Ohio Adm.Code 3341 | Ohio Administrative Code 3341 — Bowling Green State University

Chapter 3341-1 Contracts

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-01 Bylaws of the board of trustees.

Preamble

The board of trustees shall conduct all university affairs in accordance with its responsibilities and powers under the constitution and laws of the state of Ohio. These following bylaws are intended to provide the general framework for the functioning of the board of trustees as the governing body legally responsible for the organization, administration, and operation of Bowling Green state university. Detailed rules and regulations for the organization, administration and operation of the university may be promulgated, amended, and repealed by the board of trustees on its own initiative or upon the recommendation of the university administration, the faculty, or the faculty senate, or any member of the university community or university constituency group who has the best interests of the university in mind, but in all cases the board of trustees does retain the final authority and responsibility.

(A) Members of the board of trustees

(1) Section 1. Number of members; appointments.

(a) The board of trustees of Bowling Green state university shall, as provided by division (A) of section 3341.02 of the Revised Code, consist of nine voting members and two students who shall be non-voting members, all of whom shall be appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate. The term of office of the nine voting members shall be nine years as set forth in division (A) of section 3341.02 of the Revised Code. The term of office of the non-voting student members shall be two years, with the seats being vacated on alternating years.

(b) As specified in division (F) of section 3341.02 of the Revised Code, a member shall continue in office subsequent to the expiration date of that member's term until a successor is appointed or until a period of sixty days has elapsed, whichever occurs first.

(c) The student members of the board shall be appointed by the governor, with the advice and consent of the senate, from a group of five candidates selected pursuant to a procedure adopted by the university's student governments and approved by the Bowling Green state university board of trustees.

(d) The non-voting student members shall not be entitled to attend executive sessions of the board.

(2) Section 2. National trustees

(a) To take advantage of the talents, resources, and experiences of Bowling Green state university graduates and friends who do not live in the state of Ohio, the Bowling Green state university board of trustees establishes the position of national trustee.

(b) National trustees will be non-compensated advisors to the board of trustees, and will have no voting privileges at board of trustees meetings. National trustees are not eligible to become officers of the board, but will otherwise participate in all board activities, including committee membership. National trustees will have voting privileges on committees and may serve as committee chairs.

(c) National trustees will be selected and removed by the Bowling Green state university board of trustees, and the board chair will prepare a formal letter of appointment with notification to the governor of Ohio.

(d) Travel expenses for national trustees will be reimbursed consistent with the policy for voting members of the board of trustees.

(e) A maximum of four national trustee positions are authorized, each serving a three-year term. National trustees are eligible for appointment to two consecutive terms (six years). To provide for consistency in national trustee appointment cycles and alignment with the terms of governor-appointed trustees, the board may extend the terms of any national trustee to the final regular spring meeting (April or May) of the academic year in which their term would have expired.

(f) National trustees will be chosen on the basis of the following attributes: Bowling Green state university graduate or friend; successful in chosen field or business; state or national prominence; ability to be an advocate for higher education; and willingness and ability to offer counsel.

(B) Meeting of the board of trustees

(1) Section 1. Regular meetings. There shall be four to ten regular meetings held annually during the months of September through June. By a majority vote, the board members may change the date of or eliminate meetings.

(2) Section 2. Regular meetings - procedure for cancellation.

(a) Following review of items to be considered by the board of trustees, the president's cabinet (president, vice presidents, board secretary and others designated by the president) will consider possible cancellation or postponement of a regular meeting and notify the board chair if the recommendation is to cancel or postpone the meeting of the board.

(b) The chair of the board will make the decision concerning whether the meeting is to be held as scheduled, subject to appropriate review with all other voting board members.

(c) Notice and poll on proposed cancellation of a regular meeting is to be conducted by telephone call (or electronic communication) to each voting board member by the board secretary, as requested by the board chair.

(d) If a majority of the other voting members agree with the recommendation of the board chair, written notice of cancellation of a regular meeting is to be given by the board secretary to each board member, constituent representatives, appropriate administrative staff, and the media.

(3) Section 3. Special meetings. Special meetings shall be held upon the call of the chair, or shall be called by the chair upon written request of three voting members of the board.

(4) Section 4. Emergency meetings: In the event of an emergency requiring immediate official action, the chair may call an emergency meeting.

(5) Notice. time and place of meetings. Public notice of all meetings shall be given in accordance with the requirements of section 121.22 of the Revised Code. Any person may obtain information regarding the time, date, and location of all meetings by contracting the board secretary or by visiting https://www.bgsu.edu/president/trustees/meeting-resources.html.

(a) Notice of regular meetings. Written notice of regular meetings shall be mailed to each board member by the board secretary or the office of the president of the university at least one week prior to the date of the meeting.

(b) Notice of special meetings. Notice of special meetings must be given to each board member, and to all media outlets or other individuals who have requested notice, by the board secretary not less than twenty-four hours in advance, stating the time, place and purpose of the meeting.

(c) Notice of emergency meetings. Notice of an emergency meeting must be given to all news media outlets that have requested such notification.

(d) Time and place. Unless otherwise stated in the notice of the meeting, all meetings of the board shall be held at the university at such time as is designated in the notice.

(6) Section 6. Organization of meetings. The chair of the board shall preside at each meeting. In the chair's absence, the vice chair shall preside, or in the absence of both, a chair chosen by the majority of the voting members of the board shall preside. The board secretary (or any person appointed by the chair) shall perform the duties of the secretary of the meeting and shall keep the minutes thereof.

(7) Section 7. Quorum, manner of action, and electronic attendance.

(a) A majority of the voting board members shall be present in person or via electronic communication at any meeting in order to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, and a majority of the votes cast shall be sufficient for any action of the board. Responsibilities and prerequisites for attendance via electronic communication are described in paragraph (B)(7)(c) of this rule.

(b) A roll call vote shall be necessary only when acting on motions involving the expenditure of university funds or for all acts on motions during a meeting conducted by electronic communication.

(i) Electronic communication is defined as live, audio-enabled communication that permits the trustees attending a meeting, the trustees present in person at the place where the meeting is conducted, and all members of the public present in person at the place where the meeting is conducted to simultaneously communicate with each other during the meeting.

(ii) Each board member must be present in person for at least one-half of the annual regular meetings of the board.

(iii) If a board member intends to attend a board meeting through electronic communication, the board member must notify the chairperson of the board within forty-eight hours of intent to attend. If the chairperson intends to attend electronically, they shall notify the vice-chairperson.

(iv) During a meeting conducted by electronic communication, at least one-third of the voting board members attending the meeting must be present in-person. If the chairperson determines within forty-eight hours of a scheduled meeting that this criterion will not be met, they shall either work with board members previously intending to attend by electronic means to attend in-person to meet with one-third requirement or reschedule the meeting.

(8) Section 8. Conduct of meetings. All meetings shall be conducted in accordance with the parliamentary procedure outlined in Robert's Rules of Order, revised.

(9) Section 9. Business to be considered.

(a) Introduced by a board member. Any proposed action to be introduced by a board member which shall substantially affect the university's policies shall be submitted to the other board members prior to the meeting at which the matter is to be considered.

(b) Recommendation by the president of the university. Faculty tenure and promotion recommendations and all major questions of university policy (including the annual budget) to be recommended by the president of the university shall be submitted either completely or in summary form to each member of the board prior to the meeting at which the matter is to be considered.

(c) Other matters. Any matter coming to the board other than from a board member or the president of the university shall be submitted to the secretary to the board at least three weeks prior to the meeting at which it is proposed for consideration.

(10) Section 10. Travel expenses. Division (E) of section 3341.02 of the Revised Code provides that the members of the Bowling Green state university board of trustees shall receive no compensation for their services but shall be paid their reasonable and necessary expenses while engaged in the discharge of their official duties. Reasonable and necessary expenses for purposes of division (E) of section 3341.02 of the Revised Code means reasonable and necessary transportation costs from the Ohio residence of an individual trustee to and from Bowling Green state university, the Firelands campus of Bowling Green state university or any other location where the board of trustees may conduct an official meeting of the board. Reimbursement of all other travel expenses shall be approved by a majority of the board of trustees.

(1) Section 1. Number. The officers of the board shall be a president, a vice president, and a secretary. The said president and vice president are referred to in the bylaws as "chair" and "vice chair," respectively, and may be referred to by such latter titles.

(2) Section 2. Qualifications, election, and term of office.

(a) Qualifications. The chair and vice chair shall be members of the board. The qualifications of the board secretary shall be determined by the board.

(b) Election. The officers of the board shall be elected annually at a meeting of the board in late spring. They shall take office immediately following the adjournment of the meeting at which they were elected and shall hold their office until their successors are elected and take office.

(3) Section 3. Duties of officers

(a) Chair. When present, the chair shall preside at all meetings of the board and, unless otherwise ordered by the board, shall appoint members and designate the chairs of any committees. The chair shall perform such other duties as usually pertain to the office, and any duties as from time to time may be assigned by the board. Unless specifically provided to the contrary by the board, the duties of the chair may be assigned to another member of the board.

(b) Vice chair. At the request of, or in the absence or disability of the chair, the vice chair shall perform all the duties of the chair, and while so acting shall have the powers and authority of and be subject to all the restrictions of the chair. The vice chair shall assist the chair at the latter's request.

(c) Board secretary. The board secretary shall be responsible for issuing notice of the meetings of the board, if not handled by the president of the university, recording the minutes of all meetings of the board and distributing them to the members of the board in advance of the next regularly scheduled board meeting, and for performing such other duties as from time to time may be assigned by the board and/or the chair except as otherwise herein provided by the bylaws.

(4) Section 4. Vacancy in office. In the event of a vacancy in the office of the chair, the vice chair shall become chair. In the event of a vacancy in any other office, the chair shall fill it by appointment.

(D) Committees

(1) Section 1. The finance and administration committee. The finance and administration committee shall consist of at least three non-student members and one student member. The financial affairs/facilities committee shall review all financial matters which are to be considered by the board of trustees, except those specifically assigned to the audit and risk management committee. In addition, this committee shall review all proposed capital improvement projects, including major renovation and maintenance projects, which are to be considered by the board of trustees.

The finance and administration committee shall have an investment subcommittee, which shall consist of four non-student members of the finance and administration committee, at least one of whom must be a national trustee. The investment subcommittee shall also work as a joint committee with members of the Bowling Green state university foundation board. The subcommittee is charged with reviewing and making recommendations to both the university and foundation boards and standing committees on matters pertaining to advancing their respective investment strategies and plans. Broad areas of responsibility for the subcommittee include (a) investment policy and guidelines including asset allocation; (b) fund manager selection and evaluation; (c) investment advisor selection and evaluation; and (d) other related matters.

In their first three or four years, new board members shall generally be assigned to serve on both the finance and administration and the academic and student success committees so as to learn the work of both. Thereafter, the board chair shall try to accommodate both the strengths of each board member and the needs of the university in making the appointments. However, every effort shall be made to maintain continuity of membership, especially on the finance and administration committee.

(2) Section 2. The academic and student success committee. The academic and student success committee shall consist of at least three non-student members and one student member. The academic and student success committee shall review all policy and programming matters requiring attention or action of the full board which are integral to fulfilling the academic mission of the university and to assuring a high quality of life for students. The committee shall consider all matters relating to educational policy and the educational mission and objectives of the university, including the development of new academic programs and degrees, enrollment management, student and campus life, student health and welfare, inclusion and belonging, accreditation, instruction, research, and service. In addition, this committee shall review all personnel policies and procedures that require the vote of the full board, including tenure and promotion recommendations.

(3) Section 3. The audit and risk management committee. The audit and risk management committee shall consist of at least three non-student members. The committee will assist the board of trustees in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities in audit and risk management, including financial reporting, internal control, compliance and code of conduct processes. Specific committee responsibilities are defined in the audit and risk management committee charter, approved by the board of trustees.

(4) Section 4. The compensation committee. The compensation committee shall consist of four non-student members. The committee shall provide oversight and counsel to the president regarding compensation matters related to the senior leadership of the university. Matters to be brought to the committee include, but are not limited to, roles and responsibilities of senior leadership positions and position specifications; compensation strategy and comparison data; and any other compensation matter assigned by the board or the chair of the board.

(5) Section 5. The governance committee. The governance committee shall consist of at least four non-student members. The committee shall consider and make recommendations to the board regarding matters pertaining to the organization of the board and involvement and role of trustees. Matters to be brought before the committee include, but are not limited to, the board's structure and operation; general governance policies and procedures; trustee orientation; workshops, retreats, and trustee development; the statement of expectations regarding trustee comportment within the board and with the president and internal and external constituencies; board officer elections; board self-assessment; and any other matter assigned to the committee by the board or the chair of the board.

(6) Section 7. The joint development committee. The joint development committee shall consist of no more than four voting members of the board of trustees and no more than five members selected by and from the Bowling Green state university foundation. The committee shall consider and make recommendations to the board on matters of policy and strategy pertaining to the university-wide integration of fund raising, alumni relations, communications, marketing and related efforts to foster positive relationships with students, alumni, and other key audiences; provide multiple opportunities for engagement; and generate involvement with and support for the mission of the university. The committee shall advise relevant university officers and monitor progress, performance, and the integration of fundraising efforts, alumni relations, communications and marketing strategies. Matters to be brought before the committee may include, but shall not be limited to fundraising and development policies; capital or comprehensive campaigns; acceptance of gifts; and other related matters assigned to the committee by the board of trustees or the chair of the board of trustees.

(7) Other committees. All other committees shall be ad hoc with the term of office of each member terminating when the committee assignment is completed.

(8) The chair or the vice chair of the board shall serve as an ex officio member of each committee of the board.

(E) Administration of the university

(1) Section 1. President of the university. The executive officer of the university shall be the president, who shall appoint the vice presidents, with the consent of the board, and such additional officers as the president, may from time to time select. Each officer shall have such duties and responsibilities as are assigned by the president and each serves at the pleasure of the president. However, in the appointment of a new vice president for academic affairs or the evaluation of an incumbent vice president for academic affairs, the president shares responsibility with elected faculty representatives.

(a) The president. The president as the chief executive officer of the Bowling Green state university shall be responsible for the entire administration of the university, subject to the control of the board of trustees. The president shall lead in fostering and promoting education, research, and public service as the primary aims of the university. It shall be the president's duty to enforce the bylaws, rules and regulations and directions of the board and, as a member of the faculty, interpret to the board proposals and actions of the faculty. It is the policy of the board that all information coming to trustees which is pertinent to the management of the university shall be transmitted to the president in a timely fashion. Any authority or responsibility of the president may be delegated to another executive officer or to any other member of the faculty or staff of the university. Delegation of major areas of authority or responsibility shall be reported to the board.

(b) Selection and/or evaluation of president. The selection and periodic evaluation of the president is the responsibility of the board of trustees. The board may utilize representatives of the faculty, administration, student body, and others as appropriate in conducting the selection and/or evaluation.

(2) Section 2. Fiscal officer. The vice president for finance and administration shall be deemed the fiscal officer for all purposes except as may be otherwise specifically provided by the board.

(F) Bylaws

(1) Section 1. Amendment and repeal. These bylaws may be amended or repealed by a majority vote of the board at any regular meeting of the board, the notice of which having specified that amendment or repeal of the bylaws is to be considered.

(2) Board of trustees bylaws adopted by action of the trustees on July 7, 1971; subsequent amendments adopted by the Trustees on October 24, 1971; August 31, 1972; October 24, 1972; April 5, 1973; January 9, 1975; November 10, 1977; April 19, 1979; August 9, 1979; June 26, 1981; March 11, 1983; May 9, 1986; June 26, 1987; November 20, 1987; December 20, 1991; April 2, 1993; April 26, 1996; September 9, 1997; February 23, 1998; June 28, 1999; February 26, 2010; June 21, 2012; May 3, 2013, February 21, 2014, September 28, 2016, December 11, 2020; March 5, 2021; May 24, 2021; December 10, 2021; March 4, 2022, September 23,2022; June 20, 2024

Equity impact statement: the policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated September 27, 2024 at 7:51 AM

History

Effective: September 27, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-02 Ethical conduct and professional workplace behavior.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Bowling Green state university endeavors to pursue its mission and conduct its academic and business affairs with the highest degree of integrity and honesty and in a manner that is, and appears to be, in full accord with principles of academic excellence, canons of ethical and professional conduct, and all controlling law.

This policy summarizes requirements of the Ohio ethics laws; establishes principles to govern conflicts of commitment; and sets forth BGSU's expectations regarding ethical conduct with respect to professional workplace behavior and use of the university's property and name. It sets forth minimum requirements and non-compliance may lead to legal, disciplinary, or administrative consequences.

The university has also articulated, in its "Statement of Principles of Ethical Engagement," expectations for all university representatives to uphold.

(B) Policy scope

This policy applies to all those who are employed by or represent the university, including but not limited to its trustees, employees, and volunteers. It supplements other university policies that govern conduct. It is not intended to broaden the scope of Ohio ethics laws, which apply according to their terms. Those to whom the ethics laws do not directly apply are expected to be familiar with their requirements.

(1) Ohio ethics laws and related statutes

Bowling Green state university engages with both the public and private sectors as an important component of its research, education, and public service activities. Chapter 102. and sections 2921.42 and 2921.43 of the Revised Code, which are part of the criminal code, set forth Ohio's ethics laws.

Chapter 102. of the Revised Code applies to BGSU's employees and trustees and to those faculty members whose positions involve the performance of, or authority to perform, administrative or supervisory functions. It does not apply to faculty members whose functions are instructional only. It prohibits a public official from using their authority to secure anything of value for themselves or an immediate family member or business associate and (even without the use of authority) from accepting or soliciting anything of value if it could have a substantial and improper interest on the official. Some examples of situations in which these restrictions apply include outside employment, travel and meals and lodging, and gifts. Violation of one of these ethics laws is a misdemeanor.

Chapter 102. of the Revised Code also regulates the disclosure or use, without appropriate authorization, of any information that (a) is confidential because of statutory provisions (e.g., FERPA), or that (b) has been clearly designated as confidential because of the status of a proceeding or the circumstances under which the information was received, when preserving its confidentiality is necessary to the proper conduct of government business. Accordingly, records that are designated by other university policies, management, professional licensure, or understood by practice to be considered confidential must be maintained in the strictest confidence and are not to be disclosed to anyone, except as directed by the appropriate university manager or as otherwise required by professional licensure or law.

Sections 2921.42 and 2921.43 of the Revised Code apply to all officers, employees, and agents of BGSU (including all faculty). Section 2921.42 of the Revised Code prohibits having an unlawful interest in a public contract. This includes any sale of goods or services to the university by officers, employees, and agents of the university, which is also regulated by the university's purchasing policy. Section 2921.43 of the Revised Code prohibits soliciting or accepting improper compensation. Depending on the specific conduct, violation of these statutes is a misdemeanor or a felony.

(2) Nepotism

Section 2921.42 of the Revised Code, which applies to all officers, employees, and agents of BGSU (including all faculty), prohibits a public official from authorizing the employment of a family member; using the authority or influence of their position to secure a job for a family member; or being involved in any decision that affects a family member's employment.

The law does not prohibit relatives from working for the university, but it does strictly limit how that can occur. Whenever the hiring of a family member is contemplated, including as a student worker, the current employee should contact the office of general counsel to assess potential Ohio ethics law implications.

(3) Conflict of commitment

Faculty and staff owe their primary professional allegiance to BGSU; their primary professional commitment is to the education, research, and other programs supporting the university's mission. A conflict of commitment occurs when the time devoted to outside professional activities (such as consulting, government service, public service, or pro bono work) adversely affects an employee's capacity to meet university responsibilities. A conflict of commitment also occurs when an outside professional undertaking (such as submitting a grant proposal in an individual capacity) competes with the individual's primary institutional responsibilities.

As set forth in the collective bargaining agreement between the university and the faculty association, a conflict of commitment exists for bargaining unit faculty members when external or other activities are so substantial or demanding as to interfere with the individual's teaching, research, scholarship, creative work, or service responsibilities to the university or its students. Faculty members must avoid any conflict of commitment between professional activities outside the university and their university responsibilities and must avoid accepting outside assignments that compete directly with academic functions of the university.

BGSU's administrative staff employees also made a commitment to the university with their acceptance of an appointment. All full-time administrative staff employees are expected to make their university employment their principal professional commitment.

Any faculty or administrative staff member intending to engage in an external activity that may present a conflict of commitment must disclose it to and obtain prior written approval from their supervisor. A leave of absence to proceed with the external activity may be required if the conflict cannot be managed to the university's satisfaction.

Adjunct faculty and all administrative and classified staff (whether full-time or part-time) are expected to devote their entire attention to the university during their working hours.

All employees are expected to arrange outside duties, financial interests, and activities so as not to conflict or interfere with their primary obligation to the university.

(4) Conflict of interest

In addition to requiring compliance with Ohio ethics laws, the university also prohibits considerations of personal gain from influencing the decisions or actions of individuals in discharging their university responsibilities. The following situations are examples of prohibited conflicts of interest that may also constitute violations of Ohio ethics laws:

(a) Unauthorized use of university time or resources for professional, charitable, or community activities;

(b) Exploitation of student effort for personal gain;

(c) Allowing an outside party to have access to university facilities, programs, services, information, or technology without proper authorization.

(5) Disclosure requirements

Upon hire, before a potential conflict of commitment, and annually, faculty and staff members must inform their supervisor of any financial interests related to their institutional responsibilities or outside professional activities.

(6) Misappropriation of university property

The university's facilities and property are to be used in its academic and business affairs only. Use of these assets for personal purposes is not allowed.

Other policies govern commercialization efforts by faculty. External business opportunities involving any use of BGSU facilities or property (including BGSU's name) will be treated as opportunities belonging to the university, which may agree to pay additional compensation to participating employees.

Section 2921.41 of the Revised Code, which applies to faculty, officers, employees, and agents of BGSU, forbids any public official to commit theft in office. This offense includes, but is not limited to, exerting control over anything owned by the university with a purpose to deprive the university of it. It also includes unauthorized use of computer or telecommunications property.

Apart from potential criminal penalties, if public property has been converted or misappropriated, the auditor of state may issue a finding for recovery mandating repayment.

(7) Other improper uses of the university's name or resources

BGSU's good name and reputation are among its most important assets. They belong to the university as a whole, not its individual members. Therefore, only the board of trustees, the president, and those specifically authorized by either of them are empowered to speak on behalf of the university.

BGSU's faculty and staff do have the right to express themselves as individuals on political matters and other topics. Anyone speaking or writing in their individual capacity, however, must clearly indicate that their remarks are not made in any official university capacity and do not represent an official position of the university.

Individuals employed by or representing the university shall not do any of the following:

(a) Use university assets or resources for a political activity. This prohibition includes use of the university name, seal, logos, street or email addresses, or phone numbers to endorse, promote, or oppose a candidate or issue. It also includes the use of such university resources such as funds, email, phones, computers, copiers, postage, personnel, and other facilities or services. University facilities and property must be used for university business only in accordance with university policies.

(b) Make any statement or take any action that suggests the university is endorsing or opposing any candidate for public office or any particular viewpoint.

(c) Use their official university title to endorse, promote, or oppose a candidate or issue or to allow their official university title to be used in such a way.

(d) Engage in lobbying activity in the name of or on behalf of the university unless that activity is part of the employee's formal job description or assignment.

(8) Recordingkeeping

BGSU expects all accounting, academic, and business records to be kept in an accurate, timely, and complete manner. Financial records, in particular, must be maintained in conformity with all controlling generally accepted accounting principles and such other requirements as may, from time to time, be imposed by the state of Ohio or other governing authority. Records of material transactions must be capable of being audited so that our actions are transparent and readily justifiable when measured by relevant standards and requirements.

(9) Non-retaliation

It is a violation of this policy to retaliate against anyone who, in good faith, has alleged or reported a violation of this policy or participated in an investigation of an alleged violation.

(10) Reporting

Those who are employed by or represent the university have an affirmative obligation to report any conduct that they reasonably believe may violate any aspect of paragraphs (C)(1) to (C)(9) of this policy by filing a report through https://www.bgsu.edu/report-incident.html. Likewise, those who are employed by or represent the university have an affirmative obligation to cooperate fully in any investigation.

(11) Role of the general counsel

The general counsel is the chief ethics officer of the university and shall be informed of any alleged violation of paragraphs (C)(1) to (C)(9) of this policy. Offices such as internal auditing or human resources typically investigate alleged violations within their areas of responsibility and will report the results to the general counsel and the appropriate decisional authority. However, the general counsel has discretion at any time to designate a different investigatory authority, including an external investigator, the Ohio ethics commission, or law enforcement.

Any alleged violation that may involve the general counsel, the president, or a member of the board of trustees will be referred to the audit committee of the board of trustees, which may act as it deems appropriate.

(D) Policy on professional workplace behavior

BGSU expects all of its employees, faculty and staff alike, to conduct themselves in a professional manner that promotes a productive work environment and the university's core values. They are expected to exhibit a high degree of personal integrity and professionalism at all times while on the job.

This expectation applies to all interactions with coworkers, supervisors, subordinates, vendors and contractors, students, and visitors.

Disrespectful or unprofessional behavior that a reasonable person would find intimidating, offensive, or humiliating is unacceptable. Such behavior includes but is not limited to shouting or other disruptive behavior; comments that are degrading, demeaning, humiliating or insulting; harassment; retaliation; personal attacks; and acts of insubordination.

Supervisors are to be leaders in exhibiting and promoting professionalism and respect. This leadership includes setting clear expectations as to professional workplace behavior and managing subordinates through regular communication and feedback. Supervisors are expected to address concerns about professionalism and respect through appropriate instructions or corrective action.

Failure to abide by a supervisor's instructions as to professional workplace behavior will be considered insubordination, which is just cause for corrective action up to and including termination.

These expectations of professional workplace behavior are in addition to and do not alter any of BGSU's other workplace policies (including but not limited to those against sexual harassment, unlawful discrimination, and workplace violence). Behavior inconsistent with these expectations may be reported to one's supervisor or through https://www.bgsu.edu/report-incident.html.

(E) Amendments

This policy may be amended or rescinded only by a majority vote of the board of trustees at a regular meeting.

(F) Related policies

(1) 3341-1-7 Delegation of contract and signatory authority

(2) 3341-1-12 Ohio public policy on principles of free speech

(3) 3341-2-41 Title IX sexual harassment

(4) 3341-2-45 BGSU freedom of expression

(5) 3341-3-70 Selection of textbooks and other instructional materials

(6) 3341-5-7 Consensual amorous relationship policy

(7) 3341-5-8 Contact with state/federal legislators and governmental agencies policy

(8) 3341-5-11 Disciplinary policy

(9) 3341-5-28 Violence in the workplace

(10) 3341-5-38 Sexual harassment

(11) 3341-5-41 Non-discrimination in employment and education

(12) 3341-6-7 BGSU information technology

(13) 3341-6-24 Reporting fraud, waste, or abuse of university resources

(14) 3341-6-38 Purchasing, sales, and disposal of university property and asset control

(15) 3341-7-1 Conflict of interest in sponsored programs and research

(16) 3341-7-5 Research misconduct

Last updated March 11, 2026 at 7:49 AM

History

Effective: March 11, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-03 Emergency cancellation, delay, and closing policy.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy provides a framework and protocol for modifying normal operations during seasonal inclement weather, health hazards, active shooter events and other emergencies.

The development of this policy and these procedures has been guided by the belief that the university is a community and as such is usually open during periods of ordinary seasonal inclement weather and other minor disruptions. The university values the safety of all students, faculty and staff yet recognizes that essential operations must also be maintained.

(B) Introduction

Delaying classes, canceling classes or closing the university will be implemented only under unusual circumstances. Every effort will be made to maintain classes and all employees are expected to report to work unless they specifically hear otherwise. However, when health or safety conditions and/or a declared state of emergency warrants, the university may delay opening a campus or specific offices and areas, cancel some or all classes and/or activities, or implement an emergency closing of all or part of the university.

This policy shall apply to students, employees, visitors and persons or companies doing business with the university. In addition, it shall apply to represented employees in accordance with the applicable collective bargaining agreement.

(D) Types of operations

(1) Open

The university's normal operating condition. Students, employees, guests and visitors should assume the university is open unless they have received official communication from the university.

(2) Delay or classes cancelled

The decision to delay or cancel in-person classes resides under the authority of the president or the provost and senior vice president for academic and student affairs. In rare instances, the decision to cancel classes will also include remote classes, online learning and/or the cancellation of student-related activities. For BGSU Firelands, these decisions will be made by the dean of BGSU Firelands.

Employees will still report to work at their scheduled times.

The decisions to cancel or postpone athletic events will be the responsibility of the director of athletics and recreation after consultation with the president or president's designee.

(3) Closed

The decision to close a campus resides under the authority of the president or president's designee. The closure of campus includes the cancellation of in-person, remote classes, online learning and/or student-related activities. In addition, only essential employees or those deemed essential by their supervisor (as defined in paragraph (G) of this rule) are to report to work to continue essential operations. In general, the university or a campus will be closed only for a significant and unanticipated event such as a natural disaster, weather, civil unrest, pandemic affecting the community or significant public emergencies. For BGSU Firelands, these decisions will be made by the dean of BGSU Firelands.

Employees who are working remotely are included in a campus closure.

The decisions to cancel or postpone athletic events will be the responsibility of the director of athletics and recreation after consultation with the president or president's designee.

(E) Communication

The university will communicate any changes in university operations to students, employees, guests and visitors.

(F) Weather related safety

Students, employees, guests and visitors must assume responsibility for their own health and safety, as well as for their class or work responsibilities. If the university is open, employees concerned about their safety for reasons specified in this policy may choose to arrive late to work, leave early from work, or not report to work, but should first notify their supervisor of their intention. Remote work may be allowed at the supervisor's discretion.

In addition, individuals who live outside of Wood county or Erie county may find that their county of residence is under a level three snow emergency when Wood or Erie county is not, making it illegal for them to drive in their own county unless they are essential employees. Employees in this circumstance should notify their supervisor that they cannot drive to work. Remote work may be allowed at the supervisor's discretion.

Unless made up for by remote work, employees shall account for time away from their workplace through the use of accrued vacation, personal leave, compensatory time (hourly employees only), approved leave without pay or the use of a temporary alternative worksite with the approval of their immediate supervisor.

Supervisors are responsible for assuring the employees who report to them are aware of this policy and understand general university procedure and any internal, departmental procedures for emergency closing. In addition, employees are responsible for contacting their supervisors if they are unclear about the status of the university's operation or their need to report to work.

Departments with operations involving external groups (e.g., contractors, vendor-run operations, etc.) will communicate with these groups regarding the university's action.

(G) Essential employees

Annually in the fall, the office of human resources will collaborate with all university divisions to review and establish the essential employee list. Essential employees provide critical services (e.g., snow removal, maintenance of heat/water to residence halls, dining facilities, police, etc.). If deemed necessary by their supervisor, an essential employee is expected to report to or remain at work during campus closure periods. Once the list is finalized, the office of human resources will send all designated staff ID cards identifying them as essential employees.

Equity impact statement: The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated January 3, 2022 at 10:52 AM

History

Effective: January 3, 2022
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-04 Delegation of management responsibility.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy is to provide a clear line for the delegation of executive management in the absence of the president of Bowling Green state university and when other members of the president's cabinet are absent from the campuses. This policy also addresses the limitations for cabinet members traveling together.

(B) Policy succession

(1) The president is at all times responsible for the management of the university. This policy recognizes there may be occasions when the president cannot be reached in an emergency or is otherwise unavailable such as, for example, when traveling to a place with unreliable communications. When the president is unavailable the provost shall assume responsibility for the management of the university.

(2) If the provost is unavailable then the chief financial officer and vice president for finance and administration ("CFO") will assume management responsibilities.

(3) In absence of the president, the provost, and the CFO, the order of succession shall devolve upon the following members of the president's cabinet:

(a) Vice president for partnerships and senior advisor to the president

(b) Vice president for university advancement

(4) The president, or designee, will notify the executive council, and at appropriate times, cabinet, in advance of the dates when he/she is unavailable. Members of cabinet are responsible for keeping appropriate university officials informed of their availability.

(5) The senior administrators listed above are encouraged to avoid traveling together due to the potential disruptive impact to university leadership in the event of an accident.

Under no circumstances will more than two of the senior administrators listed above be permitted to travel together in the same airplane, automobile, train, or bus.

The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated September 21, 2023 at 8:36 AM

History

Effective: September 21, 2023
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-05 Policy on policy development.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The faculty, staff and others associated with Bowling Green state university ("BGSU" or "the university") must conduct the activities of the university in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, ethical standards, and best higher education practices. The university must have policies to accomplish this objective. This policy shall govern how official university policies are defined, proposed, reviewed, approved, issued and maintained. It requires university policies to be maintained in a uniform and consistent format in a searchable central policy database as required by sections 111.15 and 3345.033 of the Revised Code.

University policies must adapt to reflect changing circumstances and so may be subject to amendment or rescission at any time in accordance with the provisions of this policy.

(B) Policy scope

This policy applies to any person subject to a university policy including but not limited to, students, faculty, staff, alumni, volunteers, visitors, and others who provide services or act under the name of the university, including contractors, vendors and consultants.

Each university policy should set forth, in the "policy scope" section, the members of the university community who are subject to the policy.

(1) University policy

A university policy is a written rule requiring or constraining actions that have general broad application across colleges, schools, departments and operating units. A university policy may set forth a governing principle, establish a controlling best practice, ensure compliance with law or regulation, or it may manage university risk. University policies are of such importance that there may be institutional or individual consequences for non-compliance.

(2) Responsible office: The university office responsible for initiating, drafting, and administering a university policy. The responsible office leads policy development and is responsible for identifying, proposing, reviewing and requesting the adoption, modification or rescission of a university policy. This is the university office that will be principally responsible for administering the policy.

(3) Responsible administrator: The university vice president, associate vice president, dean, director or other executive responsible for supporting, sponsoring, recommending and administering a university policy.

(4) Policy statement and purpose: Statement set out at the beginning of a university policy document that summarizes the purpose and core provisions of the policy.

(5) Effective date: The date an official policy goes into effect. This will usually be the date when the policy, filed as a rule, becomes effective in the register of Ohio and the Ohio Administrative Code.

(6) Revision date: The effective date of a revision to an official university policy.

(7) University procedures: The operating procedures developed by the responsible office to implement a university policy. University procedures are not "university policies" and do not have to be approved according to the process described in this policy. University procedures must be consistent with and not conflict with university policies. Procedures that conflict with university policies are void and unenforceable.

Procedures must be reviewed and approved by the responsible officer prior to adoption and publication. Procedures relating to contracts or international activities should be reviewed by the office of general counsel prior to adoption.

(D) Policy

(1) General provisions

(a) Only the university president or the board of trustees of the university shall have the authority to issue an official university policy. The university president shall determine whether a particular policy action will be brought to the board of trustees for board approval. For clarity, the board of trustees may specify that certain policies may be amended or rescinded only by a majority vote of the board of trustees at a regular meeting.

(b) University policies compiled under the authority of this policy are the official version of the policies of Bowling Green state university. While different versions of these policies may appear elsewhere, the official version shall be the one set forth in the searchable central policy database.

(c) All Bowling Green state university faculty, staff and students are expected to know and comply with university policies applicable to them.

(d) The university president has the discretion to construe any ambiguous or disputed policy provision and may delegate this responsibility.

(e) All official university policies shall be centrally maintained by the office of general counsel on its website. Policies should not be paraphrased. Units referencing a policy should link to the full text on the office of general counsel website.

(f) Authority of the university board of trustees and president: Nothing in this policy limits the authority of the university board of trustees or the university president to issue, amend, or revoke university policies or the policies and procedures of any university college, school, or other operating unit at any time.

(g) Application to the board of trustees: Only those university policies that are approved by the board under the board's bylaws are applicable to the board and/or its individual members.

(h) Application to members of a BGSU-recognized bargaining unit: to the extent that any provision of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) conflicts with a university policy, the provision of the CBA shall prevail, unless that provision conflicts with an applicable statute, law, ordinance, or federal regulation or with a rule promulgated under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

(i) Application to the university community: All members of the university community, including visitors, are subject to applicable university policies in effect.

(j) A policy approved by the president or the board of trustees shall remain in effect until modified or rescinded in accordance with this policy.

(2) Adopting new policies, amending or rescinding existing policies.

(a) The issuance of new university policies, or the amendment or the rescission of existing policies, requires the approval of the board of trustees or the university president.

(b) Any university office or unit, including the faculty senate, may identify the need for adopting, amending or rescinding a university policy. Units seeking to adopt, amend or rescind a university policy must communicate that request to the unit's responsible officer who will determine whether to support and sponsor the request.

(c) To ensure that university policies have a uniform appearance and form, university policies shall conform to the standard university policy format prescribed by this policy.

(d) Upon deciding to support a request to adopt, modify or rescind a university policy, the responsible officer shall prepare a draft university policy in compliance with the standard university policy format prescribed by this policy using a template provided by the office of general counsel. The policy format requires a statement of the policy's purpose and scope, relevant definitions and reference to any related policies. The responsible administrator shall also consult first with the office of general counsel and then with affected university stakeholders and constituencies.

(e) The proposed university policy shall be routed to the office of the general counsel for inclusion on the agenda for the policy review council The policy review council will be comprised of seven members including the provost, chief financial officer, general counsel, chief human resources officer, vice president for student engagement and success, chief compliance officer, and secretary of the board of trustees, or their designees. The responsible officer shall also communicate policy stakeholder and constituency feedback, if any, to the policy review council. Before a policy is advanced for review by the policy review council, the president's cabinet will be notified that such policy will be undergoing review.

(f) The policy review council shall consider the proposed university policy and shall make recommendations to the university president or the board of trustees as appropriate. These may include but shall not be limited to: (i) recommending adoption, amendment, or rescission of the proposed university policy; (ii) recommending against the adoption, amendment or rescission; (iii) returning the proposed university policy to the responsible officer for further action as the policy review council may recommend.

(g) The president shall indicate approval by signing the university policy and forward the executed policy to the office of general counsel for inclusion in the policy register and filing in the register of Ohio. The board of trustees shall indicate approval by a resolution enacted in accordance with its bylaws.

(h) University academic policies that are in the academic charter as of the date this policy on policy development is adopted may be included in the central policy register for convenience but shall continue to be subject to the provisions of the academic charter governing amendments of the charter.

(i) Policies already in effect as of the effective date of the policy register, shall be considered approved by the university president.

(j) The provisions set forth in this paragraph shall not apply to revisions of either the student discipline policies and/or the student residence life policies. Revisions thereto shall be effective upon approval by the university president and the provost.

(k) The provisions set forth in this paragraph shall not apply to minor policy amendments. A policy amendment is minor if it is required by law, regulation, or executive order; if it makes non-substantive changes to practices or procedures; or if it is needed to better align the policy with another existing university policy. A minor policy amendment may be made by the university president after consultation with the office of general counsel, the responsible officer, and the responsible unit.

(3) Publication and distribution of policies

Upon receipt of the executed policy from the president the general counsel shall publish the policy in the central policy register of university policies which shall be maintained on the office of general counsel website and file the policy as a rule in the register of Ohio.

(4) Implementation of policies

(a) Upon execution of the university policy by the university president and filing by the general counsel, the general counsel shall notify the responsible officer that the policy has been adopted, modified or rescinded.

(b) Upon notification of the policy approval and filing and of the effective date, the responsible administrator may begin to develop university procedures to implement and administer the university policy.

(c) Retention of superseded university policies and procedures: University policies that have been modified, rescinded or superseded shall be retained for not less than seven years after the effective date.

(d) Related policies: All university policies.

Last updated November 13, 2025 at 7:38 AM

History

Effective: November 13, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-06 Public records.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

To ensure compliance with the Ohio Public Records Act.

(B) Policy

It is the policy of Bowling Green state university (the "university") to comply fully with the letter and the spirit of the Ohio Public Records Act (the "act"). In accordance with this policy, we shall release a public record to a requester within a reasonable period of time unless that record meets a statutory or other legally-recognized exemption that would prevent us from making the record publicly available.

(1) What is a public record?

A public record includes any document, device, or item, regardless of physical form or characteristic, including an electronic record (such as an email), created or received by, or coming under the jurisdiction of any university office, that is kept by a university office and serves to document the:

(a) Organization,

(b) Functions,

(d) Decisions,

(e) Procedures,

(f) Operations, or

(g) Other activities of the office.

(2) What is a public records request ?

A public records request is any transmitted request (whether oral or written) to inspect a public record, or to have a public record copied in any medium and mailed, electronically transmitted or otherwise provided to a requester.

The public records request must describe records with sufficient clarity to allow the university to identify, retrieve and review the records.

The university may deny any part of a public records request that is ambiguous or overbroad or if the university cannot reasonably identify what public records are being requested. If a request is denied for any of those reasons, the university shall inform the requester of the manner in which the university maintains and accesses public records in the ordinary course of business and ask the requester to revise the request. The goal is to clarify and narrow ambiguous, overbroad or inarticulable requests in order to create a successful revised request.

(3) Must the request be in writing?

(a) There is "no" requirement that a public records request must be in writing. In "no" event will a written request be made a condition for receiving a public record from the university.

(b) The office of general counsel, however, may ask a requester to make the request in writing, may ask for their identity, and may inquire about the intended use of the information requested, but may do so only:

(i) After disclosing to the requester that a written request is not mandatory and that they may decline to reveal their identity or the intended use; and

(ii) When a written request or disclosure of the identity or intended use would benefit the requester by enhancing the ability of the university to identify, locate, or deliver the public records sought by the requester.

(4) What are the university procedures for processing a request?

The procedures for processing public records requests at the university are as follows:

(a) Public records requests will be centrally handled by the university's public records officer in the office of general counsel.

(b) In the event that a request is initially received by a department other than the office of general counsel, each such request, whether written or verbal, must be immediately forwarded to the public records officer in the office of general counsel for further processing, unless the office of general counsel has delegated to the department the duty to respond to a defined class or classes of routine requests.

(c) The office of general counsel will ask the office, department, or unit that has custody or control over the records to identify records that are responsive to the public records request.

(d) The office of general counsel will evaluate the request and all records provided by the custodian ascertain if any statutory or other federal or state law exemptions apply and, if so, whether the university should assert those exemptions or waive them. Waivers dealing with material matters, if any, will be discussed with the concerned vice president, the president, and/or the board of trustees, as appropriate. If necessary, redactions will be made by the office of general counsel.

(e) If copies are requested, the office of general counsel will either:

(i) Forward the records directly to the requesting party; or

(ii) Ask the office, department, or unit having custody of the records to forward the records to the requester. If records are requested merely for inspection, the office of general counsel will discuss that matter on a case-by-case basis with the relevant office, department, or unit.

(f) The final transmittal to the requester will identify any redactions or refusals to supply the requested records and cite a legal basis for the refusal and/or redaction. The transmittal will also notify the requester of a university contact person to respond to any additional questions on the matter.

(g) With respect to a request to review records only, all public records responsive to the request shall be promptly prepared and made available for inspection to the requester at all reasonable times during regular business hours. To avoid unnecessary delays, appointments will be made, when practicable, for the inspection of records.

(5) What cost will be charged to the requester?

(a) The office of general counsel may charge the requester for the actual costs incurred per page for copying records and, if the records are mailed, may charge the requester for the actual costs of postage. The office of general counsel may also charge the requester for the actual costs incurred for the provision of the record through a storage transfer or on a storage device, such as a flash drive.

(b) The decision to charge for part or all of the actual costs incurred will depend on one or more of the following considerations: the ability of the requester to pay, the administrative burden of the university to charge for and collect nominal fees, and whether the purposes of the act will be furthered by a waiver of costs.

(c) Depending on the actual costs involved with a particular request, the office of general counsel may require that the costs incurred for copying the records and the costs incurred for other supplies used in the mailing, delivery, or transmission of the documents be charged in advance of supplying the records to the requester.

(d) In no event will the university charge for the labor costs incurred for identifying, compiling, or copying materials. In addition, the university will not charge for the provision of a .pdf document or a response contained in an email that is electronically provided to the requester.

(e) (e) For video records kept by the university's law enforcement agency, see Policy 3341-1-13, Public Records Policy for Law Enforcement Video Records.

(6) Are there any limitations on the number of requests that may be made?

The university may limit the number of records requested by a person that it will transmit by United States mail to ten per month, unless the person certifies to the university in writing that the person does not intend to use or forward the requested records, or the information contained in them, for commercial purposes. For purposes of this paragraph, "commercial" is narrowly construed and does not include reporting or gathering news, reporting or gathering information to assist citizen oversight or understanding of the operation or activities of the university.

(7) This policy will be posted:

(a) In a conspicuous place in those offices, departments, units and other work locations of the university most likely to receive records requests from members of the public;

(b) On the office of general counsel's web site; and

Last updated June 23, 2025 at 1:35 PM

History

Effective: June 23, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-07 Delegation of contract and signatory authority.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The purpose of this policy is for the president to sub-delegate, to other university administrators, certain authority to bind the university as vested in the president by the board of trustees. It identifies the university employees who have been sub-delegated the authority to execute contracts and other legal documents that are binding on the university.

Ohio law vests the governance of Bowling Green state university in the board of trustees. The board of trustees has adopted by-laws which provide for the appointment of the university president who serves as the university's executive officer. Among the powers the board has resolved to delegate to the president is the authority: to bind the university to certain contracts; to execute other legal documents or obligations; and to take certain personnel actions. This delegation excludes those contracts and actions that by law or board action are reserved to the board, which are listed in paragraph (F) of this policy. In this policy, the president sub-delegates the contract making and other signatory authority to specific authorized university officials for each contract and legal document type specified.

The university shall not be bound to any contract or legal document or other obligation made by any individual acting outside the express authority stated by this policy notwithstanding any representations or misrepresentations that may be made about the individual's apparent authority. University employees or agents signing agreements or otherwise attempting to bind the university without first obtaining authority may be personally liable for that contract or legal document, may be subject to legal action, and may also be subject to university disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.

(B) Policy scope

This policy applies to all university employees when acting on behalf of the university.

This policy does not apply to signatures or approvals required for internal university transactions and processes (e.g., time reports, purchase card (P- card) transactions, space reservations, or purchase orders, etc.).

Principal delegations of contract signatory authority are indicated in paragraph (E) of this policy. Sub-delegations of that authority may be made only where authorized by this policy. When permitted, sub-delegations may be made only through written letter to the individual.

Authority to sign a legal document or bind the university to a contract of a type specified in paragraph (E) of this policy is granted to the persons holding the applicable BGSU position identified in that paragraph.

All contracts for purchases of goods or services, including grant-funded purchases, must follow the policy in rule 3341-6-38 of the Administrative Code (purchasing, sales, and disposal of university property and asset control) and other applicable university policies. Having signatory authority does not exempt a purchase from following university procurement policies and processes.

Questions concerning the scope and application of the policy should be directed to the office of general counsel. Specific operational questions may be directed to the employee's immediate supervisor.

(1) A "contract" is any agreement between the university and another party or parties which is enforceable at law. A university contract will most often involve employment, the sale or purchase of goods, services or real property, or the creation of legal relationships with other entities. An amendment to or renewal of an existing agreement or an order issued under a master agreement is also considered to be a "contract."

(2) A "legal document" is any document requiring a signature which is not a contract, that expresses an official action of the university. Executing a legal document changes the university's legal relationship with that person or entity.

(3) "Professional Services" or "Consulting" are services involving special training, skills or experience that the university provides to external entities or procures from outside sources. Examples of professional services providers include architects, designers, and engineers.

(D) Policy

The authority to sign contracts and other legal documents not retained by the board is delegated to the university president who may delegate that authority to specified university officers through this policy.

(1) Delegation to a position. The delegations of authority set forth in this policy are to the position, not to any specific individual. A person in the particular position on an acting or interim appointment assumes the same signing authority as if he or she held the position on a permanent basis. Sub-delegations of signatory authority as permitted by paragraph (E) of this policy must be in writing and maintained by the individuals making and receiving the sub-delegation with a copy to the office of general counsel.

(2) Implied representations by signing. When a person signs a contract or legal document, the signer makes the following implied representations to the university:

(a) The signer is acting within their delegated authority.

(b) The signer has performed an appropriate investigation and inquiry and is satisfied that:

(i) The obligations or promises set out in the contract or legal document conform to university policies, including, but not limited to, policies relating to purchasing and restricting business transactions with university employees and their family members and business associates.

(ii) The obligations assumed by the university in the contract or legal document are consistent with the university's mission, including its business purposes.

(iii) There is no real or potential conflict of interest or there has been adequate disclosure and vetting of any potential conflict of interest.

(iv) The benefits to the university from the transaction are necessary, appropriate, and outweigh the potential risks to the university.

(v) The signer has consulted with appropriate personnel within the university (e.g., finance and administration, purchasing, general counsel, risk management, etc.).

(vi) The agreement does not conflict with existing university agreements.

(vii) The signer has complied with all applicable pre- contract procedures, such as competitive bidding procedures.

(3) Signing own name. Those employees delegated or sub-delegated the authority to sign contracts or legal documents must sign their own names and titles.

(4) Electronic affirmation allowed. When electronic affirmation to bind BGSU to an obligation is used, the person authorizing the obligation must memorialize the essential terms of the transaction in writing or in a secure electronic fashion. Printing out a receipt for an on-line purchase provides an adequate memorial of the transaction.

(5) Conflicts. A person with delegated authority may not sign any contract or legal document or obligate the university to an agreement in which they may have a personal interest preventing objective analysis or may receive a personal advantage or benefit. Contracts and legal documents in this category must first be reviewed to determine whether the conflict is manageable and for compliance with other university policy and Ohio ethics law, and if acceptable must be authorized by the person with authority at the next highest organizational level.

(6) Contracts must be in writing.

(E) Delegations

In addition to the university president, the persons holding the following positions are hereby delegated authority to sign contracts and other legal documents on behalf of Bowling Green state university. No other persons are authorized to sign contracts and other legal documents for or on behalf of the university. No sub-delegations of authority other than those listed below may be made without written approval of the president.

| Contract Type | Signature Authority | | --- | --- | | Accreditation Agreements | Provost | | Advertising Contracts | Contracts less than $50,000: Assistant Vice President for Marketing and Communications. Firelands advertising contracts less than $15,000 - Dean of Firelands Campus | | Affiliation Agreements, except clinical affiliation agreements | Provost or delegee | | Articulation Agreements | Provost of delegee | | Athletic Events (game contracts, broadcast, etc.) and Athletic Suite Licenses | Contracts less than $50,000: Director of Athletics of delegee | | Athletics - NIL agreements with student-athletes | Director of Athletics or delegee | | Clinical affiliation agreements (including agreements for student internships, co-ops, and practicums) | Provost or Deans of the Colleges | | Club Sports (excluding capital improvements, maintenance, custodial, etc.) (For facility use see Facility Rentals) | Contracts less than $50,000: Director of Student Engagement | | College Credit Plus program agreements | Provost or delegee | | Commercialization agreements for university intellectual property not subject to the Patent Policy Commercialization agreements for university intellectual property that is subject to the Patent Policy NOTE: Commercialization agreements are with faculty-led start-up businesses | VPR See paragraph (F) | | Construction Contracts (new construction and alteration of existing facilities) | CFO (upon Board approval as required) | | Consulting Contracts where the university is purchasing consulting services. | Provost or CFO or Purchasing Department per CFO delegation | | Consulting Contracts where the university is providing consulting services or testing | Provost, CFO, CPO, or VPR | | Continuing Education Instructor/ Non- Credit Instructor Contracts | Deans of the Colleges | | Copyright Licensing or Transfer (University-owned copyright) | VPR | | Dining agreements, institutional | CFO or Delegee | | Easements for highway or utility purposes; transfers of jurisdiction between state entities | CFO | | Employee Benefit Agreements | CFO or delegee | | Employment Actions (including appointments and contracts) | By type and subject to compliance with university budget control procedures: Faculty - Deans of the Colleges (with tenure and promotion actions subject to Board of Trustees approval) Administrative Staff assigned to the Colleges- Deans of the Colleges Administrative Staff within their respective areas of responsibility -Vice President/ /CHRO/Chief Well-Being Officer/General Counsel/CPO All classified Staff and all non-continuing appointments - CHRO Vice Presidents - See paragraph (F) Employment actions not listed here or in paragraph (F) - President or delegee | | Enrollment management services contracts | Less than $100,000 -- Vice President for Enrollment Management | | Equipment rental Equipment rental for academic use Equipment rental for student organizations | CFO or delegee Deans of the Colleges Less than $15,000 -Director of Student Engagement $15,000 or more -- VPSES | | Events, conferences, off campus (facility rentals, transportation, catering etc.). | Alumni and Advancement - VPUA Academic or Student Affairs; Inclusion and Belonging; Research Event costs $15,000 or more- Provost Event costs less than $15,000 - Deans of the Colleges (academic) AVSES or delegee (student affairs) ), VPR (research) All others - CFO or delegee | | Facility Rentals (BGSU facility licensed to outside parties) NOTE: When rental involves a Performing Artist, defer to Performing Artist section | Facility Manager* or delegee *Ice Arena, Field House, Rec Center, Stroh All other facilities should be rented through Conference and Event Services | | Financial management, investment advisor contracts | Upon Board authorization, CFO | | Financial Obligation Contracts (e.g., contracts related to issuance of debt) | Upon Board authorization, CFO | | Fire School | 1. Waiver and indemnification for Loan of Academy Equipment - CFO or delegee 2. Memo of Understanding for use of equipment - CFO or delegee 3. Charter for Fire Training from Ohio Department of Public Safety - Provost 4. Training proposals/bids - Dean or delegee 5. Contract for use (destruction) of structure for fire training - CFO or delegee 6. Application for Burn Permit (EPA) - CFO 7. Instructor Contracts - Dean or delegee 8. Lease or Purchase of equipment and Independent Contractor Agreements using the university's standard ICA form - CFO or delegee. | | Gift Agreements or Pledges | VPUA | | Goods or Services Contracts through BGSU Purchasing Department | CFO or delegee | | Grant and Sponsored Project Agreements | VPR or delegee | | Grant and Sponsored Project Proposal Submissions | VPR or AVP, Research and Innovation or delegee | | Immigration/Visa Submissions for Employer Sponsored Work Authorization | General Counsel or delegee | | Independent Contractor Agreements using the university's standard ICA form (such as for speakers, individual providers of professional services not otherwise provided for) | Fee $15,000 or more - Provost or CFO; Purchasing Department per CFO delegation Fee less than $15,000 - Vice President, Dean, Executive Director, or AVP Student Engagement - VPSES or delegee Firelands - Dean or delegee. CFO or delegee | | Insurance Contract Renewals and/or changes Insurance Claim Releases (university as releasor) | CFO or delegee CFO or delegee | | Labor Agreements | See paragraph (F) | | Leases: Capital or Long-Term Lease of real property, space or equipment (university as lessor or lessee) Leases: Non-Capital or Short-Term lease of equipment License agreements allowing use of university land (other than facility rentals) | CFO CFO or delegee CFO or delegee | | Legal Opinions; Legal Documents Required to Complete Business Transactions Releases and Claim Settlement Documents | General Counsel or delegee Less than $50,000 - General Counsel or delegee or Director of Risk Management $50,000 or more - CFO or delegee | | Library Acquisitions | Dean of Libraries | | Maintenance and service of Equipment and Physical Plant | CFO or delegee, except: For contracts to be paid from the Student Affairs budget, VPSES or delegee. (VPSES to notify CFO) | | Maintenance and repair of scientific/research/instructional equipment | Less than $15,000 - Deans of the Colleges $15,000 to $100,000 - Provost $100,000 or more - CFO | | Material Transfer Agreements; Data Use Agreements | VPR or AVP, Research and Innovation | | Medical Devices purchased by Speech and Hearing Clinic for dispensing | Chair, Communications Sciences | | Music Commissioning and Publication Agreements | Less than $15,000 - Dean of the College of Musical Arts $15,000 or more - Provost | | Non-Disclosure Agreements | VPR or AVP, Research and Innovation CFO or delegee | | Patent Licensing or Transfer; including licensing or transfer of rights for other discoveries or inventions Note: Licensing or transfer to a faculty-led start-up is by a commercialization agreement | See paragraph (F) | | Performing Artist/Promoter Contracts Licensing of Performance Rights | By venue and by type Stroh Center or other Athletics facilities - Director of Athletics College of Musical Arts venues - Dean of the College of Musical Arts Wolfe Center for the Performing Arts/School of Art venues - Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Bowen-Thompson Student Union - CFO Student Activities - VPSES or delegee Firelands - Dean of Firelands College | | Professional Associations -- Institutional memberships | Academic memberships - Provost or delegee All others - Vice President, CINO, CFO, CHRO or delegee | | Real Estate Purchase or Lease | CFO per Board Resolution currently in effect | | Recognized Student Organizations (see Policy in rule 3341-2-36 of the Administrative Code) | Less than $15,000 -Director of Student Engagement $15,000 or more - VPSES | | Recreation and Wellness (excluding capital improvements, maintenance, custodial, etc.) (For facility use see Facility Rentals) | Contracts less than $50,000: Chief Well-Being Officer or delegee | | Research and Sponsored Projects | VPR or AVP, Research and Innovation or delegee | | Research Compliance | VPR, Institutional Official (IO), or delegee | | Residence Hall license agreements with students/parents | CFO or delegee | | Sale of Surplus Property | CFO or delegee | | Service agreements other than consulting | CFO or delegee; Purchasing Department per CFO delegation | | Software/SAAS/Web-Based Service License/Subscription Agreements and all ITS Related Services | Less than $100,000 - Chief Information Officer or Purchasing Department per CFO delegation $100,000 or more - CFO | | Technology Transfer Agreements for technology not subject to the Patent Policy | VPR or AVP, Research and Innovation | | Other contracts and legal documents not otherwise provided for | President's written delegation; also see paragraph (D)(1) |

(F) Contracts requiring board involvement

The following types of contracts require reporting to or authorization or approval by the Board of Trustees.

| Contract Type | Signature Authority | | --- | --- | | Commercialization agreements for university intellectual property that is subject to the Patent Policy NOTE: Commercialization agreements are with faculty-led start-up businesses | President after reporting to Board of Trustees; after this reporting, President may delegate to VPR | | Employment Actions (including appointments and contracts) | Vice Presidents - President (subject to Board of Trustees approval) | | Labor Agreements | President after receiving Board authorization | | Patent Licensing or Transfer; including licensing or transfer of rights for other discoveries or inventions Note: Licensing or transfer to a faculty-led start-up is by a commercialization agreement | President after reporting to Board of Trustees |

(G) General counsel review and approval

Contracts involving the following subjects must be reviewed and approved as to legal form by the office of general counsel. No contract of these types may be signed on behalf of the university unless it has first been approved as to legal form by the office of the general counsel and that approval is indicated on the face of the contract or otherwise signified in an auditable manner. Those purchases that are authorized for purchase on a P-card are not subject to this requirement.

(1) Contracts involving the sale or lease or licensing of real property;

(2) Contracts for which the total financial value is greater than one hundred thousand dollars;

(3) Contracts with a term greater than two years;

(4) Contracts for affiliation with other institutions or for foreign study;

(5) Contracts for insurance;

(6) Employment agreements providing for deferred compensation benefits other than those administered by human resources;

(7) Contracts involving ownership or licensing of BGSU patent, copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property;

(8) Gift agreements; and

(9) Contracts containing clauses related to:

(a) Defense, indemnification, or hold harmless provisions

(b) Limiting the amount or types of liability of the other contracting party, its subcontractors, agents, or successors if the contract amount exceeds one hundred thousand dollars;

(d) Automatic renewal if the annual fee exceeds fifty thousand dollars;

(e) The university providing or requiring proof of insurance;

(f) The acceptance of another party's risk or liability or requiring the university to provide a warranty;

(g) Confidentiality, unless there is an exception for public records requests;

(h) Sovereign immunity.

(H) General counsel review not required

Contracts in the following categories do not require general counsel review prior to execution if they satisfy the following requirements:

(1) Contracts that follow exactly a form which has been previously approved, as a form, by the office of general counsel (for example, a purchase order form to which no special language has been added, or categories of contracts which, in the general counsel's written opinion, do not require legal review); and

(2) Contracts that the office of the general counsel has declined to approve but that are approved by either

(a) The president, or

(b) Any two vice presidents when they are satisfied that, as a matter of policy, signing the contract will be in the best interest of the university;

(3) Sponsored project agreements, including grants, awards, and contracts, executed by the division of research, provided that they:

(a) Do not include any clauses related to defense, indemnification, hold harmless provisions, or limitations on liability unless the included language for such a clause was previously approved by the office of general counsel;

(b) Do not contain provisions that establish choice of law, forum, or means of dispute resolution unless the included language for such a clause was previously approved by the office of general counsel;

(c) Do not involve the licensing of intellectual property or the transfer of ownership of a university patent, copyright, or trademark; and

(d) Adhere to the standard terms and conditions for sponsored projects as established by the division of research and approved by the office of general counsel.

(I) Abbreviations:

(1) AVP - assistant/associate vice president

(2) CFO - chief financial officer and vice president for finance and administration

(3) CHRO - chief human resources officer

(4) CPO - chief partnership officer

(5) VPR - vice president for research

(6) VPSES - vice president for student engagement and success

(7) VPUA - vice president university advancement

(J) This university policy supersedes all previous university policies and communications concerning contract and signatory authority.

(K) Related policies

(1) 3341-1-02 ethical conduct and professional workplace behavior.

(2) 3341-6-38 purchasing, sales, and disposal of university property and asset control.

(3) 3341-7-02 copyright.

(4) 3341-7-03 patent policy.

(5) 3341-7-06 commercialization.

Last updated April 8, 2026 at 8:03 AM

History

Effective: April 8, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-6-38

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure the proper administration of the university's purchasing and inventory disposal activities.

(B) Policy

(1) Opening statement

Bowling Green state university shall conduct its procurement activities in an efficient and cost-effective manner to support the mission of the university while maintaining compliance with applicable university, state, and federal laws and regulations. All university procurement activities shall be administered through the division of finance and administration.

(2) Competitive bidding procedures apply to all departments and individuals at Bowling Green state university. For purposes of this policy, "competitive bidding" refers to competitive selection procedures that require the solicitation of proposals (RFP), quotes (RFQ), and or information (RFI) from multiple suppliers of the good or service being considered. Bowling Green state university reserves the right to award none, all, some or part of any competitive bidding event. The purchasing department shall be the only point of contact for prospective vendors during any competitive bidding event until an award is made. Competitive bidding will be required in the following circumstances:

(a) The purchase or lease of any good when the cost is twenty-five thousand dollars or greater; the procurement of services when the cost is fifty thousand dollars or greater; construction projects when the estimated cost is two hundred fifteen thousand dollars or greater; architect and engineer design projects when the cost is fifty thousand dollars or greater.

Competitive bidding events may also be conducted for purchases below the established competitive bidding limits whenever it best serves the interests of the university.

(b) Any purchase or lease of any good or service subject to competitive bidding shall be communicated in a way that is in the university's best interest and as required by university, state or federal regulations.

(3) Waiver of competitive bidding

The purchasing department has the authority to waive competitive bidding when any of the following requirements are met:

(a) Sole source vendor as determined by the responsible purchasing officer, and approved by the vice president of finance and administration (VPFA) or in the absence of the VPFA, by the university's president.

(b) Emergency situation requiring such action as determined by the president, or the vice president of finance and administration, or the designee of either of them.

(c) Need to utilize an existing vendor or to maintain consistency of good/product where changing vendors or utilizing different brands would result in additional cost or unnecessary or excess costs to facilitate a change as approved by the responsible purchasing officer based on satisfactory supporting documentation.

(d) Existing state of Ohio contracts, inter-university council contracts, Bowling Green state university contracts or other institutional memberships utilized as a source for the established price and terms and conditions.

(4) Contract requirements

Bowling Green state university requires purchase orders or vendor contracts when procuring goods or services for the university, except for purchases made through the BGSU purchasing card (PCard) program. An independent contractor agreement is required of all contractors working on behalf of BGSU. The defined signatory per the delegation of contract and signatory policy rule 3341-1-07 of the Administrative Code must approve all contracts and independent contractor agreements.

(5) Grants procurement

(a) All grant expenditures with a cost exceeding ten thousand dollars requires supporting documentation demonstrating that at least two price quotes were obtained for cost comparison. This documentation can be in the form of formal vendor quotes or screenshots of online vendor pricing.

(b) Grants procurement outline of requirements

| Amount | Procurement type | Description | | --- | --- | --- | | $0 - $10,000 | Micro-purchases | No competitive quotes required if the price is considered reasonable | | | | Distribute purchases equitably among qualified suppliers as practical | | $10,001- $250,000 | Small purchases | Price quotations must be obtained from at least two qualified sources | | | | Quotes can be obtained directly from suppliers or through screenshots of online prices | | $250,001+ | Sealed bids | Publicly advertised and solicited from adequate suppliers | | | | Lowest responsive and responsible bidder wins | | | | Contract is a firm fixed price | | $250,001+ | Competitive proposals | Publicly advertised and solicited from adequate suppliers | | | | Most advantageous bid (price and other factors considered) wins | | | | Contract can be either a fixed price or cost reimbursement type | | Any | Non-competitive proposals (sole source) | Good/service is only available from a single source; or | | | | Only one source can provide good/service in the time frame required; or | | | | After solicitation of a number of sources, competition is determined inadequate. | | | | Written pre-approval from the Federal awarding agency is required |

(6) Conflict of interest

No employee, trustee, officer or agent of BGSU may participate in the selection, award or administration of a contract if he or she has a real or apparent conflict of interest. Such a conflict of interest would arise when the employee, trustee, officer or agent; any member of their immediate family; their partner; or any organization that employs or is about to employ any of the parties indicated herein, has a financial or other interest in or a tangible personal benefit from a firm considered for a contract, except as allowed by Ohio ethics law. The employees, trustees, officers or agents of BGSU may neither solicit nor accept gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value from contractors or parties to subcontracts.

(7) Vendors and related ethical/legal issues

(a) Bowling Green state university recognizes the importance of having strong, mutually rewarding relationships with the vendors with whom it does business. The university seeks to maintain and improve these relationships by treating vendors in a fair and equitable manner. Individuals authorized to place purchase orders with vendors on behalf of the university shall do so in accordance with the BGSU code of ethics and conduct policy and shall not allow relationships with these vendors and/or their employees to influence the award.

