2015-2016
Falcon Guide
2015-2016
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
UNIVERSITY POLICE
MB 1200
(432) 552-2786 (non-emergency)
(432) 552-2787 (non-emergency)
2911 (emergency for UTPB Police Communications)
9911 (emergency line for the city of Odessa)
Disclaimer
This publication contains summary information only. It is not a compilation of rules, regulations,
or policies of the University. All official rules, regulations and policies are published in the
“Rules and Regulations of the Board of Regents of the University of Texas System,” the
“Handbook of Operating Procedures” and the “Catalog” of The University of Texas of the
Permian Basin.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Student Services & Activities
1
Academic Advising ..................................... 1
Accounting
Admissions ................................................... 1
Alumni Association ..................................... 1
Bookstore ..................................................... 2
Bulletin Boards ............................................ 2
Campus Activity Board……………………..2
Career Services ............................................ 2
Check Cashing ............................................. 3
Copy Machines .............................................3
Counseling Services ..................................... 3
Digital Courtesy ............................................3
Falcon Delegates .......................................... 3
Fees .............................................................. 4
Financial Literacy Services ……………….. 4
Financial Services ........................................ 4
Food Service ................................................ 5
Graduate Studies .......................................... 5
Gymnasium and Pool.....................................5
Health Insurance .......................................... 6
Housing..........................................................6
I.D. Cards...................................................... 7
Information Center ....................................... 7
Information Resources ................................. 7
Intercollegiate Athletes ................................ 7
International Students……………………....8
Intramurals……………………………….....8
John Ben Sheppard Pub. Lead. Institute .......8
Library ..........................................................9
Lost and Found ........................................... 9
Mail Services .............................................. 9
Mascot .........................................................10
Notary Public ............................................. 10
Orientation Leaders Association................. 10
Parking ........................................................10
Police Administration .................................10
Registrar and Academic Records ................11
School Colors ..............................................11
Student Activities ........................................11
Student Organizations..................................11
Student Publications ...................................12
Student Senate ............................................12
Student Success Center ...............................12
Student Union……………...……………. 13
University Music Programs……………. …13
UTPB Testing Center…………………….. 14
Veterans Services………………………….14
Student Conduct and Discipline ............... 15
http://ss.utpb.edu/dean-of-students/student-conduct/
Student Conduct .............................................. 15
Disciplinary Process .................................. 20
Sanctions ................................................... 22
Appeal Procedures ......................................24
Disciplinary Records ..................................25
Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct 26
Student Grievance/Appeal Procedures ... 30
http://ss.utpb.edu/dean-of-students/student-grievances/
Introduction ..................................................... 30
Definitions ................................................. 30
Types of Grievances/Appeals ....................30
Introduction to Filing a Grievance ............ 30
Grade Appeal .............................................30
Academic Grievance ................................. 31
Non-Academic Grievance ......................... 31
Americans with Disabilities Grievance..... .33
Assembly, Expression of Free Speech ...... 33
Solicitation..................................................... 36
Student Records ........................................ 48
http://aa.utpb.edu/registrar/student-educational-records/
Registrar and Academic Records .................... 48
FERPA ............................................................ 51
Directory Information ......................................52
Policy Statements ....................................... 54
http://ss.utpb.edu/dean-of-students/university-policies/
Acceptable Use Policy for State-Owned
Information Resources .......................... …54
Alcohol and Drug-Free Schools ...................... 54
Call to Military Service............................. .59
Crime Awareness and Campus Security ... 59
Copyrighted Materials ............................... 67
File Sharing (Peer-to-Peer) ........................ 68
Hazing ....................................................... 70
Intellectual Property .................................. 72
Smoke-Free Policy .................................... 74
Student Publications Policy....................... 74
Glossary of Terms...................................... 74
UTPB Fight Song ....................................... 79
Campus Map .............................................. 80
Midland Campus…………………………. 81
STUDENT SERVICES & ACTIVITIES
Academic Advising
MB 1150
(432) 552-2661
The primary goal of the Office of Academic Advising of The University of Texas of the Permian Basin is to
provide all students either currently enrolled or prospective with the best possible academic advice to enable
them to achieve their college goals in a timely fashion. The Office of Academic Advising keeps current with The
University's General Education Requirements as well as specific major requirements to provide information for
faculty as well as students. Thus, the office provides both students and faculty a central location for information
related to academic requirements.
Accounting (OSFA)
MB 1225
(432) 552-2620
A full complement of financial aid and scholarship programs are available for students
attending the University. Federal and state grants, as well as institutional scholarships are
awarded to students who meet the guidelines of the individual programs to help students meet the financial
obligations associated with obtaining an education. The goal of the OSFA is to assist students in completing the
various processes required for obtaining financial assistance through the available programs. All students are
encouraged to contact the Office of Student Financial Aid for more information regarding the University’s
financial aid programs.
Admissions
MB 1221
(432) 552-2605
(Toll-free: 1-866-552-UTPB)
E-mail: admissions@utpb.edu
The Office of Admissions is in charge of the following: providing undergraduate and graduate admission
application packets to domestic and international students; pre-admission counseling; evaluation of academic
transcripts for degree-seeking undergraduate students; determining the students' admissibility to the University;
awarding scholarships to first-time freshmen; and student recruitment.
Alumni Association
MB 4230
432-552-2809
When you graduate with a degree from UTPB, you automatically enter into an alumni network
over 18,000 strong. The UTPB Alumni Network exists to keep each and every one of YOU connected to each
other and UT Permian Basin. After all, you’re not just a Falcon for your college years, you’re forever a
Falcon. Stay connected by updating your information here, www.utpb.edu/alumni.
UTPB Alumni Association Membership information can be found at
http://www.utpb.edu/services/development-office/alumni-association/alumni-association
1
Bookstore
MB 1140
(432) 552-0220
The Follett Bookstore, located in the courtyard area of the Mesa Building, carries course related textbooks,
general books, additional course materials, school supplies, discounted software for UTPB students, and collegiate
apparel and gifts. Cold drinks and snack items are also available. Textbooks can be ordered through our Follett
website (www.utpb.bkstr.com) for either store pick-up or shipment to the student’s home. Clothing and gift items
can also be ordered from the website. Graduation regalia is ordered through the Bookstore, as well as graduation
announcements. The Registrar’s office informs potential graduates of order dates. Refunds for textbooks are
allowed for the first 7 days of class in Spring and Fall, and the first 5 days of Summer sessions. Although the
Bookstore does buy textbooks daily, scheduled buybacks are held during finals week in Spring and Fall semesters,
and twice during the Summer. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express cards are accepted, and gift
cards are available.
Hours of Operation: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM, Monday – Friday with extended hours for events.
Bulletin Boards
Student Activities Office
SAC 201
(432) 552-2650
Items to be posted on the bulletin boards must be approved and stamped by the Student Success Center and the
Office of Student Life. Only events, programs and services provided by UTPB departments or registered student
organizations are permitted to be posted. Taping signs or posters to doors, walls, and windows is restricted.
Nothing can be posted in the Mesa Building stairwells. However, signs may be posted on the metal walls and
doors by using magnetic tape. For a complete list of posting guidelines, please stop by the SAC front desk.
Campus Activities Board
SAC 212
(432) 552-2658
The Campus Activities Board is responsible for identifying, budgeting, and developing cultural, social and
recreational programs for the student body. Students are encouraged to contact the Campus Activities Board to
get involved as volunteer activity program members. The U. T. Permian Basin Campus Activities Board brings in
a variety of well-known and aspiring artists and entertainers, sponsors Falcon Fridays in the Student Activities
Center, and takes students to regional and national leadership development conferences.
Career Services Office
MB 2100
(432) 552-3634
careerservices@utpb.edu
Career Services offers career guidance to all students and alumni needing assistance with choosing a major, job
placement and job preparedness. Career Services can assist students/alumni in obtaining full-time and part-time
employment through postings on the university’s College Central Network. Students who wish to change majors
or who are undecided can use the MyPlan career exploration system to research majors and occupational
pathways. Career Services also administers the Study Abroad program and the UTPB Work Co-op Program.
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Check Cashing
Financial Services MB
1220
Students may cash personal checks in the Office of Financial Services (limit of $25.00).
Copy Machines
Coin-operated copy machines are available in the Library. Laser-printer copies of research materials accessed
through library-provided technology are available at a modest price.
Counseling Services
University Counseling Center
South Campus – Founders Building 054
(432) 552-2365
The University Counseling Center, offers counseling and consultation for students to assist with personal
concerns. There is no charge for these professional services for students, which include individual, couples,
family and group counseling. The University Counseling Center also offers testing for personality, career, and
psychological/educational evaluations. The Counseling Center can provide documentation of a disability which
includes diagnosis, limitations, and recommendations for academic accommodations if needed.
The philosophy of the Counseling Center is to assist students to identify and develop strengths to enhance
personal and academic success, and better cope with the stresses associated with life in a university environment.
At the first appointment, treatment options will be discussed, which may include individual couples or family
counseling, or referral into the community for specialized services, e.g. medication possibilities.
The University Counseling Center’s regular hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Walk-ins are
welcome—it is best to call head to make sure a counselor is free. To make an appointment, call 552-2365. If a
counselor is not available, leave a message on the answering machine, and the call will be returned as soon as a
counselor is free. In an emergency after hours, call 552-2786 and a counselor will be notified to return the call.
For more information visit our website at http://ss.utpb.edu/university-counseling-center/.
Digital Courtesy
Cellular phones should be on vibrate or silent mode during class and in the Library to avoid disruption of
academic activity. If you must take an emergency call during class or in the Library, please leave the area before
talking. Text messaging and taking photos in class also should be avoided. Students should reference the course
syllabi as faculty set their own classroom behavior expectations.
Falcon Delegates
Office of Admissions
MB 1221
(432) 552-2605
The Falcon Delegates are dedicated to developing interaction with prospective students and representing our
university at campus and community events which promote the growth and expansion of UTPB with the highest
level of integrity and professionalism. Through this process, the Delegates should be challenged to realize
individual goals and explore new ideas, create supportive networks to aid in future endeavors and be empowered
with a variety of valuable skills. Interested candidates should contact the Admissions Office for application
requirements and details.
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Fees
Fees are assessed to students in addition to tuition. These fees are listed below, along with the purpose of the
fees.
• Advising Fee- Provides partial funding for The University Advising Office, which offers academic advising for
all students
• Athletics Fee – Provides funding for intercollegiate athletics programs. UTPB participates in NCAA Division
II.
• Library Service Fee- Funds an increase in direct services to students including on-line access to academic
indexes and electronic library services
• Medical Services Fee – allows students to have access to local medical providers through the University
• Student Activities Center Fee – provide support for the Student Activities Center (SAC). The SAC houses the
following: dining services, coffee shop, fitness area, game room, lounge, study rooms, meeting room, Student
Life Office, Campus Activity Board Office, and Student Senate Office.
• Student Service Fee- Funds a variety of student services including Campus Activity Board, Student Senate, The
Sandstorm & The Mesa Journal. .
• Technology Fee – Provides funds to support the integration and maintenance of technology.
Other types of fees that may be charged include: Lab/Supplemental Fees for classes to cover the cost of materials
used in class: voluntary fees: such as book locker rental; and incidental fees: such as add/drop fee, new student
orientation fee, student teaching fee, and graduation fee.
Financial Literacy Services
MB 2114
(432) 552-2830
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin provides financial literacy and planning to assist students with
making smart financial decisions while in college. This information is made available through the office of
Financial Literacy during the spring and fall semesters. Monthly seminars are provided free on campus.
Classroom presentations are available, as well as, online tools and links to materials. Private individual sessions
are also offered for students year round. Students may be referred by a professor or department. Students may
make an appointment and walk-ins are also welcome during office hours. All consultations are free and
confidential. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these services.
Financial Services
MB 1220
(432) 552-2706
All payments should be paid at the Office of Financial
Services, which is located
on the 1st floor, Room 1220 in the Mesa Building. Normal working hours during semester are:
Monday–Thursday
Friday
8:00 am – 6:00 pm
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
MasterCard, Visa and Discover are accepted.
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Food Service
Student Activities Center
Chartwells
Office- (432) 614-4387
Cell - (432) 238-4019
Hours of Operation:
Continuous service Monday thru Friday
Saturday & Sunday
Meal Plan Service Hours
Monday thru Friday :
Saturday & Sunday :
6:30am - 8:00pm.
11:am - 8:00pm
Breakfast - 6:30am - 9:30am
Lunch - 10:30am - 2:30 pm
Dinner - 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Brunch 11:00am - 1:00pm
Dinner - 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Starbucks ("we proudly brew")
Monday –Friday 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday/Sunday Closed
Falcons Bucks- (Provides the student with the convenience of having cash of any denomination loaded to
his/her student ID card to be used for any menu or retail item.)
Graduate Studies
MB 1208
(432) 552-2530
The Office of Graduate Studies implements graduate policies and perform a records
management function for all graduate students. The Office of Graduate Studies
builds advising files, monitors scholastic performance, assists in the acceptance
process for master’s degree students, and manages all of the records required for completion of the
degree.
Gymnasium, Swimming Pool, and Recreation (432)
552-2336
Students are encouraged to use the gymnasium and swimming pool during open recreation hours, enroll in
physical activity classes, and become involved in the many varied Intramural programs in order to improve and
maintain their physical well-being. The gymnasium includes full-size basketball courts, volleyball courts,
racquetball courts, a weight room, tennis courts, complete locker and shower facilities, and a new swimming pool.
Current students may use the facilities at no additional charge. A current student I.D. card must be presented at
the Gym upon entrance. Immediate family members of students, faculty, staff, and alumni may purchase gym
swimming pool memberships at reduced costs. Hours of operation are as follows but are subject to change:
Fall and Spring Semesters
Monday through Friday
7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Weekends
1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Summer Semester
1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Monday through Friday
5
Health Insurance
Personal health coverage is the responsibility of each individual student. Students are encouraged to carry health
and accident insurance. The University of Texas System Health Insurance is a comprehensive insurance plan
designed to cover hospitalization and treatment for more serious health problems. For students interested in
purchasing this additional health coverage, the insurance policy information is available under the UT Permian
Basin section at www.ahpcare.com/UTSystem.
UTPB is partnered with the Medical Center Health System of Odessa. Students may access health care at the
Center for Primary Care at 3001 JBS Parkway. The costs of services provided under the UTPB health plan is
covered by the medical service fee paid at registration as a basic co-pay. There is a $25 co-pay at MCH Procare
Family Medicine Clinic and a $35 co-pay at MCH Procare Urgent Care. Also available are the Clinics at
Walmart East and Walmart West. There is a $15 co-pay for these facilities.
Housing Parker Ranch House
(432) 552-2743
Living on campus, students can choose from a variety of housing options.
As a freshman or first year college resident, students can choose from a 4bedroom unit, with or without a kitchen. As an upperclassmen, students
have a choice of living in a 2-bedroom, 4-bedroom, or an efficiency. The
Falcon’s Landing Units (manufactured housing) offer students a choice of
a 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, or 3-bedroom unit, and are designated as family
housing.
Amenities include basic furniture, kitchen appliances, central heat/air, and each room is internet and cable ready.
Rental payments are on an academic year basis and include the furnishings, electricity, cable, internet, and
garbage collections, plus 24-hour service provided by Student Housing staff, Physical Plant, and University
Police. On-campus Housing is located on South Campus and within walking distance of all classrooms,
laboratories, gymnasium, Student Union, and the cafeteria.
Vaccinations
Effective as of January 1, 2010 all first time college students or transfer students enrolling in Texas public or
private colleges and universities who plan to live in on-campus dormitories are required to be immunized against
bacterial meningitis prior to moving into on-campus housing.
Proof of immunization must be provided and must include the day, month and year of the vaccination and must be
signed or stamped by a physician or physician’s designee, a public health authority, either state or local, or
immunizations record from a school official.
Students who are not immunized 10 days prior to arrival to UTPB, will not be allowed to move into student
housing.
If receiving the meningococcal vaccine would endanger the student’s health, the student must provide a signed
affidavit from a registered and licensed physician that states in his/her opinion the required vaccination would be
injurious to one’s health and well-being. If a student declines the vaccination for reasons of conscience, including
a religious belief, the student must complete the conscientious exemption form from the Texas Department of
State Health Services available at any Texas health department or complete an affidavit request for exemption
from immunizations for reasons of conscience, online at https://webds.dshs.state.tx.us/immco/.
6
I.D. Cards
UTPB Police
MB 1200
(432) 552-2786
Student I.D. cards are made at the UTPB Police Department for new students who have paid the $10.00 student
I.D. fee in the Office of Financial Services or for returning students who have lost their I.D. and have paid the
student I.D. fee for a replacement card. The I.D. is validated with a sticker at the UTPB front desk each semester
the student is enrolled.
The student I.D. card is used in the UTPB Testing Center, Library, Gym, Bookstore, and the Computer Lab.
Students who register late may receive their I.D. card by presenting their registration receipt to the Police
Department. There is a $10.00 fee to replace lost or stolen I.D. cards.
Information Center
UTPB Police
MB 1200
(432) 552-2786
The Information Center is combined with the Police Communications Center. Located in the Mesa Building
Lobby, the Center is able to assist students who need assistance, directions, or have general questions.
Information Resources Division (IRD)
ST 2103
(432) 552-2415
The Information Resources Division (IRD) provides general purpose computing and communications facilities for
all currently enrolled students. These facilities include a wide range of modern hardware and software
technologies. Facilities are located in the Student Success Center (MB 2215) and at various locations throughout
the campus (Parker Ranch House, PASS Office, Science and Technology, and the Library). Technical assistance
is also available. Printing facilities ranging from draft quality to publication quality also are available. For
additional information, contact the Information Resources Division at 552-2415.
Intercollegiate Athletics
GYM 200 (432)
552-2675
The Intercollegiate Athletic Department administration, coaching staff, and support staff are committed to the
success of the student athlete on and off the field of play. Sport brings a feeling of pride and unity for both the
student body and our community so our athletic program is looking for athletes who can be leaders on the court,
in the classrooms and for all of West Texas.
Primarily, funding for UTPB athletics comes from the Athletic Fee and outside donations, with additional help
coming from the Athletic Booster Club. UTPB currently supports the following sports: Men’s Baseball, Men’s
Basketball, Women’s Basketball, Men’s Cross Country, Women’s Cross Country, Men’s Soccer, Women’s
Soccer, Women’s Volleyball, Women’s Fast Pitch Softball, Men’s Swimming, Women’s Swimming, Men’s
Tennis, Women’s Tennis and football.
Incoming freshmen must meet two (2) of the following three (3)
criteria:


Graduate in the top ½ of their class.
ACT score of 18 or SAT score of 860.
7

High School GPA of at least a 2.0 on a 4-point scale.
Second semester freshmen must meet the above criteria and must have passed at least nine (9) hours on their first
semester of college. Returning and transfer students must pass a minimum of 24 hours in their two semesters of
college work. This can include up to six summer school hours earned. Students may participate only if they are
in the first through tenth semester of college work. A student may only play four seasons in any given sport.
Academic scholarships and other sources of financial aid are available to student athletes.
Admission is free to all home athletic events for students only. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to
support the Falcons. Home events take place in the following facilities:
Baseball:
Jan and Ted Roden Baseball Field near the pond
Basketball:
Gymnasium, aka The Falcon Dome
Soccer:
Game Field behind the Duck Pond
Softball:
UTPB Softball Complex in UTPB Park
Swimming:
Pool outside of Gymnasium
Volleyball:
Gymnasium, aka The Falcon Dome
Football
Ratliff Stadium (beginning Fall, 2016)
International Students
Office of Admissions
MB 1221
(432) 552-2605
E-mail: admissions@utpb.edu
International students provide an opportunity for US students to become more acquainted with people of other
countries. All students are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity. Students interested in the
International Student application process should review the "Frequently Asked Questions" in the section marked
International Student Website after accessing the Prospective Student page. Admission applications for
international students may be obtained at the Office of Admissions or by applying on-line: www.utpb.edu.
Intramurals
SAC 101
(432) 552-3653
Intramural activities are publicized on the Intramural Bulletin Board, located in the lower level of the Gymnasium,
as well as the Mesa Journal and posters throughout campus. Activities vary from semester to semester, but
usually include: flag football, volleyball, basketball, golf, tennis, racquetball, and Ping-Pong. Student input is
encouraged.
