Academic Policies

Course Cancellation Policy

The College reserves the right to cancel any course at any time. If a course you’re enrolled in is canceled, you will be notified promptly and given an opportunity to enroll in another course.

Repeat Course Policy

• Federal financial aid may be available to help pay for a repeated course if your existing grade in the course is an F or W. If you received a passing grade (D- or better), financial aid may be used to repeat the course only once.
• State financial aid may be available for repeated courses until the minimum grade for your program is earned.
• Financial aid is not available for coursework completed in a previously earned certificate or degree program.

Prior to attempting a course for the third time, you’ll need approval from an Academic Advisor. You may also be required to pay all related tuition and fees for a third attempt. When you repeat a course, the higher or highest of the grades will be used in computing your GPA. However, all grades will remain on your official transcript and will be included in the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress calculation.

An attempt is defined as a course completion in which you are assigned a grade. Some programs may have exceptions to the third attempt policy based on licensing, accreditation, and standards, which may stipulate fewer attempts.

Withdrawal from a Course Policy

Student-Initiated Withdrawal from a Course

As a student, you have the option to withdraw from a course up to the end of the week before the final week of the course. To do so, you need to submit a notice of withdrawal using the “withdraw” option in MyBaker. The official withdrawal date, which determines tuition refunds, is the date you submit your withdrawal request through this option. If you need assistance with completing the withdrawal process, you can reach out to your Academic Advisor.

College-Initiated Withdrawal from a Course

1. If you fail to engage academically during the first week of the course, you may be withdrawn. Remember, it’s your responsibility to drop courses you don’t plan to attend, and you’ll be financially responsible for tuition charges if you don’t drop/withdraw during the drop/add period.
2. If you’re not progressing academically in the course, your faculty will submit an Early Alert (EA) and inform you of your status. All administrative withdrawals will be decided by the Director of Student Affairs (or designated official).
3. Violation of the Basic Principles of Student Responsibility Policy or other reasons determined on a case-by-case basis.

Medical Leave of Absence

If you have a health condition, whether physical or psychological, which reaches a point where continuing participation in college becomes impossible, impractical, or unsafe to any member of the college community, the following policy applies. The Director of Student Affairs is responsible for the administration of this policy.

A. Voluntary Leave

1. Assessing the Need: If you believe that taking time off would help, it’s recommended to discuss your situation with College personnel like the Director of Student Affairs, Disabilities Specialist, program director or dean, or healthcare providers. They can help you determine if a leave would be beneficial.
2. Duration of the Leave: The length of your leave will be collaborative decision with you and Baker College based on the specific situation. Keep in mind that indefinite leaves aren’t allowed, so there will be a specified time frame for your leave.

B. Involuntary Leave

If there’s a concern about your safety or the safety of the community, the College may place you on an involuntary leave of absence, but only under extraordinary circumstances. This would happen if there’s strong evidence suggesting that you might pose a serious risk of harm to yourself or others due to physical or psychological illness. Additionally, if there’s a significant risk that you might harm yourself based on an individual assessment, the process may also be initiated.

1. Individualized Assessment: When the College becomes aware of a health emergency or condition that makes it impossible, impractical, or unsafe for you to continue participating in college activities, they’ll consult with relevant parties and review any supporting documentation, including recommendations from your healthcare provider, academic advisors, and possibly you or your guardian.
2. Interim Action: If safety is an immediate concern, the College may temporarily remove you from campus until a final decision about involuntary leave is made. You can appeal this interim action in writing.
3. Considering Alternatives: Before deciding on involuntary withdrawal, the College will explore other options, such as voluntary withdrawal, accommodations for any disabilities, or code of conduct contracts.
4. Notice of Withdrawal: If involuntary withdrawal is deemed necessary, you’ll be withdrawn from all registered courses, and you’ll receive a written notice outlining the decision and any interim actions taken.
5. Appeal: You have the right to appeal the decision for involuntary withdrawal by submitting a written appeal to the campus president within seven calendar days of receiving the notice.

C. Financial Obligation

If you need to take a medical leave of absence, it’s important to understand that this won’t change your financial responsibilities. Tuition and fees remain subject to the College’s refund policy and financial aid may be reduced as mandated by federal and state regulations. If your medical leave of absence lasts more than six months, student loans will enter repayment. If you have any questions about how this might impact you financially, don’t hesitate to reach out to OneStop for assistance.

Grade Appeal Process

If you believe that your final course grade is incorrect due to a clerical or calculation error, a decision that seems out of character in the context of the course, or if it doesn’t align with the established grading criteria outlined in the course syllabus, you have the right to file an appeal. Make sure to provide evidence to support your claim. Keep in mind that there are deadlines for each stage of the appeal process. If you don’t file the required paperwork within 30 calendar days of the end of the semester in which the concern occurred, you won’t be able to appeal. It’s essential to meet all deadlines to ensure your appeal is considered.

Step 1:

You’ll need to discuss the concern in dispute directly with the instructor.

Step 2:

If you’re unable to resolve your concern with the instructor and you want to take it further, reach out to an Academic Advisor. They’ll give you an Academic Appeal form.