(b) Ohio Ethics Law (Chapter 102. of the Revised Code) and related statutes (sections 2921.42 and 2921.43 of the Revised Code) also apply to all employees, trustees, officers or agents of BGSU and no employee, trustee, officer or agent of BGSU shall use their position to secure a contract for themselves, their family member or their business associates.

(8) Buy Ohio

The university shall give preference in its purchasing activities to products that are produced or mined in Ohio and to bidders that qualify as having a significant Ohio economic presence in accordance with division (B) of sections 125.04 and 125.11 of the Revised Code. This requirement may be waived when compliance would result in the university paying an excessive price for the product or acquiring a disproportionately inferior product.

(9) Buy America

Division (B) of sections 125.04 and 125.11 of the Revised Code stipulate that state agencies and public colleges or universities shall give preference in their purchasing activities to products produced, mined, or manufactured in the United States.

(10) Equal employment opportunity requirement

Bowling Green state university requires that a supplier in bidding and/or filling a purchase order agrees not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment with respect to tenure, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment, or any matter directly related to employment, because of ethnicity/race, religion, color, gender, sexual orientation, age, veterans and persons with disabilities, or national origin. The supplier also must agree that every subcontract shall contain a provision requiring nondiscrimination in employment.

(11) Minority business

The university shall seek to set aside a specified percentage of its estimated value of all purchases per year for competition by certified minority business enterprises in accordance with section 125.081 of the Revised Code.

(12) Purchases from employees

(a) A university employee would provide the goods or services;

(b) A university employee has, or could be perceived as having, an interest in the vendor's profits or benefits from the contract;

(c) A university employee has, or could be perceived as having, a position of profit in the vendor's performance of the contract;

(d) A university employee has, or could be perceived as having, authority or influence to secure authorization of a contract in which the employee, the employee's family member, or the employee's business associate has an interest; or

(e) A university employee would have a definite and direct pecuniary interest in the contract.

No contract involving any of the foregoing factors may be signed or otherwise authorized on behalf of the university unless it has first been approved in writing as to legal form by the office of general counsel.

(13) Asset control and the sale or disposal of university equipment

(a) Equipment purchased with university funds or held and identified as an asset of the university shall be subject to university inventory control procedures. All equipment purchased with university funds and having a value more than ten thousand dollars (or grant funds with a value more than five thousand dollars) with a life expectancy of more than one year, will be capitalized and must be tagged and assigned an inventory control number. Each year the controller's office will issue an asset summary report to all department asset custodians. All university fixed assets are subject to internal audit review.

(b) The business operations department, working with the controller's office, has responsibility for the sale or disposal of property by one of the following methods:

(i) Redistribution within the university community;

(ii) An advertised public auction with the property being sold to the highest bidder;

(iii) Pursuant to competitive bidding procedures with the award being made to the highest bidder;

(iv) An advertised public sale with the property having a price assigned to each item and sold to the public at a stipulated time and place; or

(v) Property may be disposed of in ways determined to be the most economical for the university.

(i) Determination to dispose of property, preparation of property for sale, determination of the method of sale, or who has acquired information not otherwise available to the general public regarding usage, condition, quality or value of property may then bid on or purchase any property offered for sale by the university.

(ii) To qualify as a purchaser of such property, an employee of the university may be asked to certify in writing that he/she has not participated in any of the activities or acquired information as specified herein above.

(14) Personal purchases

No personal purchases are permitted to be made, either via the purchase order system, a payment request, the university's purchasing card or other institutional purchasing methodology. In addition, no employee may use the university's name or present him/herself as an agent of the university when making personal purchases.

Last updated August 31, 2021 at 8:18 AM

History

Effective: August 31, 2021
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-36

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy outlines how students may register an organization; the appeal process if a proposed organization is denied recognition; and membership, financial responsibility, advisor and meeting requirements for all organizations.

(B) Policy

Recognized student organizations are an important element of the co-curricular activities of Bowling Green state university. They should contribute to the personal development and enjoyment of their members within the context of the broader teaching, research and service missions of Bowling Green state university. Any student group wishing to take advantage of privileges granted by Bowling Green state university must register for recognition with student engagement and residence life. Students interested in registering a student organization should contact student engagement for specific information on the registration process. All groups which meet university requirements for student organizations will be permitted to register. The division of student engagement and success is committed to providing support and assistance to all recognized student organizations properly registered with the university. The initial step in receiving this support is the completion of the annual registration process. Registrations expire annually.

Recognition is a means by which student organizations may receive standard privileges granted when certain requirements are met; it does not imply university approval of the student organization's speech, purpose, function or activities.

(1) Standard registration privileges

Standard privileges are granted to all recognized student organizations that have been recognized upon completion of the registration process. They include:

(a) Use of university facilities, though select event spaces and gymnasiums may carry additional fees;

(b) Opportunity to apply for university funds in accordance with university rules and regulations;

(d) An opportunity for inclusion in university publications, directories and distribution materials;

(e) Ten per cent discount on select catering through BGSU dining;

(f) An opportunity to participate in university organization fairs;

(g) Eligibility for on-campus fund-raising activities;

(h) An opportunity to obtain a student organization mailbox, office and/or storage space in the Bowen-Thompson student union.

(2) Student organizations wishing to register for recognition with the university must submit the following information to student engagement and residence life:

(a) Organizations that are re-registereds must complete the following:

(i) Registration files, including:

(a) A copy of the organization's most recent ratified constitution;

(b) A list f the organization's officers as listed in its constitution;

(d) A full roster of the organization's membership;

(i) If an organization has fewer than ten university students as active members, they must schedule a meeting with staff from student engagment and residence life to create a recruitment plan;

(ii) Organizational membership may be composed of BGSU faculty and staff but a minimum of seventy-five per cent of the membership must be comprised of BGSU students.

(b) New student organizations must complete:

(i) The items listed in paragraph (C)(2)(a) of this rule;

(ii) A full roster of the organization's members. A new organization must have ten university students as members to register.

(c) New student organizations may request temporary organization privileges for thirty days to organize and meet the requirements for registration. Student engagement and residence life will provide advising support during this formation period.

(d) New student organizations may be required to meet with staff from student engagement and residence life to jointly develop a one-page written plan to assist the organization in its development. The plan may include, but is not limited to, attendance at workshops, completion of a recruitment action plan, and participation in leadership training. The written plan must be on file with student engagement and residence life in order for the organization to be in good standing.

(D) Denial of registration

If student engagement and residence life determines that the materials submitted by the organization do not meet the requirements of this policy or that recognition would be inconsistent with viewpoint-neutral university policies, registration may be denied. If registration is denied, student engagement and residence life shall notify the president and advisor of the applying organization of the decision in writing. The applying organization may appeal in writing to the director of student engagement and residence life (or designee) within five working days from the date of the denial letter. The decision of the director of student engagement and residence life (or designee) is final.

(E) Student organization requirements

(1) Membership in registered student organizations shall be open to all students of BGSU without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, creed, ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, pregnancy, religion, age, marital status, disability, status as a veteran, or any other class protected by Ohio or federal anti-discrimination law. Any grievance regarding alleged discrimination should be reported to the office of the dean of students or the office of equal opportunity and compliance as appropriate. There are two exceptions to this requirement. First, Title IX does not apply to the membership practices of social fraternity and sorority organizations. Second, religious qualifications may be required by an organization if its ratified constitution expresses a religious aim or purpose.

(2) Selection criteria for members must be relevant to the goals and objectives of the organization.

(3) Dual-enrolled students, students who are earning college credit while attending high school, including college credit plus, may participate in student organizations, with the exception of social fraternities and sororities and club sports.

(4) Per division (E)(4) of section 3333.0417 of the Revised Code, all organization members must complete anti-hazing training prior to participating in organization activities.

(5) Officers are defined as elected or appointed members who carry official titles and responsibilities germane to the organization, including but not limited to titles such as: president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, chairperson, senator, etc. Appeals for exceptions to this requirement may be made to the director of student engagement and residence life (or designee). The decision of the director of student engagement and residence life (or designee) is final.

(6) Organizations may have as many officer roles as required by their organization's constitution but those roles must include a president, vice president, and a treasurer (or titles which fulfill those duties). The president and treasurer may not be the same person.

(7) Officers defined as president, vice-president, and treasurer (or titles which fulfill these roles) of student organizations must be full-time BGSU students, unless they are in their graduating semester, in good conduct standing, and maintain a minimum cumulative 2.25 GPA. The GPA required by their organization's local or national constitution may be higher than the university's requirement, and the officers and advisors are expected to enforce such requirement.

(F) Financial management and accountability

(1) Recognized student organizations interested in requesting university funding or accessing funds in a university account are required to have their president and/or treasurer attend annual trainings. The president and/or treasurer must comply with university policies related to initiating contracts. Organizations may also complete an alternative plan approved by student engagement and residence life prior to submitting a request for funding and/or accessing university funds. Expenses incurred on-campus (e.g., Falcon outfitters or BGSU dining charges) must be directly billed to the organization and submitted to student engagement and residence life. All other expenses, including travel arrangements, must be submitted to student engagement and residence life, and the staff will coordinate the payment process.

All funds allocated to the organization from university-controlled sources must be maintained in a university account and spent in accordance with university policies and procedures.

(2) Pre-loaded debit cards

Recognized student organizations with non-university allocated funds (i.e., agency or revenue dollars) in a university account may request one pre-loaded debit card. The use of debit cards must comply with all university policies and procedures. Each transaction must be reconciled with student engagement and residence life. Failure to adhere to these expectations will result in the student organization forfeiting its right to have a debit card.

(3) Contracts

Authority to obligate the university by contract in all matters relating to recognized student organizations lies solely with the division of student engagement and success. All contracts involving recognized student organizations' funds managed by the university must be submitted to student engagement and residence life no later than four weeks prior to the event or contracted date, for signature by the director of student engagement and success (or designee) after approval from the university's general counsel (if applicable). The director of student engagement and success (or designee) is the only person who can sign contracts for recognized student organizations. This review is established for the protection of the organization, its officers and members, and the university. Some service providers may not be eligible for use by student organizations because of existing contractual relationships the university has with other vendors.

To expedite the contract review and signature process, all student organizations must submit a request for student engagement and residence life to complete the appropriate agreements. The director of student engagement and residence life (or designee) must pre-approve the use of any contract that differs from this template.

Students shall not participate in forming contracts with entities in which the student or the student's immediate family has an ownership interest.

University employees may not enter into an agreement with student organizations for compensation.

To enter into any agreement, student engagement and residence life requires that a recognized student organization be able to financially cover the cost of any contract without relying on projected revenue (e.g., ticket sales). A student organization might consider co-sponsorship with another organization to secure needed funds.

(4) Student organizations may not use funds to contract with individuals/entities, excluding currently enrolled Bowling Green state university students, in a way that would create an employment relationship. Accordingly, all individuals/entities must follow the university's purchasing policies and meet criteria as an independent contractor. For more information, visit https://www.bgsu.edu/purchasing/vendor-data-forms.html.

(5) Recognized student organizations must maintain records of how their funds are generated and disbursed. This includes an account of the amount of funds, the methods by which funds are generated and expended, and an account of the amount and object of expenditures. Recognized student organizations are to keep receipts for money collected.

(6) Student engagement and residence life may request financial records from any recognized student organization for the purpose of upholding the student organization allocation board policies, university rules and regulations, as well as state and federal laws.

(7) Recognized student organization members shall have the right to know how their money is being spent. The treasurer must keep detailed financial records and make them available to members, the advisor(s), student engagement and residence life, as well as local, state, and federal officials upon request.

(8) All records associated with university fund allocations and expenses are available for public inspection as required by state law.

(G) Recognied student organization advisor

(1) All recognized student organizations are required to have an advisor who is a full-time staff or faculty member at BGSU. Graduate students may not serve as primary advisors to recognized student organizations, except when it is outlined as part of their job duties.

(2) Within the context of the broader mission and policies of the university, advisors shall share insights and directions that allow recognized student organizations to further their objectives and enhance the meaningfulness of organization membership.

(3) Specific responsibilities of the advisor may include but are not limited to: regularly attend general and executive board meetings; provide guidance to the officers; oversee all financial transactions of the organization; ensure that officers meet the minimum requirements for holding office as established by the university and the organization's constitution and bylaws; provide consultation concerning membership selection procedures and responsibilities; and review the organizations registration.

(H) Meetings and activities

Each recognized student organization and its members and officers are responsible for coordinating the activities of the group. This includes:

(1) Planning all programs and activities, including associated facilities and equipment rentals.

(2) Managing and accounting for all funds under the recognized student organization's account.

(3) In the case of sport clubs or groups that engage in physical activity, the group must make sure all rules and safety procedures are followed and in accordance with university policies. They must also obtain, maintain and inspect all necessary equipment, make sure all required training related to equipment usage is completed, and assure that prompt medical attention is available when necessary.

(4) No meetings or activities are permitted from five p.m. the Friday before each week of final exams through the end of the final exam period.

Equity impact statement: the policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated September 19, 2024 at 8:54 AM

History

Effective: September 19, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-09 Faculty workload assignment policy.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy promotes excellence in the areas of faculty teaching and learning, research and scholarly/creative activity, and professional service, and any combination thereof, in accordance with Ohio law. Faculty workload assignments are a crucial framework at Bowling Green state university, designed to ensure that faculty members' responsibilities and efforts are distributed fairly, transparently, and efficiently. Through adherence to the faculty workload assignment policy, the university aims to create a transparent and supportive framework that recognizes the contributions of its faculty members while allowing flexibility and nuance to assign differential workloads among faculty to equitably balance workload.

(B) Policy scope

This policy applies to all BGSU full-time faculty members covered under the collective bargaining agreement between BGSU and the BGSU faculty association - AAUP.

(1) Annual workload

(a) Annual workload is defined as the faculty work assignment for the fall and spring semesters. Annually, each faculty member at BGSU will be assigned duties that ensure that they are fully engaged in the university work of providing an outstanding education for our students and building the university's reputation through scholarly/creative activity. Service should be aligned with the expertise of the faculty and could be outreach in the region and beyond, to the profession, or in university governance. Collectively, the faculty's work assignment will be subdivided in the four major areas of: teaching/librarian effectiveness, teaching-related activities, scholarly/creative activity, and service. The allocation in each area depends on the discipline and faculty member's expertise. A tenure-track faculty member will typically have assigned duties in each of the areas of teaching/librarian effectiveness, scholarly/creative activity and service and a qualified rank faculty member will typically have assigned duties in each of the areas of teaching/librarian effectiveness and service.

(b) The minimum annual workload of full-time (nine-month) faculty equals thirty workload units. The annual workload for twelve-month faculty will be determined by the college dean in consultation with the provost. Each workload unit is the equivalent of one credit hour as defined in 34 C.F.R. 600.2.

(c) BGSU's faculty workload expectations document defines all faculty workload elements and their workload unit equivalents and includes credit hour equivalents for activities other than teaching/librarian effectiveness, such as scholarly/creative activity, clinical care, administration, service, and other activities.

(d) The workload for each faculty member is approved annually by the college dean and the provost. Workload assignments will be made during the preceding spring term before the beginning of the academic year by the department chair/school director. These assignments must be approved by the dean and the provost. Faculty annual performance evaluation policy in rule 3341-1-15 of the Administrative Code, the collective bargaining agreement, and other unit documents provide the processes for annual faculty evaluations.

(2) Defined teaching workload expectations

The range of acceptable teaching assignments is determined through the procedures outlined in BGSU's faculty workload expectations document. Typical teaching loads for tenured and tenure-track faculty range from twelve to twenty-four workload units. Typical teaching loads for qualified rank faculty range from twenty-one to twenty-four workload units. The dean will ensure that the teaching workload of each faculty member, when added to the credit hour equivalents for non-teaching activities, meets the minimum annual workload of thirty workload units (nine-month faculty).

As per the ODHE standards for instructional workloads, minimum expectations for teaching activities will align with the level of programs offered by the department, as follows: at least seventy per cent of the total departmental workload for baccalaureate departments, sixty per cent of the total departmental workload for baccalaureate/master's departments, fifty per cent of the total departmental workload for baccalaureate/master's/doctoral departments, and eighty per cent of the total departmental workload for associate degree departments or programs. There may be department/school programs that differ significantly from the above statement due to differentiation of faculty roles; in these cases, teaching assignments shall be determined by the appropriate academic officer subject to the approval of the provost. Workload expectations are subject to regular review and revision to ensure continued relevance and effectiveness in meeting the needs of the university and faculty.

(D) Violations of policy

If a faculty member fails to comply with this policy's requirements, the university may initiate action including remedial training, for-cause termination, or other disciplinary action, regardless of tenure status and in accordance with the disciplinary process outlined in the collective bargaining agreement. Termination for a violation of this policy requires the recommendation of the dean, provost, president, and approval of the board of trustees.

(E) Periodic review and approval requirement

At least once every five years, BGSU will review this policy to determine if any updates are needed. Any updates will be approved by the board of trustees before they become effective. The policy (as updated, if applicable) will then be submitted to the chancellor.

Last updated December 29, 2025 at 11:36 AM

History

Effective: December 24, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-15

(A) Policy statement and purpose

In accordance with Ohio law, the Bowling Green state university board of trustees adopts a faculty annual performance evaluation policy. This policy establishes the criteria to be used by Bowling Green state university in conducting annual evaluations of each full-time faculty member.

(B) Periodic review and approval requirement

Every five years, BGSU will review this policy to determine if any updates are needed. Any recommended changes will be presented and discussed with the faculty senate executive committee, who may at their sole discretion discuss the recommended changes with the full Senate for an advisory vote. Any updates must be approved by the board of trustees before they become effective.

This policy applies to all BGSU full-time faculty members directly compensated by the university.

(D) Faculty annual performance evaluation

(1) The annual evaluation of faculty must be comprehensive and include standardized, objective, and measurable performance metrics. The performance of faculty covered by this policy will be assessed annually in each of the following categories provided that the full-time faculty member has spent at least five percent of their annual work time performing duties within the category:

(a) Teaching/librarian effectiveness;

(b) Research and scholarly/creative activities;

(d) Clinical care and related professional services;

(e) Administration;

(f) Practitioner engagement in specific areas

(2) Faculty covered by this policy will receive one of the following ratings for each of the categories listed in paragraph (D)(1) of this rule to the extent the categories are applicable to the faculty member's position responsibilities:

(a) Exceeds performance expectations;

(b) Meets performance expectations; or

Criteria and standards that establish the assessment of the ratings are found in provost-approved unit policy documents related to annual reviews, enhanced performance reviews, and/or merit reviews.

(3) Student evaluations of faculty. Teaching assessment should consider a broad range of evidence in determining performance. Student evaluations are a critical indicator and pursuant to Ohio law shall account for at least twenty-five per cent of the annual review in the area of teaching. The office of academic assessment oversees and administers the instrument used for the annual evaluation of teaching.

(4) Projected work effort distribution. Annual reviews establish a projected work effort distribution for the faculty member for the next review period and shall be used during the next year's annual evaluation. The work effort distribution must be compliant with the university's established faculty workload assignment policy in rule 3341-1-09 of the Administrative Code and shall receive approval from the college dean.

(5) Peer evaluations of faculty. Peer evaluations of faculty shall be conducted according to the process described in the provost-approved unit policy for annual performance reviews (APR), enhanced performance reviews (EPR), and annual merit reviews. (Guidelines are available in the joint committee on peer review of teaching effectiveness.)

(6) University personnel responsible for conducting annual faculty evaluations. Evaluations shall be conducted by the department chair/school director and reviewed, approved or disapproved by the college dean, and submitted to the provost for review. If there is disagreement between the department chair/school director and dean, the provost shall have final decision authority regarding the annual review.

(E) Process for conducting the annual review of faculty

(1) The annual timeline for the review of faculty will be conducted as listed on the faculty review schedule posted on the office of the provost's faculty affairs website.

(2) Criteria, standards and processes used for annual reviews may be found on the office of the provost's faculty affairs website - university, college, and academic unit policies and guidelines.

(3) Faculty shall upload their annual review dossier in the electronic review system by the date found on the faculty review schedule.

(4) Annual review dossiers and review letters will be kept in the electronic review system and archived in accordance with college and provost office retention schedules.

(F) Appeal rights regarding final evaluation

(1) Upon receipt of the annual faculty evaluation from the department chair/school director and the college dean, the faculty member may appeal the review within three business days.

(2) An appeal letter shall be uploaded by the faculty member into the electronic review system within three business days of the receipt of the annual review by the department chair/school director and college dean. The appeal letter shall be made part of the final evaluation dossier.

(3) The provost will review the appeal letter along with the complete dossier and review letters provided by the department chair/school director and college dean and communicate their final decision to the faculty member, department chair/school director and dean.

(G) With respect to any collective bargaining agreement entered into after the date of this policy the following apply:

(1) Nothing in this policy may be collectively bargained;

(2) In the event that this policy conflicts with a collective bargaining agreement, this policy will prevail; and

(3) Any past practices required by or associated with a collective bargaining agreement do not impact implementation of this policy.

Last updated December 29, 2025 at 11:36 AM

History

Effective: December 24, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-10 Furloughs.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The board of trustees is authorized to do all things necessary for the proper maintenance and successful and continuous operation of Bowling Green state university. Pursuant to section 371.70.20 of 2009 Am. Sub. H.B. No. 1, and notwithstanding any rule of the institution to the contrary, the board of trustees may adopt a policy providing for mandatory furloughs of employees, including faculty, to achieve spending reductions necessitated by institutional budget deficits. The purpose of this policy is to set forth the general standards for mandatory employee furloughs that may be implemented to address an actual or projected operating budget deficit resulting from a reduction in state funding, a decline in enrollment, or another loss of revenue. In addition, this policy addresses emergency furloughs that may be declared in response to the total or partial closure of the university.

(B) Policy scope

This policy applies to all university employees and supersedes other university policies and practices, provided, however, that employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement will be subject to the terms of the applicable agreement.

A "furlough" is an unpaid leave of absence from work for a specified period of time. An employee may not do work for the university or use paid leave while on furlough. The university may allocate the employee's reduction in pay over the balance of the fiscal year regardless of the pay period or periods in which a furlough occurs. Furloughs for part-time employees will be on a pro-rata basis.

A furlough is not a layoff. A furloughed employee in the classified civil service has no displacement rights.

(D) Employee benefits and contributions while on furlough

Health care, dental care, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance benefits will not be affected by a furlough. Employees will continue to accrue vacation and sick leave during a furlough.

An employee's continuous service credit, review date, and employment status will not be affected by any period of mandatory furlough.

Retirement plan contributions by both employees and the university will be affected by a furlough because contributions are based on actual earnings. FMLA eligibility may be affected because it depends on hours of service.

While on furlough, employees will remain responsible for making all employee contributions (such as health, dental, and other insurance payments, flexible spending accounts, and 403(b) or 457 plan contributions) and all miscellaneous authorized deductions (such as charitable contributions, payments to the university, and child support).

(E) Policy

A furlough may be necessitated by the following circumstances:

(1) Budget deficit

If the president determines that the university is facing an operating budget deficit that is so significant as to necessitate employee furloughs to achieve a balanced budget, a mandatory furlough plan may be implemented in accordance with this policy. In making this determination, the president may consider any relevant actions, declarations, or announcements by the federal and/or state governments.

(2) Emergency conditions

The president, in consultation with the board of trustees, may declare an emergency furlough pursuant to an infectious disease operations plan or similar emergency management plan.

(F) Implementation procedures

(1) The president may adopt a furlough plan that will set forth the amount of furlough time and the period in which it must be taken. The plan may consist of university-designated furlough days, furlough days chosen by the employee with the approval of their supervisor, or a combination of these. Employees may not be furloughed for more than twenty working days in any fiscal year without prior approval of the board of trustees.

Furloughs may be based on employee pay or salary level, classification, or nature of employment; and may take into account the essential operating and safety needs of the university.

To the extent practicable, the university will give employees advance notice of at least one month before requiring any furloughs.

(2) Exclusions

An employee working for the university under an H-1B visa will not be subject to furlough.

Work/study students, graduate assistants, and student workers will not be subject to furlough.

The university may exempt from furlough those employees earning less than a minimum annualized salary, as determined by the president.

History

Effective: May 4, 2020
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-12 Ohio public policy on principles of free speech.

(A) Policy purpose

This university policy affirms the public policy principles as set forth in section 3345.0215 of the Revised Code which requires each public university in Ohio to adopt a policy on campus free speech that is consistent with and adheres to the principles set forth in section 3345.0215 of the Revised Code.

(B) Policy scope

The protections under section 3345.0215 of the Revised Code, which are reflected in this policy, apply to all students, student groups, and faculty. The obligations under section 3345.0215 of the Revised Code, which are reflected in this policy, apply to all employees (faculty and staff included).

"Faculty" or "faculty member" means any person, whether or not the person is compensated by the university, and regardless of political affiliation, who is tasked with providing scholarship, academic research, or teaching. For purposes of this policy, the term "faculty" includes tenured and nontenured professors, adjunct professors, visiting professors, graduate student instructors, and those in comparable positions, however titled. For purposes of this paragraph, the term "faculty" does not include persons who primary responsibilities are administrative or managerial unless the matter involves a course in which the person is the instructor of record.

"Student" means any person who is currently enrolled on a full-time or part-time basis at the university.

"Student group" means an officially recognized group at the university, or a group seeking official recognition, comprised of admitted students that receive, or are seeking to receive, benefits through the university.

(D) Policy principles

In accordance with the public policy and the laws of the state of Ohio, the university affirms the following principles:

(1) Students have a fundamental constitutional right to free speech.

(2) The university is committed to giving students broad latitude to speak, write, listen, challenge, learn, and discuss any issue, subject to division (E) of section 3345.0215 of the Revised Code.

(3) The university is committed to maintaining a campus as a marketplace of ideas for all students and all faculty in which the free exchange of ideas is not to be suppressed because the ideas put forth are thought by some or even by most members of the institution's community to be offensive, unwise, immoral, indecent, disagreeable, conservative, liberal, traditional, radical, or wrong-headed.

(4) It is for the university's individual students and faculty to make judgments about ideas for themselves, and to act on those judgments not by seeking to suppress free speech, but by openly and vigorously contesting the ideas that they oppose.

(5) It is not the proper role of the university to attempt to shield individuals from free speech, inclduing ideas and opinions they find offensive, unwise, immoral, indecent, disagreeable, conservative, liberal, traditional, radical, or wrong-headed.

(6) Although the university greatly values civility and mutual respect, concerns about civility and mutual respect shall never be used as a justification for closing off the discussion of ideas, however offensive, unwise, immoral, indecent, disagreeable, conservative, liberal, traditional, radical, or wrong-headed those ideas may be to some students or faculty.

(7) Although all students and all faculty are free to state their own views about and contest te views expressed on campus, and to state their own views about and contest speakers who are invited to express their views on the campus of a state institution of higher education, they may not substantially obstruct or otherwise substantially interfere with the freedom of others to express views they reject or even loathe. To this end, the university has a responsibility to promote a libely and fearless freedom of debate and deliberation and protect that freedom.

(8) The university hall be committed to providing an atmosphere that is most conducive to speculation, experimentation, and creation by all students and all faculty, who shall always remain free to inquire, to study and to evaluate, and to gain new understanding.

(9) The primary responsibility of faculty is to engage an honest, courageous, and persistent effort to search out and communicate the truth that lies in the areas of their competence.

(E) Nothing contained in this policy shall be construed as prohibiting the university from imposing measures that do not violate the First Amendment to the United States Constitution or Article I, Sections 3 and 11 of the Ohio Constitution such as:

(1) Constitutional time, place, and matter restrictions;

(2) Reasonable and viewpoint-neutral restrictions in nonpublic forums;

(3) Restricting the use of the state institution's property to protect the free speech rights of studetns and faculty and preserve the use of the property for the advancement of the institution's mission;

(4) Prohibiting or limiting speech, expression, or assemblies that are not protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution or Article I, Sections 3 and 11 of the Ohio Constitution;

(5) Content restrictions on speech that are reasonably related to a ligitimate pedagogical purpose, such as classroom rules enacted by teachers.

(F) Nothing in this policy shall be construed to grant anyone the right to disrupt previously scheduled or reserved activities occurring in a traditional public forum.

(G) Nothing in this policy shall be interpreted as restricting or impairing the university's obligations under federal law including, but not limited to, Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 as addressed through its non-discrimination and Title IX policies.

(H) Violations of policy by university employee

(1) Reporting a complaint

(a) Students, student groups, or faculty may submit a complaints about an alleged violation of this policy by an employee of the university. A complaint can be submitted to "See It. Hear It. Report It." incident reporting portal at: https://www.bgsu.edu/report-incident.html.

(b) A complaint must be reported within thirty calendar days of the alleged violation. The complaint must provide the date of the incident, a description of the alleged violation, and the name of the university employee alleged to have violated the policy. Although an anonymous complaint is permitted, the university may have limited ability to investigat it and/or effectively address the complaint.

(2) Investigation and hearing process

(a) A complaint alleging a faculty member violated this policy will be investigated by the office of the provost. This includes an instructor of record engaged in instructional duties for a course that is the subject of a complaint. The provost (or designee) will investigate the complaint and conduct a fair and impartial hearing regarding the alleged violation. If the hearing determines, by a preponderance of evidence, that this policy was violated, the provost (or designee) shall determine the appropriate remedy to address the violation and prevent any further violation of the university policy. Potential disciplinary actions include without limitation, oral reprimand, written reprimand, suspension or termination.

(b) A complaint alleging a staff member violated this policy will be investigated by the office of human resources. The chief human resources officer (or designee) will investigate the complaint and conduct a fair and impartial hearing regarding the alleged violation. If the hearing determines by a preponderance of evidence, that this policy was violated, the appointing authority for that staff member shall determine the appropriate remedy to address the violation and prevent any further violation of the university policy. Potential disciplinary actions include, without limitation, oral reprimand, written reprimand, suspension or termination.

(c) During the process, the faculty or staff respondent may have one individual of their choice to serve as their advisor. The advisor may not impede or interfere with the investigatory meeting. If the advisor is an attorney, the university requires at least forty-eight hours' notice be given to the investigator.

(I) Retaliation prohibited

It is a violation of this policy for any employee to retaliate against or take adverse action toward any person for submitting a complaint or participating in an investigation or hearing regarding an alleged violation of the policy. Any person within the scope of this policy who engages in retaliation is subject to a separate charge of retaliation under this policy.

Last updated January 23, 2023 at 9:07 AM

History

Effective: January 23, 2023
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-13 Public records policy for law enforcement video records.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish rules for the university's law enforcement agency when preparing video records for production or inspection, as allowed by Ohio Rev. Code 149.43(B)(1). These rules are in addition to those set forth in the university's general public records policy.

(B) Policy

(1) Charging for production or inspection costs

The university's law enforcement agency will charge for the actual cost of preparing a video record for production or inspection, not to exceed seventy-five dollars per hour of video produced, nor seven hundred fifty dollars total. Actual cost means all costs incurred by the state or local law enforcement agency in reviewing, blurring or otherwise obscuring, redacting, uploading, or producing the video records. Actual cost includes, but is not limited to, the storage medium on which the record is produced, staff time, and any other relevant overhead necessary to comply with the request.

(2) Prepayment is required

The university's law enforcement agency will require a requester to prepay the actual cost of preparing a video record for production or inspection. It will provide an estimate of the actual cost within five business days of receiving the request.

The university's law enforcement agency is not required to start preparing a video record for production or inspection until the requester pays the estimated actual cost in full.

The university's law enforcement agency will notify the requester if the final actual cost is more than the estimated actual cost. The requester may be required to pay the difference between the final actual cost and the estimated cost if the requester is notified in advance that the final actual cost is more than the estimated actual cost, but the additional charge may not be more than twenty per cent of the estimated actual cost.

(3) Response time

Copies of video records must be produced within a reasonable period of time. Video records must be made available for inspection promptly. "Prompt" and "reasonable" take into account the time it takes the office to retrieve, download, review, redact, seek legal advice regarding, and produce the video record, as well as other facts and circumstances of the records requested. The obligation to produce a video record within a reasonable period of time, or make it available for inspection promptly, does not start until the requester pays the estimated actual cost in full.

Video records will only be available for inspection during regular business hours.

Last updated September 1, 2026 at 11:02 AM

History

Effective: June 23, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-14 Avdancing Ohio Higher Education - Institutional Prohibitions and Affirmations.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Pursuant to Ohio law, the board of trustees is required to adopt a policy incorporating the following prohibitions and affirmations to prevent unlawful discrimination, reaffirm constitutionally afforded rights of free expression, and ensure academic freedom and intellectual diversity at Bowling Green state university.

(B) Definitions

(1) The term "intellectual diversity" means multiple, divergent, and varied perspectives on an extensive range of public policy issues.

(2) The term "controversial belief or policy" means any belief or policy that is the subject of political controversy, including issues such as climate policies, electoral politics, foreign policy, diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, immigration policy, marriage, or abortion.

(1) Prohibitions

(a) The university will not conduct any orientation or training course regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion, unless approved for an exemption by chancellor of higher education because all aspects of the orientation or course are required to do any of the following:

(i) Comply with state and federal laws or regulations;

(ii) Comply with state or federal professional licensure requirements;

(iii) Obtain or retain accreditation.

(b) The university will not maintain or create a diversity, equity, and inclusion office or department.

(d) The university will not contract with consultants or third-parties whose role is or would be to promote admissions, hiring, or promotion on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

(e) The university will not establish any new institutional scholarships that use diversity, equity, and inclusion in any manner. For any institutional scholarships existing prior to June 26, 2025, the university, to the extent possible, will eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion requirements. If the university is unable to do so because of donor requirements, the university may continue to offer those institutional scholarships. However, the university shall not accept any additional funds for the operation of institutional scholarships that have diversity, equity, and inclusion requirements.

(f) The prohibitions of this paragraph do not apply to agreements or contracts regarding any research grants entered into prior to June 26, 2025. In the event that the requirements to obtain a research grant conflict with the prohibitions, BGSU will take steps to comply, to the extent possible, while retaining eligibility for the research grant.

(2) Affirmations

(a) BGSU's primary function is to practice, or support the practice, discovery, improvement, transmission, and dissemination of knowledge and citizenship education by means of research, teaching, discussion, and debate.

(b) BGSU shall ensure the fullest degree of intellectual diversity.

(c) Faculty and staff of BGSU shall allow and encourage students to reach their own conclusions about all controversial beliefs or policies and shall not seek to indoctrinate any social, political, or religious point of view.

(d) BGSU will demonstrate intellectual diversity for course approval, approval of courses to satisfy general education requirements, student course evaluations, common reading programs, annual reviews, strategic goals for each department, and student learning outcomes.

(e) BGSU will not endorse or oppose, as an institution, any controversial belief or policy, except on matters that directly impact the institution's funding or mission of discovery, improvement, and dissemination of knowledge.

(f) BGSU will not encourage, discourage, require, or forbid students, faculty, or administrators to endorse, assent to, or publicly express a given ideology, political stance, or view of a social policy, nor will the institution require students to do any of those things to obtain an undergraduate or post-graduate degree.

(g) BGSU will not require political and ideological litmus tests in any hiring, promotion, and admissions decisions, including diversity statements and any other requirement that applicants describe their commitment to any ideology, principle, concept, or formulation that requires commitment to any controversial belief or policy.

(h) BGSU will not encourage, discourage, require, or forbid students, faculty, or administrators to endorse, assent to, or publicly express a given ideology or political stance in any hiring, promotion, or admissions process or decision.

(i) BGSU will not use a diversity statement or any other assessment of an applicant's political or ideological views in any hiring, promotions, or admissions process or decision.

(j) BGSU will not encourage, discourage, require, or forbid students, faculty, or administrators to endorse, assent to, or publicly express a given ideology or political stance in any process or decision regulating conditions of work or study, such as committee assignments, course scheduling, or workload adjustment policies.

(k) BGSU will seek out invited speakers who have diverse ideological or political views.

(l) BGSU will post prominently on its web site a complete list of all speaker fees, honoraria, and other emoluments in excess of five hundred dollars for events that are sponsored by the university.

(3) Commitment to academic freedom

Essential to the atmosphere of a university is academic freedom, the freedom of speech, freedom to teach, to learn, and to conduct inquiry in a spirit of openness necessary to the acceptance of criticism, the expression of differing opinions, and the pursuit of truth. The exercise of academic freedom by faculty and students carries with it responsibilities for the good of the academic community and society.

(a) Nothing in this policy prohibits faculty or students from classroom instruction, discussion, or debate, so long as faculty members allow students to express intellectual diversity.

(b) Nothing in paragraphs (C)(2)(a) to (C)(2)(d) of this policy applies to the exercise of professional judgment about how to accomplish intellectual diversity within an academic discipline, unless that exercise is misused to constrict intellectual diversity.

(c) Nothing in paragraph (C)(2)(e) or (C)(2)(f) of this policy applies to the exercise of professional judgment about whether to endorse the consensus or foundational beliefs of an academic discipline, unless that exercise is misused to take an action prohibited in paragraph (C)(2)(e) of this policy.

(4) Accessibility services and student organizations

Nothing in this policy prohibits BGSU from complying with any state or federal law to provide disability services or to permit student organizations, including fraternities and sororities.

(D) Violations of policy by university employee

(1) Reporting a complaint

(a) Students, student groups, faculty or staff may submit a complaint about an alleged violation of this policy by an employee of the university. A complaint can be submitted to the "See It. Hear It. Report It." incident reporting portal at: https://www.bgsu.edu/report-incident.html.

(2) Investigation and hearing process

(a) A complaint alleging a faculty member violated this policy will be investigated by the office of the provost. This includes an instructor of record engaged in instructional duties for a course that is the subject of a complaint. The provost (or designee) will investigate the complaint and conduct a fair and impartial hearing regarding the alleged violation. If the hearing determines, by a preponderance of evidence, that this policy was violated, the provost (or designee) shall determine the appropriate remedy to address the violation and prevent any further violation of the university policy. Potential disciplinary actions include, without limitation, oral reprimand, written reprimand, suspension or termination.

Last updated August 20, 2025 at 7:37 AM

History

Effective: August 20, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-16 Faculty Retrenchment Policy.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

In accordance with Ohio law, the Bowling Green state university board of trustees adopts a faculty retrenchment policy.

(B) Periodic review and approval requirement

Every five years, BGSU will review this policy to determine if any updates are needed. Any recommended changes will be presented and discussed with the faculty senate executive committee, who may at their sole discretion discuss the recommended changes with the full senate for an advisory vote. Any updates must be approved by the board of trustees before they become effective.

This policy applies to all BGSU full-time faculty members directly compensated by the university, excluding full-time faculty who have at least thirty years, but not more than thirty-five years, of service in a retirement system at the time of a retrenchment decision. The retrenchment process for full-time faculty excluded from this policy is outlined in the collective bargaining agreement between the university and the BGSU faculty association.

(D) Definition

Retrenchment means a process by which the university reduces programs or services, thus resulting in a temporary suspension or permanent separation of one or more faculty members, to account for a reduction in student population or overall funding, a change to university mission or programs, or other fiscal emergencies or pressures facing the university.

(E) Determining the necessity for retrenchment

Retrenchment may be necessary when a judgment, made by the president, in consultation with the board of trustees, based upon evidence made available to the faculty senate according to the schedules set forth in this policy, indicates at least one of the five circumstances listed in paragraph (F) of this policy exists at the university. Unless paragraph (M) of this policy applies, the university will take no action regarding retrenchment until the president and the board of trustees have reviewed the recommendations from the joint committee on retrenchment.

(F) Circumstances for retrenchment

(1) Financial exigency, defined as financial problems so severe that they threaten the university's ability to maintain its operations at an acceptable level of quality;

(2) Significant reduction in the annual enrollment of a college, department/school, or program over three academic years (not including summer) that is expected to persist;

(3) Discontinuation of a college, department/school, or program;

(4) A significant change to university, college, or academic unit or program mission; or

(5) Action by the Ohio department of higher education, the Ohio general assembly, or an accrediting body that requires the university to implement a retrenchment.

(G) Reductions through attrition first

(1) Normal attrition is the preferred approach to alleviating financial exigency or responding to enrollment patterns.

(2) If the president, in consultation with the board of trustees, determines, according to the criteria listed in paragraph (F) of this policy, that retrenchment is necessary and, further, that in implementing this retrenchment a reduction in faculty is necessary, the university shall attempt to achieve the desired result through attrition, including voluntary early retirement.

(3) If, after completing this procedure, the president, in consultation with the board of trustees, makes the judgment that retrenchment requires reductions in faculty beyond those conducted through attrition, the following paragraphs establish the process for implementing any retrenchment.

(H) Process for retrenchment

(1) Information sharing

The university shall provide to the faculty senate executive committee evidence of the need for retrenchment, based on the criteria listed in paragraph (F) of this policy.

At the same time, the provost shall notify the department chair/school director and college dean of the affected unit(s) or program(s) that retrenchment may be required.

(2) Consultation

Within five business days after receipt of the rationale for retrenchment, a joint committee on retrenchment, with three members appointed by the president and three members appointed by the faculty senate, shall be formed. The provost, or designee, shall chair the committee in an ex-officio, non-voting capacity.

In the case of an anticipated retrenchment affecting a campus, college, department/school, or program, the joint committee on retrenchment's recommendations shall consider, with respect to such campus, college, department/school, or program:

(a) Its historical role and contributions in the university's educational, scholarly, and service mission, and those long-range circumstances which may have changed to alter that role and those contributions;

(b) The dependence of other programs in the university on the campus, college, department/school, or program;

(c) Duplication elsewhere across the university's campuses and colleges of courses, scholarly/creative activity, or services offered through the department/school, college, or program, and possible organizational arrangements which might serve as alternatives to discontinuation;

(d) Arrangements which can be made to allow enrolled students to satisfy degree or certificate requirements;

(e) Stature of its faculty and alumni, and the possible consequences to the academic stature of the university through discontinuation;

(f) The profile of experience, periods of service and tenure status of its faculty and an estimate of their possible usefulness elsewhere within the university;

(g) Possible arrangements for planned phasing out of a campus, college, department/school, or program as an alternative to abrupt discontinuation; and

(h) Any other factors the joint committee on retrenchment deems relevant.

Within thirty calendar days after the receipt of the data and information in paragraph (F) of this policy, the joint committee on retrenchment shall submit its advisory recommendations to the president. The president shall forward these recommendations along with a recommendation to the chair of the board of trustees as soon thereafter as practicable. After receiving and considering the recommendation(s), the board of trustees shall make the final determination to implement retrenchment.

(3) Order of retrenchment

Faculty shall be recommended for release in the following order:

(a) Adjunct/part-time faculty

(b) Nonrenewable qualified rank faculty

(i) Assistant professor

(ii) Associate professor

(iii) Professor

(d) Tenure-track faculty

(i) Assistant professor

(ii) Associate professor

(iii) Professor

(4) Additional factors to be considered

In making the final determination within each category as to whether or not an individual faculty member shall be released, the following additional factors shall be given full consideration:

(a) The quality of the faculty member's contribution in the areas of teaching/librarian effectiveness, scholarly/creative activity, and service;

(b) The impact on the academic program resulting from the release of the faculty member; and

(5) Recommendations on retrenchment

The department chair/school director and college dean of the affected unit(s) shall make recommendations to the provost concerning the individual faculty to be released. Whenever faculty within a category are considered approximately equivalent in the ratings on the factors set forth in paragraph (H)(4) of this policy, then length of service with the university as a full-time faculty member shall also be considered.

(6) Final decision

Based on aforementioned recommendations, the provost shall make the final decision for the university in accordance with paragraphs (H)(3) to (H)(5) of this policy concerning the faculty to be released.

A copy of each final decision shall be sent to the faculty senate executive committee, the BGSU-FA, the department chair/school director, college dean, and the affected faculty members.

(I) Notice of release

Except for circumstances described in paragraph (M) of this policy, the university shall provide notice of release to affected faculty in accordance with the following:

(1) At least twelve months of continued employment, spanning two academic semesters (not including summer), for affected faculty members who receive notice of release in spring or summer semesters.

(2) At least eighteen months of continued employment, spanning three academic semesters (not including summer), for affected faculty members who receive notice of release in fall semester.

(3) The university may provide salary in lieu of the notice required above when such arrangement is agreed upon in writing by the affected faculty member and the university. The university's decision as to whether to provide salary in lieu of notice may not be appealed, and a faculty member may not be compelled to accept salary in lieu of the required notice.

(J) Reinstatement

During a period of two academic years following release of any full time faculty member under this policy, the faculty member shall be offered reinstatement to the same position, if the position is reauthorized. During a period of two academic years following release of a faculty member under this policy, the faculty member may be offered reinstatement to a similar position in any college or campus, if authorized. Any such reinstatement would be subject to the hiring priorities of the academic unit, college, and the university.

(1) Released faculty who have been offered reinstatement shall have a period of thirty calendar days in which to accept or decline the offer of reinstatement and up to thirty additional days before beginning the recalled position.

(2) The university's offer to reinstate, if accepted, shall be at the same tenure level, rank, and salary, adjusted to incorporate any general, non-performance based salary increases that were granted since the time the faculty member was released.

(3) If the faculty member declines the offer of reinstatement, all reemployment options at the University shall be terminated and the position may be filled in accordance with regular employment policies and practices of the university.

(4) If the same or similar position is not reopened within the two academic years referenced above, the faculty member's employment options at the university shall be terminated.

(K) In the event that a part-time teaching position becomes available in the program of a released faculty member and if they have the appropriate qualifications for the position, the faculty member shall receive first consideration for the position. Acceptance or declination of such a part-time teaching position does not affect in any way the options of a released faculty member to reemployment under paragraph (J) of this policy.

(L) A terminated faculty member shall be eligible to continue coverage under the university's group rate benefit programs for health insurance benefits at the faculty member's own expense as provided for under COBRA.

(M) The procedure for retrenchment set forth in this policy is designed to accommodate both the orderly change in the university and reductions that must accompany more abrupt changes in circumstances. Catastrophic circumstances could develop which are beyond the control of the university and would render impossible or unfeasible the implementation of procedures set forth in this policy. Therefore, this paragraph shall not be used to accomplish retrenchment as set forth in this policy. If such unforeseen, uncontrolled, and catastrophic circumstances should occur, then the university agrees that, before taking any action that could be interpreted as bypassing the retrenchment procedures, representatives of the university shall: meet with representatives of the faculty senate executive committee; show evidence of the circumstances described above and that this evidence shall at least satisfy the requirements outlined in paragraph (H)(1) of this policy; and discuss the proposed course of action.

(N) With respect to any collective bargaining agreement entered into after the date of this policy the following apply:

(1) Nothing in this policy may be collectively bargained;

(2) In the event that this policy conflicts with a collective bargaining agreement, this policy will prevail;

(3) Any past practices required by or associated with a collective bargaining agreement do not impact implementation of this policy.

(4) The university may bargain over retrenchment in a new or renewed collective bargaining agreement with respect to faculty members that have at least thirty, but not more than thirty-five, years of service in any one of the state retirement systems at the time of the future retrenchment decision.

Last updated December 29, 2025 at 11:36 AM

History

Effective: December 24, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-17 Faculty Tenure Policy.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

In accordance with Ohio law, the Bowling Green state university board of trustees adopts a faculty tenure policy. This policy applies to all tenured and tenure-track faculty.

(B) Periodic review and approval requirement

Every five years, BGSU will review this policy to determine if any updates are needed. Any recommended changes will be presented to and discussed with the faculty senate executive committee, who may at their sole discretion discuss the recommended changes with the full senate for an advisory vote. Any updates must be approved by the board of trustees before they become effective.

This policy applies to all BGSU full-time tenured and tenure-track faculty members directly compensated by the university.

(D) Statements on tenure

(1) The rights and privileges of tenure are awarded to tenure-track faculty by the board of trustees following either: successful completion of the probationary period; or the offer to hire at the rank of professor, in which case tenure is immediately granted. An associate professor may also be hired with tenure immediately granted.

(2) Tenure shall mean the opportunity to continue full-time employment on the terms and conditions set forth in this policy and the collective bargaining agreement between the university and the Bowling Green state university faculty association through each successive academic year at BGSU in an assignment that is appropriate to the academic credentials, professional training and experience, and previous BGSU employment history as a faculty member.

(3) Tenured faculty members shall have the continuing professional obligation and responsibility to remain informed in their disciplines, in order to render efficient service to the university.

(4) The tenure of a faculty member shall continue until one of the following occurs: death; resignation; retirement; discontinuance of the position due to retrenchment, or termination for just cause.

(5) Tenured faculty who wish to either resign an existing appointment or to retire from BGSU service should notify in writing both the dean and their respective department chair/school director, at least three months prior to the end of the academic year. A waiver of these requirements may be provided by the dean in cases such as disability, health emergency, or other reasons.

(6) A tenured faculty member may be offered and may accept an assignment to administrative duties without interrupting or impairing the faculty member's tenure, but tenure shall apply only to rank and assignment as a faculty member; an administrative assignment is subject to change at any time by action of the university.

(E) Rank for tenure-track and tenured faculty

(1) Assistant professor. Consistent with the discipline, a tenure-track faculty member shall either hold an appropriate doctoral degree or, in those fields where the doctorate is not the typical terminal degree, the appropriate terminal degree from an accredited college or university. Faculty shall have evident ability as a teacher/librarian; give evidence of ability to do scholarly/creative activity and give evidence of the potential to make contributions to the university, community, and/or profession.

(2) Associate professor. Consistent with the discipline, a tenure-track (if eligible for this rank) or tenured faculty member shall hold the appropriate doctoral degree, or in those fields where the doctorate is not the typical terminal degree, the appropriate terminal degree from an accredited college or university. Faculty at BGSU shall have demonstrated ability as a teacher/librarian; demonstrated ability to do scholarly/creative activity as indicated by publications, significant research, or presentation of refereed papers at regional or national meetings, or their equivalent in the creative or performing arts. If currently employed at BGSU, shall give evidence of active involvement in service to the university, community, and/or profession. If initially hired at this rank, shall give evidence of potential contributions to the university, community, and/or profession.

(3) Professor. Consistent with the discipline a tenured faculty member with the rank of professor shall hold the appropriate doctoral degree, or in those fields where the doctorate is not the typical terminal degree, the appropriate terminal degree from an accredited college or university. Faculty shall have an established reputation as a teacher/librarian; shall have an established record of productive scholarship, significant research, or the equivalent in the creative or performing arts. If currently employed at BGSU, shall give evidence of significant service to the university, community, and/or profession. If initially hired at this rank, shall give evidence of potential contributions to the university, community, and/or profession. and give evidence of the potential to make contributions to the university, community, and/or profession.

(F) Standards for tenure

(1) The probationary tenure-track faculty candidate for tenure who has adhered to professional standards or codes of ethics and the Ohio ethics law shall be granted or denied tenure solely on the basis of the following criteria: attainment of the terminal degree or its professional equivalent, teaching/librarian effectiveness, scholarly/creative activity, and service to the university community or profession.

(2) More precise statements of criteria and standards for teaching/librarian effectiveness, scholarly/creative activity, and service used for the granting or denial of tenure are specified by the tenured faculty members in individual academic units. All such statements must be approved by the dean and the provost.

(G) Evaluation for tenure and promotion to associate professor

(1) Probationary tenure-track and tenured faculty members shall be advised of the time when decisions affecting tenure and promotion are ordinarily made and shall be given the opportunity to submit material that they believe to be pertinent to a decision.

(2) Probationary tenure-track faculty members may seek tenure at any time during the period of probationary service, and denial of an early application for tenure shall have no effect on subsequent applications for tenure within the probationary period.

(3) A probationary tenure-track faculty member in the last year of probationary appointment, or who applies for tenure and promotion at an earlier date, shall be evaluated by the eligible voters of the academic unit, and there a single vote of recommendation for or against tenure and promotion to associate professor shall be made.

(4) The academic unit's eligible voters shall consist of those faculty who are tenured and are at or above the rank of associate professor. In academic units with fewer than three eligible voters, the dean of the college shall appoint tenured faculty from related disciplines outside the unit with the consent of the unit's tenured faculty and the department chair/school director. Appointments shall be made so as to maintain integrity of the discipline.

(5) An affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of all eligible voters shall be required to recommend that tenure and promotion to associate professor be granted. Promotion to the rank of associate professor during the probationary period requires a two-thirds affirmative vote of all eligible voters in the academic unit because such action constitutes immediate tenure. Tenured faculty at or above the rank of associate professor have the responsibility to vote in decisions on tenure and promotion to associate professor. An abstention or failure to vote has the same effect as a negative vote, except in the following cases:

(a) Eligible voters on FIL or other approved leaves of absence have the right to participate and vote in these decisions on tenure and promotion to associate professor; however, if they abstain or fail to vote, such abstention or failure to vote shall not be counted as a negative vote.

(b) Consistent with university policies on conflict of interest (e.g., consensual amorous relationships policy, ethical conduct and professional workplace behavior policy), eligible voters shall recuse themselves from participating and/or voting in decisions involving individuals with whom they have a conflict of interest. Such abstention shall not be counted as a negative vote.

(c) With the approval of the dean, an eligible voter may request recusal from participating based on documented extenuating circumstances. Failure to vote due to an approved recusal shall not be counted as a negative vote.

(6) Assistant professors may not be tenured without promotion. Nothing in this policy excludes the matter of promotion to professor from collective bargaining, and nothing in this policy shall be interpreted and/or applied to have any such effect. In those rare cases prior to collective bargaining where the faculty member is a tenured assistant professor, the faculty member shall apply for promotion to the rank of associate professor independently of an application for tenure. In such cases, an affirmative vote of a majority of all eligible voters shall be required to recommend that promotion be granted. An abstention or failure to vote has the same effect as a negative vote, except in the following cases:

(a) Eligible voters on FIL or other approved leaves of absence have the right to participate and vote in these decisions on promotion to associate professor; however, if they abstain or fail to vote, such abstention or failure to vote shall not be counted as negative vote.

(7) In cases where the faculty member begins employment at BGSU as an associate professor without tenure, the faculty member may apply for tenure independently of an application for promotion. In such cases, an affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of all eligible voters shall be required to recommend that tenure be granted. An abstention or failure to vote has the same effect as a negative vote, except in the following cases:

(a) Eligible voters on FIL or other approved leaves of absence have the right to participate and vote in these decisions on promotion; however, if they abstain or fail to vote, such abstention or failure to vote shall not be counted as a negative vote.

(H) Process for making tenure and promotion recommendations

(1) Initial responsibility for applying the established criteria and standards and making recommendations regarding tenure and promotion rests with the academic unit's eligible voters, who shall make a written recommendation to the department chair/school director. No eligible voter shall vote in more than one level of review. If eligible voters have the opportunity to vote at more than one level, they shall vote only at the unit level on candidates from their unit.

(2) The department chair/school director shall submit the recommendation of the tenured faculty of the academic unit and a written statement agreeing or disagreeing with that recommendation to the dean. If the recommendation of the department chair/school director differs from that of the academic unit's tenured faculty, this recommendation of the department chair/school director shall state the reasons for the difference.

(3) Faculty shall have the opportunity to submit an appeal letter within three business days after a recommendation is forwarded to the dean.

(4) The college-level review committee provides an independent recommendation to college deans regarding tenure and promotion.

(5) The dean of the college shall make an independent recommendation after reviewing the written recommendations of the faculty of the academic unit, the department chair/school director, and the college-level review committee. The dean shall then forward all of these recommendations to the provost.

(6) Faculty shall have the opportunity to submit an appeal letter within three business days after a recommendation is forwarded to the provost.

(7) When there are one or more negative recommendations provided by the candidate's unit, department chair/school director, college committee, or dean, the university-level review committee provides independent advice to the provost regarding tenure and promotion.

(8) The provost shall have the responsibility for recommending approval or disapproval to the president and the board of trustees. All written recommendations with appropriate supporting material appended thereto and a record of actions taken shall become part of the permanent personnel files in the office of the provost.

(9) Before the recommendation is forwarded to the next level, the tenure-track faculty member shall be informed in writing of the recommendation at each stage of the evaluation process. Except for the tenure and promotion to associate professor, evaluation occurring during the last year of the probationary appointment, the candidate has the right to withdraw from the evaluation process at any time by informing the department chair/school director, dean and provost, as appropriate. In cases where the candidate has the right to withdraw from the evaluation process, the recommendation shall not be forwarded to the next level and the evaluation process shall cease without prejudice regarding any future request for tenure and/or promotion.

(I) Extension of the probationary period

(1) Specific information regarding extensions of the probationary period is included in Article 11 - in the collective bargaining agreement.

(J) Appeal rights regarding final evaluation for tenure

(1) Upon receipt of the tenure recommendations from the department chair/school director and/or the college dean, the faculty member may appeal the review within three business days.

(2) An appeal letter shall be uploaded by the faculty member into the electronic review system within three business days of the receipt of the tenure review by the department chair/school director and college dean. The appeal letter shall be made part of the final tenure review dossier.

(K) With respect to any collective bargaining agreement entered into after this date of this policy the following apply:

(1) Nothing in this policy may be collectively bargained;

(2) In the event that this policy conflicts with a collective bargaining agreement, this policy will prevail; and

(3) Any past practices required by or associated with a collective bargaining agreement do not impact implementation of this policy.

Last updated December 29, 2025 at 11:36 AM

History

Effective: December 24, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-18 Faculty Post-Tenure Review Policy.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

In accordance with Ohio law, the Bowling Green state university board of trustees adopts a faculty post-tenure review policy.

This policy ensures, through a fair and objective process, that tenured faculty continue to meet the professional expectations established by their academic units. Recognizing the critical role tenure plays in academic freedom and the pursuit of teaching and scholarly/creative activity, this policy aims to realize continued career growth and professional success of tenured faculty.

(B) Periodic review and approval requirement

Every five years, BGSU will review this policy to determine if any updates are needed. Any recommended changes will be presented and discussed with the faculty senate executive committee, who may at their sole discretion discuss the recommended changes with the full senate for an advisory vote. Any updates must be approved by the board of trustees before they become effective.

This policy applies to all BGSU tenured faculty members.

(D) Post-tenure review initiation

(1) This policy recognizes that in some instances tenured faculty may fall short of meeting their professional obligations. Therefore, the post-tenure review process is directed only at those individuals: it is a "targeted review" in which individual performance concerns are identified and remedied. The post-tenure review process is not a blanket, comprehensive post-tenure review of all tenured faculty. Post-tenure review is not engaged on a cyclical basis. It is expected that a "does not meet performance expectations" in any evaluative category will lead to a good faith effort between the affected faculty member and department chair/school director to resolve the performance concern before the next performance review. These efforts will be shared with the college dean.

(2) Pursuant to section 3345.453 of the Revised Code, a post-tenure review is required when (a) a tenured faculty member receives a "does not meet performance expectations" evaluation within the same evaluative category for a minimum of two of the past three consecutive years on their annual performance evaluation conducted pursuant to the faculty annual performance evaluation policy in rule 3341-1-15 of the Administrative Code; or (b) a tenured faculty member, who maintains tenure after the prior post-tenure review, receives an additional "does not meet performance expectations" on any area of the tenured faculty member's annual performance evaluation in the subsequent two years. Tenured faculty may face disciplinary action pursuant to this policy up to and including termination of employment.

(3) A post-tenure review is permitted when the department chair/school director, college dean, or the provost recommends an immediate and for cause post-tenure review at any time for a tenured faculty member who has a documented and sustained record of significant underperformance outside of the tenured faculty member's annual performance evaluation. For this purpose, for cause shall not be based on the tenured faculty member's expression of academic freedom as defined by university policy or Ohio law.

(4) The availability of post-tenure review does not preclude more informal methods of resolving performance issues except where required in paragraph (D) of this policy.

(E) Post-tenure review process

When one or more of the post-tenure review parameters in paragraph (D) of this rule are identified the following review process applies:

(1) Upon the initiation of a post-tenure review by the department chair/school director, or college dean, the post-tenure improvement committee PTIC) will be formed to review documentation submitted and to provide a recommendation to the Provost. The PTIC will consist of two tenured deans and two tenured faculty members (all representing different colleges, none of which are that of the faculty under review) appointed by the faculty senate and approved by the provost.

(2) Throughout the post-tenure review process, all documentation must be submitted through and maintained in the electronic review system.

(3) The initiating department chair/school director, or college dean shall provide a cover letter describing the context for the request for a post-tenure review, the tenured faculty member's evaluative dossier indicating the tenured faculty member "does not meet performance expectations" to the PTIC, the provost, and the affected tenured faculty member.

(4) The tenured faculty member has five business days to provide additional information for consideration by the PTIC and the provost.

(5) After review of all submitted documentation, the PTIC shall submit a recommendation to the provost within fifteen business days. Recommendations may include, but are not limited to the following outcomes:

(a) No action;

(b) Informal conversation with the department chair/school director and no formal action or documentation;

(c) Informal conversation and agreed upon solution that is documented in writing by the department chair/school director, with a copy provided to the tenured faculty member, college dean, and provost;

(d) Development of a performance improvement plan;

(e) Change of workload or reallocation of effort (at the discretion of the university); or

(f) For cause termination.

(F) Administrative action and appeal process

(1) The provost shall review the PTIC's recommendation and issue an outcome within twenty business days. The provost's decision will be forwarded to the tenured faculty member, the PTIC, the department chair/school director, the college dean, and filed in the tenured faculty member's personnel file.

(2) The outcome may include censure, remedial training, for cause termination, regardless of tenure status, and any other action permitted by this post-tenure review policy described in paragraph (E)(5) of this policy.

(3) Except for termination, all post-tenure review decisions fall under the authority of the provost.

(4) If the recommendation is for cause termination, the provost shall forward the recommendation to the board of trustees for action after the appeal process in paragraphs (F)(6) and (F)(7) of this policy has concluded.

(5) If the decision is a performance improvement plan (PIP), the plan shall be developed by the department chair/school director in consultation with the tenured faculty member and approved by the college dean. The PIP should identify metrics for meeting performance expectations and include a follow-up schedule with specific dates and clearly defined goals or work products. Reasonable timelines or milestones should be developed collaboratively between the department chair/school director and the tenured faculty member as professional activities often require time to develop and complete. The PIP shall be deemed successful and complete when the department chair/school director, college dean, and tenured faculty member agree metrics have been accomplished. The provost makes the final determination if there is a disagreement.

(6) The due process period process, from beginning to end, shall not exceed six months. A one-time two month extension may be granted by the university's president.

(7) Within five business days of the date of the provost's decision, a tenured faculty member may submit a written appeal to the president of the university. The appeal must provide the specific reasons why the administrative action by the provost should not be taken and include all relevant documents and information the faculty member requests the president to consider. The president will review the appeal, will consult with the faculty senate executive committee chair and a tenured faculty member from the same or closely aligned discipline, and issue a final written decision within twenty business days indicating what, if any, administrative action will be taken. The president's decision is final and not subject to appeal.

(G) With respect to any collective bargaining agreement entered into after the date of this policy the following apply:

(1) Nothing in this policy may be collectively bargained;

(2) In the event that this policy conflicts with a collective bargaining agreement, this policy will prevail; and

(3) Any past practices required by or associated with a collective bargaining agreement do not impact implementation of this policy.

Last updated December 29, 2025 at 11:36 AM

History

Effective: December 24, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-1-19 Curricular Approval Process.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

In accordance with Ohio law, the Bowling Green state university board of trustees adopts a curricular approval process. Recognizing that the faculty have primary responsibility for the development and maintenance of the university's academic programs, this policy establishes a transparent process for considering curricular changes ensuring that academic units and other members of the university community have the opportunity to provide feedback and recommendations while maintaining the Board's ultimate authority to approve or reject any curricular changes.

(B) Policy scope

This policy applies to the establishment of any new academic programs, schools, colleges, institutes, departments, and centers at the university as well as the modification of any academic programs, curricula, courses, general education requirements, and degree programs.

(1) The "Board" refers to the Bowling Green state university board of trustees. The board has the final, overriding authority to approve or reject any establishment or modification of academic programs, curricula, courses, general education requirements, and degree programs.

(2) The "Provost" refers to the provost or their designee. The provost administers the curricular change process, brings proposed curricular changes to the board for their consideration, recommends action on curricular changes, and may exercise authority to approve curricular changes when delegated by the board, in accordance with this policy.

(3) "Faculty Senate" refers to the faculty senate and, when applicable, faculty senate committee(s). Faculty senate may recommend curricular changes to the Provost and shall be provided the opportunity to provide advice, feedback, and recommendations regarding any curricular changes except when the curricular change is required to be made pursuant to state or federal law.

(4) "Curricular change" means the establishment of any new academic programs, schools, colleges, institutes, departments, and centers at the university as well as the modification of any academic programs, curricula, courses, general education requirements, and degree programs. This includes curricular changes required by law, major curricular changes, and routine curricular changes.

(5) "Curricular changes required by law" means an action required to be taken in order to comply with relevant state or federal law.

(6) "Major curricular change" means any action to approve or reject the establishment of an academic program, school, college, institute, department, or center within the university.

(7) "Routine curricular change" are curricular changes that are not major curricular changes and includes the modification of any academic programs, curricula, courses, general education requirements, and degree programs.

(D) Procedures

(1) Major curricular changes

(a) Proposal. The board, provost, or dean(s) (on behalf of their academic units) after consultation with affected faculty, may recommend a major curricular change. The proposal shall be made in writing and submitted to the provost.

(b) Notification. Upon receiving the written proposal, the provost shall promptly notify the faculty senate, undergraduate/graduate council (as applicable).

(c) Review. The provost shall provide faculty senate, undergraduate/graduate council (as applicable) an opportunity to review the proposal and provide advice, feedback, and recommendations to the provost. The provost may also solicit and accept advice, feedback, and recommendations from other interested parties.

(d) Recommendation. The provost will review each proposal, the feedback from the interested parties and inform the president of the provost's recommended action. Upon concurrence with the president, the provost shall forward to the board the provost's written recommendation and the advice, feedback and recommendation interested parties, or summaries of those recommendations.

(e) Board action. The board has final decision-making authority and may approve, reject, or remand, the provost's recommendation.

