Baylor College of Medicine
School of Health Professions
Student Handbook
Revised June 2022
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Baylor College of Medicine
School of Health Professions
Student Handbook
Revised 06/01/2022
Student Handbook
Baylor College of Medicine
School of Health Professions
As a student enrolled in the Baylor College of Medicine School of Health Professions’ academic programs,
you should be knowledgeable of the College’s policies, rules, regulations, and administrative procedures
that affect you. This Student Handbook provides guidelines and policies for all Health Professions students
as well as specific information for your particular academic program. Students are responsible for all the
information presented in this Handbook.
While every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of information, Baylor College of Medicine reserves
the freedom to change, without notice, degree requirements, curriculum, courses, teaching personnel,
rules, regulations, tuition, fees, and any other information published herein. This publication is not to be
regarded as a contract.
Further information can be obtained from personnel in the following locations:
Office of Student Services School of Health Professions
Baylor College of Medicine Baylor College of Medicine
One Baylor Plaza One Baylor Plaza, MS BCM115
Cullen Bldg., Room 415SA DeBakey Bldg., Suite M108
Houston, Texas 77030 Houston, Texas 77030
(713) 798-6950 (713) 798-4613
Doctor of Nursing Practice Program Orthotics & Prosthetics Program
(Nurse Anesthesia) Baylor College of Medicine
Baylor College of Medicine One Baylor Plaza, MS BCM115
One Baylor Plaza, MS BCM115 DeBakey Bldg., Suite M108
Debakey Building, Suite M108 Houston, Texas 77030
(713) 798-8650 (713) 798-3098
Physician Assistant Program Genetic Counseling Program
Baylor College of Medicine Baylor College of Medicine
One Baylor Plaza, MS BCM115 One Baylor Plaza, MS BCM115
DeBakey Bldg., Suite M108 DeBakey Bldg., Suite M108
Houston, Texas 77030 Houston, Texas 77030
(713) 798-3663 (713) 798-5400
Baylor College of Medicine admits students of any race, sex, religion, marital status, sexual orientation,
color, national or ethnic origin, disability, or age to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally
accorded or made available to students at the school. College policy prohibits discrimination on the basis
of race, color, age, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran
status, disability or genetic information in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies,
scholarship and loan programs, athletic and other school-administered programs.
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Baylor College of Medicine
School of Health Professions
Student Handbook
Revised 06/01/2022
NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION
Baylor College of Medicine is committed to a safe and supportive learning and working environment for its
learners, faculty and staff. College policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion,
gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or genetic
information. Harassment based on any of these classifications is a form of discrimination and also violates
College police (02.2.25, 02.2.26) and will not be tolerated. In some circumstances, such discriminatory
harassment also may violate federal, state, or local law.
If you believe that you have experienced or observed discrimination or harassment based on gender, gender
identity or expression, or sexual orientation, please contact the College’s Title IX Coordinator.
Title IX Coordinator
Office of Institutional Diversity & Inclusion One Baylor Plaza – Main Campus
Cullen Building, Suite 415A
MailStop: BCM119
Houston, Texas 77030
Phone: 713.798.4346 Email: title-ix@bcm.edu
If you believe that you have experienced or observed discrimination or harassment based on race, color,
age, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, or genetic information, please contact the College’s
Employee Relations Team in the Office of Human Resources.
Employee Relations Team, Office of Human Resources
Phone: 713.798.4346 Email: employeerelations@bcm.edu
To make a report outside of the College you may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of
Education’s Office of Civil Rights (OCR).
TEXAS LOCATION: NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS:
Office for Civil Rights U.S. Department of Education
U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights
1999 Bryan St., Suite 1620 Lyndon Baines Johnson
Dallas, Texas 75201-6810 Department of Education Bldg.
Telephone: 214.661.9600 400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Fax: 214.661.9587; TDD: 800.877.8339 Washington, DC 20202-1100
Email: OCR.Dallas@ed.gov
Telephone: 800.421.3481
FAX: 202.453.6012; TDD: 800.877.8339
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Baylor College of Medicine
School of Health Professions
Student Handbook
Revised 06/01/2022
Table of Contents
BCM History and Mission ........................................................................................................................... 7
Diversity ............................................................................................................................................... 7
Student Rights ..................................................................................................................................... 7
Compact Between Teachers, Learners, and Educational Staff .......................................................... 8
Code of Conduct .................................................................................................................................. 9
Outside Speakers ................................................................................................................................ 9
Fundraising Policy ............................................................................................................................... 9
Distance Education Policy ................................................................................................................... 9
School of Health Professions
Mission
................................................................................................................................................. 9
Definition of “Health Professions” ........................................................................................................ 9
Governance ......................................................................................................................................... 9
Accreditation ...................................................................................................................................... 10
Administration, Faculty, and Staff ...................................................................................................... 10
The SHP Student Handbook includes the following excerpts from the BCM School of Health Professions
Academic & Administrative Policies, Procedures, and Operational Guidelines
Article 2. Academic Governance
2.1 Health Professions Education Executive Committee
........................................................ 14
2.2 Health Professions Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee ....................................... 14
2.3 Health Professions Curriculum Committee ....................................................................... 14
2.4 Health Professions Student Promotions Committee ......................................................... 14
2.5 Health Professions Faculty Appointments and Promotions Committee ........................... 14
2.6 Health Professions Awards Committee ............................................................................. 15
2.7 Program Executive Committees ........................................................................................ 15
2.8 Program Admissions Committees ..................................................................................... 15
Article 5. Health Professions Students
5.1 Admissions
........................................................................................................................ 17
5.2 Non-discrimination Policy .................................................................................................. 17
5.3 Background Checks .......................................................................................................... 17
5.4 Enrollment ......................................................................................................................... 18
5.5 Tuition and Fees ................................................................................................................ 18
5.6 Falsification of Admission Application ............................................................................... 18
5.7 Attendance ........................................................................................................................ 18
5.8 Attendance – Clinical Curriculum ...................................................................................... 18
5.9 Leave of Absence .............................................................................................................. 18
5.10 Withdrawal from the College ............................................................................................. 19
5.11 Reinstatement of Student Previously Dismissed or Voluntarily Withdrawn ...................... 19
5.12 Credit Hour Assignment .................................................................................................... 19
5.13 Grading and Grading Policies ........................................................................................... 20
5.14 Transcripts ......................................................................................................................... 23
5.15 Student Records ................................................................................................................ 23
5.16 Release of Information ...................................................................................................... 23
5.17 Student Grievance Policy .................................................................................................. 23
5.18 Technical Standards for Admission and Graduation ......................................................... 25
Section 1
Section 2
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School of Health Professions
Student Handbook
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Article 6. Student Services
6.1 Policy on Harassment
....................................................................................................... 27
6.2 Students with Disabilities................................................................................................... 28
6.3 Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence ......................................................................... 28
6.4 Academic Advising, Career Advising, Tutoring ................................................................. 29
Article 7. Student Wellness
7.1 Student Health Insurance
.................................................................................................. 29
7.2 Personal Responsibility ..................................................................................................... 29
7.3 Infection Control ................................................................................................................ 29
7.4 Institutional Policy on AIDS ............................................................................................... 29
7.5 Standard Precautions ........................................................................................................ 30
7.6 Health Requirements and Services ................................................................................... 30
7.7 Training.............................................................................................................................. 30
7.8 BCM Student and House Staff Mental Health Service ...................................................... 30
7.9 Substance and Alcohol Abuse Policy ................................................................................ 31
Article 8. Regulations Concerning Conduct
8.1 Academic Rules
................................................................................................................ 32
8.2 Non-Academic Rules ......................................................................................................... 33
8.3 Disorderly Assembly .......................................................................................................... 33
8.4 Prohibited Conduct ............................................................................................................ 33
8.5 Personal Electronic Devices ............................................................................................. 34
8.6 Falsification of College Records ........................................................................................ 35
8.7 Requirement to Report Arrests or Convictions Immediately ............................................. 35
8.8 Review of Student Behavior .............................................................................................. 35
8.9 Acceptable Use Policy ....................................................................................................... 35
8.10 Use of Health Professions Student Direct Lists ................................................................ 36
8.11 Use of Copyrighted Materials ............................................................................................ 36
Article 9. Faculty Review of Student Performance
9.1 Academic Standards
......................................................................................................... 37
9.2 Review of Didactic Performance ....................................................................................... 37
9.3 Review of Clinical Performance ........................................................................................ 37
9.4 Review of Professional Behavior ...................................................................................... 37
9.5 Suspension of Clinical Privileges ...................................................................................... 38
9.6 Health Professions Student Promotions Committee ......................................................... 38
9.7 Academic Performance ..................................................................................................... 38
9.8 Policies and Procedures Concerning Rights, Responsibilities, and Appeals to
SHP Student Promotions Committee Actions ................................................................... 39
9.9 Actions, Sanctions, and Appeals Regarding Student Performance .................................. 39
Article 10. Academic Standards for Financial Aid Eligibility
10.1 Time limits on Financial Aid Eligibility
............................................................................... 40
10.2 Grade Requirements ......................................................................................................... 41
10.3 Appeals of Financial Aid Probation or Suspension ........................................................... 41
10.4 Compliance ....................................................................................................................... 42
10.5 Institutional Refund Policy ................................................................................................. 42
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Baylor College of Medicine
School of Health Professions
Student Handbook
Revised 06/01/2022
Section 1
Baylor College of Medicine
History & Mission
Diversity
Student Rights
Compact Between Teachers, Learners, and Educational Staff
Code of Conduct
Outside Speakers
Fundraising
Distance Education
School of Health Professions
Mission & History
Governance
Accreditation
Administration, Faculty, Staff
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Baylor College of Medicine
School of Health Professions
Student Handbook
Revised 06/01/2022
Baylor College of Medicine
History: Baylor College of Medicine, a private medical school, was chartered by the State of Texas in
1900 and organized as the University of Dallas Medical Department, an independent, nonsectarian
institution. In 1903, it became affiliated with Baylor University in Waco as Baylor University School of
Medicine. The College moved to Houston in 1943 and became the nucleus of the Texas Medical Center.
Baylor College of Medicine separated from Baylor University in 1969 and became an independent
corporation.
Mission: Baylor College of Medicine is a health sciences university that creates and applies science and
discoveries to further education, healthcare, and community service locally and globally.
Diversity: Baylor College of Medicine fosters diversity among its students, trainees, faculty and staff as a
prerequisite to accomplishing our institutional mission, and setting standards for excellence in training
healthcare providers, promoting scientific innovation, and providing patient-centered care.
• Diversity, respect, and inclusiveness create an environment that is conducive to academic
excellence, and strengthens our institution by increasing talent, encouraging creativity, and
ensuring a broader perspective.
• Diversity helps position Baylor to reduce disparities in health and healthcare access and to better
address the needs of the community we serve.
• Baylor is committed to recruiting and retaining outstanding students, trainees, faculty and staff from
diverse backgrounds by providing a welcoming, supportive learning environment for all members
of the Baylor community.
Student Rights: Baylor College of Medicine is committed to creating an environment for students that is
conducive to academic success and academic freedom commensurate with all applicable laws and
regulations. As students are not only members of the Baylor academic community but are also members of
society as a whole, Baylor works to ensure that all rights, protections, and guarantees that students are
assured as citizens of society are also provided to them within Baylor.
Baylor College of Medicine’s Statement of Student Rights aligns with the College’s mission as a health
sciences university that creates knowledge and applies science and discoveries to further education,
healthcare, and community service locally and globally. These rights embody our values of respect, integrity,
innovation, teamwork, and excellence, our vision to improve health through science, scholarship and
innovation and our adherence to the Institutional Code of Conduct.
Students have the right to freedom of expression within an atmosphere of culturally responsive
inclusiveness and sensitivity. The free dissemination of ideas is key to promoting the academic,
personal, and professional growth of Baylor students.
Students have the right to a safe learning environment that is free of discrimination, violence, and
harassment. Baylor seeks to provide a community of respect, open communication, collaboration,
and inclusiveness.
Students have the right to due process in incidents of alleged student mi
sconduct and have the
right to appeal decisions in this regard. Baylor strives to guarantee accuracy in academic results
and decisions.
Students have the right to confidentiality of education records. Explicit written confidentiality policies
and procedures are in place to achieve the protection of all personal information and academic
records.
Baylor College of Medicine supports a healthy balance of study or work and parenting. The institution
recognizes the importance of breastfeeding for the health of both mother and child, and actively supports
women who breastfeed while continuing employment or study. The full policy is available in the BCM Policy
and Procedure Manual.
https://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=02.2.50
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Baylor College of Medicine
School of Health Professions
Student Handbook
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Compact between Teachers, Learners, and Educational Staff
Learners pursuing a professional career at Baylor College of Medicine assume responsibility to develop in-
depth knowledge, acquire and apply special skills, and demonstrate professionalism. Teachers guide and
educate learners, and model appropriate attitudes, interpersonal skills and professional behaviors. Core
educational staff support both learners and teachers. This Compact serves both as a pledge and a reminder
to teachers, learners, and educational staff that moral, ethical and professional behavior by all Baylor
personnel is essential to the basic principles of this institution.
Guiding Principles of the Educational Compact
DUTY All participants in the education mission have a duty to sustain a learning environment
conducive to maintaining the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary for providing
contemporary standards of professional behavior.