John Ben Shepperd Public Leadership Institute
Presidential Museum
(432) 552-2850
The mission of the John Ben Shepperd Public Leadership Institute is to provide young Texans an education for
and about leadership, ethics, and public service. The goal of the Institute is to develop a well-rounded leadership
program to improve young Texans’ personal leadership skills, develop their sense of community responsibility,
and educate them on the importance of ethics and public service. Public service and coming together to solve
community concerns is a uniquely American and Texas characteristic. The challenge is how best to prepare
young Texans to accept leadership responsibility and lead the State in the 21st century. To meet this challenge
the Institute offers: Academic Degree Programs, Distinguished Lecture Series, Specialized Seminars, Student
8
Leadership Forums, Student Leadership Summer Camp, Annual Statewide Forum, the “Outstanding Local
Leader” or “Outstanding Texas Leader” Awards, and the John Ben Shepperd Journal of Practical Leadership.
J. Conrad Dunagan Library (432)
552-2370
The J. Conrad Dunagan Library is located south of the Mesa Building in the Library/Lecture Center. Library
services include
Reference/Information, Circulation, Inter-Library Loan, reserves, and
Instruction. Access to nearly 100 selected scholarly databases is
available.
Materials available:
Nearly 300,000 print
volumes
More than 700,000
microfilm volumes More than 700 print
journal subscriptions
More than 25,000 electronic journals (available in full-image format)
More than 25,000 scholarly books are available in electronic text formats
The Archives contain important regional/local historical and cultural resources.
The library is open weekdays, evenings, and weekends during normal school sessions. Library hours, databases
links, electronic materials, online public access catalog, and other sites of interests are available through the
library’s website: http://library.utpb.edu/.

Cell phones may not be used in the library. The library atrium-entrance area of the Library/Lecture
Center provides a comfort setting for cell phone users and casual chatting. In addition, a casual
reading area has been set up inside the library, located on the first floor, where students can find
daily newspapers and books for leisure reading.
Lost and Found
UTPB Police
MB 1200
(432) 552-2786
Lost and found items should be turned in to and retrieved from Police Communications Center located in the Mesa
Building Lobby.
Mail Services
MB 1100
(432) 552-2745
Students may send U.S. mail through Mail Services on first floor Mesa Building, near the Police Information
Office. Books of stamps may be purchased at the UTPB Bookstore. Letters and other items can be weighed by the
mail room personnel. Personal packages weighing 13 oz. or more need to be taken to the Post Office.
9
Students living on campus housing may receive their mail in individual post office boxes at no cost. Proper
identification is required in order for students to pick-up packages that do not fit in their box, and at the mail
room. The mail is not placed in the post office boxes on Saturday or Sunday.
Mascot – Falcon
Office of Student Life – Student Activities Center SAC
210 A
UTPB has a Falcon Mascot costume. Requests for the Falcon to make
public appearances should be directed to the Office of Student Life –
Student Activities Center. Mascot public appearances are subject to
student mascot availability and should be requested as far in advance as
possible.
Notary Public
Students may access a notary public in the Office of Senior Associate Vice President for Student Services in MB
4274 and can be reached at (432) 552-2600. There is also a notary public in the Office of Admissions in MB
1221 and can be reached at (432) 552-2605. There is a notary public in the Office of Financial Aid in MB 1225
and can be reached at (432) 552-2620.
Orientation Leaders
Office of Student Life
SAC 212 A
(432) 552-2653
The Office of Student Life coordinates summer and January orientations for new students. Orientation leaders are
students who can help new students become familiar with programs, services, and other resources available to
them on campus. If you are interested in helping new students transition to college and learn about UTPB please
consider becoming an Orientation Student Leader.
Parking
UTPB Police
MB 1200
432-552-2787
Parking permits are available at registration and after registration through the Police Communications Center.
Parking permits are color-coordinated for specific parking lots. Depending on availability and where you are
most likely to park, you may purchase a permit for that specific lot. It will be necessary to display the parking
permit that is issued to you while parked on campus. Failure to display the permit or displaying the wrong
colored permit for the lot you are parked in may result in the issuance of a parking citation. Designated parking
for those with disabilities is available in every lot. If a student loses a permit, a replacement may be obtained
from the Police Communications Center, after a replacement fee has been paid in Accounting.
Police Administration
MB 1103
(432) 552-2780
The University Police Department provides campus security twenty-four hours a day and should be contacted by
students who wish to report criminal activity or any unusual or strange occurrences, including accidents on
10
campus. The University Police Department officers are fully certified police officers. These officers have the
authority to issue court appearance citations, as well as initiate arrests.
Students who need to use jumper cables to start their car may contact the University Police for assistance. The
Police Department can be contacted by phone or in person at the University Police Communications Center,
located in the Mesa Building Lobby. Those students who have locked their keys inside their vehicle will have to
contact a local locksmith.
Registrar and Academic Records
MB 1231
(432) 552-2635
Questions concerning a student’s UT Permian Basin academic record, TASP status, adding or dropping courses,
change of name, change of address, change of residency, classrooms, registration, graduation, honors, 30 plus
hour rule, academic probation or dismissal, and withdrawal from The University should be referred to the Office
of the Registrar.
School Colors
Dolphin Orange and White (Black is often used for trim or definition)
Student Activities
Office of Student Life
SAC 212 A
(432) 552-2653
A well-rounded college experience includes interactions outside of the classroom. The Office of Student Life
provides services and programs that enhance co-curricular involvement. Services and programs include:
leadership development opportunities, advisement for student organizations, student organizations support and
integration of students into the campus community.
Student Organizations
Office of Student Life
AC 210 A
(432) 552-2653
Students are encouraged to join or develop clubs and organizations that unite members with a common cause or
interest. Such organizations allow students to pursue specialized interests and to have an opportunity to interact
with classmates and professors in an atmosphere different from that of the classroom.
The following rules should be abided by when establishing and maintaining a student organization. The University
Of Texas System Board Of Regents' Rules and Regulations, Rule 50202 (http://www.utsystem.edu/board-ofregents/rules/50202-student-organizations ) and University policies state:
1. All members of the organization must be a member of the University’s student body, faculty, or staff.
2. Each student organization must have at least one faculty or full-time staff advisor.
3. The student organization shall not act as an agent of the school. It shall not use the name or seal of the
University or The System in any of its activities.
4. The organization must register with the Office of Student Life in order to be recognized as a student
organization.
5. Each organization will have a minimum of 5 (five) members.
11
A guide for student organizations is available with the Office of Student Life and includes the information
necessary for filing to be recognized as a registered student organization.
Student Publications
MB 2138
(432) 552-2659
The Mesa Journal, the student newspaper, provides news and information for the University community.
Students are responsible for writing the articles, paste-up, ad sales, and distribution of the bi-monthly newspaper.
The Mesa Journal Office is located in the Mesa Building, Room 2138.
The Sandstorm, an annual magazine publication, is a collection of poems, short stories, and essays submitted by
students and selected by a panel for publication. The magazine also prints photographs of student art that includes
painting, sculpture, pottery, and photography. The Sandstorm is a student publication with its editor and staff
selected from the student body.
Student Senate
SAC 211
(432) 552-2655
The Student Senate serves as the liaison between the students and the administration of the University. The
recommendations of the Student Senate are channeled through the offices of the Director of Student Life, the
Vice-President for Student Services, the President, the appropriate Executive Vice Chancellor, and the Chancellor.
Student Senate officers are elected by the student body in the spring prior to the academic year in which they will
serve.
The student body elects the class senators at the beginning of each fall semester. The Student Senate Office is
located with the Program Board and Student Life Office in the Student Union. All students are welcome to
leave messages or just stop by and chat with your elected student representatives at the Student Senate Office.
Student Success Center
MB 2215
(432) 552-3350
The Student Success Center offers tutoring for math, science, writing, and reading. UTPB
Supplemental Instruction (SI) leaders are also located in the Success Center. These tutors target difficult classes
and help students understand and work through class content. They lead study groups and study sessions for
students in these difficult classes. Staff available in the Success Center are J.P. Garcia, Assistant Director
(Tutoring and Supplemental Instruction) and Jasmine Tambunga, Director (Mentoring and First Year Seminar).
Mentor Program
MB 2215F
(432) 552-2127
The Mentor Program was developed to help incoming and current students adjust to
college by providing mentors who already understand how to be successful in college. The advantages
to having a mentor are huge.
Mentors help students with:
Registering
12
Locating Financial Aid
Contacting Academic Advisors the “Ins
and Outs” of College Life
Stress
Achieving Goals
Study Skills
Social Activities
Problem Solving
Time Management
Adjusting to College
Student Union
MB 2101
(432) 552-2650
The Student Union is a community center for students, faculty, and staff. Here one can find the Falcon’s Perch
for fast meals, smoothies, and snacks. Other attractions are The Mesa Journal, the Free Store, and a large
television room for group or individual viewing. Meeting rooms are available.
The Offices of Veterans Services, Financial Literacy, and the Associate Dean of Students are also located in the
Student Union.
University Music Programs
Band – Falcon Flock
The Rea Music and Academic Center
(432) 552-4292
The Falcon Flock is a pep band formed in 2004. Currently there are about 40 members in the band. They
perform on a regular basis for athletic events, commencements, and
convocations.
They perform an eclectic assortment of music. The goal is to provide
musical entertainment for events, have fun, and advance music on the
UTPB campus. Interested students should contact Dr. Dan Keast by e(keast_d@utpb.edu) or by telephone.
mail
University Choir
The Rea Music and Academic Center
(432) 552-4295
The University Choir is the principal choral ensemble for the University, and is open to all students
regardless of choral or vocal experience with a placement audition. The Choir performs a wide variety of
traditional choral repertoire and Masterworks from the 1500's to the present.
University Philharmonic
13
The Rea Music and Academic Center
The University Philharmonic is an advanced orchestra performing the standard orchestral repertoire. The
ensemble is also called the University Strings when performing with strings only. The conductor is Dr.
Thomas Hohstadt, former Musical Director of the Midland-Odessa Symphony. Interested students should
contact Dr. Hohstadt at Hohstadt_t@utpb.edu
Vocal Jazz Ensemble
The Rea Music and Academic Center
432-552-4295
The Vocal Jazz Ensemble is the contemporary a cappella ensemble of the University and is open to
experienced vocal musicians by audition. The choir performs contemporary pop, vocal jazz and modern
music with vocal percussion solo singing. The ensemble performs frequently on campus and in the
community.
UTPB Testing Center
MB 1160
(432) 552-2630
Fax (432) 552-3631
The UTPB Testing Center, located in the Courtyard, provides testing and proctoring services for the following
exams/assessments: TSI, CLEP, IACT, Chemistry Placement, MFT, TEXES, and Pre-Service Teacher Practices
TEXES. We offer in-house proctoring services for students who need to make-up professor exams for excused
absences as well as non- UTPB students taking correspondence and/or online courses. The Prometric Testing
Center provides a wide variety of professional assessments such as, MCAT, TEXES, Accounting Certification,
TOEFL, etc. Students needing our services can call, come by, or use our online scheduler to set up an
appointment at https://utpbtesting.youcanbook.me.
Veteran Services
MB 2114
(432) 552-2830
UTPB Veteran Services’ goal is to provide military veterans whether here on campus or online with the resources,
support and advocacy needed to thrive while pursuing their educational and professional goals and to help our
student veteran transition from military life to academic life successfully. Veteran Services sponsors the Falcon
Veterans Association, a student led club that meets twice a month for fellowship and to be a patronage group for
student veterans and serve the next generation of transitioning students. The Falcon Veterans’ Room 2259,
located on the second floor of the Mesa Building is provided for student veterans to work, study, and/or relax
while at the university.
14
Student Conduct and Discipline
1.1 Introduction
Students at The University of Texas of the Permian Basin maintain the rights and responsibilities of
citizenship. All students are expected and required to obey federal, State, and local laws, to comply with the
Regents' Rules and Regulations, with The University of Texas System and university rules and regulations,
with directives issued by an administrative official of the U. T. System or the university in the course of his or
her authorized duties, and to observe standards of conduct appropriate for an academic institution (Regents'
Rules and Regulations, Rule 50101, Section 2).
Any student who engages in conduct that violates the afore mentioned is subject to discipline whether such
conduct takes place on or off campus or whether civil or criminal sanctions are also imposed for such conduct.
(Regents' Rules and Regulations, Rule 50101, Section 2).
1.2 Definitions
Unless the context requires a different meaning, the following definitions apply to the conduct and procedures
discussed:
1.21.1 "Chief Student Affairs Officer" means the Vice President for Student Affairs or his or her delegate or
representative.
1.21.2 “Dean" means the Dean of Students or his or her delegate or representative;
1.21.3 "Academic Dean" means the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, the Dean of the School of
Business or the Dean of the School of Education, as appropriate to the situation;
1.21.4 “Department Chair" means the Chair of an Academic Department;
1.21.5 “Faculty member” means a person who is employed by the University for the purpose of teaching a
class and who has authority to assign grades for the class;
1.21.6 "Hearing Officer" means an individual or individuals selected in accordance with the procedures
adopted by the university pursuant to the recommendation of the Chief Student Affairs Officer to hear
disciplinary charges, make findings of fact, and upon a finding of responsibility, impose appropriate
sanction(s);
1.21.7 “President” means president of The University of Texas of the Permian Basin;
1.21.8 "Student" means a person who:
a. is currently enrolled at the University,
b. is accepted for admission or re-admission to the University,
c. has been enrolled at the University in the prior semester or summer session, and is eligible to
continue enrollment in the semester or summer session that immediately follows, or d. has
engaged in prohibited conduct at a time when he or she met the above criteria;
1.21.9 “Campus” consists of all real property, buildings, or facilities owned or controlled by the University;
15
1.21.10 “Weekday" means Monday through Friday, excluding any day that is an official holiday of the
University or when regularly scheduled classes are suspended due to emergent situations;
1.21.11 “Day" means a calendar day except for the days on which the University is officially closed or when
regularly scheduled classes are suspended due to emergent situations;
1.21.12 “Good standing" means not on academic or disciplinary probation of any kind;
1.21.13 “University” means The University of Texas of the Permian Basin;
1.21.14 “Complaint” is a written statement of the essential facts constituting a violation of Regents’ Rules and
Regulations, University or UT System rules or regulations, or Federal, State, or local law.
1.3 Specific Conduct Proscribed
A student is obligated to conduct him or herself in a manner appropriate for an institution of higher education.
Actions which may result in disciplinary action include, but are not limited to the following:
1.31
Scholastic dishonesty includes but is not limited to cheating, plagiarism, collusion, falsifying
academic records, misrepresenting facts, the submission for credit of any work or materials that are attributable
in whole or in part to another person, taking an examination for another person, any act designed to give unfair
advantage to a student such as, but not limited to, submission of essentially the same written assignment for
two courses (without the prior permission of the instructor) or the attempt to commit such acts.
1.31.1 Definitions
1.31.12 "Cheating” on a test includes;
1.31.13 Copying from another student’s test or paper;
1.31.14 Using during a test, materials not authorized by the person giving the test;
1.31.15 Failing to comply with instruction given by the person administering the test which would
include, but not be limited to, time restrictions, use of blue book, and seating arrangements;
1.31.16 Possession during a test of materials which are not authorized by the person giving the test,
such as class notes or specifically designed “crib notes.” The presence of textbooks constitutes a
violation only if they have been specifically prohibited by the person administering the test;
1.31.17 Using, buying, stealing, transporting, or soliciting in whole or part the contents of an
unadministered test, test key, homework solution, or computer program;
1.31.18 Collaborating with or seeking aid or receiving assistance from another student or individual
during a test or in conjunction with another assignment without authority;
1.31.19 Discussing the contents of an examination with another student who will take the examination
or soliciting another student who has taken the test to obtain information regarding contents of the test;
1.31.20 Retaining the contents of an examination, for the purpose of preserving questions for use by
another, when the instructor has designated that the examination is not to be removed from the
examination room or not to be returned to or kept by the student;
16
1.31.21 Substituting for another student or permitting another student to substitute for one’s self to
take a test, a course, or any course-related assignment;
1.31.22 Paying or offering money or other valuable thing to, or coercing another person to obtain a
test, test key, homework solution, or computer program, or information about an un-administered test,
test key, homework solution, or computer program;
1.31.23 Falsifying research data, laboratory reports, and/or other academic work offered for credit;
1.31.24 Taking, keeping, misplacing, or damaging the property of the University, or of another, if the
student knows or reasonably should know that an unfair advantage would be gained by such conduct.
1.31.25 "Plagiarism" includes, but is not limited to, the appropriation of, buying, receiving as a gift, or
obtaining by any means material that is attributable in whole or in part to another source, including
words, ideas, illustrations, structure, computer code, other expression and media, and presenting that
material as one’s own academic work being offered for credit.
1.31.26 "Collusion" includes, but is not limited to, the unauthorized collaboration with another person
in preparing academic assignments offered for credit or collaboration with another person to commit a
violation of any section of the rules of scholastic dishonesty.
1.31.27 ”Falsifying academic records” includes, but is not limited to, altering or assisting in the
altering of any official record of the University or the University of Texas System, and/or submitting
false information or omitting requested information that is required for or related to any academic
record of the University or University of Texas System. Academic records include, but are not limited
to, applications for admission, the awarding of a degree, grade reports, test papers, registration
materials, grade change forms, and reporting forms used by the Office of the Registrar. A former
student who engages in such conduct is subject to a bar against admission, revocation of a degree, and
withdrawal of a diploma.
1.31.28 ”Misrepresenting facts” to the University or an agent of the University or the University of
Texas System includes, but is not limited to, providing false grades or resumes; providing false or
misleading information in an effort to receive postponement or an extension on a test, quiz, or other
assignment for the purpose of obtaining an academic or financial benefit for oneself or another
individual; or providing false or misleading information in an effort to injure another student
academically or financially.
1.32
Alcohol. Use or possession of alcoholic beverages without proper authorization in a University
campus classroom building, laboratory, auditorium, library building, museum, faculty or administrative office,
intercollegiate and intramural athletic facility, student housing residence or any campus area. (More
information is available in the Alcohol and Drug Policy in the policy section of the Falcon Guide.)
1.33
Drugs. Any student found responsible for the illegal use, manufacture, possession, distribution
and/or sale of a drug or narcotic on the campus is subject to discipline. If a student is found responsible for of
the illegal use, manufacture, possession, and/or sale of a drug or narcotic on campus, the sanction assessed
shall be suspension from the university for a specified period of time and/or suspension of rights and
privileges. (More information is available in the Alcohol and Drug Policy in the policy section of the Falcon
Guide.)
1.34
Health or Safety. Conduct that endangers the health or safety of any person on the campus or on
any property, or in any building or facility owned or controlled by the U. T. System or the university. This
17
includes, but is not limited to, physical abuse, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, and coercion. (More
information is available in the Campus Violence Policy in the policy section of the Falcon Guide.)
1.35
Disruption. Any action that singly or in concert with others, impedes, disrupts, or interferes with
any teaching, educational, research, administrative, disciplinary, public service, or other activity or public
performance authorized to be held or conducted on campus or on property or in a building or facility owned or
controlled by the U. T. System or the university.
1.351 In the case of disruptive activity on the campus of the University, neither the dean nor the president, or
any representative of them, shall negotiate with any person or persons so engaged. When such a situation
arises, the dean or president, or their representative, shall take immediate action to utilize all lawful measures
to halt and eliminate any and all such disruptive activities that come to their attention, and may initiate
immediate interim disciplinary action: provided, however, the Chief of Police of the U. T. System or of the
university and those people designated by any such Chief of Police are authorized to use their sound discretion
under the attendant circumstances in addressing any such disruptive behavior. (Regents Rule 40502).
1.36
Inciting Lawless Action. Speech, either orally or in writing, which is directed to inciting or
producing imminent lawless action and is likely to incite or produce such action.
1.37
Unauthorized Use of Property. The unauthorized use of property, equipment, supplies,
buildings, or facilities owned or controlled by the U. T. System or the university. This includes the possession
and/or use of University keys for unauthorized purposes.
1.38
Hazing. Action that singly or in concert with others, engages in hazing. Hazing in State
educational institutions is prohibited by State law (Texas Education Code Section). Hazing with or without the
consent of a student whether on or off campus is prohibited, and a violation of that prohibition renders both the
person inflicting the hazing and the person submitting to the hazing subject to discipline. Initiations or
activities of organizations may include no feature that is dangerous, harmful, or degrading to the student. A
violation of this prohibition renders both the organization and participating individuals subject to discipline.
(More information is available in the Hazing Policy in the policy section of the Falcon Guide.)
1.39
Altering of Official Documents. Forging, altering, mutilating or destroying or assisting in these
actions of any official record of the U. T. System or the university or submitting false information or omits
requested information that is required for or related to an application for admission, the award of a degree, or
any official record of the U. T. System or the university. A former student who engages in such conduct is
subject to bar against readmission, revocation of degree, and withdrawal of diploma.
