the campus, he or she will be charged with unlawful entry and may be arrested. An expelled student's relationship with the College is severed permanently.
s. Other sanctions as deemed appropriate by the Hearing Officer.
SECTION XI: REVISIONS OF THE COLLEGE CODE OF CONDUCT
1. Periodic Review
The Dean of Students will conduct a full formal review of the Code of Conduct at least every five (5) years or at such other times as it deems appropriate to determine if the College Code of Conduct should undergo a full revision process.
2. Procedure for Revision
If it is determined that the Code of Conduct is in need of full revision, the procedure for developing a new document for recommendation will be as follows:
a. A committee composed of faculty, administrative staff and students will be appointed by the Dean of Students to review the recommendations for changes. The pool of those eligible to serve will come from names submitted by Academic Deans, Program Directors, Faculty Senate, and Student Government. In the event that after appropriate notice, names are not submitted, the Dean of Students shall make appointments.
b. The draft of the revised Code of Conduct is completed by the Dean of Students and forwarded to the Director of Education Compliance for review and comment.
c. Students will be informed of the revisions via email. Comments and concerns will be considered in completing the final draft.
3. Forwarding for Approval
The final document will be authored by the Dean of Students and forwarded, through the Director of Education Compliance to the President and Cabinet for final review.
4. Amendments
Amendments to the Code of Conduct deemed necessary by the Dean of Students during periods between formal full reviews and revisions will be prepared by the Dean of Students and forwarded to the Director of Education Compliance and Cabinet for approval and implementation.
Updated: October 2015
College Code of Conduct PDFIndividuals found to be in violation of various rules and regulations may be subject to disciplinary sanctions. It is the belief of the College that sanctions should maximize safety for all students and College constituents, relate to the nature of the behavior, and provide an opportunity for growth and learning. Thus, these examples are not meant to represent the only sanctions that may be used by the College.
Reprimand: A written warning to a student for a violation of College policy. The warning shall include notice that further violations of the same or other regulations will result in a more severe disciplinary sanction. A copy of the warning letter is placed in the student's academic file.
Apology: A required formal apology, given either verbally or in writing (as designated by the sanction), either private or public, to an individual, outside agency, or the College. Evidence of the offering of the apology may be required.
Restitution: In the event of damage, destruction, or theft, a student may be required to make a full and complete reimbursement to the College or others. Restitution for College property, damage, or theft may take the form of financial payment, appropriate service, or other compensation. Failure to make arrangements to pay may result in a hold being placed on the student's NMC account.
Monetary Fine: The student is required to pay a specific monetary fine to the College. Failure to pay or to make arrangements to pay such fines may result in a hold being placed on the student's NMC account.
Work Project: The student is assigned a specific work or service project, as outlined in a work agreement. This sanction will normally be assigned to help the student reflect upon the negative implications of his/her behavior.
Disciplinary Warning: This sanction is administered to serve as a notice to the student that his/her behavior was unacceptable and inconsistent with the College's values and standards of behavior. The Warning will note that any future violations of the policy could result in the imposition of more severe sanctions. In some cases, it may be the preliminary step to Disciplinary Probation. This sanction may also involve specific conditions that may include, but are not limited to:
If a student is found responsible for a violation of the College's Title IX-Sexual Misconduct Policy, a Disciplinary Warning could also include one or more of the following:
Disciplinary Probation: This sanction may involve specified conditions that may include, but are not limited to:
Disciplinary Probation can also carry other sanctions imposed by certain campus organizations and academic departments. For example, a student on Disciplinary Probation may be ineligible to hold positions in Student Senate, participate in clinical rotation, or hold positions on the student housing staff. Any such sanctions are considered independently by those organizations or departments and may be imposed in addition to the sanctions identified above. Notification of Disciplinary Probation may be sent to a minor student's parents, subject to regulations governing a student's right to privacy.
Suspension: Suspension from classes and/or the College property may occur for a period of up to one (1) regular semester. A student wishing to re-enroll at the end of the suspension period must notify the Vice President of Enrollment and Student Success in writing six (6) weeks prior to the start of the semester.