INTEGRITY All education participants/parties will behave in a manner that reflects individual and
institutional commitment to intellectual and moral excellence.
RESPECT Fundamental to the ethic of professions is respect for every individual. Mutual respect
between learners, as newer members of the profession, and their teachers, as experienced
professionals, is essential for nurturing that ethic. In addition to individual respect, all
educational parties must respect and follow established professional policies.
As a teacher, I pledge to:
• Maintain currency in my professional knowledge and skills
• Ensure excellence of the educational curriculum
• Be a Model of professionalism in all of my interactions with faculty, learners, patients, colleagues, and
staff
• Respect all faculty, learners, patients, colleagues, and staff as individuals, without regard to gender,
age, race, national origin, religion, or sexual orientation; and oppose observed disrespect or bias
• Nurture learner commitment to achieve personal, family, and professional balance
• Recognize and acknowledge expressions of professional attitudes and behaviors as well as the
achievement of quantifiable academic excellence
• Respond vigorously to unprofessional behavior and indications of abuse or exploitation of faculty,
learners, patients, colleagues, or staff
• Create a safe environment in which individuals can communicate any concern about breaches of this
compact
• Accept responsibility for instilling these attributes in learners and faculty for whom I have
responsibility
As a learner, I pledge to:
• Acquire the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors necessary to fulfill all established educational
objectives
• Embody the professional virtues of integrity, empathy, altruism, compassion, respect, honesty,
courage, and trustworthiness
• Respect as individuals, without regard to gender, race, national origin, religion, or sexual
orientation, all patients, peers, faculty and staff
• Uphold the highest professional standards and conduct myself accordingly in all interactions with
patients, peers, faculty and staff
• Assist my fellow learners in meeting their professional obligations, while fulfilling my own obligations as
a professional
• Help create a safe environment in which individuals can communicate any concern about breaches of
this compact
As Educational Staff, I pledge to:
• Maintain currency in my professional knowledge and skills
• Help ensure excellence of the educational curriculum
• Embody professionalism in all of my interactions with faculty, learners, patients, colleagues, and staff
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Baylor College of Medicine
School of Health Professions
Student Handbook
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• Respect all faculty, learners, patients, colleagues, and staff as individuals, without regard to gender, age,
race, national origin, religion, or sexual orientation; and oppose observed disrespect or bias
• Help create a safe environment in which faculty, learners, and staff can communicate any concern
about breaches of this compact
Code of Conduct: The Code of Conduct defines Baylor College of Medicine’s long-standing commitment
to integrity and defines the professional and ethical ways in which we work with one another. The Code of
Conduct also includes our expectations for ethical behavior, respect, work within teams and the day-to-
day of each person at Baylor College of Medicine. Information regarding the Code of Conduct can be
found by visiting the webpage https://www.bcm.edu/about-us/compliance.
Outside Speakers: Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) students or student groups may from time to time
invite outside speakers to address BCM functions. Outside speakers must be approved in advance by the
Dean or designee. The names and credentials of proposed speakers, purpose of the presentation, and
proposals for any costs such as travel, expenses, and honoraria, must be presented to the Dean or
designee for review and approval at least three weeks prior to the event. All outside speakers will be
required to meet the professional standards expected of BCM faculty, with evidence-based presentations
when applicable and complete disclosure of funding and conflict of interest.
Fundraising Policy: BCM publishes a fundraising policy to ensure appropriate fundraising practices and
purposes at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM).
http://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=17.1.03
https://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=17.1.07
Distance Education Policy: BCM publishes a long- distance education policy to ensure the
institution adheres to the standards set forth by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and state and federal regulations in regards to distance education.
http://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=23.1.10
School of Health Professions
History: The Division of Allied Health Sciences (DAHS) began in 1976 as a component of Baylor College of
Medicine’s (BCM) Department of Community Medicine. In 1988, the DAHS transferred to the Dean of
Medical Education’s Office. In 2005, the College’s Board of Trustees approved the conversion of DAHS to
an independent School of Allied Health Sciences whose name changed in 2018 to the School of Health
Professions (SHP). In 2007, the SHP was administratively positioned to answer directly to the Executive
Vice President and Executive Dean of the College. With the advent of the Provost’s office in 2014 the
Dean reported to the Provost. In 2020, with a change to the institutional bylaws, reporting reverted to the
President and Executive Dean, in alignment to reporting of Department chairs and Center Directors.
Mission: To promote the well-being of the people of Texas and beyond by educating outstanding health
professionals, providing quality health care services, and contributing to research to improve health
professions education and health care delivery.
Definition of “Health Professions”: The term “Health Professions” identifies a cluster of health
professions and educational programs that are administratively aligned as an academic unit of a school,
college or university. The health professions represented in each cluster vary across colleges,
universities, and governmental agencies. At Baylor College of Medicine, the “Health Professions” cluster
currently includes the disciplines of Genetic Counseling, Nurse Anesthesia, Orthotics and Prosthetics,
and Physician Assistant, which are administratively aligned within the School of Health Professions (SHP).
Governance: The School of Health Professions is an academic unit of Baylor College of Medicine. The
School is the academic home for health professions faculty, degree programs, and students. The faculty
and students are responsible for understanding and following current policies and procedures as
published in the SHP Student Handbook for each program, including periodic updates. Faculty and
students are notified of updates to the SHP Student Handbook via email.
The academic policies of the School are established by the College and the Health Professions Education
Executive Committee (EEC). Health Professions Admissions, Curriculum, Student Promotions and
Academic Achievement, and Faculty Appointments and Promotions Committees report annually to the
EEC. The EEC founded a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion subcommittee that also reports annually. These
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Baylor College of Medicine
School of Health Professions
Student Handbook
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subcommittees and committees implement the College’s policies in their respective areas and recommend
new policies to the Health Professions EEC for consideration.
Accreditation: Baylor College of Medicine and the School of Health Professions Programs are accredited
as follows:
Baylor College of Medicine is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Commission on Colleges to award masters and doctorate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges
(1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA, 30033-4097; 404-679-4500) for questions about the accreditation
of Baylor College of Medicine.
Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (222 S. Prospect Ave., Park Ridge, IL,
60068; 847-655- 1160). The DNP Program—Nurse Anesthesia is accredited through May 2024.
Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (12000 Findley Road, Suite
150, Johns Creek, GA, 30097; 770-476-1224). The Physician Assistant Program is accredited through
June 2029.
Commission on Accreditation of Health Professions Education Program (1361 Park Street, Clearwater, FL,
33756; 727-210- 2350). Master’s programs in Orthotics and Prosthetics are accredited by CAAHEP. The
program is accredited through March 2025.
Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (PO Box 15632, Lenexa, KS, 66285; 913-222-8668). The
Genetic Counseling Program was granted new program accreditation status on February 6, 2018.
Accreditation will remain in effect until a determination is made following the program’s application for Full
Accreditation in 2022.
B
aylor College of Medicine is legally authorized to grant degrees and grant credits toward degrees in the
State of Texas by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (P.O. Box 12788, Austin, TX, 78711;
512-427-6225). (Approved by Academic Council on November 15, 2004) (Approved by BCM Board of
Trustees on January 26, 2005)
(Approved by Health Professions Education Executive Committee on June 26, 2008) (Revisions approved
by Health Professions Education Executive Committee on June 7, 2002)
Administration and Faculty – The administration, faculty, and staff of the School of Health Professions
are listed below along with their telephone numbers and email addresses.
School of Health Professions
Dean (as of July 1, 2022)
Todd Reinhart, ScD todd.reinhart@bcm..edu
713-798-4613
Interim Dean (through June 30, 2022)
Ashley Mullen, Ph.D., MSAT, CPO ashley.mullen@bcm.edu
713-798-4312
Associate Dean for Evaluation and Research
Aimee Gardner, PhD aimee.gardner@bcm.edu
713-798-4613
Senior Business Operations Associate
Miya Lewis, MBA miya.lewis@bcm.edu
713-798-3645
Lead Coordinator, Business Operations
Jeannette Adams jlewis@bcm.edu
713-798-3447
Coordinator, Business Operations
Tonya Johnson tonya.johnson@bcm.edu
713-798-4680
Doctor of Nursing Practice Program (Nurse Anesthesia)
Director
Rachel Davis, DNP, CRNA rcdavis@bcm.edu
713-798-8650
Associate Directors
Megan Bullerwell, DNP, CRNA bullerwe@bcm.edu
713-798-8650
Aimee Langley, DNP, CRNA aelangle@bcm.edu 713-798-8650
Academic Faculty
Jessica Gaines, DNP, CRNA jessica.gaines2@bcm.edu
713-798-8650
Cora Rabe, DNP, CRNA cora.rabe@bcm.edu 713-798-8650
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James R. Walker, DNP, CRNA, FAAN jrwalker@bcm.edu 713-798-8650
Lead Coordinator, Program Management
Emily Hughes, MLS ehughes@bcm.edu
713-798-8650
Coordinator, Program Management
Ramona Miller ramonam@bcm.edu
713-798-8650
Genetic Counseling Program
Director
713-798-4569
Associate Director
Salma Nassef, MS, CGC salma.nassef@bcm.edu
713-798-8625
Research Coordinator
Rachel Franciskovich, MS, CGC rachel.franciskovich@bcm.edu
713-798-5400
Academic Faculty
Lindsay Burrage, MD, PhD burrage@bcm.edu
713-798-7554
Pilar Magoulas, MS, CGC plmagoul@texaschildrens.org 713-798-8321
Patti Robbins-Furman, MS, CGC pjrobbin@texaschildrens.org 832-828-1541
Sarah Scollon, MS, CGC scollon@bcm.edu 832-824-4685
Tammy Solomon, MS, CGC txsolomo@texaschildrens.org 832-828-3691
Coordinator, Program Management
Tasha Winfree tasha.winfre[email protected]du
713-798-5400
Orthotics & Prosthetics Program
Director (as of July 1, 2022)
Ashley Mullen, PhD, MSAT, CPO
ashley.mullen@bcm.edu
713-798-4312
Interim Director (through July 1, 2022)
Sally Kenworthy, MPO, CPO, LO
sally.dibello@bcm.edu
713-798-5411
Associate Directors (as of July 1, 2022)
Lisa Abernethy, MSPO, CPO
lisa.abernethy@bcm.edu
713-798-3151
Jeremy Sherman, MS, CPO
jeremy.sherman@bcm.edu
713-798-1631
Academic Faculty
Megan Glahn, MS, CPO
megan.glahn@bcm.edu
713-798-3272
Jared Howell, MS, CPO
jaredh@bcm.edu
713-798-3093
Amandi Rhett, MS, CPO
amandi.rhett@bcm.edu
713-798-8015
Fanny Schultea, MSOP, MSED, CP/L
fanny.schultea@bcm.edu
713-798-3098
Senior Coordinator, Program Management
Liz Haecker
lizh@bcm.edu
713-798-3098
Coordinator, Business Operations
Jannette Cruz
jannette.cruz@bcm.edu
713-798-3098
Physician Assistant Program
Director
Elizabeth Elliott, MS, PA-C elliot@bcm.edu
713-798-4772
Associate Directors
Valerie DeGregorio, MS, PA-C valerie.degregorio@bcm.edu
713-798-6485
Vicki Waters, MS, PA-C vwaters@bcm.edu 713-798-8556
Medical Director
Jonnae Atkinson, MD joatkins@bcm.edu
713-798-3663
Academic Faculty
Jayne Chirdo-Taylor, MS, PA-C Jayne.chirdotaylor@bcm.edu
713-798-4315
Katherine Erdman, MPAS, PA-C kerdman@bcm.edu 713-798-5632
Sarah-Ann Keyes, MS, PA-C sarah-ann.keyes@bcm.edu 713-798-8757
Elisabeth Shell, PhD, PA-C elisabeth.shell@bcm.edu 713-798-2389
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Kathleen Thompson, MPAS, PA-C parks@bcm.edu 713-798-2396
Program Management Associate
Leah Oren-Palmer, MBA, MLIS leah.oren-palmer@bcm.edu
713-798-3341
Senior Coordinator, Program Management
Kavata Robinson, MBA kavata.robinson@bcm.edu
713-798-4394
Coordinator, Program Management
Diana Rangel diana.rangel@bcm.edu
713-798-4489
Senior Coordinator, Business Operations
Yvonne Baier cbaier@bcm.edu
713-798-5821
Senior Coordinator, Business Operations
Angelica Almarez angelica.almarez@bcm.edu
713-798-5002
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Baylor College of Medicine
School of Health Professions
Student Handbook
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Section 2
Academic and Administrative Policies,
Procedures, and Operational Guidelines
School of Health Professions
(Approved by Academic Council on November 15, 2004)
(Approved by BCM Board of Trustees on January 26, 2005)
(Approved by Health Professions Education Executive Committee on June 26, 2008)
(Revisions approved by Health Professions Education Executive Committee on June 8, 2022)
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Article 2. Academic Governance
The SHP academic governance is based on College policies and procedures and administered through the
Health Professions Education Executive Committee, an institutional committee of the College, and through
its four school committees that are appointed by the Dean, and the program executive and admissions
committees appointed and chaired by each Program Director.