1.310
Vandalism. Any action which defaces, mutilates, tampers with, destroys, or takes unauthorized
possession of any property, equipment, supplies, buildings, or facilities of the University or property located on
the campus and belonging to any student or employee of the University or visitor on campus.
1.311
Time, Place, and Manner. The freedoms of speech and assembly are basic and essential to
intellectual development. However, these activities are subject to the well-established right of colleges and
universities to regulate time, place, and manner so that the activities do not intrude upon or interfere with the
academic programs, research, or administrative processes.
1.312
Harassment. Involvement in harassing another individual. Harassment is defined as conduct that
is sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent to create an objectively hostile environment that interferes with
or diminishes the ability of an individual to participate in or benefit from services, activities, or privileges
provided by the University. (See Policy Statements for more specific information on all harassment policies.)
18
1.313
Use of Explosives, Weapons or Hazardous Chemicals. Unless authorized by federal, State, or
local laws, possession, display or use any type of explosive, firearm, imitation firearm, ammunition, hazardous
chemical, or weapon as defined by State or federal law, while on campus or on any property or in any building
or facility owned or controlled by the U. T. System or the university, is subject to discipline.
1.314
Smoking. All University facilities are declared to be smoke free. Appropriate medical
exceptions, particularly in clinical treatment situations will be considered. (More information is available in
the Smoking Policy in the policy section of the Falcon Guide.)
1.315
Bodies of Water. Entering, walking, running, lying, playing, or remaining, or being in the water
of any fountain or other artificial body of water, which is not designed and maintained for recreational or
therapeutic purposes, located on the University campus unless such person has the prior written permission of
the President to enter, remain, or be in such water. Additionally, it is not permitted for any person to dump,
throw, place, or cause any material, object, person, animal, trash, waste or debris to be placed in such fountain
or other artificial body of water.
1.316
Physical Structures. Damaging, defacing, or removing any portion of any fountain, monument,
building, statue, structure, facility, tree, shrub, or memorial located on the University campus is subject to
discipline.
1.317
Identification. Refusal to identify himself or herself to a University official, faculty member, or
staff member acting in the course of his or her duties. A person identifies himself or herself by giving his or
her name and complete address substantiated by a current driver’s license, voter registration card, or other
official documentation, and by stating truthfully whether or not he or she is a student or employee of the
University. An institutional representative includes any member of the Board of Regents or the executive
secretary to the board; any executive officer and administrative officer of the System; any administrative
officer or the University; and any attorney, peace officer of the System or University acting pursuant to the
authority of Texas law.
1.318
Solicitation. No solicitation shall be conducted on any property, street, or sidewalk, or in any
building, structure, or facility owned or controlled by the U. T. System or any of its institutions unless
permitted by the Regents' Rules and Regulations.
1.319
Inappropriate Conduct. Conduct that is inappropriate for members of the university community.
Such conduct includes but is not limited to pranks, public nudity, harassing phone calls or e-mails, and berating
or otherwise abusive behavior.
1.320
Children. Children should not be left unattended. Such behavior may result in disciplinary action.
1.321
Pets. It is prohibited to have pets inside or around the buildings on the campus except bona fide
service animals.
1.322
Failure to Notify. Failure to notify appropriate authorities when a student has personal knowledge
of any violation of the code of Student Conduct and Discipline.
1.323
False Accusation. Knowingly making a false charge of a violation of the code of Student Conduct
against a member of the University community.
1.324
Unauthorized Presence. A student who has been criminal trespassed must be authorized by the
University Police Department or the Dean of Students in order to appear on campus.
19
1.325
Prohibited Conduct. Prohibited conduct that occurs while participating in off-campus activities
sponsored by any component institution or the U. T. System including field trips, internships, rotations, or
clinical assignments.
1.326
Prohibited Conduct During Suspension. A student who receives a period of suspension as a
disciplinary sanction is subject to further disciplinary action for prohibited conduct that takes place on campus
during the period of suspension.
1.327
Student Disciplinary Process. It is a violation to engage in action that interferes with or obstructs
the student disciplinary process. This includes, but is not limited to, failing to appear for a meeting when
summoned by letter or e-mail to do so, failing to appear at or testify at a hearing, attempting to intimidate,
harass or unduly influence a potential witness or complainant, and failing to complete judicial sanctions.
1.328
Attempt to commit or Assist. Attempting or assisting with the commission or attempted
commission of any of the foregoing listed offenses.
1.4 Bar from Campus
A former student who has been suspended or expelled for disciplinary reasons is prohibited from being on the
campus of any institution during the period of such suspension or expulsion without prior written approval of
the chief student affairs officer of the institution at which the suspended or expelled student wishes to be
present.
1.5 Disciplinary Process
The Dean of Students, or his or her designee, shall have the primary authority and responsibility for the
administration of student discipline. The Dean works cooperatively with faculty members in the disposition of
scholastic violations, with student housing staff in the disposition of student housing violations, with campus
security in the disposition of criminal violations and with other appropriate staff members in the disposition of
other types of violations. The Dean may delegate to faculty members the authority to dispose of scholastic
discipline cases and may delegate to University staff members the authority to dispose of designated student
disciplinary matters as deemed appropriate.
1.51
Investigation. Disciplinary charges will be investigated by the Dean or the Dean’s designee.
After completing the preliminary investigation, the dean may dismiss the allegation as unfounded or summon
the student for a conference.
1.52
Student Summon. Any student may be summoned by written request of the Dean of Students
for a meeting for the purposes of the investigation and/or to discuss the allegation(s). The written request may
specify a place for the meeting and a time at least three weekdays after the date of the written request if the
request is sent by mail or at least two weekdays after the date of the request if the request is sent by e-mail or
hand delivered. The written request may be mailed or e-mailed to the address appearing in the records of the
registrar, e-mailed to the student at the e-mail address on record with the University or may be hand delivered
to the student. If a student fails to appear without good cause, as determined by the Dean, the Dean may bar or
cancel the student's enrollment or otherwise alter the status of the student until the student complies with the
summons, or the Dean may proceed to implement the disciplinary procedures as provided for in section 1.57.
The refusal of a student to accept delivery of the notice or the failure to maintain a current address with the
registrar, or failure to read mail or e-mail shall not be good cause for the failure to respond to a summons.
1.53
Interim Disciplinary Action. Pending a hearing or other disposition of the allegations against a
student, the Dean may take such immediate interim disciplinary action as is appropriate to the circumstances
when such action is in the best interest of the university. This includes but is not limited to suspension and bar
20
from the campus when it reasonably appears to the Dean from the circumstances that the continuing presence
of the student poses a potential danger to persons or property or a potential threat for disrupting any activity
authorized by the university.
1.54
Timeliness of Hearing. When interim disciplinary action has been taken by the Dean under
section 1.53 immediately above, a hearing of the charges against the student will generally be held under the
procedures specified below, beginning with section 1.58. A hearing following the interim disciplinary action
will generally be held within 10 days after the interim disciplinary action was taken; however, at the discretion
of the Dean of Students the 10 day period may be extended for a period not to exceed an additional 10 days.
1.55
Withholding Transcripts, Grades, Degrees. Notwithstanding the above, the Dean may withhold
the issuance of an official transcript, grade, diploma, certificate, or degree to a student alleged to have violated
a rule or regulation of the University which would reasonably allow the imposition of such penalty. The Dean
may take such action pending a hearing, resolution by administrative disposition, and/or exhaustion of
appellate rights if the Dean has provided the student an opportunity to provide a preliminary response to the
allegations and in the opinion of the Dean, the best interests of the University of Texas System or the
university would be served by this action.
1.56
Administrative Disposition. In any case where the accused student elects not to dispute the facts
upon which the charges are based and agrees to the sanctions the Dean assesses, the student may execute a
written waiver of the hearing procedures specified below. This administrative disposition shall be final and
there shall be no subsequent proceeding regarding the charges.
In any case where the accused student elects not to dispute the facts upon which the charges are based, but does
not agree with the sanctions assessed by the Dean, the student may execute a written waiver of the hearing
procedures below yet retain the right to appeal the decision of the Dean only on the issue of the sanction. The
appeal regarding the sanction will be to the president of the University.
1.57
Hearing Process. In those cases in which the accused student disputes the facts upon which the
charges are based, such charges shall be heard and determined by a fair and impartial Hearing Officer.
1.58
Notice of Hearing. Except in those cases where immediate interim disciplinary action has been
taken, the accused student shall be given at least 10 days written notice of the date, time, and place for such
hearing and the name of the Hearing Officer. The notice, sent by the Dean of Students, shall include a
statement of the charge(s) and a summary statement of the evidence supporting such charge(s). The notice
shall be delivered in person to the student or mailed to the student at the address appearing in the registrar's
records. A notice sent by mail will be considered to have been received on the third day after the date of
mailing, excluding any intervening Sunday. The date for a hearing may be postponed by the Hearing Officer
for good cause or by agreement of the student and Dean.
1.59
Impartiality of the Hearing Officer. The accused student may challenge the impartiality of the
Hearing Officer. The challenge must be in writing, state the reasons for the challenge, and be submitted to the
Hearing Officer through the Office of the Dean at least three days prior to the hearing. The Hearing Officer
shall be the sole judge of whether he or she can serve with fairness and objectivity. In the event the Hearing
Officer disqualifies himself or herself, a substitute will be chosen in accordance with procedures of the
university.
1.510
Burden of Proof. Upon a hearing of the charges, the Dean or other university representative has
the burden of going forward with the evidence and has the burden of proving the charges by the greater weight
of the credible evidence.
21
1.511
Duties of Hearing Officer. The Hearing Officer is responsible for conducting the hearing in an
orderly manner and controlling the conduct of the witnesses and participants in the hearing. The Hearing
Officer shall rule on all procedural matters and on objections regarding exhibits and testimony of witnesses,
may question witnesses, and is entitled to have the advice and assistance of legal counsel from the Office of
General Counsel of the System. The Hearing Officer shall render and send to the Dean and the accused
student a written decision that contains findings of fact and a conclusion as to whether the accused student is
responsible for the violations as charged. Upon a finding of responsibility the Hearing Officer shall assess a
sanction or sanctions listed in Section 1.6 below. When an accused student is found responsible for the illegal
use, possession, or sale of a drug or narcotic on campus the assessment of a minimum sanction provided in
Section 1.33 above is required.
1.512
Minimal Rights. The hearing shall be conducted in accordance with procedures adopted by the
university that assure the university representative and the accused student the following minimal rights:
(a) Each party shall provide the other party a list of witnesses, a brief summary of the testimony to be given by
each, and a copy of documents to be introduced at the hearing at least five days prior to the hearing.
(b) Each party shall have the right to appear, present testimony of witnesses and documentary evidence, cross
examine witnesses, and be assisted by an advisor of choice. The advisor may be an attorney. If the accused
student’s advisor is an attorney, the Dean’s advisor may be an attorney from the Office of General Counsel of
the System. An advisor may confer with and advise the Dean or accused student, but shall not be permitted to
question witnesses, introduce evidence, make objections, or present argument to the Hearing Officer.
(c) The Dean may recommend a sanction to be assessed by the Hearing Officer. The recommendation may be
based upon past practice of the university for violations of a similar nature, the past disciplinary record of the
student, or other factors deemed relevant by the Dean. The accused student shall be entitled to respond to the
recommendation of the Dean.
(d) The hearing will be recorded. If either party desires to appeal the decision of the Hearing Officer, the
official record will consist of the recording of the hearing, the documents received in evidence, and the
decision of the Hearing Officer. At the request of the president the recording of the hearing will be transcribed
and both parties will be furnished a copy of the transcript.
1.6 Sanctions
The following sanctions may be assessed by the Dean or by the Hearing Officer after a hearing in accordance
with the procedures specified immediately above:
1.61
1.62
1.63
1.64
1.65
1.67
1.68
1.69
1.610
1.611
1.612
1.613
Admonition.
Warning probation.
Disciplinary probation.
Withholding of grades, official transcript, and/or degree.
Bar against readmission.
Restitution or reimbursement for damage to or misappropriation of university or U. T. System
property.
Deferred suspension.
Suspension of rights and privileges, including participation in athletic or extracurricular activities.
Failing grade for an examination or assignment or for a course and/or cancellation of all or any portion
of prior course credit.
Denial of degree.
Suspension from the university for a specified period of time.
Expulsion (permanent separation from the university).
22
1.614
1.615
Revocation of degree and withdrawal of diploma.
Other sanction as deemed appropriate under the circumstances.
1.651 If a student is found responsible for the illegal use, possession, and/or sale of a drug or narcotic
on campus, the recommended sanction shall be suspension from the university for a specified period
of time and/or suspension of rights and privileges.
1.7
1.71
Scholastic Dishonesty Violation Procedures
The Responsibility of the Faculty
Under the authority delegated by the Dean of Students, a faculty member who has reason to suspect that a
student has violated a university rule or an administrative rule concerning scholastic dishonesty is advised to
take action as recommended by the following guidelines. During the disposition of the case, the student must
be allowed to attend all classes and complete all assignments until the procedures herein are complete unless
the Dean of Students has taken interim disciplinary action pursuant to Regent’s Rules and Regulations, Rule
50101, Section 4.1.
1.711
Guidelines
When there is reason to believe that scholastic dishonesty has occurred, the faculty member should gather all
pertinent evidence (such as test, reports, computer programs, and other academic assignments) and identify any
possible witnesses. Accusations that a student has cheated should be made in private and the investigation of a
cheating incident should be handled as a confidential matter. If the incident occurs during an exam, the faculty
member may ask a student suspected of cheating to move to another desk, but the student should be allowed to
complete the exam in question. After conferring with the student, the faculty member may dismiss the
allegation or proceed with disciplinary action.
The faculty member shall meet with the student to discuss the allegations and the evidence that supports the
charge. At this meeting the student should be informed that he/she has a right to a hearing. In this meeting
every effort should be made to preserve the basic teacher/student relationship. The student should be given the
opportunity to respond to the allegations but may not be forced to comment. As a result of this meeting, the
faculty member may dismiss the charges or, proceed under subsection (a) or (b) below:
(a) In any case in which the student accused of scholastic dishonesty does not dispute the facts upon which the
charges are based and executes a written waiver of hearing, the faculty member may recommend an academic
penalty as specified below, shall inform the student of such action in writing and must report the disposition of
the incident to the Dean of Students. A Faculty Disposition form will be provided for that purpose by the Dean
of Students. The Dean of Students will review each form and, if circumstances warrant, may impose additional
penalties. Certain types of scholastic dishonesty, such as substituting for someone on an exam or having
someone substitute for the student, or altering academic records, may involve a penalty other than those
specified below. In cases such as these, or if the faculty member wishes to recommend a penalty other than
those penalties outlined in Section 1.6., above, the faculty member must contact the Dean of Students
immediately. After the Dean of Student’s review, if the Dean of Students approves the disposition the Dean
will inform the student of the final decision via US mail.
(b) In a case in which the student accused of scholastic dishonesty disputes the facts upon which the charges
are based, or chooses not to waive the right to a hearing, the faculty member shall refer the matter to the Dean
of Students who shall proceed under Section 1.5. Relevant documents (or copies) should be forwarded with
the referral. If the student is in possession of any relevant documents, the faculty member may request those
documents. If the student refuses to relinquish these documents, the faculty member should note the request
23
and the student's refusal on the referral form. During the disposition of the case, the student must be allowed
to attend all classes and complete all assignments until the procedures are complete unless the Dean of
Students has taken interim disciplinary action under Section 1.53.
A student may appeal the penalty recommendation of a faculty member by giving written notice to the Dean of
Students within fourteen days from the date on which the decision was announced. The appeal is conducted in
accordance with Section 1.56. If the student disagrees with the decision of the Dean of Students, the student
may request a hearing as described in Section 1.57.
1.72
Scholastic Dishonesty Sanctions
A student who is in violation of a University regulation concerning scholastic dishonesty may be subject to one
or more of the sanctions in Section 1.6, above. Sanctions specific to scholastic dishonesty, recommended by
the faculty member and imposed by the Dean of Students include:
1.721
Written warning that further scholastic violations may result in more severe sanction.
1.722
Educational program to enhance the student’s understanding of scholastic dishonesty.
1.723
Resubmit assignment, paper or program. (Specify requirements and due date).
1.724
Retake exam.
1.725
Reduced credit or zero on assignment, paper or program.
1.726
Reduced credit or zero on exam. (Specify grade.)
1.727
Reduced final grade for the course.
1.728
Failing grade for the course. (Specify grade.)
1.729
Denial of degree.
1.730
Revocation of degree and withdrawal of diploma.
1.73
Appeal
1.731 A student may appeal a disciplinary sanction assessed by the Dean in accordance with Section 1.711
immediately above. Either the Dean or the student may appeal the decision of the Hearing Officer. An appeal
shall be in accordance with the following procedures:
1.732
Appeal Procedures. The appealing party must submit a written appeal stating the specific
reasons for the appeal and any argument to the president with a copy to the other party. The appeal must be
stamped as received by the President’s office no later than 14 days after the appealing party has been notified
of the sanction assessed by the Dean or the decision of the Hearing Officer. If the notice of sanction assessed
by the Dean or the decision of the Hearing Officer is sent by mail, the date the notice or decision is mailed
initiates the 14 day period for the appeal. The non-appealing party may submit a response to the appeal which
must be received by the President’s Office no later than 5 days after receipt of the appeal with a copy to the
other party. An appeal of the sanction assessed by the Dean in accordance with Section 1.56 immediately
above will be reviewed solely on the basis of the written argument of the student and the Dean. The appeal of
the decision of the Hearing Officer will be reviewed solely on the basis of the record from the hearing. The
24
Dean will submit the record from the hearing to the president as soon as it is available to the Dean. At the
discretion of the president, both parties may present oral argument in an appeal from the decision of the
Hearing Officer.
1.733
President’s Authority. The president may approve, reject, or modify the decision in question or
may require that the original hearing be reopened for the presentation of additional evidence and
reconsideration of the decision. It is provided, however, upon a finding of responsibility in a case involving
the illegal use, possession, and/or sale of a drug or narcotic on campus, the sanction may not be reduced below
the recommended sanction prescribed by Section 1.33.
1.734
Communication of Decision. The action of the president shall be communicated in writing to the
student and the Dean within 30 days after the appeal and related documents have been received. The decision
of the president is the final appellate review.
1.74
Disciplinary Record
The university shall maintain a permanent written disciplinary record for every student assessed a sanction of
suspension, expulsion, denial or revocation of degree, and/or withdrawal of diploma. A record of scholastic
dishonesty shall be maintained for at least five years unless the record is permanent in conjunction with the
above stated sanctions. A disciplinary record shall reflect the nature of the charge, the disposition of the
charge, the sanction assessed, and any other pertinent information. This disciplinary record shall be
maintained by the Office of the Dean of Students. It shall be treated as confidential, and shall not be accessible
to or used by anyone other than the Dean or university officials with legitimate educational interests, except
upon written authorization of the student or in accordance with applicable State or federal laws or court order
or subpoena.
1.75
Nature of Disciplinary Sanctions
1.751 Admonition is a written reprimand from the Dean of Students to the student on whom it is imposed.
1.752 Warning probation is the lesser form of probation indicating that the student has been notified that he or
she has engaged in unacceptable behavior and that further violations of the regulations may result in more
severe disciplinary action. The dean or hearing officer may impose conditions related to the offense, such as
counseling, educational seminars, or unpaid work assignments. Failure to meet the condition(s) shall be
considered an additional violation.
1.753 Disciplinary probation is the greater form of probation indicating that the student has engaged in
unacceptable behavior and may be required to report to the dean on a regular basis during the probationary
period. Further violations will result in consideration of suspension or expulsion. The dean or hearing officer
may impose conditions related to the offense, such as counseling, educational seminars, or unpaid work
assignments. Failure to meet the condition(s) shall be considered an additional violation.
1.754 A bar against readmission and/or a drop from current enrollment or a drop from one or more courses
may be assessed as a sanction as appropriate under the circumstances. A bar against readmission and/or drop
from current enrollment also may be imposed on a student who fails to respond to a summons by the dean to
discuss an alleged violation of the Regents’ Rules, University regulations, or administrative rules. If imposed
under these circumstances, the sanction shall be lifted when the student responds to the summons as requested.
1.755 Restitution is reimbursement for damage to or misappropriation of property. Reimbursement may take
the form of appropriate service to repair or otherwise compensate for damages.