Dismissal: Dismissal constitutes expulsion from the College. Students who have been dismissed are not eligible for return or reapplication.
Required Assessment and/or Counseling: In the event a student's conduct creates safety concerns and/or violates the NMC Code of Conduct Policy, he or she may be required to receive counseling, not necessarily as a disciplinary measure, but as an attempt to facilitate growth and/or safety. The student's conduct will be individually evaluated based on observations of his or her actions that indicate safety concerns or violations of the Code of Conduct. Following this individual assessment, College, at its discretion, will determine whether the student will be required to obtain treatment or evaluation from a qualified healthcare professional. Based on the results of the student's assessment, the College, using careful judgment, will determine whether the student is otherwise qualified to take classes.
Before the College concludes that the student's conduct merits suspension or other appropriate disciplinary measures, student will be provided with a forum in which he or she will be given a reasonable opportunity to be heard and respond. However, in exigent circumstances, the College may take immediate measures to dismiss or withdraw the student. Any decision to suspend or withdraw a student will be made by the Vice President of Enrollment and Student Success or the Vice President of Academic Affairs and the College President. If the College takes immediate action to dismiss or withdraw the student, the student will be given the opportunity at a reasonable time afterwards to be heard and to present his or her position.
Updated: August 2015
Guidelines for Disciplinary Procedures PDFA student may be assigned to a situation that may pose an ethical dilemma for them. The student who objects to providing care for assigned patients based on matters of conscience will notify the instructor as soon as possible. The student will remain aware that their first responsibility is to the patient, and that they should complete the necessary care to meet the immediate needs of the patient. The student shall not abandon the patient. The faculty will attempt to provide individual guidance to the student in the immediate situation.
Updated: November 2015
The relationships between students and their teachers, advisors, and others holding positions of authority over them should be conducted in a manner that avoids potential conflicts of interest, exploitation, or personal bias. Given the inherent power differential, the possibility of intentional or unintentional abuse of that power should always be borne in mind. For example, a conflict of interest arises when an individual evaluates the work or performance of a person with whom he or she is engaged in a romantic or sexual relationship. In addition, relationships between students and others holding positions of authority can also lead to possible Title IX sexual harassment claims.
Romantic or sexual relationships between students and persons in positions of authority compromise the relationship between students and the College. No member of the College community should simultaneously be romantically or sexually involved with a student whom he or she teaches, advises, coaches, or supervises in any way. Individuals in such positions of authority must not allow these relationships to develop or continue.
Updated: November 2015
7/2013; 7/2015; 9/2017
Title IX-Sexual Misconduct Policy
To communicate the College's programs and resources available concerning sexual harassment/assault prevention.
Sexual Harassment/Assault Prevention Programs and Resources10/13; 11/13; 9/14; 2/15; 10/15; 4/16; 9/17
Minors Involved in NMC Programs; College Code of Conduct
To provide the NMC community (faculty, staff, administrators and students) and members of the public visiting a work place and educational environment free of harassment, interference and intimidation, NMC has adopted and published the following policy and grievance procedures for complaints under Title IX.
Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) strives to create a respectful, safe and non-threatening environment for its students, faculty, staff, administrators and visitors. This policy sets forth the resources available to students, describes prohibited conduct and establishes procedures for responding to sexual misconduct incidents that includes sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking and other unwelcome behaviors.
Sexual Misconduct PolicyNMC supports the use of social media to reach audiences important to the College such as students, prospective students, faculty and staff. The College presence or participation on social media sites is guided by College policy. This policy applies to all use of social media by NMC students, faculty and staff, unless otherwise provided, to represent or discuss matters concerning the College and/or members of the NMC community, whether or not such used involves the College's network or other computer resources, including online communications related to interactions in or about clinical and didactic course activities.
Distribution of sensitive and confidential information is protected under HIPAA and FERPA whether discussed through traditional communication channels or through social media.