After meeting with the advisor and getting the form, you will have 10 business days to complete and submit it, along with a detailed written document which summarizes the facts and data from your perspective. Make sure to meet the deadline for submitting the appeal and all supporting materials. If anything is missing by the deadline, your appeal will proceed without it. Once your appeal is received, the Academic Advisor will pass it on to the instructor.

The instructor will review your appeal and provide a written response within 10 business days. The Academic Advisor will then share this response with you. If your concern remains unresolved, the appeal will move to Step 3.

Step 3:

The Academic Advisor will send the Academic Appeal form and any written documents to the Dean or their representative. Within 10 business days, the Dean or their representative will make a decision and send the appeal back to the Academic Advisor.

After the decision is made, the Academic Advisor will let you know. You’ll have five business days from the notification to indicate, in writing on the Academic Appeal form, whether you accept the decision or if you want to move forward to Step 4.

Step 4:

If you’re not satisfied with the outcome of Step 3 and you want to take your concern further, the Academic Advisor will reach out to the chair of the judiciary council and send them all the documents. Within 15 business days of receiving your appeal, the council will meet to address your concern.

The council, chaired by the Director of Student Affairs or someone they appoint (who won’t vote), will include two students, two faculty members who teach in programs different than yours, and a program director from a different division than the one related to your course.

You and your instructor can both speak to the council, but they won’t consider any new documents. After they reach a decision, the chair will write a report and add it to your file. You’ll get a copy within five business days. The council’s decision is final, but you and your instructor can write responses that will also be included in your file. There won’t be any more chances to appeal after this.

Attendance

• Physically attending class
• Assignment submission and/or completion
• Taking part in interactive tutorials or computer-assisted instruction
• Attending a study group assigned by your teacher
• Participating in online discussions
• Reaching out to your teacher if you need help with the class

Course Reinstatement Following Withdrawal

If you need to be reinstated into a course, the Director of Student Affairs will make the final determination, with or without faculty input.

Inclement Weather Procedures

If there’s an emergency causing Baker College to close, you’ll find a notice on the website (baker.edu). Pay attention to whether day, evening, or all classes are canceled.

All students in the Baker College Emergency Notification System (ENS) will get updates through their Baker email, text messages, or recorded phone calls.

Remember: If the campus closes, students in off-site courses like work experiences or clinical rotations should go unless it’s unsafe to travel. In that case, contact your site supervisor or College official to discuss your situation.

During class cancellations, keep up with your studies on Canvas for continued instruction.

Student Complaint Policy

As a student, you have the right to file formal complaints about College matters if you feel that your rights have been violated. These formal complaints include grade disputes, equal opportunity complaints, Americans with Disabilities Act complaints, and harassment complaints. The following sections of this Handbook provide more information about specific policy and complaint procedures.

To file a complaint, you should follow the procedures outlined in the relevant sections of this Handbook. For grade disputes, you will use the grade appeal form. For all other complaints, you’ll use the Baker College Concerns & Complaints Form. Your formal complaint must be specific, well-documented, signed by you, and delivered either by U.S. mail or as an attachment to an email. To be considered a “formal student complaint,” your submission should include detailed information, such as relevant documentation, dates, locations, and witnesses.

Additionally, you must clearly state the remedy you’re seeking or the reasonable steps you believe should be taken to resolve your complaints. Within 10 business days of receiving your formal, written complaint, the College will outline the steps it will take to address the issue.

If you have a complaint that Baker College hasn’t addressed to your satisfaction, you can reach out to the Higher Learning Commission:

Email Correspondence

Baker College Student Printing

• You have access to the Baker College print system to print, copy, and scan documents.
• Each semester, you receive a $50 printing credit, which equals 500 black and white single-sided pages. (If you print in color, it will reduce the number of pages provided.)
• Keep in mind that duplex (two-sided) print jobs count as two printed pages.
• Your printing balance doesn’t carry over from one semester to the next. You get a new balance each semester.
• If you use up your $50.00 printing credit during the semester, you’ll need to purchase additional printing credit to continue printing.
• Any prints you buy are nonrefundable and nontransferable.
• Your semester allotment of prints can’t be exchanged for cash.

Internet Account

1. Email and Online Classroom Access: Your account sets up your email and online classroom accounts, providing you with communication channels and access to course materials.
2. Library Resources: Gain access to restricted areas on Baker College’s website, including a wide range of library resources to aid your research and studies.
3. Software Downloads: Enjoy the privilege of downloading certain software exclusively available to students, provided by the College to enhance your learning experience.
4. My.Baker.edu Access: Access my.baker.edu, your personalized student portal, where you can view grades, transcript information, billing details, and conveniently register for classes.

Assessment at Baker College

At Baker College we collect various types of assessment data at the course, program, and institutional levels for the purpose of program planning and accountability.

As a student, you may be completing projects with rubrics, taking standardized exams, filling out surveys, or participating in other evaluation methods. The data collected through these assessments is crucial in helping us understand areas for improvement and refining our teaching and learning practices.

Graduate Studies Academic Outcomes Assessment

As graduate students, you may be required to take standardized entrance, progress, or exit examinations as part of your academic journey. Additionally, your performance will be evaluated through various methods established by your course instructors and the Center for Graduate Studies.