Article 2.1 Health Professions Education Executive Committee – The Health Professions
Education Executive Committee (EEC) is a Committee of the School of Health Professions. The
Executive Committee is designed to advise the Dean to carry out implementation and management of
school and institutional priorities as determined by or delegated by the Dean as the chief institutional
officer of the SHP. These priorities pertain to strategic planning, governance, and administrative
operations such as are necessary to achieve the missions of the School and College and to comply with
applicable laws and regulations of the U.S. Government and/or the State of Texas and the standards of
institutional and program accreditors. The EEC advises the Dean in setting policies regarding the
governance of health professions programs that are consistent with Baylor’s Policies and Procedures and
Faculty Bylaws. The Executive Committee is chaired by the Dean, and includes Health Professions
Program Directors, chairs of the Health Professions Admissions, Curriculum, Student Promotions, and
Faculty Appointments and Promotions Committees, 3-4 BCM faculty members, at-large, with interest in
Health Professions programs, and 1-2 public members (as required by accrediting agencies).
Article 2.2 Health Professions Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. In July, 2020, the
Education Executive Committee established a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Subcommittee. The
Subcommittee is charged to propose priorities, strategies, and initiatives for SHP that will foster and
monitor the development and retention of a diverse and inclusive student body, staff, and faculty, aligned
to school and institutional values. Membership is by invitation of the Dean. In the spirit of inclusivity, all
SHP students, faculty, staff, and members of the EEC are invited to participate and other BCM personal
may also be members. In 2021, the subcommittee was designated a standalone committee.
Article 2.3 Health Professions Curriculum Committee – The Health Professions Curriculum
Committee provides review, guidance, evaluation, and documentation of proposed new curriculum
content and changes to existing curricula for educational program in the SHP. The Chair reports annually
to the Health Professions Education Executive Committee regarding major curricular revisions and results
of course assessments. The Committee’s membership is composed of Health Professions faculty and
students, an interdisciplinary cross section of BCM faculty members with teaching responsibilities in
Health Professions programs, and non-voting ex officio members representing other School of the
College and additional bodies, as approved by the Dean. Committee members are appointed by the Dean,
School of Health Professions, with input from the Health Professions program directors.
Article 2.4 Health Professions Student Promotions Committee – The Health Professions
Student Promotions Committee is charged with monitoring student academic performance. The
Committee ensures that each student satisfactorily completes each required course in the curriculum,
meets all criteria for promotion from year to year, and ultimately satisfies all the requirements for
graduation. The Health Professions Student Promotions Committee Chair reports to the Health
Professions Education Executive Committee regarding grading policies, assessment of academic
achievement, and other topics related to students’ academic progress. The Committee is composed of
Health Professions faculty and faculty, at large, who participate in activities of each Health Professions
program.
Article 2.5 Health Professions Faculty Appointments and Promotions Committee – The Health
Professions Faculty Appointments and Promotions Committee is SHP committee that evaluates
candidates for faculty appointments, promotions, and granting of tenure and makes recommendations to
the Health Professions Dean. The Committee is responsible to (1) assist the Dean in planning and
implementing policies and procedures for appointment and promotion of SHP faculty members, (2) create
guidelines, procedures, and processes for managing its duties, (3) review qualifications of individuals to be
recommended for appointments and/or promotions to associate professor and above in the SHP, and for
tenure promotions. The committee does not review appointments to instructor or assistant professor
level which are made at the discretion of the Dean, and (4) forward appointments and promotions
recommendations to the Dean.
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Article 2.6 Health Professions Awards Committee – The purpose of the Awards Committee is to
recognize excellence in education for the School of Health Professions by developing and monitoring
processes for award dissemination across the School and its programs. Nominees for membership will be
solicited from the Committee Chair and appointed by the Dean.
Article 2.7 Program Executive Committees – Each Health Professions program has a Program
Executive Committee responsible for developing program policies/procedures and curriculum, and for
evaluating all aspects of the program including its outcomes. The membership of each Program
Executive Committee is composed of program faculty and leadership, as well as other key stakeholders
for the program. The Program Director appoints and chairs the Program Executive Committee and reports
to the SHP Dean and other SHP committees, seeking policy approvals when necessary.
Article 2.8 Program Admissions Committees – The Health Professions Admissions Committee for
each academic program reviews and ranks each applicant who meets or exceeds the minimum
requirements for admission and who complete the admission interview process. The Committee submits
its rankings and recommendations for acceptance to the Dean. The Admissions Committees also make
recommendations to the Health Professions Education Executive Committee on policies concerning
applicants to the SHP. The Admissions Committees review admissions requirements as outlined in
application materials for accuracy and consistency. Each Admissions Committee is chaired by the
Program Director, or designee, who appoints its members from Health Professions faculty and students
and other BCM faculty members.
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Illustration 1: Academic Governance
School of Health Professions
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Article 5. Health Professions Students
Article 5.1 Admissions -- Students enrolled in SHP programs are selected after being screened by
Health Professions faculty members, interviewed by Health Professions and other College faculty
members and students, reviewed and ranked by the Health Professions Program Admissions Committee,
and officially accepted to the College by the Dean
.
Minimum admissions requirements for the SHP’s degree programs include the following:
•
a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college/university in the United States.
•
completion of specific course requirements (prerequisites).
•
an overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Candidates seeking admission to the
Physician Assistant Program must have a minimum overall 3.20 GPA.
•
competitive scores on the Graduate Record Examination. The GRE is not required for
admission to the Physician Assistant Program.
•
a completed application submitted on or before the published deadline for receipt of applications.
Additional program-specific admission requirements are published on each program’s website. Transfer
credit from other institutions will not be accepted (Reference: BCM Policy and Procedure Manual 23.1.05
http://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=23.1.05.
The Health
Professions Program Admissions Committee may grant advanced standing in accordance with program-
specific policies.
Article 5.2 Non-Discrimination Policy – The College and the SHP admit students without taking
into account age, ancestry, color, creed, gender, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual
orientation, veteran status or disability unrelated to educational requirements and apply its admissions
policies, educational policies, scholarship and loan programs and other school administered programs
accordingly.
Article 5.3 Background Checks – All applicants who receive an offer of admission must complete a
background check as a condition of matriculation in the SHP. The background check will include a
criminal records search, social security number trace, and professional license verification. Applicants
have the right to review the reported information for accuracy and completeness and to request that the
vendor verify that the background information provided is correct.
•
All applicants must complete a background check authorization form when requested. Admission
may be denied if an applicant refuses to sign the background check authorization form, omits
material facts on the form, or provides false information.
•
Any offer of admission will be contingent upon completion of the background check with results
deemed satisfactory. Admission may be denied or rescinded based on a review of the background
check report.
•
If a student is unable to participate in clinical rotations at the College’s affiliated clinical sites due
to criminal or other adverse activities that are revealed in a background check, he or she will not
be able to fulfill the program requirements. An offer of admission will be rescinded based on the
student’s inability to complete the curriculum.
The School of Health Professions will arrange for an outside vendor to conduct background checks and
assume the cost of this service. Reports issued directly to the SHP will be kept confidential at all times.
Background check reports will be reviewed by a committee comprised of the Dean of the SHP, the Assistant
Dean of the SHP, the matriculant’s Program Director and, as needed, a representative from the General
Counsel’s office. If the report does not contain any negative findings as determined by the committee, the
applicant will be allowed to enroll and participate in clinical rotations. If a report does contain negative
findings, the Program Director may request that the applicant submit additional information regarding the
negative finding. The Program Director, in consultation with the Dean, the Assistant Dean, and, as needed,
the College’s General Counsel, will review all information available and determine appropriate action.
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Article 5.4 Enrollment – All Health Professions students must enroll officially through the Registrar’s
Office. Students are encouraged not to be employed while concurrently enrolled in a SHP program.
Article 5.5 Tuition and Fees – Tuition and fees are set by the President each academic year.
Health Professions students are required to pay 2 - 3 years' tuition charges, based on the program in
which they are enrolled. Students who repeat coursework or otherwise extend their enrollment beyond
the typical length of their programs will be charged tuition and fees for each additional period of
enrollment. Title IV Federal financial aid recipients who meet degree requirements prior to the end of
the semester will be subject to the Return of Title IV Funds Policy. All other students will be subject to the
Institution's Refund and Repayment Policy.
http://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=23.1.04
The full tuition and fee assessment policy, including information regarding leaves of absence, is available in
the BCM Policy and Procedure Manual 23.1.02
http://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=23.1.02
A student on an approved leave of absence should also consult Article 7.1 regarding participation in the
student health insurance program while on leave.
Article 5.6 Falsification of Admission Application – Occasionally candidates make inaccurate
statements or submit false material in connection with their admissions application. In most cases, these
misrepresentations are discovered during the application process and the application is rejected. If the
misrepresentation is discovered after the candidate is admitted, the offer for admission is normally
withdrawn. If misrepresentation is discovered after a student is registered, the offer of admission normally
will be revoked, and the student will be required to leave the school. If the discovery is made after a
degree has been awarded, the degree may be rescinded. The determination that the application is
inaccurate or contains misrepresentation rests solely with the Dean and will be resolved outside the
student disciplinary process.
Article 5.7 Attendance – For students in good standing in didactic courses, attendance at lectures is
highly recommended, but not obligatory; however, laboratory and small group learning attendance may
be required. At departmental discretion, attendance in laboratory and conferences may be a factor in
deriving a student’s grade. Students who are repeating a course because of previous academic failure are
required to attend all lectures and labs of the course in question. If a faculty member in a department finds
that a student is not meeting attendance requirements, the student will be notified by the faculty of the
department in writing with a copy of the letter sent to the Program Director and the Dean. A student who
is on Academic Probation is required to attend all lectures, laboratory sessions, and conferences in the
curriculum. A student enrolled in an online course is required to participate in online course activities with
regular frequency.
Article 5.8 Attendance: Clinical Curriculum - Attendance during all aspects of clinical courses is
expected and considered an important part of the student’s responsibility and education, and may be an
important component in the evaluation of student performance. Students form an integral part of the
clinical team and are accorded active clinical roles based on the expectation that they will fulfill their
educational and patient care responsibilities. All students are required to be present on the first day of a
new clinical course. Participation in the orientation session of a new clinical course is mandatory since
important information regarding course expectations and procedures is covered on the first day. Requests
for exceptions must be arranged with the Program Director. Course expectations and attendance
requirements for clinical courses are determined and recorded by the department or clinical site. In
addition, students are expected to remain available to discharge clinical responsibilities until released
from duty on the final day of the applicable term.
Article 5.9 Leave of Absence – The Dean or Designee may approve a student Leave of
Absence upon the Program Director’s recommendation. Please see Baylor College of Medicine’s
Student Leave of Absence Policy
for conditions and definitions.
Please complete the School of Health Professions Leave of Absence Request form to begin the
Leave of Absence process.
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Article 5.10 Withdrawal from the College – A student who wishes to withdraw from the SHP must
personally meet with the Dean and/or the Program Director and submit a letter to the Dean requesting
withdrawal. When a student is referred to the HPSPC due to poor academic performance, the student
has two business days to request a withdrawal after meeting with their Program Director or designee. A
request to withdraw will not automatically be granted for a student who has been dismissed by action of
the SHP Student Promotions Committee (HPSPC) or whose dismissal is in the appeals process. The
HPSPC retains discretion in deciding to allow withdrawal or implement dismissal in these circumstances.
The office of the Dean and/or the Program Director will advise the student about the check-out process to
be completed within five business days. After five business days, the student who withdraws from a program
but has not completed the check-out process is considered withdrawn.
The official records of a student who is withdrawing or has been dismissed from the College will be placed
on hold until the check-out process is complete. The College will not release any official records until the
student has obtained the required signatures on the check-out form and returned it to the Program Director.
The student shall remain responsible for tuition and fees up to the date that the Program Director certifies
that the clearance process has been completed. Once the check-out process is deemed complete by the
Program Director and the Student Clearance From is processed by the Registrar’s Office, the hold will be
removed from the student’s records.
Article 5.11 Reinstatement of Students Previously Dismissed or Voluntarily Withdrawn A
student who wishes to be re-admitted to the College should apply to the respective program in the same
way as any new applicant. The respective program shall have available the student's entire permanent
record at the College. The Admissions Committee may request any additional information that might help
them in their decision. This might include documentation of additional academic and work experience,
medical and psychiatric data, etc.
This procedure is applicable to the following:
• Students dismissed for academic reasons
• Students dismissed for nonacademic reasons
• Students who have withdrawn from Baylor College of Medicine
Article 5.12 Credit Hour Assignment – Across all programs in the SHP, a Semester Credit Hour is
the academic unit used. Semester Credit Hour assignment is an institutionally established equivalency
determined as follows:
Academic credit awarded in semester hours. One hour serves as the base unit for awarding academic
credit. The program will monitor reasonable equivalency for semester hours across all courses.
Time spent in student instruction and learning. This time will receive the following academic credit:
1) One Semester Credit Hour of classroom learning = 15 hours of classroom
instruction and a minimum of 2 hours of out-of-class student work per hour of
classroom instruction.
2) One Semester Credit Hour of laboratory learning = 30 hours of laboratory
learning and a minimum of 1 hour of out-of-class student work per hour of
laboratory learning.
3) One Semester Credit Hour of distance learning or research = 45 hours of
learning activities comprised of both time spent online and student work off-
line.
4) One Semester Credit Hour of clinical learning = 100 hours of clinical time.
In order to align with clinical learning in the School of Medicine, the PA program
awards One Semester Credit Hour for every 40 hours of clinical learning.
