NLU PA Program — Didactic Year Handbook
Non-Academic Concerns include University services, administrative decisions, clinical-site concerns, student services, program operations, and other University-related matters, addressed through NLU’s Issue Resolution process. Harassment and Discrimination allegations, including sexual misconduct, sexual harassment, and other prohibited conduct, are reported through the applicable NLU process; the MSPAS Program does not independently adjudicate matters assigned by University policy to another NLU office. Retaliation concerns may be reported immediately to Student Affairs, the Title IX Coordinator when applicable, the Program Director, or another appropriate University official; filing a complaint will not result in retaliation.
VII. Informal Resolution
Whenever appropriate and safe, students are encouraged to first discuss concerns with the individual or department involved (e.g., a course director, faculty member, academic advisor, or Student Affairs) before filing a formal complaint. Informal consultation does not waive a student’s right to initiate a formal grievance or appeal when the matter is eligible for formal review, and a student shall not be required to confront an alleged harasser or discriminator when doing so would be inappropriate, unsafe, or contrary to policy.
VIII. Formal Grievance Process
A student may initiate a formal grievance when informal resolution is unsuccessful, inappropriate, unavailable, or not required. The grievance should include, when reasonably available, the student’s identifying information, the date of the event or decision, a description of the concern, individuals involved, the applicable policy, an explanation of the alleged error or violation, relevant documentation, and the requested resolution. Grievances should be submitted within the applicable timeframe, or as soon as reasonably practicable if none is specified.
IX. Academic Appeals
Academic appeals follow the applicable NLU Academic Appeals Policy, which provides a four-step process with a final and binding decision by the Senior Academic Officer or designee. The MSPAS Program cooperates with the University process and provides relevant records when requested, and does not establish a separate appeal process that conflicts with the University-wide process.
X. Appeals of Academic Progression, Remediation, Deceleration, or Dismissal
These matters are governed substantively by the Program’s Academic Progression and Remediation Policy, Leave of Absence Policy, and applicable NLU withdrawal and student conduct policies, each of which establishes applicable appeal rights. A grievance or appeal does not automatically suspend an academic decision unless suspension is authorized by the applicable policy or interim relief is granted.
XI. Leave of Absence
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