Rest assured that your privacy will be respected throughout this process. The College will utilize the information gathered from these assessments to enhance programs for future students and evaluate the effectiveness of program delivery without compromising your privacy.

Recording a Course Session

As a student, you have the right to audio record lectures or mini-lectures within your course sessions for personal use. However, it’s important to inform your instructors before doing so. If you wish to video record course sessions for personal use, you must obtain authorization from your instructors beforehand.

Diversity Statement

• We welcome you, regardless of your age, background, beliefs, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, abilities, or any other visible or non-visible differences.
• We expect all members of our College community to uphold and demonstrate values of respect, inclusivity, and kindness.
• We encourage you to actively contribute to a culture of respect, acceptance, and inclusivity, ensuring that every person, including yourself, feels valued and supported.

Equal Opportunity Policy Statement

• We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristics in providing and administering educational programs, services, activities, employment, or recruitment.
• We affirm our commitment to equal employment and educational opportunities for all individuals, ensuring that recruitment decisions are made without discrimination based on any protected characteristics.
• We support transgender students and employees by allowing access to gender-specific facilities, such as restrooms or locker rooms, consistent with their gender identities. Additionally, we offer individual user options for students and employees seeking additional privacy.
• If you have any questions or concerns about our non-discrimination policy, you can reach out to the Vice President of Human Resources at 1020 S. Washington, Owosso, MI, 48867, or by phone at (989) 729-3955.

At Baker College, we’re dedicated to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community where everyone can thrive and succeed.

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), and Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA)

• We ensure that all new facilities are barrier-free and accessible to people with disabilities.
• Existing facilities are modified to make programs, classes, and activities accessible to individuals with disabilities.
• We make reasonable and appropriate adjustments and accommodations to provide a full educational opportunity for students with disabilities.
• When necessary, we provide auxiliary aids and services in a timely manner to ensure individuals with disabilities can effectively participate in and enjoy the benefits of our services, programs, courses, employment, or activities.

Prohibited Harassment Policy

At Baker College, we’re committed to providing equal opportunities and fostering inclusive environments for all students and employees. Harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, or other protected characteristics is strictly prohibited.

One example of prohibited harassment is sexual harassment, which includes: 1) Making unwanted sexual advances or requests for sexual favors, or any other verbal or physical behavior of a sexual nature, as a condition for employment or education; 2) Making employment or educational decisions based on whether someone accepts or rejects such behavior; and/or 3) Creating an intimidating, offensive, or hostile work or educational environment through such behavior.

If you believe you’ve experienced any form of prohibited harassment, it’s important to speak up. You can report the alleged conduct immediately to the campus Director of Student Affairs. Sexual harassment may also be covered by Baker College’s Title IX Nondiscrimination Policy.

Rest assured that any complaint will be taken seriously, and an investigation will begin promptly. Your privacy will be respected to the fullest extent possible throughout the process. If an employee or student is found to have engaged in prohibited harassment, they will face appropriate disciplinary actions, which could range from a warning in their file to termination or expulsion from the College.

We strictly prohibit any form of retaliation or discrimination against individuals who report harassment or participate in an investigation. We understand that determining whether prohibited harassment has occurred requires careful consideration of all evidence. We also acknowledge the serious impact that false accusations can have on innocent individuals. We trust that everyone in our community will continue to uphold our values of respect and professionalism, creating environments that are free of discrimination and harassment.

Examples of Sexual Harassment To Be Aware Of

Verbal

This includes sexual innuendos, suggestive comments, insults, threats, jokes about gender-specific traits, or sexual propositions made verbally.

Nonverbal

Nonverbal sexual harassment involves making suggestive or insulting noises, leering, whistling, or making obscene gestures towards someone.

Physical

Physical sexual harassment consists of unwanted physical contact such as touching, pinching, brushing the body, coercing sexual intercourse, or assault.

It’s essential to recognize these behaviors as forms of sexual harassment and take appropriate action if you experience or witness them. Everyone has the right to feel safe and respected in their environment, free from any form of harassment.

Sexual Misconduct Policy Statement

At Baker College, we’re committed to ensuring that sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence, has no place in our community. We want to make it clear that other acts, such as dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, are also forms of sex-based discrimination and are strictly prohibited.

To address these issues comprehensively, we have established a plan that includes educational programs and procedures for reporting, investigating, and adjudicating cases of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. This policy applies regardless of where the incidents occur, whether on or off campus, and when they are reported to a Campus Security Authority.

Baker College prohibits domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, reaffirming our commitment to maintaining campus environments that prioritize the dignity and worth of all members of our community.

If you’d like to review or obtain a copy of Baker College’s policy on sexual misconduct, you can find it here.

Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy

At Baker College, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. We want to ensure that both you and your fellow students feel protected from any form of bullying or aggressive behavior. Bullying is defined as repeated, abusive conduct that causes intentional physical or emotional harm to the target and often involves an imbalance of power between the bully and the victim. This can take various forms, including written, verbal, social, graphic, or physical gestures.

We have a strict policy against all types of bullying or harassment, whether it’s written, physical, verbal, or psychological. This includes actions like hazing, gestures, comments, threats, or behaviors that cause or threaten bodily harm, instill fear for your personal safety, or lead to personal degradation. While teasing differs from bullying, it’s important to recognize that repeated and harmful teasing can also be considered bullying. For example, constant criticism, work sabotage, or glaring are all potential forms of bullying tactics.