25
1.756 Deferred suspension may be imposed on a student for whom suspension from the university is an
appropriate sanction, but for whom there are mitigating circumstances as determined by the dean or hearing
officer. If a student is found to have violated any rule of The University of Texas System or the University
while the sanction of deferred suspension is in effect, the sanction for such a violation will be immediate
suspension.
1.757 Suspension of rights and privileges is an elastic sanction. The dean or the hearing officer may impose
limitations to fit the particular case, as in the suspension of rights and privileges to enter or reside in University
housing facilities. Suspension of eligibility for official athletic and non-athletic extracurricular activities
prohibits, during the period of suspension, the student on whom it is imposed from joining a registered student
organization; from taking part in a registered student organization’s activities, or attending is meetings or
functions; and from participating in an official athletic or non-athletic activity.
1.758 A failing grade or other academic sanction may be assigned to a student for a course in which he or she
was found responsible for scholastic dishonesty.
1.759 A student found responsible for scholastic dishonesty may be denied his or her degree.
1.7510 Suspension from the University prohibits, during the period of suspension, the student on whom it is
imposed from entering the University campus without prior written approval from the Vice President for
Student Services; from being initiated into an honorary or service organization; and from receiving credit for
scholastic work completed during the period of suspension. The dean or hearing officer may, however, permit
the receipt of credit for scholastic work completed at another institution during the period of suspension,
except when suspension is imposed for scholastic dishonesty. The dean or hearing officer may impose
conditions related to the offense, and failure to meet such conditions or terms of the sanction shall be consider
an additional violation.
1.7510 Suspension from the University and or suspension of rights and privileges is the recommended sanction
that shall be assessed for violation of the rules against illegal use, possession, and/or sale of a drug or narcotic
on campus.
1.7511 Expulsion, permanent dismissal, from the University includes the same prohibitions as those for
suspension.
1.7512 Revocation of the degree and withdrawal of the diploma may be imposed when the violation involves
scholastic dishonesty or otherwise calls into questions the integrity of the work required for the degree.
1.7513 Other sanctions may be imposed when, in the opinion of the dean or hearing officer, the best interests
of the University of Texas System or the University would be served.
1.76 Official Version of Student Conduct Code
The official version of the student conduct code may be found at http://ss.utpb.edu/dean-ofstudents/studentconduct/.
Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin is committed to the principle that the learning and working
environment should be free from inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual misconduct and sexual
harassment are unprofessional behaviors and individuals who engage in such conduct will be subject to
disciplinary action.
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This policy applies to all students and applicants for admission of The University of Texas of the Permian
Basin. It applies not only to unwelcome conduct that violates state and federal laws concerning sexual
harassment but also to any inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature. It is also applicable regardless of the
gender of the complainant or the alleged harasser.
Definitions
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, verbal or physical conduct
of a sexual nature when:
submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment or
student status;
submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for evaluation in making personnel or
academic decisions affecting an individual; and/or
such conduct has the purpose or effect of
unreasonably interfering with an individual's performance as a student or creating an intimidating, hostile or
offensive environment.
Sexual Misconduct
Sexual misconduct includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or verbal or physical
conduct of a sexual nature directed towards another individual.
Examples of deliberate behavior that could be considered sexual misconduct or sexual harassment include but
are not limited to:
physical contact of a sexual nature including touching, patting, hugging, or brushing against a person's
body;
explicit or implicit propositions or offers to engage in sexual activity;
comments of a sexual nature including sexually explicit statements, questions, jokes
or anecdotes; remarks of a sexual nature about a person's clothing or body; remarks about sexual
activity; speculation about sexual experience; exposure to sexually oriented graffiti, pictures,
posters, or materials; and/or physical interference with or restriction of an individual's
movements.
Procedures
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin provides an informal resolution process and a formal complaint
procedure that students may use to address possible violations. The informal process described in this policy
may be used as a prelude to filing a formal complaint, or as an alternative. It is not necessary that the informal
option be used. Anyone who believes that he or she has been subject to sexual harassment or sexual
misconduct may immediately file a formal complaint by following procedures outlined in this policy.
Retaliation Prohibited
A person who retaliates in any way against an individual who has brought a complaint pursuant to this policy
or an individual who has participated in an investigation of such a complaint is subject to disciplinary action,
including expulsion.
Assistance
During the complaint process, a complainant or respondent may be assisted by a person of his or her choice;
however, the assistant may not examine witnesses or otherwise actively participate in a meeting or interview.
27
False Complaints
Any person who knowingly and intentionally files a false complaint under this policy is subject to disciplinary
action up to and including dismissal.
Confidentiality
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin will endeavor to maintain confidentiality to the extent permitted
by law. Where the complainant's desire to maintain anonymity may constrain attempts to establish facts and
eliminate the potential harassment, the University will attempt to find the right balance between the
complainant's desire for confidentiality with the responsibility of the University to provide an environment free
of sexual harassment. Relevant information will be provided only to those persons who need to know in order
to achieve a timely resolution of the complaint. The University may take more formal action to ensure an
environment free of sexual harassment and sexual misconduct.
Informal Intervention
The student is provided assistance to attempt to resolve possible sexual harassment or sexual misconduct if the
student does not wish to file a formal complaint. Such assistance includes developing strategies for the
individual to effectively inform the offending party that his or her behavior is unwelcome and should cease;
action by an appropriate University official to stop the unwelcome conduct; or mediation. The University may
also take more formal action to ensure an environment free of sexual harassment and sexual misconduct.
To initiate this option, a student should contact the Dean of Students if the complaint is against a student or the
Director of the Office of Human Resources if the complaint is against a faculty or staff member.
Reporting of Sexual Harassment or Sexual Misconduct
a) The University of Texas of the Permian Basin encourages any student who believes that he or she has been
subjected to sexual misconduct or sexual harassment to immediately report the incident. When the accused
individual is a student, the complaint must be made to the Dean of Students. All other complaints must be
submitted to the Director of the Office of Human Resources. In no case will a complainant be required to
report such behavior to the person accused of the misconduct.
b) Complaints should be filed as soon as possible after the conduct causing the complaint, but no later than 30
calendar days after the alleged violation occurred. In the case of a currently enrolled student, if the last day for
filing a complaint falls prior to the end of the academic semester in which the alleged violation occurred, then
the complaint may be filed within fifteen (15) calendar days after the end of the semester.
To initiate the investigation process.
The complainant should submit a written and signed statement setting out the details of the conduct that is the
subject of the complaint, including:




the complainant’s name, signature, and contact information;
the name of the person directly responsible for the alleged violation;
a detailed description of the conduct or event that is the basis of the alleged violation;
the date(s) and location(s) of the occurrence(s); the names of any witness (es) to the occurrence(s);
the resolution sought; and any documents or information that are relevant to the complaint.
While an investigation may begin on the basis of an oral complaint, the complainant is strongly encouraged to
file a written complaint.
Complaint Investigation
a) The Director of Human Resources or Dean of Students, as appropriate, will investigate all complaints. If
the complaint is not made in writing, the investigator will prepare a statement of what he or she understands
the complaint to be and seek to obtain verification of the statement from the complainant.
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b) A complaint may be dismissed if the facts alleged in the complaint, even if taken as true, do not constitute
sexual misconduct or sexual harassment; the complaint fails to allege any facts that suggests sexual misconduct
or sexual harassment occurred; or the appropriate resolution or remedy has already been achieved, or has been
offered and rejected.
c) If it is determined that a complaint will not be investigated, the Director of the Office of Human Resources
or the Dean of Students, as appropriated, will send the complainant a notification letter explaining the reason
and informing the complainant that, he or she may appeal the decision not to proceed with a complaint
investigation to the Vice President for Student Services or Vice President for Business Affairs, as appropriate,
within ten (10) working days of the notification.
d) The written appeal must explain why the decision to dismiss the complaint was in error. The Vice
President will respond within twenty (20) working days of receipt of the appeal. The Vice President’s decision
is final. If the decision to dismiss is overturned, the complaint is sent back to the Director of the Office of
Human Resources or Dean of Students, as appropriate, for investigation in accordance with the procedures
outlined below.
e) As part of the investigation process, the accused individual shall be provided with a copy of the complaint
and allowed a reasonable time to respond in writing.
f) The complainant and the accused individual may present any document or information that is believed to
be relevant to the complaint.
g) Any persons thought to have information relevant to the complaint shall be interviewed and such
interviews shall be appropriately documented. Other acceptable methods for gathering information include but
are not limited to visual inspection of materials alleged to be offensive and follow-up interviews as necessary.
h) The investigation of a complaint will be concluded as soon as possible after receipt of the written
complaint. Investigations exceeding 60 days shall be reviewed by the appropriate Vice President. Justification
for the prolonged investigation will be documented. The complainant, accused individual, and supervisor will
be provided an update on the progress of the investigation after the review.
Report of Findings of Investigation and Recommendations for Action
a) Upon completion of the investigation, a written report will be issued. The report will include a
recommendation of whether a violation of the policy occurred, an analysis of the facts discovered during the
investigation, and recommended disciplinary action if a violation of the policy occurred.
b) A copy of the report will be sent to the appropriate administrative official, and the appropriate vice
president, the complainant and the respondent. The complainant and respondent have ten (10) working days
from the date of the report to submit comments regarding the report to the administrative official.
c) Within forty (40) working days of receiving any comments submitted by the complainant or respondent,
the appropriate administrative official will take one of the following actions: request further investigation into
the complaint;
dismiss the complaint if the results of the completed investigation are inconclusive or there is
insufficient reasonable, credible evidence to support the allegation(s); or
find that this policy was violated.
d) A decision that the policy was violated will be made upon the record provided by the investigator and any
comments submitted by the complainant or respondent. The decision will be based on the totality of
circumstances surrounding the complaint, including but not limited to the context of that conduct, its severity,
frequency, whether it was physically threatening, humiliating, or was simply offensive in nature. Facts will be
29
considered on the basis of what is reasonable to persons of ordinary sensitivity and not on the particular
sensitivity or reaction of an individual.
e) If the appropriate administrative official determines that this policy was violated, he or she will take
disciplinary action that is appropriate for the severity of the conduct. The Dean of Students will impose
disciplinary action, if any, against a student in accordance with the University’s student disciplinary
procedures.
f) The complainant and the respondent will be informed in writing of the administrative official’s decision
and will be provided a copy of the final statement of findings.
Implementation of disciplinary action will be handled in accordance with The University of Texas of the Permian
Basin’s policy and procedures for discipline and dismissal
Student Grievance/Appeal Procedures
2.1 Introduction
Any student who believes that his or her rights have been abridged for any reason should seek redress abiding
by the procedures set forth herein. A student grievance may involve faculty, staff or other students of the
University.
A grievance must be initiated within 30 calendar days from the date of the alleged infraction. Appeals
regarding assigned grades must be addressed with the instructor within 30 days of the issuance of the grade.
The time for filing a grievance can be waived for good cause as determined by the Dean of Students.
A grievance which has been brought forth and ruled on under other procedures may not be brought forth under
these procedures and vice versa.
A person who retaliates in any way against an individual who has filed a grievance is subject to disciplinary
action up to and including expulsion.
Any person who knowingly and intentionally files a false grievance under this policy is subject to disciplinary
action up to and including expulsion.
2.2 Definitions
2.21 A grievance shall be defined as a complaint which deals with an allegation regarding any abrogation of a
student's.
2.3 Types of Grievances/Appeal
2.31 Grade Appeal – student wishes to appeal a grade.
2.32 Academic Grievance - student wishes to contest the course requirements, examinations, course content,
admission to a program, instructor behavior, or similar issue.
2.33 Non-Academic Grievance – student wishes to address a situation that occurred outside of the classroom.
A grievance based appeal on such an issue is relevant if the grievance is between a student and one or more
other students; a faculty or staff member; a student organization; or any other office or agency of the
University.
30
2.4 Introduction to Filing a Grievance/Appeal
At each stage of the appeal/grievance process, it is understood that the accused will be afforded the opportunity
to present separately their perspective of the nature and relative facts pertaining to the issue in question. The
following steps should be followed with respect to seeking redress of grievances:
2.41 Grade Appeal
A student who wishes to dispute an assigned grade should first seek resolution via a meeting with the
instructor. A written appeal should be presented to the instructor.
The student should consult with the Student Rights Advocate and may consult with the advocate throughout
the duration of the appeal process. The Student Rights Advocate is appointed by the Dean of Students.
If, within five (5) working days of the meeting with the instructor, the student believes that the issue has not
been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the meeting with the instructor, the student should file a
written appeal with the appropriate Department Chair and seek resolution through an appointment with the
relevant Department Chair.
If, within ten (10) working days after the meeting with the Department Chair, the student believes the grade
appeal has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the meeting with the Department Chair, or if
the accused does not have a Chair or the accused is the Chair, the student should file a written appeal with the
appropriate academic Dean and seek an appointment with him or her.
Upon receipt of the written appeal, the Dean will schedule a meeting with the student. Following the
appointment with the student, the Dean will investigate the matter.
The Dean shall respond to the appeal within (10) working days of the meeting with the student unless an
investigation requires additional time in which case the circumstances should be documented. The decision of
the Dean shall be FINAL.
2.42 Academic Grievance
A student who has an academic grievance should first seek resolution of the grievance via a meeting with the
instructor. A written appeal should be presented to the instructor.
The student has the option of consulting with the Student Rights Advocate and may consult with the advocate
throughout the duration of the appeal process. The Student Rights Advocate is appointed by the Dean of
Students.
If, within (10) working days of the meeting with the instructor, the student believes that the academic
grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the meeting with the instructor, the student
should file a written complaint with the appropriate Department Chair and seek resolution through an
appointment with the Department Chair.
If within ten (10) working days of meeting with the Department Chair the student believes that the academic
grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the meeting with the Department Chair, or
if the accused does not have a Chair or the accused is the Chair, the student should file a written complaint
with the appropriate academic Dean and seek an appointment with the him or her.
Upon receipt of the written complaint, the Dean will schedule a meeting with the student. Following the
appointment with the student, the Dean will investigate the matter.
If within ten (10) working days after meeting with the Dean, a student believes the academic grievance has not
been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the meeting with the Dean, or if the accused is the Dean, the
student should file a written complaint with the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and seek an
appointment with him or her.
31
If within (10) working days after the meeting with the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, the
student believes the academic grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the meeting,
the Student Rights Advocate will then inform and advise the President, who shall render a FINAL decision
within (10) working days. The president should be provided with a timeline of the grievance and proposed
resolutions at each step of the process.
2.43 Non-Academic Grievance
In order to reconcile grievances that are not academically related, students should:
2.431 First attempt to resolve the grievance with the person with whom they have a grievance. In instances
where the student has good reason not to attempt a resolution with this person, the student should make an
appointment and discuss the issue with the supervisor of the person with whom they have a grievance. If the
grievance involves students only and the student has good reason not to attempt a resolution with this person,
the grievance may be made directly to the Dean of Students.
If the grievance involves a University employee and within five (5) working days of meeting with the
employee, the student believes the grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the
meeting with the employee, the student should file a written complaint with the employee’s supervisor and
seek an appointment with him or her.
If the grievance involves a student and within five (5) working days of meeting with the accused student, the
student believes the grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the meeting with the
accused student, the student should file a written complaint with the Dean of Students and seek an appointment
with him or her. A grievance filed against a student will be handled through the student conduct procedures as
prescribed in Student Conduct and Discipline.
If within ten (10) working days after meeting with the employee’s supervisor or Dean of Students, as
appropriate, the student believes the grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the
meeting, the student should file a written complaint with the Vice President for Student Services and seek an
appointment with him or her.
If within ten (10) working days after meeting with the Vice President for Student Services the student believes
the grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the meeting, the student should file a
written complaint with the President, who shall render a FINAL decision within ten (10) working days. The
president should be provided with a timeline of the grievance and proposed resolutions at each step of the
process.
2.5 Other Grievances
Grievances regarding disability, discrimination, sexual harassment sexual misconduct should be addressed in
accordance with the appropriate policy of the University. (Reference ADA Grievance Policy;
NonDiscrimination, Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Policy).
The official version of the student conduct code may be found at http://ss.utpb.edu/dean-ofstudents/studentgrievances/
32
Americans with Disabilities Act – Grievance Policy
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to provide for the prompt and equitable resolution of complaints alleging
violations of Title II of the Act and Section 504 the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Scope
This policy applies to students and applicants for admission to The University of Texas Permian Basin.
Complaint Procedure
Step I
Complaints alleging discrimination on the basis of disability shall be made in writing to the ADA Coordinator;
or shall be referred to the Coordinator if received by other persons within the institution. The complaint shall
be made as soon as possible after the action complained of occurs but in no case later than 10 working days
after such occurrence. The time for bringing a complaint can be waived for good cause as determined by the
ADA coordinator.
The ADA Coordinator shall investigate the complaint to determine its validity and, in appropriate cases,
suggest a resolution. A written statement of the determination and the suggested resolution, if any, shall be sent
to the complainant within 15 working days of receipt of the complaint.
The ADA Coordinator shall maintain all records related to the complaint.
Step II
If the complainant is not satisfied with the decision of the ADA Coordinator, a written appeal stating why the
decision is incorrect may be made to the Vice-President for Student Services within 10 working days of the
receipt of the determination statement from the ADA coordinator. The Vice-President for Student Services
shall review the determination of the ADA Coordinator and send a written decision to the complainant within a
reasonable time, not to exceed 30 working days from the date of receipt.
The decision of the Vice-President for Student Services shall be final.
Assembly, Expression and Freedom of Speech
Governing Principles
a.
The freedoms of speech, expression, and assembly are fundamental rights of all persons and are
central to the mission of the University. Students, faculty, and staff have the right to assemble, to
speak, and to attempt to attract the attention of others, and corresponding rights to hear the speech of
others when they choose to listen, and to ignore the speech of others when they choose not to listen.
33
b. Students, faculty, and staff are free to express their views, individually or in organized groups, orally
or in writing or by other symbols, on any topic, in all parts of the campus, subject only to rules
necessary to preserve the equal rights of others and the other functions of the University. Teaching,
research, and other official functions of the University shall have priority in allocating the use of space
on campus.
c. The University shall not discriminate on the basis of the political, religious, philosophical, ideological,
or academic viewpoint expressed by any person, either in the enforcement and administration of these
rules or otherwise.
Scope of These Policies and Related Provisions
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
These policies protect and regulate speech, expression, and assembly of students, faculty, and staff that
is not part of the teaching, research, or other official functions of the University, not otherwise
sponsored by the University or any academic or administrative unit, and not submitted for academic
credit.
These policies also regulate certain speech that is part of the teaching, research, or other official
functions of the University:
1. The section on harassment applies to all speech on campus.
2. This entire chapter applies to speech by academic and administrative units, and speech that is
submitted for academic credit, in outdoor locations on the campus. Physical Plant administers
and schedules outdoor signs, tables, exhibits, public assemblies, and amplified sound, even
for faculty, staff, and administrative and academic units, because scheduling through a single
office is necessary to avoid conflicts.
Any program or event sponsored by an academic or administrative unit of the University shall have
priority in the use of space and facilities over any speech, expression, and assembly that is not
sponsored by an academic or administrative unit, except that programs or events sponsored by an
academic or administrative unit shall not have priority in the use of weekday amplified sound areas.
This does not limit other existing authority of University officials to authorize programs and events
sponsored by an academic or administrative unit.
Additional rules concerning free speech and academic freedom of faculty are found in the Regents'
Rules and Regulations, Rule 40501, Section 1 (http://utsystem.edu/bor/rules.htm).
Underlying rules concerning free speech of students are found in the Regents' Rules and Regulations,
Rule 40501, Section 1 (http://utsystem.edu/bor/rules.htm). This chapter implements those provisions
and applies them to the UTPB campus.
Rules restricting access to the campus and restricting speech on the campus by persons who are not
students, faculty, or staff are found in the Regents' Rules and Regulations, Rule 40501, Section 1
(http://utsystem.edu/bor/rules.htm)...
Rules protecting and regulating speech on University computer networks are promulgated by
Information Resources Division, and are currently found in IRD Policies, Responsible Use of
Information Technology.
Rules requiring University employees to make clear that controversial statements are in their personal
capacity are found in the Regents' Rules and Regulations, Rule 40501, Section 1
(http://utsystem.edu/bor/rules.htm). Rules restricting use of University equipment, supplies, services,
and working hours for political activities are found in the Regents' Rules and Regulations, Rule 40501,
Section 1 (http://utsystem.edu/bor/rules.htm).
General Definitions--Categories of Speakers
As used here,
1. "Academic or administrative unit" means any office or department of the University.
2. "Faculty member and staff member" includes any person who is employed by the University.