(2) Routine curricular changes

(a) Proposal. The board, provost, or the dean(s) (on behalf of their academic units) after consultation with affected faculty, may recommend routine curricular changes. The proposal shall be made in writing and submitted to the provost.

(b) Notification. Upon receiving the written proposal, the provost shall promptly notify the faculty senate, undergraduate/graduate council (as applicable).

(c) Review. The provost shall provide faculty senate, undergraduate/graduate council (as applicable), an opportunity to review the proposal and provide advice, feedback, and recommendations to the provost. The provost may also solicit and accept advice, feedback, and recommendations from other interested parties.

(d) Provost action. The board delegates to the provost, unless otherwise prohibited by law, the authority to approve or reject the following curricular changes: course-specific changes (changes to course titles, prerequisites, etc.), changes to BGP offerings, establishment of new course(s), modifications to an existing course, minor, concentration, certificate, or specialization, combining or deactivating programs, and discontinuing certificates.

The provost's decision will have immediate effect and shall be promptly communicated to the board at its next regular meeting.

(e) Board action. When the provost acts in accordance with the authority delegated to them, the board retains final, authority to override the provost's decision.

When routine curricular changes are proposed, and the provost has not been delegated decision-making authority, the provost shall review each proposal, the feedback from the interested parties and inform the president of the provost's recommended action. Upon concurrence with the president, the provost shall forward to the board the provost's written recommendation and the advice, feedback and recommendation from interested parties, or summaries of those recommendations.

(3) Changes required by law

Certain curricular changes may be required by state or federal law. This includes compliance with section 3345.454 of the Revised Code, which requires the elimination of any undergraduate degree program if the university confers an average fewer than five degrees in that program annually over any three-year period. When such changes are required the provost, in consultation with the dean(s) of the affected colleges, will initiate and undertake any action necessary to implement these changes. The provost may also solicit feedback from faculty senate or other interested parties.

If any such change requires board approval, the provost will submit a proposal to the board which may approve, reject, or remand the proposal.

(E) Advice and ongoing review

All advice, feedback, and recommendations received by the board is advisory in nature.

This policy will be reviewed to determine if any updates are needed, every five years. Any updates must be approved by the board before they become effective.

Last updated March 11, 2026 at 7:49 AM

History

Effective: March 11, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Chapter 3341-2 Policy Statements

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-01 Addresses.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The purpose is to articulate to students not residing in on campus housing that they are require to provide the university with a local address by which the university can send them official correspondence.

(B) Policy

Students not residing in university-owned housing are required to submit a current, correct local address through MyBGSU or to the office of registration and records. Failure to comply with this policy shall not be construed to invalidate any official notice disseminated by the university.

November 1, 2013

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 12:58 PM

History

Effective: March 12, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-02 Postings by students, recognized student organizations, and student groups.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The purpose of this policy is to define where, when and how posting materials by students, recognized student organizations, and student groups is permitted on the Bowling Green state university campuses. Posting includes printed materials, painting and chalking.

(B) Definitions

(1) The "approving office" is the office designated in paragraph (D) of this rule to approve and stamp a posting.

(2) "Recognized student organization" means a group of people who are associated with each other and who have registered with the university as a student organization as outlined in "Student Organizations Policy", rule 3341-2-36 of the Administrative Code.

(3) "Student" means any person who is currently enrolled on a full-time or part-time basis at BGSU.

(4) "Student group" means a group of people who are associated with the university and each other but who have not registered, or are not required to register, as a student organization (e.g., athletic teams, spirit groups, military organizations, honor societies, musical or theatrical ensembles, bands, and/or clubs).

Any student, recognized student organization, or student group must obtain approval before posting. Postings are permitted only in locations described in paragraph (D) of this rule.

Each item to be posted must bear the stamp of the approving office, which will indicate an expiration date. Students, recognized student organizations and/or student groups must remove postings before or on the expiration date.

Consistent with the "BGSU Freedom of Expression Policy," rule 3341-2-45 of the Administrative Code, approval of postings on university general-purpose bulletin boards and by means of sandwich boards will be granted on a content and viewpoint-neutral basis except that posting by students, recognized student organizations, and student groups must not refer to the availability or sale of alcoholic beverages.

(D) Permitted types of postings

(1) Signs, notices, posters, or fliers

(a) University general-purpose bulletin boards

Students, recognized student organizations and student groups may post signs, notices, posters, or fliers on university general-purpose bulletin boards. These bulletin boards are identified by a QR code that links to this policy.

Postings must not obstruct other postings and must not be larger than eleven inches by seventeen inches. Each poster is limited to one posting per bulletin board.

The office of the dean of students, which may delegate authority, is the approving office for university general-purpose bulletin boards. The expiration date shall be two weeks from the date of approval.

(b) University residences

Posting of signs, notices, posters, or fliers within university residence halls shall be in accordance with the "Community Living Standards Policy," rule 3341-2-15 of the Administrative Code, and the residence hall advertising policy.

The office of residence life is the approving office for university residence halls.

(2) Sandwich boards

Recognized student organizations and student groups may put up sandwich boards and other self-standing, temporary forms of advertisement in outdoor locations only. All such items must be sponsored by a recognized student organization or student group and must be stamped and approved by the office of the dean of students or designee before they are displayed.

These items are subject to the following restrictions: each item must be stamped; must not be higher than three feet or wider than four feet, must not be posted for more than five calendar days from the date of approval; must be at least twenty feet from any doorway; and must not obstruct pedestrian or vehicular travel.

(E) Other postings prohibited

Posting is not permitted except as allowed by this policy. Any unauthorized or expired posting will be removed.

(F) Painting and chalking

Painting any sidewalk, grass, building or any other surface except for the "Spirit Rock" is prohibited and considered vandalism. Anyone wishing to paint the "Spirit Rock" may contact conference & event services to make a reservation.

Recognized student organizations and student groups may use chalk (but not spray or paint chalk) on sidewalks to publicize campus events. Messages must be at least twenty feet from the entrance of any university building. The use of chalk on buildings or any other university property is prohibited.

Each chalked message should include the date(s) of the publicized campus events. To the extent consistent with normal campus operations, the university will make a reasonable effort not to remove a properly located chalk message until the last date of the publicized event has passed. If the message does not include a date, the university may remove it at any time.

(G) Exception

This policy does not apply to the posting of spirit signs by organizations created and operated by the university to promote school spirit, such as "SICSIC."

Equity impact statement: the policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated October 11, 2022 at 8:32 AM

History

Effective: October 10, 2022
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-36

(A) Policy statement and purpose

(B) Policy

(1) Standard registration privileges

Standard privileges are granted to all recognized student organizations that have been recognized upon completion of the registration process. They include:

(a) Use of university facilities, though select event spaces and gymnasiums may carry additional fees;

(b) Opportunity to apply for university funds in accordance with university rules and regulations;

(d) An opportunity for inclusion in university publications, directories and distribution materials;

(e) Ten per cent discount on select catering through BGSU dining;

(f) An opportunity to participate in university organization fairs;

(g) Eligibility for on-campus fund-raising activities;

(h) An opportunity to obtain a student organization mailbox, office and/or storage space in the Bowen-Thompson student union.

(2) Student organizations wishing to register for recognition with the university must submit the following information to student engagement and residence life:

(a) Organizations that are re-registereds must complete the following:

(i) Registration files, including:

(a) A copy of the organization's most recent ratified constitution;

(b) A list f the organization's officers as listed in its constitution;

(d) A full roster of the organization's membership;

(i) If an organization has fewer than ten university students as active members, they must schedule a meeting with staff from student engagment and residence life to create a recruitment plan;

(ii) Organizational membership may be composed of BGSU faculty and staff but a minimum of seventy-five per cent of the membership must be comprised of BGSU students.

(b) New student organizations must complete:

(i) The items listed in paragraph (C)(2)(a) of this rule;

(ii) A full roster of the organization's members. A new organization must have ten university students as members to register.

(D) Denial of registration

(E) Student organization requirements

(2) Selection criteria for members must be relevant to the goals and objectives of the organization.

(4) Per division (E)(4) of section 3333.0417 of the Revised Code, all organization members must complete anti-hazing training prior to participating in organization activities.

(F) Financial management and accountability

All funds allocated to the organization from university-controlled sources must be maintained in a university account and spent in accordance with university policies and procedures.

(2) Pre-loaded debit cards

(3) Contracts

Students shall not participate in forming contracts with entities in which the student or the student's immediate family has an ownership interest.

University employees may not enter into an agreement with student organizations for compensation.

(8) All records associated with university fund allocations and expenses are available for public inspection as required by state law.

(G) Recognied student organization advisor

(H) Meetings and activities

Each recognized student organization and its members and officers are responsible for coordinating the activities of the group. This includes:

(1) Planning all programs and activities, including associated facilities and equipment rentals.

(2) Managing and accounting for all funds under the recognized student organization's account.

(4) No meetings or activities are permitted from five p.m. the Friday before each week of final exams through the end of the final exam period.

Equity impact statement: the policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated September 19, 2024 at 8:54 AM

History

Effective: September 19, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-45

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Read not to contradict and confute, nor to believe and take for granted, but to weigh and consider. Francis Bacon, of studies, inscribed on the north faade of the McFall center, Bowling Green state university.

Bowling Green state university (BGSU) exists to create and share knowledge, promote open debate and dialogue, and be a place where multiple views and perspectives can be weighed and considered. So essential are these principles to BGSU that words affirming them were carved in stone on the faade of the university's first dedicated library building.

BGSU is a community of learners and teachers. The university strives to ensure that members of our community feel valued and respected and have a shared responsibility to maintain and promote an environment of civil discourse and mutual respect. At times, the university must allow speech on our campuses that may not align with our values of fostering a campus environment of diversity and inclusion.

As a public university, we are committed to freedom of expression and the rights protected by the First Amendment. This constitutional protection includes, but is not limited to, any lawful verbal, written, audiovisual, electronic/digital, nonverbal-symbolic, or other means by which individuals or groups may communicate ideas or messages, including all forms of peaceful assembly, protests, demonstrations, speeches, distribution of literature, carrying and displaying signs, and circulating petitions.

Harassment, which is also not protected expression, is defined in paragraph (H) of this rule and section 3345.0211 of the Revised Code.

The purpose of this policy is to affirm the university's commitment to free expression and to provide a resource for students, faculty, staff and visitors. An FAQ resource has been developed to provide additional context including definitions of legal terms. The university of Chicago statement on principles of free expression informs this policy and BGSU acknowledges and appreciates the work of the statement's authors.

(B) Policy scope

This policy applies to all students, recognized student organizations, student groups, faculty, staff and visitors concerning expressive activities that take place on BGSU property (owned, leased, or controlled premises), at BGSU-sponsored events, or in connection with a BGSU-recognized program or activity.

This policy shall not be construed to impair any right or activity, including speech, protest, or assembly, that is protected by the U.S. Constitution.

Nothing within this policy shall be interpreted as preventing BGSU from restricting expressive activities that the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution or Article I, Sections 3 and 11 of the Ohio Constitution do not protect. Further, nothing in this policy shall be interpreted as restricting or impairing the university's obligations under federal law including, but not limited to, Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans With Disabilities Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as addressed through its non-discrimination and Title IX policies.

(1) The university welcomes a robust exchange of ideas and acknowledges that this will include protests, marches, demonstrations, petitioning, leafletting, chalking, and other expressions that will take place in outdoor spaces. When conducted on university property these activities are subject to two categories of university regulation:

(a) Rules prohibiting activities that substantially and materially disrupt university operations; and

(b) Rules that regulate the time, place and manner of expressive activities.

The university has both types of rules. The precise application of these rules varies depending on the nature of the university space. The rules must always be view-point and content-neutral, reasonable, and allow for numerous alternative methods of expression. These rules are to be applied narrowly and never in a manner that is inconsistent with the university's core commitment to the free and open exchange of ideas.

(D) Assembly and expressive activities

(1) BGSU strives to support any individual or group endeavoring to engage in expressive activities while undertaking the responsibilities that come with exercising these rights. Some of the responsibilities associated with these rights include ensuring that:

(a) University operations are not substantially and materially disrupted

(b) Building entries and exits, walkways, and roadways remain accessible

(d) The use of signs, notices, posters, fliers, and sandwich boards does not impede university operations

(e) There is no destruction to property or physical harm to persons

(f) The expressive activity does not violate any laws

(g) The expressive activity complies with university policies

(h) The expressive activity does not pose a true threat to persons or the community

(i) The expressive activity does not constitute harassment, as specifically defined in paragraph (H) of this rule, against a specific individual/group that unreasonably interferes with that individual's/group's educational experience

(j) The expressive activity does not endanger the physical safety of others

(2) In order for the university to best assist in meeting these responsibilities, the organizers of a planned event wishing to reserve designated campus grounds must inform BGSU by applying for a reservation for use of campus grounds. Advance notice enables the university to help ensure the activity takes place in a safe manner and that support for the activity is identified, if needed.

(3) Demonstrations, protests, marches, and speakers not invited by the university may not be in campus buildings, or obstruct or disrupt any university operations. In the past, uninvited speakers have used the following areas for speeches, demonstrations, marches and similar expressive activities:

(a) Bowen-Thompson student union oval

(b) Carillon park

(d) Wolfe center terrace

(e) Alumni gateway

(4) Expressive activities are not confined to the outdoor locations listed in this policy and may take place elsewhere in accordance with this policy.

(E) Space and facilities reservations

So as not to interfere with its mission and operation, and without regard to view-point and content of expressive activities, the university has the right to determine the time, place, and manner its spaces and facilities can be used. The use of university facilities and grounds must conform to university policies and to local, state, and federal laws.

Those seeking to reserve campus grounds must comply with the university policy on "Reservations for Use of Campus Grounds."

(F) Use of amplification equipment

Use of amplification equipment must be in accordance with the university policy on "Use of Amplified Sound on University Premises."

(G) Temporary structures

No temporary structure may be erected on campus grounds without prior written approval, as required by paragraph (D) of the university policy on "Reservations for Use of Campus Grounds."

(H) Free speech and harassment

Section 3345.0212 of the Revised Code requires each public university in Ohio to adopt a policy on harassment that is consistent with and adheres strictly to the definition of harassment in section 3345.0211 of the Revised Code.

The university believes that the right of expression is as necessary as the right of inquiry and that both must be preserved as essential to the pursuit and dissemination of knowledge and truth. However, the university's commitment to freedom of expression does not extend to harassment. Under section 3345.0211 of the Revised Code, harassment is defined as expression that is:

(1) Not protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution or Article I of the Ohio Constitution ("Unprotected Expression");

(2) Unwelcome; and

(3) So severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies an individual equal access to the individual's education program or activity.

Expression must meet all three elements to be actionable as harassment under this policy.

Some harassment as defined in this policy may also rise to the level of a crime (e.g., a true threat, child pornography) and should be reported to the BGSU police department. For emergencies call 911 and for non-emergencies call (419) 372-2346.

(I) Guest speakers

The university encourages recognized student organizations, student groups, and university departments to invite speakers to our campuses. Recognized student organizations and university departments must comply with all university policies regarding the reservation of space for non-university affiliated speakers in order to assure orderly calendaring and appropriate support to facilitate the event.

Recognized student organizations must make it clear that the organization, not BGSU, is inviting the speaker and that the views and the opinions of the speaker are their own and not those of BGSU.

(J) Reporting violations

Alleged violations of this policy should be reported to the office of the dean of students. Reports may be submitted via "See It. Hear It. Report It." or by visiting or calling the office at (419) 372-2843 during business hours.

(K) Compilation of relevant policies

The following university documents are most relevant to expressive activities.

(1) Faculty and academic freedom

(a) Article I: "The Basic Principles of the BGSU Academic Charter."

(b) Article 9, BGSU and BGSU faculty association"Collective Bargaining Agreement."

(2) Solicitations on university property are governed by the university policy on solicitation.

(3) Students and student organizations

(a) Student rights and responsibilities

(b) Postings by students, recognized student organizations, and student groups

(d) The code of student conduct in paragraph (G) of this policy

(e) Ohio public policy on principles of free speech

(4) Non-discrimination and workplace-related matters

(a) Non-discrimination in employment and education

(b) Sexual harassment

(d) Official university interactions with legislators and agencies

(e) Title IX sexual harassment policy and procedures

(L) Equity impact statement

The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated June 13, 2023 at 8:31 AM

History

Effective: June 13, 2023
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-15

(A) Introduction to the community living standards

(1) Living on campus is a big part of your BGSU education. Living away from your family within a diverse community will allow you many opportunities for friendship, fun and personal growth. To foster a positive community environment, we expect each student to be sensitive and respectful of the rights and interests of others, be personally honest and never place another member of the BGSU community in jeopardy or at risk.

(2) Within these standards are the rules and regulations that govern community living at BGSU. You will find everything from what kinds of appliances, lights and decorations you may have in your room to guest and safety policies. If you ever have a question about a policy or procedure, please do not hesitate to contact a residence hall staff member or the office of student housing for assistance. Remember, we put students first.

(3) Showing consideration for others and respect for university and personal property are the basic foundations of community living. The success of a residential community and the learning that takes place in this environment depend on the willingness of residents to accept responsibility for their behavior, decisions and actions as community members. Residents are expected to be aware of how their actions, whether written or spoken words, sounds, or public displays of visual material, may make a person or group feel harassed, intimidated, discriminated against, or in some way create a hostile or unwelcome living/learning environment.

(B) Residence life diversity statement

The office of residence life values and recognizes our responsibility to foster an inclusive, safe, and respectful community so our students succeed in a diverse, global society. We are committed to building an awareness of diverse thoughts, ideas, and experiences on our campus in which our community members are empowered to use their voices and be heard.

(1) In keeping with this expectation, the office of student housing and the office of residence life holds as an important value the ability of community members and staff to support the diverse range of student needs and experiences. Included in this range of needs and experiences are the following:

(a) The right to privacy;

(b) An atmosphere conducive to study and academic pursuit;

(d) Respect for the values of each individual; and

(e) Freedom from discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or other protected class.

(D) Residential student responsibilities

(1) Understanding that students have certain rights when living in the residence hall, it is also important to recognize that those same students have responsibilities associated with said rights. In keeping with this expectation, the office of student housing and office of residence life holds as an important value the ability of community members and staff to abide by the general responsibilities including:

(a) Adhering to all university policy and the community living standards;

(b) Respecting the right of privacy;

(d) Respecting the safety and security of the hall, and personal and public property; and

(e) Treating others with equal respect and dignity regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or other protected class.

(E) Housing and assignment policies

(1) Acceptance agreement

All students living in university residences sign the on-campus housing and dining agreement for the full academic year. This agreement establishes the terms and conditions of occupancy in the university residences between the room occupant and Bowling Green state university. All residents are expected to review and understand the obligations outlined in this agreement.

(2) ADA accommodations

Inquiries for accessibility-related housing accommodations should be made to the office of accessibility services. Current students are expected to renew their status with the office of accessibility services on an annual basis prior to the beginning of the housing sign-up process. Upon review of the student's documentation, the office of accessibility services will make a recommendation to the office of student housing regarding the student's approved accommodations. Students with disabilities who require emergency evacuation assistance may meet with the office of accessibility services to complete a personal emergency evacuation plan. The office of accessibility services will share the emergency evacuation plan with the office of student housing, BGSU police, and other emergency response agencies. This plan must be updated annually with the office of accessibility services. Students with a disability may request a meeting, at move-in, with the hall director to discuss all approved accommodations including emergency notification, personal care attendants, emergency evacuation plans, sheltering locations, and evacuation options. The office of accessibility services is located at 38 College Park office building and can be reached via phone at 419-372-8495.

(3) Administrative reassignment

Under the terms of the on-campus housing and dining agreement, Bowling Green state university reserves the right to permanently move and re-assign students should it be deemed appropriate to do so. Students may be moved or reassigned in response to a bias incident, student conduct, safety and security, roommate conflicts, facility needs, consolidation, and any other reason deemed appropriate by the office of student housing.

(4) Assigned space

Each student is assigned one desk, bed, dresser, chair, and closet/wardrobe. Residents must confine their personal belongings to their assigned furniture/space. Should a roommate move out, the remaining resident may not appropriate additional furniture or space not allocated to them as a new roommate may be assigned at any time.

(5) Renting and subleasing assigned rooms

Students assigned to a residence hall room have entered into a license agreement (on-campus housing and dining agreement) with the office of student housing. As such, residence hall rooms are for the use of an assigned occupant (licensee) only. An assigned occupant/licensee may not, under any circumstance, sublease or charge rent or other fees to any third party for use of the space assigned to them under terms of the license agreement. The use of airbnb or similar services is expressly prohibited.

(6) Residency requirement

(a) There are many benefits to living on campus at BGSU. For this reason, all first- and second-year students are required to reside in university-owned residences as a condition of enrollment. Exemptions from this policy may be granted for first- and second-year students who:

(i) Have lived on campus for four semesters;

(ii) Are commuting daily from the permanent home of their parent, legal guardian, or spouse, that is located within a fifty-mile radius of BGSU;

(iii) Have attained junior-level status by the first day of the fall semester;

(iv) Are twenty years of age or older by the first day of the fall semester;

(v) Are married (proof of marriage required);

(vi) Are a parent with custodial care responsibilities (proof of custodial care required);

(vii) Are considered an independent student (as determined by the office of financial aid) by the first day of the fall semester;

(viii) Have served in a full-time capacity in the military for twelve consecutive months or longer;

(ix) Are transferring to BGSU, have been out of high school for a minimum of two years, and have completed at least twelve credit hours at an accredited institution of higher education post high school graduation.

(b) Please note that the office of student housing considers address-of-record on file with federal, state and local tax agencies, where a minimum of one of the student's parent(s) or legal guardian(s) resides, to be the permanent home address of the student's parent(s) or legal guardian(s).

(c) Students who qualify to reside off-campus are required to complete a residential verification form available in the office of student housing. Please note that providing false information to the university is a violation of the code of student conduct.

(7) Dual-enrolled students

Dual-enrolled students are students who are earning college credit while attending high school. Dual-enrolled students are not eligible for university housing.

(8) Room assignments

When making room assignments, reassigments, or moves, the office of student housing will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or other protected class. Students may be moved or reassigned in response to a bias incident, student conduct, safety and security, roommate conflicts, facility needs, consolidation, title IX compliance, and any other reason deemed appropriate by the office of student housing.

(9) Room/suite/apartment changes

Room/suite/apartment changes, including moves made within suites or apartments, must be approved by the supervisor of the residence prior to moving. Room changes between university residences must be initiated with the supervisor of a residence before a new room assignment will be offered. A room freeze (i.e., no room changes occurring, unless it is for health and safety) is established for the first fifteen days of each semester. Requests for room assignment changes based upon discriminatory reasons will not be granted.

(F) Fire safety policies

(1) Candles and incense

Candles of any kind, incense-burning candles or sticks, candle or wax warmers, lanterns, and any open flame devices (whether lit or unlit) are not permitted in any residential building (residence hall or small group living units), including but not limited to student rooms and all common area space, at any time, for any purpose whatsoever.

(2) Damage to or loss of personal property

The office of student housing, "Capstone Management," and Bowling Green state university are not responsible for stolen, lost or damaged personal property. All residents are encouraged to properly insure such items of value via homeowner's or renter's insurance policies.

(3) Decorative trees

(a) Live or cut trees or greens (branches, boughs, etc.) are not permitted in university-owned buildings.

(b) Artificial trees must be of a certified slow-burning or fire-resistant material. Trees not meeting this standard will not be permitted.

(d) Metallic trees shall be lit only by indirect lighting. Lighting sets are not to be hung on metallic trees (possible shock hazard).

(4) Electrical appliances and electronic equipment

(a) Limitations in the availability of power to each room/suite/apartment as well as concern for fire hazards place restrictions on the types of equipment allowed in student rooms/suites/apartments. For this reason, cooking is only permitted in student rooms/suites/apartments in approved combination microwave/refrigerators, or in microwave ovens using nine hundred watts or less. Residents will be held responsible for ensuring that their electrical appliances and electronic equipment conform to the following guidelines.

(b) Approved electrical and electronic equipment and appliances are:

(i) All electrical appliances must be UL or CSA approved and used with a surge protector.

(ii) Coffee makers with no exposed hot surface (such as Keurig).

(iii) Combination microwave/refrigerator units.

(iv) Compact portable refrigerators (size may not exceed 5.0 cubic feet, thirty-six inches in height and 1.5 amps).

(v) Curling/flat irons.

(vi) Hair dryers.

(vii) Microwave ovens that do not exceed nine hundred watts.

(viii) Power strips with surge protectors. It is unsafe to plug one power strip into another.

(ix) Televisions, stereos/radios, CD/DVD/blu-ray players, gaming systems, chargers, computers and peripherals.

(x) Window fans.

(i) Air conditioners.

(ii) Air fryers.

(iii) Appliances with exposed heating elements. Among other things this includes the George Foreman grill and all similar devices.

(iv) Crock pots.

(v) Deep fryers.

(vi) Electric blankets.

(vii) Electric woks.

(viii) Extension cords.

(ix) Fog machines.

(x) Hot plates, toasters and toaster ovens.

(xi) Hoverboards.

(xii) Lava lamps.

(xiii) Multi-plug adapters.

(xiv) Neon signs.

(xv) Percolator or drip coffee pots.

(xvi) Portable heaters.

(xvii) Quartz halogen lights.

(xviii) Sandwich makers.

(xix) Spider lamps.

(xx) Wax warmers (bulb or element).

(5) Fire drills/alarms and emergency evacuations

Fire drills are scheduled periodically in university residences in compliance with state regulations. Every time the fire alarm sounds it must be treated as a real fire and you must evacuate immediately. All persons must vacate the residence any time the fire alarm is sounded or if an emergency situation arises that requires the evacuation of the building. All individuals in the building must follow the directions of the staff and other emergency personnel and may not re-enter the building until the supervisor of the residence gives permission. University, state, or city officials may enter rooms to verify evacuation of residents.

(6) Fire safety equipment

Fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, sprinklers, and fire alarm systems are there for the protection of residents and should be treated with the well-being of all residents in mind. All fire safety equipment (e.g., pull stations, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, sprinklers) must be used for emergency purposes only. Smoke detectors and sprinklers throughout the residence hall are not to be disconnected or covered under any circumstances, nor should anything be hung from them. Tampering with fire safety equipment is a crime and will result in university conduct action, possible criminal action, fines, and fees.

(7) Lighting

(a) Crepe paper or other materials are not to be wrapped around lights.

(b) Building light bulbs are not to be painted or moved. Commercially manufactured colored bulbs may be used if positioned by custodial or maintenance employees.

(c) Only use lighting sets that show "Underwriters Laboratories, Inc." (UL) or Canadian standards association (CSA) label.

(d) Decorative lights used inside buildings must be miniature types.

(e) Lighting sets can wear out or become damaged and should be checked closely before installation for bare wires, worn insulation, broken plugs, loose sockets, etc.

(f) Extension cords are not permitted in student residences. Power strips with surge protectors must be used in place of extension cords.

(g) Be sure circuits are not overloaded with too many lights. If circuit breakers shut off or fuses are blown, there may be a short or an overloaded circuit.

(h) Lighted decorations must not be left on and unattended. They also cannot be daisy chained together.

(i) There must be no pinch in electrical cords. For instance, electrical cords must not be run through door openings.

(j) Decorative lights must not be tightly coiled, wrapped around or pinched, such as under or around a bedpost.

(8) Removal of fire hazards

The university reserves the right to eliminate all potential fire hazards in any residence if deemed necessary or appropriate by a university official or by other authorities that have jurisdiction.

(9) Roofs, ledges, and sundecks

Safety concerns restrict access by students to roofs, ledges and sundecks of university residences. Access to roofs, ledges and sundecks is prohibited outside of their use as fire evacuation routes. In addition, radio and television antennae, satellite dishes or similar devices are not permitted on the roofs, ledges or any building exterior without university approval.

(10) Special amusement buildings

Bowling Green city fire department regulations prohibit haunted houses and similar amusement or educational events in which building occupants or the general public are conducted through a fixed or restricted course. This also applies to creating or building these types of structures on residence hall floors or in common areas.

(G) Non-university furniture

(1) Upholstered furniture

(a) Upholstered furniture used in the university residences must meet strict fire-retardant codes (fabrics must meet the class I requirements of U.S. department of commerce commercial standard 191-53, California flammability bulletin 117, class A-ASTM-E84) or "Upholstered Furniture Section Council" [UFAC] [Gold tag]). Only furniture that meets this fire-retardant code will be permitted in university residences. Other prohibited furniture includes:

(i) Any upholstered furniture that is not classified as fire retardant or does not meet the fire-retardant standards.

(ii) Bean bag chairs or bean bag-like chairs.

(iii) Inflatable furniture.

(iv) Vinyl furniture.

(b) It is the student's responsibility to ensure that any furniture brought into the building meets these standards. Possession of or bringing of furniture into university residences which is in violation of these requirements subjects the student to disciplinary action as well as the cost of the removal and disposal of the furniture.

(H) Residence and room environment

Residents are expected to treat all residence hall common spaces and individual rooms/suites/apartments with respect and care and may be held accountable for damages, other than normal wear and tear, found in the room/suite/apartments. In order to protect the health and safety of all residents, it is expected that all rooms/suites/apartments be kept at an acceptable level of cleanliness. Rooms must be maintained in good sanitary condition and free of any noxious odors. A noxious odor is any aroma of such intensity that becomes offensive.

(1) Bunk beds/lofts

Homemade or rented lofts of any kind are not permitted in any residence hall or small-group living unit, as the furniture provided is already loftable. Placing beds in the bunked/lofted position is entirely optional on the part of the resident. Should a resident wish to bunk/loft a bed, assistance may be requested from the staff at the front desk of the residence hall or the house staff of a small-group living unit. If beds are lofted, bed frames must be securely supported on both sides by university bed ends. A guardrail is provided with every university bed which should be utilized when the bed is in the bunked/lofted position. Should residents utilize their bunked/lofted bed without using the guardrail, they do so at their own risk.

(2) University furniture storage

All university furniture must remain in the room in which it is originally located. The office of student housing does not provide storage facilities for furniture. All furnishings must be returned to the original position in the room before the student checks out of the room. You may be asked to deloft your bed at the end of the academic year regardless of the position of the furnishings at move-in.

(3) Decorations

(a) In an effort to maintain an environment that is safe and free of potential fire and other life safety hazards, residents shall comply with the office of environmental health and safety's following decoration guidelines within their own rooms/suites/apartments and the common areas of the building:

(i) All decorations shall be fire resistant, or noncombustible (Ohio fire code, FM-306.1-5). Decorations must have the label of "Underwriters Laboratory" (UL) or similar standard.

(ii) No decorations may be hung from the ceiling or placed in offices, rooms or lounges in a manner that will interfere with safe passage or evacuation. No decorations shall be placed in hallways, aisles, stairwells or exit routes. Room doors may have a minimal amount (less than twenty per cent) of decorations.

(iii) Exit signs, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, fire alarm pulls, emergency lights, PED boxes and audible fire signals/strobe lights cannot be decorated, covered or obstructed in any way.

(iv) Straw, hay, leaves, corn shocks and dry vegetation are not permitted in any building.

(v) Decorative dirt or sand is not permitted in any building.

(vi) Further information on university policies regarding the use of decorations in university residences is available from the hall or unit director.

(4) Room entry

University officials, including office of student housing, office of residence life and "Capstone Management" staff members, are authorized to enter, search and/or inspect student rooms, suites, apartments and public rooms in the residence halls and small group living units. There are three occasions when room entry may be necessary:

(a) Room inspections: routine and mandated inspections may be necessary to ascertain acceptable standards of safety and hygiene; observance of the community living standards, university regulations, and requirements of public law; and maintenance and repair of equipment. The time and date for building inspections will be posted twenty-four hours in advance.

(b) Room searches: searches of student rooms by university officials shall be authorized and conducted, in a non-discriminatory manner, under one or more of the following conditions:

(i) By the consent of the occupants of the room.

(ii) By warrant or as otherwise allowed by law.

(iii) Upon reasonable cause to believe that there is a violation of the code of student conduct, the Revised Code or other law, or the community living standards.

(c) Performance of duty: university officials reserve the right to enter a student room/suite/apartment, locked or unlocked, at any time it is deemed necessary to respond to an urgent matter such as: immediate resolution of policy violations, addressing disruptive behavior, maintenance problems, illness, hazards, and other similar emergencies or potential crises.

(5) Checkout

Students are responsible for returning their room key upon checkout. When checking out of a room/suite/apartment at the end of the semester or at any time during the semester, the resident will follow the check-out procedures available at the residence hall front desk or from the supervisor of the residence. The resident is responsible for properly completing the checkout procedures and leaving the room/ suite/apartment clean, including vacuuming and dusting. A student who fails to check out of their residence by the deadline/closing date and time may be subject to a late checkout charge. Belongings left at checkout will be considered abandoned property after thirty days and will be treated as such.

(6) University furniture

All furnishings provided by the university, including bed ends and bed springs, must remain in the room/suite/apartment or common areas unless specifically authorized by the supervisor of the residence.

(7) Water beds

Water beds are not permitted in university residences because of weight restrictions in the halls and possible water damage to the buildings.

(I) Residential maintenance

(1) Damage may lead to curtailment of services, loss of ability to make repairs, and/or increased room rates. The actions of individual residents have a profound impact on the community as a whole. In light of this, the university has established the following measures of accountability for damage incurred to university residences.

(a) Room occupants are required to complete and/or review a room inventory form at check-in. The room inventory form should be completed and checked for accuracy as it will be used to assess the condition of the room during or after the checkout process. The cost of repair or replacement of university property damaged since the completion of the inventory form will be charged to the room resident(s). Room furnishings must be in their proper location at checkout. Students are expected to behave in a manner that is respectful of the environment in which they live and which reduces the risk of damage occurring.

(b) Damage may be classified as either accidental or malicious. Accidental damage is damage occurring through unintentional, chance happenings. Malicious damage is damage occurring through intentional happenings, happenings related to alcohol use, or through disruptive behavior resulting in damage. Damage includes any occurrence which necessitates surplus and/or unreasonable custodial and/or maintenance services.

(c) While students are liable for all damages to university residences resulting from negligence, vandalism, accidents or misusein the case of malicious damage, disciplinary action, as well as financial restitution, may be initiated.

(d) Charges for damage to individual student rooms or for suites/apartments will be the responsibility of:

(i) The student who accepts responsibility or is found to be responsible for the damage; or

(ii) The residents of a room/suite/apartment/chapter house where the damage occurred.

(e) A common area is defined as any space other than individual student rooms/suites/apartments. Such spaces include hallways, stairwells, elevators, lounges, kitchens, bathrooms, lobby areas, etc. Charges for damage to common areas in a university residence may be the responsibility of:

(i) Any individual who accepts responsibility or is found to be responsible for the damage; or

(ii) All the residents of the particular wing, floor, building, or small-living unit (Greek village) where the damage occurs. The supervisor of the residence, in conjunction with campus operations staff, and office of student housing, will determine the appropriate action to be taken related to common area damages.

(f) Damage billing and appeals process

(i) Damage billing is typically done at the closing of the living units for break periods. However, excessive or unusual damage may be billed during the semester.

(a) A letter outlining the damages, costs, and appeal process will be sent to the individual student and/or to the Greek chapter president.

(b) The individual will be able to submit a written appeal to the office of residence life during a two-week period beginning from the date of the letter.

(c) A member of the office of residence life will review the appeal and damage billing documentation and make a decision about the appeal. The decision is final.

(ii) Final costs will be billed to the individual or Greek chapter account. Any bill that is not paid in full will be sent to collections by the bursar's office. Once a bill has been sent to collections, the office of residence life cannot reverse the charge.

(g) Replacement cost for damage or loss

It may be necessary to bill students for damages, misuse or loss of items.

(2) Maintenance requests

Concerns regarding maintenance or custodial conditions in your residence and maintenance reports for your room should be submitted online by going to the forms and resources section of the student housing web site. Should you experience problems with this reporting procedure, or to report damages in common area space, contact the front desk in the residence halls or the Conklin front desk for the Greek village. If a requested repair is not completed within seven days, please contact the supervisor of the residence to follow up on the status of your request.

(3) Pest control

The university regularly treats the residence halls for pests (ants, bats, cockroaches, bed bugs, rodents, etc.). If residents become aware of pests in their room or in common areas, the resident must submit a work order and notify residence hall staff to have the room/area inspected/treated for pests. Residence life staff will provide the occupants with instructions for preparing the room for treatment. Failure to abide by the treatment instructions may result in a referral to student conduct and/or financial responsibly for the treatment. If a pest problem continues, the resident must inform hall staff. Residents are prohibited from using personal pesticides or any chemical product that could be considered poisonous in their room.

(4) Recycling

The university supports and encourages students to participate in the recycling of glass, aluminum cans, plastic bottles, office paper and newspapers. Every room has a recycling container which can be used to take the items to designated recycling areas located on each floor and in lobby areas. Trash, and other items unsuitable for recycling (including used pizza boxes), must not be placed in recycling containers.

(5) Trash

In university residences, with the exception of Falcon Heights and Centennial halls, trash must be removed by the student from the building and placed in the dumpsters provided. Trash may not be taken to or left in the lounges, outside building doors, restrooms, laundry rooms, recycling areas, containers or hallways. Failure to remove trash properly may result in disciplinary action or improper checkout charges when moving out of the room. Students who live in Falcon Heights and Centennial halls should dispose of room trash by utilizing the trash chutes found on each floor.

(6) Use and misuse of equipment or property

Expectations and standards for behavior in university residence communities are outlined in these community living standards. When resident behavior does not meet these standards, residence staff will address the behavior with the resident. When appropriate, staff will provide notice to residents on misuse of equipment or property and residents will be given the opportunity to rectify the situation prior to fees being assessed. Charges for items vary depending on the scope of the loss, damage or mess. The amount to be charged to the resident is determined by the supervisor of the residence in conjunction with custodial and maintenance personnel.

(J) Residential network responsible use policy

(1) It is the responsibility of residents to use residential computing facilities and services in compliance with university, city, county, state, and federal laws and regulations. Violation of policies governing the use of residential computing resources may result in the suspension of network or lab use privileges, or other disciplinary action by the university. In an effort to ensure proper use of facilities and services, the following rules are in place to promote responsible use of the residential computing network.

(a) Residential computing network services and wiring may not be modified or extended beyond the area of their intended use. This applies to all network wiring, wireless hardware, and data jacks.

(b) The residential network (in-room connections or computer lab connections) may not be used to provide internet access to anyone outside of the university community for any purposes other than those that are in direct support of the academic mission of the university.

(c) Residents utilizing in-room ethernet connections will receive a network address for their computer. Use of a network address other than the one assigned may cause network problems and is prohibited.

(d) The residential network is a shared resource. Thus, network use or application use which inhibits or interferes with the use of the network by others is not permitted. For example, applications which use an unusually high portion of the bandwidth for extended periods of time, thus inhibiting the use of the network by others, are not permitted. Residential computing reserves the right to terminate any in-room or cluster computer connection without notice should it be determined that network traffic generated from that connection inhibits or interferes with the use of the network by others.

(K) Computer lab responsible use policy

The residential computer labs are provided as work environments for students and members of the residential community. The primary use of these resources is for academic-related work. All other uses are considered secondary.

(1) During the academic year, residential computing resources are for use of the on-campus student population. The only exceptions to this policy are: use by residential computing staff and use by university faculty and staff for presenting classes or seminars to on-campus students.

(2) Academic work by students takes precedence over all other uses of the lab computers (such as games, non-academic e-mail, non-academic Internet browsing, etc.). When the lab is full and other residents are waiting to use a lab computer, non-academic use is prohibited.

(3) Printing to lab printers is limited to academic work and to single copies of the material.

(4) Usage of the lab is governed by the community living standards (for example, quiet hours) and by any specific lab rules approved and posted by residential computing.

(5) Anyone whose use of the computer lab hampers, endangers or otherwise disrupts other students' use of the computer lab may be asked to leave by residential computing staff.

(6) Anyone who is using a computer to display material that a reasonable person would consider objectionable may be requested to move to another computer.

(7) Accessibility to a residential computing lab when staff are not present is conditional upon responsible use. Residential computing labs operate with a base number of hours with staff present. Labs may also operate without staff present for extended access hours. Continuation of extended access hours is conditional upon:

(a) No theft of equipment or residential computing materials.

(b) No damage to the lab or any items in the lab.

(d) No abuse of the lab or of posted lab rules.

(8) Possession of food and drink, and the use of all tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, is prohibited in residential computing labs.

(L) Safety and security

(1) Safety is a priority at BGSU. Emergency telephones that ring directly into the police station are located all across campus and new lighting has been installed in many areas. Within the residence halls there are student clerks who make rounds of the residences and report safety and security concerns. However, all residents play a role in maintaining a safe environment in their living units. Educational initiatives in the residences may include sessions on safety precautions ranging from making sure to lock your door when you leave your room or when you are sleeping to not propping open exterior doors. Residents are also encouraged to immediately report any behavior that violates policy or law in or around the residence to the residence hall, house staff or university police. All student residences are equipped with an electronic door access system on exterior doors. Students will use their BG1 card to use to gain access to their place of residence. In keeping with the university's commitment to providing students with a healthy and safe environment conducive to intellectual pursuits and personal development, students are expected to know and abide by the following safety policies.

(2) Bathrooms. There are guest bathrooms located in the lobby of most residential units. All bathrooms on residence hall floors, with the exception of Greek units, are fitted with card access. Your BG1 card must not be shared with others. Such sharing compromises the safety and security of the entire floor and building, and those suspected of sharing this information are subject to disciplinary action. Bathroom doors are to be closed at all times (except when being cleaned by custodial staff). Anyone propping or disabling the locking mechanism on bathroom doors is subject to disciplinary action.

(3) Electronic door access system. All of the university residences have been equipped with an electronic door access system. The effectiveness of this system is dependent upon its proper use. Misuse and mismanagement of BG1 card reduces the system's effectiveness and places the safety of all residents at risk. Propping of doors that are electronically supervised will sound an alarm and alert the building staff of the residence of an illegal entry. Tampering with the electronic door access system makes for an unsafe living environment, is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.

(4) Elevators. Some of the residence halls have passenger elevators. Use of the elevators may be limited on occasion in order to accommodate residents or guests with a disability, the moving of belongings or for emergencies. Use of the elevators is a privilege and students are expected to make use of them in a responsible, safe and respectful manner. In keeping with this expectation, tampering with the alarm, misuse (i.e., jumping, overloading, etc.), defacing of the elevators, or entering the elevator shaft is prohibited. Elevators in the Greek units may only be used for individuals with disabilities and are not available for general use by building occupants.

(5) Keys and BG1 card. Students will be issued a key and provided building access on their BG1 card, which they are expected to use responsibly, taking into consideration the safety, security and privacy of other residents. Keys and BG1 card are for personal use only, and students are not to duplicate, loan or share these with others at any time. Keys and BG1 card are the property of the university and may not be duplicated or modified in anyway. Keys must be returned when a student checks out of the room and/or suite/apartment or at the request of the supervisor of the residence. A person suspected of duplicating or sharing their key or BG1 card may be subject to disciplinary action.

(6) Lost or stolen keys/BG1 card. Should a key or BG1 card be lost or stolen, students are responsible for reporting the lost or stolen item to the front desk or supervisor of the residence immediately so that appropriate steps can be taken to prevent illegal entry. Students will incur a cost for obtaining a replacement personal entry device. New locks for either the room/suite/apartment or for all exterior doors to the residence will be installed depending upon which key or keys have been lost or stolen. The cost of replacing locks and keys will be incurred by the responsible party.

(7) Lock-out key policy. Students who are accidentally locked out of their rooms/suites/apartments can obtain a lock-out key and temporary PED from the front desk or supervisor of the residence. The lock-out key and temporary PED is for short-term use and should be returned within thirty minutes. Use of the lock-out key or temporary PED, in excess of two times during a given semester is considered excessive and students will be charged for each additional use of a lock-out key, since all students are expected to carry their keys and personal entry devices (PEDs) with them at all times.

(a) To encourage students to use their keys responsibly and to protect university property as well as all persons and property of persons that may be at risk due to lock outs, the following schedule of charges applies for lock-outs each semester.

(i) Fee schedule

(a) First and second time: no fee.

(b) Third time: five dollars.

(d) Fifth time: twenty dollars, and student shall face conduct action for the fifth and any subsequent lock-out.

(e) Sixth time: forty dollars.

(f) Seventh or more: the seventh and all subsequent lock-outs during the semester will be assessed at eighty dollars per lock-out.

(g) Failure to return the lock-out key or temporary PED within the allotted time period or other forms of abuse, misuse, or excessive use may result in conduct action, loss of lock-out key privileges, or both. All charges shall be placed on the student's bursar account.

(8) Mercury thermometers

Mercury thermometers are prohibited in all residential buildings as they pose a serious health and safety hazard if broken.

(9) Misplaced keys

If a key is misplaced, residents are responsible for reporting the misplaced key to the front desk or supervisor of the residence. A lock-out key may be obtained for an extended forty-eight-hour period to allow time to locate the misplaced key. If the misplaced key is not found and/or the lock-out key is not returned within the forty-eight-hour period, the misplaced key will be considered lost and a lock change will be ordered and charged to the party responsible.

(10) Missing persons

All students residing in university housing shall be given the opportunity to provide a confidential contact person to notify should they be missing for twenty-four hours or more. In instances where the missing student is under eighteen years of age, parent(s) or legal guardians will be contacted in addition to the confidential contact person. Individuals should report anyone believed to be a missing person to a member of the residence life staff and/or BGSU police. If a student is believed to be missing, hall staff will contact university police to begin an investigation.

(11) Personal and community safety expectations

In order for safety measures to be effective, students must make proper use of these features. Residents are encouraged to lock their doors when leaving the room/suite/apartment for any reason and while sleeping. Residents are also reminded that propping open exterior doors for any reason is also a safety hazard since it may allow unwanted visitors access to the building and is a policy violation subjecting the resident to disciplinary action. Residents must not allow others to enter the residence via any locked door other than the main entrance.

(12) Reporting misuse

It is an expectation that all community members take an active role in ensuring the safety of the residential living spaces on campus. Misuse of keys, personal entry devices (PEDs), or BG1 card must be reported to an office of residence life staff member immediately.

(13) Tornado procedures

(a) Tornado watch. A tornado watch indicates that weather conditions are such that a tornado could develop in this area. Should a tornado watch be issued, residents are asked to follow the accompanying procedures.

(i) Residents should make certain they are familiar with the location of the shelter area in their building so that should the need arise, they will know where to find appropriate shelter.

(ii) Residents should be prepared to move to that area in the event that a tornado warning is issued.

(iii) Residents are encouraged to listen for a radio, TV or hall PA announcement, or county sirens indicating the need to take shelter, and be checking for a text message from "AlertBG" if they have signed up for this service.

(iv) Residents should use their best judgment when deciding whether to leave the building during a tornado watch.

(b) Tornado warning

A tornado warning indicates that a tornado has been sighted in the area. Should residents hear the county tornado warning sirens or otherwise be advised that there is a tornado warning in effect for the region, residents are to seek shelter immediately and follow the directions of office of residence life staff regarding emergency evacuation and remain in the shelter areas until the all-clear is given by the appropriate staff member or official. Note: Wood county conducts a test of tornado sirens on the first Saturday of every month at ten a.m.

(M) University residence behavior policies

(1) As with all large residential communities, there are behavioral parameters within which all community members are expected to conduct their affairs. Individuals who choose not to act responsibly and violate the community living standards, the code of student conduct, and/or local, state and federal laws will be held accountable for their decisions. The regulations and policies contained in this section should not be regarded as a comprehensive code of desirable conduct; rather, they describe the minimum standards needed to reconcile the principles of maximum freedom and necessary order to achieve the basic purposes and goals of the university. By forming a code of ethics and rules and regulations, the university does not absolve each student from accepting responsibility for his or her own behavior. Indeed, the university reaffirms the principle of student freedom coupled with an acceptance of full responsibility for individual action and the consequences of such action. Residents have the right to file a complaint in the event that their rights within the residential community are being violated by another's failure to follow policies. Such complaints may be registered through residence hall staff or through the office of the dean of students.

(2) Students are expected to respect the rights of others within their residential community. Residents will be held responsible for their actions and decisions, as well as the actions of their guests. In striving to provide an environment for all residents to study, sleep and interact, it is expected that students be familiar with, and abide by, the policies which appear in this policy.

(3) Apartment and Greek unit policies

In addition to the code of student conduct and the community living standards, additional policies apply to those students living in university apartment(s) or Greek units. Additional policies and procedures for apartment(s) and Greek units may be found on the office of student housing's website on the "Forms and Resources" section.

(4) Alcohol

(a) The university is committed to maintaining an academic and social environment conducive to the intellectual and personal development, safety and welfare of all members of the university community. While alcohol is a widely accepted part of American culture, students under the age of twenty-one may not consume or possess alcohol. Students who are of legal age may drink in their rooms or in the rooms of people who are also twenty-one or older. Students who are under twenty-one and choose to drink are not only violating hall policy, they are breaking the law. Offenders may be subject to the campus conduct process, legal prosecution or both.

(i) The university adheres to and enforces all federal and state legislation governing alcohol.

(ii) In a university residence, alcoholic beverages may be possessed or served only in student rooms/suites/apartments where a resident of the room is of the legal drinking age. Alcohol is not permitted in common areas including but not limited to hallways, lounges, recreation areas or outside of a student room or suite.

(iii) Common containers including but not limited to beer balls, kegs, wine boxes, and containers of mixed punch of any kind are not permitted.

(iv) If residents twenty-one years of age or older elect to keep alcoholic beverages in the room/suite/apartment, they are responsible for and must take affirmative steps to ensure that underage individuals do not gain access to alcohol.

(v) Alcohol may not be sold or purchased in university residences.

(vi) Devices that allow for the drinking of large quantities of alcohol, such as a beer bong, are not allowed in university residences.

(vii) Games that promote or involve drinking are not permitted in the university residences.

(viii) Alcohol containers (whether full, partially full or empty) may not be possessed or used as decorations by those under the age of twenty-one in univesity residences.

(5) Animals: service and emotional support

(a) In order to provide reasonable accommodations and in compliance with federal law, the office of student housing allows qualified students to have one service animal or one emotional support animal (ESA) in the residence halls. Students must first contact the office of accessibility services (38 College Park office building, 419-372-8495) for approval.

(b) Definitions of a service animal, an emotional support animal, and a pet appear in rule 3341-2-42 of the Administrative Code, service animal and assistance animal policy, which is also applicable. The "owner" is the person who is responsible for controlling a service animal or emotional support animal.

(i) Animals must be properly licensed in accordance with all federal, state, and local laws.

(ii) Service and emotional support animals must be in good health and have all vaccinations.

(iii) A service animal may accompany the owner to any location at any time. An emotional support animal may not leave the owner's room, with the exception of allowing the animal to relieve itself, and must not create a disturbance while the owner is away from the room.

(iv) Service and emotional support animals must be under the control of the owner at all times.

(v) The owner of a service or emotional support animal must maintain a clean, healthy, and odor-free living space.

(vi) The owner of a service or emotional support animal is responsible for cleaning up after their animal's waste and should carry sufficient and appropriate equipment to clean up after the animal. Waste must be bagged and discarded in waste receptacles located outside of the residence halls.

(vii) The owner of a service or emotional support animal must assure the animal doesn't interfere with the daily routine or activities (ability to sleep, enter or exit the hall, study, etc.) of residents who reside in the hall.

(viii) The owner of an animal is financially responsible for any damage caused by the animal. This includes bodily injury or property damage.

(d) Non-owner actions

(i) Individuals other than the owner should never touch or handle an animal unless invited to do so.

(ii) Individuals other than the owner should not feed the animal.

(iii) Individuals other than the owner should take care not to startle the animal.

(iv) Individuals other than the owner are not to attempt to separate the animal from the owner.

(v) Individuals are not to inquire for details about the owner's disability or reason for having a service or emotional support animal.

(e) Removal of approved animal

The office of residence life, in consultation with the office of accessibility services, may exclude or remove an approved animal if:

(i) The animal poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others;

(ii) The animal causes substantial damage to the property of others (including university property);

(iii) The animal's presence requires or results in a fundamental alteration of a university program or function;

(iv) The owner consistently fails to comply with the policy governing animals in the residence halls; or

(v) The animal or its presence creates an unmanageable disturbance or interference with the university community.

(6) Bicycles, scooters, and other personal conveyance vehicles

Campus regulations regarding the parking and storing of bicycles, scooters, and other personal conveyance vehicles must be observed. Motorized vehicles (including electric scooters and hoverboards) are not permitted inside a university residence. If a resident brings a non-motorized personal conveyance vehicle into the residence, it may not be parked or stored in corridors, restrooms, lounges, entryways, trunk rooms or in any area of the building other than the owner's room/suite/apartment. The owner is responsible for any damages or soiled carpet caused by bringing a personal conveyance vehicle into a residence. Riding bicycles and other personal conveyance vehicles inside a building is prohibited. Bicycles and mopeds must be registered with the Bowling Green city police, 175 W. Wooster st. For more information please call 419-352-2571. Bicycles and other personal conveyance vehicles may only be locked to bike racks and not to ramps, stairwells or other stationary objects. See the parking rules and regulations regarding designated parking areas.

(7) Cooking in rooms/suites

Approved combination microwave/refrigerator units for food preparation are permitted in all university residences. Individual microwave units of no more than nine hundred watts are permitted in student rooms. Refrigerators no larger than five cubic feet, thirty-six inches in height and 1.5 amps are also allowed. For fire safety considerations, however, hot plates, toasters, toaster ovens, George Foreman grills, waffle irons/makers, air fryers, crock pots, and similar devices are not permitted in student rooms/suites.

(8) Dining room property

Dining room property, which includes trays, plates, glasses and silverware and other equipment/furnishings, must not be taken from kitchens or any dining facility to any area, including student rooms/suites/apartments and lounges. Violation of this policy is considered theft and may result in university conduct action, or possible criminal action. University dining services refrigerators and freezers are not available for storage of personal food supplies or beverages.

(9) Drugs

The use and/or possession and/or provision of a place for the use of illegal/controlled drugs is governed by local, state and federal laws. All cases or evidence of use, possession, cultivation or sale of drugs in university residences will be handled by the appropriate law enforcement agencies and reported to the office of residence life. This includes the possession of prescription drugs not prescribed to the student in possession of them. Note, while Ohio has legalized both medical and recreational marijuana, the use, possession, and/or storage of medical or recreational marijuana is strictly prohibited on university premises and at university sponsored events and activities because marijuana remains illegal under federal law.

(10) Explosives, firearms, fireworks and weapons

Explosives, firearms (actual, or novelties/toys reasonably resembling actual firearms), fireworks, firecrackers and similar devices, and weapons of any kind create a potential safety hazard and, therefore, the use or possession of these items is prohibited in university residences. Weapons include, but are not limited to, knives with blades over three inches, guns, bb/pellet guns, airsoft guns, paint guns, tasers, bows and arrows, machetes, ninja stars, nunchucks, grenades and swords.

(11) Guests

(a) General

(i) A visitor is defined as any person who is a student and is not an assigned resident of the university hall or house being visited.

(ii) A guest is defined as any person who is not a student.

(iii) A host is defined as a person who is assigned to the particular university student room being visited. In order to maintain a living environment that respects the privacy of all residents, guests and visitors must adhere to the following specific policies:

(a) Guests and visitors are subject to the same rules, regulations and expectations as a resident, and the host is responsible for informing his or her guests of the rules, regulations and expectations in advance.

(b) The needs of roommates/suitemates to sleep, study and otherwise be free from interference and disruption as well as the right to privacy are paramount and supersede the right to host a guest and/or visitor. Roommates reserve the right to reasonably refuse guests at any time.

(c) Hosts assume full responsibility for the behavior and activities of their guests and visitors regardless of whether the host is present to observe their behavior. Whenever reasonably possible, hosts are expected to accompany their guests at all times.

(d) For safety and security reasons, guests and visitors must be escorted by their host whenever they are outside their host's room.

(e) Guests and visitors may only enter the building if they are accompanied by a host who is a resident of the building. Guests and visitors will be required to present a picture ID and sign in to gain entrance to the building regardless of their time of arrival to the building.

(f) During the course of their visit, guests and visitors are expected to behave in a way that positively contributes to the residence community, showing respect and consideration for others and for property.

(g) Guests and visitors who are acting inappropriately may be asked to leave the residence.

(h) Guests and visitors will not be issued keys or PEDs, nor are residents to permit guests or visitors to use keys, BG1 card or PEDs.

(12) Overnight guests

Overnight guests or visitors are allowed to stay in university residences with the prior consent of both the host and the host's roommate(s). However, the needs of roommates/suitemates to sleep, study and otherwise be free from interference and disruption as well as the right to privacy are paramount and supersede the right to host an overnight guest or visitor. With prior consent of the roommate(s), guests/visitors are allowed to stay a maximum of three consecutive nights in a ten-day period. Guests/visitors may not sleep in lounges or on lounge furnishings and may not sleep in any bed without the prior consent of the individual assigned to that bed.

(13) Identification

Residents are expected to carry their student identification card with them at all times. Residents may be asked to produce their ID in a number of instances, including but not limited to: entering the building during posted hours, checking out equipment, obtaining lock-out keys, or during documentation of policy violations. Failure to produce university identification upon request of a university official may result in denial of services and referral to student conduct.

(14) Kitchen use

Most residence halls are equipped with a small, limited-use kitchen that is intended for use by residential students. These kitchens are typically equipped with a stove, refrigerator, sink, and cabinets. Residents are expected to follow the guidelines for use document posted in each hall.

After use, each kitchen must be thoroughly cleaned (stovetop, countertop, sink, dishes, floor, trash, etc.). Failure to clean the kitchen may result in the facility being locked. Dry goods may not be stored anywhere in the kitchen. Students may store cold/wet items in the refrigerator as long as each item is labeled with a name and date. All items in the refrigerator will be disposed of after one month or when the item is no longer useable. Limited cooking equipment is available for use at each hall front desk and must be returned clean. Students using the kitchen should be familiar with the location and use of the fire extinguisher.

Students using the kitchen do so at their own risk and the university will not be liable for lost, stolen, or disposed-of items including but not limited to food and cooking utensils.

Greek and apartment units have their own kitchens with a modified version of the guidelines for use document. Residents of the Greek and apartment units must adhere to the guidelines for use document posted in their kitchen.

(15) Laundry

Laundry facilities are provided for each residence. Use of the laundry facilities by residential students is paid for as part of the room fee (exceptions include leased apartment facilities). Use of the laundry facilities by non-residents is prohibited. Violators of this policy will be referred to the student conduct process. Do not leave your laundry unattended. If clothes are left in the laundry room for more than forty-eight hours, they should be taken to the front desk lost and found. Residents should always clean the dryer filter trap after every use.

(16) Lost and found and abandoned property

Each residence hall will maintain a lost and found system at the front desk. Items brought to the lost and found will be kept for one month. If the individual owner can be identified, hall staff will make a reasonable attempt to contact the owner, first by phone and then by e-mail. At the end of the one-month period, unclaimed items will be deemed abandoned and disposed of, destroyed, or donated.

(17) Lounges and common areas

Every residence unit contains a variety of common area spaces. Some are designated study lounges, while others are used for program events and meetings. Residents wishing to reserve space in a building must contact the supervisor of the residence. All lounge furniture and wall hangings should remain in their assigned location for use by all community members. Lounges are not to be used to provide overnight accommodations for residents or guests.

(18) Mail

(a) USPS paper mail, such as letters and magazines, is delivered daily, Monday through Friday, to the residence hall front desks and placed in the student mailboxes provided to all on-campus residents. No mail is delivered on weekends or university holidays. Student packages, from all carriers such as USPS, UPS, and "FedEx," will be delivered to the student package center located at the information desk on the first floor of the Bowen Thompson student union. Students will receive an email notification when the package is ready for pickup. A valid BGSU ID is required for package pickup. For more information, visit the postal services website: www.bgsu.edu/postal. Residence hall and Greek unit mail should be addressed to the street addresses provided by the office of student housing. A complete list of halls and street addresses is available on the office of student housing web site http://www.bgsu.edu/residence-life/residence-hall-mailing-addresses.html

(b) Only the following items may be placed in residence mailboxes:

(i) U.S. mail delivered by the post office.

(ii) Individually addressed campus mail.

(iii) Office of residence life approved announcements. Notices, unaddressed items, or unaddressed advertising of any nature will not be placed in residence mailboxes unless approved by the office of residence life.

(19) Musical instruments

Because different musical instruments can be played at different volumes, some may not be appropriate for use in the residence halls. Acoustic guitars, non-amplified electric guitars and electronic pianos are some examples of instruments that can be played at a reasonable level and are permitted in the residence halls. Many living units have practice rooms that may be reserved for those choosing to bring wind, orchestral, percussion or amplified instruments to the university. To the extent that such instruments violate the courtesy or quiet-hours policies, they are not permitted in the residence halls.

(20) Pets

Pets are not permitted in university residences, including student rooms/suites/apartments, except fish in an aquarium no larger than twenty gallons. Electrical aquarium accessories must be unplugged during extended vacation periods. If any unauthorized pet is kept in a resident's room, disciplinary action will be taken, and a cleaning fee may be charged to that resident.

(21) Posters, table tents and advertising

The display of posters and fliers in university residences is governed by the office of residence life. A full copy of the applicable policy, including appropriate numbers of posters, is available in brochure form at this office. Only university departments and recognized student organizations in good standing are eligible to display posters/fliers in university residences, after obtaining the requisite approval from the office of residence life. After obtaining approval, items must be submitted to the front desk of the hall and may only be distributed within the hall by persons employed by the office of residence life. Failure to follow this policy may result in the elimination of the privilege of displaying posters and fliers on the part of the organization or department. The display of table tents in dining facilities is governed by dining services. A full copy of the applicable policy is available at this office.

(22) Quiet hours and consideration of others

(a) The university strives to provide its residents with a living environment that is conducive to learning. Residents and their guests are thus expected to respect the rights of others with regard to quiet for studying, sleeping and individual lifestyle choices. Quiet hours and courtesy hours are the vehicles for achieving this environment. In each residence, a program of quiet hours is established initially by the supervisor of the residence. That program of quiet hours must fulfill the following minimum requirements:

(i) Sunday through Thursday: Quiet hours must begin no later than eleven p.m. and continue until at least eight a.m.

(ii) Friday and Saturday: Quiet hours must begin no later than midnight and continue until at least nine a.m. (Note: Specific quiet hours for each hall may be adjusted within the minimum guidelines at the first hall council/house meeting. The established hall quiet hours can be reviewed at any time when deemed necessary by residents of each hall within the established guidelines listed in this paragraph.)

(iii) Twenty-four-hour quiet hours are in effect at all times during final exam periods. These quiet hours will begin at midnight the Sunday prior to the final exam period and continue until the residence closes at the end of the semester. No alterations of the twenty-four-hour policy during finals week are permitted.

(b) During quiet hours, the noise level in the living unit must be kept at a minimum. Music, talking or other sounds are too loud if the sound can be heard by neighbors, in the corridor, or outside the building. At no time is a person to create a disturbance or noise that disrupts the activities of another person within the residence. All requests for quiet are to be immediately complied with by discontinuation of the activity causing the disturbance or noise. In the spirit of community, stereo speakers/subwoofers and stereos must not be directed out the windows/doors or used outside the residence without permission.

(c) The use of headphones is also strongly encouraged. Repeated disregard for the noise level in use of sound equipment may result in the removal of the equipment from the student room/suite/apartment.

(d) Courtesy hours: defined as hours of reasonable quiet, are to be maintained at all times, even during those times not designated as quiet hours. During courtesy hours, residents are expected to keep noise and activities at a level which will not disturb neighboring residents, including those living on other floors. All requests for quiet are to be immediately complied with by discontinuation of the activity causing the disturbance or noise. Residents are expected to anticipate and respect the needs of other students; specifically, the need to live in an environment with minimum annoyances or obstacles to academic pursuits and student wellness.

(23) Roommate agreements

Since sharing living accommodations is a new experience for many students, all roommate pairs will be asked to complete a roommate agreement. This agreement encourages honest and open communication between roommates and establishes agreement for standards to be followed in the room. No agreement is permitted to contain clauses that allow for the violation of any university or residence life policy. If assistance is needed in establishing this agreement, you are encouraged to meet with your resident advisor or hall/house staff. Since the needs and routines of roommates change during the year, it is recommended that the roommate agreement be modified as needed. Failure to adhere to the roommate agreement may result in referral to student conduct.

(24) Routers and rogue hotspots

Students living in the residence halls are not permitted to use wireless routers or devices that transmit a wireless signal that creates interference with the university owned wi-fi system. Student wireless devices may disrupt internet services for other students and staff. Residents found in violation of this policy will be asked to disable the wireless device immediately and may be referred to student conduct.

(25) Smoking

The university recognizes the need to create and maintain an environment that sustains and enhances the general health of its faculty, staff, students and visitors. Therefore, by resolution of the university board of trustees, effective January 1, 2014, and by Ohio state law, smoking is prohibited inside all facilities owned or leased by the university and on the grounds of any property owned or leased by the university. Smoking is defined as inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted cigar, cigarette, pipe, or other lighted smoking device for burning tobacco or any other plant, per section 3794.01 of the Revised Code. This includes all buildings owned or controlled by the university, shelters, indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, indoor and outdoor theatres, walkways, sidewalks, residence halls, and parking lots (unless otherwise designated). Smoking is prohibited on sidewalks that adjoin university property. Smoking is also prohibited in any vehicle or equipment owned, leased or operated by the university. Application of this policy to university-owned detached single-family residences shall be determined by university facilities at the time any such lease is executed. Cigarette butts and ashes must be disposed of in the appropriate receptacles located in designated smoking areas. The use of e-cigarettes (electronic smoking devices, vaping) in residence halls is strictly prohibited.