Activities with multiple learning models. Credit hour assignment for courses using a combination of learning
modalities will follow the above criteria in a combined summative fashion.
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The Doctor of Nursing Practice program requires the successful completion of a minimum of 132 Semester
Credit Hours beyond the baccalaureate degree.
The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program requires a minimum of 56 Semester Credit Hours
for completion.
The Master of Science in Orthotics and Prosthetics program requires a minimum of 125.5 Semester Credit
Hours for completion.
The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program requires a minimum of 135 Semester Credit
Hours for completion.
School of Health Professions:
Number of Contact Hours Equal to 1 Semester Credit Hour
Type of Instruction Lecture Laboratory
Distance Learning or
Research
Clinical*
Contact Hours
15 30 45 100
Semester Credit
Hours
1 1 1 1
*The PA Program calculates clinical credit hours in alignment with the School of Medicine as outlined in
Section A.1.b of this policy.
The full policy is available in the BCM Policy and Procedure Manual.
http://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=23.1.11
Article 5.13 Grading and Grading Policies
Article 5.13.1 Assignment of Grades – Interim term grades are assigned for courses that continue into
the following term; final grades are not available until the course is completed. Individual departments and
course directors determine how to calculate course grades and the weight given to each component used
to compute interim and final grades. At the conclusion of each didactic and clinical course, the
department or course director shall render a final course grade for each enrolled student.
When any course has multiple scores that are computed/weighted to a final course grade, all decimal points
should be considered in calculating the final course grade. The final course grade is rounded to the nearest
whole number without decimals.
All grades are rendered as shown in Table 1, with the exceptions of specific courses identified below for
which grades are rendered as shown in Table 2. If all requirements have not been met for a course, or a
targeted remediation is offered but not completed, a grade of “Incomplete” (I) is assigned.
Table 1. Grade assignments and point values of SHP courses.
Grade
Score Range
Quality Points
Interpretation
A
90 – 100
4.0
Exceptional performance
B
76 – 89
3.0
Performance meeting expectations
C
70 – 75
2.0
Unsatisfactory performance (failure)
D
65 – 69
1.0
Unsatisfactory performance (failure)
F
0 – 64
0.0
Unsatisfactory performance (failure)
Grades for the following courses are to be rendered as shown in Table 2.
•
Clinical Biochemistry
•
Anatomical Science 1 & 2
•
Human Physiology 1 & 2
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•
Immunology for Health Professions (DNP and PA Students)
•
Medical Ethics (OP and PA Students)
•
Nervous System (DNP students)
Table 2. Alternate grade assignments and point values for selected SHP pre-clinical courses.
Grade
Score Range
Quality Points
Interpretation
A
90 – 100
4.0
Exceptional performance
B
70 – 89
3.0
Performance meeting expectations
C
65 - 69
2.0
Unsatisfactory performance (failure)
D
60 - 64
1.0
Unsatisfactory performance (failure)
F
0 – 59
0.0
Unsatisfactory performance (failure)
Article 5.13.2 Reporting of Grades – Course directors for all didactic and clinical courses report
interim and final scores in whole numbers to the appropriate Program Director. Following the completion
of exam week each academic term, Program Directors may release course grades with scores to
students. If a final course grade is rendered prior to exam week, program directors will determine the
appropriate time to release grades to the students. In the event a course is shared by students from
multiple programs, program directors must jointly determine the appropriate time to release grades to the
students. Each Program Director reports grades to the Registrar and maintains a cumulative grade sheet
that shows all interim and final grades by term for each student in the program.
Article 5.13.3 Course Grade Requirements – All courses require a final grade of B or better or pass if
the course is pass/fail. Any final grade lower than a B is a failing grade and the stipulations below under
“Final Grades” apply. Course directors may require an academic intervention designed to address less-
than-satisfactory performance on a learning or assessment activity within a given course, regardless of
whether that learning or assessment activity results in a passing or failing final course grade. When an
academic intervention for a learning or assessment activity is required, the highest score possible is the
minimum passing score for the learning or assessment activity.
All grades of Incomplete in pre-clinical courses must be replaced by passing grades before a student
enrolled in the DNP, OP, or PA program may progress to the clinical phase of their respective program.
This does not apply to students enrolled in the GC program, where clinical rotations (field placements) occur
in parallel with the didactic coursework.
An incomplete may be assigned in clinical courses where faculty have determined that remediation is
necessary and appropriate. The type and extent of remediation will be determined by the Program Director
with consideration of the individual student’s learning needs and patient safety. Students may only be
assigned two incompletes in clinical courses during the entire program (exclusive of incompletes in pre-
clinical courses). If student performance is less than passing in a third clinical course, a final grade of fail
will be assigned and the matter referred to the HPSPC. All grades of Incomplete must be replaced by
passing grades prior to graduation from an SHP program.
Article 5.13.4 Interim Grades
1.
All course grades must be A, B, C, D, or F. Course grades of pass or fail alone may not be used.
2.
All interim course grades that fall below a B result in a Letter of Jeopardy from the Program Director.
The purpose of this letter is to document that the program has informed the student of the interim
score and the requirement that performance must improve in order to pass the course. The letter
will remind the student about available educational support (e.g., meet with course director/faculty,
Program Director, Academic Success Center, Student Counseling Service).
3.
Interim grades that fall below the minimal passing requirement cannot be remediated.
Article 5.13.5 Final Course Grades
1. Students must achieve a final passing grade of B or better in all letter graded courses.
2. Only final course grades can result in formal academic action by the Program Director or HPSPC
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(e.g., academic probation, dismissal).
3. When a student achieves a final course grade of C, D, or F, the Course Director will evaluate for
areas of focused knowledge deficits.
a. If one area of focused knowledge deficit is identified, the Course Director may direct a
targeted remediation in the one area of weakness.
i. Targeted remediation will be coordinated with the Program Director.
ii. The Course Director reports a grade of incomplete (I) to the Program Director and
confers with the Program on a date the remediation will be completed.
iii. Successful targeted remediation results in the lowest passing grade in that course
being reported as a final grade to the Program Director.
iv. Unsuccessful targeted remediation results in the original failing grade being reported as
a final grade to the Program Director.
b. If more than one area of knowledge deficit is identified, the student is not eligible for targeted
remediation and the original failing grade (C, D, or F) is reported as a final grade to the
Program Director.
4. If a student has a single failing final course grade following unsuccessful targeted remediation or
more than one area of knowledge deficit was identified, the responsible Program Director places
the student on academic probation and arranges comprehensive remediation of the course.
a. Comprehensive remediation includes a course examination and/or clinical remediation
activities representing all course content areas.
i. Successful comprehensive remediation will result in the lowest passing grade in the
course being reported as a final course grade to the Program Director and will be
reflected on the student’s transcript.
ii. Failure of comprehensive remediation results in the original failing grade being reported
as a final course grade to the Program Director and will be reflected on the student’s
transcript. The Program Director will refer the matter to the HPSPC. The HPSPC may
require the student to repeat the course in its entirety, or other actions deemed
appropriate.
5. The Program Director can authorize comprehensive remediation of two failing final course grades,
provided they do not occur concurrently.
6. If a student has two or more concurrent failing final course grades, the responsible Program
Director places the student on academic probation, does not authorize remediation, and refers the
matter to the HPSPC with a recommended course of action. The recommendation, along with any
mitigating factor(s), will be considered by the HPSPC. The HPSPC will consider options deemed
appropriate, including dismissal.
7. If after successfully remediating two comprehensive failing final course grades, a student has a
third failing final course grade, the responsible Program Director places the student on academic
probation, does not authorize comprehensive remediation, and refers the matter to the HPSPC.
The HPSPC will consider dismissal unless other options are deemed appropriate due to mitigating
factor(s).
8. When a student is referred to the HPSPC, the student is required to meet with the Program Director
or designee within one business day of failure notification.
a. The Program Director will review policies and resources pertinent to the student’s situation.
b. The student will have an opportunity to disclose to the Program Director or designee any
mitigating factor(s) they wish the HPSPC to consider.
c. Mitigating factors known to the student and not disclosed at the time of the Program Director
or designee meeting may not be used to appeal the HPSPC’s final decision. Refer to
Student Appeals and Grievance Policy IV.D.1.a.
9. The student will have two business days following the meeting with Program Director or designee
to request a withdrawal from BCM. A request to withdraw will not automatically be granted for a
student who has been dismissed by action of the HPSPC or whose dismissal is in the appeals
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process. The HPSPC retains discretion in deciding to allow withdrawal or implement dismissal in
these circumstances.
Article 5.14 Transcripts – All final grades appear on transcripts. If all course requirements have not
been met, a grade of "I" (Incomplete) will appear on the transcript. When a completed course has been
failed, or remediation is not successful, the initial failing grade of C, D, or F becomes part of the official
transcript. When a course has been successfully remediated through targeted or comprehensive
remediation the transcript will show only the final grade, which will be the lowest possible passing grade (B)
in that course. When a course has been repeated in its entirety, that transcript will show both the original
failing grade and the grade achieved in the repeated course.
Article 5.15 Student Records – The College's policy regarding integrity, confidentiality, and retention
of student academic records is based upon practices recommended by the American Association of
American Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, accreditation requirements of the Southern
Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and the Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act. The full policy is available in the BCM Policy and Procedure Manual 23.1.06
http://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=23.1.06
Article 5.16 Release of Information – The College adheres to the Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act (FERPA) that affords students over 18 years of age certain rights with respect to their
education records.
1.
The right to inspect and review the student’s education record.
2.
The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes
are inaccurate or misleading.
3.
The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the
student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without
consent (directory information).
4.
The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by
the College to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
Students may request in writing that the College withhold their directory information from inquiring
educational sources. Directory Information includes but is not limited to: name, local address and telephone
number, major field of study, dates of attendance, class schedules, degrees granted and graduation dates,
class standing, and the College’s email address.
Official Grades may only be transmitted from the College to another institution through an official transcript
issued by the Office of the Registrar.
If a student requests a letter of recommendation, the individual faculty member may state only the official
grade received in the course and a narrative. Official grades are A, B, C, D and F. Departments and faculty
of College may not transmit any numerical grade to another institution or individual faculty member.
Program directors may transmit required numeric information at the request of the student to academic
institutions, licensing agencies, or other official entities.
P
rogram faculty will communicate with clinical sites, preceptors and/or coordinators regarding student
performance. This communication may be in verbal or written form.
Article 5.17 Student Grievance Policy – This Student Grievance Policy does not supersede policies
and procedures concerning student rights, responsibilities, and appeals (Articles 7.8 – 7.9). Moreover,
nothing in the policy supplants actions/decisions of the Health Professions Student Promotions
Committee. A student’s dissatisfaction with an examination or grade is not grounds for a grievance
against the faculty member who assigned the grade.
A grievance is a complaint arising out of any alleged unauthorized or unjustified act or decision by a member
of the faculty, administration, or staff that adversely affects the status, rights, or privileges of a member of the
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student body. The burden of proof shall rest with the complainant.
Student complaints or grievances should initially be addressed, if possible, by the student with the individual
(student, faculty, staff) most closely related to the grievance. If no resolution is established, the student
must ask her/his Health Professions Program Director for assistance. If the problem cannot be resolved
informally or with the assistance of the respective Health Professions Program Director, the student may
file a formal, written grievance with the Dean, SHP.
The full policy, including appeals procedures, is available in the BCM Policy and Procedure Manual.
http://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=23.1.08
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Article 5.18 Technical Standards for Admission and Graduation
Baylor College of Medicine School of Health Professions
Technical Standards for Admission and Graduation
It is the policy of Baylor College of Medicine that no person shall be denied admission to the school, or
awarded a degree from the school on the basis of any disability, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) of 1990 and section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, provided that the person demonstrates
ability to meet the minimum standards set forth herein. Baylor College of Medicine will reasonably
accommodate individuals with disabilities, provided that the standards required by the school of all
graduates and the integrity of the school’s curriculum are upheld. Mastery of essential skills is required of
all students.
These standards are developed as criteria to achieve the Doctor of Nursing Practice or Master of Science
degree in preparation for practice as a Genetic Counselor, Nurse Anesthetist, Orthotist/Prosthetist,
Physician Assistant. The faculty is equally cognizant of its responsibilities to patients who will be a part of
the educational process and to future patients who will entrust their welfare and lives to graduates of our
school. The safety of the patient, on whom the medical education process is largely focused, has been
given a primary consideration in developing these standards. Therefore, the faculty must carefully consider
the personal and emotional characteristics, motivation, industry, maturity, resourcefulness, and personal
health of the aspiring health care professional.
Abilities and Skills Requisite for Genetic Counseling, Nurse Anesthesia, Orthotist/Prosthetist, or
Physician Assistant Program Completion – A candidate for the Master of Science degree in either
Genetic Counseling, Orthotics and Prosthetics, or Physician Assistant Studies, or the Doctor of Nursing
Practice degree in Nurse Anesthesia must have abilities and skills in six essential areas: (1) observation, (2)
communication, (3) motor, (4) conceptual, integrative, and quantitative, (5) behavioral and social, and (6)
ethical. Technological compensation can be made for disabilities in certain of these areas, but a candidate
must be able to perform certain basic functions in a reasonably independent manner. The use of a trained
intermediary to observe or interpret information or to perform procedures is deemed to compromise the
essential function of the health care professional and may jeopardize the safety of the patient. The six areas
of abilities/skills are detailed as follows:
1.