"Social Media" are mechanisms for communication designed to be disseminated through social interaction, created using highly accessible and scalable publishing techniques. Examples of social media include, but are not limited to, collaborative projects (e.g, Wikipedia), blogs and microblogs (e.g., Twitter), content communities (e.g., YouTube), social networking sites (e.g., Facebook), virtual game worlds (e.g., World of Warcraft), and virtual social networks (e.g., Second Life).
While this policy may need to be modified as new technologies and social networking tools emerge, the spirit of the policy will remain the protection of sensitive and confidential information and guidelines for proper etiquette. Social media often spans traditional boundaries between professional and personal relationships and thus takes additional vigilance to make sure that one is protecting personal, professional, and college reputations.
Regardless of how the forms of social media are used, faculty, staff and students are responsible for the content they post or promote. Content contributed on these platforms is distributed and accessible immediately.
Copyright Use
Respect copyright and fair use: When posting, faculty, staff, and students must respect and adhere to any copyright and intellectual property rights of others and of the college. See also NMC's Copyright Policy.
Endorsements
All Nebraska Methodist College logos and/or the Methodist Health System logos are trademarked and the property of the Methodist Health System. No person is allowed to use any logos for endorsements or other purposes without the express written permission of the appropriate authorizer. No NMC logo or any other college images may be used on personal social media sites. The Nebraska Methodist College name may never be used to promote a product, service, cause, or political party or candidate.
College Property
Respect College time and property: College computers and time on the job are reserved for college-related business as approved by supervisors.
Terms of Service
Obey the Terms of Service of any social media platform employed.
Important Considerations
Before creating a blog or making any entries using College resources such as computers, internet, software, etc., students, faculty or staff must contact the Marketing department. Blogs that engage students, alumni, faculty, donors, and other constituents must receive prior approval.
Blogging Recommendation
Anything posted on a blog may have repercussions in the future. People have been sued, refused jobs or fired from their jobs because of material they posted on their blogs.
In addition to controlling what you post on your blog, you can monitor the comments that other people post. While your credibility as a blogger depends in large part on your openness to comments by others, you can set your blog so that all comments come to you for review prior to appearing on your blog. Some bloggers post their policy directly on their blogs.
For your own protection, you should never give information that identifies you, such as your full name, your address or phone number. Don't make yourself a target to scam artists or predators.
All employees are expected to use email for college business communications only.
Employee, faculty and student NMC e-mail accounts are the primary sources for distributing important college information. Information for students will also be posted on MyMethodist, the College student portal.
Although there are a variety of distribution lists available within the Nebraska Methodist Health System network, it is important to use good tact. When sending emails outside of the college, employees, faculty, and staff must abide by the CAN-SPAM Act.
Employees and students may not communicate via email any material that violates the privacy or publicity rights of another. Policies concerning privacy, confidentiality, including FERPA and HIPAA regulations, shall be strictly enforced for communications involving patients, employees, volunteers, employees, customers, visitors and other constituents.
In addition, published email communications may not disclose any sensitive, proprietary, confidential, or financial information about the Nebraska Methodist College.
If an employee, student, or agent of the College posts any material on behalf of an NMC department, the following policies must be adhered to in addition to all policies found herein:
Notify the college: Departments or college departments that have a social media page or would like to start one must contact Marketing at NMCmarketing@methodistcollege.edu.
All institutional pages must have a full-time appointed employee who is identified as being responsible for content. Current students can help manage pages but there must also be a staff member or faculty with administrative privileges.
Acknowledge who you are: If you are representing Nebraska Methodist College when posting on a social media platform, acknowledge so.
Have a plan: Departments should consider their messages, audiences, and goals, as well as a strategy for keeping information on social media sites up-to-date.
Link back to the college: Whenever possible, link back to the NMC Web site. Ideally, posts should be very brief; redirecting a visitor to content that resides within the Nebraska Methodist College website. When linking to a news article about NMC, check first to see whether you can link to a release on the NMC News page instead of to a publication or other media outlet.