Bullying creates environments filled with fear and disrespect, which can greatly affect your physical and psychological well-being. Additionally, it hinders your ability to achieve your full potential. At Baker College, we’re dedicated to creating environments where every student feels safe, respected, and empowered to thrive.

If you believe you’ve experienced bullying or harassment, it’s important to report it right away to the campus Director of Student Affairs. All complaints will be promptly investigated, and confidentiality will be maintained to the fullest extent possible.

Any employee or student found to have engaged in bullying or harassment may face disciplinary actions, which could range from a warning in their file to termination or expulsion from the College. Retaliation or discrimination against an individual for reporting such incidents or participating in an investigation is strictly prohibited.

We understand that determining whether bullying or harassment has occurred requires careful consideration of all evidence. We also acknowledge the serious impact that false accusations can have on innocent individuals. We trust that everyone in our community will continue to behave responsibly and professionally, ensuring a positive and inclusive environment free of discrimination.

If you need to file a complaint, please complete the Baker College Complaint/Grievance form.

Examples of Bullying or Harassment To Be Aware Of

Verbal Bullying

This includes repeated comments made to or about a person, which can involve name-calling, intimidation, or humiliation. Verbal bullying often occurs when there’s an imbalance of power between the bully and the victim. When verbal bullying is based on protected characteristics and creates a hostile environment, it may be considered unlawful harassment.

Physical Bullying

This involves repeated physically aggressive actions towards someone, which could constitute assault, battery, or false imprisonment. Even if nobody reports it, physical bullying may still be happening.

Social Bullying

Social bullying harms a person socially, often leading to their isolation. Examples include spreading rumors, staring, laughing, or shunning someone.

Cyber Bullying

Using digital platforms like the Internet, social media, or cell phones to bully someone constitutes cyberbullying. It’s important to recognize and address cyberbullying as it can have serious effects on the victim’s mental health and well-being.

Other Forms

Bringing or threatening baseless legal actions against someone to control or punish them is another form of bullying or harassment that should not be tolerated.

By understanding these examples, you can identify instances of bullying or harassment and take appropriate action to address them. Remember, everyone deserves to feel safe and respected in their environment.

Grievance Procedure for Complaints

If you believe that Baker College has not properly followed the principles and regulations outlined in Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), or the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA), you have several options for filing a complaint.

Option I

If you believe you have a valid grievance, you should first talk about it informally and verbally with the campus Director of Student Affairs, who serves as the designated campus EEO/AA/ADA Officer. After discussing your grievance, the Director will investigate the complaint and provide you with a response. If necessary, formal procedures may be initiated, following these steps:

Step 1

If you have a grievance, you’ll need to submit a written statement, signed by you, to the campus Director of Student Affairs within five business days of getting a response to your informal complaint. The Director will then look into your grievance and respond to you in writing within five business days.

Step 2

If you’re not satisfied with the decision made by the campus Director of Student Affairs, you have the option to appeal it. You can do this by submitting a signed statement of appeal within five business days of receiving the response from the Director of Student Affairs. The Dean of Students will then meet with everyone involved, come to a conclusion, and provide a written response to you within 10 business days.

If you need more information about the College’s grievance procedure, just ask, and a copy will be provided to you.

Option II

If you have a grievance or inquiry, you can contact the Office for Civil Rights, Region V, Department of Education, at any time. They’re located at Room 700C, 7th Floor, 401 S. State St., Chicago, IL 60605-1202. They can help address any concerns you may have.

Title IX Nondiscrimination Policy

Baker College does not discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and its regulations, including in admission and employment. Inquiries about Title IX may be referred to Baker College Title IX Coordinator, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, or both. 

Baker College Title IX Coordinator is Voula Erfourth, Ph.D., Vice President for Student Success & Engagement and they may be reached at: 1020 S Washington St, Owosso, MI, 48867; or by email at vpsse@baker.edu; or by phone at 989-729-3406.

Baker College nondiscrimination policy and grievance procedures can be located in the Baker College Title IX Policy

To report information about conduct that may constitute sex discrimination or make a complaint of sex discrimination under Title IX, please refer to the  Baker College Title IX Policy

Code of Conduct

Philosophy

Baker College believes in providing a safe, respectful learning and working environment for all students and staff. At Baker College, the Code of Conduct is designed to help you learn and grow while also providing a framework for how things work here. When we interact with you, our goal is to help support the College’s educational mission, guiding principles, and the outcomes we want for all students. Our process for handling conduct issues gives you chances to talk and think about what happened, all while reminding you to stay committed to the Basic Principles of Student Responsibility and other rules laid out in the Student Handbook. These documents show you the standards we expect from every student as part of the Baker College community.

Code of Conduct

The Code of Student Conduct lays the groundwork for your behavior as a student, aiming to create a respectful and positive learning environment that values academic integrity. If you find yourself violating these rules, there’s a process in place to address it. Additionally, the College has detailed the Basic Principles of Student Responsibility, an IT Acceptable Use Policy, and an Academic Honor Code to give you further guidance on how to conduct yourself. These policies are here to ensure that you and everyone else at the College know what’s expected of you, promoting fairness and integrity across the board.