(26) Soliciting/selling

Soliciting in residences is not permitted. Solicitation is defined as any activity designed to advertise, promote or sell any product or commercial service or encourage support for or membership in any group, association or organization and includes door-to-door canvassing. Soliciting/selling includes conducting a business in a university residence such as baby-sitting, beer distribution or selling such items as cosmetics, food, hair supplies or hair cutting/styling, raffle tickets, magazines, bagels, candy bars, etc. Advertising signs, posters and fliers in connection with such solicitation or selling may not be distributed or posted in university residences. Fundraising events/soliciting are not permitted in residences unless authorized by the director of student housing or their designee.

(27) Sports and roughhousing

Indoor sports and roughhousing are prohibited in all areas of the residence halls/houses, as such activity may disrupt the living/learning environment and is considered unsafe relative to persons and property. Prohibited activities include (but are not limited to) tossing, bouncing, or kicking of balls or objects, wrestling, the use of roller blades, "Nerf" guns, and the use of water guns or water balloons.

(28) Storage

When a student checks out of their residence hall room but does not remove personal belongings from their room, the items become the property of the university and will be disposed of after thirty days. Students claiming items within the thirty-day time period may be assessed a storage and packing fee. There is no storage of personal items at any time. This includes temporary storage of lofts or personal furniture. Personal items may not be stored in the hall common areas (hallways, study lounges, kitchenettes, trash rooms, bathrooms, custodial closet, etc.)

(29) Wall and door decorations

You may make your room feel more like home by putting posters and pictures on the wall. White adhesive putty is the recommended way to do this. Avoid the use of two-sided tape, colored putty, or nails as these items create residue that must be removed or holes that must be filled. No more than twenty per cent of the surface area may be covered.

(30) Window coverings and screens

Regulation window coverings (blinds/drapes) are installed in every residence hall room. These window coverings must not be removed. Personal drapery may be hung using only a spring tension rod. Personal drapery and decorations must not be visible from outside the hall. Personal drapery and decorations must not interfere with egress. Window screens and/or storm windows must not be removed at any time. Residents assume any associated costs of replacement, repair, and re-installation of window screens.

(31) Use of telephones in student rooms

(a) Every room has the capability of having a telephone line activated. Students must request to have an active telephone line provided in their assigned residence hall room. It is the responsibility of the student to request a phone line be activated through information technology services (ITS). Students requesting an active phone line for their residence hall room will be billed an additional fee that corresponds to the requested level of service provided.

(b) Per university policy and applicable law, it is unlawful to obtain or attempt to obtain telecommunication services by use of a false, fictitious or counterfeit number. It is unlawful to charge telephone calls to the telephone number or credit card number of another person without valid authority. Avoiding or attempting to avoid payment for telecommunication services by use of any fraudulent scheme, device, means or method is prohibited by law and by university regulations. Criminal prosecution and/or disciplinary action may be taken.

Equity impact statement: The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated December 28, 2023 at 8:28 AM

History

Effective: December 28, 2023
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-03 Assembly.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The purpose is to articulate under what circumstances the university may regulate the manner in which free speech and assembly is expressed and enacted.

(B) Policy

(1) The university recognizes the importance of and rights associated with free speech, including the right to assemble, march and other rights related to the expression of thoughts and ideas. The university reserves the right to determine the time, place and manner of space and facilities so as not to interfere with the mission and regular operation of the institution. Prior to sponsoring a rally, demonstration, march or other group event, the organization or individual coordinating the event must complete the registration process through the office of conference and event services. The university will attempt to provide adequate facilities and security for the event.

(2) Organizers of any rally, demonstration, march or other group event, are responsible for ensuring that the activity does not interfere with the academic mission of the university. Sponsoring individuals or organizations are responsible for assuring that the event does not block entries, exits, walkways, roadways or otherwise hinder the free flow of both pedestrian and roadway traffic and that all policies relating to sponsoring of events on campus are upheld.

History

Effective: September 15, 2016
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-10 Department of recreation and wellness food & drink concessions, merchandise sales, and sponsorship.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The sale/distribution of foods, drinks and merchandise within any recreation and wellness facility (student recreation center, Perry field house, ice arena or Forrest Creason golf course) must adhere to recreation and wellness policies and requires the approval of the recreation and wellness department. Please review the following policies below when planning your next event at a recreation and wellness facility.

(B) Policy

(1) Cold drink sales

The following are basic policies that are required to be followed when planning for drink sales within recreation and wellness facilities. Two options available: recreation and wellness orders, distributes/sells, provides staffing and receives exclusive revenues for all cold drink sales within facilities during group rentals/events. Or, rental groups can provide staffing/volunteers to sell cold drinks for recreation and wellness. Rental groups receive twenty per cent of the gross revenue of all cold drink sales. If rental group chooses option B: All cold drink products must be university approved. Please contact the appropriate recreation and wellness contact person for product lists. Recreation and wellness will order all cold drink products and transport them to the concessions areas. One electric full-size double-door cooler will be provided by recreation and wellness. Additional ice coolers can be provided by rental group. Recreation and wellness must have a minimum advance notice of seven business days to place drink orders. Cold drink retail prices are established by recreation and wellness and are subject to change without notice. Note: rental groups have the ability to increase retail drink pricing. Recreation and wellness must approve all drink price increases above the minimum. Rental groups are responsible for stocking the drink cooler throughout the event. Recreation and wellness will produce and disseminate a final billing statement to the rental group for payment. Rental groups can provide hot beverages (approved by recreation and wellness), and keep all proceeds. Hot beverages could include; coffee, teas, cider, etc.).

(2) Food sales

The following are basic policies that are required to be followed to minimize the transmission of food borne disease. Some or many of these guidelines may not be applicable to your specific event. The sale of perishable foods requires the approval and licensing of the Wood county health department. "Perishable foods" should be considered as those which because of their composition are considered potentially hazardous in their potential to transmit food borne disease pathogens. Such foods include: meats, items containing dairy products, eggs, and other foods that contain protein. Rental groups have full control of food sales within recreation and wellness facilities as long as BGSU safe food handling policies have been followed. Note: recreation and wellness has the authority to allow/deny all food requests. Any food served to the public on the BGSU campus must be managed according to BGSU's safe food handling policies which can be found on the website. All events where food is to be sold or requires a donation must be evaluated by environmental health and safety to determine if a temporary food service license must be purchased from the Wood county health department for that event. If a BGSU student organization event involves a request for food brought in from a source other than university dining services, a "standard food policy exception form" must be processed. The exception will not be approved unless all required signatures are secured at least one week in advance. The approval of the food service exception is the responsibility of the facility manager(s) or designee of the specific facility/area where the service is being provided and/or facility manager(s) responsible for the reservation of that area.

(3) Merchandising sale

The following are basic policies that are required to be followed when planning for merchandise sales within recreation and wellness facilities. Rental groups have full control of merchandise sales within recreation and wellness facilities as long as BGSU licensing and trademark requirements have been followed. Note: recreation and wellness has the authority to allow/deny all merchandise requests. Recreation and wellness must approve all merchandise sales locations. Rental groups are required to pay a fee to sell merchandise. Rental groups are notified of table fees at least seven business days prior to the event. Recreation and wellness must have a minimum advance vendor or merchandise sales request notice of fourteen business days. Rental groups are responsible for providing all merchandise display materials (four-way racks, hangers, etc.). The following are basic policies that are required to be followed when planning groups can rent tables and chairs from BGSU for an additional cost or can supply their own. Recreation and wellness must have a minimum advance notice of fourteen days for all table and chair requests. Recreation and wellness is not responsible for lost or stolen merchandise. Rental groups are fully responsible for securing merchandise throughout the events.

(4) External sponsorship

The following are basic policies that are required to be followed for groups who wish to provide outside sponsorship products and/or advertising when reserving/renting recreation and wellness facilities. Such sponsorship would be allowed as long as the companies or services do not directly compete or have a competitive advantage with the products/services offered within Recreation and wellness facilities. To this end, before solidifying sponsorship ventures for events hosted within any recreation and wellness facility, the reserving group must provide a listing of all prospective sponsoring companies/organizations to the facility contact person for approval, a minimum of two weeks prior to the event date. The reserving group must clearly state whether a sponsor signage would be displayed during events, and if products would be sold or handed out.

November 1, 2013

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 12:58 PM

History

Effective: March 12, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-11 Event management for recognized student organizations.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Events sponsored by BGSU recognized student organizations can enrich the lives and interests of all community members. A major responsibility of recognized student organizations is to ensure that all appropriate policies and safety measures are in place in order to have a successful event.

This policy applies to recognized student organizations and sets forth procedures those organizations must follow when holding events on BGSU property

(B) Policy

(1) For purposes of this policy, a "recognized student organization" means a group of people who are associated with each other and who have registered with the University as a student organization as outlined in University Policy 3341-2-36.

(2) All recognized student organizations sponsoring an event on campus grounds or within a campus facility must adhere to the following:

(a) The event must be registered with the Office of Student Engagement using the online event registration form.

(b) The event space must be reserved with the approving office of that space and in accordance with the University's Space and Facilities Reservations Including Use of Campus Grounds Policy 3341-6-42.

(c) The organization must have a minimum of three members of the organization's leadership group present for the duration of the event. The Office of Student Engagement may also require the presence of the organization's advisor.

(d) The organization must designate members to serve as event staff for the duration of the event. These individuals must be clearly identifiable as event staff.

(e) The organization is responsible for the cost of all damages caused by the event, including but not limited to furniture repair or replacement, extra custodial services, and repair of structural damages to the premises.

(f) Alcohol is prohibited at events unless approved in writing by the University before the event. If approved, alcohol must be consumed in designated areas only.

(g) Failure to follow the Code of Student Conduct and/or other university policies may cause the event to be halted or canceled. This determination is at the discretion of any of the following entities: University Police, facility managers, or authorized university staff. In addition, the organization may be referred to the student conduct process.

(h) Marketing and entry tickets will include standard ticketing terms (e.g., ID requirements, expectations concerning re-entry, processes regarding refunds) as applicable to the event. The Office of Student Engagement may require review and approval of these ticketing terms.

(i) Any activity, program, contest or event that requires or promotes overconsumption, over-indulgence, or the eating of potentially hazardous foods and/or liquids is strictly prohibited due to the significant health risks associated with these activities.

(j) If there are any guest speakers, the organization must make it clear that the organization, and not BGSU, is inviting each speaker and that any views or opinions of the speaker are their own and not those of BGSU.

(3) Security for events

(a) The sponsoring organization is financially responsible for any security that is contractually required by the event (e.g., if a visiting artist's contract requires two police officers at an event).

(b) BGSU Police may conduct a safety assessment prior to the event to determine if enhanced security is needed based on the information provided and such other information obtained. The following factors may be considered by BGSU Police in its safety assessment:

(i) Whether alcohol will be served

(ii) Estimated attendance

(iii) Location or venue

(iv) Whether cash will be collected at the event

(v) Recent history of similar events

(vi) Number of university staff to be present

(vii) Other events taking place on campus at that time

(viii) Health and safety concerns

(ix) Impact of event, if any, on normal campus operations and/or academic mission of the university

(x) Any similar viewpoint and content-neutral factors relevant to the assessment of security needs

(c) If it is determined that enhanced security is needed, resources will be secured by the institution to ensure that necessary safety measures are in place.

Organizations that host races (e.g., 5k race) may be responsible for certain security costs depending on the location of the race.

(4) Compilation of relevant policies

The followng university policies are most relevant to event management.

(a) University Food Service Policy - Policy 3341-6-46.

(b) Reservations for Use of Campus Grounds - Policy 3341-6-42.

(d) Use of Amplified Sound on University Premises - Policy 3341-6-3.

(e) Fundraising, Solicitation, and Sales Rules for Recognized Student Organizations - Policy 3341-2-14.

(f) Programs and Activities with Minor Participants - Policy 3341-6-54.

(g) Alcohol - Policy 3341-6-2.

(5) Failure to adhere to the expectations, procedures, and protocols outlined by student engagement may result in the event being cancelled or postponed.

Equity Impact Statement: The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated May 24, 2023 at 1:06 PM

History

Effective: May 24, 2023
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-14 Fund raising, solicitation, and sales rules for student organizations.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The purpose is to articulate under what circumstances it is permissible for recognized student organizations to fund raise as well as under what circumstances anyone may solicit and sell items on campus.

(B) Policy

(1) Jurisdiction (recognized campus organizations)

(a) Campus regulations will permit fundraising by recognized student organizations. Recognized student organizations may use some university facilities without charge to host non-commercial events which raise funds for educational or public service purposes.

(b) Funds raised from the general university population shall be for the non-profit use of the sponsoring organization.

(c) Student organizations shall work with student engagement to keep accurate records of funds raised and spent, available upon request for inspection or audit. If an audit is required, it may be ordered at the organization's expense.

(d) Subject to special regulations concerning time, place and manner of public expression, a recognized student organization may in outdoor discussion areas and at meetings: sell materials related to the purpose of the organization, collect dues, initiation fees, donations and admissions charges for events. In addition, recognized student organizations may solicit funds in announcements and/or advertisements. Any postings by recognized student organizations must comply with BGSU's postings by rule 3341-2-02 of the Administrative Code

(e) Recognized student organizations may conduct raffles in accordance with the laws of the state of Ohio. All fifty/fifty raffles or those with direct cash payout are prohibited for student organizations.

(f) Recognized student organizations may not offer a direct cash or cash-equivalent prizes or payout, including instances of "split-the-pot" or cash equivalent loaded card ("Master Card, Visa etc.")

(g) Recognized student organizations are not permitted to coordinate or support the sale or processing of applications for credit cards on campus.

(h) The facility manager may require student organizations to utilize a contract or vendor agreement for outside vendors and receive a percentage of sales, a commission or a combination of both.

(2) Fundraising by non-university organizations

Any external organization seeking to raise funds for the benefit of an external organization must possess a current tax-exempt certificate from the internal revenue service. Prior approval for fundraising on campus must be obtained in advance by the facility manager. Organizations must keep current accurate records of funds raised and spent. These records must be available upon request for inspection or audit. If an audit is required, it may be ordered at the organization's expense.

(3) Solicitations and sales

(a) Solicitation is defined as any activity designed to advertise, promote or sell any product or commercial service.

(b) Solicitation in university residences is not permitted. Advertising signs, posters and fliers may not be distributed or posted in university residences.

(c) Recognized student organizations may not solicit on campus without obtaining permission from the facility manager. Individuals who collect applications for commercial purposes are restricted from soliciting said applications on campus. An activity that violates university policies or local, state and/or federal laws is forbidden.

(d) If authorized, solicitations are permitted in university buildings, except for "Falcon Outfitters", located within the Bowen-Thompson student union, where merchandise is sold under the regulations established by management.

Last updated September 9, 2022 at 6:03 AM

History

Effective: September 9, 2022
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-42

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Bowling Green state university is committed to granting reasonable accommodations to its rules, policies, practices, or services when such accommodations may be necessary to afford people with disabilities an equal opportunity to use and enjoy their dwellings, as required by federal, state and local law. A reasonable accommodation may include a change or exception to a rule or policy that is needed because of a person's disability, or it may be a physical change to a unit or common area. It is Bowling Green state university's general policy to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities whenever an individual has a disability and there is a disability-related need for the requested accommodation. A disability-related need for a requested accommodation exists when there is an identifiable relationship, or nexus, between the requested accommodation and the individual's disability. Bowling Green state university will permit the use of a service animal by an individual with a disability. Pursuant to federal law, a person with a disability to keep an assistance animal in their university housing dwelling unit. The policy below discusses the procedures regarding these topics.

(B) Policy definitions

(1) Service dog/service animal

A dog, as described in 28 CFR 35.104, that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the individual's disability. Under the particular circumstances and conditions set forth in 28 CFR 35.136, a miniature horse may also qualify as a service animal. The crime deterrent effects of an animal's presence and the provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship do not constitute work or tasks for the purposes of this definition. This policy generally refers to service animals as "service dogs."

(2) Assistance animal in university housing

An assistance animal (also known as an "emotional support animal") is an animal that provides comfort to an individual with a disability within that individual's dwelling unit in university housing. An assistance animal may be a reasonable accommodation if, upon the recommendation of a reliable third party (such as a doctor, physician assistant, psychiatrist, psychologist, or social worker) who is familiar with the individual's disability and the necessity for the requested accommodation, it will assist the individual with their disability and is necessary to afford that individual an equal opportunity to use and enjoy their residence at the university. An assistance animal does not assist a person with a disability with activities of daily living but rather its role is to live with the person and alleviate the symptoms or effects of that person's disability. The process for requesting an assistance animal is outlined in paragraph (C)(7) of this policy.

(3) Handler

A handler is the person who is responsible for controlling an assistance animal or service animal.

(4) Service dogs in training

Pursuant to Ohio law, a service dog in training is a dog that is in training to assist a blind person, a deaf or hearing-impaired person, or a mobility-impaired person.

Handlers of service dogs in training are afforded the same rights as the handlers of fully-trained service dogs. This means that service dogs in training may attend class, accompany trainers to dining facilities, and take part in other campus activities. All service dogs in training are required to have insurance through their sponsoring non-profit special agency. Puppy raising, fostering and socialization activities are not considered training. Questions about service dogs in training can be directed to accessibility services.

(5) Pet

A pet is an animal, other than a fish, that is not a service dog or an assistance animal. Pets are not allowed in university residence halls.

(1) Service dogs

Service dogs are trained to do work or perform a task for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. The work or task must be directly related to the individual's disability. Examples of work or tasks include, but are not limited to, assisting individuals who are blind or have low vision with navigation and other tasks, alerting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to the presence of people or sounds, providing non-violent protection or rescue work, pulling a wheelchair, assisting an individual during a seizure, alerting individuals to the presence of allergens, retrieving items such as medicine or the telephone, providing physical support and assistance with balance and stability to individuals with mobility disabilities, and helping persons with psychiatric and neurological disabilities by preventing or interrupting impulsive or destructive behaviors. If they meet this definition, dogs are considered service dogs.

University personnel shall not ask about the nature or extent of a person's disability, but may make two inquiries to determine whether a dog qualifies as a service dog (unless the dog's service training and duties are readily apparent). They may ask if the dog is required because of a disability and what work or task the dog has been trained to perform. Documentation, such as proof that the dog has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service dog is not required.

Students, faculty, staff and visitors are allowed to bring service dogs onto BGSU property. A university employee may be accompanied by their service dog whenever they are acting within the scope of their employment, unless the dog's presence would compromise a sterile environment. Service dogs are permitted to safely accompany a person with a disability in any public space, unless the dog's presence would compromise a sterile environment or otherwise fundamentally alter the nature of a university service, program, or activity. Service dogs may attend class, visit the dining halls, and take part in other campus activities. An accommodation through accessibility services is not required for a service dog.

Service dogs should be regarded as working and should not be treated as or referred to as pets.

(2) Service dogs in training

Pursuant to Ohio law, handlers of service dogs in training are afforded the same rights as the handlers of fully-trained service dogs. This means that service dogs in training may attend class, accompany trainers to dining facilities, and take part in other campus activities. All service dogs in training are required to have insurance through their sponsoring non-profit special agency and to provide proof of that insurance to accessibility services. Questions about service dogs in training can be directed to accessibility services.

(3) Code of conduct

(a) A service dog must be under the control of its handler at all times. A service dog shall have a harness, leash, or other tether, unless either the handler is unable because of a disability to use a harness, leash, or other tether, or the use of a harness, leash, or other tether would interfere with the dog's safe, effective performance of work or tasks, in which case the service dog must be otherwise under the handler's control (e.g., voice control, signals, or other effective means).

(b) Service dogs must be immunized according to section 90.17 of Bowling Green code of ordinances. Additionally, the service dog must be in good health. Handlers may be asked to leave a classroom, office or other university property if their service dog is visibly ill or becomes ill.

(d) BGSU is not responsible for providing food, water, health care, supervision or shelter for a service dog or assistance animal.

(e) The handler of a service dog or assistance animal is responsible for cleaning up the animal's waste, and should carry appropriate equipment for that purpose. Waste must be bagged and discarded in waste receptacles located outside of the residence halls.

(f) The handler of a service dog or assistance animal must assure the animal does not interfere with the daily routine or activities (ability to sleep, enter or exit the hall, study, etc.) of others. A person with a disability may be asked to remove their service dog or assistance animal from the premises if the animal is out of control and the handler does not take effective action to control it (for example, a dog that barks repeatedly during a class) or if the animal is not housebroken.

(g) An individual with a disability is not required to:

(i) Pay a surcharge, even if people accompanied by pets are required to pay fees, or

(ii) Comply with requirements applicable to pets. But if other individuals are charged for the damage they cause, an individual with a disability may be charged for damage caused by his or her service dog or assistance animal.

(4) Interacting with service dogs and service dogs in training

(a) Allow a service dog or service dog in training to accompany the handler everywhere at all times on BGSU property, unless a specific area is deemed off limits.

(b) Do not pet a service dog or a service dog in training without the permission of the handler as this may distract the animal from the task at hand.

(d) Do not separate or attempt to separate a service dog or service dog in training from their handler.

(e) In general, allergies or fear of dogs are not sufficient reasons for denying access to people using service dogs. Most allergies to animals are caused by direct contact with the animal. A separate space may be adequate to avoid allergic reactions. Service dog access should not be denied without consultation with accessibility services.

(f) The service dog or service dog in training must be under the handler's control at all times. It may be appropriate to ask the handler to remove the dog from the premises if the dog is not under control of the handler (e.g. excessive barking, poses a threat to the safety of others, etc.).

(g) Emergency situations

If university personnel are aware that a service dog or assistance animal is present when an emergency occurs, then they will notify the responding emergency personnel that an animal is present with a handler who is disabled. University personnel will relay information concerning the type of animal.

In the event of an evacuation or other calamity, emergency personnel may try to rescue both the handler and the animal. The animal may have to be left behind in some circumstances.

(5) Service dogs in laboratory settings

These guidelines are intended to ensure the safety of both handlers and service dogs within the laboratory environment. Because hazardous chemicals, open flames, glassware, and electrical equipment pose unique risks, accessibility services recommends the following precautions:

(a) Alternative seating at the end of benches or using gates, pens, or kennels (for kennel-trained service dogs) may be appropriate. Handlers should be permitted to keep the service dog as close as is safe for the handler and the dog. Handlers may wish to visit the lab in advance to familiarize themselves and their dog with the layout of the lab, as well as the smells and sounds of the lab.

(b) Service dogs entering laboratories must be similarly protected as is expected of the student to prevent exposure to hazardous chemicals, broken glass or other hazards that might be present in the laboratory environment. This equipment would be provided by the handler and includes disposable or reusable boots to cover the feet, eye protection, and/or lab coats. accessibility services recommends disposable, plastic-backed, absorbent lab paper or pet pads for the dog to lie on rather than direct contact with the floor. If appropriate protective equipment is not provided, the service dog may not be permitted into the lab.

(c) Service dogs in labs are expected to maintain the same level of appropriate behavior as in other university settings. This includes no jumping, barking unless in the proper context, growling, or interfering with lab activities. Interaction with the dog is by permission of the handler and may only be permitted outside of the laboratory.

(d) Service dog access can be restricted if the presence of the dog can interfere with the outcomes of the experiments or if substances used can be hazardous to a dog. Service dog access should not be denied without consultation with accessibility services. Accessibility services will facilitate an interactive dialogue to determine what other reasonable accommodation could be provided.

(6) Safety restrictions

(a) There are instances when a service dog may be restricted because places of public accommodation may impose restrictions if these are based on safety requirements.

In determining whether reasonable accommodation can be made to allow a service dog into a specific facility, the following factors for consideration are permissible:

(i) The type, size, and weight of the dog and whether the facility can accommodate these features;

(ii) Whether the handler has sufficient control of the dog;

(iii) Whether the dog is housebroken; and

(iv) Whether the dog's presence in a specific facility compromises legitimate safety requirements necessary for safe operation.

(b) If a service dog is properly excluded, the individual with a disability shall be provided the opportunity to obtain goods, services, and accommodations without having the dog on the premises. There may be restrictions to service dogs in the clinical practica of nursing and health science programs, in food services programs, or in laboratories that can pose a safety risk. Allergies and fear of animals are generally not valid reasons for denying access or refusing service to people with service dogs. Any contemplated denial or refusal must be considered on a case-by-case basis. In such instances, accessibility services will facilitate an interactive dialogue to determine what other reasonable accommodation could be provided.

(7) Assistance animals living in university housing

(a) An assistance animal is an accommodation granted through accessibility services for individuals in residential housing, and any individual needing an assistance animal must complete the accessibility services process. An assistance animal is restricted to the residence hall unit of the individual except to the extent the individual takes the animal outside for natural relief. When taking the animal outside of the residence hall unit, the animal must be in a carrier or controlled by a leash or harness. An assistance animal is not permitted in any university facilities other than the residence hall unit in which the handler is assigned.

(b) Requesting an assistance animal

Although it is the policy of BGSU that individuals are generally prohibited from having animals other than fish in any type of university housing, accessibility services will consider a request by an individual with a disability for a reasonable accommodation from this prohibition to allow an assistance animal. However, no assistance animal may be kept in university housing until the individual has received approval of that animal as a reasonable accommodation pursuant to this policy.

An individual wishing to request an assistance animal should follow accessibility services' general procedures for requesting an accommodation. accessibility services may require a statement from a reliable third party indicating that the individual has a disability and that the animal would provide emotional support or other assistance that would ameliorate one or more symptoms or effects of the disability.

BGSU, in consultation with the individual (and other parties, as appropriate), may consider the criteria below in determining whether the presence of the animal is reasonable in the making of a housing assignment for an individual with an assistance animal:

(i) Whether the animal poses or has posed in the past a direct threat to the individual or others;

(ii) Whether the animal causes or has caused excessive damage to housing beyond reasonable wear and tear;

(iii) Whether the size of the animal is too large for available assigned housing space;

(iv) Whether the animal's presence would force another person from individual housing (e.g., due to conflicting disability accommodation needs) and that person was assigned to the housing before the resident with a disability-related animal accommodation;

(v) Whether the animal's presence violates individuals' right to peace and quiet enjoyment; and

(vi) Whether the animal is housebroken or is unable to live with others in a reasonable manner.

An individual wishing to request an assistance animal must provide written consent for accessibility services to disclose information regarding the request for and presence of the assistance animal to those individuals (including, but not limited to, university personnel and each potential and/or actual roommate or neighbor) who may be impacted by the presence of the animal in university housing. The disclosure shall be limited to information related to the animal and shall not include information related to the individual's disability. BGSU reserves the right to assign an individual with an assistance animal to a single room without a roommate.

The office of residence life and/or the office of student housing, in consultation with accessibility services, may remove an assistance animal if:

(i) The animal poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others;

(ii) The animal causes substantial damage to university property or the property of others;

(iii) The animal's presence requires or results in a fundamental alteration of a program;

(iv) The handler consistently fails to comply with this policy; or

(v) The animal or its presence creates an unmanageable disturbance or interference with the university community.

Any removal of an assistance animal may be appealed to the director of accessibility services (or designee); however, the assistance animal may not return to university housing unless an appeal is granted. The written appeal must be received within fifteen business days following the written notice of removal and must include:

(a) A detailed description f the issue, including significant dates;

(b) The basis for the appeal and any supporting documentation as necessary; and

The decision of the director of accessibility services (or designee) is final. Should the assistance animal be removed from university housing, the handler is still subject to all terms and conditions of the on-campus housing and dining agreement.

(D) Equity impact statement

The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated January 3, 2024 at 8:29 AM

History

Effective: January 3, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-25 Parental/legal guardian notification.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The purpose is to articulate when the university may contact parents/legal guardians to notify them of certain code of student conduct violations or to disclose information necessary to protect the health, safety, and well-being of their student or other individuals The goal of parental/legal guardian notification is to enlist support to create a safer community environment.

(B) Policy

(1) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) permits colleges and universities to notify parents/legal guardians when their student is under the age of twenty-one and is found responsible for violating any law or university policy concerning the use or possession or alcohol or controlled substance. In accordance with FERPA, the office of the dean of students or designee may notify parents/legal guardians, without their student's consent, when their student is under the age of twenty-one and;

(a) Violates the code of student conduct concerning the use or possession of controlled substances (i.e., illegal drugs excluding prohibited cannabis or substances derived from prohibited cannabis); or

(b) Violates the code of student conduct concerning the use or possession of alcohol and/or prohibited cannabis or substances derived from prohibited cannabis, when any of the following apply:

(i) The student has violated this section of the code for a second time;

(ii) Medical attention was required as a result of the alcohol-related behavior;

(iii) The student demonstrated reckless disregard for their own personal safety and/or the safety of others;

(iv) There is significant property damage as a result of the related behavior; or

(v) The student accepted admittance into the alternative resolution program.

(2) FERPA also permits colleges and universities to disclose to parents/legal guardians information that is necessary to protect the health or safety of their student or other individuals. In accordance with FERPA, the office of the dean of students or designee may notify parents/legal guardians, without their student's consent and regardless of the student's age, if any of the following situations occurs:

(a) Their student was transported to the hospital for a serious or life-threatening condition; or

(b) There is concern for the immediate safety of their student or other individuals.

Equity impact statement: the policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated June 6, 2024 at 9:48 AM

History

Effective: June 6, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-28 Code of student conduct.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The Bowling Green state university (BGSU) community is committed to fostering an environment that is conducive to academic inquiry, a productive campus life and thoughtful study and discourse. The student conduct and conflict resolution fuction within the office of the dean of students is committed to an educational and developmental process that balances the interests of individual students, recognized student organizations, and student groups with the interests of the university community. Within our learning community, we endeavor to act on our core values:

(1) A growth mindset.

We foster intellectual and personal growth by encouraging curiosity, critical thinking and lifelong learning in all members of our community.

(2) An innovative spirit

We embrace bold ideas and encourage every member of our community to turn innovation into action.

(3) Opportunities for all

We are measured by the success of all we include, emphasizing our commitment to access to higher education and a learning community were all can belong and are treated with kindness and respect.

(4) Collaboration and community

We believe in the power of collaboration to drive positive change and mutual success.

(5) Excellence in all we do.

We pursue excellence in everything we do to make a meaningful difference in our work, relationships, and communities.

A community exists on the basis of shared values and principles. BGSU strives to ensure everyone feels valued and respected and is committed to rights protected by the First Amendment of the United States, including, the freedom of speech and expression. At BGSU, students, recognized student organizations, and student groups are expected to uphold and abide by certain standards of conduct that form the basis of the code of student conduct. However, in no event shall the code be used to discipline a student, recognized student organization, or student group for speech which is protected by federal, state, and local law.

Each member of the BGSU community bears responsibility for their conduct and to assume reasonable responsibility for the behavior of others. When members of the community fail to exemplify these values by engaging in violations of the rules set within this code of student conduct, the proceedings outlined within are used to assert and uphold the code of student conduct.

The student conduct process at BGSU is not intended to punish students, recognized student organizations, or student groups; rather, it exists to protect the interests of the community and to challenge those whose behavior is not in accordance with our policies. This code of student conduct is intended to ensure that students, recognized student organizations, and student groups conduct themselves in accordance with the values of the university by participating in an environment which respects differences of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, race or color, marital status, ethnicity, religion or creed, ancestry, genetic information, pregnancy, national origin, disability, age, and veteran's status. Sanctions are intended to challenge moral and ethical decision-making and to help bring behavior into accord with community expectations. When a student, recognized student organization, or student group should no longer share in the privilege of participating in this community.

The student conduct process is quite different from criminal and civil court proceedings. Procedures and rights in student conduct procedures are conducted with fairness to all but are not an extension of, or replacement for, the local, state, or federal legal system. Due process, as defined within these procedures, assures written notice and an opportunity to be heard before an objective decision-maker. No student, recognized student organization, or student group will be found in violation of the code of student conduct without information showing that it is more likely than not a policy violation occurred.

Students, recognized student organizations, and student groups are responsible for knowing the information, policies, and procedures outlined in the code of student conduct. BGSU reserves the right to make changes to this code of student conduct as necessary and once those changes are posted online, they are in effect. Students, recognized student organizations, and student groups are encouraged to check online for the updated versions of all policies and procedures.

(B) Definitions

(1) The term "code" means the code of student conduct.

(2) The term "student(s)" means any person who has a continuing educational relationship with the university that lasts from the time they are admitted to the university up through the date of graduation, withdrawal, or dismissal. This term includes, but is not limited to:

(a) Newly admitted student(s) who have attended orientation;

(b) Currently enrolled individual(s), including dual-enrolled student(s); and/or

(3) The term "recognized student organization" menas a group of people who are associated with each other and who have registered with the university as a student organization as outlined in rule 3341-2-36 of the Administrative Code.

(4) The term "student group" means a group of people who are associated with the university and each other, but who have no registered, or are not required to register as a student organization (e.g., athletic teams, spirit groups, military organizations, honor societies, musical or theatrical ensembles, bands, and/or clubs).

(5) The term "university official" includes any person employed by the university and any person serving the university in an official capacity.

(6) The term "member of the university community" includes, but isn't limited to, students, recognized student organizations, university official, trustee, faculty, staff, visitors, or any other person serving the university in an official capacity. The dean of students or designee shall determine a person's status as a member of the university community.

(7) For the purposes of the code, the term "university premises" includes all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, leased, used, controlled, or supervised by the university, whether in Bowling Green, Ohio, or elsewhere.

(8) The terms "shall" and "will" are used in the imperative sense.

(9) The term "may" is used in the permissive sense.

(10) The term "day" means business days (Monday through Friday) when the university is open, regardless of whether classes are in session. In determining any deadlines as set forth in the code, references to a number of "days" prior to or ofter occurrence of an event shall not include the day of the event.

(11) The term "complainant" means any person filing am incident report of alleged misconduct or otherwise bringing a complaint to the attention of a university official charged with receiving, investigating, and remedying a complaint.

(12) The term "respondent" means a student, or recognized student organization against whom an incident report of alleged misconduct has been filed under this code. When the respondent is a recognized organization, the presiding officer or an appointed student affiliated with the organization shall serve as the offical representative throughout the conduct process.

(13) The term "health" means physical and/or mental well-being.

(14) For the purposes of the code, the term "residence hall" means any hall, house, or other living unit owned or leased by the university for the purpose of providing student housing.

(15) The term "incident report" means any allegation of misconduct submitted through http://bgsu.edu/reportit. The university also treats law enforcement agency reports and citations as incident reports.

(16) The term "conduct administrator" means an individual or entity authorized by the dean of students or designee to facilitate the investigation and informal resolution process involving alleged violations of the code.

(17) The term "decision-maker" means an individual or entity authorized by the dean of students or designee to facilitate the formal resolution process involving alleged violations of the code.

(18) The term "preponderance of the evidence" is the standard of proof for alleged violation(s) of the code. A preponderance of the evidence means that, based on all the reliable, relevant evidence and reasonable inferences from that evidence, the respondent is more likely than not in violation of the code.

(19) The term "not in good conduct standing" is defined as a student, recognized student organization, or student group that is currently on university conduct probation. This standing is to alert a student, recognized student organization, or student group that their behavior(s) does not adhere to the code of student conduct and any subsequent policy violation(s) will likely result in suspension or expulsion and may result in loss of certain privileges. Recognized student organizations and student groups may choose to limit a student's involvement or participation with as well as benefits from (e.g., receiving awards, scholarships, or forms of recognition) when a student is not in good conduct standing.

(20) The term "attempt" is defined as conduct that, if successful, would constitute or result in the prohibited conduct.

(21) The term "complicit" is defined as actions which encouraged and/or assisted another in engaging in prohibited conduct.

(22) The term "image" means "photograph, film, videotape, digital recording, or other depiction or portrayal of a person or persons."

(23) As used in the "Non-Title IX Sexual Misconduct" section of the code, "consent" and "incapacitation" have the same meaning as used in university policy and rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code: Title IX sexual harassment policy and procedures.

Ultimate authority for student conduct is vested in the board of trustees of the university. The board of trustees has delegated authority for student conduct to the university's president. The dean of students is the person designated by the president to be responsible for the administration of the code. Conduct authority may be delegated to university officials and committees as set forth in this code, in accordance with other university policies, rules, or regulations, and as deemed appropriate by the dean of students or designee.

(D) Jurisdiction

(1) This code applies to the conduct of students, recognized student organizations, and student groups that occurs on or off university premises, including conduct using university computing or network resources, which adversely affects members of the university community and/or the pursuit of its objectives including, but not limited to, creating a positive academic environment, promoting responsible citizenship, and fostering an inclusive community.

(2) This code applies to a student's conduct if the student was considered a student, as defined in this code, at the time fo the alleged incident, even if the student withdraws from the university while a conduct matter is pending. This code applies to recognized student organization's conduct if the student organization was registered with the university as a student organization at the time of the alleged incident, even if the student organization surrenders or loses its recognition while the conduct matter is pending.

(3) This code may be applied to behavior conducted online, via email, or other electronic medium. Students, recognized student organizations, and student groups should also be aware that online postings such as blogs, web postings, chats, and social networking sites are in the public sphere and are not private. These postings can subject a student, recognized student organization, or student group to allegations of conduct violations if evidence of policy violations is posted online.

(E) Violation of law and university policy

An incident report may be filed against a student, recognized student organization, or student group charged with a violation of a law that is also a violation of this code if both violations result from the same factual situation, independent of any pending criminal prosecution or civil litigation. Proceedings under the code may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following criminal prosecution or civil litigation.

(F) Intersection with Title IX sexual harassment and policy and procedures

(1) The Title IX sexual harassment and policy and procedures, rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code, has certain jurisdictional limitations. An allegation of prohibited conduct as defined under that policy that is outside the scope of that policy's jurisdiction, but within the jurisdiction of the university under the code, will be treated as an allegation of prohibited conduct under this code.

(2) A matter may be referred for jurisdictional reasons from the Title IX process to the code process at any time or may originate in the office of the dean of students and will be considered non-Title IX sexual misconduct. Interim measures under this code may be applied as warranted. The code process for a referred matter is set forth in this code. The dean of students (or designee) will review each referred matter to determine if additional incident reporting, conduct meetings, or investigation are needed.

(3) If the respondent disputes an allegation of prohibited conduct under this code, the case will proceed in accordance with the hearing procedures set forth in the code. The appeal process will follow in accordance with the code.

(G) Prohibited conduct

Any student, recognized student organization, or student group found to have committed, attempted, or were complicit in one or more of the following acts of prohibited conduct will be subject to sanctions. The standard of proof in determining whether a student or recognized student organization has violated the code is the preponderance of the evidence.

(1) Offenses against the university community

(a) Acts of dishonesty including, but not limited to:

(i) Furnishing or submitting false information to the university or any university official including making a false accusation of misconduct or knowingly reporting a false emergency.

(ii) Furnishing or possessing or selling, attempting to obtain, or attempting to provide, falsified, or forged materials, documents, accounts, records, identifications, or financial instruments.

(iii) Tampering with the election of any recognized student organizations or student group.

(iv) Unauthorized use of university, recognized student organization, or student group funds.

(b) Violation(s) of the university's community living standards and/or residential living agreement.

(c) Violation(s) of other published university policies, rules, or regulations. Such policies, rules, or regulations include, but are not limited to: parking and traffic regulations, policies concerning recognized student organizations and other published policies.

(d) Faculty have the right to control the classroom environment and to permit or deny permission to do electronic video or audio recording at their discretion. Unless otherwise expressly permitted by the instructor, permission to record a class applies exclusively to the student who received permission from the instructor. The recording may not be accessed or utilized by any other individual. No replication of the recording may be made without the instructor's expressed permission.

(2) Offenses against persons

(a) Harm to others - intentionally or recklessly causing physical harm or endangering the health or safety of any person.

(b) Threatening behaviors - conduct or actions that causes a reasonable expectation of injury to the health or safety of any person, damage to another's property, or that intimidates another person which, through implied threats or acts, causes a reasonable fear of harm in another. To determine whether a "reasonable fear of harm" exists, one must examine the totality of the circumstances including whether the student, recognized student organization, or student group was alleged to have engaged in conduct designed to incite violence, or directed their actions towards a specific individual(s).

(c) Unwanted conduct - unwelcome conduct (including written or electronic communication) that is so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it substantially interferes with the ability of a person to work, learn, live or participate in, or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by the university.

(d) Discrimination or harassment - see rule 3341-5-51 of the Administrative Code: non-discrimination in employment and education which prohibits:

(i) Adverse education action taken under university authority against a person based upon that person's protected class.

(ii) Unwelcome verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct directed toward a person that is based on the person's protected class.

(e) Unauthorized recording or monitoring - using electronic or other means to watch or monitor, and/or to make a video, audio, or photographic record of any person in a location where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy without the person's prior knowledge or permission in each instance when such a recording is likely to cause injury, distress, or damage to reputation. The storing, sharing, and/or distributing of such unauthorized records by any means is also prohibited.

(f) Unauthorized distribution of personal information (doxing) - using any means to publish or distribute personal or private information of a person, without their consent, to harass that person, threaten their physical safety, or encourage antoher to do so.

(g) Hazing - see university policy and rule 3341-2-49 of the Administrative Code: anti-hazing policy.

(i) Hazing means doing any of the following or pressuring, causing, forcing, soliciting, or coercing any person to do any of the following, for the purpose of initiating, admitting, or affiliating an individual into or with a student group or student organization; continuing, reinstating, or enhancing an individual's membership or status in a student group or student organization; or perpetuating or furthering a tradition or ritual of a student group or student organization:

(a) Engage in any conduct prohibited by federal, state and/or municipal criminal law, regardless of whether an arrest is made, or criminal charges are brought;

(b) Take into their body any food, liquid (including alcohol), drug, or other substance that subjects the person to a substantial risk of mental or physical harm; and /or

(c) Cause or create a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm to another and/or engage in any act or omission that contributes to the death of another.

(ii) See rule 3341-2-49 of the Administrative Code for reporting obligations and options, investigation procedures, corrective action, and zero tolerance sanctions.

(iii) Per rule 3341-2-49 of the Administrative Code, the following acts constitute prohibited conduct:

(a) Purposefully, knowingly, recklessly, or negligently hazing any person.

(b) Involvement in the planning of hazing and/or being present during hazing.

(d) Failing to assist or seek assistance for if the individual knows or reasonably should know that another is in danger from effects of hazing.

(e) Knowingly making a false accusation of hazing.

(f) Failing to report any information about past, current, or planned hazing.

(g) Failing to cooperate in an investigation of hazing.

(h) Retaliating against or taking adverse action towards any reporting party and/or person participating in a hazing investigation or conduct proceeding.

(h) Retaliation - A student, recognized student organization, or student group shall not take any adverse action against any person who files an incident report, brings forward a complaint or concern, serves as a witness, assists, or participates in any investigation or in any university proceeding.

(i) Non-Title IX sexual misconduct- All complaints or reports of sexual harassment, sexual assault, stalking, dating violence, and domestic violence by or on behalf of students, recognized student organizations, and student groups will initially be referred to the university's Title IX coordinator or designee for review and determination of whether the allegation is covered by rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code. If the alleged sexual misconduct is not within the definitions or jurisdictional elements of the university's Title IX sexual harassment policy and procedures, such alleged misconduct will be referred to as "Non-Title IX sexual misconduct." The procedures for Non-Title IX sexual misconduct are set forth in this code. Non-Title IX sexual misconduct may refer to definitions within the university's Title IX sexual harassment policy and procedures, but are not subject to that policy's jurisdictional limitations. Non-Title IX sexual misconduct, as prohibited by the code, includes:

(i) Sexual assault - as defined in rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code: Title IX sexual harassment and policy and procedures.

(ii) Sexual harassment - as defined in rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code: Title IX sexual harassment and policy and procedures.

(iii) Stalking - as defined in rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code: Title IX sexual harassment and policy and procedures.

(iv) Dating violence - as defined in rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code: Title IX sexual harassment and policy and procedures.

(v) Domestic violence - as defined in rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code: Title IX sexual harassment and policy and procedures.

(vi) Retaliation - as defined in rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code: Title IX sexual harassment and policy and procedures.

(vii) Violation of mutual restrictions on contact between parties - as defined in rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code: Title IX sexual harassment and policy and procedures.

(viii) Sexual misconduct - sexual misconduct may include:

(a) Any intentional or attempted touching of another without consent, for the purposes of sexual degradation, sexual gratification, or sexual humiliation, that is not prohibited by the Title IX sexual harassment and policy and procedures;

(b) Touching for the purposes of sexual gratification in areas of the body that is not limited to breasts, buttocks, groin, or genitals;

(c) Sexual exploitation (such as, but not limited to voyeurism (whether in-person, from a hidden location, or through electronic means); peeping; causing the incapacitation of another for the purpose of compromising the person's ability to consent to sexual activity; recording, photographing, or disseminating pornographic or other private and/or sexual images or materials of another person without their consent; forwarding or disseminating pornographic or other private and/or sexual images to another person without their consent; demanding financial compensation, sexual activity, or another benefit under threat of disseminating pornographic or other private and/or sexual images of another; or any activity that goes beyond the boundaries of consent);

(d) Lewd or obscene sexual behavior, with or without the intent of sexual gratification, (such as public masturbation, engaging in sexually explicit activity in public spaces including online, exposure of oneself without another's consent, or engaging in sexually explicit pranks). For purposes of this paragraph, "consent" has the meaning as in university policy and rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code: Title IX sexual harassment and policy and procedures; and

(e) Intentionally or knowingly exposing another person to a sexually transmitted infection without the other's knowledge.

(3) Offenses against property

(a) Attempted or actual theft of property or services of the university or another.

(b) Possession of stolen property, whether the person knew or reasonably should have known the property was stolen/belonged to another.

(c) Intentional, reckless, or negligent conduct that results in damage of property of the university or another (including defacing property or vandalism).

(d) Unauthorized possession, duplication, or use of keys and other entry codes or devices to any premises.

(e) Unauthorized moving or improperly tampering with the property of the university, or member of the university community.

(f) Unauthorized presence in or unathorized use of property, resources, or facilities.

(g) Theft or other abuse of computer facilities, accounts, or resources including, but not limited to:

(i) Unauthorized entry into a file or university system to use, read, or change the contents, or for any other purpose.

(ii) Unauthorized transfer of or tampering with a file.

(iii) Use of another individual's identification and/or university credentials.

(iv) Use of computing facilities, accounts, or resources to interfere with the work of others.

(v) Use of computing facilities, accounts, or resources to send obscene or abusive messages.

(vi) Use of computing facilities, accounts, or e-mail to send unsolicited or unauthorized messages with the intention of reaching a mass of users.

(vii) Use of computing facilities, accounts, or resources to interfere with normal operation of the university computing system.

(viii) Use of computing facilities, accounts, or resources in violation of copyright laws.

(ix) Any violation of the university's information technology policies.

(h) Littering.

(4) Offenses disrupting order or disregarding health and safety

(a) Drugs

(i) Use and/or possession of controlled substances or other drugs, including prohibited cannabis or substances derived from prohibited cannabis (e.g. delta-6, delta-8, delta-10), except as expressly permitted by law. Note, while Ohio has legalized both medical and recreational marijuana, the use, possession, and/or storage of medical or recreational marijuana is strictly prohibited on university premises and at university sponsored events and activities because marijuana remains illegal under federal law.

(ii) Use and/or possession of drug-related paraphernalia except as expressly permitted by law.

(iii) The abuse, misuse, sale, or distribution of prescription drugs.

(iv) Sell, distribute, furnish, manufacture, cultivate and/or offer for sale of any controlled substance or other drug, except as expressly permitted by law.

(v) Misconduct while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or other substances which may alter a person's state of mind. This includes, but not limited to, operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or disorderly conduct due to the influence of drugs.

(b) Alcohol

(i) Use and/or possession of alcoholic beverages except as expressly permitted by law and university policy. This includes, but is not limited to, the underage possession or consumption of alcohol.

(ii) Sell, distribute, furnish, produce and/or offer for sale alcohol except as expressly permitted by law.

(iii) Misconduct under the influence of alcohol including, but not limited to, operating a vehicle under the influence, disorderly conduct due to intoxication, or public intoxication.

(iv) Failure of a recognized student organization or student group to take all necessary steps to ensure that no person under the legal drinking age possesses alcoholic beverages at functions it sponsors or within any property or transportation it owns, operates, and/or rents.

(v) Providing a location for any individual to use and/or possess alcoholic beverages not expressly permitted by law or university policy.

(i) Possession, storage, or use of weapons including but not limited to firearms, compressed air-guns, pellet guns, etc. on university premises except as expressly permitted by law and university policy.

(ii) Possession, storage, or use of dangerous materials including but not limited to fireworks, explosives, or chemicals which are corrosive or explosive on university premises except as expressly permitted by law and university policy.

(iii) Use of any other object not already mentioned used to intimidate, threaten, harm, and/or provide force can be considered a weapon under this provision.

(d) Fire safety

(i) Failing to properly evacuate during a fire alarm.

(ii) Falsely reporting a fire-related emergency.

(iii) Tampering with or improperly engaging a fire alarm, smoke detector, or sprinkler system.

(iv) Improper use or possession of fire safety equipment.

(v) Intentionally or recklessly causing a fire, regardless of whether it damages property, or causes injury to another.

(e) Gambling-illegal gambling or wagering.

(f) Disruptive behavior

(i) Disrupting and/or interfering with university operations including, but not limited to, obstruction of teaching, research, and/or administrative activities.

(ii) Causing, inciting, or participating in any conduct that unnecessarily disturbs others or disrupts local municipalities including, but not limited to, participating in or inciting a riot.

(iii) Creating a health and/or safety hazard, including but not limited to, interfering with an individual's ability to seek help or contact emergency services, dangerous pranks, hanging out of or climbing from/on/in windows, balconies, roofs, etc., violating federal, state, local, or university public health and/or safety requirements, or exceeding the maximum occupancy of a structure.

(iv) Failure to comply with directions of law enforcement, emergency personnel, or authorized university officials (including residence life staff) acting within the scope of their job duties, including but not limited to, failure to identify oneself to these persons when requested to do so.

(v) An act, which deliberately interferes with the freedom of speech of any member or guest of the university community.

(vi) Public urination or defecation in a place that is not intended for use as a restroom.

(g) Harm to animals - intentional physical harm or threats of harm to animals, including but not limited to companion animals, service animals, or emotional support animals. Lawful hunting and fishing is not prohibited by the code. The care and use of animals involved in research activities is governed by the institutional animal care and use committee and not the code.

(5) Noncompliance with university directive of interference with university process

This includes, but is not limited to:

(a) Failing to obey the directives of a university official, including a dean, professor, director, conduct administrator, or other decision-maker. (e.g., failure to appear at a conduct meeting or hearing, failure to comply with with interim actions or sanctions imposed on under the code, or failure to follow classroom expectations of instructor).

(b) Falsifying, distorting, intentionally omitting, or misrepresenting information to the university or university official, including but not limited to, a conduct or investigatory meeting or hearing, or knowingly initiating a false statement or complaint, or making a misrepresentation on an application.

(c) Discouraging or attempting to discourage a person's proper participation in, or use of, the university reporting structure whether in person or via a digital platform such as e-mail or social media.

(d) Harassing and/or intimidating a university official, conduct administrator or decision-maker.

(e) Harassing and/or intimidating any person participating in an investigation or conduct proceeding.

(f) Intentionally delaying a conduct investigation, meeting, or hearing.

(g) Destroying or concealing information of an alleged policy violation.

(h) Influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit a violation of the conduct process.

(6) Shared responsibility for infractions

(a) Any action or inaction that contributes to a violation of university policies, including but not limited to, planning, causing, facilitating, or aiding the violation, whether present during the violation or not.

(b) Students, recognized student organizations, and student groups may be held responsible for the conduct of their guests while on university premises, at university-sponsored or supervised activities, and at functions sponsored by any recognized student organization or student group when the student or members of the recognized student organizations had knowledge of, facilitated, or contributed to the guests' misconduct.

(7) Violation of state, federal, or local laws - any act or omission that constitutes a violation of federal, state, or local laws, which is not otherwise covered in this code.

(H) Organizational and group responsibility

(1) An incident report may be filed against a recognized student organization or student group under the code. A recognized student organization, a student group, and individual students may be held collectively and individually responsible for violations of the code, as well as for violations of the code conducted by those associated with the recognized student organization or student group, which includes guests and alumni. When an incident report is filed naming a recognized student organization as respondent, the presiding officer and/or students affiliated with the organization shall be required to participate in meetings and hearings as representatives.

(2) The following factors may be considered to determine if an activity or event is affiliated with a recognized student organization or student group:

(a) Multiple members, alumni, or authorized representatives were present during the activity or event.

(b) The purpose of the activity or event was related to initiating, admitting, or affiliating an individual into or with a recognized student organization or student group; continuing, reinstating, or enhancing an individual's membership or status in a recognized student organization or student group; or perpetuating or furthering a tradition or ritual of a recognized student organization or student group.

(c) The activity or event was paid for by the recognized student organization or student group, paid for by personal funds collected from one or more members of the recognized student organization or student group, or paid for by funds collected from one or more guest(s) of the activity or event.

(d) The activity or event occurred on property owned, controlled, rented, leased, or used by the recognized student organization or student group as well as any person affiliated with the recognized student organization or student group.

(e) A reasonable person would associate the activity or event with the recognized student organization or student group based upon advertisement or communication concerning the activity or event.

(f) One or more officers or leaders of the recognized student organization or student group helped plan or execute the activity or event.

(I) Conduct in residential facilities

Members of the university's residential community are responsible for their own actions as well as for the actions of their guest(s). Showing consideration for others and respect of university and personal property are the basic foundations of community living. At times, it may be necessary for the university to hold community members responsible for their actions that violate university policies. Any resident who violates a university policy, including the community living standards, may be held accountable via this code.

(J) Interim measures

The dean of students or designee may impose interim measures when they have reasonable cause to believe the student or recognized student organization poses a threat to the safety and/or well-being of others or if significant disruption to normal operations of the university may occur; and/or when otherwise provied by law.

(1) Interim actions

(a) Interim actions may be implemented by a conduct administrator or designee and include, but are not limited to: no contact directives(s); restriction from specific classes, campus facilities, activities, or locations; change of housing assignment; restrictions from entering certain institutional property; requirement to secure a psychological or other relevant evaluation; cease and desist mandates; restriction from facilitating or participating in designated campus activities; other measures designed to promote the safety or well-being of the parties and BGSU community, etc.

(b) An interim action shall remain in effect until removed or altered by the dean of students or designee or as the result of the student conduct process. With the exception of "No Contact" directives implemented by the office of the dean of students, students or recognized student organizations may challenge an interim action in writing to the dean of students or designee within three days of the imposition of the interim action. Failure to comply with an interim action may result in a referral to the office of the dean of students and/or the BGSU police department or additional interim actions including interim suspension.

(2) Interim suspension

(a) A conduct administrator or designee may impose or modify a university suspension and/or residence hall removal for a student or recognized student organization at any point during the conduct process. An interim suspension or residence hall removal takes effect immediately upon notice being sent.

(b) During an interim suspension, a student or recognized student organization may be denied access to a living unit and/or to the campus, including classes, and/or all other university activities or privileges for which the student or recognized student organization might otherwise be eligible. A recognized student organization shall discontinue all activities during an interim suspension.

(c) A student or recognized student organization will receive written notice of the interim suspension, including a description of the alleged misconduct.

(d) The student or recognized student organization may within three days of the imposition of the interim suspension, petition the dean of students or designee for reinstatement.

(e) The petition must be in writing and must include supporting documentation or evidence that the student or recognized student organization does not pose, or no longer poses, a significant risk of substantial harm to the health or safety of others or property.

(f) The written petition and the supporting documentation or evidence will be reviewed by the dean of students or designee.

(g) The dean of students or designee may choose to meet with the student or recognized student organization before deciding on reinstatement.

(h) The decision of the dean of students or designee is final.

(K) Filing an incident report

(1) Any person may file an incident report against a student, recognized student organization, or student group alleging violation(s) of this code. An incident report shall be made in writing and directed to the office of the dean of students or designated office. Though anonymous complaints are permitted, doing so may limit the university's ability to investigate and respond to a complaint. Those who are aware of misconduct are encouraged to report it as quickly as possible to the office of the dean of students and/or to the BGSU police department.

(2) There is no time limit on reporting violations of the code; however, the more time that has elapsed before submitting an incident report, the more challenging it becomes for university officials to obtain information and witness statements and to make determinations regarding alleged violations.

(3) A complainant may be asked to participate in the conduct meeting or hearing as a witness and to present relevant information.

(4) After receiving an incident report, a conduct administrator will conduct a preliminary inquiry into the nature of the incident report, jurisdiction, and information available. The conduct administrator may determine that there is insufficient information to pursue an investigation, that the behavior alleged, even if proven, would not violate the code, or may initiate an investigation to determine if the incident report has merit and if it can be resolved by mutual consent of the persons involved on a basis acceptable to the conduct administrator. Such resolution shall be final and there shall be no subsequent proceedings. If a conduct administrator determines the incident report has merit and cannot be resolved by mutual consent, the conduct administrator may participate in any subsequent conduct meeting or hearing to resolve the incident report.

(5) The dean of students or designee reserves the right to refer any incident report to any individual, entity or committee other than a conduct administrator or decision-maker.

(6) If a respondent fails to keep a meeting with the conduct administrator, a hold may be placed on the student's registration account and/or on the conferring of a degree, and a decision regarding appropriate charges, responsibility and/or sanctions may still be made.

(L) Communication

BGSU email is the official means of communication with students regarding student conduct matters and constitutes written notice. Students are responsible for all communication delivered to their BGSU email address per university policy and rule 3341-6-43 of the Administrative Code. When the respondent is a recognized student organization or student group, the presiding officer or an appointed student affiliated with the organization or group will serve as the point of contact for communication concerning the conduct process.

BGSU may seek to deliver written notice via regular U.S. mail, or a recognized mail carrier, to an address provided to the university by the student, if the university determines that the notice was not otherwise deliverable using the BGSU email. The student will be deemed to have received the notice three days after the communication was provided to the mail carrier.

(M) Investigation

(1) Respondents will have the opportunity to meet with a conduct administrator to discuss the incident report. During the investigation meeting, the respondent will:

(a) Review the incident report and other relevant information.

(b) Be afforded the opportunity to be accompanied by one advisor of their choosing and at their expense. Respondent may, at no cost, request an advisor from the university's office of the dean of students. Advisors are not allowed to speak or participate in the conduct process. Meetings will not be scheduled around the availability of an advisor. Advisors may not appear in lieu of the respondent. An attorney can be used as an advisor but is subject to the aforementioned stipulations.

(c) Have an opportunity to respond to the incident report and to present relevant information and/or witnesses. Witnesses are not character references and must have relevant information concerning the alleged policy violation(s).

(2) Based on the information gathered during the investigation including statements from the respondent, a determination will be made by the conduct administrator whether the information presented warrants a charge of an alleged violation(s) of the code, using the preponderance of the evidence standard of proof.

(3) Respondents will be provided up to two days to choose between the informal and formal resolution options. Should the respondent fail to decide, the case may be resolved without the input from the respondent.

(N) Informal resolution

(1) The respondent will receive, via electronic mail to the respondent's BGSU email address, written notice that a complaint has been received prior to the conduct meeting.

(2) Respondents not disputing alleged policy violation(s) may choose the informal process for resolution of one or more violations of the code.

(3) The respondent will have the opportunity to discuss sanctions with a conduct administrator.

(4) A final determination of sanctions will be provided in writing to the respondent through email.

(5) As permitted by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), victims of crimes of violence will be notified of the resolution and the sanctions.

(6) Guidelines for the implementation of sanction(s) are outlined in the sanctions section of this code.

(O) Formal resolution-administrative hearing

(1) Respondents disputing the alleged policy violation(s) are entitled to a formal administrative hearing before a decision-maker.

(2) Procedures for an administrative hearing

(a) The respondent will receive written notice via electronic mail of the hearing date at least three days prior to the hearing.

(b) By a date specified that is communicated via electronic mail by the decision-maker, the respondent and conduct administrator may submit materials for the hearing packet, which may include a list of witnesses for the hearing, a summary of the information each witness is expected to provide, advisor contact information, and any relevant documents, incident reports, or statements the respondent and conduct administrator expect to present at the hearing. In advance of the hearing, the decision-maker will provide the final hearing packet, which will include all relevant documents, reports, or statements pertaining to the investigation submitted by the respondent and conduct administrator that were determined by the decision-maker to be relevant to the hearing.. Materials not included in the hearing packet cannot be introduced at the hearing.

(c) Prior to the hearing, a respondent may challenge the decision-maker on the grounds of a conflict of interest that might affect impartial consideration of the finding. The decision-maker will set a deadline for the respondent to submit a concern regarding a conflict of interest in advance of the hearing. The dean of students or designee will review any submissions and make a final determination if a different decision-maker will be assigned. This final determination will be provided to the respondent in writing via electronic mail.

(d) The respondent may be accompanied by one advisor of their choosing and at their expense. Advisors are not permitted to speak or participate in a hearing. Hearings will not be scheduled around the availability of an advisor. The respondent must include their advisor's name, telephone number, and email address as part of their hearing packet materials. Advisors may not appear in lieu of the respondent; however, an advisor may consult with the respondent during a hearing and may assist with preparation for the hearing. An attorney may serve as an advisor but is subject to the aforementioned stipulations. Should an advisor not be able to attend the hearing date, the hearing will still proceed.

(e) Admission to the hearing of persons other than the parties involved (i.e., respondent, conduct administrator, will be at the discretion of the decision-maker. Hearings will be closed to the public.

(f) For incidents involving more than one respondent, the decision-maker will determine whether there will be one hearing or separate hearings for each respondent. In joint hearings, separate determinations of responsibility will be made for each respondent.

(g) In rare instances, the university may decide to formally present a code case using legal counsel. In such cases, the respondent will be given adequate notice in order to seek the assistance of legal counsel, if so desired. In these instances, a staff member from the office of general counsel or their designee will serve as the conduct administrator.

(h) The respondent is strongly encouraged to attend and participate in the hearing; however, the respondent may choose to remain silent. If a respondent fails to appear for a hearing, the hearing may proceed without the respondent's presence. Although no inference shall be drawn against a respondent for failing to attend a hearing or remaining silent, the hearing may proceed, and the conclusion will be based on the evidence presented.

(i) The respondent may request alternative accommodations in lieu of being physically present at the hearing (i.e., a respondent may request to participate via a virtual platform).

(j) There will be a single verbatim record, such as an audio recording, for all formal hearings. The record will be the property of the university and maintained according to the record retention policy of this code.

(k) During an administrative hearing, the decision-maker will exercise control over the proceedings. The decision maker is permitted to ask questions. If any person is disruptive, they may be required to leave the hearing.

(l) During an administrative hearing, the decision-maker will determine whether information is relevant. Information will be considered relevant if it directly relates to the facts of the alleged violation(s) or appropriateness of a particular sanction. Formal rules of evidence (e.g., federal and state rules of evidence) shall not apply.

(m) The conduct administrator will be the first person to present information regarding the investigation during the hearing.

(n) The decision-maker will have an opportunity to ask questions to the conduct administrator pertaining to the investigation and/or alleged policy violation(s). The respondent will also have an opportunity to ask questions to the conduct administrator pertaining to the investigation and/or alleged policy violation(s).

(o) The second person who may present information during the hearing, is the respondent. The respondent may verbally respond to the charges.

(p) The respondent, conduct administrator, and decision-maker may ask questions. The decision-maker, at their discretion, may have questions from the respondent and conduct administrator directed through them versus allowing questions to be directly addressed to an individual.

(q) The decision-maker may disallow any question that seeks information that is not relevant or may rephrase the question to limit it to relevant information.

(r) Witnesses (other than the respondent and the conduct administrator) will be excluded from the hearing until it is their designated time to answer questions.

(s) The respondent and conduct administrator will be given a final opportunity to ask concluding questions of one other.

(t) The decision-maker will have a final opportunity to ask questions to the conduct administrator and the respondent pertaining to the investigation and/or alleged policy violation(s).

(u) The respondent will be given an opportunity to make a concluding statement pertaining to the facts of the case. Concluding statements are limited to no more than five minutes. The hearing will end after the concluding statement from the respondent.

(v) The decision-maker will consider the allegation(s) of prohibited conduct to determine if there was sufficient information by a preponderance of the evidence for a finding of responsibility for a code violation(s) and will make the final determination of responsibility regarding the charge(s) and will determine all sanctions.

(w) Prior conduct history will be considered for sanction purposes only.

(3) Hearing outcome and sanctions

(a) The respondent will have the opportunity to submit impact mitigation statements prior to the hearing. If the decision-maker finds the respondent to be responsible for prohibited conduct under the code, the decision-maker will review any impact or mitigation statements and will determine appropriate sanctions. The sanctioning process is to end the prohibited conduct, protect the best interests of the BGSU community, and promote the goals and objectives of this policy in a manner that supports the university's educational mission. Sanctions may also be designed to promote safety, deter similar behavior, and promote university values.

(b) The decision-maker will provide a written notice via electronic mail of the outcome of the hearing including a rationale for the finding, and any appeal rights to the respondent.

(c) As permitted by FERPA or other applicable laws, victims of crimes of violence will be notified of the resolution and the sanctions.

(d) Guidelines for the implementation of sanction(s) are outlined in the sanctions section of this code.

(4) Administrative review

Respondents disputing the alleged policy violation(s) of only the community living standards and/or residential living agreement are only entitled to an administrative review. An administrative review consists of the respondent submitting a written response. The written response must include the reasons that the student is contesting the alleged policy violation and provide additional information regarding the incident that they want considered, which can include names and statements of witnesses who have relevant information specific to the alleged violation. The administrative review officer, who is a designee of the dean of students, will examine the case, perform additional investigation if necessary, and render a finding regarding responsibility for the alleged violation(s) of the community living standards and/or residential living agreement and assign sanctions, if appropriate. If the respondent requests an administrative review but does not submit any additional information, the administrative review officer will examine the case notes and proceed with rendering a finding regarding responsibility for the alleged violation(s) of the community living standards and/or residential living agreement and assign sanctions, if appropriate.

(P) Amnesty

Student health and safety as well as removing barriers that might prevent the reporting of conduct that endangers people or property are substantial university interests. Per rule 3341-2-43 of the Administrative Code, at the university's discretion of the conduct administrator, amnesty may be extended on a case-by-case basis for minor violations of the code of student conduct (e.g., possession or use of alcohol or drugs) when seeking or obtaining medical assistance for self or others, as well as when reporting alleged incidents that endanger persons or property.