Protect the institutional voice: Posts on social media sites should protect the College's institutional voice by remaining professional in tone and in good taste. No individual NMC department should construe its social media site as representing the college as a whole. Consider this when naming pages or accounts, selecting a profile picture or icon, and selecting content to post-names, profile images, and posts should all be clearly linked to the particular department rather than to the institution as a whole.
Faculty, staff and students are strongly encouraged to follow the recommended practices below so that they may bring their online social media communications and presence in compliance with this and other applicable policies:
Be careful. Privacy does not exist in the world of social media. If you wouldn't say it on the front page of the newspaper, consider whether you should post it online. If you are unsure about posting something or responding to a comment, ask your supervisor for input or contact Marketing at nmcmarketing@methodistcollege.edu. In all instances, think twice before posting
Be accurate. Get your facts straight before posting them on social media. Review content for grammatical and spelling errors. This is especially important if posting on behalf of the college in any capacity because regardless of who is posting content, it is the institutional voice.
Be respectful. Understand that content you and others contribute to a social media site could encourage comments or discussion of opposing ideas. Responses should always be considered carefully in light of how they would reflect on the 'poster' and/or the college and its institutional voice.
Be aware. Remember your audience and who you're talking to with your posts. This includes prospective students, current students, alumni, donors, current employers and colleagues, peers and other constituents. Consider this before publishing to ensure the post will not alienate, harm, or provoke any of these groups.
Own Your Viewpoints. On personal sites, identify your views, opinions, and other comments as your own. If you identify yourself as a Nebraska Methodist College faculty, staff member or student online, make it very clear that your views are yours and not those of Nebraska Methodist College or its affiliates.
Social media has the opportunity to create positive interactions with students, alumni, healthcare professionals and the community at large. However, there may be instances where an individual or group posts negative comments pertaining to Nebraska Methodist College and its constituents online. This could take place on blogs, social media outlets, aggregate review sites, comments sections on mass media publications, NMC's own internet holdings, and more. This policy is not intended as a means of infringing upon freedom of speech or silencing constructive criticism of the College. NMC is devoted to the concept of free speech, but recognizes that the safety and well-being of its students, faculty, and the community may require a response.
NMC takes each online comment made toward or about the College and its constituents seriously. While many such comments can be construed as frivolous, there some comments may inflict actual harm upon the College and members of the community. When a negative or inappropriate comment, review, blog post, or similar communication is posted about the College or its constituents and comes to the attention of the College, NMC will take the following action:
If the comment is not serious in nature, the NMC Marketing Department will offer the individual or group to file an official complaint. This response may appear as follows:
"We're sorry that you feel that way and we are looking into the situation. If you wish to file a formal complaint with Nebraska Methodist College, please visit the website here."
Although this will remain the primary response for the majority of situations that may arise, the NMC Marketing with the assistance of the Compliance Director is given the authority to approach each comment on its own merits so as to be able to adequately respond to the extraordinary nature of some forms of online communication. This may include requests for takedown made to the forum hosting the comment, disciplinary action of the writer if such person falls under the authority of the College and is found to be in violation of College policies, or if the post could be perceived as dangerous, filing a report about the person to the proper authorities (to be done only in situations deemed to pose an actual danger to the College or its constituents) as well as any additional action deemed appropriate to the specific situation being addressed.
The health of our students is very important to success in and out of the classroom. All students must maintain and adhere to the student health policies and procedures.
Title IX of the Education amendments of 1972 is a landmark federal civil rights law that prohibits sex discrimination in education.
"No person in the United States, shall on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to, discrimination under any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance." See Title IX of the education Amendments of 1972.
Nebraska Methodist College students or employees reporting victimization of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking will be provided their written rights, which are:
(i) To be assisted by campus authorities if reporting a crime to local law enforcement;
(ii) Change academic, living, transportation, or working situations to avoid a hostile environment;
(iii) Obtain or enforce a no contact directive or restraining order;
(iv) Have a clear description of NMC's disciplinary process and know the range of possible sanctions; and
(v) Receive contact information about existing counseling, heath, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, and other services available both on-campus and community.