Observation. The candidate must be able to:
a.
observe demonstrations and experiments in the basic sciences
b.
observe a patient accurately at a distance and close at hand
c.
discriminate variations in human responses to disease using visual, auditory, tactile, and other
sensory cues
d.
discriminate changes in monitoring devices and alarms using visual and auditory senses
2.
Communication. The candidate must be able to:
a.
communicate clearly, effectively, and sensitively in English through oral and written
methods in order to communicate with other health care providers and patients of all
ages
b.
speak, to receive information in oral form, and to observe patients in order to elicit
information, to describe changes in mood, activity and posture, and to perceive non-
verbal communications
3.
Motor. The candidate must have sufficient motor function to:
a.
elicit information from patients by palpation, auscultation, percussion, and other diagnostic
maneuvers
b.
execute motor movements reasonably required to provide general care and emergency
treatment to patients. Examples of general care and emergency treatment reasonably
required of Nurse Anesthetists and/or Physician Assistants include, but are not limited
to, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, airway management, vascular access, medication
administration, catheter insertions, suturing, application of pressure to stop bleeding,
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obstetrical maneuvers, etc. Examples of general care and emergency treatment
reasonably required of Orthotists/Prosthetists include, but are not limited to, safe patient
handling in transfers and during weight- bearing activities, and cardiopulmonary
resuscitation.
c.
coordinate gross and fine motor movements, equilibrium and functional use of the senses of
touch and vision
d.
Orthotist/Prosthetist candidates must be able to lift up to 25 pounds, operate power
tools safely, and manipulate materials and components to fashion devices for patient
use.
4.
Intellectual-Conceptual Integrative and Quantitative Abilities. The candidate must be able to:
a.
use reason, analysis, calculations, problem solving, critical thinking, synthesis, self-evaluation
and other learning skills to acquire knowledge, comprehend and synthesize complex
concepts
b.
independently access and interpret medical histories or files
c.
identify significant findings from history, physical examination, and laboratory data
d.
provide a reasoned explanation for likely diagnoses and prescribed medications, therapies,
and devices
e.
interpret information derived from auditory, visual, written, and other visual data to
determine appropriate patient management plans
f.
recall and retain information in an efficient and timely manner
g.
incorporate new information from peers, teachers, and the medical literature in formulating
diagnoses and plans
h.
identify and communicate knowledge to others when indicated
5.
Behavioral and Social Attributes. The candidate must possess the emotional health required:
a.
for full utilization of his/her intellectual abilities
b.
for the exercise of good judgment
c.
for the prompt completion of all responsibilities attendant to the diagnosis and care of patients
d.
for the development of mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients
e.
to tolerate physically taxing workloads
f.
to function effectively under stress
g.
to adapt to changing environments
h.
to function flexibly and effectively in stressful and rapidly changing situations
i.
to learn to function in the face of uncertainties and ambiguities inherent in the clinical
problems of many patients
j.
to employ compassion, integrity, concern for others, interpersonal skills, interest and
motivation
k.
to accept criticism and respond by appropriate behavior modification
l.
to use supervision appropriately, and act independently when indicated
m.
to demonstrate personal and professional self-control as well as tactfulness, sensitivity,
compassion, honesty, integrity, empathy, and respect
6.
Ethical Standards: The candidate must demonstrate professional demeanor and behavior and
must perform in an ethical manner in all dealings with peers, faculty, staff, and patients.
Certain disabilities can be accommodated without sacrificing the standards required by the school or
compromising the integrity of the curriculum. The school is committed to development of competitive
and qualified candidates with disabilities. At the same time, the school recognizes the essential need to
preserve the standards and integrity of the curriculum requisite for competent and effective practice as a
Genetic Counselor, Nurse Anesthetist, Orthotist/Prosthetist, or Physician Assistant. Questions about any
additional program-specific technical requirements should be addressed to the respective program director.
Since the treatment of patients is an essential part of the educational program, the health and safety of those
patients must be protected as a first priority.
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Article 6 Student Services
Baylor College of Medicine has designated certain College leaders as Responsible Employees based on
either their administrative title (Director Level and above) or responsibilities by serving in a major education
role. Responsible Employees have a duty to promptly report incidents of sex-based discrimination, and
Prohibited Conduct directly to the Title IX Coordinator. Additionally, Responsible Employees are not
confidential reporting resources. View a listing of groups of College administrators designated by Baylor
College of Medicine as Responsible Employees.
Article 6.1 Policy on Harassment –BCM prohibits sexual harassment or harassment of and by
faculty, staff, students, post-doctoral trainees, residents, fellows and non-employees. Violation of this policy
by an employee shall subject him/her to disciplinary action, up to and including discharge. Other available
remedies may be utilized for violation of this policy by a non-employee.
Harassment includes, but is not limited to:
•
Slurs
•
Jokes
•
Verbal, graphic, or physical conduct related to an individual's race, color, sex, religion, national
origin, age, physical or mental disability, or marital or veteran status.
Harassment also includes unwelcome sexual advances and requests for sexual favors from a party of the
same or different sex. These behaviors constitute harassment when submission is a condition of:
•
Employment
•
Promotion
•
Evaluation
•
Educational advancement
•
Submission to or rejection of such is used as the basis for employment or academic decisions.
BCM also prohibits retaliation against any faculty, staff, student, post-doctoral trainee resident, or fellow
who rejects, protests, or complains about harassment. Retaliation is a violation of College policy.
Complaints of harassment will receive prompt attention. Information obtained during the course of an
investigation of harassment will be maintained in a confidential manner to the extent possible and will be
shared only with individuals who have a need to know for the purposes of the investigation and resolution
of the complaint. Individuals who make false statements during the course of a harassment investigation
may be subject to discipline, which may include discharge. All faculty, staff, students, post-doctoral trainees,
residents, and fellows are expected to cooperate fully with such investigations. There will be no
discrimination, recrimination, or reprisal against any faculty, staff, students, post-doctoral trainees,
residents, or fellows for making a good faith report of harassment.
Any faculty, staff, students, post-doctoral trainees, residents, or fellows who believes that he, she or another
individual is being harassed in any manner by a supervisor, manager, co-work, customer, vendor or other
person should inform the alleged harasser that his or her actions are offensive, unwelcome, and/or
inappropriate and immediately bring the matter to the attention of his or her supervisor or any of the following
individuals:
•
Program Director of Doctor of Nursing Practice, Genetic Counseling, Orthotics and
Prosthetics, or Physician Assistant Program
•
Dean
•
Chairperson of the Committee on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment
•
Office of Student Affairs
•
Departmental Administrator
•
Direct Supervisor/Manager
•
Human Resources/Employee Relations or Vice President of Human Resources
•
Corporate Officers of BCM
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Article 6.2 Students with Disabilities – Baylor College of Medicine is committed to providing
equitable access to students with documented disabilities (e.g. mental health, attentional, learning,
chronic health, sensory, or physical) or temporary injuries (fractures, sprains, tears). To ensure access to
allied health program activities, please contact Student Disability Services to engage in a confidential
conversation about the process for requesting reasonable accommodations in the classroom and clinical
settings.
Accommodations are not provided retroactively; therefore, students are encouraged to register with Student
Disability Services as soon as they begin the program. More information can be found online by visiting the
Student Disability Services website or by contacting Student Disability Coordinator, at title-ix@bcm.edu.
The full policy, including criteria for requesting reasonable accommodations and procedures for appeal, is
available in the BCM Policy and Procedure Manual 23.1.07:
http://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=23.1.07.
Article 6.3 Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence – Title IX of the Education Amendments of
1972, 20 U.S.C. §1681, prohibits discrimination based on sex in all programs or activities that receive
Federal financial assistance. Title IX also prohibits sexual harassment, including same-gender
harassment and student-to-student harassment. BCM does not discriminate based on sex and will not
tolerate discrimination which includes sexual harassment, sexual violence, dating violence, domestic
violence and stalking. Incidents of sexual harassment, sexual violence, dating violence, domestic violence
and stalking are taken seriously. Reports will be promptly investigated and appropriate actions will be
taken to remedy the effects of the harassment or violence and prevent the reoccurrence.
A student who experiences sexual harassment, sexual violence, dating violence, domestic violence and/or
stalking may contact the BCM Title IX Coordinator for assistance.
Title IX Coordinator
Office of Student Services
Baylor College of Medicine
One Baylor Plaza- Main Campus
Cullen Building, 415A
title-ix@bcm.edu
(713) 798-4346
A student may also report to the BCM Security Office via the campus emergency line at 8811 or the non-
emergency campus extension of 8-8300. The BCM Security Office can assist students with filing a report
with local law enforcement and in the case of any emergency encourages you to call the police at 911. BCM
complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and to the extent possible will
protect the privacy of all persons involved in a report of sexual harassment, sexual violence, dating violence,
domestic violence and/or stalking.
BCM does not tolerate acts of retaliation. Individuals responsible for retaliation against any person who
provides information, participates in an investigation, or the adjudication of a report will be met with
disciplinary action up to an including removal from the BCM community:
http://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&policy_number=02.10.10
BCM provides prevention programs and education to faculty, staff and students in an effort to dispel the
myths, address the effects, and reduce the occurrence of sexual harassment, sexual violence, dating
violence, domestic violence and stalking. More information on our efforts, options for reporting and available
support services can be found by visiting the Office of Student Services webpage at:
https://www.bcm.edu/education/academic-faculty-affairs/student-services/support-services.
The full Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence policy is available in the BCM Policy and Procedure
Manual 02.2.26. The policy can be found on webpage: https://
www.bcm.edu/education/academic-faculty-
affairs/academic-policies.
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Article 6.4 Academic Advising, Career Advising, Tutoring
Academic Advising: The PA, DNP and OP programs assign a faculty advisor to each enrolled student.
The relationship continues throughout their education. The role of the faculty advisor is to provide a
consistent academic and professional resource to the student. Periodic meetings with the faculty advisor
are mandatory; optional additional meeting times are available and encouraged.
Tutoring and Academic Support: Health Professions programs provide faculty-directed timely review
sessions throughout each academic term to prepare students for knowledge and skill-based examinations.
Career Advising: The DNP, GC, OP, and PA programs assign a faculty advisor to each enrolled student.
The relationship continues throughout their education. The role of the faculty advisor is to provide a
consistent professional resource to the students regarding discipline-specific career planning and initial
employment in the field or post-graduate training opportunities. Mandatory and on-request meetings with
the faculty advisor include career advising at key points as students progress toward graduation. In addition,
programs require participation in career development programs to assist with their preparation for the
workforce. Students are given ample opportunity to meet with advisors or other faculty members to discuss
employment opportunities and career advancement.
Article 7 Student Wellness
Article 7.1 Student Health Insurance – Baylor College of Medicine believes student wellness is
essential to academic progress and requires that all individuals enrolled in any Baylor academic program
maintain medical coverage through the program or are enrolled in alternative coverage that meets the
coverage requirements established by the College. The program ensures students have access to health
and dental insurance to cover the costs of routine care and/or unexpected illness or injury.
Information regarding the student health insurance program, including enrollment requirements, eligible
dependents, costs of coverage, benefits, and coverage during leave of absence is available at
https://www.bcm.edu/education/school-of-medicine/m-d-program/student-handbook/student-health-
wellness-career-services/student-insurance
Article 7.2 Personal Responsibility – Learning and practicing medicine has always involved
exposure to infectious agents. Personal risks can be minimized by intelligent attention to immunizations,
standard precautions and other preventable measures. Each student must take personal responsibility for
being aware of his/her status and taking proper precautions.
The College subscribes to the American Association of Medical Colleges’ statement of responsibility in
treating patients with HIV: students, residents, and faculty have a fundamental responsibility to provide care
to all patients assigned to them regardless of diagnosis. Failure to accept responsibility violates a basic
tenant of the medical profession to place the patient’s interest and welfare first.
Article 7.3 Infection Control – Students exposed to or with infectious or communicable illnesses
including chicken pox, diarrheal illness, measles, tuberculosis, group A strep infection or draining lesions on
the hands must see their primary care physician or consult a physician in the Family Medicine department.
In addition, students with such circumstances should consult with the infection control office in the
institution where the infection occurred or where the student is doing a clerkship about the advisability of
working with patients to be sure that he or she is following the local regulations. When caring for patients
with TB, students should adhere to local regulations. Precautions may include wearing appropriate
masks, or custom fitted masks.
Article 7.4 Institutional Policy on AIDS – The risk to health care workers of acquiring Human
Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection in the routine performance of duties is quite low. Students, house
officers, faculty, and staff will be expected to care for patients so infected as they would any patient
suffering from other potentially communicable diseases in accordance with the recommendations of the
Center for Disease Control (CDC) and existing hospital policies.
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Students, house officers, faculty, staff with HIV infection will be handled as any other medical problem in that
restrictions on activities will be based on the advice of that individual's physician and guidelines set forth by
the CDC.
The College does not have routine, mandatory testing of HIV for students. However, the State of Texas
requires health care workers who know they are infected with HIV or hepatitis B to seek a fitness for duty
evaluation from the institution. Students who are known to be infected with HIV, hepatitis B or hepatitis C
must seek an evaluation with the Occupational Health Program to determine whether restrictions on
activities are necessary. Restrictions on activities, if any, will be based on the advice of that individual's
physician, standards of medical practice and guidelines set forth by the CDC.