(Q) Alternative resolution program

This program allows students on a case-by-case basis to resolve first-time incidents for minor violations of the code by completing educational interventions that encourage students to reflect on their decision-making, values, personal responsibility and community impact without incurring a conduct record.

(1) Educational interventions assigned to students participating in this program may include, but are not limited to, classes, community service, presentations, workshops, and/or written assignments. In situations involving alcohol and/or prohibited cannabis, parental/legal guardian notification may occur.

(2) Participation in the program is at the discretion of the conduct administrator, and students must complete all educational interventions by the assigned deadline(s)

(3) Students who fail to successfully satisfy all terms and conditions of this program may be referred to the conduct resolution process for the original incident via the code.

(R) Restorative circle process

Restorative circles are facilitated by a conduct administrator and allows students and those negatively impacted by the student's conduct to engage in a facilitated dialogue to address conduct incidents and the impact the student's actions had on the impacted parties. During the restorative circle, an agreement is created to address the needs of the individual(s) negatively impacted. The conduct administrator will be responsible for documenting the agreement.

The dean of students or designee may determine that the restorative circle process will effectively address incidents for minor violations of the code where the student takes responsibility for negatively impacting one or more members of the university community and may be used as an outcome of the informal resolution process or the alternative resolution program. However, for a restorative circle process to occur, all those involved must agree to participate. Incidents involving true threats of harm, speech that constitutes discrimination, harassment, or certain acts of sexual misconduct are not eligible for a restorative circle process.

(S) Sanctions

(1) Imposition of sanctions - one or more of the following sanctions may be imposed upon any student or recognized student organization found to have violated the code:

(a) Warning - a written reprimand specifying the violation for which the student, recognized student organization, or student group is being held responsible.

(b) University conduct probation - University conduct probation is for a designated period of time and includes the probability of more severe sanctions, including suspension or expulsion, if the student, recognized student organization, or student group is found in violation of any university policy while on university conduct probation.

(c) Suspension - separation of the student from the university for a defined period of time, after which the student is eligible to return, and a permanent notation is placed on the student's transcript. While on suspension, the student is prohibited from being present on all university property. Conditions for readmission or re-recognition may be specified.

(d) Expulsion - permanent separation of the student from the university and a permanent notation is placed on the student's transcript. The student may also be permanently prohibited from being present on all university property.

(e) Withholding or revoking a degree - The university may withhold conferring a degree or revoke a conferred degree due to a finding of prohibited conduct when the student would have been suspended or expelled for the finding had the conduct process been completed prior to the awarding of the degree.

(f) Educational sanctions - work assignments, service to the university, classes, workshops, papers, or other related educational assignments.

(g) Restrictions and loss of privileges - Specific limitations may be imposed by the dean of students or designee and the terms of this sanction may include, but are not limited to, the following:

(i) Reassignment to another university housing space or facility or separation of a student university housing for a determined amount of time, including permanently. Conditions for return may be specified if the student is not permanently removed from university housing. In addition, a student may be restricted from being present in specified university housing locations.

(ii) Ineligible to hold any office or otherwise participate in any recognized student organization or student group or hold an elected or appointed office at the university; or

(iii) Ineligible to represent the university to anyone outside the university community in any way including: participating in the study abroad program, attending conferences, or representing the university at an official function, event, or intercollegiate competition as a player, manager, or student coach, etc.

(iv) Denial or restriction of access to certain facilities or of other privileges for a designated period of time.

(h) Restitution - compensation for loss, damage, or injury. This may take the form of appropriate service and/or monetary or material replacement.

(i) Confiscation of prohibited property - Items whose presence is in violation of university policy will be confiscated and will become the property of the university. Prohibited items may be returned to the owner at the discretion of the conduct administrator or hearing chair and/or BGSU police.

(j) Additional or alternate sanctions may be created or designed as deemed appropriate to the offense with the approval of the dean of students or designee.

(k) The following are additional sanctions that may be imposed on any recognized student organization found in violation of the code:

(i) Loss of status as a recognized student organization for a defined period of time or permanently. The office of student engagement shall notify any national or regional governing body with which the recognized student organization is associated or that sponsors social, academic, or sports events when such action is taken. BGSU reserves the right to alter or modify sanctions if new or additional information is learned while an organization is not recognized.

(ii) Loss or withdrawal of all student general fee dollars or other university funding for a specified amount of time.

(iii) Restriction of privileges - restrictions assigned to a recognized student organization or student group that limit specific activities, events, or operations for a specific period of time which may include, but are not limited to:

(a) Representing the university in any official capacity.

(b) Receiving awards or other forms of recognition from the university.

(c) Maintaining an office or other assigned space(s) on university property, including but not limited to, loss of small-group housing in a university premises.

(d) Participating in intramurals or other university activities.

(e) Being a sponsor, co-sponsor, or participant in specified activities.

(f) Using university specified resources (e.g., facilities or vehicles).

(g) Soliciting or selling items on campus.

(h) Traveling as a recognized student organization or student group.

(2) Guidelines for sanctions. Any sanctions will be proportionate to the severity of the violation and to the cumulative conduct history of the student, recognized student organization, or student group. In determining the sanction(s) to be imposed, the decision-maker should take into account any mitigating circumstances and any aggravating factors including, but not limited to, any provocation by the subject of the conduct that constituted the violation, any past misconduct by the student, any failure of the student to comply fully with previous sanctions, the actual and potential harm caused by the violation, the degree of intent and motivation of the student in committing the violation, and the severity and pervasiveness of the conduct that constituted the violation. Misconduct motivated by bias for classes protected by university policy, other than constitutionally protected expression, may be considered an aggravating factor for sanctioning. Impairment resulting from voluntary use of alcohol or drugs (i.e., other than medically necessary) will also be considered an aggravating, and not a mitigating, factor.

(3) Failure to complete sanctions or attend a code of student conduct meeting may result in a university hold being placed on a student's ability to register for subsequent semesters or change a class schedule as well as the university may withhold the conferring of a degree.

(T) Arrest or criminal conviction for crime(s) of violence

After a hearing prescribed by section 3345.22 of the Revised Code, students who are arrested for an offense of violence may be immediately suspended from the university. Further, in accordance with section 3345.23 of the Revised Code, students are subject to dismissal if they are criminally convicted of an offense of violence. As used in this paragraph, an "offense of violence" means any of the following offenses (or substantially equivalent offenses under local ordinance) that occurred on university premises and/or affected persons affiliated with or property owned by the university, or is committed in the immediate vicinity of the university and an emergency has been declared: aggravated murder, murder, voluntary manslaughter, involuntary manslaughter, felonious assault, aggravated assault, assault, permitting child abuse, strangulation, aggravated menacing, menacing by stalking, menacing, kidnapping, abduction, extortion, trafficking in persons, rape, sexual battery, gross sexual imposition, aggravated arson, arson, terrorism, aggravated robbery, robbery, aggravated burglary, burglary, inciting to violence, aggravated riot, riot, inducing panic, swatting, domestic violence, intimidation, intimidation of crime victim or witness, escape, improperly discharging a firearm at or into a habitation or school, patient abuse or neglect, endangering children or felonious penetration.

The processes and procedures under sections 3345.22 and 3345.23 of the Revised Code do not prohibit the university from taking conduct action against the student under the code for the same conduct, including but not limited to the imposition of an interim action/interim suspension.

(U) Parental/legal guardian notification - The university reserves the right to notify parents/legal guardians of dependent students regarding any conduct situation, particularly alcohol and other drug violations. The university may also notify parents/legal guardians of non-dependent students when under the age of twenty-one concerning drug violations and alcohol violations. Parental/legal guardian notification may also be utilized discretionarily by administrators when permitted by FERPA or consent of the student.

(V) Resolution and sanctions for student groups

The conduct administrator will determine if a student group by a preponderance of the evidence after having investigated a report of alleged misconduct. If this determination is made, the dean of students or designee and the divisional or unit leader (e.g., dean or vice president) will assign the appropriate sanction(s), and that decision is final and unreviewable. For cases that fall under rule 3341-2-49 of the Administrative Code (anti-hazing policy, the hazing prevention coordinator) or designee with also assist with this determination.

(W) Appeals

(1) Right to appeal

Unless otherwise specified, a respondent may appeal the sanction(s) imposed by a conduct administrator (informal resolution) or the decision rendered by the decision-maker or administrative review officer (formal resolution). Appeals are not intended to re-hear or re-argue the same case and are limited to the specific grounds outlined as follows:

(2) Grounds for appeal

Appeals requests are limited to the following grounds:

(a) A procedural or substantive error occurred that significantly impacted the outcome of the hearing (e.g., substantiated bias, material deviation from established procedures);

(b) To consider new evidence, unavailable during the original hearing or investigation, that could have substantially impacted the original finding or sanction. A summary of this new evidence and its potential impact must be included; and/or

(3) Appeal of informal resolution

Appeals shall be made to the dean of students or designee within five days of the date that the respondent was emailed the sanction notification letter rendered by the conduct administrator. The appeal shall be in writing and is limited to the sanctions imposed are substantially disproportionate to the severity of the violations. The decision of the dean of students or designee is final.

(4) Appeal of formal resolution

Appeals shall be made to the dean of students or designee within five days of the date that the respondent was emailed the outcome of the formal resolution process as determined by the decision maker. The appeal shall be in writing, stating the ground(s) for appeal. The decision of the dean of students or designee is final.

(5) Appeal proceedings

(a) An appeal is confined to the criteria set in this code.

(b) No appeal may be taken when conduct action is not imposed.

(d) The written appeal and the supporting documents will be reviewed in determining the outcome.

(e) The appeal officer may choose to meet with the respondent before determining the outcome.

(6) Potential appeal outcomes

(a) Uphold, modify, or eliminate the original sanction(s) in both the informal and formal resolution processes;

(b) Dismiss the case or individual charge(s) against the student or recognized student organization in the formal resolution process; or

(c) Order a new hearing or remand the matter to the original hearing authority, as appropriate. This process may include a new finding on responsibility and, if applicable, sanctions.

(X) Implementation of sanction(s)

Sanctions are effective immediately upon notice. Upon submission of appeal, sanctions will be held in abeyance until the appeal process has been exhausted. New deadlines may be reassigned as necessary. The dean of students or designee may impose interim measures during the appeal process to ensure the safety and well-being of members of the university community or preservation of university property.

(Y) Conduct records

Other than suspension and expulsion, conduct sanctions shall not be made part of the student's permanent academic record, but shall become part of the student's conduct record. All incidents involving the imposition of sanctions other than suspension, expulsion, and/or loss of status as a recognized student organization shall be removed from the student's, recognized student organization's, or student group's conduct record seven years from the year in which the offense occurred. Incidents involving the imposition of suspension, expulsion, and loss of status as a recognized student organization shall remain permanently on a student's, recognized student organization's, or student group's conduct record.

(Z) Refund policy

In the event of a suspension, expulsion, or residence hall removal, the university will follow the regular tuition refund schedule outlined by the office of registration and records. In the case of a student residing on campus, the university will follow the regular refund schedule concerning room and board.

(AA) Code of student conduct interpretation and review

(1) Staff within the office of the dean of students may develop procedural rules for the administration of hearings that are consistent with provisions of this code. Material deviation from student conduct rules will, generally, only be made as necessary and will include reasonable notice to the parties involved, either by posting online and/or in the form of written communication. The single decision-maker may vary procedures with notice upon determining that changes to law or regulation require policy or procedural alterations not reflected in this code. The single decision-maker may make minor modifications to procedure that do not materially jeopardize the fairness of the process for any party. Any question of interpretation of the code will be referred to the dean of students, whose interpretation is final.

(2) The code shall be reviewed annually under the direction of the dean of students or designee. Questions of interpretation regarding the code or student handbook shall be referred to the office of the dean of students. In keeping with normal university policy approval processes, the code and student handbook may, at the sole discretion of the university, be amended at any time.

Last updated May 19, 2026 at 7:47 AM

History

Effective: May 18, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-41

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Bowling Green state university (BGSU) prohibits sexual harassment and the crimes of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking (as defined by the Clery Act) and reaffirms its commitment to build a welcoming and safe environment. Toward that end, BGSU issues this statement of policy to inform the campus community of our programs to address sexual harassment, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking as well as the procedures for institutional disciplinary action in cases of alleged sexual harassment, dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking, when it is reported to a university official.

BGSU is committed to providing an environment where all members of the university community may pursue their employment or studies free from discrimination and harassment. All members of the university community have a responsibility to create and maintain an environment free from discrimination and harassment.

BGSU does not discriminate on the basis of sex in any of its education, employment, or service activities. BGSU prohibits discrimination based on sex, sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, retaliation, and violation of mutual restrictions on contact between the parties (collectively, "Prohibited Conduct").

BGSU has adopted this policy to express its commitment to: prevent prohibited conduct and address its effects should it occur; restore or preserve equal access to the university's education programs and activities; support individuals who report incidents of possible prohibited conduct and those affected by it; and provide a fair and impartial process for all parties when an incident is reported.

This policy establishes procedures and standards by which reported incidents of prohibited conduct will be received, investigated, evaluated and, when warranted, the manner in which sanctions will be imposed. It describes how BGSU will proceed, once possible prohibited conduct has been reported, consistent with our duties under state and federal laws, including, but not limited to, Title IX, the Clery Act, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), and related regulations.

(B) Policy scope

(1) This policy applies to BGSU students and employees in a BGSU education program or activity, and contractors and vendors in their performance of their contracts with the university. This policy also designates "mandatory reporters" and specifies the duties applicable to those faculty, staff, and volunteers.

(2) BGSU has jurisdiction under this policy whenever the prohibited conduct occurs on campus or in any building owned or controlled by a registered student organization.

(3) BGSU also has jurisdiction when prohibited conduct occurs off campus (including online or electronic conduct) in the United States if it occurs in connection with a BGSU education program or activity, including BGSU-sponsored research or internship programs or any other location, event, or circumstance in which BGSU exercised substantial control over both the respondent and the context in which the prohibited conduct occurred.

(4) Registered student organizations (RSOs) are registered with the office of student engagement. The university has jurisdiction over RSOs and it may address prohibited conduct committed in relation to RSO activities through the code of student conduct and this policy. Reports of prohibited conduct involving RSOs will be provided to the Title IX coordinator, who will confirm that the university takes appropriate action to restore or preserve equal access to the university's education program or activity.

(1) Advisor: a person chosen by a party to accompany the party to some or all meetings related to the resolution process, to advise the party on that process, and to conduct cross-examination for the party at the hearing, if applicable. Advisor also includes a person appointed by the university to conduct cross-examination for the party at the hearing.

(2) Business day: Monday through Friday, excluding Saturday, Sunday, recognized university holidays, and approved breaks.

(3) Coercion: conduct that would reasonably place a person in fear, and that is used to compel that person to engage in sexual activity or prohibited conduct. Examples of coercive conduct include, but are not limited to, intimidation and expressed or implied threats of immediate or future harm to the person or others. Harm may be a physical, emotional, reputational, financial, or other injury to that person or another.

(4) Complainant: a person who is alleged to be the victim of conduct prohibited by this policy and who is participating or attempting to participate in a university education program or activity at the time that a formal complaint is submitted. In some instances, the person who is alleged to be the victim of conduct prohibited by this policy may not wish to participate in the process. In those cases, the university may pursue a resolution process under this policy without a participating complainant.

(5) Confidential resource: professionals who are required by law to protect confidentiality or assigned as a confidential resource by BGSU.

(6) Consent

(a) Consent is a clear and unambiguous agreement to engage in a particular activity. The person who initiates a sexual activity is responsible for obtaining consent for that activity.

(b) Consent must be expressed outwardly through mutually understandable words or actions. The person who initiates a sexual activity may not infer consent from silence, passivity, or lack of resistance.

(d) Consent must be voluntarily given. It cannot be obtained through coercion or force.

(e) Consent must not be inferred from an existing or previous dating or sexual relationship. Even within an existing relationship, the parties must consent to engage in any sexual activity each time it occurs.

(f) Consent to one sexual activity is not consent to another sexual activity, nor is it consent to the same sexual activity at another time.

(g) A person may withdraw consent at any time. If consent is withdrawn, the sexual activity must stop immediately.

(h) To determine under this policy whether consent was sought and given, the university will evaluate what the respondent knew, or reasonably should have known, when all the relevant circumstances are considered.

(7) Decision maker: those who have decision-making and sanctioning authority within the university's formal grievance process.

(8) Education program or activity: locations, events, or circumstances where the university exercises substantial control over both the respondent and the context in which the alleged sex discrimination, sexual harassment, or retaliation occurs and also includes any building owned or controlled by a student organization that is officially recognized by the university.

(9) Finding: a formal determination as to whether there is enough relevant evidence to establish that the respondent violated this policy (as in a "finding of fact").

(10) Force: the use of physical action, strength, or violence to compel a person to participate in sexual activity.

(11) Formal complaint: a document filed by a complainant or signed by the Title IX coordinator alleging a Title IX policy violation by a respondent and requesting that the university investigate the allegation(s).

(12) Incapacitation

(a) Incapacitation occurs when someone cannot make rational, reasonable decisions because they lack the capacity to give knowing/informed consent (e.g., to understand the "who, what, when, where, why, or how" of their sexual interaction).

(b) Under this policy, a person who initiates sexual activity with another person and who actually knows or reasonably should have known that the person was incapacitated has not obtained consent.

(c) A person is incapacitated if, at the time consent is sought and regardless of the cause of incapacitation, they are physically or mentally helpless, asleep, unconscious, or unaware that sexual activity is taking place.

(d) A person may become incapacitated due to a temporary or permanent physical or mental health condition or due to the consumption of drugs or alcohol.

(e) When drugs or alcohol are involved, incapacitation is a state beyond drunkenness or intoxication. A person using drugs or drinking alcohol is not necessarily incapacitated: rather, their level of impairment must be significant enough to render that person unable to give consent.

(f) The effect of drugs or alcohol varies from person to person, but any of the following signs indicate that a person may be incapacitated: slurred or incomprehensible speech, stumbling or unsteady walking, falling, episodes of unconsciousness (as distinct from a subsequent failure of memory), vomiting, or incontinence.

(13) Investigator: the person(s) charged by the university with gathering facts about an alleged violation of this policy, objectively reviewing evidence, synthesizing the evidence, and compiling the information into an investigation report.

(14) Mandated reporter or mandatory reporter: a university employee who is obligated by this policy to share knowledge, notice, and/or reports or allegations of sexual harassment and/or retaliation with the Title IX coordinator.

(15) Parties: the complainant(s) and respondent(s), collectively.

(16) Preponderance of the evidence: the standard of proof used for alleged violation(s) of this policy. Preponderance of the evidence means that, based on all the reliable evidence and reasonable inferences from that evidence, the respondent is more likely than not in violation of this policy.

(17) Recognized student organizations (RSOs): a group of people who are associated with each other and who have registered with the University as a student organization as outlined in university policy of rule 3341-2-36 of the Administrative Code.

(18) Remedies: post-finding actions directed to the complainant and/or the community as mechanisms to address safety, prevent recurrence, and restore access to the university's education program or activity.

(19) Respondent: the person who has been reported to have engaged in conduct that may constitute sexual harassment or retaliation under this policy or its procedures.

(20) Sanction: a consequence imposed by the university on a respondent who is found to have violated this policy. For employees, the term sanction as used in this policy means discipline or corrective action.

(21) Supportive measures: non-disciplinary, non-punitive individualized services offered as appropriate, as reasonably available, and without fee or charge to the complainant or the respondent before or after the filing of a formal complaint or where no formal complaint has been filed. Such measures are designed to restore or preserve equal access to BGSU's education programs or activities without unreasonably burdening the other party, including measures designed to protect the safety of all parties or BGSU's educational environment.

(22) Title IX coordinator: is the official designated by the university to ensure compliance with Title IX and the university's Title IX program. References to the coordinator throughout this policy may also encompass a designee(s) of the coordinator for specific tasks.

(23) Witnesses: persons who observed the acts in question or have information relevant to the incident. A witness may not participate to speak about an individual's character unless relevant.

(D) Sources of assistance

(1) BGSU wants every student or employee who may have experienced harm to have access to resources for support and assistance. BGSU and the community offer a number of resources that can provide support and guidance in response to any incident of harm.

(2) These resources are available to every BGSU student or employee who may have experienced harmful conduct, regardless of whether they intend to report the conduct to university officials or law enforcement.

(3) For additional information on BGSU and community resources, including emergency and ongoing assistance; health, mental health, and advocacy services; options for reporting prohibited conduct; and available support with academics, housing, transportation, pregnancy, and employment, see the BGSU Title IX website. In addition, anyone may contact the Title IX coordinator, located in 207 Hayes hall or at 419-372-8476 to discuss available BGSU and community resources and assistance.

(4) Confidential and non-confidential resources

BGSU recognizes that there is an important difference between making a complaint to the university, seeking a community resource, seeking confidential assistance, and making a complaint to law enforcement. Many campus and community resources are not confidential. This paragraph outlines the confidential and non- confidential resources available to individuals who have experienced harmful conduct.

(a) Confidential resources

(i) Confidential resources are professionals who are required by law to protect confidentiality or assigned as a confidential resource by BGSU. A confidential resource must not reveal information disclosed in confidence unless they are given permission by the person who disclosed it, or there is an imminent threat of harm, or suspected abuse of a person under the age of eighteen, or as otherwise required or permitted by law or court order.

(ii) Confidential resources available to BGSU students include the BGSU counseling center, the Cocoon, psychological services center, and the Falcon health center. For Firelands campus this includes Firelands counseling and recovery services. Clergy and mental and medical health care providers are also confidential resources.

| ConfidentialResources | PhoneNumber | | --- | --- | | Wood CountyHospital (confidential) | 419-354-8900 | | BGSU Counseling Center (students only;confidential) | 419-372-2081 | | The Cocoon (confidential) | 419-373-1730ask for a campus victim advocate when youcall. | | The Cocoon(confidential) Falcon Health Center (confidential) | 419-372-2271 | | BGSU Employee Assistance Program (employees only;confidential) | 1-800-227-6007 | | Psychological Services Center (confidential) | 419-372-2540 |

| FirelandsCampus Specific Confidential Resources | Phone Number | | --- | --- | | Firelands Counseling and Recovery Services(confidential) | 1-800-342-1177 (ext.5177) | | Bayshore CounselingServices Sandusky Office (confidential) | 419-323-9156 and request intake office | | Family Health Services(confidential) | 419-502-2803 |

(b) Non-confidential resources

BGSU employees who are not confidential resources will seek to respect the privacy of all individuals. Reported information about prohibited conduct will be shared only with BGSU employees who need to know the information to assess, investigate, and resolve the report.

| Non-Confidential Resources | Phone Number | | --- | --- | | BGSU Police Department | 911 or 419-372-2346 | | Gender Violence Prevention and Education Services | 419-372-7227 | | Office of the Dean of Students | 419-372-2843 | | Office of Title IX | 419-372-8476 | | Wellness Connection | 419-372-WELL (9355) |

| FirelandsCampus Specific Non-Confidential Resources | Phone Number | | --- | --- | | Office of the Dean (Firelands) | 419-372-0623 | | Erie County Deputy (for Firelands campus) | 419-372-0709 or 911 |

(E) Reporting options, amnesty, and mandatory reporting

(1) BGSU strongly encourages prompt reporting of conduct that may violate this policy. Anyone may make a report, including a student, employee, visitor, or other third party. A person may choose to make a report to the university, to law enforcement, or to both. BGSU will make support and resources available to a person making a report no matter which option they choose.

(2) Amnesty

BGSU will not pursue a code of student conduct violation against any participant in an investigation under this policy, whose potential violation of BGSU policy on drug or alcohol use was identified during the investigation, provided that the drug or alcohol use did not (and does not) endanger the health or safety of another person. BGSU may, however, initiate an assessment, hold an educational discussion, or pursue other non-disciplinary options to address the drug or alcohol use.

(3) Reporting

(a) Reporting to law enforcement or the university (other than confidential reporting options) means that, as appropriate, the report will be shared with others.

(b) Reporting to law enforcement

(i) BGSU encourages anyone who experiences prohibited conduct to make a report to the BGSU police department. Prompt reporting enables law enforcement to collect and preserve evidence.

(ii) A person who wishes to pursue criminal action in addition to, or instead of, making a report to BGSU may contact law enforcement directly by calling:

(a) 911 (for emergencies);

(b) BGSU police department: (419) 372-2346 (non-emergencies);

(d) Wood county sheriff's office: (419) 354-9001 (non-emergencies);

(e) Ohio state highway patrol: (419) 352-2481 (non-emergencies);

(f) Erie county sheriff's department: (419) 625-7591 (non-emergencies at Firelands campus).

(iii) Upon request, BGSU staff will assist in making a report to law enforcement. For conduct occurring in the residence halls, the office of residence life can assist in making a report to the BGSU police department. For reports of off-campus prohibited conduct, the BGSU police department can assist in identifying which law enforcement agency should receive the report.

(i) An individual may make a report directly to the Title IX coordinator in 207 Hayes hall, by email to titleix@bgsu.edu, by regular mail, by telephone at (419) 372-7751, or in person at the office of Title IX. An online report form may be found on the BGSU website by visiting the Title IX or the equity and compliance web pages.

(ii) Designated BGSU staff, including the office of the dean of students, the office of residence life, the office of accessibility services, the office of multicultural affairs, the center for violence prevention and education, and the BGSU police department, will help individuals with reporting. For BGSU Firelands, the office of the dean will help individuals with reporting.

(d) Anonymous reports

(i) A person may report prohibited conduct to BGSU without disclosing one's name using the online reporting form found on the BGSU website. Although the report may be filed anonymously, the date and time of the incident must be included.

(ii) Depending on the circumstances, such as the unavailability of witnesses and the university's relationship to the respondent, BGSU's ability to investigate and remedy an anonymous report may be limited. BGSU will, however, take action as it deems appropriate and in the best interests of the overall university community, to the extent allowed by the available information.

(e) Mandatory reports

A "mandatory reporter" must immediately report any information about suspected prohibited conduct to the Title IX coordinator. A mandatory reporter who fails to make a timely report may be subject to appropriate discipline. Each of the following is considered a "mandatory reporter":

(i) Members of the board of trustees;

(ii) Executive officers (including associate or assistant vice presidents and vice provosts);

(iii) Cabinet members;

(iv) Deans, directors, and department chairs (including those serving in assistant or associate roles);

(v) Academic program coordinators;

(vi) Supervisors of administrative and classified staff;

(vii) BGSU faculty (full-time, part-time, and adjunct), graduate teaching instructors and graduate teaching assistants, and any other person providing instruction at BGSU (such as flight instructors);

(viii) Any BGSU employee or volunteer who serves as an advisor to a RSO, including but not limited to, fraternities and sororities;

(ix) All Tier 1 volunteers as defined as volunteers having significant or recurring interaction with students, as defined by the hosting department. Examples of Tier 1 volunteers include, but are not limited to, athletic team coaches, sport club coaches, and advisors, and student organization advisors.

(x) All full-time staff and graduate assistants working in the following divisions and offices:

(a) Division of community well-being except those working in the counseling center who are required by law to protect confidentiality;

(b) Division of student engagement and success;

(d) Office of student housing;

(e) Intercollegiate athletics;

(f) Office of human resources;

(g) Division of inclusion and belonging.

(xi) All student employees serving in roles as:

(a) Resident advisors;

(b) Orientation leaders;

(c) Student mentors and ambassadors in TRIO, Marvin center for student leadership and civic engagement, center for student connections and opportunity, and the Radbill center for life design.

(xii) All campus security authorities, as designated by BGSU under the Clery Act, who are not otherwise specified (as listed by title in the annual security and fire safety report);

(xiii) Any individual serving on an acting or interim basis in any position described in this policy; and

(xiv) University faculty, staff, or volunteers providing oversight to BGSU students while on domestic or international travel in connection with any BGSU sponsored teaching, research, or service activity.

(f) Training

All who fall under the category of "mandatory reporter" must attend and complete in-person or online trainings as defined by the university.

(g) All other employees

Employees who are not mandatory reporters are not required to report information about suspected prohibited conduct to the Title IX coordinator. It is difficult, however, to address prohibited conduct that has not been reported. Accordingly, employees who are not mandatory reporters (or confidential resources) are encouraged to ask the person who gave them the information for permission to share it with the Title IX coordinator.

(h) Exceptions

(i) Students who are not working in one of the offices identified in this paragraph;

(ii) Employees who are not supervisors and do not fall into any of the other categories such as advisor;

(iii) Professionals who are required by law to protect confidentiality (confidential resources); and

(iv) Vendor employees.

(i) Questions about "mandatory reporter" status should be directed to the office of general counsel at (419) 372-0464.

(F) Prohibited conduct

(1) Prohibited conduct includes the following acts: discrimination based on sex, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, retaliation, and violation of mutual restrictions on contact between the parties. This policy applies to prohibited conduct regardless of sex, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity or gender expression of the complainant or respondent.

(2) Suspected incidents of child abuse (including incidents of suspected child sex abuse) must be reported to children's services by calling the child abuse hotline at (419) 354-9669 or 1 (866) 860-4136. Contact the BGSU police department with any questions about matriculated students under the age of eighteen.

(3) Each act of prohibited conduct is specifically defined as follows:

(a) Sex discrimination

(i) The university prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex. Discrimination under this policy occurs when an adverse employment or education action is taken against a person and is based upon that person's sex, and the conduct does not fall within the definition of any other prohibited conduct. Some examples of conduct that may constitute sex discrimination include, but is not limited to:

(a) Denying a person access to an educational or employment program based on that person's sex;

(b) Preventing any person from using university facilities or services because of that person's sex; or

(ii) Sex discrimination may fall within this policy, the non-discrimination in employment and education policy, or both.

(b) Sexual harassment

Sexual harassment means conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of the following:

(i) A BGSU employee conditioning the provision of an aid, benefit, or service of BGSU on an individual's participation in unwelcome sexual conduct (quid pro quo sexual harassment);

(ii) Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to any BGSU education program or activity.

Sexual assault menas any sexual act directed against the complainant, without the consent of the complainant, including instances where the complainant is incapable of giving consent.

Sexual assault is a form of sexual harassment and includes the following:

(i) Rape: the penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the complainant.

(ii) Criminal sexual contact (fondling) includes:

(a) The intentional touching of the clothed or unclothed body parts of the complainant, without consent of the complainant, for the purpose of sexual degradation, sexual gratification, or sexual humiliation; or

(b) The forced touching by the complainant of any person's clothed or unclothed body parts, without consent of the complainant, for the purpose of sexual degradation, sexual gratification, or sexual humiliation.

(iii) Incest: nonforcible sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.

(iv) Statutory rape: noneforcible sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent.

These definitions are based on the uniform crime reporting system of the federal bureau of investigations. If there is any inconsistency or discrepancy between these definitions and those used by the FBI's uniform crime reporting system, the FBI's definition will control.

(d) Stalking

(i) Stalking is a form of sexual harassment. The term "stalking" means engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for the person's safety or the safety of others; or suffer substantial emotional distress.

(ii) For the purpose of this definition

(a) Course of conduct means two or more acts, including, but not limited to, acts in which the stalker directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any action, method device (including cyberstalking), or means follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about, a person, or interferes with a person's property.

(b) Reasonable person means a reasonable person under similar circumstances and with similar identities to the victim.

(c) Substantial emotional distress means significant mental suffering or anguish that may, but does not necessarily, require medical or other professional treatment or counseling.

(iii) Cyberstalking is a form of stalking that includes harassment via social media, email, text, or other forms of electronic communication.

(e) Dating violence

Dating violence is a form of sexual harassment. The term "dating violence" means violence committed by a person

(i) Who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and

(ii) Where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors: the length of the relationship; the type of relationship; the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.

(f) Domestic violence

Domestic violence is a form of sexual harassment. The term "domestic violence" means a felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed

(i) By a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim;

(ii) By a person with whom the victim shares a child in common;

(iii) By a person who is cohabitating with, or has cohabitated with, the victim as a spouse or intimate partner;

(iv) By a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction in which the crime of violence occurred; or

(v) By any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that person's acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction in which the crime of violence occurred.

(g) Retaliation

(i) No person may intimidate, threaten, coerce, or discriminate against any individual for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by Title IX or 34 CFR Part 106, or because the individual has made a report or complaint, testified, assisted, or participated or refused to participate in any manner in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing under this policy.

(ii) Intimidation, threats, coercion, or discrimination, including charges against an individual for code of conduct violations that do not involve sex discrimination or sexual harassment, but arise out of the same facts or circumstances as a report or complaint of sex discrimination, or a report or formal complaint of sexual harassment, for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by title IX or this 34 CFR Part 106, constitutes retaliation. The exercise of rights protected under the First Amendment does not constitute retaliation.

(iii) BGSU will keep confidential the identity of any individual who has made a report or complaint of sex discrimination, including any individual who has made a report or filed a formal complaint of sexual harassment, any complainant, any individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of sex discrimination, any respondent, and any witness, except as may be permitted by the FERPA statute (20 U.S.C. 1232g), FERPA regulations (34 CFR Part 99), as required by law, or to carry out the purposes of 34 CFR Part 106, including the conduct of any investigation, hearing, or judicial proceeding arising thereunder.

(iv) Retaliation is prohibited conduct. A formal complaint alleging retaliation may be filed according to this policy.

(h) Violation of supportive measures

Violation of or failure to comply with supportive measures including, but not limited to, mutual restrictions on contact between the parties. Violations of this paragraph may be referred to appropriate student or employee conduct processes for enforcement or added as collateral misconduct allegations to an ongoing complaint under this policy.

(G) Supportive measures

(1) Supportive measures are non-disciplinary, non-punitive individualized services offered as appropriate, as reasonably available, and without fee or charge to the complainant or the respondent before or after the filing of a formal complaint or where no formal complaint has been filed. Such measures are designed to restore or preserve equal access to BGSU's education programs or activities without unreasonably burdening the other party, including measures designed to protect the safety of all parties or BGSU's educational environment. BGSU provides supportive measures after the office of the dean of students or Title IX office receives notice of prohibited conduct but before any outcome has been decided. These measures typically are kept in place until the matter is resolved but may be extended when warranted.

(2) Supportive measures may include counseling, extensions of deadlines or other course-related adjustments, modifications of work or class schedules, campus escort services, mutual restrictions on contact between the parties, changes in work or housing locations, leaves of absence, increased security and monitoring of certain areas of the campus, and other similar measures.

(3) The Title IX coordinator or designee is responsible for coordinating the effective implementation of supportive measures. A complainant or respondent may meet with the Title IX coordinator to discuss the adequacy or need for supportive measures.

(4) BGSU will maintain as confidential any supportive measures provided to the complainant or respondent, to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality would not impair the ability of BGSU to provide the supportive measures.

(5) Implementation of supportive measures does not mean or suggest that BGSU has made any decision about the merits of the report.

(H) Emergency removal

(1) BGSU may remove a respondent from any BGSU education program or activity on an emergency basis, provided that BGSU first undertakes an individualized safety and risk analysis, determines that an immediate threat to the physical health or safety of any student or other individual arising from the allegations of sexual harassment justifies removal, and provides the respondent with notice and an opportunity to challenge the decision immediately following the removal.

(2) This paragraph does not limit BGSU's ability to suspend a respondent under section 3345.22 of the Revised Code or other applicable law.

(I) Administrative leave

BGSU may place a non-student employee respondent on administrative leave during the pendency of the university resolution procedure described in this Policy and any subsequent processes.

(J) Impartiality and training requirements

(1) The Title IX coordinator and deputy coordinators, decision-makers, investigators, and any person designated by a recipient to facilitate an informal resolution process, must not have a conflict of interest or bias for or against complainants or respondents generally or any individual complainant or respondent.

(2) The Title IX coordinator and deputy coordinators, decision-makers, investigators, and any person designated to facilitate an informal resolution process must receive training on: the definitions of sexual harassment and prohibited conduct in this policy and in 34 CFR 106.30; the scope of BGSU's education programs and activities; how to conduct an investigation and resolution process including hearings, appeals, and informal resolution processes, as applicable; and on how to serve impartially, including by avoiding prejudgment of the facts at issue, conflicts of interest, and bias.

(3) The materials used to train the Title IX coordinator and deputy coordinators, decision-makers, investigators, and any person designated by a recipient to facilitate an informal resolution process, must not rely on sex stereotypes and must promote impartial investigations and adjudications of formal complaints of sexual harassment and prohibited conduct.

(4) All decision-makers, including anyone who will serve as the chair of a hearing board, must receive training on any technology to be used at a live hearing and on issues of relevance of questions and evidence, including when questions and evidence about the complainant's sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior are not relevant.

(5) All investigators must receive training on issues of relevance to create an investigative report that fairly summarizes relevant evidence.

(K) Title IX sexual harassment grievance procedures

BGSU has adopted grievance procedures that provide for the prompt and equitable resolution of complaints made by students, employees, or other individuals who are participating or attempting to participate in its education program or activity, or by the Title IX coordinator, alleging any action that would be prohibited by Title IX or the Title IX regulations.

(L) Sanctions

A complete list of potential outcomes and sanctions for violations of prohibited conduct are found in the Title IX sexual harassment grievance procedures.

Last updated September 11, 2025 at 7:48 AM

History

Effective: September 11, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-49

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Bowling Green state university (BGSU) has zero tolerance for any form of hazing.

The university seeks to promote a safe environment in which members of our learning community may participate in experiences and activities without compromising their health, wellbeing, dignity, and/or rights. Hazing can cause irreparable harm to victims, victims' families, and the university community. From a legal perspective, hazing is a crime. From the university's perspective, hazing is a violation of policy and antithetical to the ideals and values of our learning community related to belonging and personal growth. Prevention of hazing is the responsibility of every member of the university community.

This document outlines the scope of the policy; defines key terms; prohibits hazing and related conduct; designates mandatory reporters; identifies mechanisms to report hazing; establishes how amnesty can be granted to reporters or those who seek medical assistance for themselves or others; describes the institutional response to reports of hazing; establishes corrective action and discipline for violating this policy; details how this policy is reviewed; and explains the process whereby individuals may obtain information about misconduct by student groups and student organizations.

(B) Policy scope

(1) This policy applies to BGSU students, student organizations, student groups, and employees. This policy also applies to volunteers acting in an official capacity who advise or coach student organizations and/or student groups and who have direct contact with students.

(2) This policy applies to hazing that takes place between two or more people who are affiliated with the university regardless if the conduct occurs on or off campus.

(3) The following factors do not prevent conduct from being considered a violation of this policy:

(a) Expressed or implied consent; or

(b) The conduct not being part of an official event or otherwise sanctioned or approved by a student organization or student group.

(4) Hazing does not include either of the following:

(a) Reasonable and customary organizational training, contests, competitions, or other activities that are explicitly relevant to the mission of the organization; and/or

(b) Lawful expressive activities that are protected under the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, Section 11 of Article I of the Ohio Constitution, or sections 3345.0211 to 3345.0214 of the Revised Code.

(5) In addition to this policy, National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) student athletes shall follow the policies and guidelines set forth by the NCAA, the affiliated conference, and BGSU athletics.

(1) Hazing means doing any of the following, or pressuring, causing, forcing, soliciting, or coercing any person to do any of the following, for the purpose of initiating, admitting, or affiliating an individual into or with a student group or student organization; continuing, reinstating, or enhancing an individual's membership or status in a student group or student organization; or perpetuating or furthering a tradition or ritual of a student group or student organization:

(a) Engage in any conduct prohibited by federal, state and/or municipal criminal law, regardless of whether an arrest is made, or criminal charges are brought;

(b) Take into their body any food, liquid (including alcohol), drug, or other substance that subjects the person to a substantial risk of mental or physical harm; and /or;

(c) Cause or create a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm to another and/or engage in any act or omission that contributes to the death of another.

(2) Hazing includes (but is not limited to) the following actions and situations, if they happen for the purpose defined in paragraph (C)(1) of this rule:

(a) Acts of a physical nature such as: beating, bondage, branding, calisthenics (e.g., wall-sits, sit-ups, push-ups), exposure to the elements, kicking, paddling, pushing, shoving, striking, tackling, throwing items at or on individuals, and/or whipping.

(b) Acts that may adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the individual such as: exclusion from social contact, kidnapping or abandonment, line-ups or berating, and/or sleep, food, or water deprivation.

(c) Activities that a reasonable person would view to be frightening, humiliating, intimidating, or deceptive (including deception intended to convince the individual of impending pain, injury, or non-initiation) such as: altering an individual's regular hygiene or grooming routine; blindfolding; having individuals yell when entering or departing a physical structure or in the presence of designated individuals; having individuals use designated entrances or exits and/or not permitting them to enter general use facilities or spaces; intentionally creating labor or clean-up work; not allowing individuals to wear certain garments or accessories; promoting servitude; requiring individuals to complete personal errands or purchase items for members; requiring individuals to wear apparel that is conspicuous or uncomfortable; and/or requiring individuals to wear scant clothing or to be nude.

(d) Participation in any act of a sexual or lewd nature.

(e) Activities that endanger or have the potential to endanger the academic performance or personal life of an individual (e.g., not allowing adequate time for or interfering with academic commitments, employment, or family obligations).

(f) Any destruction or removal of public or private property.

(g) Activities that violate university policies.

(3) "Student" means any person from the time they are admitted to the university up through the date of graduation. This term includes, but is not limited to:

(a) Newly admitted students who have attended orientation;

(b) Currently enrolled individuals, including dual-enrolled students; and/or;

(c) An individual who has been enrolled in classes at any time within the prior two semesters (i.e., summer, fall, or spring).

(4) "Student organization" means a group of people who are associated with each other and who have registered with the university as a student organization as outlined in university rule 3341-2-36 of the Administrative Code.

(5) "Student group" means a number of persons who are associated with the university and each other, but who have not registered, or are not required to register as a student organization (e.g., athletic teams, spirit groups, military organizations, honor societies, musical or theatrical ensembles, bands, or clubs).

(6) "Serious physical harm" includes, but is not limited to, any harm that involves disfigurement; protracted loss of use of or impairment of the function of a bodily part, organ, or mental faculty; substantial risk of death or emergency hospitalization; and/or unconsciousness.

(D) Prohibited conduct

The following behaviors are prohibited conduct and constitute a violation of this policy:

(1) Purposefully, knowingly, recklessly, or negligently hazing any person.

(2) Involvement in the planning of hazing and/or being present during hazing.

(3) Failing to intervene to prevent or stop hazing if the individual has knowledge of a planned hazing activity.

(4) Failing to assist or seek assistance if the individual knows or reasonably should know that another is in danger from effects of hazing.

(5) Knowingly making a false accusation of hazing.

(6) Failing to report any information about past, current, or planned prohibited conduct if required to do so in paragraph (E) of this rule.

(7) Failing to cooperate in an investigation of hazing, as defined as noncompliance with the conduct process as outlined in the code of student conduct, rule 3341-2-28 of the Administrative Code.

(8) Retaliating against or taking adverse action toward any reporting party and/or person participating in a hazing investigation or disciplinary proceeding.

(E) Mandatory reporters and reporting requirements

(1) Definition of mandatory reporter; required reporting

A "mandatory reporter" must immediately report any informaton about past, current, or planned hazing as defined in paragraph (C) of this rule to the university through any of the five reporting options outlined in paragraph (F) of this rule. A mandatory reporter who fails to make a timely report may be subject to appropriate discipline. Each of the following is considered a "mandatory reporter":

(a) Any full or part-time employee of the university (including student employees and graduate assistants);

(b) Any volunteer acting in an official capacity who advises or coaches student organizations and/or student groups and who have direct contact with students; or

(2) A mandatory reporter's obligation to report is not fulfilled with an anonymous report. In addition, reports made pursuant to this policy do not supersede or replace other reporting obligations. For instance, section 2903.31 of the Revised Code requires that all university employees and volunteers of any student organization, who are acting in an official and professional capacity, immediately report the knowledge of hazing to a law enforcement agency in the county in which the victim resides or in which the hazing is occurring or has occurred. Failure to do so may result in criminal liability.

(F) Reporting options

Beyond mandatory reporters, BGSU encourages anyone who experiences or has information about past, current, or planned hazing (e.g., student, family member, visitor, or other third party) to immediately make a report, even if done anonymously. Prompt reporting enables law enforcement to collect and preserve evidence and campus officials to gather timely and relevant information to aid in investigations. BGSU will act in the best interests of the overall university community, based upon the available information.

Reports may be made via the following methods:

(1) Law enforcement

(a) Dial 911 to report any emergency situations

(b) Dial (419) 372-2346 for nonemergency situations to speak with the BGSU police department. An officer will assist in identifying which law enforcement agency should receive the report if the incident occurred outside their jurisdiction.

(2) Hazing reporting line

(a) Call the hazing reporting line at (419) 372-HAZE (419-372-4293).

(b) This reporting line is staffed by the office of the dean of students and accepts calls twenty-four/seven.

(3) "See it. Hear it. Report it." website

Complete the hazing report form at http://bgsu.edu/reportit. This link is on the BGSU "See It. Hear It. Report It." website.

(4) In-person

Make a report in person at the office of the dean of students located in 303 University hall.

(5) Human resources

Violations by university employees should be reported directly to the office of human resources.

If a report is submitted to the BGSU Police Department, the hazing reporting line, the dean of students office, or human resources, the staff member who receives the report is required to submit this information via the hazing report form and should also encourage the reporter to complete the online form.

(G) Amnesty

(1) BGSU recognizes that individuals may be reluctant to report hazing activity due to a fear of potential consequences for their own conduct. Therefore, students who make a report under this policy or who participate in an investigation related to this policy will not be charged with other minor university policy violations that are brought to light in the course of the investigation that arose out of, or were committed as a direct result of, the incident(s) under investigation as long as those behaviors do not represent a threat to the health, safety, or wellbeing of others. For example, students required to consume alcohol as part of a hazing incident will not be charged with violations of university alcohol policies. The university may follow-up with those students related to those issues as appropriate in a non-disciplinary manner.

(2) In addition, a currently enrolled student who, in good faith, seeks or obtains medical assistance (e.g. by calling 9-1-1) for themselves or for another person for the overconsumption of alcohol or for a drug overdose, will not be charged with a violation of the code of student conduct in connection with the possession or consumption of alcohol or drugs as outlined in University policy and rule 3341-2-43 of the Administrative Code.

(H) Procedures for institutional response

(1) BGSU will always notify the appropriate law enforcement agency or agencies when a report of hazing is received and document that the notification was made.

(2) The university will determine if interim measures are needed to protect the safety and/or well-being of others. Imposition of interim measures will be as outlined in the code of student conduct.

(3) The dean of students, or designee, will initiate an investigation into all reports of hazing involving students, student groups, and student organizations in accordance with this policy and the code of student conduct. During the course of the investigation, students, student groups, and student organizations may request to enter information into the record and may recommend specific witnesses to the investigator(s). Ultimately, the investigator(s) will determine the relevance of information or witnesses. In completing the investigation, the investigator(s) may:

(a) Make contact (if possible) with the individual(s) who submitted the initial information.

(b) Make contact with the individual(s) alleged to have violated this policy. If the conduct involved a student organization, the investigator(s) will contact the presiding student leader and advisor of the entity under investigation.

(d) Request relevant information from members of the student group or student organization (e.g., text messages, screenshots, pictures, videos).

(e) Require members of the student group or student organization, or a select group of members, to meet with staff.

(f) Restrict communication between the student group or student organization members during the investigation.

(g) Request that students share other information that is deemed relevant.

(4) As outlined it the code of student conduct, students may be required to appear at conduct meetings. Students are not compelled to answer questions or provide information. If a student fails to participate in the conduct process, the university may proceed to resolve the matter. No adverse inference may be drawn against a student who does not participate in the conduct process.

(5) Students participating in an investigation process are expected to do so in an active, cooperative, and truthful manner. Falsifying, distorting, intentionally omitting, or misrepresenting information may be a violation of the code of student conduct.

(6) The university will make every effort to complete the initial investigation within a period of thirty days, barring extenuating circumstances. If the circumstances require more than thirty calendar days, the university will notify the student group or student organization representative(s) of the delay.

(7) Based on the information gathered during the investigation, a determination will be made by a conduct administrator whether the information presented warrants proceeding with an alleged violation(s) of this policy or the code of student conduct. Such alleged violation(s) will be resolved in accordance with the code of student conduct.

(I) Corrective actions and zero tolerance sanctions

(1) Violations of this policy by students and/or student organizations defined in paragraphs (C)(3) and (C)(4) of this rule will be sanctioned in accordance with the code of student conduct.

(2) Violations of this policy by student groups defined in paragraph (C)(5) of this rule will be sanctioned by the hazing prevention coordinator or designee in consultation with the divisional leader or designee who has oversight for the group and the dean of students or designee. The hazing prevention coordinator may convene a formal hearing panel to recommend sanctions.

(3) Expulsion or degree revocation will be the minimum conduct sanction assigned to any student organization or student for any violation of this policy that causes death, serious physical harm, or substantial risk of serious physical harm. This includes coerced consumption of alcohol or drugs of abuse that causes death, serious physical harm, or substantial risk of serious physical harm.

(4) Violations of this policy are subject to referral to appropriate law enforcement or university services, as well as to regional and inter/national affiliated offices of student organizations, for action and prosecution.

(5) Violations of this policy by employees may result in corrective action or discipline (including termination) in accordance with applicable university policies and procedures and/or collective bargaining agreements.

(J) Policy distribution and review

(1) This policy is posted on the website for the office of general counsel. Links to the policy, and for hazing prevention and education, will be posted on the website for the student handbook.

(2) The policy will be reviewed each year and updated as needed. The annual policy review will include an evaluation of any changes in legal requirements, existing university resources, and the cases reported and resolved during the preceding year.

(K) Reporting and transparency

The office of the dean of students will maintain a website that provides information concerning findings of hazing misconduct by students, student organizations and student groups for the previous five academic years. This website will include a brief description of the alleged misconduct, the outcome/finding concerning the alleged misconduct, and any corrective action or discipline taken.

Equity impact statement: the policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated May 10, 2024 at 8:07 AM

History

Effective: May 10, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-6-43

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Official university email accounts are required for all BGSU students. The official BGSU email address for all students will be in the form: username@bgsu.edu.

Undergraduate students receiving email at the official BGSU email address will have these messages automatically forwarded to their office 365 email box using their username@bgsu.edu address.

(B) Policy

At the time of admission or initial registration, all students are given a BGSU account. Students may anticipate that official university correspondence will come to them through this email account and should access this email account on a regular and timely basis.

Additionally, all students should recognize that their BGSU account is currently part of the authentication process used for accessing the MyBGSU portal. MyBGSU is an essential university tool used for administrative and academic correspondence. It is expected that students will be required to use this tool to access one or more administrative or academic services at the university, such as grade reports, class registration and class assignments/announcements.

(1) University use of email - Email is a mechanism for official communication within Bowling Green state university. The university expects that such communications will be received and read in a timely fashion. Official email communications are intended only to meet the academic and administrative needs of the campus community. As stewards of the process, information technology services is responsible for directing the use of official student email.

(2) Assignment of student email - A BGSU account registration web site is available to allow students to set up their BGSU account online. This page is located at http://www.bgsu.edu/newaccount.

Admitted students will receive an information packet that includes information necessary to create their BGSU account.

Students on the main campus can use the Web service or can register for an email account by bringing their official BGSU ID to the technology support center in 110 Hayes hall. Firelands students can register for an account online or by visiting the Main lab in 231 North and bringing their official BGSU ID. Accounts must be created before the university can correspond with its students using the official email accounts.

Official email addresses will be directory information unless a student requests otherwise.

(3) Expectations about student use of email - Students are expected to check their email on a frequent and consistent basis in order to recognize that certain communications may be time critical. "I didn't check my email," error in forwarding mail, or email returned to the university with "mailbox full" or "user unknown" are not acceptable excuses for missing official university communications via email. Additionally, no student should share his or her BGSU password with any other individual. Such sharing could facilitate violations of federal, state, and/or local laws and therefore is prohibited.

(4) Redirecting of email

Students who wish to have email redirected from their official university email address to another email address (e.g., @aol.com, @hotmail.com), may do so, but at their own risk. The university will not be responsible for the handling of email by outside vendors. Having email redirected does not absolve students from the responsibilities associated with the official communication sent to their BGSU account. In order to forward email, please contact the technology support center in 110 Hayes hall or by telephone at 419-372-0999.

(5) Authentication of confidential information - It is a violation of university policies, including the codes of student conduct to impersonate a university officer, faculty/staff member or student. To minimize this risk of fraud, some confidential information may be made available only through MyBGSU, which is password protected. In these cases, students will receive email correspondence directing them to MyBGSU, where they can access the confidential information only by authenticating. The confidential information will not be available in the email message. Again, because password protection is a key component of MyBGSU security, students should never share their passwords or other identifying information, except as requested by the university.

(6) Privacy - Users should exercise extreme caution in using email to communicate confidential or sensitive matters, and should not assume that email is private or confidential. It is especially important that users are careful to send messages only to the intended recipient(s). Particular care should be taken when using the "reply" command during email correspondence.

(7) Educational uses of email - Faculty will determine how electronic forms of communication (e.g., email) will be used in their classes, and will specify their requirements in the course syllabus. This "official student email policy" will ensure that all students will be able to comply with email based course requirements specified by faculty. Faculty can therefore make the assumption that students' official BGSU accounts are being assessed and faculty can use email for their classes accordingly.

(8) Enforcement and sanctions

Use of BGSU technology resources must be completed in compliance with the BGSU information technology policy (http://www.bgsu.edu/offices/cio/page52522.html). Any violations will be referred to the appropriate disciplinary authority for review.

Date: August 6, 2013

Last updated December 16, 2025 at 8:20 AM

History

Effective: March 17, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-43

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Student health, safety and well-being as well as the removal of barriers that might prevent the reporting of conduct that endangers persons or property are substantial university interests. The university's interest in promoting student health, safety, and well-being is furthered by encouraging students to seek and obtain prompt medical assistance if a person is in distress from the abuse of alcohol or other substances.

(B) Policy

(1) This policy applies only to disciplinary actions under the university's code of student conduct.

(2) At the discretion of a conduct administrator in the office of the dean of students, amnesty may be extended on a case-by-case basis for minor violations of the code of student conduct (e.g., possession or use of alcohol or drugs) to any student who, in good faith, seeks or obtains medical assistance (e.g., by calling 9-1-1) for another person or themselves.

(3) At the discretion of a conduct administrator in the office of the dean of students, amnesty may be extended on a case-by-case basis to any student who, in good faith, reports conduct by others that endangers persons or property as well as to students who participate in the conduct process related to such misconduct. The office of the dean of students may follow up with students related to those issues as appropriate in a non-disciplinary manner.

(4) This policy does not prevent the university from notifying students' parents/legal guardians about the incident per rule 3341-2-25 of the Administrative Code. The conduct administrator in the office of the dean of students may also impose conditions on amnesty, such as by requiring students to complete one or more educational interventions that include but are not limited to educational classes or assignments and community service hours.

(5) This policy does not preclude any disciplinary actions regarding major university violations such as endangering, threatening, or attempting to cause physical harm to another individual; sexual misconduct; relationship violence; damage to property; theft; and hazing.

If a representative of a recognized student organization or student group seeks medical assistance for another due to the overconsumption of alcohol or a drug overdose, that act will be considered as a mitigating factor in determining a sanction if the recognized student organization is found in violation of the code of student conduct in connection with the occurrence.

(D) Failure to comply with amnesty conditions

A student who fails to successfully satisfy all the conditions of amnesty, including any required educational interventions, may be referred for adjudication through the code of student conduct for the original incident.

(E) Appeal

A student who has been denied amnesty afforded by this policy may submit a written appeal regarding that decision to the dean of students or designee within five business days of the decision. The dean's decision shall be final.

Equity impact statement: the policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated June 6, 2024 at 9:48 AM

History

Effective: June 6, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-35 Recognized student organization allocation board policy.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The purpose is to articulate how recognized student organizations may request funding for programming and, operating expenses and/or travel, as well as how to appeal funding request decisions and apply for funding requirement exemptions.

(B) Policy

(1) Philosophy

The student organization allocation board (SOAB) policy aligns with the university's mission, vision, core values, and strategic plan. The policy outlines the process whereby the university allocates monetary and other resources to recognized student organizations (RSOs) so they can provide programs and activities that enhance the co-curricular education of the entire BGSU student body.

(2) SOAB membership

The SOAB is comprised of staff and student representatives appointed by the president, and vice president for student engagement and success, and/or their designee(s). The undergraduate student government (USG) and graduate student senate (GSS) are responsible for recommending the appointments of student board members.

(3) Guidelines

All requests must adhere to these requirements:

(a) The university's mission, vision, core values, and strategic plan will serve as the philosophical base when deciding the allocation of funds and resources.

(b) Funds and resources must be used to support programs and activities that are consistent with the RSO's mission.

(c) Funds and resources must be used to support programs and activities that are free to all students. RSOs may only charge students a fee to participate in a program or activity funded by the SOAB if they request and are granted approval when applying for funding. Any proceeds from these programs or activities (including but not limited to ticket sales, entry fees, participant fees and sponsorships) must be put toward the cost of the event or returned to the SOAB.

(d) Funds may not be used to support programs or activities for which academic credit is awarded.

(e) Funds and resources cannot be used for scholarships, grants, gifts, prizes, awards, donations, financial aid, legal services, sponsorship of elections, or items prohibited by state law and/or university policy.

(f) Funds may not be used to reimburse expenses incurred prior to receiving funding approval from the SOAB.

(g) All RSOs may be audited regularly by student engagement and residence life. The audits will be made available for the SOAB to review prior to the semester funding process.

(i) Spot audits may also occur as deemed necessary by student engagement and residence life.

(ii) If the audit indicates problems or irregularities, funds and resources may be frozen as deemed necessary by student engagement and residence life.

(h) All university-allocated funds will be swept from RSO accounts at the end of each semester. This does not apply to revenue funds and/or foundation account monies.

(i) RSOs must use funds and resources in accordance with all university policies and may be required to utilize preferred vendors and/or contracted suppliers when expending funds.

(j) RSOs that receive funding must reconcile all transactions within thirty days following the program/event, return from travel, and/or operational purchase. Failure to complete these steps may impact future eligibility for funding and/or resources.

(k) Funds must be used for the express purpose that they are allocated for unless the RSO submits and is approved for a budget modification in advance by SOAB.

(l) Any funds that are not used for their expressly approved purpose will be released from the organization's treasury and returned following the program/event, return from travel, and/or operational purchase.

(m) RSOs shall maintain all funds, including fundraising dollars, in their university account and are not permitted to have off-campus bank accounts. RSOs designated as social fraternity or sorority organizations are exempted from this requirement.

(4) Requests

RSOs may request funding and/or resources from the SOAB. Only RSOs that are in good standing with the university as well as whose presidents, treasurers, and advisors have completed their respective training(s) may receive funding and/or resources. These funds/resources are intended to support RSO programs and activities but not to fully fund organizations.

RSOs are not guaranteed funding or resources. Allocations for an organization will be based upon the SOAB's evaluation of the RSO's request, using a viewpoint neutral basis. Available funds and/or resources, and information gathered during financial consultations and/or audits, will also be a factor.

(a) Semester allocation process

The semester allocation process is only available to RSOs . The application process occurs in the spring semester to allocate funds that are available to expend the following July first through December thirty-first and in the fall semester to allocate funds that are available to expend the following January first through June thirtieth to student organizations that meet all requirements as stated in the allocation.

(b) Weekly allocation process

The weekly allocation process occurs throughout the academic year. This process is open to:

(i) RSOs at BGSU.

(ii) RSOs that received SOAB funding for programs and/or activities that incur additional unexpected costs that are not the result of fiscal irresponsibility.

(iii) RSOs initiatives that did not receive semester funding from the SOAB, provided that these funds are used in a manner consistent with the funding policy.

Programming/event funds are awarded to support programs/events that enhance the educational, cultural, and social experience of BGSU students. Activities must open for participation by the entire student body and must directly assist the organization in achieving its mission as it aligns with the university mission, vision, values, and strategic plan. Funding applications may be submitted as part of the semester allocation process or the weekly allocation process, but RSOs may not submit for the same program/event to both processes except as previously noted.

Programming/event funds may be utilized within the following limitations:

(i) One thousand dollars maximum for food per event, if the SOAB determines the food is a critical component to the event. All food must be purchased from BGSU dining.

(ii) RSOs may not apply to compensate their advisor or coach for services.

(d) Travel funds

Travel funds are awarded to support expenses that directly assist the organization in achieving its mission as it aligns with the university mission, vision, values, and strategic plan. Travel includes conferences, training sessions, competitions, and other off-campus events outside the city of Bowling Green, Ohio. Travel funds must be spent in compliance with the BGSU student travel policy.

Funding applications may be submitted as part of the semester allocation process or special allocation process, but organizations may not submit for the same expenses to both processes except as previously noted.

Travel funds to support participation in tournaments or competitions that require qualification may be requested only after the organization has qualified.

(i) Travel funds may only be used to cover the following costs in priority order:

(a) Registration and/or entry fees;

(b) Lodging; and

(c) Transportation note, some methods of transportation may require the use of university preferred vendors/contracted suppliers.

(ii) Travel funds cannot be used to cover the costs of:

(a) Food;

(b) Individual conference travel for students pursuing professional development;

(d) Mileage reimbursement.

(e) Operating funds

The SOAB makes available a limited amount of funds annually to organizations to support day-to-day expenses that directly assist the organization in achieving its mission.

Operating funds may be utilized within the following limitations:

(i) No funds may be used for salaries, stipends or wages.

(ii) No funds may be used for personal computer purchases.

(iii) No funds may be used for disposable or one-time-use materials.

(5) Exempted recognized student organizations

Undergraduate student government, university activities organization, and the graduate student senate are funded on an annual basis.

If an exempt organization wishes to carry forward unused funds into the next fiscal year, a written request must be submitted to the chair of the SOAB annually by June first. The request must outline the amount being requested for carry forward and how the funds will be utilized.

Decisions of the chair of the SOAB may be appealed to the director of student engagement and residence life or designee. The decision of the director or designee is final.

(6) Policy exemptions

RSOs may appeal to the director of student engagement and residence life, or designee, for exemption from specified parts of this policy if it prevents an organization from accomplishing its mission as it aligns with the university mission, vision, values, and strategic plan. An exemption request must be made in writing prior to submitting the associated funding application. The SOAB will review a funding application with a policy exemption only if the exemption has been granted in advance.

(7) Appeals

SOAB decisions may be appealed to the director of student engagement and residence life, or designee, and must be submitted in writing to the student engagement within five business days of the decision being sent to the organization.

Appeals will be reviewed by the director of student engagement and residence life, or designee, who can elect to:

(a) Return the application to the SOAB for additional review;

(b) Allocate funding and/or;

The decision of the director of student engagement and residence life, or designee, is final.

Last updated September 19, 2024 at 8:54 AM

History

Effective: September 19, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-38 Student travel.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The Bowling Green state university (BGSU) student travel policy is designed to ensure that university departments, recognized student organizations, student groups, and individual travelers adequately consider and plan for the safety issues associated with an event, activity, and/or class involving travel. This policy establishes guidelines for university sponsored travel involving students.

(B) Policy

(1) This policy applies to enrolled undergraduate and graduate student domestic and international travel to an event, activity, and/or class that occurs beyond fifty miles from the originating campus of departure (i.e., Bowling Green or Firelands) or that includes an overnight stay.

(2) This policy applies to all travel organized and/or sponsored by BGSU, whether required for academic credit or not, including trips that are:

(a) Organized or sponsored by recognized student organizations;

(b) Organized or sponsored by university departments;

(d) Fully or partially funded by, or in the name of, BGSU.

(3) This policy does not apply to trips that are:

(a) Regulated under NCAA rules and regulations concerning student athletics travel;

(b) Students completing flight hours as part of the aviation studies program;

(c) Travel undertaken by students to attend athletics and/or other events as spectators that is in no way coordinated by the university; and/or

(d) Domestic travel related to expectations for students engaged in student teaching, internships, practicums, co-ops, observations or research, unless the research/observation is organized by a university employee.

(1) The term "student" means all persons who are enrolled in classes, or otherwise entered into any other contractual relationship with the university to take instruction. This includes, but is not limited to all individuals (e.g., undergraduate and graduate) taking classes in person or through distance learning whether on a part-time or full- time basis.

(2) The term "recognized student organization" means a group of people who are associated with each other and who have registered with the university as a student organization as outlined in rule 3341-2-36 of the Administrative Code.

(3) The term "student group" means a number of persons who are associated with the university and each other, but who have not registered, or are not required to register as a student organization (e.g., athletic teams, spirit groups, military organizations, honor societies, musical or theatrical ensembles, bands, or clubs).

(4) The term "organized event" means an activity initiated or arranged by a BGSU employee or recognized student organization and that is approved by an appropriate administrator.

(5) The term "sponsored event" means an activity endorsed by BGSU through financial support or by sending students to participate as official representatives of the university.

(6) The term "domestic travel" means any trip or travel within any of the fifty states of the United States, the District of Columbia, as well as U.S. territories and possessions and Puerto Rico.

(7) The term "international travel" means any trip or travel that is not domestic travel.

(8) The term "overnight stay" means any trip where participants stay in lodging/accommodations.

(9) The term(s) "registration" and/or "registered" refer(s) to the electronic submission of required travel/trip information, which will be accessible to appropriate university representatives.

(10) For the purpose of this policy, the term "dual-enrolled students" means students who are earning college credit while attending high school, including college credit plus students.

(D) Requirements

(1) Domestic travel

(a) Travel must be consistent with the mission of the university, as well as the mission and goals of the sponsoring department or recognized student organization.

(b) Travel must be registered with the office of the dean of students at least two weeks prior to departure.

(c) Students must comply with standards set forth in the BGSU code of student conduct and other university policies and procedures, as well as all applicable laws.

(d) All travel methods must comply with university policies and procedures concerning vehicle use and driver approval as outlined on the risk management website.

(e) Travelers must complete the release, waiver, and agreement not to sue form as defined on the risk management website, when applicable, along with any other university or departmental requirements prior to departure.

(f) Faculty and staff as well as students acting in their official capacity as university employees shall not share overnight accommodations with student participants while traveling.