34
3. "Off-campus person or organization" means any person, organization, or business that is not an
academic or administrative unit, a registered student, faculty, or staff organization, or a student,
faculty member, or staff member.
4. "University person or organization" includes academic and administrative units, registered student,
faculty, and staff organizations, and individual students, faculty members, and staff members. This
phrase describes the most inclusive category of potential speakers on campus; all persons and
organizations of any kind are either an "off-campus person or organization" or a "University person or
organization."
5. "Registered student, faculty, or staff organization" includes a registered student organization under
chapter 6, a faculty or staff organization under the Regents' Rules and Regulations, Rule 50202,
Section 1 (http://utsystem.edu/bor/rules.htm), and Student Senate and any unit or subdivision thereof;
6. "Student" means a person who is currently enrolled in residence at the University, or who is accepted
for admission or readmission to the University, or who has been enrolled at the University in a prior
semester or summer session and is eligible to continue enrollment in the semester or summer session
that immediately follows, or who is attending an educational program sponsored by the University
while that person is on campus.
Other General Definitions
a.
"Amplified sound" means sound whose volume is increased by any electric, electronic, mechanical, or
motor-powered means. Shouting and group chanting are not amplified sound and are not subject to the
special rules on amplified sound, but are subject to general rules on disruption.
b. "Office of Student Life" means the Director of the Office of Student Life or any delegate or
representative of the Office of Student Life.
c. "Mesa Courtyard" means the area bounded on two sides by the Mesa Building and on the third side by
the Mesa Deck.
d. "Room or space" includes any room or space, indoors or outdoors, owned or controlled by the
University.
e. "University" means The University of Texas of the Permian Basin.
f. "Weekday" means Monday through Friday except for official University holidays; "day" means
calendar day.
Prohibited Expression
Obscenity
No person or organization shall distribute or display on the campus any writing or visual image, or engage in
any public performance, that is obscene. A writing, image, or performance is "obscene" if it is obscene as
defined in Texas Penal Code, Section 21.08 or successor provisions, and is within the constitutional definition
of obscenity as set forth in decisions of the United States Supreme Court.
Defamation
a.
No person shall make, distribute, or display on the campus any statement that unlawfully defames any
other person.
b. A statement unlawfully defames another person if it is false, if the false portion of the statement
injures the reputation of the other person, and if the speaker has the constitutionally required state of
mind as set forth in decisions of the United States Supreme Court.
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Incitement to Imminent Violations of Law
No person shall make, distribute, or display on the campus any statements directed to inciting or producing
imminent violations of law under circumstances such that the statements are likely to actually and imminently
incite or produce violations of law.
Solicitation
a.
1. No person shall make, distribute, or display on the campus any statement that offers or
advertises any product or service for sale or lease, or requests any gift or contribution, except
as authorized by the Regents' Rules and Regulations, Rule 80103, Section 1
(http://utsystem.edu/bor/rules.htm).
2. Words or symbols on personal apparel, or on decals or bumper stickers affixed to a vehicle by
an owner of that vehicle, are not solicitation within this definition.
3. Unadorned acknowledgments or thanks to donors are not solicitation within this definition.
b.
1. A registered student, faculty, or staff organization may advertise or sell merchandise,
publications, food, or nonalcoholic beverages, or request contributions, for the benefit of the
organization, for the benefit of another registered student, faculty, or staff organization, or for
the benefit of an organization that is tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal
Revenue Code. No organization may sell items obtained on consignment. No organization
may request contributions for an off-campus tax-exempt organization for more than fourteen
days in any fiscal year.
2. Registered student, faculty, and staff organizations, and academic and administrative units,
may sell, distribute, or display literature that contains advertising. Individual students, faculty
members, and staff members may distribute or display such literature, but may not sell it.
3. Individual students, faculty members, and staff members may post advertisements for
roommates, subleases, and sales of used goods that the seller has personally owned and used,
but only on a bulletin board designated for that purpose by an academic or administrative unit
in space that the unit occupies or controls.
4. A resident of a University residence hall or apartment building may occasionally invite one or
more salespersons to come to the resident's room or apartment, and in that room or apartment,
the salesperson may offer products or services for sale to other residents of that residence hall
or apartment building.
5. A registered student, faculty, or staff organization may collect admission fees for programs
scheduled in advance; provided, that neither University persons nor organizations may collect
admissions fees for the exhibition of movies on the campus.
6. A registered student, faculty, or staff organization may collect membership fees or dues at
meetings of the organization scheduled in advance.
7. A registered student, faculty, or staff organization may sell charitable raffle tickets on behalf
of an organization that is authorized to conduct a charitable raffle under the Texas Charitable
Raffle Enabling Act, Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 2002, or successor provisions.
c. A registered student organization that receives funds from solicitations under this section shall deposit
and account for such funds.
d. More detailed regulation of solicitation appears in the Regents' Rules and Regulations, Rule 80103,
Section 1 (http://utsystem.edu/bor/rules.htm). The provisions most relevant to students, faculty, and
staff have been incorporated here.
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General Rules on Means of Expression
Disruption
a. Except as expressly authorized by an authorized University official responsible for a program or event
sponsored by an academic or administrative unit, no speech, expression, or assembly may be
conducted in a way that disrupts or interferes with any
1.
teaching, research, administration, or other authorized activities on the campus;
2.
free and unimpeded flow of pedestrian and vehicular traffic on the campus; or
signs, tables, exhibits, public assemblies, distribution of literature, guest speakers, or
use of amplified sound by another person or organization acting under the rules in this
chapter.
b.
1. The term "disruption" and its variants, as used in this rule, are distinct from and broader than
the phrase "disruptive activities," as used in the Regents' Rules and Regulations, Rule 50101,
Section 1 (http://utsystem.edu/bor/rules.htm). This rule is concerned not only with deliberate
disruption, but also with scheduling and coordination of events to manage or minimize the
inevitable conflicts between legitimate events conducted in close proximity.
2. Except in the most extreme cases, interference and disruption are unavoidably contextual.
Intentional physical interference with other persons is nearly always disruptive in any context.
Interfering with traffic depends on the relation between the volume of traffic and the size of
the passageway left open. Disruptive noise is the most contextual of all, because it depends on
the activity disrupted. Any distracting sound may disrupt a memorial service. Any sound
sufficiently loud or persistent to make concentration difficult may disrupt a class or library.
Occasional heckling in the speaker's pauses may not disrupt a political speech, but persistent
heckling that prevents listeners from hearing the speaker does disrupt a political speech.
These illustrations may be helpful, but none of them includes enough context to be taken as a
rule. We cannot escape relying on the judgment and fairness of University authorities in
particular cases. In this context where difficult enforcement judgments are unavoidable, it is
especially important to remind administrators and law enforcement officials that their
judgments should not be influenced by the viewpoint of those claiming disruption or of those
allegedly disrupting.
c. Potentially disruptive events can often proceed without disruption if participants, administrators, and
law enforcement officials cooperate to avoid disruption without stopping the event. In cases of
marginal or unintentional disruption, administrators and law enforcement officials should clearly state
what they consider disruptive and seek voluntary compliance before stopping the event or resorting to
disciplinary charges or arrest.
Damage to Property
a.
No speech, expression, or assembly may be conducted in a way that damages or defaces property of
the University or of any person who has not authorized the speaker to damage or deface his or her
property.
b. No person may damage, deface, or interfere with any sign, table, or exhibit posted or displayed by
another person or organization acting under the rules in this chapter.
Coercing Attention
a.
No person may attempt to coerce, intimidate, or badger any other person into viewing, listening to, or
accepting a copy of any communication.
b. No person may persist in requesting or demanding the attention of any other person after that other
person has attempted to walk away or has clearly refused to attend to the speaker's communication.
37
Co-sponsorship
a.
Neither registered student, faculty, or staff organizations, nor individual students, faculty, or staff, may
cosponsor any event on campus with an off-campus person or organization. Only academic or
administrative units with authority delegated from the president of the University may cosponsor
events with an off-campus person or organization.
b. An event is a prohibited co-sponsorship if an individual or a student, faculty, or staff organization
1. Depends on an off-campus person or organization for planning, staffing, or management of
the event; or
2. Advertises the event as cosponsored by an off-campus person or organization; or
3. Operates the event as agent of, or for the benefit of, an off-campus person or organization,
except for solicitation of charitable contributions; or
4. Distributes any proceeds of the event to an off-campus person or organization, except for
A. the proceeds of charitable contributions; or
B. payment of a fair market price for goods or services provided to the University
person or organization; or
5. Reserves a room or space for the use of an off-campus person or organization; or
6. Engages in any other behavior that persuades the Office of Student Life that an off-campus
person or organization is in fact responsible for the event, in full or in substantial part.
c. The following facts do not, in and of themselves, indicate a prohibited co-sponsorship:
1. That a University person or organization endorses an off-campus person or organization or its
message;
2. That a University person or organization sells, distributes, or displays literature prepared by
an off-campus person or organization or containing contact information for an off-campus
person or organization;
3. That a University person or organization has purchased goods or services from an off-campus
provider;
4. That a registered student, faculty, or staff organization has invited a guest speaker;
5. That a registered student, faculty, or staff organization has received financial contributions to
support the event from an off-campus donor.
d. The purpose of this rule is to preserve the limited space on campus for the use of students, faculty, and
staff, and the rule shall be interpreted to serve that purpose. It is not the purpose of this rule to prevent
students, faculty, or staff from exercising their right to associate with other persons or organizations
holding views similar to their own.
Other Rules with Incidental Effects on Speech
a.
Other generally applicable or narrowly localized rules, written and unwritten, incidentally limit the
time, place, and manner of speech, but are too numerous to compile or cross-reference here. For
example, libraries typically have highly restrictive rules concerning noise; laboratories and rooms
containing the electrical and mechanical infrastructure of the University typically have safety rules and
rules excluding persons without specific business there; fire and safety codes prohibit the obstruction
of exits and limit the constriction of hallways. Speech within classrooms is generally confined to the
subject matter of the class; the right to attend a class at all is subject to registration and payment of
tuition; individual professors may have rules of decorum in their classroom. These kinds
of rules limit the right of students, faculty, and staff to enter and speak in the places to which these
rules apply.
b. Reasonable and nondiscriminatory rules of this kind generally control over the rights of free speech
guaranteed in this chapter. But even these kinds of rules are subject to the constitutional right of free
speech. Such rules must be viewpoint neutral. Such rules cannot regulate speech more restrictively
than they regulate other activities that cause the problems to be avoided by the rule. Such rules should
not restrict speech more than is reasonably necessary to serve their purpose. Such rules cannot ban
38
unobtrusive forms of communication with no potential for disruption even in the specialized
environment subject to the localized rule. Thus, for example, means of silent expression or protest
confined to the speaker's immediate person, such as armbands, buttons, and t-shirts, are nearly always
protected because they are rarely disruptive in any environment.
Distribution of Literature
General Rule on Distribution of Literature
a.
Registered student, faculty, and staff organizations, and academic and administrative units, may sell,
distribute, or display literature on campus, subject to the rules in this subchapter. Individual students,
faculty members, and staff members may distribute or display literature but may not sell it. In either
case, advanced permission is required.
b. "Literature" means any printed material, including any newspaper, magazine, or other publication, and
any leaflet, flyer, or other informal matter, that is produced in multiple copies for distribution to
potential readers.
Not-for-Profit Literature Only
a.
Except as expressly authorized by the Regents' Rules and Regulations, Rule 80103, Section 2.19 or by
contract with the University, no person or organization may sell, distribute, or display on campus any
publication operated for profit. A registered student, faculty, or staff organization may sell
publications operated for profit as part of a fund-raiser.
b. A publication is operated for profit if any part of the net earnings of the publication, or of its
distribution, inures to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual.
Limits on Advertising
Literature distributed on campus may contain the following advertising:
1. advertising for a registered student, faculty, or staff organization, or an academic or administrative
unit;
2. advertising for an organization that is tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue
Code;
3. paid advertising in a publication primarily devoted to promoting the views of a not-for-profit
organization or to other bona fide editorial content distinct from the paid advertising; and
4. other advertising expressly authorized by the Regents' Rules and Regulations, Rule 80103 or by
contract with the University.
All other advertising in literature distributed on campus is prohibited.
Identification
All literature distributed on campus must identify the University person or organization responsible for its
distribution.
Clean Up of Abandoned Literature
Any person or organization distributing literature on campus shall pick up all copies dropped on the ground in
the area where the literature was distributed.
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Signs and Banners
General Rule on Signs
a.
"Sign" means any method of displaying a visual message to others, except that transferring possession
of a copy of the message is distribution of literature and not a sign.
b. Subject to the rules in this subchapter, a University person or organization may display a sign by
holding or carrying it, by displaying it at a table, or by posting it on a kiosk, bulletin board, or other
designated location. Signs may not be posted in any other location.
Hand-Held Signs
a.
Students, faculty, and staff may display a sign on campus by holding or carrying it by hand or
otherwise attaching it to their person. No advance permission is required.
b. Any person holding or carrying a sign shall exercise due care to avoid bumping, hitting, or injuring
any other person.
c. Any person holding or carrying a sign at a speech, performance, or other event shall exercise due care
to avoid blocking the view of any other person observing the speech, performance, or event.
Depending on the venue, this may mean that signs may be displayed only around the perimeter of a
room or an audience.
d. A law enforcement officer or the Office of Student Life, or an usher or other University employee if
authorized by officials responsible for managing the venue, may warn any person that his or her sign is
being handled in violation of paragraphs (b) or (c). If the violation persists after a clear warning, the
law enforcement officer, dean, authorized usher, or other authorized employee may confiscate the
sign.
Signs on Kiosk in Front of First Floor Elevator – Mesa Building
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
There is one kiosk in front of the elevators on the first floor of the Mesa Building designed for the
posting of signs.
University persons and organizations may post signs on this kiosk. No advance permission is required.
Individuals may not post on kiosk any sign advertising goods or services for sale.
No sign posted on kiosk may be larger than 11 inches by 17 inches.
Each sign posted on kiosk must identify the University person or organization that posted the sign, and
must state the date the sign was posted or the date of the event being advertised. No sign advertising
an event may be posted on kiosk more than fourteen days before the date of the event.
The person or organization that posts a sign on kiosk must remove that sign not later than fourteen
days after it was posted, or twenty-four hours after the event it advertised, whichever is earlier.
No sign may be posted on kiosk on top of another properly posted sign.
No person or organization may post more than two signs on kiosk at the same time.
The Office of Student Life may remove any sign that violates any of the rules in this section.
Banners
a. "Banner" means a sign hung from a structure, or between two buildings, structures, or poles.
1. The Office of Student Life shall designate places where banners may be hung in outdoor
locations not occupied or controlled by any other academic or administrative unit.
2. Other academic and administrative units may designate one or more places where banners
may be hung in indoor or outdoor locations that the unit occupies or controls. b.
1. Academic and administrative units and registered student, faculty, and staff organizations may
hang banners in locations designated under paragraph (b). Individuals may not hang banners.
40
2. Advance permission is required from the unit administering the location, and usually, advance
reservations are required. Academic and administrative units advertising official University
events or programs may be given priority. In locations administered by academic or
administrative units other than the Office of Student Life, organizations affiliated with the
unit administering the location may be given priority.
c.
1. In locations administered by the Office of Student Life, each banner may be hung for one
week. The banner may be renewed from week to week if space is available.
2. Other units administering a location for banners may limit the time each banner may hang.
Any such time limit shall be applied without discrimination to all organizations, except that
academic and administrative units may be given preference.
d. The unit administering a banner location may require that the physical work of hanging the banners be
performed only by employees of Physical Plant or other appropriate University personnel.
A-Frames
a. "A-frame" means a movable and self-supporting sign board designed to stand on the ground.
b. A-frames are subject to the rules on exhibits in this section.
Signs in Other Designated Locations (Including Departmental Bulletin Boards)
a.
Each academic or administrative unit of the University may authorize the posting of signs in spaces
that unit occupies and controls. Such authorization may be granted by general rule, by stamping or
initialing individual signs, or by long-standing tradition.
b. Signs in spaces occupied by academic or administrative units may be
1. confined to bulletin boards or other designated locations;
2. subjected to viewpoint-neutral rules limiting the size of signs, limiting how long they may be
posted, requiring each sign to show the date it was posted and the name of the person or
organization who posted it, and similar rules designed to facilitate fair and equal opportunities
to post signs;
3. confined to official statements or business of the unit, or to certain subject matters of interest
within the unit, or to signs posted by persons or organizations affiliated with the unit.
c. Each academic or administrative unit shall post on or near each bulletin board or other designated
location that it administers
1. either the rules applicable to that bulletin board or location, or a particular office or Web site
where the rules applicable to that bulletin board or location may conveniently be found; and
2. if a stamp or initials are required on signs before they are posted on that bulletin board or
location, the name and office location of the person whose stamp or initials are required.
This notice shall be posted in the upper left corner of each bulletin board or other designated location
for posting signs, or conspicuously in another nearby location. If no such notice is posted, then the
only applicable rules are those contained in this section.
d. Within the scope of the subject matters permitted on a particular bulletin board or other designated
location, no academic or administrative unit shall discriminate on the basis of the political, religious,
philosophical, ideological, or academic viewpoint expressed on a sign.
e. This section does not apply to any enclosed bulletin board or display case that is accessible only to
authorized personnel for official University business.
41
Tables
General Rule on Tables
University persons or organizations may set up tables from which to display literature and disseminate
information and opinions, subject to the rules in this subchapter. No advance permission is required.
Locations
a. Subject to the restrictions in paragraph (b) and subject to the rules on disruption of other functions and
interference with vehicular and pedestrian traffic, University persons and organizations may set up
tables
in any outdoor location on the campus and in any large, open, indoor location.
b.
1. Tables may not be set up inside any library, classroom, laboratory, performance hall, stadium,
or office, or in any hallway less than ten feet wide, without permission from the academic or
administrative unit that controls the space, or from the faculty member or staff member who
controls the space at a particular time.
2. Academic or administrative unit may further specify these rules by restricting tables to
reasonable locations in spaces occupied by that unit. Academic and administrative units are
encouraged to clearly state any such rules in writing, and to publish those rules on a Web site
or on a flyer or pamphlet conveniently available at the chief administrative office of the unit.
c. If any table is set up in a prohibited or disruptive location, any University employee pointing out the
violation shall also point out other locations, as nearby as is reasonably possible, where the table is
permitted.
Identification
Each table must have a sign or literature that identifies the University person or organization sponsoring the
table.
Cleanup around Tables
Any person or organization sponsoring a table shall remove litter from the area around the table at the end of
each day.
Sources of Tables
Persons and organizations may supply their own tables. In addition, the Physical Plant maintains a supply of
tables that may be reserved and checked out for use on campus.
Exhibits and A-Frames
General Rule on Exhibits
"Exhibit" means an object or collection of related objects, designed to stand on the ground or on a raised
surface, which is not a table, is designed for temporary display, and is not permanently attached to the ground.
An A-frame sign is an exhibit.
a. University persons and organizations may erect exhibits, subject to the rules in this subchapter.
Advance permission is required from the Office of Student Life, except that an academic unit may
authorize indoor exhibits in a space that it occupies and controls.
42
Criteria for Approval
a.
The Office of Student Life shall authorize an exhibit described in the previous section unless the
director finds that use of the proposed space for the proposed exhibit must be disapproved.
b. The Director of Student Life shall specify the location of each exhibit to reduce the hazard to
pedestrians.
c. The Director of Student Life shall advise each applicant how to correct, if possible, any conditions that
preclude approval of his or her application. Even if an applicant is entitled to have its application
approved as submitted, the Director of Student Life may give advice about other possible locations, or
about modifications to the exhibit, that would avoid potential problems or make the proposed exhibit
more workable.
Time Limits
a.
In locations administered by the Office of Student Life, each exhibit may be displayed for fourteen
days. The exhibit may be renewed for an additional fourteen days if space is available.
b. The exhibit must be removed at the end of each day and may be re-erected each morning. However,
the vice president for student affairs or the Office of Student Life may authorize overnight exhibits in
designated locations. Overnight exhibit locations shall be listed on a Web site, or on a flyer or
pamphlet conveniently available in the Student Union Front Desk.
Clean Up Around Exhibits
Any person or organization sponsoring an exhibit shall remove litter from the area around the exhibit at the end
of each day.
Liability
Any person or organization sponsoring an exhibit assumes full responsibility for the exhibit, including all
injuries or hazards that may arise from the exhibit. The University shall not be liable for any damage that may
occur to the exhibit, and any person or organization sponsoring the exhibit shall indemnify the University for
any claims arising from the exhibit's presence on campus.