Article 7.5 Standard Precautions – Baylor College of Medicine students (“Students”) are expected
to provide the appropriate level of care to all patients while following standard precautions to prevent the
spread of infectious diseases due to exposure to human blood or bodily fluid. Information regarding
standard precautions, needle stick injuries, and exposure to blood or bodily fluids is available at
https://www.bcm.edu/education/school-of-medicine/m-d-program/student-handbook/student-health-
wellness-career-services.
Article 7.6 Health Requirements and Services – Before registration, all students must complete
the Student Health Assessment, and show proof of immunizations/serologic confirmation required by the
Texas Education Code and BCM:
Tetanus/Diphtheria Rubella
Measles (rubella) Mumps
Hepatitis B Polio
Meningitis Varicella (Chicken Pox)
Tuberculosis* (PPD/Mantoux)
*If positive, a chest x-ray is required
Health care services are offered by primary care providers chosen by the student at the time of registration.
The Occupational Health Program Office consults with students in regard to safety and health related issues
pertinent to all health care professionals and conducts TB testing annually. All student health records are
maintained in accordance with guidelines specified by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability
Act (HIPAA) of 1996.
Article 7.7 Training – The Office of Environmental Safety requires that all students view
the annually
updated OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) Training Film and be trained to prevent transmission of
tuberculosis.
Students may consult with a dean in the Office of Student Affairs in regard to all available health
care service options in the Texas Medical Center. The Office of Corporate Compliance Programs requires
that all BCM students, visiting students and Observers complete the on-line training in regard to HIPAA.
Article 7.8 BCM Student and House Medical Staff Mental Health Service.
Wellness Intervention Team: The Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) Wellness Intervention Team (WIT)
effectuates a coordinated institutional response to a health or wellness crisis causing student distress, when
the student is referred by the Dean or Designee such as a Dean of Students or Program Director. WIT does
not provide emergency services or immediate, direct intervention with students purported to be in distress,
but primarily coordinates an acute care assessment of the health and safety of students and links them with
necessary resources to promote mental, emotional, psychological, or physical wellness and well-being. The
School Dean or Designee will activate the WIT to initiate one of these primary functions, as appropriate:
Acute Care & Crisis Management, Access to Academic & Non-Academic Support Resources, or Processing
of Long-Term Leave of Absence (LOA) Requests & Returns from LOA. Students referred to WIT may
register dissent or concern regarding the WIT process by filing a Grievance, as described in the Student
Appeals and Grievances Policy (23.1.08). For further details about the WIT purpose and process, contact
your School Dean or
studentserivces@bcm.edu.
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The Student and House Staff Mental Health Service, directed by the Department of Psychiatry &
Behavioral Sciences, provides confidential, free counseling for students, spouses, significant others, or
couples. Students and spouses interested in obtaining counseling may call 713-798-4881. An appointment
will be made to see a BCM faculty psychiatrist, or other professional, usually within two or three days. The
telephone line has a 24-hour answering service. Through the service, consultation, counseling (including
marital counseling), crisis intervention or psychotherapy up to 12 sessions are provided free of charge.
Information given to the counselor will be treated as confidential. It will not be available to the administration,
faculty, or any committee of the College. Limited information may be given with the permission of or at the
request of the student. No claim will be made against medical insurance.
The counselor will not participate in any academic decision concerning students. If a psychiatric evaluation
is requested by the school administration to aid in decisions concerning admission, leave of absence,
disciplinary issues, etc., such matters will be referred to psychiatrists who do not serve as counselors.
In the event of a psychiatric emergency or when a faculty psychiatrist cannot be reached immediately, a
student may go directly to Houston Methodist Hospital or Ben Taub Hospital emergency rooms.
For extended treatment of psychiatric problems requiring hospitalization, a student may be referred to other
specialists in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences or to one in the community. For
psychiatric treatment in these instances, there will be fees which will come under the provisions of the
student's health insurance policy and the student's own resources. One option among these is the BCM
Psychiatry Clinic, where a student or spouse can be seen for ongoing psychotherapy by a Psychiatry
resident at the clinic's minimum fee. In addition, if a student needs ongoing psychotherapy in order to remain
enrolled and cannot afford to pay for it, BCM will pay for the treatment-which will be provided by a voluntary
faculty psychiatrist as often as once a week for up to one year. This will be available only to a few students
at a time and will be determined on the basis of financial need.
Students also have access to WellConnect, a service that provides a 24/7 hotline for crisis counseling
(http://www.wellconnectbysrs.com/).
Article 7.9 Substance and Alcohol Abuse Policy –The federal Drug-Free Workplace Act is the
foundation for the BCM Substance and Alcohol Abuse Policy (Number 02.5.34). Particular areas of
emphasis in this Act are:
•
Publishing a policy statement notifying BCM Persons of prohibitions against the use, possession,
distribution, dispensing, or manufacture of any Prohibited Substance in the workplace and on BCM
premises and against the excessive consumption of alcohol, in the circumstances described in this
policy.
•
Establishing an ongoing drug-free awareness program that periodically informs BCM Persons of the
dangers of drug abuse and explains our drug-free workplace policy, possible penalties for policy
violations, and of the available drug counseling, rehabilitation and assistance programs.
•
Establishing a mechanism for reporting suspected violations of this policy.
Creating a healthy and safe work environment is a top priority of the College. This substance and alcohol
abuse policy has been established to help keep BCM Persons healthy, productive, and free from injury.
Compliance with this policy is a condition to continued employment, enrollment, or association, as
applicable, of all BCM Persons.
The term “BCM premises” includes any and all property owned or leased by BCM, hospitals, clinics, and any
other practice site affiliated with BCM, and any vehicle engaged in BCM operations.
The term “prohibited substance” includes illegal drugs, controlled substances being misused, and
prescription and over- the-counter drugs with abuse potential being taken in amounts not in accordance
with the prescribed or recommended dosage.
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Prohibited Substance. All BCM Persons are strictly prohibited from engaging in the use, possession,
distribution, dispensing, manufacture, or sale of any Prohibited Substance while on BCM premises, while
conducting BCM business, or while representing BCM in any educational, research, clinical, or community
service activity. Any BCM Person who comes to work or class, as applicable, under the influence of any
Prohibited Substance will be subject to discipline, up to and including dismissal and referral to law
enforcement agencies.
In situations in which a supervisor of a BCM Person at work or in class has a reasonable suspicion that
such BCM Person may be using a Prohibited Substance, BCM may require the Person to submit to testing.
A reasonable suspicion of use does not necessarily imply a reasonable suspicion of impairment. A
supervisor is either defined by an approved job description or identified by title as a Chair or Section Chief
or similar title.
Circumstances that may create reasonable suspicion of use include, but are not limited to, physical
symptoms of impairment; observable phenomena, such as direct observation of drug use or possession; a
pattern of abnormal or erratic behavior; arrest or conviction for a drug-related offense, or identification of an
employee as the focus of a criminal investigation into illegal drug possession, use or trafficking; or reports
from reliable and credible sources.
Alcohol. BCM persons found to have consumed alcohol in excess of the applicable legal limit while on BCM
premises, while on BCM business, or while representing BCM in an educational, research, clinical, or
community service activity also may be subject to testing and/or discipline under the terms of this policy.
Any BCM person who comes to work or class, as applicable, under the influence of alcohol, in excess of
the applicable legal limit, will be subject to discipline, up to and including dismissal.
If authorized in advance by the Office of Public Affairs, alcohol may be consumed on BCM premises.
Additional Guidelines. Vendors who appear at BCM under the influence of any Prohibited Substance or under
the influence of alcohol will be removed from the premises and possibly prohibited from doing future
business with the College.
BCM Persons convicted of a criminal drug offense that occurred on BCM premises (or while the Person
was engaged in BCM business) must notify BCM in writing of the conviction within five (5) days thereof and
satisfactorily complete an approved rehabilitation program.
BCM will establish such procedures as it deems necessary to effectively enforce its substance and alcohol
abuse policy. Refusing to cooperate with these procedures may be cause for disciplinary action, up to and
including dismissal.
BCM will make every effort to keep the results of drug and alcohol tests confidential. The BCM Person’s
supervisor will be notified of the test results, and other management personnel may be notified of the test
results. BCM Persons should be aware that test results may be used in administrative hearings and court
cases. Results also may be sent to state and/or federal agencies as required by applicable law.
BCM Persons who perform activities in the College’s affiliated institutions are also subject to the substance
and alcohol abuse policies of each such affiliated institution.
Article 8 Regulations Concerning Student Conduct
Article 8.1 Academic Rules – Honesty and integrity are essential to the academic functions of the
SHP. The following rules, which constitute the School’s Honor Statement, are promulgated in the interest
of protecting the validity of the College's grades and degrees, and to assist students in developing
standards and attitudes appropriate to academic life and the practice of health care. Violation of
academic rules can result in dismissal from the College.
•
No student shall receive assistance not authorized by an instructor in the preparation of any
assignment, laboratory exercise, report, or examination submitted as a requirement for an
academic course or rotation.
•
No student shall knowingly give unauthorized assistance to another student in such preparation.
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•
No person shall sell, give, lend, or otherwise furnish to any unauthorized person material that can
be shown to contain the questions or answers to any examination scheduled to be given at any
subsequent date, in any course of study offered by the SHP, excluding questions and answers from
tests previously administered when supplied by the department.
•
Any persons taking, or attempting to take, steal, or otherwise procure in any unauthorized manner
any material pertaining to the conduct of a class, including examinations, laboratory equipment,
etc., shall be in violation of this regulation.
•
Plagiarism is prohibited. Plagiarism includes “an act or instance of using or closely imitating the
language and thoughts of another author without authorization and the representation of the
author’s words as one’s own, as by not crediting the original author.” (dictionary.com).
Article 8.2 Non-Academic Rules – The rules of conduct listed below are intended for all students;
however, it is hoped that all persons within the College complex, faculty and students alike, will adhere to
these rules. Any student who feels that any person's conduct is not in keeping with appropriate and
acceptable behavior in the areas listed below, either in an academic or non-academic setting should notify
the relevant Program Director, the Dean, or other appropriate college official depending on the nature of
the offense.
Students must continually maintain congruence with all laws and regulations. Conduct that fails to maintain
congruence will be reported to the appropriate State regulatory authority as required.
Article 8.3 Disorderly Assembly – No person shall assemble on campus for the purpose of
causing a riot or destruction or disorderly diversion that interferes with the normal educational process
and operation of the College. This does not deny any student(s) the right of peaceful assembly in
accordance with College policy. Likewise, no person or group of persons shall obstruct the free
movement of other persons about the campus, interfere with the use of College facilities, or prevent the
normal operation of the College.
Article 8.4 Prohibited Conduct – When violation of any federal, state, or local law by a student
indicates that the student’s continued presence on campus creates a substantial likelihood of danger to
the educational process of the College community; the College may institute disciplinary action.
Behavior that disrupts the academic pursuits, or infringes upon the privacy, rights, or privileges of other
persons is prohibited. In this regard:
•
No student shall push, strike, physically assault, haze or threaten any member of the faculty, staff, or
student body or any visitor to the College community.
•
Bullying behavior is prohibited, whether it is emotional, verbal, physical, or cyber.
•
Drunken misbehavior on College property, at functions sponsored by the College or any recognized
College organization is prohibited.
•
Conduct which is lewd, indecent, or obscene, or which is offensive to the prevailing standards of
an academic community is prohibited.
•
No student shall interfere with, or fail to cooperate with, any properly identified College faculty or
staff personnel while these persons are in the performance of their duties.
•
Dress shall be primarily a matter of individual judgment, but within acceptable standards of good taste.
Students are expected to be neat and clean. Students not meeting clinical department standards of dress
may be denied access to patients and may thereby jeopardize their grade and satisfactory completion of
the rotation or elective. Allowances may be made for mandated dress codes by some religions. Students
should ask their Program Director for information on religion-related dress code allowances.
•
The use, possession, or distribution of narcotics, amphetamines, barbiturates, marijuana, hallucinogens,
and any other dangerous or controlled drugs, not prescribed by a properly licensed healthcare provider,
is prohibited.
•
Malicious damage or destruction of property belonging to the College or to its affiliated institutions is
prohibited.
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•
Fire and Explosion Safety
o
No student shall tamper with fire safety equipment.
o
No student shall set or cause to be set any unauthorized fire in or on College property.
o
The possession or use of firearms, fireworks, or explosives on College property is strictly
forbidden.
o
No student shall make, or cause to be made, a false fire alarm.
•
Gambling is prohibited on College property.
•
Consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited on College property.
•
No person shall take, attempt to take, or keep in his or her possession, items of College
property or items belonging to students, faculty, staff or student groups without proper
authorization. No student shall make unauthorized entry into any College building, office or other
facility, nor shall any person remain without authorization in any building after normal closing hours.
•
No person shall make unauthorized use of any College facility. Upon appropriate notice by College
officials, authorization for the use of College facilities may be withdrawn or otherwise restricted.
Additional prohibited conduct includes:
•
Dishonesty.
•
Serious breach of trust or confidence.
•
Serious misconduct, misrepresentation, or failure in personal actions, or in meeting obligations that
raise serious unresolved doubts about the integrity, character and faithfulness of the student in
meeting the overall obligations of a healthcare career are all considered inappropriate behavior.