(g) Faculty and staff as well as students acting in their official capacity as university employees are strongly discouraged from consuming alcohol while traveling with student participants.

(h) Eligible travel reimbursements must follow university guidelines.

(i) Dual-enrolled students may not participate in recognized student organization travel.

(j) Dual-enrolled students may participate in day travel as part of an academic course but may not travel overnight.

(2) International travel

(a) Education abroad credit-bearing international travel must have prior approval from international programs and partnerships. Students must adhere to the education abroad pre-departure handbook.

(b) Recognized student organizations international non-credit travel must have prior approval from the office of student engagement.

(c) University-sponsored individual student international travel must be registered with the international travel registry on the international programs and partnerships website.

(E) Procedures

(1) Domestic travel registration submitted to the university, via the office of the dean of students website, must include the submission of this information:

(a) Departure time(s) and location(s) for each leg of the trip from the time of departure until the return to campus.

(b) Transportation plans, including airline, bus, and/or any other mode(s) of travel.

(d) A list of all trip participants, including names and BGSU ID numbers.

(e) Name and phone number for the trip organizer/responsible university employee(s).

(2) International travel

(a) Credit-bearing education abroad student travel must be coordinated through international programs and partnerships.

(b) Recognized student organization international non-credit travel must be coordinated through the office of student engagement.

(c) University-sponsored individual student international travel must be registered with the international travel registry on the international programs and partnerships website.

(F) Incident reporting

(1) Always seek emergency assistance (e.g., calling 911) first, if applicable. If an incident (e.g., accident/injury/illness or participant misconduct) takes place during travel, the incident must be promptly reported to the university. Contact the BGSU university police department at (419) 372- 2346 any time day or night to be connected with the appropriate university official(s). Some situations may necessitate that an individual remain onsite or that a university official travel to that location if a student experiences a critical incident that restricts travel (e.g., a medical emergency). Such determination will be made in consultation with appropriate university officials after the incident has been reported.

(2) If the incident involves conduct prohibited by the "Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy and Procedures" (rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code) or the "Anti-Hazing Policy" (rule 3341-2-49 of the Administrative Code), additional reporting is required in accordance with those policies.

(3) A determination will be made in consultation with appropriate university officials after an incident has been reported concerning whether a designated individual may need to respond onsite if a student experiences a critical incident (e.g., a medical emergency).

(G) Noncompliance

Failure to adhere to this policy may result in disciplinary action via the code of student conduct for students or in accordance with university policy, procedure, and/or collective bargaining agreement applicable to the university employee.

Equity impact statement: the policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated July 24, 2024 at 8:15 AM

History

Effective: July 24, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-60

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy provides general guidelines and rules for use of the university libraries.

(B) Policy

(1) General collection

The general collection should serve the needs of the Bowling Green state university community either through ownership of items, consortial agreements, or electronic access. Current, seminal, and classic materials are added to the collection based on curricular needs, regardless of format. All selection decisions should make the most effective use of budget resources for the greatest number of users according to the priorities established by this policy.

Subject collection development statements provide detail and guidance for purchasing decisions for the general collection.

(2) Statement of purpose

In keeping with the mission for collection development, these pages set forth criteria and policies to use when selecting materials for the university libraries' collection. This policy seeks to create a flexible framework for balancing abundant needs against scarce resources in a way that is both systematic and equitable as far as possible.

(3) Mission statement

To fulfill its part of the BGSU university libraries' mission, the collection development unit is charged with the building and preservation of effective, high-quality collections including electronic access to information. The unit will coordinate the selection and management of materials in electronic, print, and other formats to meet the current and long-term teaching, research, and administrative needs of the university community. Within the "OhioLINK" environment and in cooperation with other Ohio academic libraries, the collection development unit strives to optimize effective use of personnel and financial resources by balancing access and ownership considerations and by building on recognized collection strengths.

(4) Diversity

In keeping with Bowling Green state university's curricular emphasis on multiculturalism, the university libraries seek to provide materials representative of many cultures and ideas.

(5) Cooperative collection development

(a) Cooperation within "OhioLINK"

Cooperation among libraries delivers more information from a wider variety of sources than a single library can provide, permits better resource allocation, and leads to more intensive use of collections. Many resources are shared among Ohio colleges and universities via "OhioLINK's" online borrowing initiative. Electronic databases and other resources are made available to "OhioLINK" member institutions through consortium contracts. Collection development decisions regarding these shared electronic resources are made through the "OhioLINK" cooperative information resources management (CIRM) committee, on which the coordinator of collections represents the university libraries.

The university libraries also contribute holdings information to the "OhioLINK" central catalog, will work through the CIRM committee to identify areas of collection strength and fully participate in "OhioLINK" statewide cooperative collection development initiatives. In general, the university libraries avoid unnecessary duplication of materials available within "OhioLINK." Materials widely held within "OhioLINK" (six to eight or more copies) should receive careful evaluation before purchase. This evaluation should include consideration of the importance of the work for curricular support; the number of copies available within "OhioLINK" and the time of the academic year; and other local needs. Local purchase of items with large numbers of copies in "OhioLINK" is restricted to only highest priority items. Conversely, purchases of materials held in no or very few "OhioLINK" libraries will not only meet local needs, but will enhance the diversity of "OhioLINK" holdings.

(b) Cooperation with other libraries

An agreement between Bowling Green state university and the university of Toledo- health science campus governs materials purchases for the joint nursing program: Bowling Green state university provides materials supporting the general education component and the university of Toledo - health science campus supplies the specialized nursing materials.

The Bowling Green state university libraries support the free exchange of ideas and endeavor to build collections which include all points of view. At the same time, they neither approve nor endorse the views expressed in materials included in the collections. Where there is controversy or disagreement concerning the truth of particular ideas and issues of belief, the university libraries attempt to provide a wide selection of materials encompassing the major viewpoints.

The Bowling Green state university libraries subscribe to and comply with the American library association library code of ethics. Titles for the collection are selected on the basis of overall content. No item is excluded on the basis of the author's race, nationality, or political or religious views. That some patrons may find an item objectionable on moral, religious, political or other grounds does not restrict or determine selection.

The Bowling Green state university libraries do not accede to requests of individuals or groups seeking the removal from the collection of materials which have been chosen according to this collection development policy, nor do they yield to requests to add to the collection materials if their addition would contradict this collection development policy.

The coordinator of collections in consultation with the library administration responds to all questions concerning the propriety of specific materials in the Bowling Green state university libraries. Persons or groups desiring further dialogue or action are referred to the dean of university libraries and/or to the library advisory committee.

(6) Priorities

(a) Priorities for collection development are as follows:

(i) To support the curricular needs of undergraduate students

(ii) To support faculty teaching needs

(iii) To support graduate research in selected areas, based upon graduate programs

(iv) To support faculty research

(v) To support leisure reading and community needs beyond the university

(7) Note

Highly specialized materials are purchased very selectively. Electronic access, "OhioLINK" borrowing, interlibrary loan or document delivery should be relied upon to provide more specialized information needed by researchers.

(8) Core selection criteria

These are essential factors that should be considered for any addition to the collection. Additional criteria applicable to special formats are listed in the sections dealing with those formats.

Support of one or more collection development priorities, regardless of format.

(a) Value -- content, format, physical condition, and cost effectiveness (anticipated use versus cost).

(b) Collection level -- appropriateness of the subject content and intellectual level of material to the stated subject collection development level.

(d) Currency of information.

(e) Access -- availability from an external source through electronic access, interlibrary loan, "OhioLINK," document delivery, or another source.

(9) Languages collected

The university libraries collect materials primarily in the English language for the general collection. Translations of foreign language materials are normally preferred to the originals. There are three prominent exceptions:

(a) Literature, literary criticism, and materials relating to foreign cultures appropriate to language department curricula

(b) Selected major foreign newspapers and periodicals

(10) Collection levels

In each subject area represented in the university curriculum, collection development librarians select materials in appropriate formats to the depth needed to support the degree programs in place. The levels of collecting for each type of degree program follow; they are adapted from the WLN Conspectus. It should be understood that these levels represent an ideal that will be pursued to the extent that funds permit.

(a) Undergraduate:

This level provides resources adequate for imparting and maintaining knowledge about the basic or primary topics of a subject area. It includes a broad range of basic works in appropriate formats, classic retrospective materials, key journals on primary topics, selected journals and seminal works on secondary topics, access to appropriate machine-readable data files, and the reference tools and fundamental bibliographical apparatus pertaining to the subject. It supports to a lesser extent subjects that are taught but in which no degree is offered.

(b) Master's:

This level provides resources adequate for imparting and maintaining knowledge about primary and secondary topics of a subject area. It includes and/or provides access to a significant number of seminal works and journals on the primary and secondary topics in the field; a significant number of retrospective materials; a substantial collection of works by secondary figures; works that provide more in-depth discussions of research, techniques, and evaluation.

This level includes and/or provides access to the major published source materials required for dissertation and independent research, reporting new findings, scientific experimental results, and other information useful to researchers. It also includes and/or provides access to important reference works, to a wide selection of specialized monographs, to an extensive collection of journals, and to major indexing and abstracting services in the field. Crucial foreign language materials are included. Older material is retained if pertinent for historical research.

(11) Gifts

Gifts in kind are essential for enriching the quality and range of the university libraries' collections. This is most true when items are rare or unique. Bowling Green state university libraries welcomes and solicits such gifts when items support the teaching, research, and other collection needs of the university. Such materials are useful, enduring additions to its resources. These include books, manuscripts, sound recordings, and other objects.

However, in many cases, collection managers will not add materials to the holdings for a variety of reasons, which may include: duplication of existing titles, poor physical condition of the gift, or the materials do not fall under the collection scope of the library. Gifts not selected for the library may be sold or recycled for the benefit of the library.

BGSU libraries also accept funds for the purchase of items, which enhance existing collections and support BGSU instructional and research programs.

(12) Approval plan for monographs

The university libraries have an approval plan with a major vendor chiefly to supply materials for undergraduate curricular needs. The approval plan provides new monographs as quickly as possible, and gives selectors the advantage of reviewing the books first hand before making a decision.

Collection development librarians and vendor representatives have devised a subject profile, which specifies one of three levels of coverage for each subject included in the BGSU curriculum:

(a) Books are sent on approval for subjects that are central to the curriculum.

(b) Notification slips are sent to inform library faculty that books on less central subjects are available.

Subjects not covered by the curriculum or materials systematically acquired by other means are excluded entirely. The vendor ships books or notification slips on a weekly basis as determined by the profile.

Bowling Green state university libraries do not place "on approval" orders for material other than what is received on the approval plan, nor do they accept offers from a company or salesperson to send material "on approval." Exception is made on a case-by-case basis for expensive non-book materials, for which price may make an on-site review desirable before selection.

(13) Monographs

The university libraries have set up an approval plan to supply monographs, chiefly for undergraduate curricular needs. The approval plan is complemented by funds made available to departmental faculty to recommend materials for purchase; it is expected that these recommendations will reflect faculty and graduate-level research needs. Librarians will make further selections to fill in gaps.

(a) Selection guidelines for monographs

(i) Multiple copies

Only one copy of a title is normally purchased for the general collection; this does not preclude purchase of different editions of a title. Possible exceptions are:

(a) When few or no circulating copies are held by other "OhioLINK" libraries.

(b) A book is placed on reserve.

(d) A volume is received as a gift.

(ii) Paper/hard bound books

Paperbacks when available are supplied for the approval plan and are preferred for firm orders. Gifts may be added in either form. New paperback volumes that are oversized, more than two inches thick, or longer than tall are generally sent to the commercial binder for binding before circulating.

(iii) Textbooks

Textbooks are very selectively added to the general collection on the basis of currency, comprehensiveness, and when they provide the best or only treatment of a needed subject. Otherwise, textbooks, including accompanying manuals, workbooks, and other auxiliary materials, are normally not purchased for the general collection. Other books used as texts for specific courses may be added to the general collection, but are not systematically acquired.

(a) E-books textbooks

Normally the university libraries does not purchase textbooks. The only exception is for topics where information is not compiled in another book format, for instance, social sciences research methodology.

Acquisition (lease or purchase) of e-books for class-related student use may be made according to the following guidelines:

(i) Faculty should consider e-books for classroom support, that are already available from ebrary, "NetLibrary," or via the "OhioLINK" e-book center (e.g. Springer, Oxford titles)

(ii) E-books should be supplementary reading and not a primary required text for the course. Any supplementary texts should have a strong likelihood of use by some students. The libraries cannot meet the demand by all students for electronic books with regularly required reading assignments.

(iii) E-book purchases as for classroom support should be titles that the libraries normally might purchase, according to our collection development policy.

(iv) For new purchases, we will acquire e-books from vendors with whom we have established business relationships ("NetLibrary" and "E-brary") and whose e-books are readily accessible from the library catalog.

(v) The preferred access model is one that makes multiple simultaneous uses available at no additional cost. If multiple simultaneous use at no additional cost is not an option, we will purchase one copy (or one simultaneous user) of an e-book.

(vi) Faculty wishing to make a required text available should be encouraged to place a personal copy on reserve, or make selected chapters available, as permitted by US copyright law and fair use guidelines, via the e-reserve system.

(iv) Microforms

Materials are acquired in microformat either because of cost, for backup, or for preservation reasons. Fiche is generally the preferred format.

(v) Local authors

Books written by Bowling Green state university employees or alumni are added to the general collection as needed to support the curriculum. Archival copies of books by Bowling Green state university authors, primarily current faculty, are placed in the center for archival collections. Books by authors from the city of Bowling Green and surrounding area will be added to the collection as needed to support the curriculum.

(vi) Leisure reading

Bestsellers and other popular works are added to the collection as needed to support the curriculum.

(vii) Replacement

Missing or damaged books are replaced if the information they contain remains relevant to the curriculum and is of current or lasting value. An outdated book on a topic still relevant to the curriculum may be replaced with a newer edition of the same book or with a comparable up-to-date title. Details of the replacement policy are stated in the guidelines for the replacement of missing and damaged books.

(viii) Dissertations/theses

Dissertations abstracts international and other bibliographic indices provide indexing and abstracting of academic theses and dissertations. Non Bowling Green state university dissertations and theses are not actively collected, but may be purchased at the recommendation of a faculty member.

BGSU theses and dissertations are accessible at the "OhioLINK" ETD site (www.ohiolink.edu/etd). The center for archival collections preserves a microfilm security copy of creative writing theses which are not submitted to the ETD site.

(14) Materials not collected

The following types of material are not collected for the general collection. This statement does not preclude these types of material being collected by the appropriate special collection(s).

(a) Juvenile books

(b) Games or other realia

(d) Art works

(e) Posters

(f) Pamphlets

(g) Musical scores

(h) Musical recordings

(i) Maps

(j) Manuscripts

(k) Archival materials

(l) Serial genre fiction

(m) Photographs

(15) Serials

The serials collection provides materials for undergraduate and graduate student use and the specialized research resources for advanced graduate student and faculty use. The serials collection consists of journals accessible at the "OhioLINK" electronic journal center, locally-subscribed periodicals and standing orders, and open access electronic journals.

Because journals have traditionally been the primary vehicle of scholarly communication, they form a very prominent part of the general collection and absorb much of its budget. Unless the university libraries materials budget is sufficient to support new serial subscriptions, new subscriptions may be opened only if existing subscriptions of equivalent cost are cancelled.

(16) Selection criteria for journals

In addition to the core selection criteria, the following criteria should be considered in reviewing a new journal subscription.

Where possible, electronic access, or electronic access with print, should be preferred to print only. Subscriptions to print and electronic versions of the same title may be held. The print subscription should be cancelled when its use becomes low if we have determined that the publisher provides adequate archival access terms for the subscription period. The university Libraries will add electronic access to a print subscription for titles where the added cost for electronic access is less than one hundred dollars. If the added cost for e-access exceeds one hundred dollars and the materials budget cannot absorb the additional cost, subscriptions will need to be cancelled to cover the added cost.

Open access or other free electronic journals added to the library catalog should receive the same scrutiny as other journal subscriptions.

At this time, the university libraries do not attempt to archive electronic journals for future access, but rely upon other sites to provide access to journal archives. Perpetual access rights to subscribed content should be sought to allow for future archival access.

In addition to the core selection criteria, the following criteria should be considered in reviewing a new journal subscription:

(a) Determine whether print or electronic version is the version of record for the journal, or if content in both is equivalent.

(b) Inclusion of fulltext in and comprehensiveness of coverage by a database. In general, do not duplicate current, comprehensive fulltext database journal coverage with a local subscription.

(d) Perpetual electronic access rights to the subscribed content.

(e) Search engine available on the publisher web site and/or indexing available at Bowling Green state university.

(f) Fulltext of the journal available directly from the publisher web site.

(g) Back issues available to subscribers, preferably from the publisher web site.

(h) Software support necessary for journal access.

(i) Articles available in HTML and/or PDF.

(j) Reasonable cost, especially if print and electronic versions differ considerably in scope or coverage.

(k) Do not purchase a subscription to any ejournal that "OhioLINK" is negotiating for, or that "OhioLINK" has made available.

(17) Selection criteria for newspapers

The university libraries seek to provide electronic access to online versions of newspapers according to the following criteria:

(a) Selected major national newspapers which directly support teaching and research needs.

(b) Selective coverage of predominant regional and local newspapers.

(d) Major alternative press titles (e.g. the "Village Voice").

(e) International newspapers which support the curricular needs of the foreign language departments.

(f) International newspapers which allow students from abroad to keep informed of events in their homelands. In most cases, the university libraries subscribe to or accept gifts for only one newspaper from a given country.

Subscriptions to print newspapers are highly selective and limited to a few national, regional, and local newspapers.

(18) Electronic databases

Any Web-based, electronic, audio-visual, or multimedia resource format may be considered for inclusion in the general collection; these may be indexing and abstracting resources, reference materials, or fulltext or numeric databases. New products which enhance awareness of or accessibility to the university libraries' current holdings of journals, books, and other resources are given priority. The university Libraries do not duplicate access locally in any format to databases that are identical, similar, or equivalent to "OhioLINK" databases.

(19) Selection criteria for electronic resources

In addition to the core selection factors, the following criteria should be considered in reviewing a new electronic database:

(a) Comprehensiveness: scope, subject coverage, time span, frequency of updates.

(b) Functionality: Ease of use, quick load time; if Web site, well maintained.

(d) Preservation, storage, and archiving of data; stability of web-based resource.

(e) Anticipated number of users, based upon the specific courses that will be served.

(f) Special attention should be given to authority and currency.

(g) Type of access, e.g. web access with authenticated remote access, standalone workstation or specific IP address access only, access by a restricted number of simultaneous users vs. campus-wide access; local network, circulation from general stacks.

(20) Electronic, audio-visual, and multimedia materials

(a) Audio-visual

The university libraries selectively purchases audio-visual materials which meet the core selection criteria. Audio-visual materials are purchased from monograph funds. Collection development librarians must balance monograph purchases between books and audio-visual resources according to the needs of the discipline.

In general, DVDs are currently preferred, in the US format. So long as VHS equipment is available in the library or on campus, VHS tapes may be purchased if DVD is not available and if no copy is available via "OhioLINK."

Audio recordings are not purchased for the general collection. All audio recordings are housed in the music library and sound recordings archives.

University libraries purchase digital video from films for the humanities and sciences or ambrose video for the "OhioLINK" digital video center. If the video title is owned by an "OhioLINK" library, BGSU will purchase the digital rights for two hundred dollars. If the title is not owned in "OhioLINK," BGSU will purchase the title and the digital rights. The funds for the video itself will come from the monograph fund. In all cases, funds for obtaining "OhioLINK" digital rights will come from the "OhioLINK" digital video rights fund.

(b) Computer applications

The Bowling Green state university libraries do not purchase or maintain a collection of standard microcomputer applications such as word processing, database applications, or spreadsheets, etc. However, they may acquire college level computer-assisted instruction packages that support the university curriculum. These could include, but are not limited to, tutorials, simulations, drill and practice exercises.

The university libraries purchase books with accompanying material on machine-readable disk, audio cassette, or compact disk, where items fall within subject area collection development policies, regardless of the availability on campus of hardware for accessing them.

Books with accompanying disks or cassettes should be located in the collection appropriate to the subject content of the item and may be circulated based on regular loan policies for that collection. These items need not be placed on reserve, unless specifically requested by a professor for class use.

(21) Mediated online searching

This policy does not cover librarian-mediated online searching, whether conducted at the reference desk in answer to a reference query or as a fee-based search.

Date: February 2015

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:45 AM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-46 Clean air and smoking policy.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Bowling Green state university is dedicated to promoting a healthy and comfortable environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors. To meet this commitment, smoking and the use of electronic cigarettes is limited. Research shows tobacco use, in general, constitutes a significant health hazard. The policy is designed to educate the community and reduce exposure to secondhand smoke and to help reduce tobacco use among students, faculty and staff. This policy will be communicated to visitors and members of the BGSU community by appropriate signage located throughout campus. This policy will be reviewed as needed, and should not be construed as constraining academic research by the faculty into matters associated with smoking.

(B) Policy definitions

(1) Smoking: defined as inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted cigar, cigarette, pipe, or other lighted smoking device for burning tobacco or any other plant, per section 3794.01 of the Revised Code.

(2) Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette): defined as any electronic product or vaporizing device that delivers nicotine or any other substance to the person inhaling from the device to simulate smoking and that is likely to be offered to or purchased by consumers as an electronic cigarette (including vaping device), electronic cigar, electronic cigarillo, or electronic pipe, per division (A)(6)(a) of section 2927.02 of the Revised Code.

(3) Facilities owned or leased by Bowling Green state university and grounds of any property owned or leased by the university: includes all buildings owned or controlled by Bowling Green state university, shelters, indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, indoor and outdoor theatres, walkways, sidewalks, residence halls, and parking lots (unless otherwise designated).

(1) Clean air and smoking policy

Smoking is prohibited in all facilities owned or leased by Bowling Green state university and on the grounds of any property owned or leased by the university. Smoking is defined as inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted cigar, cigarette, pipe, or other lighted smoking device for burning tobacco or any other plant, per section 3794.01 of the Revised Code. In addition, smoking includes the use of any electronic product or vaporizing device that delivers nicotine or any other substance to the person inhaling from the device to simulate smoking. This includes all buildings owned or controlled by Bowling Green state university, shelters, indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, indoor and outdoor theatres, walkways, sidewalks, residence halls, and parking lots (unless otherwise designated). Smoking is prohibited on sidewalks that adjoin university property. Smoking is also prohibited in any vehicle or equipment owned, leased or operated by Bowling Green state university. Application of this policy to university owned detached single family residences shall be determined by university facilities at the time any such lease is executed.

This policy should not be construed as constraining academic research by the faculty into matters associated with smoking.

(2) Smoking areas

Bowling Green state university is committed to providing a healthy, comfortable and productive environment and offers several resources for smoking cessation. Recognizing the use of smoking products is a personal choice, Bowling Green state university has designated areas on campus where smoking is permitted. Designated areas will be marked with signs and include cigarette butt receptacles for disposal. Students, faculty, staff and visitors may choose to smoke in personally owned vehicles.

The following map designates where smoking is permitted.

(3) Responsibilities

All persons coming on to the campus and property of BGSU must comply with this policy. Persons observing a violation of this policy should, if feasible, and in a respectful and polite manner, inform the person about this policy by directing their attention to the appropriate signage. Continuing or repeated non-compliance with the policy should not be handled by individuals but should instead be reported to campus authorities including, when appropriate, the BGSU campus police.

(4) Cessation programs

Bowling Green state university actively promotes tobacco cessation and provides assistance to students, faculty, staff, as well as their benefit eligible spouse/domestic partners. Many services are provided at reduced or no cost. Anyone seeking assistance with tobacco cessation is encouraged to visit http://www.bgsu.edu/offices/sa/health/selfcarfe/page8836.html for campus and community resources.

(5) Violations

Students, faculty, and staff violating this policy may be subject to university action. Visitors who violate this policy may be denied access to Bowling Green state university campuses and may be subject to prosecution for trespass. Violations of this policy will be handled in accordance with procedures outlined in the code of student conduct and the BGSU employee common handbook.

(6) Implementation of policy

Members of the clean air and smoking policy development committee and the drug, alcohol, and sexual offenses coalition (DASO) will be creating a new implementation committee, charged with: creating a clean air promotional campaign; student, staff, and faculty programming; and, working with facilities for signage and relocation of cigarette butt receptacles. The new committee will seek representation from human resources, athletics, facilities, and the BG chamber of commerce, and a majority of the implementation work will be done throughout fall 2013, in preparation for the policy implementation in spring 2014.

(7) Related policies

No smoking policy, August 15, 1993; August 15, 1994

(a) Smoking shall be prohibited inside Founders quadrangle and all non-residential buildings, structures and vehicles owned or leased by Bowling Green state university, including those at the Firelands campus, effective August 15, 1993; and smoking shall also be prohibited inside all residence halls, including small group living units, owned or leased by Bowling Green state university, effective August 15, 1994; and as part of the general health promotion programs of the university, smoking cessation services for faculty, staff, and students will continue to be made available.

(b) Smoking cessation services can be found at the following locations:

(i) The wellness connection at the health center has smoking cessation services for students. Call 419-372-9355.

(ii) Employees can contact BGSU's employee assistance program for information on smoking cessation programs. The American lung association operates the tobacco quitline at 1-866-784-8937, and has an on- line program at www.lungusa.org (see quit smoking). You can also call 800-586-4872 for information on smoking cessation programs at various locations in northwest Ohio. Contact the wellness department, Wood county hospital, 950 West Wooster street, Bowling Green, Ohio 43402, 419-354-8900, for availability and cost of smoking cessation classes.

History

Effective: April 16, 2019
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-47 Accommodating student pregnancy.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Bowling Green state university prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, including pregnancy. The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance on accommodating pregnant students.

(B) Policy scope

This policy applies to all aspects of Bowling Green state university programs including, but not limited to, admissions, educational programs and activities, co-curricular activities, graduate assistantships, and student employment.

Non-discrimination in employment and education is covered by rule 3341-5-41 of the Administrative Code which is available at: https://www.bgsu.edu/content/dam/BGSU/general-counsel/documents/draft-non-discrimination.pdf.

(1) Reasonable accommodation

BGSU will take reasonable steps to provide pregnant students the opportunity to continue their education with support from faculty and staff. Reasonable academic accommodations will be made available to the extent practicable without lowering academic standards or requiring substantial program alteration. BGSU will work to make accommodations available in a timely manner once notified of the need.

(2) Procedure

If a student requires an academic accommodation in a course due to pregnancy, the student should request accommodations from the faculty member teaching the course. Other accommodations should be sought from the student's supervisor or other university official responsible for the student's program.

In situations such as clinical rotations, performances, labs, and group work, the university will work with the student to devise an alternative path to completion, if necessary and practicable. Students are encouraged to work with their faculty members and BGSU support systems, such as academic advisors, to devise a plan for how to best minimize the academic impact of their pregnancy and get back on track as efficiently as possible. The title IX coordinator or designee will assist with the plan development and implementation as needed.

If an agreement on accommodations cannot be reached between the student and the faculty, supervisor, or other responsible official, the matter shall be referred to the title IX coordinator. The title IX coordinator or designee, in consultation with the appropriate professionals and faculty, will determine what accommodations are necessary and appropriate, and will inform faculty and/or staff members of those accommodations.

(3) Confidentiality

Information about pregnant students' requests for and/or approval of accommodations will be shared with faculty and staff only to the extent necessary to provide the reasonable accommodation. Faculty and staff will regard all information associated with such requests as private and will not disclose this information unless necessary.

(4) Recordkeeping

Administrative responsibility for all accommodations lies with the title IX coordinator or designee, who will maintain all appropriate documentation related to the request for title IX accommodations.

(5) Further information

For a full understanding of reasonable accommodations for pregnancy or childbirth, limitations to the policy, and necessary information, please contact the office of title IX at 419-372-8476 or titleix@bgsu.edu.

Last updated August 31, 2026 at 7:51 AM

History

Effective: March 13, 2020
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-5-41

(A) Policy statement

All members of the university have the right to work and learn in a professional atmosphere that promotes equal employment and educational opportunities.

Bowling Green state university is committed to maintaining an employment and educational environment that is free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. The university prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of protected class: age (forty years of age or older), ancestry, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender identity and expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, marital status, military status, national origin, political affiliation, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic (including status as a parent during pregnancy and immediately after the birth of a child, status as a parent of a young child, and status as a foster parent as those terms are defined in Ohio law).

This policy and federal and state law prohibit retaliation against any person for asserting their legal rights to be free from discrimination or harassment, for reporting discrimination or harassment, or for participating in activities protected under this policy.

These prohibitions are made in accordance with applicable laws, which include, but are not limited to, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (as amended by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008); the Age Discrimination.

Act of 1975; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967; the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008; the Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974; Chapter 4112 of the Ohio Revised Code; and any applicable executive order.

BGSU encourages anyone who believes that they have been subjected to conduct that is in violation of BGSU policies and procedures to report their concerns so that the university has an opportunity to address prohibited conduct.

Please see paragraph (D) of this policy for reporting guidance.

(B) Policy scope and responsible administrators

(1) Scope of this policy; related policies

This policy applies to the conduct of faculty, staff, students, student organizations, volunteers, third-parties such as visitors, as well as contractors and vendors in the performance of their contracts with the university.

Sexual harassment is covered by rule 3341-5-38 of the Administrative Code.

Title IX sexual harassment and misconduct is covered by rule 3341-2-41 of the Administrative Code.

(2) Responsibility for compliance

The university must comply with federal and state anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, and equal opportunity laws.

The office of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination is charged with the primary responsibility of ensuring that the university's equal employment practices and the conduct of any person within the scope of this policy comply with federal, state, and local laws and university policies and procedures. If conduct by any person within the scope of this policy is alleged to be in violation of this policy the office of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination or designee will assess the complaint and determine the best course of action to address the concerns.

Conduct which violates this policy may also violate other university policies, including but not limited to the code of student conduct, Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy, Ethical Conduct and Professional Workplace Behavior. The office of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination may refer conduct to other university offices and departments in accordance with their own policies, procedures, and jurisdictional limits.

(D) Definitions

(1) Discrimination

Discrimination occurs when an adverse employment or education action is taken under university authority against a person and is based upon that person's protected class as listed in paragraph (A) of this policy.

(2) Harassment

For purposes of this policy, harassment is unwelcome verbal, non-verbal, or physical conduct directed toward a person that is based on the person's protected class. Harassment violates this policy when enduring it becomes a condition of continued employment or when it is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive that it unreasonably interferes with, denies, or limits that person's ability to participate in or benefit from a university education or employment program or activity and creates an objectively hostile environment.

Harassment does not include constitutionally-protected activity or conduct that serves a legitimate purpose.

(3) Protected class

Protected class is defined by federal law/executive order, federal regulations, state law/executive order, and university policies, including the protected classes referenced in this policy.

(4) Complainant

An individual alleged to have experienced discrimination, harassment, or retaliation in violation of this policy. In certain situations, the university may assume the role of the complainant.

(5) Respondent

The individual alleged to have engaged in discrimination, harassment, or retaliation in violation of one or more university policies.

(6) Retaliation

This policy and federal and state law prohibit retaliation against any person for asserting their legal rights or their rights under this policy to be free from discrimination or harassment, for reporting discrimination or harassment, or for participating in an investigation of discrimination or harassment. Retaliation also includes any adverse action taken against a person for requesting an accessibility accommodation or for their role in reporting discrimination or harassment, assisting a complainant, serving as a witness, or otherwise participating in an investigation. No agent of the university may harass, coerce, intimidate, or discriminate against an individual for filing a complaint or participating in the complaint resolution process. Any person within the scope of this policy who engages in retaliation is subject to a separate charge of retaliation under this policy.

(E) Reporting alleged violations

(1) Timeliness of report

Complaints are expected to be reported timely to assure proper handling of the complaint. It is recommended that complaints are filed within one hundred eighty calendar days of the last act of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation.

Complaints filed after one hundred eighty calendar days will require an additional explanation setting forth the reason the complaint was not filed earlier.

(2) How to report

A complaint can be made in person to the office of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination, in writing, or by completing a complaint form https://www.bgsu.edu/report-incident.html available on the university's website, which can be made anonymously.

(F) Overview of the procedures used

(1) Initial assessment

Upon receiving a complaint, the office of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination or designee will initially assess whether the facts alleged in the complaint, if taken as true, indicate a potential violation of this policy. If not, the university will dismiss the complaint and give the complainant written notice explaining the reasons for the dismissal and allowing the complainant ten calendar days to refile a complaint alleging additional facts. If the facts alleged in the refiled complaint still do not indicate a potential violation of this policy, the dismissal will be final.

Upon completion of the assessment of the complaint, if determined that facts alleged in the complaint, if taken as true, indicate a potential violation of this policy, the office of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination, in consultation with other appropriate departments and/or university leaders as needed, will determine the next course of action. These actions include informal and formal resolution processes.

(2) Timeframe

The university will endeavor to complete the review within sixty calendar days after the complaint was received by the office of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination or designee. This timeframe may be extended if circumstances warrant, such as university breaks, leaves of absences, if the complaint was referred for informal resolution, or if the nature of the complaint requires additional time to complete a fair and thorough investigation.

The investigation process is not a disciplinary procedure. The investigation is a neutral fact-finding process that serves to gather information and analyze facts compared to university policies and procedures and applicable local, state, and federal laws. However, the statements and information obtained during the investigation may be relied upon in a subsequent disciplinary procedure. University investigators do not make final decisions regarding the investigation, findings of responsibility, or remedial action.

(3) Advisors

The complainant and respondent may have one individual of their choice to serve as their advisor during this process. The advisor cannot be a witness and/or party to the investigation and cannot have a conflict of interest. The advisor must maintain confidentiality and may not impede or interfere with the investigatory meeting. If either a complainant or respondent is utilizing an advisor, the University requires at least forty-eight hours' notice be given to the investigator.

(4) Informal resolution process

The office of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination will determine if an informal resolution may be an appropriate measure to address the concerns presented in the complaint.

Informal resolution methods include, but are not limited to, informal inquiry, facilitated conversation, referral, and/or mediation.

(5) Investigation process

The office of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination or designee will conduct a thorough review of the allegations in a fair and impartial manner with due respect to all parties involved.

If an attempt to resolve an issue utilizing the informal resolution process is not successful or not an option, the director of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination or designee will initiate the investigation process and conduct a formal fact-finding investigation in collaboration with other departments as appropriate.

Interim measures may be issued in the discretion of the director of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination or their designee to promote the safety or well-being of those involved or the university community.

The university uses the preponderance of evidence or the "more likely than not" evidentiary standard to determine culpability and responsibility when resolving complaints under this policy.

The steps of the formal investigation process include the following:

Interviews will be scheduled with the complainant, witnesses, and other individuals as deemed appropriate.

Written notice will be sent to the respondent to schedule a meeting to discuss the allegations. The notice to the respondent will include a general description of the alleged violation that makes a good faith effort to balance the investigatory interests of the university with the respondent's interest in understanding the nature of the allegations, with the investigator retaining sole discretion in making this determination.

The complainant and the respondent can provide a written statement related to the complaint, the names of witnesses, and any documents or other information they deem relevant.

Other investigatory actions may be warranted and will be determined on a case-by-case basis by the university.

If the complainant or respondent chooses not to cooperate or respond to requests for information in a timely manner, the investigation will proceed without that party's information.

Any person who deliberately provides information that the person knows to be false during an investigation may be subject to disciplinary action.

(6) Report

Upon conclusion of the investigation, the director of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination or designee will report the findings to the appropriate decisional authority for any necessary further proceedings and final determination. The director of state and federal compliance and non-discrimination or designee will notify the complainant and the respondent whether a policy violation has occurred and that the final report has been submitted to the decisional authority to determine next steps. Each party may receive a copy of the report upon request. If the university determines a violation of this policy occurred, corrective action commensurate with the severity of the offense will be administered.

The absence of a finding of a policy violation does not preclude the decisional authority from making recommendations to enhance awareness of university values and to continue to maintain an employment and educational environment that is free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.

(7) Confidentiality

Information obtained during the investigation will remain as private as practicable. Complete confidentiality is not guaranteed as this information will be used to conduct the investigation, determine responsibility, take any remedial action if warranted, and comply with university policies and applicable laws.

(G) Recordkeeping

The university will maintain the written record of the investigation and all other appropriate documents in accordance with the records retention schedule. When a civil complaint is filed outside the university, information gathered during the internal investigation may be disclosed to the investigating agency. If a criminal matter related to the investigation occurs, the university will only provide information consistent with employees' Garrity rights.

If the decisional authority issues corrective action, a letter documenting the action will be included in the investigation file and the respondent 's personnel file and/or student record.

(H) Policy exceptions

Nothing in this policy detracts from any legal right of a parent or guardian to act on behalf of a student, subject to Family Educational Rights Protection Act (FERPA), including, but not limited to filing a formal complaint.

Pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 983, this policy does not apply to prohibit or effectively prevent either of the following:

(1) The establishment, maintenance, or operation of a unit of the senior reserve officer training corps at the university; or

(2) A student at the university from enrolling in a unit of the senior reserve officer training corps at another institution of higher education.

Last updated March 11, 2026 at 7:37 AM

History

Effective: March 11, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-48 Chosen Name Policy.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The purpose of this policy is to enable students, faculty, and staff to use a chosen name within specific university systems and processes. This policy is intended to cover the subset of individuals who have not yet or do not wish to legally change their name, therefore, utilization of this policy does not constitute a pledge on the part of the student or faculty or staff member to legally change their name.

(B) Policy

Students, faculty, and staff may select a chosen name other than their legal name to be used on certain university documents (specifically class rosters, BG1 cards, and diplomas). Chosen name here refers to a first name which is different than the legal first name.

(1) Students, faculty, and staff may designate a chosen name, and may elect to revert to their legal name, at any time.

(2) The documents will incorporate a chosen name indicator to signal that the first name displayed is not the same as the legal first name.

(3) There may be a fee waiver for the replacement of the BG1 card as determined by the university for good cause shown.

(4) The use of the chosen name for purposes of misrepresentation or other inappropriate purposes will be cause for removal of the chosen name and reversion to the legal name.

(5) The chosen name cannot appear on any university legal documents such as official transcripts and/or admission, employment, financial aid, medical, disciplinary, or law enforcement records.

(6) Listing a chosen name on identification will constitute an alias and therefore may need to be disclosed when undergoing a background check. BGSU will disclose the chosen name in compliance with any lawful request.

Students wishing to enter a chosen name will do so with the registrar. Faculty and staff wishing to enter a chosen name will do so with human resources. A chosen name may be denied for the following reasons (list not exhaustive):

(1) If the name may be used to avoid a legal obligation.

(2) If the name may misappropriate the identity of someone else or involve other fraud or misrepresentation.

(D) Caution regarding use of the BG1 card

Students, faculty, and staff should be aware that a BG1 card with a chosen name on it which is not also the card holder's legal name is a valid form of legal picture ID when one's legal name appears on the back of the card. Without one's legal name printed on the back of the card, representing it as legal ID to an office or law enforcement official would be to misrepresent one's legal identity.

(E) Additional information

For additional information, please visit www.bgsu.edu/diversity and www.bgsu.edu/lgbtq.

Equity impact statement: The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated June 1, 2021 at 8:57 AM

History

Effective: May 31, 2021
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-50 Community health requirements.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Our faculty, staff, and students are all members of the Bowling Green state university community. Being part of a public university for the public good means that each member has an obligation to protect personal health as well as the health of other members of the community. To reduce the risk of exposure to serious illness from infectious disease, each member has a vital role in limiting the spread of infectious diseases.

(B) Policy scope

This policy applies to all faculty, staff, students, and visitors of the university while present at any university location or function.

The president, or their designee, in consultation with the chief well-being officer, has the authority to establish specific health requirements for faculty, staff, students, and visitors appropriate to current community health risks as recommended by federal, state, and local health authorities. Each member of the BGSU community must comply with all specific health requirements promulgated under this policy that may be prescribed pursuant to an identified community health risk. The university will communicate via electronic mail to BGSU faculty, staff, and students all specific health requirements promulgated under this policy. All specific health requirements in effect will also be posted on the university policy website maintained by the office of general counsel at https://www.bgsu.edu/general-counsel/university-policies.html.

(D) Modification or rescission of specific health requirements

The president, or their designee, in consultation with the chief well-being officer, has authority to modify or rescind any previously established specific health requirements for faculty, staff, students, and visitors. The university will communicate any modifications or rescissions of all specific health requirements promulgated under this policy via electronic mail to BGSU faculty, staff, and students. Modifications and rescissions will also be noted on the university policy website maintained by the office of general counsel at https://www.bgsu.edu/general-counsel/university-policies.html.

(E) Action

Each person within the BGSU community must comply with all specific health requirements promulgated under this policy. Failure to comply with this policy and established requirements may result in disciplinary action under the code of student conduct or the applicable employee discipline process. Visitors failing to comply with the policy may be prohibited from remaining on or returning to campus.

(F) Equity impact statement

The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated November 17, 2023 at 7:44 AM

History

Effective: November 17, 2023
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-2-51 Involuntary Withdrawal Policy.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Bowling Green state university is committed to the safety, health, and well-being of the campus community. When a student's continued participation in university academic programs is impossible, impractical or creates an unreasonable risk of harm to themselves or others, involuntary withdrawal should be considered to allow the student the time to address any concerns or issues that led to the need for leave, with the possibility of returning when they are better able to achieve their educational goals.

(B) Policy

(1) Facilitated consideration of voluntary withdrawal

(a) The university recognizes that students may experience situations that significantly limit their ability to function successfully or safely in their role as students. Prior to beginning the involuntary withdrawal process, the dean of students (or their designee) should attempt to discuss alternative options with the student, including whether the student may consider voluntarily withdrawing from the university or taking a leave of absence. However, this shall not be a requirement, and the dean of students may, in their sole discretion, proceed directly under paragraph (B)(2) or (B)(3) of this policy.

(b) A student who decides to voluntarily withdraw from the university shall follow the procedures for withdrawal as identified in the withdrawal from the university - undergraduate policy (rule 3341-3-64 of the Administrative Code). Graduate students follow withdrawal procedures administered by the office of registration and records. Graduate students may also consider a leave of absence, which is distinct from withdrawal as defined in the leave of absence policy (rule 3341-3-15 of the Administrative Code).

(c) For purposes of this policy, "withdrawal from the university" refers to a student's withdrawal from all enrolled coursework for one or more academic terms and separation from the university for the applicable term(s). This policy does not govern withdrawal from individual courses or permanent withdrawal from an academic program.

(2) Involuntary withdrawal process

(a) The dean of students may involuntarily withdraw a student if any of the following circumstances exist:

(i) Student experiences situations that severely limit their ability to function successfully or safely in their role as students, including being unable or unwilling to carry out substantial self-care obligations.

(ii) Current medical knowledge and/or the best available objective evidence provides that there is a significant risk to the student's health or safety or the health or safety of others.

(iii) Student poses an actual risk to their own safety not based on speculation, stereotypes, or generalizations, and the student does not want to voluntarily withdraw.

(iv) Student's behavior severely disrupts the university environment.

Any member of the university community who has reason to believe that a student may meet any of the standards described in this paragraph should contact the dean of students. In the event of an emergency contact university police at 911.

(b) Before involuntarily withdrawing a student, the dean of students will initiate an individualized assessment of relevant and objective evidence. This assessment will be conducted by the committee of relevant campus partners which, depending on the circumstances, may include the director of accessibility services, members of the behavior intervention team, student care and support staff, university police, director of the counseling center, academic dean(s), residence life staff, and other individuals as may be appropriate in an individual matter (the "committee").

(c) The committee shall provide the student written notice that involuntary withdrawal is being considered. The notice shall include the reasons why involuntary withdrawal is being considered, outline the student's right to submit relevant information and documentation (including information from the student's treatment or healthcare provider(s)), and provide information on how the student may request accommodations.

(d) The committee shall review all relevant information and assess the nature, duration, and severity of the risk or disruption; the probability that the risk or disruption will actually occur; and whether reasonable modifications of policies, practices, or procedures will adequately mitigate the risk or disruption so as to eliminate the need for an involuntary withdrawal. The committee may then make recommendations to the dean of students, including but not limited to:

(i) The student be involuntarily withdrawn, with or without a date established for re-enrollment. The committee may also recommend conditions for readmission.

(ii) Continued enrollment conditioned on compliance with specific actions or restrictions (i.e., compliance with treatment plan or removal from residence hall).

(e) After receiving the recommendation, the dean of students shall provide the student the opportunity to meet to discuss the reasons for the proposed withdrawal, discuss this policy and alternative options (i.e., voluntary withdrawal), and review the relevant information.

(f) The dean of students shall issue a written decision. If the student is involuntarily withdrawn and/or conditions are imposed on their enrollment, the dean of students shall outline the reason for their decision and inform the student of their right to appeal the decision.

(g) A student may appeal the dean of student's decision, in writing, to the senior chief community and well-being officer within three class days of the date the decision was emailed to the student and state the ground(s) for appeal which are limited to a procedural error, new evidence, or an error in the interpretation of evidence. The senior chief community and well-being officer (or their designee) will review the appeal and all relevant information, consult with relevant campus partners (including the committee) and issue a written decision. The decision of the senior chief community and well-being officer is final.

(3) Interim action

(a) Depending on the nature and severity of the circumstances, the dean of students, when they have reasonable cause to believe the student poses a threat to the safety and/or well-being of themselves or others, may impose an interim action while the individualized assessment is ongoing; if significant disruption to normal operations of the university may occur; and/or when otherwise provided by law.

(b) Interim actions may include, but are not limited to interim suspension; no contact directives(s); restriction from specific classes, campus facilities, activities, or locations; change of housing assignment; restrictions from entering certain institutional property; requirement to secure a psychological or other relevant evaluation; cease and desist mandates; restriction from facilitating or participating in designated campus activities; other measures designed to promote the safety or well-being of the parties and BGSU community, etc.

(c) A student may challenge an interim action in writing to the dean of students within three class days of the imposition of the interim action

(d) Failure to comply with an interim action may result in a referral to the office of the dean of students and/or the BGSU police department or additional interim actions including interim suspension.

(1) A student who has been involuntarily withdrawn may request to return to the university within one year of their withdrawal, or the date identified in the dean of student's decision, whichever is later. The request should be made, in writing, to the dean of students at least thirty calendar days prior to the start of the term the student intends to return to, in order to provide time to review the student's request and determine eligibility for re-enrollment. The dean of students may require one or more of the following in determining whether to approve a request to return:

(a) Documentation from current, relevant healthcare providers supporting the student's ability to return and be successful at the university.

(b) A statement from the student describing their current understanding of the factors that led to the need for the leave, and the insights the student has gained from treatment and time away; and how the student plans to ensure a successful return to the university.

(c) A meeting with the student to review the student's plan for maintaining health and safety while at the university, including recommendations for ongoing treatment, reasonable accommodations, and campus support options, when applicable.

(d) Agreement to an individually created ongoing plan for a successful return to the university, created in consultation with the student and pursuant to review of the information and materials listed above, as applicable.

(2) The dean of students shall consider all relevant information in the student's request and issue a written decision. The dean of students may consult with university partners, including members of the committee, prior to reaching a decision.

(3) If the student's request is granted, the dean of students may establish specific requirements or conditions for reinstatement (e.g., consultation with the counseling center). The goal of such conditions is to prepare the student for a successful return to the university. Students who re-enroll must complete the standard process through the office of registration and records. If after re-enrolling, the student fails to meet any of the requirements or violates the conditions for reinstatement, the student would be subject to withdrawal under paragraph (B)(2) of this policy, or may be referred to the office of the dean of students for a violation of the code of student conduct.

(4) If the student's request is denied, the written notice shall specify the reasons and outline the student's right to appeal. A student may appeal the denial of their request, in writing, to the senior chief community and well-being officer within three class days of the date the decision was received. The senior chief community and well-being officer, will review the appeal and all relevant information and issue a written decision. The decision of the senior chief community and well-being officer is final.

(D) Effect of involuntary withdrawal

Involuntary withdrawal is not meant to be punitive. It is used when alternative processes are not feasible in order to provide students the opportunity to address issues and concerns with as little impact on their educational programing as possible. The normal policies and procedures for grades for students who withdraw during an academic semester or term will apply to students who are involuntary withdrawn.

BGSU will make reasonable efforts to refer the student to appropriate resources in order to minimize the effects of their withdrawal including to the office of the bursar regarding the financial effects of their withdrawal. International student who are present on a visa should contact international programs and partnerships.

Last updated June 24, 2026 at 7:49 AM

History

Effective: June 24, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-64

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated annually. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

A student who wishes to withdraw from the university in good standing must obtain the permission of the dean (or dean's designee) of the college in which the student is enrolled. A partial refund of fees may be possible; see office of the bursar. The following rules apply to these situations:

(1) A student who withdraws with permission from the university will have all courses from the semester withdrawn; the withdrawals will be recorded on the academic record as a grade of "W" with a date of withdrawal.

(2) A student who does not withdraw with permission from the university will receive a punitive grade (grade of F) in accordance with the undergraduate grading policy.

(3) Grades assigned through the academic honesty policy may not be withdrawn or dropped under any circumstances.

(4) Withdrawal from the university is only permitted before the last five days of the fifteen-week regular fall or spring sessions or before the last two days of any summer session or other non-fifteen week sessions within fall or spring semesters. The university will typically make a decision on a request to withdraw within two weeks after the request is made.

(5) Retroactive withdrawal (that is, a withdrawal granted after the permitted designated dates may be granted in extraordinary circumstances, such as if the student is unable to complete classes or contact the university to initiate a timely withdrawal. A student who suffers a hardship should carefully consider whether withdrawing from the university is an appropriate option. Students who complete the semester after suffering a hardship will not be granted a retroactive withdrawal. Furthermore, students will not be considered for a retroactive withdrawal if they have received a grade of Incomplete for the appealed semester as part of an agreement with the faculty member to complete the required work, as such an agreement is an appropriate means for providing flexibility in case of hardship. Retroactive withdrawal must be requested within one year from last day of classes for the semester for which a withdrawal is requested.

Most withdrawals from the university are initiated by the student. Students seeking a retroactive withdrawal must do so in writing to the college in which the student was enrolled during the semester being appealed. The college dean or dean's designee will be responsible for reviewing the request, and will make a decision within approximately two weeks.

Last updated November 13, 2025 at 7:39 AM

History

Effective: November 13, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-15

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes criteria for leave of absence for graduate students who anticipate being unable to make progress toward degree or certificate requirements for a period of time due to personal, health, active military duty, or other compelling reasons.

(B) Policy

Students may request an approved leave of absence from the university by submitting a request. Requests are reviewed by the graduate coordinator or designee in consultation with the graduate college. A leave of absence must be for a designated period of one or more semesters relative to the university calendar, with a maximum duration of three consecutive semesters (e.g., fall, spring, summer). In extenuating circumstances, students may request an extension of up to three additional semesters.

During an approved leave of absence, the time of the leave does not count against the six- or eight-year time limit for degree completion. Students are not permitted to use university services, enroll in BGSU courses, or fulfill any BGSU degree requirements. Students may not take a leave of absence for the purpose of transferring courses toward BGSU degree or certificate requirements.

Leave of absence and withdrawal are distinct processes. Students enrolled in courses must complete the withdrawal process, as an approved leave of absence does not affect registration status. Students are responsible for resolving all issues related to registration, financial support, federal financial aid, and any outstanding balances owed to the university. They should also consider the potential implications of a leave on matters such as immigration status, health insurance, and loan repayment. Leaves approved under this policy do not constitute a leave of absence for federal financial aid purposes.

Students on an approved leave must complete a reactivation request form at the end of the leave. If a student does not return to the graduate degree program within the approved period for which the leave was granted, the student will be considered as having withdrawn from the university and will need to complete the appropriate admission process if they later desire to return to the university.

For deployed military personnel, the graduate college will follow regulations for military leave of absence in accordance with section 3345.53 of the Revised Code. The time spent on a military leave will not be counted towards the total time-to-degree, and continuous registration will not be required. Additional accommodations for graduate students returning from active duty should be requested in writing to the graduate college.

Last updated March 13, 2025 at 7:40 AM

History

Effective: March 13, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Chapter 3341-3 Graduate and Under-Graduate Policies

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-01 Graduate Academic Progress, Probation, and Dismissal.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy outlines expectations for satisfactory academic progress in graduate programs. It also establishes the conditions under which a student may be placed on academic probation or dismissed from a graduate program.

(B) Policy

(1) Academic progress requirements

To remain in good standing and eligible to complete a graduate degree or certificate, students must meet all the following requirements:

(a) Maintain a minimum cumulative graduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 in their current graduate program.

(b) Uphold academic and professional integrity standards established by their program.

(c) Complete all non-course requirements, such as comprehensive and preliminary examinations, foreign language requirement, clinical or field experiences, thesis or dissertation milestones, or other program expectations, by established deadlines.

(d) Have no current disciplinary sanctions based on policies within the student handbook or program specific handbook.

(2) Evaluating academic progress

The following grade-related rules apply when evaluating academic progress:

(a) Although individual INC (incomplete) grades may be appropriate in some circumstances, more than one INC may indicate concerns regarding academic progress and thus will be considered in determining academic probation courses in which a D, F, or WF is earned cannot count toward degree or certificate requirements or minimum credit hours; however, these hours and grades are included in cumulative graduate GPA.

(b) Although a U (unsatisfactory) grade does not affect cumulative graduade GPA, the presence of a U may indicate concerns regarding academic standing and will be considered when evaluating overall academic progress.

(c) If a course is repeated, each grade earned is used in GPA calculations, except as permitted through the graduate college grade replacement and fresh start for graduate students policies.

(3) Academic status and evaluation

At the end of each term, after grades have been posted, the graduate college conducts reviews of graduate student records for graduate GPA and the presence of INC and U grades. Graduate programs and line colleges also review student progress and provide information to the graduate college regarding additional concerns such as professional behavior issues, inadequate progress toward milestones, or failure to meet program-specific requirements.

(a) When probation should occur

A student may be placed on academic probation when any of the following conditions occur:

(i) The student does not maintain the standards of academic or professional integrity expected in their program or discipline.

(ii) The student does not meet program expectations for academic progress, including failure to make progress toward required milestones or benchmarks.

(iii) The student has more than one unresolved INC grade, which may indicate concerns regarding academic progress.

(iv) The student has a cumulative graduate GPA below 3.0, a GPA below 3.0 in their current graduate program, or has received one or more grades of U in the current semester.

(b) Probation success plan

Students placed on probation are expected to work with their graduate program coordinator to develop a written success plan. The plan should:

(i) Identify the outcomes required to resolve the academic difficulty.

(ii) Be affirmed by both the student and the program coordinator, with signatures or documented electronic confirmation via BGSU email. Electronic confirmation must clearly indicate that both parties have reviewed and agreed to the success plan.

(iii) Be finalized within one month of the probation notification.

If a student fails to work with the graduate program coordinator to develop a written success plan, or fails to affirm the content of the success plan within one month of receiving the probation notification, the graduate program coordinator may finalize the success plan without the student's input, or may refer the student to the graduate college for dismissal.

Students on probation are not eligible for new scholarship or assistantship contracts unless an exception is requested by the program and approved by the graduate dean designee. Programs may discontinue funding when a student is placed on probation.

After one semester on probation, the program and the graduate college will jointly determine whether the student will:

(i) Be returned to good standing;

(ii) Continue probation with an updated written success plan;

(iii) Be dismissed from the graduate program.

(d) Dismissal

A student may be dismissed when the program and the graduate college determine that the student has little or no likelihood of successfully completing the program, if the student fails to maintain standards of academic or professional integrity expected in their program or discipline, or when the student continues to fail to meet academic progress requirements despite being placed on probation with a success plan.

(i) The decision to recommend dismissal is made jointly by the graduate program, after consultation with the graduate college.

(ii) The graduate college will notify the student in writing, and the registrar will record the dismissal on the student's official academic record.

Under the academic charter, dismissial is defined as an administrative withdrawal from the university for a period of less than one year. After this period, the student may apply for readmission on the same basis as any student entering from another institution and is subject to all regulations in effect at the time of dismissal (e.g., "academic warning"). See Acadmic Charter Part B, Section G. 2.f.1.b of the Academic Charter for additional information.

Last updated June 24, 2026 at 7:50 AM

History

Effective: June 24, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-02 Graduate Coursework for Advanced Undergraduate Students.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes the eligibility criteria and approval process for advanced undergraduate students to enroll in graduate-level coursework at BGSU and outlines the considitions under which graduate credit earned as an advanced undergraduate at BGSU may be applied toward a graduate degree or certificate.

(B) Policy

(1) Graduate courses for advanced undergraduates

Undergraduate students may apply for advanced undergraduate status to take graduate-level courses prior to earning a baccalaureate degree. This status is term-specific and must be approved prior to the first day of the term.

(a) Eligibility

(i) Student eligibility:

(a) Seventy-five semester hours of undergraduate work completed and a minimum culmulative GPA of 3.2, or

(b) Ninety semester hours of undergraduate work completed and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

(ii) Course eligibility:

Courses must be at the 5000- or 6000-level.

(b) Approval process

(i) The student must:

(a) Submit an application to the graduate college.

(b) Obtain approval from:

(i) The instuctor of the requested graduate course

(ii) The department chair/school director of the unit offering the course.

(iii) The graduate college

(ii) Courses added without prior graduate college approval will be dropped from the student's schedule.

(i) A student is eligible for a maximum of nine graduate credit hours as an advanced undergraduate.

(ii) If total registration exceeds eighteen credit hours, registration and records will consult with the student's line college for final approval.

(iii) The student is responsible for any excess credit hour fees.

(d) Additional limits

(i) Advanced undergraduate status does not guarantee admission to a graduate degree program.

(ii) Advanced undergraduates must apply separately for graduate program admission.

(iii) To earn both bachelor's and master's degrees, students must complete a minimum number of credit hours in alignment with state of Ohio regulations.

(iv) Graduate degrees or certificates cannot be awarded in the same semester as the bachelor's degree.

(2) Transfer of BGSU graduate credit taken as an advanced undergraduate

Students who are fully admitted to a graduate degree or certificate program may apply up to nine hours of graduate credit earned as a BGSU advanced undergraduate toward a BGSU graduate progam, provided the following conditions are met:

(a) Grades earned must be A or B.

(b) Program approval:

(i) Specific graduate programs may have additional limitations on the number of credits and eligible courses.

(ii) Students should refer to the specific graduate program description and consult with the graduate program coordinator to confirm applicability of courses and credits.

Last updated March 27, 2026 at 7:53 AM

History

Effective: March 27, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-03 Graduate appeals policy.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes the types of graduate student appeals, informal pre-appeal consultation, and formal appeal procedures.

(B) Policy

(1) Types of appeals

(a) This policy describes the types of appeals a graduate student may seek through the graduate college appeals process. All appeals must be based on new evidence or procedural error that is outcome determinative.

(i) Grade appeals of the final grade assigned for a graduate course;

(ii) Non-grade academic appeals including academic probation; results of qualifying examinations, comprehensive examinations, preliminary examinations/projects, thesis or dissertation defenses, or other culminating experiences; or program dismissal; and

(iii) Assistantship-related appeals including training, work assignments, or financial disputes involving graduate assistant contracts or tuition scholarships.

(b) This policy includes only the listed types of appeals. This policy does not apply to admission decisions; cases involving violations of the academic honesty policy; cases related to student conduct; cases related to sexual, racial, ethnic, religious, disability, and other forms of harassment and discrimination; cases related to financial aid; or cases related to residency status. Such cases are referred to the appropriate units on campus, such as graduate admissions, the office of accessibility services, the office of the dean of students, the office of equity and compliance, or the office of registration and records, to be assessed outside of this policy.

(2) Procedures

(a) Informal: pre-appeals consultation

(i) Prior to initiating a formal appeal, a student should engage in pre-appeals consultation with the appropriate individual or entity:

(a) Grade concern: consult with the instructor;

Consultation should occur after grades are posted in the student center. Faculty can post grades at the end of a session. Grades shall be posted no later than the Wednesday after the end of the semester.

(b) Non-grade academic concern: consult with the graduate program coordinator, line college designee, or original decision-making individual/committee/body;

(ii) In cases involving multiple academic or non-academic units, the student should contact the graduate college. The dean or designee will determine the appropriate individual or entity for pre-appeals consultation.

(b) Formal appeal procedures

(i) The graduate college dean or designee and department chair/school director should be included in all communications related to formal appeals. The formal appeals form will be routed to these units; however, any additional communication should include the aforementioned units.

(ii) Student initiates the appeal: first stage of the formal appeal

(a) If a resolution from the pre-appeal consultation is not reached, the first stage of the formal appeal is to complete the formal appeal form and include a letter to the appropriate party within five class days of the decision under appeal. Class days are defined as business days within the fall and spring semesters exclusive of breaks and holidays. (See paragraph (B)(4)(a) of this policy for timeline exceptions):

(i) A grade appeal should be addressed to the instructor;

(ii) A non-grade academic appeal should be addressed to the graduate program coordinator, line college designee, or original decision-making individual/committee/body;

(iii) An assistantship-related appeal should be addressed to the supervisor, graduate program coordinator, or line college designee.

(b) To ensure a comprehensive review, the student's formal appeal letter should clearly state the grounds for the appeal. The appeal letter should include the following information:

(i) The type of appeal being filed;

(ii) The grounds for the appeal (new evidence or procedural error that is outcome determinative);

(iii) The specific nature of the grievance and how it affected the student's academic performance or progress;

(iv) The date, outcome, and who was consulted during the pre-appeal consultation;

(v) All relevant information (excluding medical records) that supports the grounds for the appeal;

(vi) Any evidence to be considered during the appeal review; and

(vii) The student's desired outcome of the appeals process.

(iii) Response to the student: second stage of the formal appeal

A written response from the recipient who reviewed the first stage of the formal appeal should be sent in writing to the student, the graduate college, and the department chair/school director within five class days after receiving the student's appeal letter. This response should propose a means of redressing the grievance or provide specific reasons why the grievance is without merit or cannot be redressed.

(iv) Continuing the appeal: third stage of the formal appeal

(a) If the student wishes to continue the appeal to the graduate college, it is their responsibility to submit a letter addressing the information in the written response from the original decision-making individual/committee/body and forward the appeal to the graduate college and department chair/school director with all relevant documents within five class days of the response from the previous stage. The letter should include a detailed response and any additional evidence to be considered during the appeal review. Neither the basis for the appeal nor the desired outcome can change at this stage.

(b) If the student does not submit a letter responding to the reviewers of the second stage within five class days, the appeal will be closed.

(v) Graduate college review: fourth stage of the formal appeal

(a) All appeals that reach the graduate college will receive a final letter from the dean of the graduate college or designee.

(b) Two assistant or associate deans from outside of the student's line college will determine if the criteria for an appeal are met (see paragraph (B)(1)(a) of this policy) within three class days. If one or more criteria are met, a graduate college appeal hearing will be held.

(i) The members of the appeal hearing committee shall have had no material conflicts of interest with parties involved in the appeal. They must all be from outside the student's program.

(ii) The committee is comprised of the following members:

(A) An assistant or associate dean from outside the student's line college (serving as committee chair);

(B) A graduate student in good academic standing (in the case of a doctoral student's appeal, a reasonable effort will be made to have a doctoral student serve on the committee);

(D) A representative of the office of student employment services (assistantship-related appeal only).

(iii) If it is necessary for the graduate college to change committee membership, all parties will be notified as early as possible.

(d) Appeal hearing procedures

(i) The hearing by the appointed appeal committee shall be conducted in closed session with only members of the committee and invited or approved persons present.

(ii) Both the student and the responding party may be accompanied by an advisor of their choosing during the hearing. These advisors are not permitted to participate directly in the hearing or speak for the student or responding party. If an advisor is invited, the graduate college must be notified, and contact information must be shared prior to the hearing.

(iii) An audio or video recording will be made of the appeal hearing and a summary will be prepared by personnel from the graduate college. The recording and summary are university property and shall be education records of the student. Copies of the summary will be distributed to the appropriate parties concerned and be kept on file by the graduate college.

(iv) Both the student and the responding party have the right to present and question information at the hearing. The committee's final recommendation is to be based only on information provided prior to the hearing and information presented at the hearing.

(v) Student education records discussed or shared leading up to and during the appeals hearing are confidential and protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This information should not be disclosed to individuals who do not have a legitimate educational interest or a need to know.

(vi) If the student or responding party fails to attend the hearing, the hearing will be held in their absence. A hearing will only be rescheduled based on compelling extenuating circumstances.

(vii) Committee deliberations are not recorded.

(viii) The appeal committee will make a decision and the chair of the committee shall provide a written recommendation to the graduate college dean or designee immediately following the hearing.

(e) Appeal hearing due process rights

(i) The student and the responding party will both have the right to:

(A) Receive official notice of the time and place of the hearing;

(B) Supply evidence to be reviewed at the hearing;

(D) Question evidence at the hearing;

(E) Be accompanied by an advisor; and

(F) Receive notice of the recommendation made by the committee.

(vi) Graduate college final letter

The graduate college dean or designee will review the responses from each level of review. They may also contact the student, original decision-maker, or appeal hearing committee with clarifying questions and request additional evidence as needed. The graduate college dean or designee will convey the final recommendation in writing to the appropriate parties within five class days of the appeal hearing or determination of the assistant/associate deans that a hearing is not warranted.

(3) Appeal review outcome

(a) For grade appeals and non-grade academic appeals, the graduate college conducts a comprehensive appeal review and provides recommendations. While the ultimate decision rests with the original individual/committee/body, the graduate dean or designee assumes a central and influential role, providing decisive direction and insightful contributions that significantly shape the decision-making process.

Within five class days of the graduate college final letter, the original individual/committee/body will provide a written response to the student, the graduate college, and the department chair/school director with the final decision. If the final decision differs from the graduate college final letter, a rationale will be described in the written response.

(b) For assistantship-related appeals, the graduate college retains the right of final decision.