Amplified Sound
General Rule on Amplified Sound
University persons and organizations may use amplified sound on campus at designated times and locations,
subject to the rules in this subchapter. Advance permission is required. This subchapter creates limited
exceptions to the general rule on disruption.
Location and Times of Weekday Amplified Sound Areas
a.
1. The Mesa Courtyard Amplified Sound Area is the outdoor center of the Mesa Building.
2. University persons and organizations may use amplified sound in this area from 11:30 a.m. to
1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
b.
1. The Vice President for Student Services may designate additional areas for weekday use of
amplified sound.
43
Regulation and Scheduling of Weekday Amplified Sound
a. The Office of Student Life may prescribe rules concerning scheduling, sound levels, the location of
speakers and direction in which they are pointed, and other rules to facilitate the use of weekday
amplified sound areas, to mediate any conflict with University functions and other nearby activities,
and to manage environmental impact. All such rules shall be reasonable and nondiscriminatory.
b.
1. Persons or organizations wishing to use a weekday amplified sound area must reserve a
particular area at a particular time. Reservations must be made with the Office of Student Life
on a form prescribed by the Director. The Office of Student Life shall approve a properly
completed application to reserve an amplified sound area, unless the application must be
disapproved under rules promulgated by the Director of Student Life under the authority of
this section.
2. The Director of Student Life may limit the number or frequency of reservations for each
person or organization to ensure reasonable access for all persons and organizations desiring
to use amplified sound on weekdays.
3. In the Mesa Courtyard Amplified Sound Area, the Director of Student Life shall reserve some
time slots each week for emergency reservations by persons or organizations responding to
events that have occurred, or issues that have arisen, since the preceding week.
c. Amplified sound in the Mesa Courtyard Amplified Sound Areas is in fact disruptive of teaching,
administration. The disruption inherent in this use of amplified sound is expressly authorized, but no
other disruption is authorized. Disruption is permitted to this extent because otherwise, it would be
necessary to ban all use of amplified sound in and near the center of campus during working hours.
The hours are limited because otherwise, work in these important buildings would be continuously
disrupted.
d. Between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, all persons and organizations must use
sound equipment owned or controlled by the University.
e. Persons and organizations using amplified sound are responsible for maintaining a passageway for
pedestrians that is adequate to the volume of pedestrian traffic passing through the area.
f. Any designations of additional areas, any additional rules regulating the designated areas, and the rules
and procedures for reserving the right to use a designated area, shall be clearly stated on a Web site or
on a flyer or pamphlet conveniently available at the dean of student's office.
Amplified Sound on Evenings and Weekends
a.
With advance permission, University persons and organizations may use amplified sound in any
outdoor location on campus after 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and after 8:00 a.m. Saturday and
Sunday, except for the early morning hours excluded in paragraph (b).
b. If amplified sound is authorized for an event on a Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or
Thursday evening, the sound must be turned off by 1:00 a.m. on the following day. If amplified sound
is authorized for an event on a Friday or Saturday evening, the sound must be turned off by 2:00 a.m.
on the following day.
c. On evenings and weekends, speakers may provide their own sound equipment. Some sound equipment
may be borrowed, and other sound equipment may be rented for a nominal fee, from the Office of
Student Life.
d. The Office of Student Life may prescribe reasonable and nondiscriminatory rules concerning
scheduling, sound levels, the location of speakers and direction in which they are pointed, and other
rules to facilitate the use of amplified sound on evenings and weekends, to mediate any conflict with
University functions and other nearby activities, and to manage environmental impact.
e. Use of amplified sound on evenings and weekends requires advance permission from the Office of
Student Life. Persons and organizations shall apply on a form prescribed by the Director of Student
Life. The Director of Student Life shall authorize amplified sound as described in a completed
44
application unless the Director of Student Life finds that the application must be disapproved under
rules promulgated by the Director of Student Life under the authority of this section. The Director of
Student Life shall advise each applicant how to correct, if possible, any conditions that preclude
approval of its application. Even if an applicant is entitled to have its application approved as
submitted, the Director of Student Life may give advice about other possible locations, or about
modifications to the proposed event, that would avoid potential problems or make the proposed event
more workable. It should also be noted that use of amplified sound on evenings and weekends may be
subject to applicable city ordinances.
Amplified Sound Indoors
Amplified sound sufficient to be heard throughout the room may be used in any room in any building, but the
Office of Student Life may limit or prohibit sound that would be disruptive outside the room. Reservations
may be required.
Public Assemblies without Amplified Sound
General Rule on Public Assemblies
a.
"Publicly assemble" and "public assembly" include any gathering of persons, including discussions,
rallies, and demonstrations. The rules of the previous chapter apply to any use of amplified sound at a
public assembly.
b. University persons and organizations may publicly assemble on campus in any place where, at the
time of the assembly, the persons assembling are permitted to be. This right to assemble is subject to
the rules in this subchapter, and to the rules on use of University property. No advance permission is
required.
Reservation of Space
a.
University persons or organizations who wish to publicly assemble in a particular room or space at a
particular time may reserve the room or space.
b. An organization with a reservation has the right to the reserved room or space for the time covered by
the reservation. Any person or organization using or occupying the room or space without a
reservation must yield control of the room or space in time to permit any organization with a
reservation to begin using the room or space promptly at the beginning of its reserved time.
c. Reservations are not required but are strongly encouraged. A person or organization planning to use a
room or space without a reservation may find the facility locked or in use by another person or
organization. The University Police rely on a list of scheduled events, and a large group without a
reservation is likely to attract their courteous but inquiring attention.
Notice and Consultation
Persons or organizations that are planning a public assembly with more than fifty participants are strongly
encouraged to notify and consult with the Office of Student Life as soon as practicable after the point at which
the planners anticipate or plan for more than fifty participants. Persons or organizations planning smaller
assemblies are encouraged to consult the Office of Student Life if there is uncertainty about applicable
University rules, the appropriateness of the planned location, or possible conflict with other events. The
Director of Student Life has much experience in helping student organizations structure events in ways that
both comply with the University's rules and achieve the organization's goals for the event. The Director of
Student Life can help identify appropriate space and potentially conflicting events. The Director of Student
Life can help the planners avoid unintended disruption or other violations that may result in subsequent
discipline or subsequent interference with the assembly by campus authorities.
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Guest Speakers
Definitions
"Guest speaker" means a speaker or performer who is not a student, faculty member, or staff member.
Who May Present
Registered student, faculty, and staff organizations, and academic and administrative units, may present guest
speakers on University property. In the case of registered student organizations, advance permission from the
Office of Student Life is required. Individuals may not present a guest speaker.
Location and Form of Presentation
a.
A guest speaker may present a speech or performance, or lead a discussion, at a time announced in
advance, in a fixed indoor location, or in a fixed outdoor location approved by the Office of Student
Life. A guest speaker may distribute literature to persons who attend the speech, performance, or
discussion.
b. A guest speaker may not
1. accost potential listeners who have not chosen to attend the speech, performance, or
discussion; or
2. distribute literature to persons who have not chosen to attend the speech, performance, or
discussion; or
3. help staff a table or exhibit set up.
Application
a.
A registered student organization that wishes to present a guest speaker shall apply to the Office of
Student Life, on a form prescribed by the Director of Student Life, at least forty-eight hours before the
scheduled event or any planned advertising for the event, whichever is earlier. The application shall be
combined with an application to reserve the use of a University room or space for the event.
b. The Director of Student Life shall approve an application properly made under subsection (a).
Obligations of Presenting Organization
A student, faculty, or staff organization that presents a guest speaker must make clear that
1. the organization, and not the University, invited the speaker; and
2. the views expressed by the speaker are his or her own and do not necessarily represent the views of the
University, the University of Texas System, or any component institution.
Responding to Speech, Expression, and Assembly
General Rule on Responding
University persons and organizations may respond to the speech, expression, or assembly of others, subject to
all the rules in this chapter.
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Applications of Previous Section
a.
Responders may not damage or deface signs or exhibits, disrupt public assemblies, block the view of
participants, or prevent speakers from being heard.
b. Means of response that are permitted in many locations and without advance permission or
reservation, such as signs, tables, distribution of literature, and public assembly without amplified
sound, may be used immediately and in any location authorized in this policy.
c. Means of response that require advance permission or reservation, such as banners, A-frames,
exhibits, and amplified sound, may be used as soon as the needed permission or reservation may be
arranged. Banner space and some amplified sound areas may be unavailable on short notice because of
earlier reservations, but the Office of Student Life shall expedite approval of A-frames, exhibits, and
available banner space and amplified sound areas where necessary to permit appropriate response to
other speech, assembly, or expression.
d. Means of response that are confined to authorized locations, such as banners and amplified sound,
may be used only in those locations. It is not possible to respond to amplified sound with amplified
sound in the same location; similarly if an exhibit or public assembly is in a location where amplified
sound is not permitted, it is not possible to respond with amplified sound in that location. In either
case, it is possible to respond with amplified sound in another location and to use signs or distribution
of literature to advertise the response at the other location.
Enforcement and Appeals
Police Protection
a.
It is the responsibility of the University to protect the safety of all persons on campus and to provide
police protection for speakers, public assemblies, persons staffing or viewing exhibits, and other
events. The normal patrolling of officers during regular duty areas in the area of such events will be at
the cost of the University. When the magnitude, timing, or nature of an event requires overtime hours
from police officers (including contract hours for officers hired from other departments or private
security agencies), the University will, to the extent specified in subsections (b) and (c), charge the
cost of overtime or contract officers to the person or organization sponsoring the event or exhibit that
requires overtime police protection. The purpose of subsections (b) and (c) is to charge for police
overtime where reasonably possible, but not to charge for police overtime made necessary by the
content of speech at the event or by the controversy associated with any event.
b. A reasonable and nondiscriminatory fee for overtime police work will be charged for events that
require overtime police protection, and
1. charge a price for admission, or
2. pay a speaker, band, or other off-campus person or organization for services at the event.
Persons or organizations planning such events should budget for the cost of police protection.
The University shall have the sole power to decide, after reasonable consultation with the person or
organization planning the event, whether and to what extent overtime police protection is required. No
fee shall be charged for officers assigned because of political, religious, philosophical, ideological, or
academic controversy anticipated or actually experienced at the event. All fees shall be based on the
number of officers required for an uncontroversial event of the same size and kind, in the same place
and at the same time of day, handling the same amount of cash.
d. Nothing in this section applies to any interdepartmental charge or transfer among units or accounts
funded by the University.
c.
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Response to Violations
a.
A student who violates a prohibition in this chapter may be disciplined under the disciplinary
procedures set forth by the university.
b. A faculty member who violates a prohibition in this chapter may be disciplined under applicable
procedures provided by other rules. If no such procedures exist, violations by faculty members shall be
referred to the Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost.
c. A staff member who violates a prohibition in this chapter may be disciplined under applicable
procedures provided by other rules. If no such procedures exist, violations by staff members shall be
referred to Office of Human Resources.
d. Authorized University personnel may prevent imminently threatened violations, or end ongoing
violations, of a prohibition in this chapter, by explanation and persuasion, by reasonable physical
intervention, by arrest of violators, or by any other lawful measures. Alternatively or additionally, they
may initiate disciplinary proceedings under paragraph (a), (b), or (c). Discretion regarding the means
and necessity of enforcement shall be vested in the chief of police, or in University personnel
designated by the president, as appropriate, but such discretion shall be exercised without regard to the
viewpoint of any speaker.
e. Persons and organizations on the campus shall comply with instructions from University
administrators and law enforcement officials at the scene. A person or organization that complies with
an on-the-scene order limiting speech, expression, or assembly may test the propriety of that order in
an appeal.
Appeals
a.
A person or organization that is denied permission for an activity requiring advance permission under
this chapter may appeal the denial of permission.
b. A person or organization that complies with an on-the-scene order limiting speech, expression, or
assembly may, on or before the fifth weekday after complying with the order, file an appeal to
determine the propriety of the order limiting the speech, expression, or assembly. The question on
appeal shall be whether, under the circumstances as they reasonably appeared at the time of the order,
the appellant's speech, expression, or assembly should have been permitted to continue. Such an
appeal may be useful to clarify the meaning of a rule, or to resolve a factual dispute that may recur if
the appellant desires to resume the speech, expression, or assembly that was limited by the order.
Student Records
Registrar
MB 1231
(432) 552-2635
Questions concerning a student’s UT Permian Basin academic record, TASP status, adding or dropping
courses, change of name, change of address, change of residency, classrooms, registration, graduation, honors,
45 plus hour rule, academic probation or dismissal, and withdrawal from The University should be referred to
the Office of the Registrar.
 Adding/Dropping Courses
Courses may be added or dropped by completing a drop or add form in the Registrar's Office. Courses
dropped after the 10th class day requires the signature of the instructor. The last day to drop will be at the end
of the 10th week of class. Consult the current semester class schedule for add and drop deadlines and refund
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policies. Be sure to make a note of the last date to drop. Courses cannot be dropped after that date. There are
no refunds for drops after the 12th class day.
 Withdrawing from all Classes
Students wishing to terminate attendance in all courses, in which they are registered prior to the end of the
term, must withdraw from The University. A withdrawal form must be completed and taken to various
departments to obtain clearance. The withdrawal cannot be processed until all signatures are obtained and the
form is returned to the Office of the Registrar. Students withdrawing before the first class day will receive a
100% refund minus a $15 matriculation fee and the non-refundable fees. Please refer to the course schedule
for a list of non-refundable fees and a refund chart.
PLEASE NOTE: THE STUDENT MUST INITIATE ALL ADD/DROP OR WITHDRAWAL
PROCEDURES.
FAILURE TO ATTEND CLASS WILL NOT RESULT IN AUTOMATIC
WITHDRAWAL BY THE UNIVERSITY. FAILURE TO OFFICIALLY DROP A COURSE WHICH
YOU HAVE STOPPED ATTENDING WILL RESULT IN A GRADE OF “F”.
 Six Drop Rule: Section 51.907 of the Texas Education Code states,
“an institution of higher education may not permit a student to drop more
than six courses, including any course a transfer student has dropped at
another institution of higher education.” This rule is in effect for all
freshman students who entered college for the first time during the Fall 2007
semester or later.
 Thirty credit hour limit rule (FOR FRESHMEN ENTERING
DURING FALL 2006)
As of the Fall 2006 Semester, first time freshmen, and entering freshmen thereafter, fall under the 30 Plus
Hour Rule. The rule states that students who attempt more than 30 credit hours over their degree plan at Texas
State funded institutions of higher education and have not yet earned a baccalaureate degree will be charged
out-of-state tuition. Attempted hours includes hours a student is registered for through the census class day.
Any courses dropped prior to the census class day will not be considered attempted hours by the State.
Students who has a transcript of course work prior to the Fall of 2006 are grandfathered from the 30 Plus Hour
Rule but may fall under the 45 Plus Hour Rule.
 Forty-Five credit hour limit rule
As of the Fall 1999 Semester, first time freshmen, and entering freshmen thereafter, fall under the 45 Plus
Hour Rule. The rule states that students who attempt more than 45 credit hours over their degree plan at Texas
State funded institutions of higher education and have not yet earned a baccalaureate degree will be charged
out-of-state tuition. Attempted hours include hours a student is registered for through the census class day. Any
courses dropped prior to the census class day will not be considered attempted hours by the State. Students
who have transcripted course work prior to the Fall of 1999 are grandfathered from the 45 Plus Hour Rule.
 Change of Name/Address
The student’s official address of record is maintained in the Office of the Registrar. This address will be used
for all correspondence, including official notification of grades and academic status, such as academic honors
or probation. In addition, other university offices such as Financial Aid, the library, accounting, and others
rely on the official address of record as it is kept in the Registrar’s office. Any change or name or address
must be made in the Office of the Registrar. Changes in social security numbers require that the student
present a social security card as proof of the change. Please keep the Registrar informed of each address
change while you are a student to be sure you receive important mail from the University.


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 Class Attendance
Regulation of class attendance is the option of the instructor. It is the responsibility of the student to determine
if class attendance is mandatory or is counted as part of the grade earned. International students and veterans
receiving educational benefits are encouraged to check with the Office of Admissions and the Office of the
Registrar for specific regulations governing their class attendance.
 Class Attendance on Religious Holy Days
Students may be excused from class for religious holy days. Please see the Academic Regulations section of
the University Catalog for specific information.
 Grading
Grade point averages are calculated on a 4.0 scale. To calculate your grade point average, multiply the course
hours times the grade points ( A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1) and add up all your classes. For example, three hours of
A (=12 points) plus six hours of B (=18) plus three hours of C (=6) give you a total of 36 credit points, divide
that by the total hours you took (36/12= 3) and you know your grade point average (3.00). Do not include in
the calculation courses for which a grade of “S” was earned. A grade of “U” calculates the same as an “F”.
 Graduation
A Graduation Application must be completed either at registration or in the Office of the Registrar before the
12th class day of the semester the student plans to graduate. Information concerning degree requirements can
be found in the “Degree Requirements” section of the University Catalog. There is a graduation fee, which is
not refundable, and must be paid each semester a student applies to graduate. The University holds August,
December, and May commencement ceremonies each year. All students who apply to graduate will receive
information concerning commencement dates, caps, gowns, and announcements.
 Graduation with Honors
Students are eligible to graduate with Latin Honors if they have completed a minimum of 48 hours at UT
Permian Basin, are receiving their first baccalaureate degree, and have a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or above.
Grade point requirements for Latin Honors are as follows:
Cum Laude
3.50-3.7
Magna Cum Laude
3.80-3.89
Summa Cum Laude
3.90-4.00
Graduate students are not eligible for Latin Honors.
 Dean’s Honor Roll
Undergraduate students are eligible for Dean’s honors if they have completed 12 hours at UT Permian Basin,
are seeking their first bachelor’s degree, and have earned a semester GPA of 3.50 to 3.99
 President’s Honor Roll
Undergraduate students are eligible for President’s Honors if they have accumulated 12 hours at UT Permian
Basin, are seeking their first bachelor’s degree, and have earned a semester GPA of 4.00. For additional
information, please see the “Grading Policies” section of the University Catalog.
 Permanent Records/Undergraduate Students
Official files are maintained in the Office of the Registrar. Requests for copies of any item in the file, for
which a fee will be charged, must be made in the Office of the Registrar. All transcripts submitted to the
University become the official property of the University.
 Probation and Dismissal
Students who have attempted 12 or more credit hours and have a GPA of less than 2.00 will be placed on
academic probation. Students on academic probation have 12 hours or 2 semesters, whichever occurs first, to
raise their GPA to a minimum of 2.00. Failure to raise the GPA can result in academic dismissal. Please see
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the “Grading Policies” section of the Catalog for more detailed information concerning academic dismissal and
the student’s right of appeal.
 Transcripts
Transcripts of grades earned at UT Permian Basin are available in the Office of the Registrar. The Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act requires that the student sign all transcript requests and releases.
Transcripts cannot be requested by phone.
 Web Courses
Registration procedures are not different for web courses. Web courses do require that the student have
frequent access to a computer and the Internet. Students should be aware that web courses are not self-paced.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. Sec. 1232g, and the Texas Public
Information Act, Texas Government Code Sec. 552.001 et seq., are respectively a federal and state law that
provide for the review and disclosure of student educational records. In accordance with these laws the
University has adopted the following policy.
FERPA rights apply to a student, a person who is or who has been attending this institution regardless of age.
FERPA applies to personally identifiable information in educational records. Personal identifiable information
includes items such as the student's name, social security numbers, and personal characteristics or other
information that make the student identity easily accessible or traceable.
Terms defined for students under FERPA:
Educational Records
They are all records that contain information that is directly related to a student and that are maintained by an
educational agency or institution or by a party acting on its behalf. By definition educational record means any
information recorded in any way, including but not limited to handwriting, print, tape, film, microfilm,
microfiche and digital image.
What is not included in my educational record?
Sole possession records (note kept in sole possession of the maker: ex. personal notes or
personal memory aids)
Medical or psychological treatment records
Employment records, where the employment is not
dependent on being a student Law Enforcement records
Records that may be collected after an individual is not a
students at this institution have some control over disclosure of information from his or
her educational record
Student right to review record
Upon written request, the University shall provide a student access to his or her educational records except for
financial records of the student's parents or legal guardian; and confidential letters of recommendation where
the student has signed a waiver of right of access. If the records contain information on more than one student,
the requesting student may inspect, review or be informed on only the specific information about his or her
own records. Educational Records are normally made available to student within forty to forty-five days from
the date requested. The contents of the student's educational records may be challenged by the student on the
51
grounds that they are inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the privacy rights of the student by the
submitting a written statement to the custodian of the records (University Registrar).