•
Any violation of the College’s Substance and Alcohol Abuse Policy (see Article 7.9)
Illegal, unethical, or professionally inappropriate behavior outside the BCM community may be considered
and addressed.
Article 8.5 Personal Electronic Devices - The use of personal electronic devices must be
consistent with the needs of the healthcare learning environment. When engaged in patient care,
providers are expected to provide their uninterrupted, full attention to the patient for whom they are
caring. It is not acceptable to engage in any activity that is not directly related to the care of the patient.
Classroom/seminars:
1. Electronic devices are prohibited except for approved curricular purposes. Accessing other forms
of information (e.g., internet search, database search, email communications) are restricted to the
policy of the individual instructor.
2. Video/audio recording is strictly prohibited. Instructors may allow limited video/audio recording in
certain situations. However, the instructor must give explicit permission, which applies only to that
particular class/session/event and does not apply to any other situation.
Patient care areas:
1. When engaged in direct patient care that is intensive in nature (e.g., anesthesia administration):
a. Electronic personal communication (e.g., voice call, text message, email) is strictly prohibited.
b. All electronic personal communication must occur while on breaks.
c. Utilization of electronic/computing devices (e.g., smart phone) to access reference information
(e.g., pharmacologic information, calculations, disease processes) to facilitate care for the
current patient is discouraged. At faculty discretion, it will be permitted provided constant
vigilance to patient status/care is maintained at all times. The provider must immediately
display device screen for verification that appropriate reference information is being accessed.
d. Reading materials unrelated to a patient’s care during anesthesia is prohibited.
2. When engaged in direct patient care occurring in a clinic or hospital ward environment (e.g., clinic,
preoperative screening clinic, etc.):
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a. Electronic personal communication (e.g., voice call, text message, email) is strictly prohibited.
b. All personal electronic communication must occur while on breaks.
c. Utilization of electronic/computing devices (e.g., smart phone) to access reference information
(e.g., pharmacologic information, calculations, disease processes) to facilitate care for the
current patient is permissible.
3. When not engaged in direct patient care:
a. Audible electronic personal communication is prohibited.
b. Text messaging is acceptable provided it does not disrupt the work environment.
To protect privacy and confidentiality of patients, guests, family members, and staff, the use of a personal
smart phone for photographs (e.g., patients, medical records, surgery schedule), digital images, videos,
and other types of voice or digital recording, is strictly prohibited in the clinical facilities. Healthcare
facility-approved photographic equipment may be used in accordance with facility policy. Any violation of
this policy, or the HIPAA requirements regarding protected health information (PHI), is grounds for
immediate termination from Baylor College of Medicine.
Article 8.6 Falsification of College Records – Intentional falsification of any records used by the
College relative to a student’s enrollment, performance, and graduation is prohibited.
•
Students must complete all College records honestly.
•
No student shall alter, counterfeit, forge, falsify or cause to be altered any record, form, or
document used by the College.
Article 8.7 Requirement to Report Arrests or Convictions Immediately – Health Professions
students must report any criminal offense allegations or convictions, including those pending appeal, to
their respective Program Director immediately (i.e., within 24 hours). Offenses required to be reported
include any instance in which the student has been:
•
Cited or charged with any violation of the law
•
Arrested or have any pending criminal charges
•
Convicted of a misdemeanor or felony
•
Sentenced to serve jail or prison time
•
Subject of a court martial
Students are not required to report class C misdemeanor traffic violations.
Article 8.8 R
eview of Student Behavior – It is the responsibility of the SHP to ensure that its
students refrain from engaging in prohibited behavior. Students will be held accountable for their own
actions. If a student is engaged in prohibited behavior, it shall be brought to the attention of the relevant
Program Director or the Dean. The Dean, in conjunction with the Program Director and or other relevant
faculty members, when appropriate, will investigate and review the allegations. If allegations prove to be
frivolous, lacking in credibility, or personal in nature, the matter may be dismissed or handled informally. If
the allegations are deemed to be of a serious nature and appear to be valid, the Program Director or the
Dean may require the student to refrain from clinical activities or restrict contact with certain individuals. A
student may be placed on administrative probation, suspended, or dismissed from the College for
engaging in prohibited behavior such as discussed in Article 8. The outcome of the investigation and
decision(s) by the Dean are final. Decisions of the Dean may be appealed through the Adverse Academic
Action Appeal Procedure.
The full Student Grievances Policy is available in the BCM Policy and Procedure Manual.
http://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=23.1.08
Article 8.9 Acceptable Use Policy – Access to computers, information systems and networks
owned or operated College impose certain responsibilities and obligations on those granted such access.
An individual user's access must always be in furtherance of the user's responsibilities at the College.
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Use by BCM personnel, or third parties granted access by BCM, should always be legal, ethical,
academically honest and in accord with community or professional standards.
No use of BCM computers, information systems and networks should be made that would subject the user
or BCM to any legal action or which would be generally perceived as improper or inappropriate. Use of
BCM computers, information systems and networks must be consistent with the intellectual property rights
of the BCM, other BCM users and third parties. The rights of other Authorized Users to access the BCM
computers, information systems and networks must be respected, and each user should consider such
other users' rights and needs with respect to shared resources. Violations of the AUP may result in a range
of disciplinary actions including informal warning, formal warning, temporary or permanent suspension of
access to the College’s equipment, suspension or dismissal from the user's position with the College or
criminal prosecution.
The above summary statement is not to be construed as a replacement for the detailed policy. The full
Acceptable Use Policy is available in the BCM Policy and Procedure Manual
https://intranet.bcm.edu/policies/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=12.2.01
Article 8.10 Use of Health Professions Student Direct List – Official class direct lists (DLs) (e.g.
gc22-L, pa22-L, bsdnp22-L or msop22-L) are designed strictly to transmit messages related to program
activities. Do not exploit direct lists for purposes beyond their intended scope, such as to distribute
unsolicited electronic communications. Unauthorized usage includes:
• Any solicitation shall not be allowed, as indicated in the BCM Policy and Procedures Manual
Section 11.2.10: "Internal Solicitations". Baylor College of Medicine prohibits unauthorized
solicitations of any sort or distribution of literature by any college employees, students or any other
person or persons on college premises. Solicitation is defined to include the following:
o Sale of goods and services
o Collection of debt
o Solicitation of gifts or charitable contributions
o Solicitation in support of any candidate, political party, or political action committee
o Circulation of petitions
o Solicitation of membership in non-Baylor organizations
o Distribution of display of product samples or catalogues not related to a program of the
college
• Postings originated by non-BCM personnel are expressly prohibited without approval by the
student’s program director.
• Posting of copyrighted materials is expressly prohibited by penalty of law. (e.g., text that is down-
loaded from web sites, or taken from books, journals, or magazines)
• Posting of libelous material or material intended as a mechanism of attack shall not be allowed.
• Posting of chain letters or alerts of any kind shall not be allowed, including warnings of computer
viruses.
• P
osting of items of general interest that are not copyrighted (e.g., jokes, stories) but are not
related to program activities.
These guidelines may be amended as the need arises.
In addition to the official class DLs, a non-official listserv is available for each class through which BCM will
announce special events that are not part of your educational program. Students may use these listservs
(ahc-na, ahc-op, ahc-pa) to communicate items that are not program activities yet may be of interest to
student colleagues: a garage sale, the sale of used textbooks, need for a roommate, or suitable social
functions. This listserv also uses BCM email addresses; therefore, the above provisions and good social
and professional judgment apply. Specific guidelines may be added as needed. Non- official listservs are
monitored by the SHP as well as by the Office of Information Technology.
Article 8.11 Use of Copyrighted Materials – It is the policy of BCM to fully respect all rights that
exist in any material protected by the copyright laws of the United States while also encouraging usage of
the material that furthers its mission. BCM intends that College Members take full advantage of all
relevant licenses, exemptions and exclusions, such as the Fair Use exception, that are provided for under
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the copyright laws, to respect the proprietary rights of owners of copyrights and to refrain from actions
that constitute infringement of copyright. If there is no applicable license, exemption or exclusion to permit
use of the material, permission must be obtained from the copyright holder.
Reference: BCM Policies and Procedures Manual 20.8.03.
https://intranet.bcm.edu/policies/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=20.8.03
.
Article 9 Faculty Review of Student Performance
Article 9.1 Academic Standards – Health Professions students are expected to meet standards
of academic excellence established by the faculty of the SHP. These standards are reviewed on an
annual basis by the didactic and clinical faculty through the activities of the Health Professions Student
Promotions Committee. The documentation of academic standard achievement is accomplished through
scheduled programs of testing and the observation of student performance. The testing and observation
of student performance may also be independent of courses and rotations. Various methods are
employed to provide students with a measure of their progress as they transition through their education
and training. Examples of these processes and instruments include: written examinations, skill-based
tests, faculty observations, oral presentations, student self-assessments of progress, daily and/or monthly
faculty performance evaluations, and quarterly evaluations by the student’s academic advisor.
Article 9.2 Review of Didactic Performance – Each student’s didactic performance is assessed by
the faculty at specified intervals throughout the didactic phase of the curriculum. This is accomplished
using methods of evaluation such as written, demonstrative, and verbal assessments of knowledge and
skills. All course coordinators/directors will submit grades to the Program Director upon course
completion. The responsible Program Director or designee will report all grades to the Office of the
Registrar. The responsible Program Director or designee will prepare grade reports for review by the SHP
Dean and the HPSPC, as requested. Students enrolled in the DNP, OP, and PA programs must achieve
a passing grade in all courses in the didactic phase of the curriculum before beginning clinical rotations.
In the GC program, where clinical rotations (field placements) occur in parallel with the didactic
coursework, students may continue in their clinical rotations unless there is a violation of the code of
conduct or continuation would jeopardize patient safety. The responsible Program Director will take
academic action consistent with Article 5.13.5 and may make recommendations to the HPSPC regarding
academic action(s). Any such recommendations are not final until accepted by the HPSPC, at which point
they become actions of the Committee.
Article 9.3 Review of Clinical Performance – Each student’s clinical performance will be evaluated
by the program faculty as well as the clinical faculty and preceptors with whom they work. This will be
accomplished using performance evaluations, written examinations, patient simulation testing, and skills
tests. These evaluations are submitted to the Program Director. The Health Professions program faculty
will review these evaluations, in conjunction with all other available credible information concerning the
student’s performance, to determine the grade. The responsible Program Director or designee will submit
grades to the Office of the Registrar. The responsible Program Director or designee will prepare grade
reports, as requested, for review by the SHP Dean and the HPSPC. The responsible Program Director
will take academic action consistent with Article 5.13.5 and may make recommendations to the HPSPC
regarding academic action(s). Any such recommendations are not final until accepted by the HPSPC, at
which point they become actions of the committee.
Article 9.4 Review of Professional Behavior – It is also the responsibility of the SHP to ensure that
its graduates meet local and national standards of professional conduct and responsibility. Students will
be held accountable for their own actions. Integrity, respect, personal demeanor and appearance,
accountability, collegial interaction, commitment to excellence, empathy and self-reflection have been
identified as those professional attributes that facilitate honest communications, nurture confidentiality,
facilitate boundary maintenance, encourage lifelong learning, engage in compassionate care provision,
and acknowledge the value of others in the caring process. Students will be assessed, in part on their
reliability, honesty and integrity, responsibility, and professional relationships with patients, families, and
colleagues as well as their responsibility related to substance use and abuse. Any behavior that calls into
question a student’s professionalism or potential capabilities as a future healthcare provider will be
reviewed by the Program Director, who may institute sanctions, with consultation as needed by the Dean,
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or may be referred by the Program Director to the Health Professions Student Promotions Committee if it
has implications for didactic or clinical course grades or the student’s standing in the program.
Article 9.5 Suspension of Clinical Privileges – In the event that the Program Director determines
that a student’s conduct causes concerns regarding patient safety or substandard care, or was
unprofessional in nature, the student will be placed on academic probation and the student’s clinical
education will be immediately suspended. Following the suspension of clinical privileges by the Program
Director, the student is prohibited from any clinical activities. During the period between clinical privileges
being suspended and the final disposition of the matter, the student shall remain in good standing. The
Program Director may require the student to participate or prohibit the student from participating in non-
clinical activities during this time. Matters relating to unprofessional conduct may be handled by the
Dean’s office and Program Director or may be referred to the HPSPC depending on the nature of the
infraction. Refer to Student Code of Conduct.
Article 9.6 Health Professions Student Promotions Committee – The Health Professions
Student Promotions Committee is charged with monitoring student academic performance during the
program. It is composed of faculty members from Basic Science and Clinical departments, usually
including faculty from Basic Science courses, clinical rotations, and the SHP Dean. The academic
progress and professional development of each student is reviewed at regular intervals throughout each
academic year. Grades, examination scores, narrative summaries and professional conduct and
development are assessed to ensure the successful progress of each student. The Health Professions
Student Promotions Committee has the primary responsibility for the following:
1.
setting academic standards and requirements necessary for promotion and graduation;
2.
recommending qualified students for promotion;
3.
setting requirements for remedial work or revised academic course load for students whose
academic work is unsatisfactory;
4.
ensuring that each student demonstrates the academic competency of a genetic counselor,
nurse anesthetist, physician assistant, or orthotist/prosthetist;
5.
rendering a decision and taking action on students whose academic work is consistently
unsatisfactory;
6.
addressing conduct and professional behavior of students when brought for deliberation by a
Program Director
7.
proceeding with suspension, recommending withdrawal, or dismissal of students;
8.
recommending awarding of the Master's or Doctoral Degree, or appropriate certificate after
careful review of academic records;
9.
designating awarding of the Master of Science or Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with
Highest Honor, High Honor and Honor for exceptional academic work throughout the period of
education; and
10.
reviewing the system of evaluation of student performance (i.e., grading system and narrative
summaries).