(4) Timeline exceptions

(a) Prompt resolution of appeals is in the best interest of all parties. However, there may be situations (such as during the summer semester, breaks, and holidays) where exceptions are warranted. All timeline exceptions require approval of the graduate college dean or designee. Upon approval, all appropriate parties will be informed.

(b) Expedited timelines may be required by accelerated clinical programs. Procedures must be communicated in program handbooks and require the approval of the graduate college.

(5) Non-retaliation

This policy prohibits retaliation against any person for asserting their rights under this policy, or against any person participating in activities protected under this policy. No agent of the university may harass, coerce, intimidate, or discriminate against an individual for initiating this process or for participating in this process. Any person within the scope of this policy who engages in retaliation is subject to a charge of retaliation, which will be investigated separately. (See university policy 3341-5-51: non-discrimination in employment and education rule 3341-5-51 of the Administrative Code.

(C) Equity impact statement: The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated April 15, 2024 at 8:33 AM

History

Effective: April 15, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-04 Background checks-graduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes criteria and procedures for background checks.

In April 2011 BGSU approved a university-wide policy requiring a background investigation for all newly hired or rehired staff including graduate assistants. The purpose of this policy is to enhance the safety and security of BGSU students, faculty, staff, and others, and to safeguard university property and resources.

The policy is in effect for all graduate assistant contracts (stipends) issued after September 1, 2012. International students and students enrolled in a program with a pre-approved background check policy are exempt.

For graduate assistants with stipends who re-hired after a break in employment of twelve months or more from the end of the most recent period of employment, a background check will be required.

(B) Policy

The university has contracted with "PreTrax," a nation-wide professional firm specializing in background searches and investigations, to conduct these checks. The criminal background investigation will be performed as part of the hiring process to verify that the prospective graduate assistant does not have a pending charge, arrest, or criminal record that may make their employment a risk to the university. The university is responsible for covering the cost of the background check.

(1) The basic background check authorized for graduate assistant candidates includes:

(a) Social security address verification

(b) County criminal felony and misdemeanor search based on the past seven year address history:

(i) Up to five counties/municipal courts searched;

(ii) Additional searches at a la carte pricing;

(iii) Some counties charge an access fee.

(i) Includes the department of corrections, FBI terrorist watch list, federal/state/local wanted fugitive list, multi state sex offender registry, Interpol most wanted

(d) Federal district criminal search (Up to three searches included additional searches at a la carte pricing)

(2) Notification to graduate assistant candidates

All graduate students issued contracts shall be notified at the time of their contract offer of the requirement to successfully pass the background investigation. The notification will be included in the statement of understanding that accompanies all contract offers.

The background check will not be initiated until the student has signed the contract electronically and accepted the terms of the statement of understanding.

(3) Procedures

The statement of understanding that accompanies all graduate assistant contract offers will be updated to include the following information:

Graduate assistants are required to authorize and pass a background investigation prior to the start of employment. Offers of employment are conditional until a background investigation has been successfully completed and all other pre-employment requirements are satisfied. The university reserves the right to determine and confirm suitability for employment and to end any employment already begun if the background check reveals disqualifying information.

Note that a past criminal conviction identified during a background check does not automatically cancel the contract offer. Candidates will be given the opportunity to provide additional information, to explain the nature and circumstances of the conviction, and any evidence of rehabilitation. In determining suitability for employment, consideration will be given to factors that include: the specific duties of the graduate assistantship position; the number of offenses and circumstances of each; date of conviction; and whether the conviction rose out of employment. If you have any concerns or would like to have a confidential discussion regarding your situation please contact the graduate college office at BGSU (419) 372-2791 and request to speak to the dean or associate dean of the graduate college.

If this is your first assistantship contract you will receive an e-mail notification from "PreTrax," the company BGSU uses to conduct background investigations. Please complete the information requested in the email message and respond to PreTrax within five business days. Failure to complete the background investigation process will disqualify you from employment with Bowling Green state university. You should receive the "PreTrax" e-mail one to five business days after you sign your contract. (If you have not received this email, please be sure it was not filtered as junk mail.)

Please note that international students offered a graduate assistant contract who have visas issued by the U.S. state department in the department of homeland security and students who are already required to complete a background investigation as part of their program's admissions process will not be required to complete an additional background investigation by "PreTrax."

(4) Particular steps in the background check process:

(a) After graduate assistant stipend contracts have been issued, a staff member in the student employment services office will monitor signed assistantship contracts and identify the new GAs who have been identified by their department as requiring background checks.

(b) Student employment services office will notify "PreTrax" of the students who require background checks by entering their name, telephone number, and e-mail address in the "PreTrax" website.

(d) The graduate assistant candidate completes and submits an electronic consumer disclosure authorization form to "PreTrax" within five days. Refusal to submit the form will result in a withdrawal of the contract offer. (Every effort will be made to contact a student who does not respond within this time frame.)

(e) "PreTrax" completes the background check.

(f) Student employment services office reviews the background check reports on the "PreTrax" website and records successfully completed checks. All background checks that identify criminal activity will be referred to the graduate dean/designee for their review.

(g) Student employment services office will also monitor the reports on the "PreTrax" website and be able to see if students have not responded to the e-mail from "PreTrax" to initiate their background check. Follow up e-mails will be sent to these students.

(h) Graduate assistants may not begin work and their contract/payroll data will not be entered in "PeopleSoft"/payroll until the background check is successfully completed.

(i) If criminal activity is found in a background check, the following procedures will be followed (see investigation results and actions).

Student employment services may be reached via email at: stuemp@bgsu.edu, or phone at: 419-372-2865.

(5) Investigation result and actions

(a) Post background check decision

All background checks that identify criminal conviction will be referred to the graduate dean/designee for their review. If a background investigation reveals criminal activity, the dean/designee will consult with the chair/graduate coordinator or the director of the employing office. Together, they will determine the appropriateness of the student's employment.

If necessary, at the graduate dean/designee's discretion, the results of the background check may also be provided to the director of public safety or the office of general counsel to determine the appropriateness of the graduate assistant employment offer. The graduate dean may consult with other senior university executives as warranted, including the president. The graduate dean/designee will notify the specific graduate program and/or the director of the employing office (if it is different from the graduate program) and the graduate assistant candidate of adverse decisions.

Apart from the persons designated in this section the details of the investigation results will not be provided to any other persons.

(b) Pre-adverse action notice from "PreTrax"

If it is determined that the background check contains potentially disqualifying information the graduate dean/designee will notify "PreTrax" to proceed with a pre-adverse action notice. The pre-adverse action notice informs the candidate of the basis for disqualification, includes a copy of the report, and explains the candidate's rights under the fair credit reporting act (FCRA) to appeal. The candidate has the opportunity to provide a written account of the pertinent event(s) and to dispute inaccurate information to PreTrax in accordance with applicable law. If the candidate provides information that is determined to remove or clarify the disqualifying information, the background check will be recorded as completed and satisfactory by "PreTrax" to the university.

If the candidate does not respond within five business days, or if the response does not provide satisfactory evidence to record that the background check is successfully completed, the university may withdraw the offer of employment.

If the university takes adverse action, "PreTrax" will send an adverse action notice to the candidate.

Candidates denied employment as a graduate assistant based on prior criminal activity may still be admitted and register for classes, provided the graduate dean, the director of public safety and general counsel agree that the student is not viewed as a risk to the university community.

(d) Evaluating suitability for employment

In determining the withdrawal of the graduate assistant employment offer where there is a record of criminal conviction, consideration will be given to factors including: the specific duties of the position; number of offenses and circumstance of each; date of conviction; whether the conviction arose out of employment; the accuracy of the explanation of the nature and circumstances of the conviction by the applicant; the applicant's explanation of events, if any; and probation or parole status.

(e) Contract offer

No graduate assistant should begin his/her contract until a satisfactory background investigation has been completed. Any contract offer shall be considered conditional until a background investigation has been completed and all other pre-employment requirements have been satisfied. Even if, prior to completion of a satisfactory criminal background check, employment is commenced in derogation of this policy, the university reserves the right to determine and confirm the employee's suitability for employment and to end any employment already begun if the background check reveals disqualifying information. In the end, a student may not work without a contract and a contract is not finalized until a background check has been successfully completed.

(6) Record retention

Background check results will not be part of the student file in OnBase. Background investigation results initiated through "PreTrax" are stored with "PreTrax," located in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. The data is retained as long as BGSU has an account with "PreTrax." If the account with "PreTrax" is terminated, the data will be transferred to a portable storage device for BGSU use.

Background checks collected by departments as part of the admissions process will be retained in the department in accordance with their approved records retention schedule.

November 1st, 2013

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:24 AM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-05 Credit Transfer - Graduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy outlines the conditions and limitations under which graduate credit may be transferred into BGSU graduate programs.

(B) Policy

Graduate coursework completed at accredited institutions, as well as coursework from institutions with comparably high academic standards deemed appropriate by the academic program and graduate college, may be considered for applicaiton toward BGSU graduate program requirements, subject to the conditions outlined in this paragraph.

(1) Internal graduate credit

Graduate credit earned at BGSU may be applied across multiple BGSU programs when academically appropriate and permitted by time-to-degree limits.

(a) Credit may be applied to both a certificate and a master's program, or to both a certificate and a doctoral program.

(b) Credit, up to a maximum of nine hours, may be applied to both a specialist and a doctoral program.

(2) External graduate credit

Graduate students who have been fully admitted to a BGSU graduate degree or certificate program and who are actively pursuing the program's requirements may request consideration of external graduate credit after satisfactorily completing at least three credit hours of BGSU graduate coursework applicable to the program.

External graduate credit may be considered when:

(a) The coursework is at the graduate level and appropriate to the student's program of study.

(b) The student earned a grade of A or B (3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale), or the equivalent for institutions using non-letter graded systems, as determined by the graduate coordinator.

(c) Credit awarded with an S grade may be transferred only if the originating institution verifies that the grade represents work at the level of B or better (defined as 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale).

(d) Adequate documentation is provided to verify the academic nature, content, and level of the course.

(e) Courses offered in nontraditional formats, such as short-format intensives, workshops, or travel-based courseowrk, must include documentation sufficient to determine graduate-level rigor and applicability.

(f) The course would be eligible to satisfy graduate program requirements at the institution where it was completed.

(3) Limits on transfer or approval of credit

(a) Only graduate level coursework is eligible.

(b) Courses that duplicate BGSU coursework may not be transferred ortaken again for credit.

(c) All transfer credit must comply with university time to degree limits defined in the time limits for degree and revalidation - graduate policy.

(d) Transfer credit is recorded as credit hours only. Grades do not transfer and are not included in the BGSU grade point average (GPA).

(e) Up to nine semesters hours of post-baccalaureate credit may be applied toward a master's, specialist, or doctoral program.

(f) Up to one course, not exceeding three semester hours, may be applied toward a graduate certificate program.

(g) Exceptions to these maximums may apply for graduate students transferring to BGSU with a faculty mentor who is newly hired at BGSU.

(4) Restrictions

(a) Courses taken for professional development may not be transferred for graduate credit.

(b) Transfer of credit is not permitted for graduate guest students. If a graduate guest student later becomes admitted to a graduate program, eligible credit may be reviewed at that time.

(c) Conditionally admitted students must achieve regular status before requesting transfer credit. Final approval for transferred credit is granted only by the graduate dean designate.

(d) Transfer credit may not be used solely for consolidating academic transcripts.

Last updated June 24, 2026 at 7:50 AM

History

Effective: June 24, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-06 Doctoral requirements in research and professional programs with a dissertation.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes requirements for research and professional doctoral degrees that include a dissertation as the capstone experience. It does not pertain to clinically - and practically - based professional doctoral degrees in which the dissertation is not the capstone experience.

(B) Policy

(1) Credit hours

A doctoral program must consist of at least sixty credit hours of graduate coursework beyond the master's degree or ninety credit hours beyond the bachelor's degree. These hours must include at least sixteen hours of dissertation research. No more than thirty hours of dissertation research credit hours are applicable to the degree.

Transfer of credit from other institutions is described in the "Credit Transfer-Graduate" policy, rule 3341-3-05 of the Administrative Code.

(2) Level of work

The number of 5000-level credit hours that may be counted toward the minimum required credit hours may not exceed ten.

(3) Qualifying examinations

Programs may require students to take qualifying examinations prior to the preliminary experience [see (B)(5) of the rule (preliminary experience)]. In these cases, qualifying examinations typically reflect mastery of coursework, whereas preliminary experiences reflect readiness to conduct independent research. Refer to individual program requirements for details.

(4) Graduate faculty representative

(a) Appointment

The graduate college appoints a graduate faculty representative (GFR) to the student's committee whent he student submits the preliminary experence application form. This appointment may be based on a nomination by the program or selected from a pool of volunteer graduate faculty representatives.

The GFR:

(i) Is not affiliatd with the student's program;

(ii) Is appointed before the preliminary experience is undertaken; and

(iii) Contrinues with the student through the dissertation process.

(b) Expectations and responsibilities

The GFR is expected to participate in the preliminary and dissertation experiences, including all scheduled committee meetings and deliberations. The primary responsibility of the GFR is to ensure a fair, equitable, and rigorous process.

(5) Preliminary experience

Students must successfully complete a preliminary examination or priliminary project administered by a preliminary experience committee in the doctoral program. The preliminary experience contains both a written and oral component.

(a) Preliminary Experience committee

A preliminary experience committee, whether chaired or co-chaired, must have at least four members, including the GFR. In most cases, the chair and two committee members with disciplinary expertise come from the student's program of study; however, this composition is left to the discretion of the program. These committee members:

(i) Typically assist in the preparation of the preliminary examination or preliminary project, and

(ii) Are expected to participate actively in the evaluation of the written and oral components of the experience.

Preliminary experiences must be conducted with the participation of all committee members.

Committee members must have appropriate levels of graduate faculty status as described in the "Graduate Faculty Status" policy, rule 3341-3-11 of the Administrative Code.

(b) Preliminary experience eligibility criteria

The student may apply to complete the preliminary experience after having:

(i) Removed any conditions of admission;

(ii) Completed or approached completion of coursework required by the program before formally engaging in dissertation research; and

(iii) Achieved a cumulative graduate grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0.

A preliminary examination or project application must

(i) Be submitted by the student to the graduate college at least eight weeks prior to the proposed date of the preliminary examination or preliminary project.

(ii) Include the signature of all committee members

(d) Preliminary experience results

Preliminary examination or preliminary project results are based on the preliminary experience committee's assessment of both the written component and the oral defense. The student successfully completes a preliminary experience if :

(i) They have no more than one vote for failure, and

(ii) Any conditions stipulated by the committee have been met.

The results are reported to the graduate college by submitting the preliminary experience report form. By signing the form, the GFR confirms that the process has been fair, equitable, and rigorous.

(e) Second attempt

If the student fails the preliminary experience, they may complete a second examination or project. This must follow a remediation period determined by the committee. The deadline for rexamination will also be determined by the committee in collaboration with the student. Dismissal from the doctoral program will result if the student fails the second attempt.

(6) Dissertation

(a) Dissertation committee

A dissertation committee, whether chaired or co-chaired, must have at least four members, including the GFR. In most cases the chair and two committee members with disciplinary expertise come from the student's program of study; however, this composition is left to the discretion of the program. In some programs, the members of the student's preliminary experience committee continue to work with the student through the dissertation process. In other programs, some or all dissertation committee members may change. All committee members are expected to participate actively in the evaluation of the dissertation proposal (topic approval) through final oral defense and manuscript approval.

Committee members must have appropriate levels of graduate faculty status, as described in the "Graduate Faculty Status" policy, rule 3341-3-11 of the Administrative Code.

(b) Topic approval

The student's dissertation topic must be proposed to the student's dissertation committee in writing and defended orally at a dissertation topic approval meeting. Committee approval is documented via topic approval form. Substantial changes to the topic or methodology require students to submit a new topic approval form.

If the approved topic or research methodology changes substantially between the time of topic approval and the final defense of the manuscript, students must submit a new topic approval form.

If the student wishes to change committee members after the topic approval form has been completed, they must submit a committee change form. This requires approval of the committee chair, the graduate coordinator in the student's program, and the graduate dean or designate.

(d) Candidacy

Doctoral candidacy is conferred after successfully completing the preliminary experience and securing approval for the dissertation topic by the student's dissertation committee and the graduate college.

The student must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

(e) Dissertation research registration and continuous registration

Students must register for a minimum of sixteen credits of dissertation research (7990) and maintain continuous registration each fall and spring term until the dissertation is completed, the final oral exam (i.e., dissertation defense) has been passed, and the dissertation manuscript has been accepted by the graduate college. Summer registration is only required if university services are used or graduation occurs in that term.

The minimum continuous registration is one credit hour per semester. Missed terms must be made up, with tuition assessed at the current rates when the registration is processed.

(f) Dissertation manuscript and final oral examination

A degree candidate must submit a complete final draft of the dissertation manuscript to the dissertation committee sufficiently prior to the date set for the final oral examination.

Unless there are intellectual property issues or other substantive concerns the final oral defense should be open and announced to the campus community, at the discretion of the dissertation committee in collaboration with the student.

The student must pass a final oral examination (i.e., dissertation defense) administered by the dissertation committee, and secure that committee's approval of the dissertation manuscript. Approval requires no more than one dissenting vote.

A defense and manuscript approval form, inclusive of all required signatures, must be received by the graduate college by the published deadline. By signing the form, the GFR confirms that the process has been fairm equitable, and rigorous.

The final manuscript must be approved by the dissertation committee, meet all formatting requirements, and be submitted to OhioLINK by the published deadline required for graduation.

(g) Re-examination

If the student fails the final oral examination, they may take a second examination This must follow a remediation period determined by the committee. The deadline for reexamination will also be determined by the commitee in collaboration with the student. Failure of the second oral examination will result in dismissal from the doctoral program.

Last updated April 22, 2026 at 7:47 AM

History

Effective: April 22, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-11

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes the application process, criteria, and privileges associated with graduate faculty status.

(B) Policy

(1) Appointments to the BGSU graduate faculty

The BGSU graduate college grants two major categories of graduate faculty status (GFS), provisional and regular status (including three levels). In addition, courtesy appointments (adjunct and ad hoc) may be granted as appropriate. This document describes each category's privileges, the process for application, and the graduate college minimum qualifications needed for each category. It also includes guidelines for the required creation of academic unit qualifications beyond the graduate college minimum criteria. It should be noted that the granting of graduate faculty status is a graduate college designation and, though obtaining and maintaining graduate faculty status may be an expectation in some units, the review and receipt of graduate faculty status is a separate process from tenure, promotion, and workload allocation. In keeping with HLC and state policies, faculty who teach and supervise doctoral students must possess the terminal degree in the field.

GFS application process- graduate faculty status applications must be approved by:

(a) The tenuring or hiring unit for TTF and QRF, respectively;

(b) The line college dean; and

Faculty may participate in graduate activities outside of the tenuring or hiring unit at the discretion of that unit. Faculty may not participate in graduate education without GFS. Retired faculty may retain graduate faculty status, if requested by their unit.

(2) Provisional appointments

Provisional appointments may be requested for new full-time BGSU faculty members (TTF and QRF), or for continuing BGSU faculty members (TTF or QRF) who have held graduate faculty status for less than six years, or who have not previously held graduate faculty status. These new or continuing faculty members who hold the appropriate terminal degree, or at least a master's degree in addition to additional graduate course work and/or have developed extensive experience in the profession, may be nominated by their graduate programs for provisional membership at either the level II or level III status, depending on credentials. See paragraph (B)(3) of this policy for privileges of each level.

It is expected that the provisional appointment will provide the opportunity for faculty members to acquire the necessary credentials for regular membership. Provisional status is valid for up to six years and is non-renewable. In individual cases, programs may petition the graduate dean designate to permit provisional II members to direct doctoral-level students.

(3) Regular appointments

Regular graduate faculty status (GFS) may be earned by full-time BGSU faculty after a successful provisional status period or when requested for a new full-time faculty member who is hired at the associate or full professor rank. Faculty who are not full-time may apply for adjunct status (see below). Regular graduate faculty status comprises three levels, each with its own privileges and criteria.

Criteria for regular graduate faculty status

The graduate college recognizes that the nature of research, academic scholarship, and creative productions in various departments and schools varies according to discipline; consequently, each unit will determine its criteria and performance indicators for level I, II, and III regular graduate faculty status. Each unit's policy document will outline its criteria for regular status, and it must meet at least the minimum standards set forth in this policy document. Minimally, these criteria and performance indicators must conform to the goals of graduate education (based on HLC and CCGS definitions of graduate-level education). Initially, the line college dean, the graduate college dean or designate, and graduate council must approve the criteria and performance indicators for each unit. Subsequently, an evaluation of each program's criteria and performance indicators will be conducted routinely as part of the program review process and/or as a part of a discipline specific accreditation review.

Each program's graduate faculty documents must include performance indicators in each of the following categories for each level: degree qualifications; scholarship and creative activity; and graduate teaching. The graduate college minimum criteria are listed in this paragraph for each category. However, individual program GFS policy documents shall expand on these minimal criteria to develop discipline/field-appropriate policies. The graduate college will provide a template for this process.

(a) Level I privileges (for regular I graduate faculty only)

(i) Chair doctoral dissertation or master's thesis committee.

(ii) Participate as a member of a thesis or dissertation committee and all other graduate responsibilities associated with both the master's and doctoral level of graduate study.

(iii) Teach graduate courses of any level (5000, 6000, 7000).

(iv) Participate as a graduate faculty representative (GFR) on dissertation committees.

(v) Represent graduate program at graduate council.

(b) Regular level I criteria

(i) Degree qualifications: members of level I status are tenure-track faculty who hold a graduate degree appropriate to their field, either the doctorate or the terminal degree for those academic areas in which the doctorate is not normally required.

(ii) Scholarship and/or creative activity: the criteria must include evidence of a continuous record of productive scholarship or creative endeavors that represents a significant contribution to the knowledge base and/or the creative practice of one's field of study. While the unit will define the type of research or creative work, the quality of that work will have been verified by a peer review process. At a minimum, the graduate college requires at least three separate pieces of academic/creative work or the equivalent during the previous six years of this reappointment.

(iii) Graduate teaching: the criteria must include evidence of active and productive participation in the instruction of graduate students. This may include activities such as teaching graduate courses, advising, course development, thesis/dissertation advising, and other activities that contribute substantially to the educational experience of graduate students.

(i) Chair master's thesis committees and supervise master's plan II experiences.

(ii) Participate as a member of doctoral dissertation, qualifying exam, and preliminary exam committees, in addition to participating in master's thesis committees and plan II experiences.

(iii) Teach graduate courses at any level (5000, 6000, 7000).

(iv) Participate as a graduate faculty representative on dissertation committees.

(v) Represent graduate program at graduate council.

(d) Regular level II criteria

(i) Degree qualifications: members of level II status are full-time BGSU faculty members (specifically including tenure-track and qualified-rank) and hold a graduate degree appropriate to their field: either the doctorate or the terminal degree for those academic areas in which the doctorate is not normally required. However, in some cases, faculty without the terminal degree may demonstrate qualifications for this status when they have at least a master's degree in addition to additional graduate course work and/or have developed extensive experience in the profession for which they are expected to teach.

(ii) Scholarship and/or creative activity: the criteria must include evidence of a record of productive scholarship or creative endeavors that represents a contribution to the knowledge base and/or the creative practice of one's field of study. While the unit will define the type of research or creative work, the quality of that work will have been verified by a peer review process. At a minimum, the graduate college requires at least two separate pieces of academic/creative work or the equivalent during the previous six years of this reappointment.

(iii) Graduate teaching: the criteria must include evidence of active and productive participation in the instruction of graduate students. This may include activities such as teaching graduate courses, advising, course development, thesis/dissertation committee work, and other activities that contribute substantially to the educational experience of graduate students.

(e) Level III privileges (for regular III and provisional III graduate faculty)

(i) Participate as a non-voting reader on a thesis committee.

(ii) Teach graduate courses at the 5000 and 6000 level.

(iii) Supervise master's plan II experiences (if approved).

(iv) Participate in master's plan II experiences.

(v) Represent graduate program at graduate council.

(f) Regular level III criteria

(i) Degree qualifications: members of level III status are full-time BGSU faculty members (specifically including tenure-track and qualified-rank) and normally hold a graduate degree appropriate to their field: either the doctoral degree or the terminal degree for those academic areas in which the doctorate is not normally required. However, in some cases, faculty without the terminal degree may demonstrate qualifications for this status when they have at least a master's degree in addition to additional graduate course work and/or have developed extensive experience in the profession for which they are expected to teach.

(ii) Scholarship, creative and/or professional activity: the criteria must include evidence of scholarly, creative, or professional activity that represents a contribution to the knowledge base and/or the creative practice, or professional practice of one's field of study. The unit will define the type of scholarly, creative, or professional activity; however the graduate college expects at least one piece of scholarly/creative/professional work or the equivalent during the previous six years of this reappointment.

(4) Courtesy appointments

The majority of work for graduate education at BGSU is conducted by regular or provisional graduate faculty at levels I, II, and III. However, other faculty are also called upon to provide expertise in graduate teaching and mentoring. Two categories of courtesy appointments are adjunct and ad hoc status.

(a) Adjunct appointment

The graduate college dean or designate may grant adjunct graduate faculty appointments to individuals who are not regularly and continuously on the staff full-time and do not normally receive a salary from BGSU. These individuals may be needed to teach graduate courses or serve on thesis or dissertation committees. Such adjunct appointments must have approval of the line college dean, and the graduate dean designate. Adjunct graduate faculty appointments are made for a designated time period and are renewable. The credentials of adjunct graduate faculty must be reviewed at least once every six years.

(i) Adjunct privileges

(A) If approved, serve as members of thesis and dissertation committees, supervise or participate in master's plan II experiences, or other duties.

(B) If approved, teach courses at the 5000 through 7000 levels.

(ii) Adjunct criteria

Graduate faculty adjuncts should hold a graduate degree appropriate to their field, either the doctorate or the terminal degree for those academic areas in which the doctorate is not normally required. However, in some cases, faculty without the terminal degree may demonstrate qualifications for this status when they have at least a master's degree in addition to additional graduate course work and/or have developed extensive experience in the profession for which they are expected to teach.

(b) Ad hoc appointment

BGSU employees, who otherwise do not have graduate faculty status, may be authorized to teach specific graduate courses or serve on a thesis or dissertation committee in a capacity other than chair or principal advisor. An example of ad hoc members may be administrators or ex-administrators who, because of the demands of administrative duties, do not currently meet the criteria for regular graduate faculty status. Ad hoc appointments are for one to three years and may be renewed.

(i) Ad hoc privileges

(A) If approved, serve as members of thesis and dissertation committees, supervise or participate in master's plan II experiences, or other duties.

(B) If approved, teach courses at the 5000 through 7000 levels.

(ii) Ad hoc criteria

(A) Ad hoc graduate faculty should hold a graduate degree appropriate to their field, either the doctorate or the terminal degree for those academic areas in which the doctorate is not normally required. However, in some cases, BGSU employees without the terminal degree may demonstrate qualifications for this status when they have at least a master's degree in addition to additional graduate course work and/or have developed extensive experience in the profession for which they are expected to teach.

(B) Ad hoc appointments will be made only if all of the following stipulations apply:

(i) There is a demonstrated need for the course or committee service to be conducted by the appointee nominee, and

(ii) No regular or provisional graduate faculty are available.

Authorization to teach a specific course or serve on a committee must be gained prior to the beginning of the course or the constitution of the committee.

Last updated December 6, 2021 at 11:03 AM

History

Effective: December 6, 2021
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-07 Enrollment and registration-graduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes graduate enrollment and registration policies.

(B) Policy

(1) Enrollment and registration

(a) Registration deadlines

Students must make a formal application for admission to the graduate college prior to registering for classes in order to receive graduate credit.

The university requests that all graduate students register for classes at the designated time listed on the registrar's office web site. This process will allow early evaluation of low enrollment courses and the possible cancellation of sections. Register early to ensure that the graduate courses you are planning to take are offered.

Registration may be completed at academic departments, on the web through "MyBGSU" (with a BGSU account), or at the office of registration and records, 110 administration building. Students who register during continuing student registration will be billed by the bursar. In-person registrations after fees are due must be paid by the last business day prior to the start of the term. Funded students will automatically be prepaid.

Graduate students who use university services must be regularly registered for credit.

(b) Credit hour load

A full-time graduate student is defined as a student registered for eight semester hours.

Additional credit hour requirements for holding an assistantship can be found in the college assistantship policies of the graduate college website. Audits do not count toward minimum registration loads. Graduate assistants completing a master's thesis or a doctoral dissertation should consult their advisers for appropriate registration requirements.

Excess credit hour loads (beyond eighteen hours in an academic semester or beyond the twelve-hour limit for summer) require approval from the dean designate of the graduate college. An excess credit fee of two hundred (one hundred fifty- Firelands) is charged for each hour of enrollment in excess of eighteen hours effective Spring semester 2010.

Bowling Green state university and the university of Toledo offer graduate students enrolled in a degree program, the unique opportunity to enhance their academic experience by taking advantage of resources provided by the participating institutions through the graduate concurrent enrollment program. After receiving the approval of their graduate coordinator (BGSU)/advisor (UT) and participating graduate dean designates, students in the concurrent enrollment Program may take coursework at the host institution and receive credit on their home institution's official transcript.

BGSU students who enroll in the concurrent graduate program at UT are required to complete a minimum of fifty-one per cent of the courses in their graduate degree program on the BGSU main campus. Part-time graduate students who participate in the program pay the instructional and, if applicable, the nonresident fees at the host institution on a per-hour basis.

Instructional and non-resident tuition fees will be waived by UT for a BGSU student who pays full-time instructional and non-resident fees as a graduate student or has been awarded a tuition scholarship grant through a graduate assistantshipbased on the credit hours awarded.

A BGSU full-time graduate student is defined as one who is registered for eight graduate credits hours per term. A UT full-time graduate student will need to be verified by UT. If the student's registration goes below the minimum credit hours defined at the home institution (i.e., withdraws from courses during the term), then the student will be billed retroactively by the host institution and their grades at the host institution may be withheld. At BGSU, for fee paying purposes, the minimum credit hours is defined as twelve. If a BGSU student's total enrollment for the term is in excess of eighteen hours, effective Spring semester 2010, an excess credit fee of two hundred dollars is charged for each additional hourstarting with the nineteenth hour of registration. The student may be charged an excess fee retroactively from their home institution.

Graduate students who have been awarded an assistantship at BGSU may enroll for a maximum of six credits per term at the host institution with a tuition scholarship grant for instructional and nonresident fees. However, a tuition scholarship grant can only be provided at the host institution when registration at the home institution represents at least two-thirds of the total (home + host) registration for the academic term.

Graduate students from BGSU or UT who seek to enroll under the concurrent registration agreement must submit a completed concurrent enrollment application form (see concurrent enrollment) through the home institution. Not completing this form may result in holds on grades, registration, and transcript records. The graduate application fee, admission fee, transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation are not required.

The concurrent enrollment application must be approved by both the home and host institutions; the concurrent enrollment application does not register the student for the approved course(s) to be taken at the host institution. It is the student's responsibility to register at the host institution prior to the beginning of the term specified on the application. For information on registration procedures at the host institution, consult the host institution's website or contact the host registrar's office. Regardless of any registration at the host institution, a student must register for a minimum of one credit hour at the home institution to remain in good academic standing.

(d) Auditing a class

Students who wish to attend a class without receiving credit for it may register to audit that course. A per-hour instructional fee is charged as if the student had registered for the course for credit. Audits do not count toward minimum registration loads, nor do they satisfy degree requirements. Please see changes in registration in this policy.

(e) Changes in registration

The graduate college will not approve an add of a regularly scheduled class nor the change to or from an audit after the first fourteen calendar days of fall and spring semester or the first three calendar days of each summer session. After these dates exceptions may be granted only by the dean designate of the graduate college.

(f) Withdrawing from a course after the drop date

A grade of "W" (withdrawn) is given, if a student withdraws from a course after the last day to drop (see drop/add policy) but before the twelfth week of a course in a fifteen week session. For summer and all other sessions, a "W" is assigned if a student withdraws after completing at least thirteen percent but not more than eighty percent of the session.

A grade of "WF" (withdrawn failing) is assigned if the student withdraws after the intervals described above, stops attending (including failing to take the final exam) without processing a withdrawal, or has never attended and fails to process a withdrawal.

It is the student's responsibility to initiate the withdrawal process within the student's college office.

A student who officially withdraws from the university receives a "W" in all courses for the semester, unless the student has previously withdrawn from a course with a "WF."

These provisions apply to all grading options, including "S/U." The grade of "WF" is used with zero quality points in computing the grade point average; "W" is not used in computing the grade point average.

(g) Dismissal/withdrawal from a course

The university reserves the right to withdraw any graduate student from any course when the student's continuance is not in the interest of the student, the class, or the university. The dismissal of a graduate student from a course and the grade and/or notation in the official record is determined by the dean designate of the graduate college after consultation with the instructor of the course. Students have the right of appeal as prescribed in the student affairs handbook.

(h) Cancellation of registration

The student's class schedule may be cancelled if the fees and charges are not paid prior to the beginning of each semester.

(i) Withdrawal from the university

Students who wish to withdraw from the university in good standing must obtain the permission of the dean designate of the graduate college. After classes begin, a student who drops all classes (even if enrolled for only one class) must withdraw from the university at the graduate college. If a student leaves the university without proper notice and permission, he or she receives a grade of WF in all courses and is not entitled to any refund of fees.

(j) Courses for graduate credit

All courses numbered 5000 through 7000 carry graduate credit. As a matter of policy, no courses numbered lower than 5000 carry graduate credit. Courses not approved for graduate credit cannot be taken and then added to a student's degree program for graduate credit. A graduate student who is enrolled in a graduate class open to undergraduates (4000/5000 courses) is required to do additional work of an individual nature to earn graduate credit for the course. The instructor is responsible for designating the type and amount of such work, but the graduate student must take the initiative in arranging for it within the first week of the term.

History

Effective: October 17, 2017
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-08 Financial information and assistance-graduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes graduate student fees and expenses, methods of payment, assistantships, fellowships, and other aid, in addition to off-campus housing, supplemental employment, and federal student aid.

(B) Policy

(1) Fees and expenses

Please visit the office of the bursar's website at http://www.bgsu.edu/bursar.html for a current listing of all board-approved fees and amounts.

(2) Methods of payment

For more information on payment plan options, please visit: http://www.bgsu.edu/bursar/payment-plan-options.html.

(3) Late payment fees/service charges/delinquent accounts

Students experiencing financial difficulties should contact the office of the bursar promptly to arrange for payment of their outstanding balance and to avoid any further collection activity. Visit: http://www.bgsu.edu/bursar/payment-policy/collection-processes.html for further information.

(4) Refund of fees

For specific information regarding the process of refunding fees, visit: http://www.bgsu.edu/bursar/refund-options.html.

(5) Assistantships and scholarships

(a) Graduate assistantships

Graduate students with service assistantships (i.e., teaching, research, and housing) work a maximum of twenty hours per week (or the standard hours outlined in the contract) during the contracted period.

(b) Programs may offer students funding for up to two academic years (twenty-four consecutive months) at the master's level and up to four years (fourty-eight consecutive months) at the doctoral level. Programs may offer students funding for up to three academic years (thirty-six consecutive months) if the student is enrolled in a dual master's degree program or two concurrent master's degree programs at BGSU.

To retain an appointment, graduate assistants must be regularly enrolled degree-seeking students, must make satisfactory progress toward a degree, and must perform duties satisfactorily according to the terms of the appointment. Additional requirements are listed in the graduate college assistantship policy on the graduate college website. A student's funding is terminated if he or she is suspended for ethical or legal misconduct as specified in the student code.

Tuition scholarships are awarded separate from any GA stipend position. Scholarship dollars can be used for tuition payment and may never be used as compensation for services. Scholarships can be used towards graduate credit hours that satisfy requirements for the degree. Tuition scholarships do not cover any student fees.

For more information, see https://www.bgsu.edu/ graduate/graduateassistantships/college-assistantship-policies.html.

(d) Oral proficiency for graduate assistants/fellows who provide classroom-related services and whose native language is not English

According to BGSU policy and section 3345.281 of the Revised Code, all graduate assistants who serve in instructional capacities (teaching, tutoring, laboratory sections, etc.) who are not native speakers of English must demonstrate that they are orally proficient in the English language prior to working with students. Prospective graduate assistants who fulfill the above listed instructional responsibilities (here forward referred to as teaching assistants) can demonstrate this proficiency by either providing an appropriate TOEFL iBT score or by completing the ESOL program's spoken English test (SET).*

It is the responsibility of each department to ensure that all non-native English speaking teaching assistants receive clearance before beginning their assistantship duties and that all teaching assistants who are required to take ITA classes do so in the appropriate semesters. Departments should refer to the procedures posted on the ESOL program's website.

*Teaching assistants/associates who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents only need to demonstrate English proficiency if they do not have an undergraduate/graduate degree from a U.S. institution.

For more information about graduate assistantships, visit: http://www.bgsu.edu/graduate/graduate-assistantships.html.

(e) Graduate hall director

Graduate hall directors may receive graduate assistantships as part of their compensation for their work. For job description, application process, and FAQs, please see: https://www.bgsu.edu/residence-life/employment-opportunities/graduate-residence-hall-director-information.html.

(f) Additional employment

Because academic success is the primary goal of graduate study, graduate assistants are discouraged from working more than twenty hours per week, including the assistantship appointment, when classes are in session. Graduate assistants should confer with their graduate coordinators before accepting additional employment, whether on or off campus. Federal regulations strictly prohibit international students from working more than twenty hours per week.

Additional campus employment may be sought through student employment services website available at: https://www.bgsu.edu/student-employment-services. html. Domestic students are not permitted to work more than twenty-eight hours per week among all on-campus employment positions combined. Additionally, federal regulations strictly prohibit international students from working more than twenty hours per week.

(g) Federal student aid

Regularly admitted students who are U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, as well as some eligible non-citizens can apply for federal student aid through www.fafsa.gov. Please see https://www.bgsu.edu/ financial-aid/graduate-and-professional-students.html for more information.

Students who are admitted in a graduate non-degree status are typically not eligible for federal student aid because federal regulations require students be enrolled in an eligible academic program for the purpose of obtaining a degree or be enrolled in an approved certificate program. More information about federal aid eligibility requirements, as well as exceptions for some graduate non-degree students can be found here: http://www.bgsu.edu/registration-records/admission-services/graduate-graduate-non-degree.html.

For further details regarding the financial aid process please visit http://www.bgsu.edu/graduate/financial-aid.html.

History

Effective: February 26, 2019
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-09 Graduate Grading Policies.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes the grading system and grade-based expectations in graduate education at BGSU. It applies to all graduate-level coursework and defines how grades, including incomplete (INC) grades, affect academic standing and degree progress.

(B) Policy

(1) Grading system

(a) Letter grades

Graduate courses approved for letter grading use the following scale:

A - 4.0 points

B - 3.0 points

C - 2.0 points

D - 1.0 points

F - 0.0 points

WF - withdraw failing, 0.0 points

A grade of D, F, or WF cannot be used to meet graduate degree or certificate requirements or minimum credit hour requirements, although these grades are included in the cumulative graduate grade point average (GPA), except as permitted by the graduate college grade replacement policy.

(b) Satisfactory/unsatisfactory (S/U) grades

Some graduate courses are approved exclusively for S/U (satisfactory/unsatisfactory) grading, and students enroled in a course approved for S/U-only grading are not eligible to receive a letter grade.

(i) S indicated satisfactory performance equivalent to a letter grade of B or higher (3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale), except as noted for specific culminating experience courses (see paragraph (B)(1)(d) of this policy)

(ii) U indicates unsatisfactory performance and earns no credit toward graduate program requirements.

Thesis (6990) and dissertation (7990) research courses are graded S/U only.

(i) S indicates satisfactory progress for the semester.

(ii) U indicates unsatisfatory progress based on criteria determined at the program level.

The final evaluation of the thesis/dissertation is independent of semester S/U grades.

Prior to Spring 2018, thesis and dissertation research courses were recorded with the grade IP (in progress) until completion and approval of the thesis or dissertation, when the final grade of S was assigned.

(d) Other culminating experience courses

The approved grading basis for all other culminating experience courses (non-6990 or 7990) is determined by the academic program through the curricular approval process.

(e) Graduate GPA calculation

The cumulative graduate GPA is calculated by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of graduate credit hours attempted. Courses in which the marks INC, IP,S, U, or W are recorded are excluded from the GPA calculation.

If the course is repeated, all grades earned are included in the cumulative graduate GPA, except as permitted by the graduate college grade replacement and fresh start for graduate students policies.

(2) Grading basis of courses

Each graduate course is approved through BGSU's curriculum process for either letter grading or S/U grading. The approved grading basis for a course cannot be changed by the instructor or the student.

Graduate students enrolled in undergraduate courses receive grades according to the undergraduate grading system. These grades are not calculated in the graduate GPA and do not count toward graduate program requirements.

(3) Incomplete (INC) grades

An INC may be assigned only when a student has completed most required work in the course and is unable to fulfill a specified requirement due to documented circumstances beyond the student's control. An INC is not intended to serve as an extension for students who do not complete work due to avoidable delays, poor planning, or failure to meet course expectations.

Assignment of an INC is at the instuctor's discretion and requires explicit agreement between the instructor and the student regarding the work to be completed, the expectations for satisfatory completion, and the deadline for completion. The instructor must communicate these expectations to the to the student in writing. The instructor may set an earlier deadline than the graduate college deadline for removal of INC grades.

An INC may be removed and a final grade substitued if the student completes course requirements to the satisfaction of the instructor by the graduate college deadline or by an earlier deadline established by the instructor. The graduate college deadlines for removal of INC grades for the respective academic semesters are:

Fall semester: March first

Spring semester: August first

Summer semester: November first

Extensions are permitted only under exceptional circumstances and must be requested by the student from the instructor before the established deadline. If the instructor supports the request, the request must also be approved by the line college dean or designee. Extensions are not guarenteed.

(a) Conversion of INC

If an INC is not resolved by the applicable deadline:

(i) In letter-graded courses, the INC converts to F.

(ii) In S/U-graded courses, the INC converts to U.

(b) Graduation requirement

Students cannot graduate with an INC in a graduate-level course. If a student receives an INC during the intended graduation semester, they will be removed from the graduation list and must reapply for graduation in a future semester after the INC has been resolved.

Last updated June 24, 2026 at 7:50 AM

History

Effective: June 24, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-12 Graduation Application and Minimum Registration.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes the administrative and registration requirements for becoming a candidate for a graduate degree or certificate.

(B) Policy

(1) Graduation application

To become a candidate for a graduate degree or certificate, a student must submit a graduation application by the deadline established by the graduate college for the semester of inteded completion.

Application deadlines are established by the graduate college and posted on its website.

Candidates who do not complete program requirements will be withdrawn from graduation and must reapply in a subsequent semester.

(2) Minimum registration requirement

All graduate students must be registered for a minimum of one credit hour during the semester in which they apply for graduation, with the following exceptions:

(a) Students do not need to be registered at BGSU while completing an approved transfer course at another institution that is required for their program.

(b) Students who have completed all program requirements prior to five p.m. eastern time on the first day of classes in the semester they have applied to graduate, and were enrolled in the immediately preceding semester, are not required to meet the minimum registration requirement. Program requirements included completion of all coursework with posed gradues, milestones, forms, and requirements related to culminating experiences.

Last updated January 30, 2026 at 2:17 PM

History

Effective: January 30, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-13 Student health insurance.

(A) Policy statement and scope

This policy describes health insurance requirements for university students. The university believes that health insurance coverage supports the academic success and well-being of its students.

(B) Scope

This policy is separate and distinct from and does not alter any existing federal or state laws, rules, or regulations concerning health insurance minimum essential coverage requirements. This policy applies to the following students:

(1) Domestic students taking eight or more credit hours, per semester, on the main Bowling Green, Ohio campus. This includes Firelands Pathway students.

(2) International students, regardless of credit hours, taking classes at the Bowling Green or Firelands campus.

Students participating in the college credit plus, eCampus, distance learning or dual enrollment programs are not eligible for university-sponsored health insurance.

(1) Health insurance coverage requirments

Students identified in paragraphs (B)(1) to (B)(2) of this rule are required to be covered by a health insurance plan which provides inpatient and outpatient medical and mental health coverage in northwest Ohio. These students are automatically enrolled in the university-sponsored health insurance plan, and costs are assessed to their student accounts, per semester, unless they meet the criteria for an exemption and are granted a waiver pursuant to paragraph (C)(2) of this rule.

Students who are not identified in paragraphs (B)(1) to (B)(2) of this rule may still be eligible to purchase the university-sponsored health insurance plan.

Students who purchase the university-sponsored health insurance plan may also have the option of purchasing coverage for their spouse and/or dependent children through the same plan.

(2) Health insurance coverage waiver

Students who have active health insurance which meets the minimum essential coverage requirements outlined within this policy are permitted to waive the university-sponsored health insurance plan. To waive coverage the student must submit a waiver request, along with proof of minimum essential coverage, by all published waiver deadlines. In addition, the student must agree to maintain this coverage throughout the entire academic year.

The university-sponsored health insurance plan and its assessment will remain on the student's account, and the student will be responsible for paying its costs, if the student does not submit a waiver or if their coverage is not considered minimum essential coverage.

Waiver requests must be submitted each academic year in which the student is required to have health insurance. The student is solely responsible for notifying the university if their coverage lapses and/or expires during the academic year. If the student's coverage lapses and/or expires during the academic year they are required to notify the student insurance office and must either (a) submit an updated health insurance card; or (b) enroll into the BGSU student health insurance plan as a "Qualifying Life Event."

(3) Minimum essential coverage

(a) Domestic students

Minimum essential coverage for domestic students covered by this policy means a policy which:

(i) Is currently active, and which will be maintained for the entire academic year and

(ii) Provides for inpatient and outpatient medical and mental health care in northwest Ohio.

(b) International students

Minimum essential coverage for international students covered by this policy means a policy which:

(i) Is currently active, and which will be maintained for the entire academic year);

(ii) Is provided by a company licensed to do business within the United States that pays all benefits in U.S. currency, and has a U.S. claims address and a U.S. phone number for coverage and payment inquiries;

(iii) Provides for inpatient and outpatient medical and mental health care in northwest Ohio;

(iv) Includes coverage for pre-existing conditions without any waiting period;

(v) Includes unlimited annual benefits per illness or injury as well as unlimited maximum benefits for prescription medications;

(vi) Includes an annual individual deductible of five hundred dollars or less;

(vii) Includes a minimum benefit of twenty-five thousand dollars for repatriation expenses;

(viii) Includes a minimum benefit of fifty thousand dollars for medical evacuation expenses.

Equity impact statement: The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated January 2, 2025 at 1:41 PM

History

Effective: January 2, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-14 International teaching assistant language policy-graduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy pertains to all graduate assistants who serve in instructional capacities and who are not native speakers of English.

(B) Policy

(1)

According to section 3345.281 of the Revised Code, all graduate assistants who serve in instructional capacities (teaching, tutoring, laboratory sections, etc.) who are not native speakers of English must demonstrate that they are orally proficient in the English language prior to serving an instructional role. Prospective graduate assistants who fulfill the listed instructional responsibilities can demonstrate this proficiency by either providing an appropriate standardized English language ) proficiency test score or by completing the ESOL program's spoken english test (SET). *

It is the responsibility of each department to ensure that all non-native English speaking graduate assistants receive clearance before beginning their assistantship duties and that all graduate assistants who are required to take ITA classes do so in the appropriate semesters. Departments should refer to the procedures posted on the ESOL program's website. (http://www.bgsu.edu/esolita).

*Graduate assistants who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents only need to demonstrate English proficiency if they do not have an undergraduate/graduate degree from a U.S. institution.

Last updated July 10, 2025 at 12:14 PM

History

Effective: December 3, 2018
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-15 Leave of Absence - Graduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

(B) Policy

Last updated March 13, 2025 at 7:40 AM

History

Effective: March 13, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-16 Master's degree-general requirements-graduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describe general requirements for all master's degrees. Colleges and departments may have additional requirements relaed to individual degree programs.

(B) Policy

(1) General requirements for the master's degree

(a) Credit hours

All master's degree programs at the university require at least thirty credit hours of graduate course work, twenty-four of which must be earned at the university. Specific credit hour requirements for each program are available in the graduate academic catalog. Course work used to fulfill degree requirements must be within the time limitation as established in the time limits for degree and revalidation policy.

(b) Level of work

Graduate credit may be received for courses at the 5000-level or higher. At least eighteen hours of credit in the student's master's degree program must be at the 6000-level or higher.

(2) Culminating experiences for master's degrees

All master's degree programs must include a culminating experience that provides students an opportunity to synthesize knowledge and experiences gained throughout the master's program. Programs may offer a thesis option (referred to as plan I) or other type of culminating experience (referred to as plan II).

(a) Culminating experience plan I: master's thesis

(i) Thesis committee

Each student is responsible for forming a thesis committee upon approval of the thesis topic. The committee is composed of the thesis advisor and a minimum of one other member from the graduate faculty of the student's program or equivalent faculty. Additional committee members may serve. All committee members need to have graduate faculty status. If a student wishes to change committee members after the thesis topic has been approved, they must submit a thesis committee change form.

(ii) Thesis eligibility criteria

To be eligible to propose a thesis topic, a student must have removed any conditions of admission, and must be in good academic standing.

(iii) Topic approval

To obtain topic approval, a student must prepare and present a written proposal outlining a plan for conducting original research in the field, following standards within the student's program, and have an approved thesis topic approval form on file in the graduate college.

If the approved topic or research method changes substantially between the time of topic approval and the final defense of the manuscript, students must submit a new thesis topic approval form.

(iv) Thesis research registration and continuous registration

(a) Students must register for a minimum of three credits of thesis research (6990) as a degree requirement. A maximum of six hours of 6990 may be applied toward degree requirements. A student is expected to register for as many additional hours as are necessary to complete the work.

(b) Students must begin to register for thesis research (6990) credits when planning their thesis. Students must then continue to register for at least one credit of 6990 each fall and spring semester (i.e., continuous registration).

(c) Students are only required to register for 6990 during summer sessions if they defend a topic or final manuscript, or graduate during that term.

(d) Continuous registration is required until the thesis defense and manuscript approval form has been received by the graduate college.

(e) Students who have submitted a completed thesis defense and manuscript approval form to the graduate college by the end of the first day of the semester in which they graduate are not required to register during the graduation semester.

(f) Students who do not maintain continuous registration will be required to register for the credits for semesters they have missed. Tuition will be assessed at the current rates when the registration is processed.

(v) Thesis manuscript and final oral examination

A degree candidate must submit a complete final draft of the thesis manuscript to the thesis committee sufficiently prior to the date set for the final oral examination.

Unless there are intellectual property issues involved, the program is required to publicize the date, time, and location of the final oral defense to the campus community two weeks before the final oral examination is to be held.

The student must pass a final oral examination (i.e., thesis defense) administered by the thesis committee, and secure that committee's approval of the thesis manuscript.

Prior to the commencement at which the degree is to be conferred, the final, error-free, properly-formatted thesis manuscript approved by the thesis committee must be submitted to OhioLink by the published deadline (MFA creative writing students submit abstract only to OhioLINK, and full hard copy to the BGSU libraries). Details for this process may be found at the graduate college's "Theses & Dissertations" webpage.

(vi) Re-examination

If a student does not pass the final oral examination (thesis defense), they may take a second examination four months or more after the date of the first oral examination. Dismissal from the master's program will result if the second oral examination is failed.

(b) Culminating experience plan II: other culminating experiences

Master's programs may offer culminating experience options in addition to, or instead of the master's thesis. Examples of suitable culminating experiences include, but are not limited to creative written work, capstone or exit project which may be applied in nature and may or may not involve research, comprehensive examination, supervised field experience, portfolio, recital, or any other integrated learning experience. Culminating experiences may be a standalone experience or be integrated within coursework requirements for the degree.

All culminating experiences will include a final assessment of whether the student has passed or failed.

If a student does not pass the final assessment of their culminating experience, they may take a second assessment four months or more after the date of the first assessment. Dismissal from the master's program will result if the second assessment is failed.

If a program offers more than one culminating experience option, a student may request to change culminating experience plans with the approval of the graduate program coordinator.

With approval of the program, up to three 6990 thesis credit hours may be applied towards degree requirements if deemed appropriate.

A graduate student cannot change culminating experience options if they have failed their current culminating experience and their re-examination.

The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated January 8, 2024 at 2:51 PM

History

Effective: June 26, 2023
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-17 Posthumous Awarding of a Degree.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes criteria for posthumous awarding of an undergraduate or graduate degree.

(B) Policy

Bowling Green state university may confer degrees posthumously upon students who are deceased prior to formal completion of all degree requirements of the programs being pursued. Final approval for awarding degrees posthumously shall rest with the president.

(1) Guidelines for consideration for undergraduate students

To be considered for conferring of degree posthumously at Bowling Green state university, the student shall have met the following two conditions at the time of their death:

(a) The student was in good academic standing.

(b) The student was enrolled and had completed at least seventy-five percent of their degree requirements.

(2) Guidelines for consideration for graduate students

To be considered for conferring of degree posthumously at Bowling Green state university, the student shall have met the following three conditions at the time of their death:

(a) The student was in good academic standing.

(b) The student was enrolled and had completed seventy-five per cent of their degree requirements.

(c) In the case of a student in a thesis-based master's program or doctoral program, they must have an approved proposal and commenced research.

Cases that do not meet the enrollment requirement may be considered when extraordinary circumstances (such as absence due to illness or military service) prevail. The existence of a terminal illness will be established by a letter from a licensed medical professional who treated the student.

(3) Approval process

The process for identifying and considering candidates for the posthumous awarding of a degree is as follows:

(a) The chief well-being officer or designee, upon learning of the death of a Bowling Green state university student, shall notify the relevant academic unit(s). Additionally, the chief well-being officer will consult with the registrar or designee to assess whether the student's overall record merits awarding the degree posthumously.

(b) If the student's overall record merits awarding the degree posthumously, the chief well-being officer will share that information with the student's school or departmental faculty, and school director or department chair, who will consider the matter and forward a recommendation to the college dean.

(c) In the case of an undergraduate degree, the college dean will forward their recommendation to the provost. In the case of a graduate degree, the college dean will forward their recommendation to the graduate dean. The graduate dean will provide a recommendation to the provost.

(d) The provost will weigh all information relating to each case independently and will prepare a recommendation to the president, who will make the final decision.

(4) Procedure upon approval

(a) The family of or others close to the deceased student will be notified of the approval by the provost (or designee).

(b) The degree will be conferred at an appropriate private ceremony.

The posthumous nature of the award will be indicated on the diploma and the student's permanent record.

(5) Recognition in lieu of a degree

If a degree is not awarded, Bowling Green state university may present a certificate of recognition to the family or others close to the deceased student.

The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated March 22, 2024 at 11:24 AM

History

Effective: March 15, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-18 Student research-graduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes criteria for student research and research support.

(B) Policy

(1) Student research

Thesis and dissertation research projects involving laboratory animals must be reviewed by the institutional animal care and use committee (IACUC) prior to the initiation of the study. Student research projects that involve collecting information from or about living persons must be reviewed by the human subjects review board (HSRB). For projects involving collection of any kind of information from or about people by survey, interview, testing, observation, examination, specimen collection, or review of records, graduate students should consult with a member of the human subjects review board. This consultation should take place during the design stage of the research project. The identity of a department's representative may be obtained from the departmental graduate coordinator or by calling the office of research compliance.

Graduate students collecting data or carrying on correspondence in connection with a thesis or dissertation may not use the name of the university without special written permission of the dean designate of the graduate college. Any questionnaires or other materials distributed outside the university must receive the prior approval of the instructor or advisor in charge of the study before a student seeks approval by the dean designate.

Additional information concerning the policies applicable to student research projects can be obtained from the office of sponsored programs and research (OSPR).

(2) Research support

(a) Professional travel support

Travel funds available through the departments are used to encourage and support graduate student attendance, participation, and paper presentations at scholarly and professional meetings. To be eligible to apply for a travel award, graduate students must (i) be fully admitted (i.e., without conditions) to a BGSU graduate degree program, (ii) be in good academic standing, and (iii) be enrolled at the time of the conference.

(b) Final project/thesis/dissertation support

Support funds available through the departments are intended to assist graduate students in meeting expenses of their research or creative activities. Awards may be made to (i) doctoral candidates engaged in dissertation research, and (ii) master's students involved in final project research or creative work under plan II or thesis research under plan I. In order to be eligible to apply, applicants must

(i) Be in good academic standing,

(ii) Be enrolled at BGSU, and

(iii) Have an approved topic.

Applicants whose research involves collection of any kind of information from or about people by survey, interview, testing, observation, examination, specimen collection, or review of records must obtain prior approval from the human subjects review board. Applicants whose research involves laboratory animals must obtain prior approval from the animal care and use committee.

Applications for professional travel and/or thesis/dissertation support should be made directly to the graduate coordinator of each unit receiving funds. Applicants are encouraged to apply early to prevent delays in their research.

November 1st, 2013

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 12:59 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-20 Thesis/dissertation- graduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes thesis/dissertation policies and procedures.

(B) Policy

(1) Thesis/dissertation

A thesis is required under plan i for the degrees of master of arts, master of education, master of fine arts, master of food and nutrition, master of public administration, master of science, and master of science in criminal justice or master of technology management. A thesis may be required for the degree of master of music, depending on the field.

The thesis topic should arise out of the student's personal exploration in the field of study. The formal petition for approval of the thesis topic must clearly set forth the problem, the intended organization, and the methods of development of the thesis. After approval by the student's committee and graduate coordinator, the thesis topic must be filed with the student's department and the petition of topic approval submitted to the graduate college.

A preliminary draft of the completed thesis (defined as a manuscript that answers the stated problem) should be submitted to the thesis committee by the time a student files the application for graduation. The final draft of the thesis (defined as the thesis manuscript with content embodying all corrections requested by the committee) should be submitted to the thesis committee sufficiently prior to the date set for the final examination to allow for a rigorous and careful reading of the manuscript by the committee.

Doctoral students must submit a request for dissertation topic approval to the graduate college on the thesis/dissertation topic approval form. Approval of the topic by the graduate college admits the student to doctoral candidacy. To be eligible for candidacy, the student must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, have completed any foreign language requirements, where required, and have passed the preliminary examinations.

The results of the final examination (e.g., dissertation defense) for the doctoral degree must be received in the graduate college by the published deadlines each semester. The graduate college expects that the official university copy of the submitted manuscript will be error-free and ready for publication on "OhioLINK." Students who upload manuscripts that are not error-free are in danger of a delayed graduation date.

The graduate council approved the implementation of electronic submission of theses and dissertations beginning with Fall 2005 for all graduate programs. With the exception of theses written in the MFA program in creative writing, paper copies are no longer accepted by the graduate college.

(2) The thesis/dissertation committee

You and your department's graduate coordinator should work together to select an advisor (also called "major professor") and a thesis or dissertation committee. If you are a doctoral student, the graduate college will appoint an additional member to your committee to represent the graduate faculty. This representative, commonly referred to as the graduate faculty representative (GFR), will be from a department other than that of your field of study. The responsibility of the GFR is to provide an external, objective evaluation of the dissertation and to verify that graduate standards have been met. You may elect to have a faculty member from a different academic area on your committee, but s/he is considered an additional "regular" member not the GFR. The minimum size for a thesis committee is two (the advisor and one additional member), and for a dissertation committee, four (the advisor, two additional members, and the GFR).

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:25 AM

History

Effective: October 17, 2017
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-21 Time limits for degree and revalidation - graduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy describes time limits for degree and revalidation/retake policies for graduate students.

(B) Policy

(1) Time limits

The time limit to complete all degree requirements for master's, certificate, or specialist students is six years from the end of the earliest course used to fulfill degree requirements and eight years for doctoral students.

(2) Course revalidation

If a course has been taken more than six years before graduation (master's, certificate, or specialist), or more than eight years before graduation (doctoral), students should consult their graduate program coordinator. The graduate program coordinator will determine if that course needs to be retaken, or if a revalidation experience can be offered. If offered, a revalidation experience may include a special examination or other written assignment, a portfolio, a new comprehensive or preliminary examination, or another academically appropriate experience. A thesis or dissertation may also serve as a revalidation method if approved. Students may be required to register for academic credit to accompany the academic revalidation experiences.

If the revalidation is successful (e.g., passed by a grade of B or better), then the original course grade will be retained and the student's transcript will reflect revalidation. If the revalidation is unsuccessful, then no change will be made to the student's record. More than one attempt to revalidate a course is permitted if supported by a recommendation from the graduate coordinator of the degree program and approved by the dean designate of the graduate college.

(3) Limits to revalidation

(a) Revalidation opportunities are offered at the discretion of the program, and may not be offered in all situations.

(b) A successfully revalidated course can be used to fulfill degree requirements for up to two years from the semester in which it was revalidated.

(c) Students may not revalidate courses with a grade of c or lower, courses that are internships or other forms of practicum, or courses taken at other institutions.

History

Effective: April 11, 2019
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-23 Academic forgiveness for undergraduates-undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

The academic forgiveness policy pertains only to former Bowling Green state university (BGSU) students returning to the university as undergraduate students after a significant absence and prior to earning any degree at any institution. This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

A student who returns to the university after an extended absence and who demonstrates the ability to do well academically, as described below, may use academic forgiveness to remove the effect of earlier unsatisfactory grades. Such students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor in their college office to develop an academic plan and to discuss this policy.

(1) To be eligible, a student must

(a) Be readmitted to the university after an absence of at least three calendar years;

(b) Have attempted* at least twenty-four letter-graded hours since readmission;

(d) Request academic forgiveness in writing from the office of registration and records.

(e) This request must be made before the end of the semester immediately following the one in which the requirement set forth in paragraph (B)(1)(b) of this rule was met (with the exception of spring semester, when the request must be made by the end of fall semester).

(2) After the student elects academic forgiveness and after eligibility is verified, the following adjustments are made to the student's academic record:

(a) All grades earned at BGSU prior to reentry are excluded from the calculation of the GPA (i.e., forgiven);

(b) Credit hours earned for courses prior to reentry with the grade of at least "S" or "C" are retained;

(d) Each grade that is subject to this policy will remain on the official transcript but will be noted as "forgiven."

(3) All grades, including those that have been forgiven, are used in calculating eligibility for membership in honor societies and graduation with honors.

(4) A student can have the academic forgiveness policy applied to his or her academic record only one time, and academic forgiveness must be prior to the award of the degree for which the hours and grades involved will be applicable. (For example, a student who is pursuing a baccalaureate degree and has earned an associate degree from BGSU cannot apply the policy to any credit earned prior to the completion of the associate degree.)

(5) Students are not eligible for GPA improvements under the course retake policy after academic forgiveness has been applied.

(6) A student who has been granted academic forgiveness must earn a minimum of thirty credit hours from the point of readmission to be eligible to receive a baccalaureate degree.

(7) Any academic probations, suspensions, or dismissals from forgiven semesters will not be forgiven. They will count when the unsatisfactory academic progress policy is applied to the student's record after readmission.

(8) Any punitive grades awarded as the result of an academic honesty case will not be forgiven. Grades of A, B, C, D, F, or WF will continue to be used to calculate the student's cumulative grade point average. Grades of S or U will not have any impact on the student's grade point average.

*Attempted hours include all courses that contribute to the GPA, including those for which the student received credit by earning grades of A, B, C, or D or for which the student did not receive credit due to grades of F, WF, or I.

History

Effective: July 25, 2018
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-24 Academic honesty.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy explains violations of academic honesty, the rights and responsibilities of students, the adjudication process including appeals, and the penalties to a student found guilty of an academic honesty violation.

(B) Policy

Students are expected to maintain the highest level of integrity in their academic work. From time to time, however, issues such as cheating, fabrication, or plagiarism in an academic exercise arise. The original jurisdiction and penalty both vary depending on the offense and when it is discovered. Also, there are specific requirements for record-keeping and for notification of the student and academic dean. The official policy is included in the faculty handbook (academic charter) http://www.bgsu.edu/content/dam/BGSU/catalog/academic-honesty/official-policy.pdf. The policy is also available in the student handbook (codes of conduct).

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:26 AM

History

Effective: March 23, 2017
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-25 Academic honors-undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy provides the requirements for undergraduate academic honors. This policy applies to students enrolled beginning fall semester 2025 and thereafter.

(B) Policy

(1) Dean's list

Full-time undergraduate students who demonstrate a high level of excellence in academic work have their names placed on the academic dean's list. The requirement for achieving the academic dean's list is a grade point average of 3.50 or above in the preceding semester with no fewer than twelve credit hours per semester included in the grade point average computation.

(2) Graduation with academic honors

The record of each undergraduate candidate for graduation with a very high grade point average is carefully reviewed by the university committee on honors and awards so that appropriate recognition and honor may be accorded each student who has achieved outstanding academic success throughout their undergraduate years at Bowling Green state university. The tentative honor, announced at commencement and released to the newspapers, is calculated without the grades from the student's last academic semester. The final honor that is on the permanent record and diploma is based on the student's Bowling Green state university academic record. To be eligible for academic honors, students must earn a minimum of sixty letter-graded credit hours at BGSU for baccalaureate degrees and a minimum of thirty letter-graded credit hours for associate degrees. Courses that are under the A-F letter-graded grading system are considered for academic honors calculation.

(1) Associate degree programs

(a) With distinction

With distinction signifies a high level of academic achievement in an associate degree program. This honor requires a minimum of thirty letter-graded BGSU credit hours and a cumulative BGSU GPA of 3.50 - 3.89.

(b) With highest distinction

With highest distinction signifies the highest level of academic achievement in an associate degree program. This honor requires a minimum of thirty letter-graded credit hours earned at BGSU and a cumulative BGSU GPA of 3.90 or above.

(2) Baccaloureate degree programs/Latin honors

(a) Cum laude

Cum laude signifies a high level of academic achievement in a baccalaureate degree program. This honor requires a minimum of sixty letter-graded credit hours earned at BGSU and a cumulative BGSU GPA of 3.50 - 3.74.

