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University Policy on Class Absence
Two basic rules apply to all excused absences, whether excused because of a University policy or at the instructor’s discretion. (1) Students must still meet all class requirements. (2) Instructors must offer reasonable assistance in making up missed work (e.g., making arrangements for attendance at labs or discussion sessions which meet at other times; providing makeup exams or labs where feasible).
University Policy on Class Absence for Religious Observances
State law requires that the University excuse any student who is unable to attend classes or participate in any examination, study, or work requirement because of religious observance, and allow students the right to make up such examination, study, or work requirement without any adverse or prejudicial effects. The law also provides that such makeup work may not create an unreasonable burden upon the University. Students have an obligation to inform their course instructors, in advance, of the days on which they will be absent for religious reasons. Students should inform their course instructors in writing of the days they will be absent as early in the semester as possible and always prior to the day(s) on which they will be absent for religious reasons. Instructors, if they feel that it is important for course planning, have the right to require students to provide a written list of such days within one full calendar week after students' enrollment in the course, provided that the instructors list this requirement and deadline on the course outline or other handouts.
For further information on class absence and major days of religious observance, consult the Campus Policy on Class Absence for Religious Observances Web page.
Athletics Events
Required participation in athletic events which conflict with scheduled classes is verified by the Athletic Department (545-4379). Students should inform instructors as soon as possible of an event for which they will be absent from class.
Field Trips
Field trips and performances can be verified by the department requiring a student to participate. Other scheduled activities for students are usually verified by the office or department scheduling the activity. Students should inform instructors of pending absences as soon as they are aware of the schedule conflict.
Health Reasons
Instructors may verify that a student has been seen by University Health Services by calling 577-5114 with the student's name, ID number and date the student was absent from class. For students who are treated off campus, instructors may require written verification, within the limits of the health care provider’s policy, from the attending physician. Where possible, students should notify faculty in advance if they will miss a class because of illness, injury or medical treatment. Students should be aware that they can leave a message at a department office or on an instructor’s voice mail to explain an absence the day it occurs, if possible.
Other Extenuating Non-Academic Reasons
This category includes other valid excuses for missing class, including family illness or death, personal problems or unforeseen circumstances (e.g., automobile accident). While the policy states that instructors have the right to require written verification of students’ absences for such reasons, this is difficult to achieve in many circumstances. We offer several suggestions to cover a number of potential excuses. For court appearances, jury duty, or other legal activity, a copy of the appropriate legal document should be provided. If an absence is attributed to the death of a person close to the student, an instructor can request a copy of the obituary or death notice, and some evidence of the student’s relationship to the deceased. (Instructors should be aware, however, that in a situation of genuine grief and loss, this request is usually perceived as quite callous, or even outrageous, though this is not the instructor’s intent.) Many extenuating non-academic reasons for absence are not documentable, and instructors have to use their best judgment in evaluating student excuses. Where students or family members notify the Dean of Students Office of extended absences, the Dean of Students Office will notify instructors. If instructors have concerns about a particular case and need advice on how to handle it, they may telephone either the Dean of Students Office (545-2684) or the Provost’s Office (545-2554) for advice.
See the Academic Regulations handbook. [downloadable file]
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