Article 9.7 Academic Performance – Periodic promotion and ultimately recommendation to the
President of the College to grant the Master of Science or Doctor of Nursing Practice degree require the
satisfactory completion of all required courses, examinations and credits as well as demonstration by the
student that he or she is capable of conduct appropriate within the discipline for which he or she is
receiving education and training.
In the case of a student whose academic performance has been unsatisfactory in one or more courses or
clinical rotations, the Health Professions Student Promotions Committee may require the student to:
1.
take a special make-up examination;
2.
be placed on Academic Probation;
3.
enroll in a remedial course of study;
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4.
repeat specific courses or rotations even if previously passed;
5.
repeat an academic year of study;
6.
be dismissed from the College and not be allowed to pursue further studies at the institution;
and/or
7.
comply with other actions as appropriate.
Students who are required to repeat a didactic or clinical course are responsible for the same academic
work and examinations as required of other students taking the course. It is contrary to policy to offer an
examination or re- examination to a student who has been suspended, withdrawn, dismissed, or is on a
leave of absence.
Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) publishes a course repeat policy to explicate the BCM criteria for
calculating repeats in coursework. The full policy is available in the BCM Policy and Procedure Manual:
http://intranet.bcm.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=23.1.09.
The HPSPC reviews at regular intervals all grades and evaluations regarding academic and clinical
performance. Both academic performance and professional behavior by a student in connection with
student’s academic and clinical activities will be considered by the committee under these procedures.
Unacceptable behaviors include those listed under Article 8 “Regulations Concerning Student Conduct,” as
well as misrepresentation, distortions or serious omissions in data reports, research and clinical care; abuse,
misrepresentation or seriously improper conduct in relation to patients or colleagues in clinical training or
academic settings; repeated failures without adequate excuse to meet assigned obligations in professional,
clinical, and research clinical training; and breaches of other standards of professional conduct and
responsibility.
Article 9.8 Policies and Procedures Concerning Rights, Responsibilities, and Appeals to SHP
Student Promotions Committee Actions – In general, procedures regarding appeals are implemented
with every effort made to ensure fairness, objectivity, and thoroughness. The confidentiality of these
procedures is maintained to every extent possible and consistent with other obligations of the faculty and
the College, including the requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996
(HIPAA).
These are academic, not legal, procedural matters. Any evidence that a review committee deems relevant
and trustworthy may be considered. In any matter under appeal, the review committee has access to and
may consider a student’s academic and disciplinary record as a whole. Although a student may seek legal
advice with respect to these procedures, a student may not be represented by an attorney before a reviewing
body and attorneys do not attend interviews of a student or other witnesses. The student must represent
him/herself. The Dean and/or a Department Chair with whom the Program is affiliated may attend hearing(s)
held by the Appeals Review Subcommittee, which is described below. Information obtained in confidence
by a student counseling service or other health care providers, whether medical or mental health, will not
be sought or disclosed to a person or committee without the student's consent. Any information relative to
a student’s health history that is requested in such instances will be managed in accordance with relevant
State and Federal laws, including HIPAA regulations. The absence of such information may preclude the
person or committee from considering a medical excuse. A reviewing body, in connection with its
deliberations or as part of deciding whether to take remedial or corrective action, may recommend to the
School Dean or Designee that the student be evaluated by the Wellness Intervention Team in accordance
with BCM Policy 23.1.12. Procedures and timelines outlined below may be modified by prior notice to the
student when necessary to achieve a full and fair resolution of the matter. Remedial and corrective actions
and sanctions that may be imposed under the appeals procedure include, but are not limited to academic
remediation, personal counseling, reprimand, warning, probation, suspension, and dismissal.
Article 9.9 Actions, Sanctions, and Appeals Regarding Student Performance
1.
Grades are rendered by course directors and reflect the students’ performance. They become
official when accepted by the Program Director. Students’ concerns about grades or evaluations of
academic or clinical performance should be directed to the course director. If such concerns are
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not satisfactorily resolved, the student should bring the matter to the attention of the Program Director
who may consult with the course director to discuss the grade, evaluation or report to assist the
student in understanding and resolving the matter.
2.
The Program Director takes academic action on any student who demonstrates a deficiency of
academic or clinical performance, or where concerns arise about inappropriate, irresponsible, or
unprofessional conduct. The student is notified in writing of the decision, including rationale for the
decision, and action regarding recommendations or sanctions. Sanctions imposed by Program
Directors may include, but are not limited to, reprimand, probation, or suspension. Formal actions
taken by a Program Director are reported to the SHP Dean.
3.
The Health Professions Student Promotions Committee, upon their review of the student’s
performance, may impose other sanctions in addition to those taken by the Program Director
including, but not limited to, requirements to remediate or repeat courses, or be dismissed.
4.
The Program Director shall be available to counsel students whose academic work has been
deemed unsatisfactory. The Dean shall be available to interpret the actions of the Health
Professions Student Promotions Committee to the student, to inform students of written narrative
comments by the faculty concerning unsatisfactory academic work, to review with a student the
steps in the Appeal process and to counsel students.
5.
Decisions of the Program Director or HPSPC may be appealed through the Adverse
Academic Action Appeal Procedure.
The full Student Grievances Policy is available in the BCM Policy and Procedure Manual.
https://intranet.bcm.edu/policies/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=23.1.08
Article 10 Academic Standards for Financial Aid Eligibility
All students enrolled in the School of Health Professions are considered to be making satisfactory progress
unless otherwise determined by the School of Health Professions Student Promotions Committee.
This policy has been developed to ensure that the BCM Student Financial Aid Program meets or exceeds
the requirements set forth by federal regulations governing Academic Standards of Progress for Financial
Aid Eligibility for students who receive Title IV funding. The full Financial Responsibilities, Financial Aid
Eligibility, and Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirements for Students is available in the BCM Policy
and Procedure Manual 23.1.02
https://intranet.bcm.edu/policies/index.cfm?fuseaction=Policies.Display_Policy&Policy_Number=23.1.02.
This policy applies to those students receiving Title IV financial aid. The policy may also serve as a guide
to regulate non- Title IV or private funding.
Article 10.1 Time Limits on Financial Aid Eligibility – A student will be permitted a time limit of 150%
the length of the standard required length of study as a full-time student to complete the program for which
he or she is enrolled.
Standard
Maximum
Master of Science/Genetic Counseling
21 Months
32 Months
Master of Science/Orthotics & Prosthetics
30 Months
45 Months
Master of Science/Physician Assistant
30 Months
45 Months
Doctor of Nursing Practice/Nurse Anesthesia
36 Months
54 Months
Transfer Physician Assistant students completing only the Clinical Phase of training at Baylor College of
Medicine will be permitted a time limit of 150% the length of the standard required length of study to
complete the clinical phase. The Nurse Anesthesia and Orthotics/Prosthetics programs do not accept
transfer students into the clinical phase of their programs.
Standard
Maximum
Clinical Phase – Physician Assistant
17 Months
25 Months
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There is no lightened-load program in the School of Health Professions.
Students electing a leave of absence for academic or personal reasons will be measured for financial aid
eligibility based on the timeline during their full-time academic enrollment only.
A student failing to complete the program by the maximum time permitted will be suspended from financial
aid eligibility.
Article 10.2 Grade Requirements upon Completion of Courses - School of Health Professions
students will be evaluated for Academic Progress as follows during their academic career:
Physician Assistant Students and Orthotic and Prosthetic Students
•
December, upon completion of Fall 1
•
July, upon completion of Spring 1
•
December, upon completion of Fall 2
•
June, upon completion of Spring 2
•
November, upon completion of clinical training in Fall 3 for students with incomplete requirements
Nurse Anesthesia Students
•
July, upon completion of Spring 1
•
December, upon completion of Fall 1
•
July, upon completion of Spring 2
•
December, upon completion of 5 clinical rotations
•
July, upon completion of 12 clinical rotations
•
December, 3rd–year students with incomplete requirements
Genetic Counseling Students
•
December, upon completion of Fall 1
•
June, upon completion of Spring 1
•
December, upon completion Fall 2
•
June, upon completion of Spring 2
Grade Requirements
A student’s academic progress for financial aid purposes will be reviewed in accordance with the guidelines
used by the Health Professions Sciences Student Promotions Committee. Students can apply for federal
aid at any time during their enrollment period prior to the deadlines posted. Students repeating a semester
or an academic year are eligible to apply for aid. Students repeating for a third time in a semester or
academic year are not eligible for federal aid, although they may apply for an outside alternative loan.
Any BCM student who fails to meet grade and/or course requirements will be placed on financial aid
probation for a full year by the Director of the Office of Financial Aid. Students on probation for financial aid
eligibility must, by the end of the probationary enrollment year, attain satisfactory academic status. Failure
to do so will result in suspension of financial aid eligibility by the Director of the Office of Financial Aid.
The School of Health Professions assigns letter grades and a student may be placed on academic probation
or warning due to a GPA below 3.0. Students are considered to be making Satisfactory Academic Progress
until and unless they are dismissed from their program. Students are required to successfully complete all
required coursework.
Article 10.3 Appeals of Financial Aid Probation or Suspension – Students who do not meet the
minimum standards for satisfactory academic progress may appeal to the Office of Student Financial Aid
for reinstatement of their financial aid eligibility. Circumstances which may be considered as a basis for
an appeal may include family emergency, death in the student’s immediate family, a student’s medical
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illness or injury, or other undue hardships. Appeals should be submitted in writing and must include
relevant documentation. Office of the Student Financial Aid must receive the written appeal no later than
60-days after the start of the academic period for which the financial aid is requested. Appeal decisions will
follow the procedures outlined in BCM’s Student Grievance Policy (Other Academic or Student Services
Issues Section). Refer to BCM’s Student Grievances website for the policy and additional details:
(https://www.bcm.edu/education/academic-faculty-affairs/student-services/student-appeals-grievances
)
Article 10.4 Compliance – The Office of Student Financial Aid in coordination with the Office of
Compliance will monitor BCM’s Student Financial Aid Program’s compliance with the requirements set
forth by federal regulations governing academic standards of progress for financial aid eligibility pertaining
to students who receive Title IV funding.
Article 10.5 Institutional Refund Policy
Students who withdraw from school, go on a leave of absence for longer than 60 days, are dismissed or
otherwise stop attending classes will have Tuition and the Facility Fee refunded as indicated below.
Refunds are calculated based on the length of the enrollment period for which the students are charged.
Students are charged in half-year increments.
•
Withdraws prior to the first day of classes or never attends classes: 100 percent**
•
Withdraws or stops attending during the first three weeks of classes: 90 percent**
•
Withdraws or stops attending during the fourth week of classes: 80 percent**
•
Withdraws or stops attending during the fifth week of classes: 70 percent**
•
Withdraws or stops attending during the sixth week of classes: 60 percent**
•
Withdraws or stops attending during the seventh week of classes: 50 percent**
•
Withdraws or stops attending during the eighth through thirteenth weeks of classes: 25 percent**
•
Withdraws or stops attending after the thirteenth week of classes: No Refund*
•
Ph.D. students are charged tuition for the number of months attended.
**Rounded to the nearest dollar
Federal financial aid students who receive federal financial aid and do not complete at least 60 percent of
the enrollment period for which they are charged are subject to return of Title IV funds calculation. This
calculation allows for the refund of charges equal to the percentage of time remaining in the enrollment
period.
B
aylor College of Medicine determines the official date of a student's withdrawal and the official date a
leave of absence begins (based on last class day of attendance). The Office of Student Financial Aid makes
the refund and repayment calculations. Examples of refund calculations are maintained in the Office of
Student Financial Aid and are available upon request.
Students who are placed on an official leave of absence may, and are encouraged to, continue their health
insurance plan. These charges would be excluded from any refund calculation. Those who do not wish to
continue their health insurance while on a leave of absence will have those charges pro-rated once the
appropriate forms are filed with the Benefits Division.
If Title IV federal funds were used to pay institutional charges, any refund calculated must first be returned
to the Title IV programs. The amount of the refund must be allocated to the Title IV programs in the following
order:
•
Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan Program
•
Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan Program
•
Federal Perkins Loan Program
•
Any other Title IV program
•
Other federal, state, private or institutional sources
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Note: Only those programs administered by the College are listed above. All students are required to attend
an exit interview prior to the date they stop attending the College. Group sessions are scheduled for
graduating students. Students are responsible for calling to schedule their exit interviews and should ensure
they schedule their appointments well in advance of their last day of attendance. Any refund due a student
will be made either on the student's last day of attendance or mailed to the address provided.
Students who believe that individual circumstances warrant exception from published policy may send a
letter of appeal to the director of Operational Accounting. Appeals will be reviewed and a decision made
by the director of Operational Accounting.
Note: Any reference to the return of the Title IV federal aid is subject to change in order to comply with
federal regulations.