College of Health Science and College of Nursing

Programs in the College of Health Science and the College of Nursing may have additional guidelines. Even though these programs still follow the general Code of Conduct, they might have their own specific expectations and consequences that are related to the industry or the program itself.

To find out more about what’s expected of you in your specific program, make sure to check your program handbook. It’ll have all the details you need to know about how you should behave and what might happen if you don’t follow the rules.

Basic Principles of Student Responsibility

At Baker College, we’re dedicated to ensuring that everyone can study, learn, and live without feeling afraid, embarrassed, or disrespected. We want our community to be a place where all differences are embraced and everyone feels respected, comfortable, and like they are treated fairly.

Our rules and policies are designed to reflect these values. Enrolling at Baker College is a privilege, and we expect students to behave in a way that aligns with the College’s mission, ideals, and educational goals.

Here’s how we expect students to conduct themselves:

• Respect others’ rights and property.
• Treat fellow students, faculty, and staff with kindness and respect.
• Help create a positive learning atmosphere.
• Provide honest and complete information on all required forms and documents.
• Refrain from the use of alcoholic beverages (except where allowed in student housing for students of legal drinking age).
• Follow all federal, state, and local laws.
• Refrain from any illegal possession, sale, or use of drugs, whether illegal or over-the-counter.
• Keep facilities and equipment clean and orderly.
• Adhere to all College policies and procedures.

If a student’s behavior doesn’t meet these expectations, the College will take disciplinary action.

On campus, the following actions can lead to discipline, including expulsion:

• Having, using, or displaying weapons, explosives, or hazardous chemicals
• Assaulting or threatening others
• Tampering with safety or security equipment
• Theft or vandalism
• Distributing, possessing, or being under the influence of drugs
• Arson or any attempt of arson
• Possessing or being under the influence of alcohol (except where allowed in student housing for students of legal drinking age)
• Interfering with Campus Safety Officers
• Being unwilling or unable to show your Baker College ID when requested by an authorized College official
• Failing to comply with requests or disciplinary measures given by College staff or authorities
• Bullying, stalking, harassing, or intimidating others
• Causing disruptions on campus or violating the Basic Principles of Student Responsibility
• Identity theft or use of another person’s user ID and/or password
• Engaging in activities that create panic, disturb the peace, harm property, or put people in danger
• Obstructing or threatening to obstruct the free movement of people or vehicles, or the normal operations of the College
• Using abusive or offensive language, gestures, or electronic media
• Removing or tampering with College-owned equipment
• Running a business on College property or with the use of College equipment
• Using the College’s name for personal advertising

Disclosure of Criminal Arrest

If a student is arrested for a felony, whether it happens on or off campus, they may have to temporarily stop attending classes at the College. This suspension remains in place until the legal case is resolved. Once the legal process is over, the student can apply to return to the College if they wish.

Additionally, if a student is ever charged with or convicted of a felony while enrolled at Baker College, they are required to inform a College official about it. Failing to do so can result in immediate expulsion from the College.

The Conduct Process

When a student violates the Code of Conduct, the student will receive notification of an Administrative Meeting. This notice will include the date(s) of the alleged behavior and request the student’s presence to discuss the matter with Baker College personnel. During the Administrative Meeting, the College will present all available evidence and provide the student with the opportunity to either deny or accept responsibility for the alleged violation. College personnel will then make a determination regarding the student’s responsibility, and appropriate sanctions will be issued if deemed necessary. For certain violations of the Code of Conduct, an alternative dispute resolution process may be available. In cases involving residence hall dismissal or expulsion from the College, the student may have the right to appeal the decision.

Sanctions for Violating the Code of Conduct

1. Conduct Contract: This document outlines the specific actions or behaviors that were inappropriate and the corresponding policy violations. It also delineates the consequences of any future violations, potentially including expulsion from the College.
2. Educational Sanctions: These measures aim to enhance the student’s knowledge, comprehension, and personal development concerning their violation.
3. Expulsion: Immediate and indefinite termination of enrollment at Baker College, accompanied by a ban from all Baker College campuses.
4. Restorative Measures: These practices focus on rectifying wrongs and restoring relationships through dialogue. They may be utilized in resolving disputes between students or when a student breaches institutional policies, and can be combined with other sanctions.
5. Suspension: Specifies the duration during which a student is prohibited from accessing any campus. This sanction may also extend to College-provided housing where applicable.
6. Verbal Warning: A conversation between a College staff member and the student, detailing the inappropriate conduct and serving as a formal alert.

Interim Measures

• Suspension from student housing
• Suspension from the College
• Change in course schedule
• A no contact order

Academic Integrity Philosophy

Academic Honor Code

Integrity and honorable behavior are fundamental aspects of professionalism and citizenship, extending far beyond one’s time at Baker College. They serve as the cornerstone for ethical conduct in today’s ever-changing workplace. Academic integrity is crucial for students to thrive in their academic endeavors and prepare for the demands of careers in our information-driven global society. To uphold this vision, Baker College has established an Academic Integrity Philosophy.