(b) Magna cum laude

Magna cum laude signifies a very high level of academic achievement in a baccalaureate degree program. This honor requires a minimum of sixty letter-graded credit hours earned at BGSU and a cumulative BGSU GPA of 3.75 - 3.89.

Summa cum laude signifies the highest level of academic achievement in a baccalaureate degree program. This honor requires sixty letter-graded credit hours earned at BGSU and a cumulative BGSU GPA of 3.90 or above.

(3) Graduation with university honors

Graduation with university honors is one of the highest honors awarded by the university. The requirements are:

(a) A minimum 3.50 GPA overall, as well as a 3.40 or better in university honors courses.

(b) At least a "B" in each Honors course.

(i) The completion of at least one hundred sixty-nine semester hours of university honors courses, including the honors core sequence (HNRS 2010 and one of the following: 2020, 2400, 2500, or 2600) and the two-course honors project sequence (HNRS 4980 and 4900)

(ii) The completion of six additional honors semester hours or experiential learning units.

(d) For associates degrees at BGSU Firelands: the completion of at least thirteen hours of university honors courses, including the honors core sequence and HNRS 2990.

Last updated November 13, 2025 at 7:39 AM

History

Effective: November 13, 2025
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-26 Academic load and undergraduate enrollment status- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

(1) Introduction

The academic load of a full-time undergraduate student will not be fewer than twelve hours at any time. A full-time student normally should be registered for fifteen to sixteen hours per semester. Enrollment for more than eighteen hours requires the approval of the student's college office.

Students who maintain an academic load of fifteen to sixteen hours per semester will make progress toward a timely degree completion and will advance in class standing each year, allowing them such benefits as priority for class registration and student housing. A full-time student who drops enough hours to become a part-time student is eligible to remain in university-owned housing and to retain membership in university organizations; however, the student is subject to the following restrictions:

(a) Ineligibility for intercollegiate athletics;

(b) Possible reduction of financial aid awards.

(2) Enrollment status

A student's enrollment status is determined by the number of class hours the student is enrolled during a semester. A full-time undergraduate student is enrolled for twelve or more semester hours. A part-time undergraduate student is enrolled for fewer than twelve semester hours. Based on institutional policy, there are designated internship and co-operative education classes that are considered to be enrolled in a full-time academic experience at BGSU. Students should consult with their college office when scheduling internships and co-operative education classes if they have any questions. See also "academic load."

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:26 AM

History

Effective: July 5, 2018
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-27 Admission to BGSU- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

For admission to Bowling Green state university a freshman applicant must:

(1) Be a graduate of a senior high school approved or accredited by the department of education of the state in which it is located; or

(2) Have earned high school equivalency through the general educational development (GED) testing program (issued by the state department of education); or

(3) Present GED test results and ACT or SAT test results, if the student completed secondary education through an alternative program such as home schooling; or

(4) Present an international baccalaureate diploma or certificate.

Applications for admission are accepted and processed each semester of the academic year until the capacity of the freshman class is reached on the Bowling Green campus and at BGSU Firelands in Huron, Ohio. Admission is competitive and is based on the high school curriculum, cumulative grade point average, standardized test scores, and class rank.

High school students are encouraged to apply for admission beginning April fifteenth of their junior year. Because housing accommodations and classroom facilities are limited, students should submit their applications as soon after receiving them as possible. All credentials should be on file by February first of the senior year to assure consideration for admission.

Although the largest number of new students enters in August, it is possible to enter in the spring or summer semester. The application deadline (freshmen and transfer, main campus) for the spring semester is December fifteenth, and for the summer semester May fifteenth. Students applying to the fall have until August first to submit the application. All admission credentials must be received by the office of admissions fourteen days before the semester or fourteen days before the beginning of classes for the summer sessions to allow sufficient time for processing, notification, academic advising, and registration for classes. For international applicants, the application deadline for spring semester is November first, for the summer semester April fifteenth, and for the fall semester the deadline is July fifteenth. For BGSU Firelands, the regional campus of Bowling Green in Huron, Ohio, applications for admission are accepted up to two weeks before the beginning of classes.

An admissions application packet is available online at www.bgsu.edu or by contacting the office of admissions, Bowling Green state university, Bowling Green, OH 43403. To be considered for admission, applicants are required to submit the application for undergraduate admission, a forty-five dollars nonrefundable application fee for the online application (fifty dollars for the paper application), and an official transcript with ACT or SAT test results. All transcripts, test results, and other academic credentials must be mailed from the school or agency to the office of admissions to be accepted as official. Academic credentials mailed by a student will be inadequate for evaluation for an admissions decision. All admission credentials submitted to the office of admissions become the property of Bowling Green state university and cannot be returned. Any misrepresentation of credentials will be cause for refusal or cancellation of admission or expulsion from the university if discovered subsequently.

Applicants who have already graduated from high school may send their completed applications and application fee directly to the BGSU office of admissions. An official final high school transcript should be sent from the high school to the office of admissions.

Applicants who have earned high school equivalency through the general education development (GED) testing program should send their completed applications and application fee directly to the BGSU office of admissions. Both an official copy of the GED results and an official high school transcript of all work completed must be sent to the office of admissions.

A student who has not taken coursework anywhere (high school or college) during the past five years prior to enrollment is eligible for admission to the university. Under this five-year admission policy, a student receives admission and is required to take courses under the close supervision of his or her college academic advisor.

Applicants may fulfill the requirements for admission by presenting an international baccalaureate (IB) diploma or certificate. Grades of four through seven in higher-level subjects may be considered for individual course credit. Students with questions about the IB should contact the office of admissions.

The ACT or the SAT is required of all freshmen except those who have been out of high school for three or more years. Either test will fulfill this requirement. International applicants are not required to submit ACT or SAT results.

All non-native speakers of English are required to take the TOEFL test, or if unavailable, the Michigan test. This is required of international students issued immigrant visas, those transferring from another American college or university, those (with English as a foreign language) coming from U.S. territories (such as Puerto Rico), and those granted U.S. citizenship within recent years.

As a condition of admission to the university and reflecting the educational philosophy of the institution, all freshman- and sophomore-level students are required to live in university residence halls. This policy does not apply to students over the age of twenty-three or to students commuting daily from the home of a parent, legal guardian, or spouse (commuters must live within fifty miles of Bowling Green), or to students who have attained sixty academic semester hours or four semesters of campus residency on or before their first day of classes. See the office of residence life for more details.

For residency requirements for Ohio residents and nonresidents, refer to residency regulations under office of registration and records.

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:26 AM

History

Effective: July 30, 2018
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-28 Admission to BGSU Firelands- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

For admission to BGSU Firelands a freshman applicant must:

(1) Be a graduate of a senior high school approved or accredited by the department of education of the state in which it is located; or

(2) If the student completed secondary education through an alternative program such as home schooling, present ACT or SAT test results showing at least a 21 ACT or 1000 SAT; or

(3) Have earned high school equivalency through the general educational development (GED) testing program (issued by the state department of education); or

(4) Present an international baccalaureate diploma or certificate.

Although the largest number of new students enters in August, it is possible to enter in the spring semester or the summer semester. All admission credentials should be received by the office of admissions two weeks before the beginning of classes to allow sufficient time for processing, notification, academic advising, and registration for classes. High school students are encouraged to apply for admission beginning April fifteenth of their junior year.

Application materials for BGSU Firelands are available online at www.firelands.bgsu.edu or by contacting the office of admissions, BGSU Firelands, Huron, OH 44839. To be considered for admission, applicants are required to submit the application for undergraduate admission, a forty dollars non refundable application fee, and official transcripts. All transcripts, test results, and other academic credentials must be mailed from the school or agency to the office of admissions to be accepted as official. Personal copies of official transcripts will be evaluated for acceptability. If deemed unacceptable, students must provide official copies sent directly from the school.

All admission credentials submitted to the office of admissions become the property of Bowling Green state university and cannot be returned. Any misrepresentation of credentials will be cause for refusal or cancellation of admission or expulsion from the university if discovered subsequently.

Applicants who have already graduated from high school may send their completed application and application fee directly to the office of admissions. An official final high school transcript should be sent from the high school to the office of admissions.

Applicants who have earned high school equivalency through the general education development (GED) testing program should send their completed applications and application fee directly to the office of admissions. Both an official copy of the GED results and an official high school transcript of all work completed must be sent to the office of admissions.

Applicants may fulfill the requirements for admission by presenting an International baccalaureate (IB) diploma or certificate. Grades of four through seven in higher-level subjects may be considered for individual course credit. Students with questions about the IB should contact the office of admissions.

All applicants who have been charged with, pled guilty to or convicted of one or more felonies are required to submit copies of police reports, including narratives and the final judgment entries for each offense to the office of admissions. These documents are reviewed, and if an offense is of a violent nature, that information is forwarded and reviewed by a committee of the BG campus to determine if the applicant is eligible to take classes on the BGSU Firelands campus.

For residency requirements for Ohio residents and nonresidents, refer to residency regulations under office of registration and records.

A student who is applying to BGSU Firelands and does not meet the above requirements and who has not attended another college or university for one or more years will be admissible under our forgiveness policy.

History

Effective: July 30, 2018
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-29 Advanced placement and college credit plus- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

(1) College credit plus program

BGSU is aligned with Ohio's college credit plus program. This program provides opportunities for high school students to earn college and high school credits at the same time (dual credit) by taking college courses from community colleges or universities.

(2) Advanced placement

The advanced placement program (AP) enables entering students to earn university credit for college-level courses taken in high school based upon the scores achieved in final examinations. Advanced placement courses and exams are offered through high schools. The score reports are then sent to BGSU for credit review. Current credit guidelines are available from the office of registration and records, transfer evaluation services. More specific information about advanced placement can be found in the undergraduate catalog.

Date: November 1st, 2013

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:00 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-30 Advanced standing- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

Advanced standing may be achieved in six ways:

(1) Demonstrating appropriate achievement on BGSU placement tests, which leads to exemption from courses but not credit.

(2) Passing an examination administered by an academic department of the university (see credit by examination).

(3) Completing a college-level course in high school and earning a prescribed grade in an advanced placement examination administered in the high school through the college entrance examination board (CEEB). This leads to college course credit and/or exemption. (For more information, see advanced placement.)

(4) Attaining appropriate scores on specific CLEP subject examinations. This leads to credit as approved by appropriate academic departments. (Not all academic departments accept credit for completion of CLEP Examinations.) For more information on CLEP subject examinations, contact transfer evaluation services in the office of registration and records. For information on scheduling a CLEP subject examination, contact the counseling center (see CLEP).

(5) Passing a higher-level course in sequence with a grade of "C" or above and thereby earning credit for lower-level sequence courses in prescribed departments.

(6) Admitted students with considerable work/life experience matching specific course content may be eligible for credit through writing a portfolio about what they have learned. Students will be required to complete an interview with the director of adult learner services and a preparatory English course to participate in portfolio assessment.

Date: November 1st, 2013

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:00 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-31 Associate degree programs- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

BGSU Firelands offers courses leading to associate degrees.

(1) General requirements for associate degrees:

A candidate for an associate degree must complete the requirements listed below and any additional requirements set by the college offering this degree.

(a) Satisfy all university entrance requirements.

(b) Earn a minimum of sixty semester hours (some degrees require more than sixty-two hours of credit). At least fifteen credit hours must be BGSU courses. There are no exceptions to either the "sixty total hour" rule or to the "fifteen hours BGSU courses" rule. In addition, to ensure that the program of study is complete, coherent, and satisfies BGSU standards, specific courses that are integral to the degree, as identified in the check sheet for the major, must be taken at BGSU (e.g., capstone courses or similar culminating experience).

(d) Complete the first-year English composition sequence, preferably in the first year.

(e) Complete all course requirements for a degree program as described in the BGSU Firelands section.

(f) Submit an application for graduation.

(i) For graduation in December, an application must be filed by the end of the second week of the fall semester.

(ii) For May graduation, the deadline for filing an application is the end of the second week of the spring semester.

(iii) For graduation in August, the filing date deadline is the end of the first week of the summer semester.

A student who does not fulfill all requirements toward a degree within four weeks after commencement must reapply for graduation at the next commencement.

(C) Equity impact assessment: The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated April 15, 2024 at 8:33 AM

History

Effective: April 15, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-32 Audit- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy explains how students are able to register for courses without receiving credit and the fees that will be incurred for participating in a class as an audit.

(B) Policy

A student who wishes to attend a class without receiving credit for it may register to audit that course. A per-hour instruction fee is charged as if the student had registered for the course for credit. Students may add classes for audit status within seven calendar days from the beginning of classes during fall and spring regular sessions or the first three calendar days of any other session. A student may also change to or from audit status during the first fourteen calendar days of the fall or spring regular sessions or the first five calendar days of any summer session.

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:35 AM

History

Effective: July 25, 2018
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-33 Baccalaureate degree programs- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

A baccalaureate degree program enables students to achieve the intellectual, ethical, and cultural maturity that will allow them to become responsible participants in our society. Each student's path toward this goal is unique, reflecting both the student's interests and talents and the range of opportunities for study. Students make choices among selected sets of courses while satisfying the requirements of a particular degree program, and they are encouraged to take other courses (free electives) to explore individual academic interests.

Students progress toward a baccalaureate degree by completing courses that satisfy a combination of university, college, and major/specialization requirements. Some courses may satisfy more than one requirement, so students should work closely with their advisors to determine which allowable combination will meet their own needs. Other courses may meet a student's particular educational needs yet may not be used to meet degree requirements. These include all developmental courses (below the 1000 level), some courses retaken for credit (see retaking a course) and any courses identified specifically as non-applicable to a degree. Each student is ultimately responsible for knowing which requirements apply.

(1) University requirements

Students in all baccalaureate degree programs, except as exempted below in Section B(6) must:

(a) Earn a minimum of one hundred twenty semester hours of credit. At least thirty credit hours must be BGSU courses. There are no exceptions to either the "one hundred twenty total hour" rule or to the "thirty hours BGSU courses" rule. In addition, to ensure that the program of study is complete, coherent, and satisfies BGSU standards, specific courses that are integral to the degree, as identified in the check sheet for the major, must be taken at BGSU (e.g., capstone courses or similar culminating experience).

(b) (b) Earn an accumulative grade point average of at least two point zero ("C" average) for all coursework attempted.

(c) Complete the BG perspective requirements, including completion of the first-year English composition sequence, preferably in the first year.

(d) Complete at least forty hours of credit in courses numbered 3000 and above.

(e) Satisfy all requirements for a degree listed in one of the college sections of this catalog (see "College requirements" in this policy).

(f) File an application for graduation.

(i) For graduation in December, an application must be filed by the end of the second week of the fall semester.

(ii) For graduation in May, the deadline for filing an application is the end of the second week of the spring semester.

(iii) For graduation in August, the filing deadline is the end of the first week of the summer semester .

A student who does not fulfill all requirements toward a degree within four weeks after commencement must reapply for graduation at the next commencement.

(2) College requirements

The requirements for specific baccalaureate degrees are described in the appropriate college sections of this catalog. These may include any of the following:

(a) Additional study in particular knowledge domains expected of all students in the college but not included in the BG perspective program (for example, courses in mathematics, communications, or language study).

(b) Completion of a major or specialization and, in some cases, a minor (see major/specialization requirements in this policy).

(c) Proficiency in specialized skill areas (for example, aural skills and keyboard proficiency for the bachelor of music degree).

(d) Completion of an internship or cooperative education experience.

(e) Completion of coursework beyond the one hundred twenty credit minimum required by the university.

(f) Attainment of a specified minimum grade in one or more core courses (for example, candidates for the B.S. in education must earn a "C" or better in COMM 1020).

In addition, colleges may specify requirements that degree candidates must meet in order to remain in degree programs. For example, colleges may require a proficiency test, audition, interview, portfolio review, completion of a specific course, or attainment of a specified grade point average before admission to upper-level courses.

(3) Major/specialization requirements

Most (but not all) degrees include requirements for an academic major or specialization. The major provides the student with in-depth practical and theoretical knowledge in one particular area of study. Many majors or specializations offer students alternative paths of study, and students are encouraged to pursue personal interests by taking elective courses related to the major. Study in a major or specialization may focus on courses taught in a single department or program, but may also include related courses in other parts of the university. Some degree programs also require the student to complete a minor, a prescribed set of courses similar to a major but more limited in scope. Students may also voluntarily complete a minor offered by another academic unit.

(4) Minor

A "minor" represents a student's commitment to a body of knowledge separate from the student's principal area of study ("principal area of study" refers to a major, specialization, or-in those cases where a named degree is the sole transcript designation-a named degree). In recognition of this distinction, a minor will include a minimum of fifteen hours that cannot be applied toward the student's principal area of study or another minor.

Any particular minor may or may not be available to a student, depending on the student's principal area of study. In those cases where the courses in the principal area of study overlap broadly with the courses in the minor, such that there are not fifteen hours in the minor different from the courses in the principal area of study, that minor cannot be taken in the context of that principal area of study (e.g., students may not major and minor in the same discipline). Substitutions to course requirements for a minor are the jurisdiction of the program offering the minor.

By contrast, a "specialization" is a requirement for a set of courses representing a sub-discipline within a major or named degree. "Degree," "major," "specialization," and "minor" are all official transcript designations. Other designations, such as concentration, emphasis, option, cognate, or track, do not appear on students' transcripts; they represent unofficial groupings of courses within a principal area of study.

(5) Undergraduate certificate

An undergraduate certificate provides an additional path to recognizing student knowledge in a thematic content area. These certificates would contain a structured set of courses totaling six to fourteen credit hours around a specific theme with clearly defined learning outcomes that enable students to acquire unique knowledge and/or competencies. An undergraduate certificate is an official transcript designation.

(6) Reduced credit hour degrees

Reduced credit hour degrees allow student to accelerate completion of their program of study. Students who are enrolled in a reduced credit hour program and successfully complete all programmatic degree requirements will be exempted from the credit hour requirements identified in Section (B)(1)(a) and (d) of this policy. These students must still meet all college, major/specialization, and minor requirements, which may be associated with their program of student and file an application for graduation.

(7) Dual degree programs

A candidate for a baccalaureate degree who desires to take a second degree from a different college within the university may:

(a) Take work in the second college after graduating from the university or

(b) Qualify for the dual degree program by meeting the requirements listed below.

A student desiring a dual degree must:

(i) Secure permission of the deans of both colleges before the end of the junior year,

(ii) Complete the requirements of both colleges for the degrees sought, and

(iii) Complete at least twenty hours of credit beyond the hours required for a single degree.

Last updated April 16, 2026 at 1:42 PM

History

Effective: January 30, 2026
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-34 BG perspective (general education curriculum) - undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

The BG perspective curriculum provides a liberal studies foundation, preparing BGSU students for self-reliant learning throughout life and effective participation in a democratic society. BG perspective classes, taken by all students at BGSU, reflect a deep conviction by the BGSU learning community and leaders in all professions that successful, satisfying lives require a wide range of skills and knowledge.

The BG perspective requirements, learning outcomes and approved courses are updated periodically and changes are approved by the BG perspective committee and the undergraduate council. Current specific requirements and course listings can be found in the undergraduate catalog http://www.bgsu.edu/bg-perspective.html.

The BG perspective requirements and learning outcomes are aligned with the university system of Ohio's articulation and transfer policy. The Ohio transfer module ensures that students can transfer applicable credits among Ohio's public colleges and universities. More specific information about the evaluation of transfer courses for BG perspective credit can be found in the undergraduate catalog under transfer module for institutional credit transfer http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies/transfer-module-for-institutional- credit-transfer.html and BG perspective (general education) credit for transfer students http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies/bg-perspective-credit-for-transfer -students.html.

Student appeals of BG perspective credit for courses follows a formal appeals process http://www.bgsu.edu/bg-perspective/student-appeals.html.

Date: January 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:04 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-35 Changing undergraduates colleges, majors, or degree programs within BGSU- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

Sometimes a change of major or degree program may also involve a change of college. Students may have entered BGSU as undecided, have not been able to complete their current major or degree as planned, or have different career goals than when they first entered BGSU. In addition to consulting with their advisors, students are strongly encouraged to contact the career center (419-372-2356) for assistance in career planning and to identify careers that align with their interests, values, and skills.

A student who wishes to change a major or degree program within a college should notify the college office. At that time, an appropriate advisor will be assigned.

A student who wishes to change from a major in one college to a major in another college should consult a college advisor in the intended college about eligibility and requirements for the intended college and degree program (see associate degree programs or baccalaureate degree programs). Academic advisors are available in the intended college office to (1) help students select the degree program that best meets individual needs and interests, and (2) review the requirements of the intended major or degree program to assure that a student's plan of study will meet the entry and program requirements.

Following the student's consultation with a college advisor, a determination is made by the intended college office to approve or not to approve the transfer. The intended college dean's (or designee's) signature on the college transfer form is the record of approval to transfer. If transfer to the intended college is not approved, a college transfer form will not be issued or signed. In either case, the student will be notified of the college's decision. A copy of the signed form indicating approval to transfer is given to the student and a copy is sent to the student's current college. Once a student's current college receives a signed college transfer form, that college will transmit the student's file to the new college.

Date: January 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:05 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-36 Classification of undergraduate students- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

Classification of a student as a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior is determined on the basis of credit hours earned. In an undergraduate degree program a student is classified according to hours earned as follows: freshman, zero to twenty-nine hours; sophomore, thirty to fifty-nine hours; junior, sixty to eighty-nine hours; senior, ninety or more hours.

A student who is enrolled for undergraduate coursework but who does not have a degree goal is a guest undergraduate. A student who has earned a degree and who registers for undergraduate courses without pursuing another degree enrolls as a guest degree-holder.

Date: January 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:05 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-37 Concurrent enrollment- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

Concurrent enrollment at Bowling Green state university and the university of Toledo allows a student with at least a two point zero GPA to take courses at both universities and receive credit toward a degree. To be enrolled concurrently during a single semester, a student must be registered for at least one course at both institutions. If a Bowling Green student takes all courses at Toledo during a single semester, then that student must register at the university of Toledo as a transient or guest student. See BGSU students enrolled as guests at another institution. University of Toledo students are admitted to BGSU as guest students to participate in this program.

Under this policy, the university that has most recently granted formal admission to the student is designated as the home university. The other university is the host institution.

A student registering for at least one course at both universities and for eight hours or more of coursework at the home university shall pay all fees to the home university. If a student registers for fewer than eight hours at the home university, instructional, general, and nonresident fees are to be paid at the separate universities. Special course fees are payable to the teaching institution.

All coursework taken under concurrent registration will be registered at each university. It will be included in the calculation of a student's grade point average at the home university. Students must obtain the approval of the proposed course work from the office of the dean of their college before enrolling in concurrent courses at the university of Toledo.

Coursework completed at the university of Toledo may not be used to delete an "F" or other low grades previously earned at Bowling Green state university in grade point average computation.

Concurrent enrollment forms are available through the office of registration and records at either institution (see BGSU office of registration and records).

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:35 AM

History

Effective: July 10, 2018
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-38 Undergraduate credit by examination- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

An undergraduate student currently registered for at least two semester hours may gain credit by examination with the approval of the student's dean and the department involved. The minimum registration level must be maintained for the entire semester. The student wishing credit in a course must not have enrolled in the course previously and must present sufficient evidence of prior study or experience. The course cannot be a prerequisite for any course the student has completed. Once approved, the examination must be completed within four weeks of the approval. This option may not be repeated. An eighty dollar fee is assessed for a credit-by-exam course. Credits by examination are graded on an "S/U" basis. Further information on procedures is available at the student's college office.

Credit may be earned by attainment of appropriate score levels on selected subject examinations of the college level examination program (CLEP). A student may also receive credit for coursework taken at another institution, in which the final grades were equivalent to "C" or better but which did not transfer because of BGSU policies, by taking a validation examination.

A student in the school of nursing may validate previous nursing knowledge through transfer credit, testing, certification, or portfolio.

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:35 AM

History

Effective: July 10, 2018
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-39 Disbursement of student financial aid- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This is a policy about financial aid disbursement. Student financial aid http://www.bgsu.edu/admissions/scholarships-and-financial-aid.html

(B) Policy

With the exception of federal work study, some departmental scholarships and all outside scholarships, financial aid processed by student financial aid (SFA) will automatically be disbursed to students' bursar accounts, provided that their application is complete and they have met the requirements for each aid type. Title IV funds can be disbursed up to ten days prior to the first day of classes for a term. The student is awarded aid for the entire academic year; however, the aid is disbursed proportionately each term.

Prior to the beginning of the term, any confirmed financial aid for that term will be listed as anticipated aid (estimated payment) against a student's university charges. The student will then be asked either to pay the balance of the charges or make payment arrangements. Information about BGSU's installment payment plan and other payment arrangements will be included with the bursar statement.

If a student is offered student loans, both a master promissory note and entrance counseling must be completed online at studentLoans.gov. Private scholarship checks received by the university will be directly applied to the student's bursar account (unless otherwise specified by the scholarship donor). Once SFA is notified of a private scholarship, it will be listed as part of the student's aid package.

When the semester begins, anticipated aid will be changed to disbursed aid on the bursar account, provided the student is registered for the appropriate number of credit hours and has met individual program requirements. Federal financial aid will first be used to pay university housing and meals, instructional, general, and non-resident fees, and special course fees. Some forms of aid, especially federal student aid, are restricted as to what portion of the bill they can pay. Allowable charges for federal aid include, for example, the instructional and general fees. Other miscellaneous charges, such as the legal fee or parking fee may not be covered. We encourage students to review their bills regularly, and contact the office of the bursar with any questions.

If the student's aid exceeds the direct costs billed by the university, the difference is refunded to the student to assist with other educational expenses such as books, supplies, transportation, etc. The office of the bursar issues the refund within fourteen days unless there is a signed agreement on file to hold excess aid for a future session billing.

Additional information can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/admissions/scholarships-and-financial-aid.html

Date: February 2nd, 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:05 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-40 Dropping, adding, and changing the grading option- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

During the fall and spring regular sessions, a student may enroll in a course within seven calendar days from the beginning of classes; fourteen calendar days are allowed for a student to change the grading option without college approval or to drop a course with no record on the transcript. During other sessions, students may enroll in courses during the first three calendar days of a given session; five calendar days are allowed for a student to change the grading option or drop a course with no record on the transcript.

After the above deadlines, a student may choose to change the grade option for a course with the approval of the college in which they are enrolled. The student is responsible for filing a schedule change form in the college office on or before the last day of the twelfth week of fall and spring regular sessions. For all other sessions, the student is responsible for filing a schedule change form in the college office before the eighty per cent completion date.

After these dates exceptions may be granted only by the dean of the student's college. For information about withdrawing from a course after the drop date, see grading policies. Students should also consult the grading policies for a discussion of the S/U grading option.

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:36 AM

History

Effective: July 10, 2018
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-41 FERPA rights.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy explains the students' rights regarding their academic records in accordance with FERPA.

(B) Policy

The federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. They include:

(1) The right to inspect and review the student's education records within forty-five days of the day the university receives a request for access.

(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.

(4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. dept. of education concerning alleged failures by Bowling Green state university to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

Students are notified of their FERPA rights annually by publication in the student affairs handbook.

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:36 AM

History

Effective: March 23, 2017
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-42 Financial aid packaging- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This is a policy about financial aid packaging. Student financial aid http://www.bgsu.edu/admissions/scholarships-and-financial-aid.html

(B) Policy

If you are eligible and aid funds are available, you will receive a "package" composed of funds from different sources. These funds are combined with your resources in an attempt to meet your financial need. The types and amounts of financial aid in your package are limited by regulatory maximums, your academic class status (freshman, sophomore, etc.), grade point average, fund availability, your enrollment status (full- or part-time), and your level of need. Keep in mind that your financial aid package may change as a result of new application data, the verification process, changes in your enrollment status, or office error.

Following the receipt of your FAFSA results, a financial aid "package" will be offered to you. The financial aid package will contain one or a combination of grants, scholarships, loans, and/or work study. Grants and scholarships are sources of student financial aid which are available for education expenses with no requirement to repay. Student loans are the most common source of student financial aid and must be repaid. Students receiving a loan are required to sign a promissory note which details the conditions of the loan. Finally, you may receive work study eligibility which requires you secure a job before receiving funds.

Criteria for selecting recipients for financial aid awards vary. Federal loans, federal Pell grant, federal TEACH grant, and state grants are awarded to students who meet eligibility requirements specific to each of those programs. Additional information about applying for and receiving federal student aid may be found on the department of education's website: https://studentaid.ed.gov.

FSEOG, federal Perkins loan and federal work study are subject to funding limitations. Because finding for these programs is limited, BGSU uses a priority FAFSA filing date of February fifteenth to encourage undergraduate students to apply early and ensure they can be considered for these award program. Awards are made through an automated selection process. Award amounts will depend on annual funding limitations.

Scholarships from BGSU always have award-specific criteria and also limited funds. Most BGSU scholarship criteria can be found by using the searchable scholarship guide or by contacting the department or agency awarding the scholarship. Most scholarships are awarded through a selection process where applications are evaluated by a scholarship selection committee.

Date: February 2nd, 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:06 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-43 First day attendance policy- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

Some classes are designated as "first day attendance"; others are not. The following policy applies only to classes designated as "first day attendance."

(1) For students

As a matter of policy, all students who register for a class with a first day attendance designation agree to participate in and abide by the following:

(a) Students should attend the first day of class, or consult with the instructor before the first class meeting regarding any potentially excusable circumstance that will make it impossible for the student to attend the first class meeting. Students accept that if they do not attend and do not contact the instructor before the first class meeting they will be dropped from the class.

(b) If students wish to drop the class, they should do so before the first day of class. This policy should not be used as a mechanism for students to drop classes.

(d) Students whose registration falls below full-time status because of being dropped will be eligible for only a partial refund of fees if applicable.

(e) Students high on a wait list are encouraged to attend on the first day (although they may be turned away if there is physically not room for them), in the event registered students do not attend, so that they will not miss material/activities on the first day of class. However, the department holds the responsibility for adding students to the class. Priority is given to students on a wait list to get into that class.

(2) For instructors:

As a matter of policy, all instructors who have a first day attendance designation to their class agree to participate in and abide by the following:

(a) Instructors should take attendance using the most accurate roster possible.

(b) Instructors should report to the department, within one business day of the first class meeting, all students not attending the class regardless of class enrollment level. An exception can be made if the student has an excusable circumstance and has contacted the instructor prior to the first class meeting.

(3) For departments:

As a matter of policy, all departments that assign a first day attendance designation to a class agree to participate in and abide by the following:

(a) Departments are responsible for dropping students who do not attend on the first day of class. (Alternatively, they may forward attendance lists to the office of registration and records for action by the registrar.) This must be done within two business days of the first class meeting. Each department shall determine its own uniform procedure for processing drops in a timely fashion.

(b) Departments are responsible for emailing all dropped students informing them of this action.

(c) Departments who designate a class as a "first day attendance policy" class but who repeatedly do not abide by this policy will not be allowed by the college office to use the designation in the future.

(d) Departments are responsible for filling seats made vacant because of first-day drops. Priority is given to students on a wait list to get into that class.

Date: January 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:06 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-44 Foreign language undergraduate admission requirement- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

Admission to Bowling Green state university includes a requirement for a language other than English. This requirement applies only to students seeking a baccalaureate degree. The requirement is typically satisfied through completion of two units of the same language other than English in high school.

(1) If this requirement is not fulfilled at the time of admission to the university, it may be satisfied in one of three ways:

(a) Students who have not completed study of a language other than English in high school, may successfully complete two semesters of the same language (other than English) at the university level.

(b) Students who have acquired a language other than English through life experience or who have learned it through prior study may take credit by examination.

(c) International students whose native language is not English may be exempted by proficiency or by successful completion of ESOL 1000, ESOL 1010, ESOL 1030, and ESOL 1040. A student's score on the English proficiency test determines the required courses in this sequence. For more information, see the international students admission policy, which is available here.

(2) The following conditions and stipulations also apply:

(a) Students who have a documented (through disabilities services) learning disability in acquisition of a new language may substitute courses taught in English, from BGSU's existing list of acceptable substitute courses.

(b) American sign language will fulfill this admission requirement.

(d) The foreign language admission requirement will apply to transfer students who have completed fewer than thirty semester hours of credit-bearing post-secondary courses, but will not apply to those students who have completed thirty or more semester hours of credit-bearing post-secondary courses at BGSU Firelands or at another college or university (as per the transfer students policy).

The foreign language admission requirement is to apply for students admitted for fall semester 2007 and thereafter.

Date: November 1st, 2013

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:07 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-45 General library use policy - undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy provides general guidelines and rules for use of the William T. Jerome library and its associated facilities.

(B) Policy

(1) University libraries staff are committed to providing:

(a) A welcoming environment that is safe for both individuals and the collections.

(b) Space that is conducive to academic research activities, including both quiet and group study.

(d) Access to the library collections and collections from other institutions.

(e) Courteous and respectful service.

(2) The following policies support these commitments. Failure to observe the policies may result in being asked to leave the library or being referred to campus security or other relevant university authorities.

(a) Computer workstations are primarily for the use of BGSU faculty, staff, and students. Visitors can login as guests during non-busy times when many computers are available or can access the wireless network for their own device from the BGSU ITS homepage. Use of computers and other campus technology is governed by ITS policy

(b) The group study rooms on the first and seventh floors are available without reservation. In consideration of others, please limit your use to three hours per day and do not hold the room by leaving personal property in the space. The group rooms are intended for use by two or more people, but individuals are welcome to use unoccupied rooms.

(c) Minors who are not affiliated with the institution or part of a university-approved group must be supervised by a responsible adult while in the library.

(d) Patrons whose behavior interferes with the use of the library by others may be asked to leave. Examples of prohibited behavior include creating offensive odors or excessive noise.

(e) Per university policy, bikes, skateboards, skates, scooters, and other recreational wheeled devices are not allowed in the library. ADA assistive devices and baby strollers are welcome. Items can be attached to the racks located outside the library but may not block walkways.

(f) Patrons must be fully clothed, including having a shirt and shoes, to be allowed in the library.

(g) At closing, all patrons are required to leave the building.

(h) Food and beverages are allowed except where otherwise indicated.

(i) Mutilation of materials, vandalism, and unauthorized removal of library materials are prohibited by state law (Section 2909.05 of the Revised Code) and are violations of the student code. A charge will be assessed for damaging library materials. An additional replacement and processing fee will be assessed for material that is no longer usable.

(j) Smoking and vaping are not permitted in the libraries.

(k) Animals for scheduled programs and service animals, as defined by the ADA, are welcome. Assistance animals (also known as emotional support or comfort animals) are not allowed in the building per university policy.

(l) The public address system is for employee use only. We will only take requests to page individuals for emergency situations.

(m) Signs, flyers, and other publications promoting events, clubs, etc., are permitted only on the designated bulletin boards on the first, seventh, and eighth floors. Signs without visible contact information or that are out of date will be removed.

(n) Persons may not engage in collecting signatures, canvassing on behalf of candidates for public office or ballot issues, soliciting sales for a business, or distributing leaflets inside the library. People engaging in these activities outside the building or the library's associated facilities shall not block, hinder, interfere, or otherwise impede persons from entering or exiting or from accessing book returns.

(o) Harassment or intimidation of library users or staff will not be tolerated and will be reported to campus police.

(p) Viewing of controversial and sensitive material

University libraries resist censorship of information and strongly support the principle of intellectual freedom, and thus support an individual's right to view controversial and sensitive material in the library. However, viewing sexually explicit or violent images or videos at a public computer workstation can be offensive and even threatening to other library users and employees. If UL staff members receive complaints about material that a reasonable person would consider objectionable, the library user viewing the material will be asked to stop or move to a less public location.

Equity impact statement: The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated August 19, 2024 at 8:52 AM

History

Effective: August 19, 2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-46 Grading policies- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

(1) Grading system

Courses are graded as follows:

(a) Aexcellent

(b) Bgood

(d) Dpoor but passing

(e) Ffailure

(f) Wwithdrawn

(g) WFwithdrawn failing

(h) INCincomplete

(i) Iincomplete calculated as F

(j) IPin progress

(k) Ssatisfactory

(l) Uunsatisfactory

(m) NCno credit

(n) NGRno grade report by instructor

A student who wishes to attend a class without receiving credit for it may register to audit that course (see audit).

(2) S/U grading

Certain courses (including student teaching, some internships and remedial courses) are graded "S/U" only and are so indicated in the course descriptions. "S" means satisfactory and indicates course credit was earned. "U" means unsatisfactory and indicates no credit. Courses taken under credit by exam and portfolio assessment are considered "S/U" and do not count as letter-graded hours.

A student may also elect an "S/U" grading option in no more than sixteen credit hours in a baccalaureate degree program (beyond those hours graded "S/U" only, as described in the previous paragraph). Any "S/U" hours beyond this limit will not count toward graduation. Many departments do not accept courses taken under the "S/U" option for credit in major or minor requirements; students should consult an advisor. For more information on deadlines to change the grading option, see dropping, adding and changing the grade option.

Students should carefully consider the following before choosing the S/U grade option:

(a) Within the S/U option, work at the level of "C" or better is needed to pass (that is, earn an "S"); within the letter grade option, by contrast, a "D" is a passing grade;

(b) All work is evaluated by a common standard, regardless of grading option;

(d) If a student receives an "S" in an elective course, but then changes majors, the new major may require the course be taken for a grade. In those cases, the student may appeal retroactively for a change in grade option (and therefore receive a letter grade).

(e) More than twelve semester hours of "S/U" grades may increase the grade point average needed for graduation with honors. See graduation with honors.

Because of these and other considerations, students should consult an advisor before choosing the S/U grading option.

(3) "No credit" grading

In the event that the grade option is "A/B/C/NC" or "S/NC," all grades will appear on the student's record, though a grade of "no credit" will not affect the accumulative grade point average. A student may receive a grade of "F" in courses with the "no credit" grading option.

(4) Impact of course drops and withdrawals on grading. A grade of "W" is given if a student formally withdraws from a course after the drop deadline (see drop/add policy) but before the end of the twelfth week of a course in a fifteen-week session. The student is responsible for filing a course withdrawal request that also notifies the instructor (withdrawal form) on or before the last day of the twelfth week. For all other sessions, a "W" is assigned if a student withdraws after completing at least thirteen per cent but not more than eighty per cent of the contact hours of the session. The student is responsible for filing a course withdrawal request that also notifies the instructor before the eighty per cent completion date.

(5) A grade of "F" (failing) is assigned under the following circumstances:

(a) The student withdraws after the intervals described in this policy;

(b) The student stops attending the class without processing a withdrawal;

These provisions apply to the A-F, the S/U and the "No Credit" grading systems. Students taking courses that are graded S/U or No Credit should be aware that it is possible to earn a grade of "F" if they do not follow the guidelines for withdrawing from a course.

See Incomplete marks, in this policy.

(6) Grade point average

For calculating the student's grade point average, the following quality points are assigned to each letter grade:

(a) For each hour of A, four points

(b) For each hour of B, three points

(d) For each hour of D, one point

(e) For each hour of F or WF, zero points

(f) For each hour of I, zero points

The grade of "WF" is used with zero quality points in computing the grade point average; "W' is not used in computing the grade point average.

For courses graded S/U, grades falling within the range of "A" to "C" are interpreted as "S" and earn course credit. Grades in the range of "D" to "F" are interpreted as "U" and do not earn course credit. In any case, "S" and "U" grades do not affect the accumulative grade point average.

For courses graded "A/B/C/NC," grades of "A," "B," or "C" are calculated according to assigned quality points. A grade of "NC" does not earn course credit and does not affect the accumulative grade point average.

A student's grade point average is obtained by dividing the total number of quality points earned by the total number of hours taken, excluding courses in which the marks "S,""U,""IP,""INC," "NC," or "W" are recorded. The hours for which a mark of "INC" is recorded are excluded from grade point average computation until the deadline for removal.

As an example, suppose a student receives the following grades for a semester:

(i) Biology (a four-hour course) B

(ii) English (a three-hour course) B

(iii) French (a four-hour course) C

(iv) Health (a three-hour course) A

First, determine the number of quality points earned for each course. For example, each hour of B is worth three points and a four-hour B is worth twelve points (three times four).

Therefore, the above grades translate into quality points as follows:

4 times 3 (B) = 12

3 times 3 (B) = 9

4 times 2 (C) = 8

+3 times 4 (A) = 12

14 hours-- quality points

Now, divide the number of quality points by the number of hours taken for a letter grade. The grade point average for this sample schedule is (forty-one/fourteen=two point nine two). Grade point averages are not rounded up to the nearest hundredth of a point.

(g) Incomplete marks

The mark of "INC" (incomplete) may be given when, for some acceptable reason, a student fails to complete one or more requirements in a course as established by the instructor. The INC mark is not counted in grade point average. The mark of "INC" may be removed and a grade (if taken for a grade) or the letter "S" (if taken "S/U") may be substituted for it by a student making up the deficiencies to the satisfaction of the instructor.

An INC mark that is not converted to another grade by the grading deadline for the next semester (summer session excluded) becomes an F (for U if an S/U course) and is calculated in the grade point average. A request for an extension of time may be granted by the academic dean. Any INC mark at graduation will impede graduation until the mark is converted to a final grade.

(h) Grade appeals

Students have a right to appeal decisions on grades. The student should first contact the department from which the grade was received. A member of each department, who is not a major departmental administrator, is designated to hear complaints, gather information, talk with both students and faculty, mediate disputes or identify appropriate channels for solving problems. If the dispute cannot be resolved at this level then the student should state the full particulars of the appeal in writing and submit them to the department chair or policy committee. If the matter is not resolved at the department level, the student may request a hearing before the academic arbitration board of the appropriate school or college. However, the sole responsibility and authority for determining grades rests with the faculty member who assigned the grade. This appeals procedure also may be used if a student believes an opportunity should be provided to make up work missed during absence from classes.

The grade appeals procedure must be started by the end of the fifth week of the spring semester for grades received during fall semester and by the end of the fifth week of fall semester for grades received during the spring semester or during the summer semester. All actions for grade changes must be completed during the semester in which the grade is appealed. Grade and absence grievances may not be appealed beyond the college level.

The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated April 21, 2023 at 8:41 AM

History

Effective: April 21, 2023
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-47 Guest undergraduate students- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy explains the requirements for students wishing to study at BGSU without applying to a degree seeking program. This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

Any person who has graduated from high school (or earned the GED equivalent) or any person who has attended another university may apply as a guest student. Such a student is not required to submit a high school transcript or ACT or SAT results. Guest students are not eligible for financial aid. Any coursework taken as a guest student will be applicable to a degree program once the student is formally admitted. A guest student is limited to taking sixteen hours of credit without formal admission to the university. The sixteen-hour credit limit shall include all credit hours attempted by the student. If a student fails a class, those hours will be included in the sixteen-hour limit. Once the sixteen-hour credit limit has been reached, the student must apply for formal admission through the office of admissions. Permission to exceed the sixteen-hour credit limit must be obtained from the office of admissions.

(1)

A guest student is required to apply each semester to the office of registration and records. Such a student will register on dates established by the office of registration and records. A guest student may register for undergraduate courses only (4000-level courses or below).

Students who have been denied formal admission to the university cannot enroll as guest students without the permission of the office of admissions. Such a student must contact the office of admissions to receive permission to register as a guest student. A guest student's registration will be withdrawn if it is discovered subsequently that he or she has been denied formal admission and is enrolled without the permission of the office of admissions.

(2) Guest degree holder

A student who has earned a four-year degree in higher education and who wishes to enroll in undergraduate courses without pursuing another degree may enroll as a guest degree holder. Guest degree holders may register for undergraduate courses only (4000-level courses or below). There is no limit to the number of credits a guest degree holder may earn at the university.

The only admission requirement for a guest degree holder is a completed undergraduate guest application, as well as, official confirmation from the appropriate institution of the highest degree received. Students not in continuous attendance must resubmit an undergraduate guest application in order to have access to the registration system. Information regarding registration for succeeding semester may be found here.

(3) Other types of guest students:

(a) Post secondary enrollment options

The post secondary enrollment options program provides qualified high school freshmen through seniors who attend public and chartered non-public Ohio high schools the opportunity to enrich their educational experience by enrolling in college-level coursework. The application and credential deadline for fall semester is April fifteenth and for the spring semester November fifteenth. For additional information contact the office of admissions.

(b) International guest

Non-U.S. citizens can apply as guest students only through the center for international programs. Students currently enrolled in high school who wish to take courses at BGSU should contact the office of admissions.

Before enrolling at another institution, students are encouraged to verify with the office of registration and records the equivalency of courses from another institution to BGSU courses and to consult with their college advisors concerning the applicability of the courses to their degree program. Grades earned at the other institutions do not become part of the student's record at BGSU but are included in the determination of all honors, and eligibility for some programs.

Applications to register as a guest student may be obtained on-line or an email can be generated to have an application sent by U.S. mail. Applications may be picked up in person at the registration offices on main campus or the Firelands branch in Huron, OH.

Last updated July 10, 2025 at 12:14 PM

History

Effective: July 26, 2018
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-48 International students- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

International applicants whose native language is not English are required to submit evidence of English language skills in the form of an official test of English as a foreign language (TOEFL), a Michigan English language assessment battery (MELAB), or an international English language testing system (IELTS) score. BGSU requires a TOEFL score of at least five hundred (paper based), one hundred seventy-three (computer based), or sixty-one (internet based); a MELAB score of at least sixty-nine; or an IELTS score of at least six point zero.

Additionally, all international applicants whose native language is not English are required to take an English proficiency test upon reporting to the university and before registering for classes. International students transferring from other colleges or universities in the United States as well as students from Puerto Rico are also required to take these tests. Depending on a student's placement score, the university reserves the right to require enrollment in and successful completion of English courses leading to the proficiency level expected in ESOL 1010 & 1040: ESOL 1000, ESOL 1010, ESOL 1030, and ESOL 1040. The university may also limit the number of courses taken for credit.

Date: January 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:07 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-50 Registration for undergraduate classes- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

Registration for the fall and spring semesters consists of two phases: continuing student registration and open registration. During the summer semester, only open registration is used.

Continuing student registration allows currently enrolled students and former students who have readmitted access to the registration system in accordance with the enrollment appointment schedule. New students customarily enroll during an orientation/registration program that also involves placement testing and an introduction to the campus. Guest students must complete a guest application form before participating in open registration, and former students must be readmitted. Applications for readmission and guest student applications can be obtained from the office of registration and records and from the registration and records web site:http://www.bgsu.edu/registration-records.html. Applications for admission as a degree-seeking student can be obtained from the office of admissions, 110 McFall center, 419-372-2478.

All tuition/fees are due and payable prior to the first official day of the semester. If payment or an approved payment arrangement is outstanding, the registration is subject to being cancelled and/or the assessment of late fees and service charges.

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:37 AM

History

Effective: July 9, 2018
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-51 Repeated coursework, enrollment status and financial aid- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Ensure Title IV funds are being awarded/disbursed in accordance with federal regulations governing enrollment status eligibility. This is a policy about the effect of enrollment status and retaking coursework provisions and limitations on financial aid.

(B) Policy

You may count toward enrollment status and award Title IV funds to a student who is repeating, for the first time only (i.e. one repetition per class), a previously passed course in a term-based program. Students enrolled in a non-term-based programs may not receive credit for retaking coursework. For this purpose, passed means any grade higher than an "F," regardless of any school or program policy requiring a higher qualitative grade or measurement to have been considered to have passed the course.

A student may be repeatedly paid for repeatedly failing the same course (normal satisfactory academic progress policy still applies to such cases). However, if a student passes a class once and then is repaid for retaking it and fails the second time, that failure counts as their paid retake and the student may not be paid for retaking the class a third time.

Date: January 27th, 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:08 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-52 Retaking an undergraduate course- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

If a student retakes a course at the university, it must be retaken under the same grading option as selected initially.

If a student retakes a course at the university the following conditions apply:

(1) Students may repeat undergraduate courses no more than two times (a maximum of three attempts per course) Withdrawal from a course is counted as an attempt. (Courses designated as "repeatable for credit" are exempt from the three-attempt limit.)

(2) If a student retakes a course at the university in which a grade of "U" was received, it will have no effect on the cumulative grade point average.

(3) Retaking the course removes the hours and the effect of the earlier grades from the calculation of the GPA. However, all grades appear on the permanent academic record (transcript). The highest grade earned is the one used to calculate the GPA, and only that instance's credit hours are accepted toward any requirements for graduation. A "W" will not replace a previous grade.

(4) The retake policy does not apply to any punitive grade awarded as a result of an academic honesty case. In this case students may retake these courses, but both grades will be used in the calculation of the cumulative grade point average.

(5) If a student receives a grade of "F," "I," "U," or "WF" in a course and then receives credit for that course by successful completion of a similar course at another institution, the credit hours and quality points for the first registration at BGSU will continue to be used in computing the student's grade point average.

(6) Retaking a course after graduation will not change the student's undergraduate GPA or honors status.

The policy has been assessed for adverse differential impact on members of one or more protected groups.

Last updated April 21, 2023 at 8:41 AM

History

Effective: April 21, 2023
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-53 Revision of a financial aid award package- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This is a policy about the revision of a financial aid award package. Student financial aid http://www.bgsu.edu/admissions/scholarships-and-financial-aid.html

(B) Policy

Based on a change in your eligibility, your enrollment, or an office or agency error, your financial aid may be revised at any time. If your financial aid has already been credited to your bursar account, you may be responsible for partial or full repayment of the funds, regardless of the reason for the adjustment. Financial aid is contingent upon many factors, including availability of federal, state, and institutional funding. SFA has the right to review, adjust, and cancel a financial aid award at any time due to changes in your financial or academic status or your failure to provide requested documentation.

As required by federal, state and institutional guidelines, revision of your aid package may occur if:

(1) Your aid was based on inaccurate or false information (including estimated income data or grade level)

(2) SFA or another agency made an error in determining your eligibility for, or disbursement of, your financial aid awards.

(3) The amount of financial aid awarded to you exceeds your calculated financial need.

(4) You do not maintain satisfactory academic progress.

(5) You fail to meet enrollment, grade point average, participation, or other requirements required by a specific award.

(6) You drop classes or withdraw from BGSU.

(7) You were selected for verification and completion of the verification process changes your eligibility. In verification, SFA must check the accuracy of the data you report on your FAFSA (free application for federal student aid).

Date: February 2nd, 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:08 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-54 Satisfactory academic progress and financial aid- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

Satisfactory academic progress to be eligible for federal student aid funds, a student must make satisfactory academic progress in both qualitative and quantitative criteria.

(B) Policy

Financial aid academic progress is assessed according to qualitative, quantitative and maximum time frame measures that are described within this policy. All measures must be met for continued aid eligibility. Students failing to meet any single measure of satisfactory academic policy may request re-consideration through an appeal process. This policy assesses all students equally regardless of enrollment status hours. SFA will evaluate SAP annually, place students on probation who are not meeting any one or more of the standard measures for assessment, and require students to fulfill the terms of an academic plan to qualify for further funds.

(1) Satisfactory academic progress requires financial aid recipients to do the following:

(a) Be admitted into a degree/certificate seeking program.

(b) Meet minimum cumulative grade point averages.

(d) Complete the degree/certificate program within the maximum attempted hours.

(2) Programs governed by this policy:

(a) Federal Pell grant

(b) Federal supplemental educational opportunity grant (SEOG)

(d) Federal direct subsidized and unsubsidized loans

(e) Federal direct parent loans for undergraduate students (PLUS)

(f) Federal direct graduate PLUS

(g) Federal teacher education assistance for college and higher education grant (TEACH)

(h) Iraq and Afghanistan service grant

(i) Federal work study

(j) Nursing loans

(k) State scholarship and grant programs (example: Ohio college opportunity grant)

(l) BGSU sponsored scholarship and grant programs

(m) Private alternative loan programs (depends on the lender)

(n) BGSU short term emergency loan programs

When it is determined a student has failed to meet any one or more measures of SAP, the student's financial aid eligibility will be suspended. Appeals may be submitted if there are mitigating circumstances that warrant a student to continue to receive funds. Appeals must be submitted by the following dates to be considered for eligibility for that semester:

(i) Summer July first

(ii) Fall October first

(iii) Spring March first

SFA has the final authority to determine if financial aid will be extended or denied to a student. Decisions made by an SFA counselor or the SFA committee are conclusive and cannot be appealed.

Date: January 27th, 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:08 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-55 Scholarship appeal-undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy outlines the scholarship appeal process to allow a student to petition to receive his/her scholarship(s) after not meeting the minimum cGPA and course load requirements.

(B) Policy

A student's cGPA is reviewed annually, after spring term, to determine if his/her scholarship(s) will automatically be renewed or if the scholarship(s) will be revoked. A student who does not meet the scholarship renewal criteria is given the opportunity to appeal the decision to suspend his/her scholarship(s) based on extenuating circumstances. The student must complete the scholarship appeal form supplying detailed information explaining the circumstance and provide documentation to support the appeal. Once the appeal is received, the scholarship committee will meet to discuss the appeal, and subsequently render a decision to either approve or deny the appeal. The scholarship committee has the final authority to determine if the scholarship(s) will be extended or denied a student. Decisions made by the scholarship committee are conclusive and cannot be appealed.

A student may also complete a scholarship appeal form to appeal to use his/her scholarship(s) in the summer term or at a less than full-time course load, with the understanding that this will count as a full term of usage toward the maximum eight terms of eligibility. Students wishing to utilize one of these options must complete a scholarship appeal form requesting to use their funds.

(1) Scholarship renewal requires the following:

(a) Students in cohorts prior to 2138 must maintain two point seventy five cGPA and a full-time course load at the end of the spring term.

(b) Students in cohorts 2138 or after must maintain a three point zero cGPA and a full-time course load at the end of the spring term.

(2) Reasons for appeal approval:

(a) Documented medical issues which have since been resolved. If a student does not submit the medical documentation showing dates of illness and the prognosis, the appeal can either be denied, or the committee can request additional documentation from the student.

(b) Documented family situation which adversely affected student's ability to concentrate (such as family issues at home when student started/attended college, death in the family or a close relative (would need documentation showing the date of death of the relative), etc.).

(c) The student realizes that he/she didn't focus on school initially and are now making improvement in their GPA by utilizing various support services across campus.

(d) Using a scholarship at less than full-time enrollment. This appeal type still counts as one term of scholarship usage even though the scholarship value may be reduced below what is typically awarded during a "regular" semester of full-time enrollment.

(e) Summer usage of a scholarship.

(f) Students who have not attended classes for more than one semester (usually due to co-ops, study abroad, or stopping out), who have had their scholarships removed.

(3) Reasons for appeal denial:

(a) Adjustment to college and the coursework rigor required in college

(b) Homesickness

(d) Student has used all eight semesters of their scholarship eligibility. Appeals are not granted for additional terms because the student added another major, changed majors, etc.

(e) Students requesting to use all of his/her scholarship monies within one semester. The excess scholarship funds which a student doesn't utilize (due to an early graduation, for example) cannot be "cashed out" or applied to one semester of fees due.

Date: February 4th, 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:09 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-56 Student Appeals- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

Appeals for waivers or substitutions of requirements are processed through the student's college office and may require consultations, recommendations, or approvals from other offices. Substitutions in the major, for example, require a recommendation from the department that teaches that major. Substitutions in the minor require approval from the department or college that teaches that minor, even if it is not in the college of the student's major.

Date: November 1st, 2013

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:09 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-57 Transfer admissions- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

(1) Students who have attempted twelve or more hours, excluding remedial or developmental courses since high school, at a college or university other than Bowling Green state university, are considered transfer applicants. Transfer students must have a minimum accumulative grade point average (GPA), among all schools, of two point zero or better on a four-point scale. Some transfer students may be eligible for admissions priority, including:

(a) Ohio residents with an associate degree, a completed Ohio transfer module, and a GPA of two point zero for all previous college-level courses have admissions priority over out-of-state associate degree graduates and transfer students.

(b) Associate degree holders who do not have a completed Ohio transfer module will be eligible for preferential admissions if they have a GPA of at least two point zero for all previous college-level courses.

(c) Students who are not enrolled in A.A., A.S. or Applied Associate degree programs but who have earned sixty semester or ninety quarter hours or more of credit toward a baccalaureate degree with a GPA of at least two point zero for all previous college-level courses will be eligible for preferential consideration for admission as transfer students.

Admission to the university does not guarantee admission into a specific college or major/program. Students not only transfer into the university but also, eventually, into a specific college and major/program within the university. Those colleges and majors/programs may have additional requirements (including higher GPAs, courses, etc.) to those required for admission to the university. Prospective transfer students should consult college advisors for advice about curricular planning and about college policies that may affect their academic career.

(2) Transfer students must demonstrate competence in English/writing, mathematics, and reading through course credit or placement exams before advancing to degree completion. Main campus students should contact the office of new student orientation and First year programs for more information about placement. BGSU Firelands students should contact academic and student services for information about placement exams.

A transfer student who wishes to enroll at BGSU as an undergraduate must submit the following:

(a) Application for admission and non refundable application fee;

(b) Official transcripts of credit for each college or university the student has attended, including unaccredited institutions. Transcripts must be submitted to the office of admissions. Failure to indicate previous college attendance may result in refusal of admission, no transfer of credit, and/or expulsion from the university if discovered subsequently;

(c) Transfer students who have completed less than thirty semester hours (forty-five quarter hours), will also need official final high school transcript or equivalent sent from the school by the high school counselor or principal. Note, however, that although a high school transcript may not be required for admission, a student may need to provide a transcript for other reasons (for example, to document a request for waiver of certain degree requirements).

For more information about admissions procedures and instructions, see the office of admissions. If you are admitted to the university, you will also receive an evaluation of your transfer credits. See the transfer credit policy for more information.

Date: January 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:10 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-58 Transfer credit-undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This policy explains the requirements for accepting undergraduate transfer credit from another institution and/or other qualifying experiences. The policy also addresses how transfer credits may be applied towards BGSU degree requirements and an appeals process. Students are also referred to "general education curriculum" and the "Ohio transfer module" for more specific information about the transfer general education credits. This policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html.

(B) Policy

(1) Acceptable collegiate sources for credit transfer

Universities and colleges with accreditations or that are candidates for accreditation by one of the regional accrediting associations, (such as north central association of colleges and schools) and colleges and universities in foreign countries that hold official recognition in the specific country in which located:

(a) Credit awarded may be exact BGSU course equivalent credit when a course is substantially the same as an existing BGSU course. (Example: History of U.S. to Civil War = History 2050);

(b) When a course for which transfer credit is requested has no equivalent in the same department at BGSU, credit may be awarded in that department but with no course number assigned. (Example: history of India = history elective);

(c) When the course is in a department not existing at BGSU, credit may be awarded in a different department. (Example: anthropology assigned to sociology, some photography courses assigned to art or technology);

(d) Credit may be deferred when equivalency cannot be determined by the office of registration and records. Procedures exist for the further evaluation of deferred credit by faculty members in an appropriate department.

Bowling Green state university does not generally accept transfer credit from institutions lacking accreditation from one of the six regional accrediting agencies (e.g., North Central association). However, such transfer of credit is possible, particularly if the originating institution has accreditation from a disciplinary-based accrediting agency recognized by the council for higher education accreditation (CHEA).

(i) Credit may be accepted only upon the recommendation of the specific department/school/program and college in which the coursework is offered;

(ii) Decisions about validation of courses should be based on demonstrated student competencies, rather than on a comparison of syllabi or course descriptions. The specific means for determining competencies will be up to the individual department, school, or program, with college-level approval.

(2) Transfer of credit

Bowling Green state university awards transfer credit for formal coursework of baccalaureate level from an acceptable collegiate source as described in the "Acceptable collegiate sources for credit transfer" section of this catalog. All courses with passing grades, including grades of "D" that carry quality points of 1.0 or greater (on a 4.0 scale) will transfer. Individual degree or program requirements may demand a higher grade than "D" in selected courses. Those standards will apply equally to transfer courses and to courses taken at BGSU.

For information on transfer credit equivalencies, click on the following link: u.select - a course applicability system.

(3) Responsibilities of students in credit transfers

In order to facilitate transfer with maximum applicability of transfer credit, prospective transfer students should plan a course of study that will meet the requirements of a degree program at the receiving institution. Transfer assurance guides (TAGs) are designed to provide advice about course selection that will guarantee that courses taken within a TAG will transfer and apply to particular majors. Specifically, students should identify early in their collegiate studies an institution and major to which they desire to transfer. Furthermore, students should determine if there are language requirements or any special course requirements, such as prerequisite courses or the initial parts of course sequences that can be met during the freshman or sophomore year. This will enable students to plan and pursue a course of study that will articulate with the receiving institution's major. Students are encouraged to seek further information regarding transfer from their advisor, the college or university to which they plan to transfer, and from the Ohio board of regents at http://regents.ohio.gov/transfer/tags/index.php.

(4) Acceptable noncollegiate sources for credit transfer

(a) Program on noncollegiate sponsored instruction (PONSI). The American council on education (ACE) acts as a recommending agency for coursework offered by diverse noncollegiate organizations. Course descriptions, together with credit recommendations, are available in ACE's national guide to credit recommendations for noncollegiate courses.

(i) Credit is accepted generally as recommended by ACE for lower-division (1000-2000 level) courses at BGSU;

(ii) Course credit recommendations for work which is on the upper-division (3000-4000 level) at BGSU may be subject to validation by appropriate departments before credit can be granted.

(b) Educational experiences in the armed services. The American council on education (ACE) also accredits work offered by the U.S. armed services. Course descriptions and credit recommendations are available in its publication guide to the evaluation of educational experiences in the armed services.

(i) Credit is accepted generally as recommended by ACE;

(ii) Normally, all credit accepted is non-equivalent course credit;

(iii) Equivalent course credit where appropriate may be subject to evaluation and recommendation of appropriate departments.

(i) Credit for experiential learning may be granted for educational experience outside the classroom that corresponds to material taught at the university;

(ii) Credit for experiential learning may be granted through credit by examination;

(iii) An eighty dollar fee is assessed for each course granted for successful completion of the credit by examination for validation of experiential learning;

(iv) Experiential learning is also measured by portfolio assessment. Further information regarding portfolio submission procedures is available at the nontraditional student services office or at www.bgsu.edu/ntss

(5) Appeal of credit transfer

Students or institutions wishing to challenge a Bowling Green state university transfer of credit decision may submit a written appeal to the office of registration and records, which will determine whether a policy is at issue. If a policy is at issue, the office of registration and records will perform the appropriate research and send the appeal to the undergraduate council. A subcommittee of the undergraduate council will review all available information and make a recommendation to the office of academic affairs. The office of academic affairs will give final approval or disapproval of the undergraduate council's recommendation.

Date: January 2015

Last updated December 4, 2025 at 1:10 PM

History

Effective: March 24, 2015
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-59 Catalog policies- undergraduate.

(A) Policy statement and purpose

This university policy is part of the undergraduate catalog. The undergraduate catalog provides university academic policies and information about program requirements. The undergraduate catalog is updated each semester and can be found at http://www.bgsu.edu/catalog/academic-policies.html. Colleges and departments may have additional or more specific requirements or policies that relate to an individual program. Students are advised to become familiar with the undergraduate catalog as well as specific requirements and policies related to their degree program.

(B) Policy

This catalog is a guide to the programs, policies, and courses that are part of undergraduate life at Bowling Green state university, a complex learning community. Students need to be aware of opportunities and requirements at several levels to guarantee that they take advantage of all that Bowling Green has to offer and can make steady progress toward academic goals.

The university comprises seven undergraduate colleges, which are subdivided into schools, departments, and programs. Faculty create and offer the courses that students take to fulfill academic requirements for undergraduate degrees. The colleges are responsible for the integrity of degree programs based on the academic fields. All degrees are conferred officially by the university. Students satisfy requirements at the university, college, and major/specialization levels. Students may also be involved with academic programs that are supervised by the office of the provost and vice president for academic affairs. In addition, students have periodic contact with the bursar's office, admissions office, office of student financial aid, and office of registration and records.

(1) The information in this catalog was last updated October 17, 2014. All information in this catalog is subject to change. Except as specifically stated herein, Bowling Green state university makes no representation or contract that following a particular course or curriculum will result in specific achievement, employment or qualification for employment, admission to degree programs, or licensing for particular professions or occupations.

(2) Students are responsible for knowing all requirements and policies in this catalog, particularly the expressed academic policies.

(3) Each of the colleges provides an overview of its degree programs in this catalog. Consult the indexes listed in catalog area "colleges and programs" to find which college offers programs in a particular area of interest. Colleges, departments, and programs provide more detailed information in separate publications, available on request. Students are advised to become familiar with BGSU publications in their area of interest as well as appropriate parts of this catalog. Students should closely study the check sheet that summarizes all requirements and options for their chosen major.

(4) The university reserves the right to change its course offerings, academic policies, and requirements for the baccalaureate and associate degrees. To protect students from unnecessary penalty where changes in degree requirements occur, the following policies in regard to the undergraduate catalog are in effect:

(a) Regardless of their semester of matriculation, students are typically governed by the policies in the most current catalog. Students are governed by the degree requirements in the catalog of their matriculation.

(b) Students may elect to complete a degree program under the most recent catalog. If this choice is made, then the student must complete all degree requirements specified in the selected catalog.

(d) Students who transfer from another institution follow the catalog of the time of their initial registration for courses at BGSU.

(e) Students who initiate but do not complete a program and return to the university follow the degree requirements specified by the dean of the college in which they are enrolled at the time of their return.

(f) Questions concerning catalog policy should be directed to the appropriate college advisement office or to the office of the provost and vice president for academic affairs.

(5) Courses are identified by a two-, three-, or four-letter abbreviation and a number. Course descriptions are listed online in alphabetical order by course prefix. Current information about course offerings can be found on the BGSU web at the following location: http://csspublic.bgsu.edu/psc/cs9prd/employee/hrms/c/community_access.sss_ browse_catlg.gbl?&.

(6) The semester schedule of classes should be used in conjunction with this catalog to determine course availability, because not every course is offered every semester. Class offerings for specific sessions can be found on the BGSU web at the following location: https://webapp.bgsu.edu/ClassSearch/search.htm.

Last updated March 2, 2023 at 11:38 AM

History

Effective: July 24, 2018
Promulgated Under: 111.15

Ohio Adm.Code 3341-3-60 University libraries collection polices- undergraduate.