The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act was not intended to provide a process to be used to question
substantial judgments that are correctly recorded. Under these specification students may not request
adjustments be made to grades that are recorded as issued by the faculty, outcomes to disciplinary hearing,
judgments recorded as part of an assessment process, and to other correctly documented judgments. Student
must refer to other institutional process to address these concerns.
A student may obtain copies of their record at a charge of 10 cent per page, unofficial transcripts from other
institutions $2 per page, and unofficial copy of the University at no charge, and official transcript of the
University at the charge of $7.00.
Directory information
FERPA identifies certain information as directory information, which can be disclosed without the student's
permission. Here is what the University defines as directory information:
Student's Name, address, telephone listing, electronic
mail address date and place of birth, photographs
Participation in official recognized
activities and sports Field of study
Weight and height of athlete
Enrollment Status (Full-, part-time,
undergraduate, graduate) degree & awards received dates of
attendance
most recent previous school attended
*Marital status
*Religious preference
*Student Parking permit information
*Current Class Schedule
*Current number of hours enrolled
*Class roster
NOTE: For public institutions in Texas, the asterisk denotes additional items the Attorney General of the
State of Texas has determined to be public information.
Withholding Information
Students may have any or all directory information withheld by notifying the Office of the Registrar in writing
each semester during the first 12 days of class of a fall or spring semester or the first 4 class days of a summer
semesters. A request to withhold information may be submitted after the stated deadline for a term, but
information may be released between the deadline and receipt of the request. A student who has asked to be
excluded from any directory information release will remain flagged until the student requests that the flag be
removed.
Access to student educational records:
FERPA, non-directory information may not be released without written consent from the students. As a
service to the student the University has policy to release certain information to outside requestor only and
52
when a student has completed a student FERPA release of information form. This form is available to student
at the Office of the Registrar or the Office of Vice President for Student Services.
The University will not permit access to or the release of personally identifiable information contained in
student education records without the written consent of the student to any party, except as follows:
•
To appropriate University officials who require access to education records in order to perform their
legitimate education duties;
•
To Officials of other schools in which the student seeks or intends to enroll, upon request of these
officials, and upon the condition that the student be notified and receive copy of the record if desired;
•
To federal, state, or local officials or agencies authorized by law;
•
In connection with a student’s application for, or receipt of, financial aid;
•
To accrediting organizations or organizations conducting educational studies, provided that these
organizations do not release personally identifiable data and destroy such data when it is no longer needed
for the purpose it was obtained;
•
To the parents of a dependent student as defined in section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954,
provided a reasonable effort is made to notify the student in advance;
•
In compliance with a judicial order or subpoena, provided a reasonable effort is made to notify the
student in advance unless such subpoena specifically directs the institution not to disclose the existence of
a subpoena;
•
In an emergency situation if the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the students or
other persons; or
•
To an alleged victim of any crime of violence, the results of the alleged perpetrator’s disciplinary
proceeding may be released.
Legitimate Educational interest or duties:
It is access to education records by the appropriate University administrator, faculty, or staff who requires
access in order to perform their official duties and business. Details on the University’s policies and procedures
on the access to student records can be found in the University’s Handbook of Operating Procedures, Part VI
Section 15. This can be found at the following internet address: www.utpb.edu.
Complaints regarding alleged failure to comply with the provision of the FERPA may be submitted in writing
to the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 600 Independent Avenue S.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
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POLICY STATEMENTS
Acceptable Use Policy for State-Owned Information Resources
26.1 Definitions
Information Resources include all computer and telecommunications hardware, software, and networks owned,
leased, or operated by The University of Texas System and the information stored therein.
26.2 Restrictions
This Acceptable Use Policy establishes usage restrictions for the utilization of state-owned information
resources at The University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB). These restrictions support State law,
Texas Administrative Code (TAC) requirements, Department of Information Resources (DIR) requirements,
and/or UT System Business Procedures Memorandum 53 requirements.
26.21 Any use of UTPB information resources for illegal purposes, or in support of illegal activities, is
prohibited.
Violation of software copyright and/or licensing restrictions is illegal.
26.22 All use of UTPB information resources must be in support of education and research in the State
Of Texas and consistent with the purpose of the institution.
26.221 Any use of UTPB information resources for commercial purposes is prohibited without the
express written consent of the UTPB Information Resource Manager.
26.222 Any use of UTPB information resources for product advertisement or political lobbying is
prohibited.
26.223 Any use of UTPB information resources for the production, duplication, distribution, receipt
and/or transmission of any material which might be considered pornographic and/or obscene is
prohibited.
26.224 No use of UTPB information resources shall serve to disrupt the use of the resources by other
users.
26.23 All access accounts for UTPB information resources will be used only by the authorized owner
of the account for the authorized purpose and in compliance with established computer security
policies.
26.24 Any UTPB information resource user which traverses another network may be subject to the
acceptable use policy of that network.
26.25 At least once each year, the UTPB Information Resources Division will make decisions on
whether specific uses of UTPB information resources are consistent with this policy.
26.26 Failure to comply with Acceptable Use Policy will constitute cause for termination of resource
access.
Alcohol and Drug-Free Schools and Communities
Series 50000, Section 2 of the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Regents of The University of Texas
System provides for disciplinary action against any student who engages in conduct that is prohibited by state,
54
federal, or local law. This includes those laws prohibiting the use, possession, or distribution of drugs and
alcohol.
Health Risks of Alcohol and Drugs
Alcohol. Health hazards associated with the excessive use of alcohol or with alcohol dependency include
dramatic behavioral changes, retardation of motor skills, and impairment of reasoning and rational thinking.
These factors result in a higher incidence of accidents and accidental death for such persons than for non-users
of alcohol. Nutrition also suffers and vitamin and mineral deficiencies are frequent. Prolonged alcohol abuse
causes bleeding from the intestinal tract, damage to nerves and the brain, psychotic behavior, loss of memory
and coordination, damage to the liver often resulting in cirrhosis, impotence, severe inflammation of the
pancreas, and damage to the bone marrow, heart, testes, ovaries, and muscles. Damage to the nerves and organs
is usually irreversible. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in alcoholics and is 10 times more frequent
than in non-alcoholics. Sudden withdrawal of alcohol from persons dependent on it will cause serious physical
withdrawal symptoms. Drinking during pregnancy can cause fetal alcohol syndrome. Overdoses of alcohol
can result in respiratory arrest and death.
Drugs. The use of illicit drugs usually causes the same general type of physiological and mental changes as
alcohol, though frequently those changes are more severe and more sudden. Death or coma resulting from
overdose of drugs is more frequent than from alcohol.
Cocaine. Cocaine is a stimulant that is most commonly inhaled as a powder. It can be dissolved in water and
used intravenously. The cocaine extract (crack) is smoked. Users can progress from infrequent use to
dependence within a few weeks or months. Psychological and behavioral changes resulting from use include
over-stimulation, hallucinations, irritability, sexual dysfunction, psychotic behavior, social isolation, and
memory problems. An overdose produces convulsions and delirium and may result in death from cardiac
arrest. Discontinuing the use of cocaine requires considerable assistance, close supervision and treatment.
Amphetamines. Patterns of use and associated effects are similar to cocaine. Severe intoxication may produce
confusion, rambling or incoherent speech, anxiety, psychotic behavior, ringing in the ears, hallucinations, and
irreversible brain damage. Intense fatigue and depression resulting from use can lead to severe depression.
Large doses may result in convulsions and death from cardiac or respiratory arrest.
MDA and MDMA (XTC, ecstasy). These amphetamine-based hallucinogens are sold in powder, tablet, or
capsule form and can be inhaled, injected, or swallowed. They cause similar, but usually milder,
hallucinogenic effects than those of LSD. Because they are amphetamines, tolerance can develop quickly and
overdose can happen. Exhaustion and possible liver damage can occur with heavy use. In high doses, these
drugs can cause anxiety, paranoia and delusions. While rare, these drugs have been associated with deaths in
users with known or previously undiagnosed heart conditions.
Rhohypnol (rophies, roofies, rope).This drug is in the same category of drugs as Valium, a benzodiazepine,
but it is more potent than Valium. Initially, it causes a sense of relaxation and reduction of anxiety. At higher
doses, light-headedness, dizziness, lack of coordination and slurred speech occur. The drug affects memory
and, in higher doses or if mixed with other drugs or alcohol, can result in amnesia for the time period the user
is under the influence. Because of this amnesia effect, Rhohypnol has been given intentionally to others to
facilitate sexual assault and other crimes. Combining this drug with other sedating drugs, including alcohol,
will increase the intensity of all effects of the drug and, in sufficient doses, can cause respiratory arrest and
death. Dependency can occur.
55
Heroin and other opiates. These drugs are usually taken intravenously. "Designer" drugs similar to opiates
include fentanyl, Demerol, and "china white." Addiction and dependence develop rapidly. Use is characterized
by impaired judgment, slurred speech, and drowsiness. Overdose is manifested by coma, shock, and depressed
respiration, with the possibility of death from respiratory arrest. Withdrawal problems include sweating,
diarrhea, fever, insomnia, irritability, nausea and vomiting, and muscle and joint pains.
Hallucinogens or psychedelics. These include LSD, mescaline, peyote, and phencyclidine (PCP or "angel
dust"). Use impairs and distorts one's perception of surroundings, causes bizarre mood changes and results in
visual hallucinations that involve geometric forms, colors, and persons or objects. Users who discontinue use
experience "flashback" consisting of distortions of virtually any sensation. Withdrawal may require psychiatric
treatment for the accompanying persistent psychotic states. Suicide is not uncommon.
Solvent inhalants, e.g. glue, lacquers, plastic cement. Fumes from these substances cause problems similar
to alcohol. Incidents of hallucinations and permanent brain damage are more frequent with chronic use.
Marijuana (Cannabis). Marijuana is usually ingested by smoking. Smoking marijuana causes disconnected
ideas, alteration of depth perception and sense of time, impaired judgment, and impaired coordination.
Prolonged use can lead to psychological dependence.
Damage from intravenous drug use. In addition to the adverse effects associated with the use of a specific
drug, intravenous drug users who use unsterilized needles or who share needles with other drug users can
develop HIV disease, hepatitis, tetanus (lock jaw), and infections in the heart. Permanent damage may also
result.
University Penalties
Students. The University will impose a minimum disciplinary penalty of suspension for a specified period of
time or suspension of rights and privileges, or both, for conduct related to the use, possession, or distribution of
drugs that are prohibited by state, federal, or local law. Other penalties that may be imposed for conduct related
to the unlawful use, possession, or distribution of drugs or alcohol include disciplinary probation, payment for
damage to or misappropriation of property, suspension of rights and privileges, suspension for a specified
period of time, expulsion, or such other penalty as may be deemed appropriate under the circumstances.
PENALTIES UNDER STATE AND FEDERAL LAW
PENALTIES UNDER STATE LAW
I. TEXAS STATUTES
OFFENSE
Manufacture or delivery of
Controlled substances
(drugs)
MINIMUM PUNISHMENT
Confinement in jail for a term
of not more than 2 years or less
than 180 days, and a fine not to
exceed $10,000
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MAXIMUM PUNISHMENT
Imprisonment for life or for a
term of not more than 99 years
nor less than 15 years, and a
fine not to exceed $250,000
Possession of controlled
substances (drugs)
Confinement in jail for a term
of not more than 180 days, a
fine not to exceed $2,000, or
both
Imprisonment for life or for a
term of not more than 99 years
nor less than 10 years, and a
fine not to exceed $250,000
Delivery of marijuana
Confinement in jail for a term
not more than 180 days, a fine
not to exceed $2,000, or both
Imprisonment for life or for a
term of not more than 99 years
nor less than 10 years, and a
fine not to exceed $100,000
Possession of marijuana
Confinement in jail for a term
not more than 180 days, a fine
not to exceed $2,000, or both
Imprisonment for life or for a
term of not more than 99 years
nor less than 5 years, and a fine
not to exceed $50,000
Driving while intoxicated
(includes intoxication from
alcohol, drugs, or both)
Confinement in jail for a term
of not more than 180 days nor
less than 72 hours, and a fine of
not more than $2,000
Imprisonment for a term of not
more than 10 years nor less
than 2 years, and a fine not to
exceed $10,000
Public intoxication
A fine not to exceed $500
Varies with age and number of
offenses
Purchase of alcohol by a minor
A fine not to exceed $500
Varies with number of offenses
Consumption or possession of
A fine not to exceed $500
Varies with number of offenses
57
alcohol by a minor
Sale of alcohol to a minor
A fine not to exceed $4000 or
confinement in jail for not more
than one year, or both
A fine not to exceed $4000 or
confinement in jail for not more
than one year, or both
PENALTIES UNDER FEDERAL LAW
II. FEDERAL STATUTES*
PUNISHMENT
MINIMUM
PUNISHMENT
MAXIMUM OFFENSE
Manufacture, distribution, or
dispensing drugs (includes
marijuana)
A term of imprisonment for up
to 5 years and a fine of
$250,000
A term of life imprisonment
without release (no eligibility
for parole) and a fine not to
exceed $8,000,000 (for an
individual) or $20,000,000 (if
other than an individual)
Possession of drugs (including
marijuana)
Imprisonment for up to one
year and a fine of not less than
$1,000
Imprisonment for not more
than 20 years or less than 5
years and a fine of not less than
$5,000 plus costs of
investigation & prosecution
Operation of a Common
Carrier under the influence of
alcohol or drugs
Imprisonment for up to 15
years and a fine not to exceed
$250,000
*Penalties may be enhanced for prior offenses and offenses within specific distances of a public
university.
AVAILABLE DRUG OR ALCOHOL COUNSELING OR REHABILITATION SERVICES
University Counseling Services – FB054 – 552-2365
Permian Basin Regional Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse – 1101 Whitaker, Odessa, Texas – 5805100
58
Call to Military Service
Beginning with the summer semester of 1990, if a student withdraws from an institution of higher
education because the student is called to active military service, the institution, at the student's option,
shall:
(1)
withdraws;
refund the tuition and fees paid by the student for the semester in which the student
(2)
grant a student, who is eligible under the institution's guidelines, an incomplete grade in
all courses by designating "withdrawn-military" on the student's transcript; or
(3)
as determined by the instructor, assign an appropriate final grade or credit to a student
who has satisfactorily completed a substantial amount of coursework and who has demonstrated sufficient
mastery of the course material.
Crime Awareness and Campus Security
This information is being provided as part of The University of Texas of the Permian Basin’s commitment
to safety and security on campus and complies with the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of
1990 (Clery Act).
Crime Reporting Policy, Procedures and Responses
This report is prepared in cooperation with the police agencies surrounding the campus, University
Housing, Dean of Students, and the University Counseling Center.
This report includes statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on
campus, in certain off-campus buildings owned or controlled by UTPB and on any public property within,
or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. The report also includes institutional policies
concerning campus security, alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, reporting of crimes, sexual assault
and other matters.
Reporting Crimes or Other Emergencies
Criminal activity and other emergencies occurring on campus should be reported immediately to the
UTPB Police by telephone, blue-light phone, or in person at the police department, or by contacting a
police officer on patrol. This will enable us to provide the best possible assistance to you and to make
timely warning to the UTPB community when needed.
PHONE NUMBERS:
EMERGENCY - POLICE / FIRE* / MEDICAL*
9-1-1
24-HOUR
For TDD Service:
(800) 735-2989
NON-EMERGENCY Dispatch
432-552-2787
The University Police Department is responsible for law enforcement, security and emergency response at
all UTPB facilities. The primary office of the University Police Department is located on the first floor of
59
the Mesa Building, MB1200. The University Police Department is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,
staffed by commissioned Texas Police Officers and supported by civilian personnel and
noncommissioned security guards. For non-emergency assistance, dial 432-552-2787.
A number of well-marked exterior emergency telephones are located throughout the campus (primarily in
parking lots). These emergency telephones can be used to report crimes, emergencies or to request police
services.
The University Police Department annually surveys the campus grounds to insure that shrubbery, trees
and other vegetation do not impede light disbursement or interfere with walkways. The campus
community is encouraged to report any safety concerns, exterior lighting, and emergency telephone
malfunctions to the University Police Department at 432-552-2787.
Working Relationships with State and Local Police
The University Police Department maintains close working relationships with the City of Odessa Police
Department, Ector County Sheriff’s Office, federal, state and other law enforcement agencies and
routinely shares investigative information. The University Police Department also works closely with the
Odessa Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services.
Crime Prevention
Security awareness and crime prevention programs are based upon a dual concept of eliminating or
minimizing criminal opportunities whenever possible and encouraging students, faculty and staff to share
the responsibility for their own safety and for others. Below is a list of the current Crime Prevention and
Security Awareness projects:
1. Crime prevention brochures and other printed materials are presented during each registration
period. Crime prevention literature related to personal safety, auto theft prevention, and
residential security is available at various locations throughout the campus. Specialized crime
prevention literature is available upon special request.
2. An electronic security alarm system located at the University Police Information Center and
monitored by a local alarm company provides a comprehensive network of intrusion detection
and duress alarm systems.
3. Crime awareness and crime prevention articles and crime statistics are distributed monthly to the
campus community through the campus. Similar information is printed in the campus newspaper,
The Mesa Journal.
4. Operation identification - the engraving of serial numbers or owner recognized numbers on items
of value and the cataloging of items. Tools are available for checkout at the Police Department,
Information Center.
5. Security surveys - Ongoing comprehensive security surveys of exterior lighting, exterior doors
and grounds are conducted by physical plant and police employees.
6. Facilities surveys - An ongoing program known as "directed patrol" and “park and walks” are
made at irregular intervals during each shift. A "directed patrol" is a walk through all buildings
where officers or guards look for, or are alerted to suspicious activities. A “park and walk”
involves guards and officers parking their patrol vehicle and conducting foot patrols of selected
areas of the campus. All these types of patrols are documented in the Emergency
Communications Center.
7. There are six emergency telephones located in parking lots and on sidewalks around the campus,
which are hooked directly on the Information Center during normal business hours and to the on
duty officer’s cell phone after close of business each day. These telephones are identified by blue
60
strobe lights and are in operation 24 hours a day. Pressing the large button and speaking into the
microphone actuates the telephone.
8. Safety Escort Program - Upon request, safety escorts are provided to locations on campus during
hours of darkness.
9. Crime prevention presentations pertaining to personal safety, sexual assault prevention, alcohol
and drug awareness, burglary, and theft prevention are conducted as needed for faculty, staff and
students. Specialized crime prevention presentations are available upon special request.
For additional crime prevention information or to schedule a crime prevention presentation, please call
University Police Department at 432-552-2787.
WEAPONS
In accordance with Texas Penal Code Ch. 46, it is a felony to intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly
possess a firearm, illegal knife, or prohibited weapon (with or without a concealed handgun permit) on the
physical premises of a school or educational institution, to include any buildings or passenger
transportation vehicles under the direct control of the educational institution.
CRIME REPORTING
Efforts are made to inform members of the campus community on a timely basis about campus crime and
crime-related problems. These efforts include the following:
1. Annual report – Crime statistics are compiled yearly and are available to the media and to any
member of the campus community.
2. Student newspapers – A summary of recent crime statistics will be prepared by the University
Police Department and published in the student newspaper.
3. Campus Alert Flyers – in special circumstances, printed crime alerts are prepared and distributed
selectively or randomly throughout the campus.
4. Electronic alerts – in special circumstances, crime alerts are posted via the University web site
and through e-mail.
61
CRIME STATISTICS
In compliance with the Campus Security Act of 1990, the annual crime report includes statistics for the
past three calendar years.