In promoting this philosophy, all members of the Baker College academic community-students, faculty, and staff-commit to upholding values of honesty, trust, and accountability. It is our collective responsibility to foster mutual trust and ensure that all ideas and work are respected. Even in challenging circumstances, members of our academic community strive for consistency and professionalism. Demonstrating academic integrity involves taking personal responsibility for one’s work, making ethical decisions, and being accountable for one’s actions and choices. In the pursuit of academic integrity, all members of our community must embody attitudes and behaviors aligned with three core ideals.

The three critical core ideals essential to academic integrity are as follows:

1. Mutual Honesty, Trust, and Respect: Education thrives on the exchange and sharing of knowledge and ideas. As learning is a collaborative endeavor, all stakeholders at Baker College bear a reciprocal responsibility to uphold honesty, trust, and respect within the academic community.
2. Responsibility for Professional and Ethical Conduct: Academic integrity requires individuals to make personal, ethical commitments and be accountable for their behavior and work. Upholding academic integrity necessitates the acceptance of responsibilities inherent in one’s roles within the Baker College community.
3. Fairness, Transparency, and Exemplary Behavior: Fostering a culture of fairness requires ongoing dedication, sustained through consistent practice and unwavering professionalism, even in challenging circumstances. Students, faculty, and administration alike have the right to fair treatment and must work in each other’s best interests while adhering to practices that promote exemplary conduct, impartiality, and transparency.

To support the Baker College Academic Integrity Philosophy, the Academic Honor Code provides a framework ensuring an ethical, honorable, and responsible environment for all students. The College mandates that all work submitted for credit must be the result of students’ individual efforts. Acting honorably in an academic context encompasses more than mere honesty; academic dishonesty occurs whenever students compromise the institution’s academic integrity or seek an unfair advantage over others. Lack of awareness of the College’s honor code is not an acceptable excuse for prohibited conduct.

The following examples illustrate some instances of honor code violations, though the list is not exhaustive:

Cheating

• Using unauthorized materials such as books, notes, crib sheets, or electronic devices to answer examination questions
• Taking advantage of information considered unauthorized by one’s instructor regarding examination questions
• Copying another student’s homework, written assignments, examination answers, electronic media, or other data
• Assisting or allowing someone else to cheat

Plagiarism

• Representing the ideas, expressions, or materials of another without due credit
• Paraphrasing or condensing ideas from another person’s work without proper citation
• Failing to document direct quotations and paraphrases with proper citation

Other Forms of Academic Dishonesty

• Fraud, deception, and the alteration of grades or official records
• Changing examination solutions after the fact; inventing, changing, or falsifying laboratory data or research
• Reproducing or duplicating images, designs, or web pages without giving credit to the developer, artist, or designer
• Submitting work created for another course without instructor approval
• Misrepresenting oneself or one’s circumstance to gain an unfair advantage
• Collaborating with another person(s) without instructor approval
• Selling or providing term papers, coursework, or assignments to other students
• Purchasing, posting, uploading, using, or exchanging coursework, papers, tests, or assignments to/from an Internet site or any other third party without authorization from the College
• Using AI tools during in-class examinations, assignments, or in any other capacity unless explicitly permitted and/or instructed to do so

Sanctions for Violating the Academic Honor Code

Instructor Sanctions

• Assignment Failure
• Course Failure

Institutional Sanctions

• College Expulsion
• Revocation of Certificate or Degree

The determination of grades and a student’s standing in the course rests entirely with the instructor. Instructors may consult College administrators for guidance in identifying, investigating, and assessing potential patterns of dishonesty and severity. Additional sanctions from the institution may be imposed for honor code violations.

Students are not permitted to withdraw from a course in which the consequence for violating the academic honor code is a course failure. Appeals regarding assignment or final course grades solely aimed at overturning an academic dishonesty decision or sanction cannot be pursued.

All students found in violation of the honor code must complete the Judicial Educator Module before registering for further classes. Records of violations are maintained in student records, and additional disciplinary measures may be enacted.

Appeals against academic honor code sanctions are not permitted.

Returning to Baker College After Expulsion

Students who have been expelled from Baker College previously will have the opportunity to apply for readmission. After a period of four years or greater since the date of expulsion, a student wishing to return must submit an application to the College, along with a personal written statement explaining the circumstances surrounding their expulsion, their experiences that have allowed them to grow following that time, and what actions they have taken to be successful at Baker College moving forward. This application will be reviewed by a Baker College committee composed of the Vice President of Enrollment, the Vice President of Student Success and Engagement, and/or the Dean of Students to determine whether or not a formerly expelled student may return.

Acceptable Use Policy for Baker College Information Technology Resources

1. Resource Overview: Baker College provides a range of IT resources, including computers, data storage, mobile devices, networks, software, email services, electronic information sources, voicemail, telephone services, learning management systems, and other products and services.
2. Ownership and Purpose: These resources are the property of Baker College and are intended to support the institution’s objectives, including education, services, community engagement, and administrative functions.
3. User Base: IT resources are made available for use by faculty, staff, students, and courtesy affiliates.
4. Policy Purpose: The Acceptable Use Policy is designed to safeguard Baker College and its stakeholders by ensuring privacy, confidentiality, and the overall integrity of IT resources. A robust IT environment is vital for fulfilling Baker College’s mission and guiding principles.
5. Agreement to Policy: By utilizing Baker College resources, users agree to abide by the Acceptable Use Policy.