Please see the NMC Title IX policy including definitions: Under Sexual Misconduct Policy.
Title IX coordinator Lindsay Snipes (402) 354-7259 lindsay.snipes@methodistcollege.edu
Prompt reporting of a complaint is strongly encouraged as it allows for rapid response to and resolution of objectionable behavior. Contact 911 if you are in immediate danger.
To file a Title IX complaint, please click here.
You are not alone:
The following resources can provide guidance and support:
Confidential Resources:
Student Counseling: Kathy Dworak - (402) 354-7080
Campus Health Center: (402) 354-7210 / (402) 354-7260
Campus Resources:
Campus Security: (402) 354-7000 / (402) 740-6368 (cell)
Lead Title IX Coordinator: Lindsay Snipes - (402) 354-7259 or lindsay.snipes@methodistcollege.edu
Community Resources:
Methodist Emergency Room SANE/SART- (402) 354-4000
Locations:
8303 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE
717 N. 190th Plaza, Omaha, NE
Women's Center for Advancement (WCA) - (402) 345-6555 or 24/7 Crisis Line (402) 345-7273
24/7 Hot Lines:
National Domestic Violence Hotline-(800) 799-SAFE (7233) and (800) 787-3224
National Sexual Assault Hotline - (800) 656-HOPE (4673)
Websites:
Not Alone: www.notalone.gov
Nebraska Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Coalition: www.ndvsac.org
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): www.rainn.org
LGBTQ: The Survivor Project: www.survivorproject.org
7/2013; 7/2015; 9/2017
Title IX-Sexual Misconduct Policy
To communicate the College's programs and resources available concerning sexual harassment/assault prevention.
Sexual Harassment/Assault Prevention Programs and ResourcesClick below for a list of program handbooks, which will include one per program at Nebraska Methodist College. Your handbook describes the details about program study and requirements in your specific program.
The policies and procedures contained in these handbooks are subject to change without notice at the discretion of the Program Director, with the approval of the Dean. Any changes made will be communicated to students in a timely manner. It is the responsibility of each student to be acquainted with all requirements, policies and procedures for his or her degree program and to assume responsibility for meeting those requirements.
The purpose of this syllabus addendum is to provide students with information that supplements the College Catalog and other institutional policies. It is the student's responsibility to become familiar with these items and abide by all policies while enrolled at NMC.
All NMC students are provided with an NMC email address. It is the responsibility of the student to check this email account on a regular basis to receive important information from faculty and other NMC personnel. In general, email communication with a faculty member MUST be only through your NMC email account.
Reasonable accommodations may be provided to students who have a documented physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Students who qualify for a reasonable accommodation are encouraged to follow the "Services for Students with Disabilities" policy found in the College Catalog and make the appropriate arrangements with the Coordinator of Academic Success (Clark 2243, 402-354-7029). It is the student's responsibility to notify the College of need for accommodations. Please note that accommodations will not be granted retroactively, and late notification of a qualifying disability does not excuse the student from work already completed in the course. Additional details on the NMC's policy for services for students with disabilities are published in the College Catalog.
The faculty and administration of NMC value constructive and professional feedback of students. Information from the course evaluation is used for program and college accreditation. This information also provide faculty with formative feedback that could be used to impact and improve future instruction. The course evaluation is completely anonymous and will be completed electronically by the student. Before completing a course evaluation, a student should reflect on their learning experience in order to provide thoughtful responses to the questions asked in the evaluation. The faculty and administration expect students to adhere to the tenets of professionalism and the College Core Values when rating the course and faculty, especially when providing written comments. Any irrelevant or inappropriate comments will not be considered in relationship to impacting course instruction or as evaluative of faculty performance.
Free online tutoring services from NetTutor are available through My.Methodist portal for currently enrolled students. Available subjects include: Writing, Patho/Pharm, Math, Medical Terminology, Statistics, Anatomy &Physiology I and II, Pathophysiology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Nutrition, Pharmacology, Radiographic Imaging Physics, and Advanced Anatomy & Applied Physiology. For more information, please visit the Tutoring site in MyMethodist.
