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Academic Grievance

I. Purpose 
This policy establishes a formal procedure for students to address grievances related to academic matters. It aims to ensure fair and equitable treatment of all students and to provide a mechanism for resolving disputes in a timely and constructive manner. 
 
II. Scope 
This policy applies to all academic grievances filed by students enrolled at William Woods University, including but not limited to: 

Course administration: Issues related to course requirements, assignments, examinations, or instructor conduct that negatively impacts student learning. 

Academic advising: Concerns about inadequate or misleading academic advising that impacts academic progress. 

 
III. Exclusions 
This policy does not apply to: 

General student conduct: Non-academic grievances should be addressed through the Student Code of Conduct. 

Discrimination or harassment: Complaints of discrimination or harassment should be filed through the Title IX office. 

Grade appeals: Challenges to final grades should follow the Grade Appeal Policy. 

 
IV. Procedure 
Students must follow these steps to file an academic grievance: 

  1. Instructor resolution: 

    The student should attempt to resolve the issue with the instructor or other relevant party involved. 

    If the issue cannot be resolved with the instructor, the student may proceed to file a formal grievance.
  2. Formal Grievance: 

    The student must submit a written grievance to the Executive Dean of the School (or designee). Within 10 business days of the incident or the date the student became aware of the issue. 
    The written grievance should include: 

    Student's name and contact information 
    Course name and instructor's name 
    A clear and concise description of the grievance 
    Relevant evidence or documentation 
    Desired resolution 
  3. Review and Investigation: 

    The Executive Dean will review the grievance and may investigate, which can include: 

    Meeting with the student and the instructor 
    Gathering information from relevant parties 
    Reviewing relevant documents 
  4. Decision and Notification: 

    The Executive Dean, when applicable and appropriate, will issue a written decision to the student within 10 business days of receiving the grievance.  

    The decision will include a rationale and any actions to be taken. 

    The Executive Dean is the final authority concerning an academic grievance appeal, no further appeal will be considered following their decision.