Applicability

1. Additional Rules on Campus: Some resources on campus, like classrooms and business systems, may have extra rules in addition to this policy. These rules will always align with this policy and might add more requirements or responsibilities for you.
2. Changes to Access: Baker College can restrict or limit access to resources at any time, even without telling you beforehand or asking for your consent.
3. How to Access the Policy: You can find this policy on the website, in the handbook, or in the catalog. It’s important to know and understand these rules to use Baker College resources responsibly.

General Authorized Usage Overview

1. Responsibility for User Activity: Users are granted access to IT resources and are accountable for all actions taken with their user IDs. It is your responsibility to safeguard your passwords and prevent unauthorized access to your accounts.
2. Prohibition of Inappropriate Use: Any use of Baker College resources that inaccurately or inappropriately represents support or affiliation with products, services, or organizations without written approval is strictly prohibited.
3. Personal Use at User’s Risk: Supplementary personal use of Baker College resources is permitted but done so at the user’s own risk. The College does not guarantee the continued operation, support, or security of IT resources for personal use.
4. Awareness of Policies and Regulations: Users are expected to familiarize themselves with Baker College policies and regulations governing the use of resources before utilizing them.
5. Respect for Privacy: Users must respect the privacy of others, including their usage, content, and identities, while utilizing Baker College resources.
6. Compliance with Laws and Policies: Users are required to comply with state, federal, and local laws, as well as Baker College policies. Additionally, you must adhere to any rules and regulations set forth by third parties.
7. Engagement in Safe Computing Practices: Users are expected to engage in safe and responsible security and computing practices to uphold the integrity of Baker College resources.

Inappropriate Usage

1. Private Business, Commercial Activities, Fundraising, or Advertising: Unless approved in advance, using College resources for private business, commercial activities, fundraising, or advertising for non-College purposes is strictly prohibited.
2. Adherence to Intellectual Property Laws: Users must adhere to copyright, trade secret, patent, or other intellectual property laws and regulations when utilizing College resources.
3. Prohibition of Unlawful Communications: Engaging in unlawful communications, including threats of violence, obscenity, child pornography, or harassing communication, is strictly prohibited. Such behavior will be reported to the local police department and/or Campus Safety immediately.
4. Unauthorized Access or Modification: Unauthorized access, modification, copying, or deletion of users’ accounts or resources, including files, is not allowed.
5. Prohibition of Disruptive Behavior: Users cannot use IT resources in a manner that disrupts the usage or activities of other users. This includes the introduction of malicious software or malware.
6. Unauthorized Connectivity: Unauthorized connectivity or access to Baker College resources is prohibited.
7. Interference with Networking: Interfering with the networking, including scanning, monitoring, intercepting, and altering network packets, is expressly prohibited.
8. Restriction on Political Activities: Baker College resources cannot be used to engage in partisan politics or promote/oppose ballot measures unless approved by the President/CEO.
9. Proper Authority for Access: Users cannot access Baker College resources without proper authority. This includes attempting to evade or circumvent user authentication or misrepresenting one’s identity or affiliation.

E-Mail and Electronic Communications

1. Access to Email: Your access to Baker College email is a privilege, but it can be restricted, either partially or entirely, without warning and without your consent.
2. Responsible Use: Activities that strain the email or network facilities are against the rules. This includes sending chain letters or mass emails without permission.
3. No Modifications: You’re not allowed to modify or forge any email information, including the header.
4. Confidentiality Risk: While we do our best to keep your emails private, we can’t guarantee confidentiality. So, avoid sending confidential, personal, financial, or sensitive information through email.

Social Media

At Baker College, we understand the significance of social media in our community. If you’re interested in creating an official Baker College page or group, you need approval from the College. You can find the social media application on my.baker.edu.

When you run an official page or group, you’re representing Baker College. Therefore, you must follow the expectations and policies outlined below. Any violation of these policies, regardless of scale or visibility, will be addressed. Just like with offline violations of Baker College’s Code of Conduct, disciplinary action may be taken. Any deviation from the policies, even if unintended, could lead to disciplinary action.

Student Organizations

All registered student organizations and pages will be regularly monitored by campus and departmental staff to make sure they follow these policies and guidelines.

When creating a page or group, make sure the description includes the following statement: “This page/group is not operated by an official representative of Baker College and, as such, the posts and opinions expressed here do not represent the opinions or policies of Baker College. Baker College is not responsible for any content posted here.”

Expectations

1. Respectful Interaction: Treat others with respect, even if they don’t reciprocate. Avoid making personal comments, criticisms, or attacks.
2. Appropriate Language: Ensure that all postings are free of inappropriate language or content, including ethnic slurs, personal insults, or obscenity.
3. Avoid Controversial Topics: Refrain from participating in inflammatory or sensitive topics, such as religious beliefs or political opinions, to maintain a positive online environment.
4. Accuracy and Citations: Be mindful of accuracy when sharing information and always cite reliable sources. Include links to any resources cited and promptly correct any mistakes.
5. Stay Within Your Expertise: Refrain from speaking outside your area of expertise. Direct questions to individuals who can provide accurate information.
6. Long-term Impact: Be aware that anything published online can have a long-lasting impact and may be accessible for many years, even if deleted.
7. Respect Copyright Laws: Respect all copyright and fair use laws when you share information online, including images or other content.
8. Avoid Endorsements: Do not provide endorsements or referrals for products or services on behalf of Baker College.
9. Balance Academic and Personal Responsibilities: Ensure that your online activities do not interfere with academic or personal responsibilities and maintain a healthy balance between online and offline activities.