Students must demonstrate activity in a course within 48 hours of the course start date. Activity must be demonstrated by logging into the course and completing one or more of the following academically related activities: downloading or viewing the syllabus, reviewing course material, submitting an assignment, taking a quiz or exam, participating in an online discussion related to the course content, and/or initiating contact with the faculty to ask a question about the academic subject studied in the course. Student eligibility for financial aid will be based on the aforementioned criteria. See Attendance and Course Participation Policy.
NMC prohibits audio/video recording of classroom activities by students without the written permission of the instructor. You may not record class sessions or portions thereof unless the Coordinator of Academic Success has authorized recording as an academic accommodation for a qualified student with a disability and has notified the instructor of that authorization. All such recordings are for the sole use of the individual student and may not be reproduced, sold, posted online, or otherwise distributed. See also Recording of Classroom Sessions Policy.
A student who is called to active duty in the United States Armed Forces (including the National Guard or Reserve) for a period of more than 30 days is entitled to reenroll at Nebraska Methodist College, providing the following conditions are met:
The student gives advance written notice of the call to active duty or, upon seeking readmission, submits written verification that such service was performed, necessitating their absence.Both the advance notice of the call to active duty and verification of service performed should be submitted to the NMC Director of Registration and Records;
The cumulative length of the student's absence from NMC because of active duty service does not exceed five years;
The student submits a notification of intent to reenroll within three years after the completion of service or within two years after recovery from an illness or injury incurred during the service; and
The separation from service was not a dishonorable or bad conduct discharge.
Institutional determination of a student's preparedness to be readmitted with the same academic status will be made on a case-by-case basis. Should Nebraska Methodist College determine that the student is not prepared to be readmitted with the same academic status, the College will make reasonable efforts, at no cost to the student, to help the student become prepared (e.g., refresher courses).
During the first academic year, the student will be assessed the same tuition and fee charges that were in effect during the academic year he/she left Nebraska Methodist College. Veteran or other service member education benefits may be considered as well.
Military Tuition Assistance is a U.S. Department of Defense program. Tuition Assistance rules vary by branch of service and even vary between different units within the same branch depending on whether the unit is active, reserve, or National Guard. Tuition Assistance funds will be applied to tuition costs only.
Military Tuition Assistance Recipients
Military Tuition Assistance (TA) is awarded to a student under the assumption that the student will attend school for the entire period for which the assistance is awarded. When a student withdraws, the student may no longer be eligible for the full amount of TA funds originally awarded. To comply with the U.S. Department of Defense policy, NMC will return any unearned TA funds on a proportional basis through at least 60% portion of the period for which the funds were provided. If a service member stops attending due to a military service obligation, NMC will work with the affected service member to identify solutions that will not result in a student debt for the returned portion.
Withdrawals
A student's official withdrawal date is used as the last date of attendance and to calculate earned percentage of TA. A student's official withdrawal date is determined by using the last date of attendance that is documented and submitted to the Office of the Registrar.
Once the last date of attendance has been determined, NMC will recalculate a student's TA eligibility based on the following formula:
The amount of TA funding that is earned is determined on a pro-rata basis. For example, if a student completed 30% of the course, s/he earned 30% of the TA funds that s/he was originally scheduled to receive. The remainder of the unearned funds (70%) would be returned to the TA program. If this results in an unpaid tuition balance, payment would be the responsibility of the student. Once a student has attended at least 60% of the period for which TA funds were approved, the student is considered to have earned 100% of the TA funds.
Updated: March 2016
Veterans and active duty military personnel with military obligations are encouraged to communicate these to the faculty. These communications need to occur within the first two weeks of a course, or as soon as military obligations are identified, and the student needs to provide relevant documentation to the faculty. If necessary, once the student has self-disclosed and provided proper documentation to the faculty, reasonable arrangements will be implemented to help the student complete their academic coursework.