Safety and Privacy

1. Always prioritize your privacy and safety online. Make sure your privacy settings are configured to protect your personal information. Avoid sharing sensitive details online and never ask others for their personal information.
2. Keep all your passwords secure and unique; never share them with anyone or write them down. Avoid using the same password for multiple sites or accounts. Remember to log out of sites after use and avoid using auto-login features.
3. If you suspect that your password has been compromised, change it immediately. Contact the support department of the relevant site or service if you suspect your account has been compromised.
4. Notify the IT Solutions Center (via email at itsc@baker.edu) immediately if you believe your password or account has been compromised. Report any threatening or abusive posts made on student groups/pages to Campus Safety and the IT Solutions Center. Be sure to capture a screenshot of the post and username before deleting it.
5. Multi-Factor Authentication is required for accessing any information system. It is highly recommended to register multiple authentication methods to prevent losing access to your account.
6. Inactive accounts will be disabled, so make sure to use your accounts regularly to avoid deactivation.

HIPAA and Social Media in Healthcare Settings

Baker College recognizes the importance of protecting the privacy of patients and confidentiality of their healthcare records under Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations, particularly for students in healthcare settings. HIPAA regulations are intended to protect patient privacy and confidentiality by defining individually identifiable information and establishing how this information may be used, by whom, and under what circumstances. Individually identifiable information includes any information that relates to the past, present, or future physical or mental health of a person that could be used to identify them. Students have the following responsibilities:

1. Safeguard Patient Information: Students in healthcare settings have specific responsibilities to safeguard patient information. They must protect the confidentiality of any information they encounter during treatments or interactions with patients.
2. Limited Disclosure: Patient information should only be disclosed to other members of the healthcare team when necessary for providing care, and with the patient’s informed consent (unless legally required, or when failure to disclose information could result in significant harm). 
3. Social Media Awareness: Students need to be aware of the potential consequences of disclosing patient-related information on social media platforms. Any violation of clinical affiliates’ policies or relevant state and federal laws regarding patient privacy can have serious repercussions.
4. Professional Standards: Adherence to professional standards regarding patient privacy and confidentiality is paramount. Students must understand and comply with these standards in all aspects of their interactions with patient information, including social and electronic media.

FERPA and Social Media in Educational Settings

1. Confidentiality: If you’re training to become a teacher, it’s crucial to understand the importance of maintaining the privacy of educational records. As a future educator, you’ll be entrusted with sensitive information about students and their families. It’s your responsibility to keep this information confidential and to only use it for professional purposes.
2. Professional Conduct: It’s essential to maintain professionalism both inside and outside of the school building. Avoid negative discussions about students, staff, or the school in any setting. Refrain from discussing students by name except when necessary for professional purposes. By respecting student privacy and maintaining professionalism, you contribute to a positive and supportive learning environment for everyone.

Privacy

1. Data Ownership: While privacy is valued, Baker College asserts its ownership of data created or stored on its resources. Users should understand that any data generated within the College’s systems belongs to the institution.
2. Respect for Privacy: Users are expected to uphold the privacy of others and refrain from disclosing personal data about faculty, staff, or fellow students without authorization.
3. Trustworthy Management: Authorized individuals within Baker College’s IT environments are tasked with managing resources in a manner that promotes user trust. This implies handling data responsibly and ensuring confidentiality.
4. Monitoring and Maintenance: While the College doesn’t routinely monitor individual usage, certain activities like data backup, logging, and monitoring are necessary for normal operations. Baker College reserves the right to access resources for maintenance purposes, including addressing security events, to maintain the integrity and functionality of its IT infrastructure.

Operational Security

1. Proactive Measures: The College reserves the right to take any necessary action, including monitoring and scanning resources, without prior notice to users, to protect its interests and ensure IT resource stability and security.
2. Risk Mitigation: Baker College acknowledges that third-party intrusions, viruses, and physical access can pose security threats. The institution takes reasonable precautions to minimize these risks.
3. Incident Reporting: Users are required to promptly report any known or suspected incidents, such as security breaches or policy violations, to the designated email address: abuse@baker.edu. This reporting helps the College address and mitigate potential threats effectively.

Enforcement

1. Privilege, not a Right: Access to Baker College IT resources is considered a privilege, and users must adhere to the policy guidelines. Violations can result in limitations, suspension, or termination of access.
2. Enforcement and Reporting: The IT Executive Team will address alleged policy violations, and incidents may be reported to law enforcement if necessary.
3. Disciplinary Action: Users who violate the policy, other College policies, or external laws may face disciplinary action and/or penalties.
4. Appeal Process: If a user’s access is limited or suspended due to a policy violation, they have the right to appeal the decision to the System’s executive committee.