UTPB - MAIN CAMPUS
Crime on Campus Report 2011-2013
On
Residential
Non-Campus
Public
Campus
Facilities
Buildings &
Property
2011
0
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
0
(reported to other campus officials)
2012
2013
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Non-Forcible Sex Offenses
2011
0
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
0
2013
1
1
1
0
2
2011
0
0
0
0
0
(reported to other campus officials)
2012
2013
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Robbery
2011
3
2
0
0
3
2012
0
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
0
2013
2
2
0
0
2
2011
7
7
0
0
7
2012
1
1
0
0
1
2013
4
3
0
0
4
2011
0
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
1
0
1
2011
0
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
0
Offense Type
Murder and Non-Negligent
Manslaughter
Negligent Manslaughter
Forcible Sex Offenses
Forcible Sex OffensesNot Reported to Police
Non-Forcible Sex OffensesNot Reported to Police
Aggravated Assault
Burglary
Motor Vehicle Theft
Arson
Year
62
Total
Property
Family, Dating Violence & Stalking
Not
Required
2012
2011
Not
Required
2013
0
0
0
1
1
Offense Type
Year
UTPB - MAIN CAMPUS
Arrests for Liquor Law, Drug and Weapons Violations
On
Residential
Non-Campus
Public
Campus
Facilities
Buildings &
Property
Offense Type
Year
Liquor Law Violations
2011
27
13
14
0
2012
12
1
5
0
2013
28
27
8
0
2011
3
2
4
0
2012
7
1
18
0
2013
13
6
21
0
2011
1
0
0
0
2012
0
0
1
0
2013
0
0
7
0
Drug Violations
Weapons Violations
Property
UTPB - MAIN CAMPUS
Judicial Referrals for Liquor Law, Drug and Weapons Violations
On
Housing
Non-Campus
Public
Campus
Facilities
Buildings &
Property
Total
Offense Type
Year
Liquor Law Violations
2011
3
3
0
0
3
2012
12
12
0
0
12
2013
11
11
0
0
11
2011
0
0
0
0
0
2012
7
0
0
0
7
2013
0
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
0
Drug Violations
Weapons Violations
Property
For more information regarding crime statistics reporting for this and other campuses, visit the Office of
Postsecondary Education (OPE) website at: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/index.html
63
Notes:
"Referrals" are violations handled by campus disciplinary authorities and/or police that do not result in
arrests. Data include employees and students.
The term "non-campus buildings" includes the areas off campus that registered student organizations have
reported they own or control. The University has no responsibility for security policies, procedures, or
safety at these locations.
Public property includes thoroughfares, streets, sidewalks, and parking facilities that are within the
campus or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. All reported data for violations
occurring on Adjacent Public Property are obtained from Odessa Police Department crime reports.
For more information regarding crime statistics reporting for this and other campuses visit the OPE
website at http://www.ed.gov/offices/OPE/index.html
* () indicates number of incidents at the Campus Student Housing.
UTPB – Midland Campus
Crime on Campus Report 2011-2013
On
Residential
Non-Campus
Public
Campus
Facilities
Buildings &
Property
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
Forcible Sex OffensesNot Reported to Police
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
(reported to other campus officials)
2013
0
0
0
0
Non-Forcible Sex Offenses
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
Non-Forcible Sex OffensesNot Reported to Police
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
(reported to other campus officials)
2013
0
0
0
0
Robbery
2011
0
0
0
0
Offense Type
Murder and Non-Negligent
Manslaughter
Negligent Manslaughter
Forcible Sex Offenses
Year
64
Property
2012
0
0
0
0
2010
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
2013
Aggravated Assault
Burglary
Motor Vehicle Theft
Arson
UTPB - Midland Campus
Arrests for Liquor Law, Drug and Weapons Violations
On
Residential
Non-Campus
Public
Campus
Facilities
Buildings &
Property
Year
Liquor Law Violations
Drug Violations
Weapons Violations
Property
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
UTPB - Midland Campus
Judicial Referrals for Liquor Laws, Drug and Weapons Violations
On
Residential
Non-Campus
Public
Campus
Facilities
Buildings &
Property
Offense Type
Year
Liquor Law Violations
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
Property
65
Drug Violations
Weapons Violations
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
2011
0
0
0
0
2012
0
0
0
0
2013
0
0
0
0
For more information regarding crime statistics reporting for this and other campuses, visit the Office of
Postsecondary Education (OPE) website at: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/index.html
Hate Crimes – UTPB - Midland Campus (Calendar years: 2011-2013)
An institution must also report, by category of prejudice, the following crimes reported to the university police or
other campus security authority that manifest evidence that the victim was intentionally selected because of the
victim’s actual or perceived race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or disability. Any of the crimes
listed above, as well as theft, simple assault, intimidation, and destruction/ damage/ vandalism of property or any
other crime involving bodily injury.
 For the calendar years reported (2011 – 2103), there were no hate crimes reported on the UTPB –
Midland CampuSex Offender Registry and Access to Related Information
Enforcement Authority / Other Police Agencies
University Police Officers are vested with full law enforcement powers under Section 51.203, Texas
Education Code. Officers must meet training requirements mandated by the Texas Commission on Law
Enforcement Officers Standards and Education, as well as training designed to meet the needs of the
university community. As University Police Officers, their police authority extends throughout Ector and
Midland Counties.
All criminal incidents are investigated by police officers. UTPB police with local municipal police
agencies and county sheriff's departments as well as the Texas Department of Public Safety maintains a
cooperative relationship. This cooperation includes training programs, special events, coordination and
investigation of serious incidents. Cases are filed with both the Ector County and Midland County District
Attorney offices, depending on the violation location. Information may also be given to the V.P.S.S. for
action involving students.
The University requests that all crimes or suspected crimes occurring on campus be reported to the
University Police Department as soon as possible.
Timely Warning
To help prevent crimes or serious incidents, a Timely Warning may be issued by the judgment of the
University Police Chief. The warning may be issued by campus wide e-mail, News media, UTPB website,
posted bulletin boards, or campus closure. Anyone with information warranting a timely warning should
report it to the University Police.
Most campus buildings and facilities are accessible to members of the campus community and their
guests and visitors during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, and for limited hours on the
66
weekends (this excludes most holidays). Students have access to the buildings during all scheduled class
sessions including laboratory, library study and research periods.
After normal business hours, including weekends and holidays, all campus buildings are considered
closed and secured. Persons needing entry must sign in at Mesa Building Information Center or utilize
"late door entry" procedures. Late doors are equipped with electronic locks and closed circuit television
cameras. This electronic access control system can allow access to those persons authorized entry and
assigned a code for the system. Exterior building doors on campus are equipped with electronic alarms,
which annunciate at the alarm monitoring company during prohibited hours. A member of the UTPB
Police Department responds to each alarm.
Sexual Offense Policy
It is the policy of the university to strive to maintain an environment that is free from intimidation and
inappropriate sexual conduct. In particular, the university will not tolerate any form of sexual offense,
including, but not limited to, acquaintance rape, date rape, sodomy, and sexual offense with an object,
fondling or any other form of non-consensual sexual activity.
A student who individually, or in concert with others, participates or attempts to participate in a sexual
offense, regardless of whether it takes place on or off campus, is subject to disciplinary action,
notwithstanding any action that may or may not be taken by the police.
The university encourages any person who is the victim of a forcible or non-forcible sexual offense to
immediately report the incident to campus authority (university police, V.P.S.S., university Student
Housing Director or Assistant Director and Deans, Directors, Department Heads, except those with
significant counseling responsibilities). Additional resources outside the university are available. There is
no requirement to notify law enforcement authorities of a sexual offense; however, the university
encourages all victims to do so. All University personnel will assist in notifying the university police to
report a sexual offense if asked to do so by the victim. University police should be notified as soon as
possible (the preservation of evidence is crucial in a sexual offense case). Do not bathe, shower, douche
or change clothing. If needed, contact one of the above mentioned resources, or a support person for
assistance. University police will handle all cases that occur on campus. If transportation is needed to
obtain a medical examination, the university police department will arrange for transportation to the
hospital. For the protection of the victim, a pseudonym can be used in the report process.
When a student reports that campus regulation prohibiting a sexual offense have been violated, informal
procedures that provide for the protection of the emotional health and physical safety of the complainant
may be invoked. For example, a student who lives on campus may be moved to another campus living
environment if he or she chooses and if accommodations are reasonably available. Similarly, a
complainant may be allowed to make changes in his or her class schedule. Such arrangements will be
made through the Office of the V.P.S.S. If the complainant provides credible evidence that the accused
student has engaged in prohibited sexual offense, the V.P.S.S. may take interim disciplinary action against
the accused student as appropriate.
A student who wishes to file a complaint that will be addressed by the University disciplinary system
should contact the V.P.S.S. at 432-552-2600. A student may choose to file a complaint with the V.P.S.S.
whether or not the student chooses to press criminal charges. A student who wishes to file a complaint
against a faculty or staff member may contact the V.P.S.S. as well. Procedures for discipline and
dismissal of staff and faculty are outlined in the university Handbook of Operating Procedures.
Notwithstanding, the rights of the accused student, faculty or staff member, a complainant under this
policy is entitled to the following rights:
67
1. The right to present his/her testimony during the disciplinary hearing.
2. The right to have a support person present. This person is not entitled to represent the
complainant not to assist the complainant with his or her testimony. If the support person is to act
as a witness, the hearing officer may require him or her to testify prior to the hearing.
3. The right not to have evidence of his or her past sexual history with third parties admitted as
evidence.
4. The right to have the hearing closed to spectators.
5. The right to know the outcome of the hearing to the extent permitted by federal Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act.
The university counseling Center (432-552-2365) and the Odessa Rape Crisis Center (333-2527) and the
Midland Rape Crisis Center (682-7273) are available to provide support services for anyone affected by
any form of sexual offense. Students who may have been assaulted by someone who is not affiliated with
the university may also contact any of the available university support services.
Below is a list of educational and preventative programs and support services on campus that address the
issue of sexual assault. Brochures and other printed materials are available from each office. Additional
information may be obtained by calling the numbers listed.
STUDENT COUNSELING CENTER 432-552-2365
Individual and group counseling Educational
Programs
UNIVERSITY POLICE 432-552-2787
Crime prevention presentations related to sexual assault
Escort service
Crime statistics information
Copyright Policy
It is the policy of The University of Texas of the Permian Basin to adhere to the requirements of the
United States Copyright Law of 1976, as amended. (Title 17, United States Code, hereinafter, the
"Copyright Act") including ensuring that the restrictions that apply to the reproduction of software are
adhered to and that the bounds of copying permissible under the fair use doctrine are not exceeded.
Accordingly, all faculty, staff and students of The University of Texas of the Permian Basin should
adhere to the following policy guidelines:
Materials Subject to Restrictions
Only copyrighted materials are subject to the restrictions in this Policy Statement. Noncopyrighted
materials may be copied freely and without restriction. Because a copyright notice is not required for
copyright protection of works published on or after March 1, 1989, most works (except those authored by
the United States Government) should be presumed to be copyright protected, unless further information
from the copyright holder or express notice reveals that the copyright holder intends to work to be in the
public domain. With regard to works published prior to March 1, 1989, a copyright notice generally is
required in order for them to be copyright protected.
Copyrighted Software
Copyrighted software may be copied without the copyright owner's permission only in accordance with
the Copyright Act. Section 117 of the Act permits the making of a single archival back-up copy. Most
software, however, is licensed to the user and the terms of the license agreement may give the user
"permission" to make copies of the software in excess of the single archival copy permitted by the
68
Copyright Act. Each software license agreement is unique, and its terms and provisions will vary from
product to product and from company to company. As a result, the extent of the user's rights to copy
licensed software beyond that which is permitted under the Copyright Act cannot be determined without
reference to the user's license agreement with the software copyright owner. It is the policy of The
University of Texas of the Permian Basin that any copying or reproduction of copyrighted software on U.
T. Permian Basin computing equipment must be in accordance with the Copyright Act and the pertinent
software license agreement. Further, faculty, staff and students may not use unauthorized copies of
software on U. T. Permian Basin owned computers or computers housed in U. T. Permian Basin facilities.
"Fair Use"
Copyrighted materials may be copied without the copyright owner's permission where such copying
constitutes "fair use" under the Copyright Act. Section 107 of the Act identified four factors to be
considered in determining whether a use is fair. While this statutory "balancing test" is the ultimate test of
fair use, Congress has endorsed certain Guidelines that provide more concrete guidance to educators as to
the boundaries of permissible copying. These Guidelines are set forth in Appendix I of the Copyright and
The University Community Monograph dated August 1993. Generally, copying is permissible as fair use
to the extent it is permitted by the Guidelines set forth in Appendix I. In some cases, copying not within
the Guidelines of Appendix I nevertheless may constitute fair use; however, before proceeding on that
assumption, the appropriate administrative office of the component institution should request the advice
of the Office of General Counsel.
Permission to Copy
In order to copy materials, including software, where (a) the materials are copyrighted, (b) copying
extends beyond what is permitted by license or the boundaries of the Guidelines in Appendix I (Copyright
and The University Community Monograph dated August 1993), and (c) advice of the Office of General
Counsel has not been sought, permission should be obtained from the copyright owner. The information
in Appendix II may be helpful in obtaining such permission.
Notice of Copyright Policy
The Chief Business Officer is responsible for posting notices reflecting this policy at all photocopying
stations which may be used for reproducing copyrighted materials, e.g., departmental copy rooms and
libraries, and at or near all computer stations that may be used for reproducing copyrighted software. A
suggested form of notice may be found in Appendix III in the Copyright and The University Community
monograph. Photocopy guidelines concerning books and periodicals should appear at all photocopy
machines.
Music Copyright Policy
For educational uses of music, the guidelines set forth in the legislative history of Subsection 107 of the
Copyright Act generally are applicable. (Handbook of Operating Procedures)
File Sharing (Peer-to-Peer)
Introduction
Peer-to-peer (P2P) applications such as Napster, Gnutella, iMesh, Audiogalaxy Satellite, and KaZaA,
make it easy for users to exchange files with each other over the Internet. While these programs are a
69
good way of sharing information, they are not entirely harmless and can cause problems for personal
computer systems as well as for the University network.
This document provides the information users may need to avoid degrading the performance of the
University’s network, to avoid unknowingly sharing personal data, to prevent inadvertently violating
Federal Copyright Law, or to prevent exposing personal computer equipment to malicious code or
unacceptable use when using peer-to-peer applications.
Network Capacity
Most P2P applications will usually be configured so other users can access your hard drive and share your
files all of the time. This constant file transfer can degrade your computer’s performance and generate
heavy traffic loads on the University network, making overall network performance poor. The network is
a shared resource and we all must use it responsibly. Network traffic capacity (referred to as “bandwidth”)
is a limited and expensive resource that we must all consume responsibly.
UTPB network bandwidth consumption is monitored. If your usage could possibly impact the overall
performance of the network, your computer may be blocked until the situation can be discussed and
resolved.
Students living in University housing are limited in the amount of bandwidth they can use. Having P2P
applications running all the time can quickly use up your bandwidth quota.
Before you install any program on your computer, especially a P2P application, read that program’s
documentation and disable, if possible, file-sharing access.
Copyright Issues
File-sharing applications make it easy for you to share music, videos, movies, software, text and other
files. However, unless you have the explicit permission of the copyright owner to possess or distribute the
material, you may be in violation of federal copyright law. It is best to assume that all material is
copyrighted.
Copyright infringement is the act of exercising, without permission or legal authority, one or more of the
exclusive rights granted to the copyright owner under section 106 of the Copyright Act (Title 17 of the
United States Code). These rights include the right to reproduce or distribute a copyrighted work. In the
file-sharing context, downloading substantial parts of a copyrighted work without authority constitutes an
infringement.
Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable
for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or "statutory" damages
affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. A court can, in its discretion,
also assess costs and attorneys' fees. For details see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504 & 505.
Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five
years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense.
For more information, please see the Web site of the U.S. Copyright Office at www.copyright.gov,
especially the FAQs at www.copyright.gov/help/faq.
The University cannot protect you from a copyright complaint. You are not insulated from legal action
because of your status as a student or because you use University network resources. In fact, the
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University may be legally required to assist a complainant in pursuing action against you. The penalties
can range from University sanctions to civil and criminal prosecution. Individual copyright owners and
the entertainment industry are quite active in pursuing legal actions. You are not protected just because
you received material at no cost or are distributing material with no charge. Your only protection is to not
possess or distribute any unlicensed copyrighted material.
Privacy
If you are running a file-sharing application, make sure you know which files and data the program can
access and provide to others. You may be inadvertently sharing personal information such as e-mail
messages and credit card information.
Security
Virus writers are increasingly targeting file-sharing applications. If malicious code infects your computer,
it can spread to millions of computers on the Internet. It is essential that you keep your anti-virus program
up to date and install programs acquired only from reputable sources.
Some file-sharing applications also access your computer to provide a computational or storage resource
for another organization’s personal use. This may not be an acceptable use of state-owned resources such
as the UTPB network.
University Policy and Assistance
In summary, please remember that file-sharing programs are not necessarily harmless and in using them
you may inadvertently consume excessive network bandwidth, violate copyright law, inadvertently share
confidential information or make your computer unsecured. Disproportionate bandwidth usage and
copyright infringement are violations of the University’s rules for acceptable use of information
technology.
Students should be aware that university networks and computers connected to the university networks
are monitored by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and other copyright protection
agencies. If you install peer-to-peer file sharing software on your computer you “open” your computer to
monitoring by these agencies. If the university receives a notice from one of these agencies alleging a
copyright violation associated with your computer, your network connectivity will be limited to local
resources. This limitation will continue until you have discussed the situation with the UTPB Dean of
Students.
Legal Sources of Music & Video
For information related to legal sources of on-line music and videos
visithttp://www.utexas.edu/its/support/topics/music/
Hazing
Hazing in state educational institutions is prohibited by both state law (Sections 51.936 & 37.151 et seq.,
Texas Education Code) and by the Regents' Rules and Regulations (Series 50101, Section 2). Individuals
or organizations engaging in hazing could be subject to fines and charged with criminal offenses.
Additionally, the law does not affect or in any way restrict the right of the University to enforce its own
rules against hazing.
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Individuals
A person commits an offense if the person:
1.
2.
3.
4.
engages in hazing;
solicits, encourages, directs, aids or attempts to aid another engaging in hazing;
recklessly permits hazing to occur; or
has firsthand knowledge of the planning of a specific hazing incident involving a student in an
educational institution, or has firsthand knowledge that a specific hazing incident has occurred,
and knowingly fails to report that knowledge in writing to the dean of students or other
appropriate official of the institution.
Organizations
An organization commits an offense if the organization condones or encourages hazing or if an officer or
any combination of members, pledges, or alumni of the organization commits or assists in the commission
of hazing.
Definition
The term “hazing” is broadly defined by statute to mean any intentional, knowing, or reckless act,
occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others,
directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the
purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in
an organization. Hazing includes, but is not limited to:
a.
any type of physical brutality, such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking,
placing of a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity;
b. any type of physical activity, such as sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in
a small space, calisthenics, or other activity that subject the student to unreasonable risk of harm
or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student;
c. any activity involving the consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug or other
substance that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the
mental or physical health or safety of the student;
d. any activity that intimidates or threatens the student with ostracism, that subjects the student to
extreme mental stress, shame or humiliation, that adversely affects the mental health or dignity of
the student or discourages the student from entering or remaining registered in an educational
institution, or that may reasonably be expected to cause a student to leave the organization or the
institution rather than submit to acts described in this subdivision; and
e. any activity that induces, causes, or requires the student to perform a duty or task that involves a
violation of the Penal Code. The fact that a person consented to or acquiesced in a hazing activity
is not a defense to prosecution.
The University of Texas System Board of Regents’ Rules and Regulations, 50101, Section 2.8 provide
that:
1. Hazing with or without the consent of a student is prohibited by the System, and a violation of
that prohibition renders both the person inflicting the hazing and the person submitting to the
hazing subject to discipline.
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2. Initiations or activities by organizations may include no feature which is dangerous, harmful, or
degrading to the student and a violation of this prohibition renders both the organization and
participating individuals subject to discipline.
Activities which under certain conditions constitute acts that are dangerous, harmful, or degrading, in
violation of Rules include but are not limited to:
calisthenics, such as sit-ups, push-ups, or any other form of physical exercise;
total or partial nudity at any time;
the eating or ingestion of any unwanted substance;
the wearing or carrying of any obscene or physically burdensome
article; paddle swats, including the trading of swats; pushing, shoving,
tackling, or any other physical contact; throwing oil, syrup, flour, or any
harmful substance on a person; rat court, kangaroo court, or other
individual interrogation;
forced consumption of alcoholic beverages either by threats or peer pressure;
lineups intended to demean or intimidate;
transportation and abandonment (road trips, kidnaps, walks, rides, drops);
confining individuals in an area that is uncomfortable or dangerous (hot box effect, high
temperature, too small);
any type of personal servitude that is demeaning or of personal benefit to the individual
members; wearing of embarrassing or uncomfortable clothing;
assigning pranks such as stealing; painting objects; harassing other
organizations; intentionally messing up the house or room for clean up;
demeaning names; yelling and screaming; and requiring boxing matches or
fights for entertainment.
Immunity
In an effort to encourage reporting of hazing incidents, the law grants immunity from civil or criminal
liability to any person who reports a specific hazing event in good faith and without malice to the Dean of
Students or other appropriate official of the institution and immunizes that person for participation in any
judicial proceeding resulting from that report. Additionally, a doctor or other medical practitioner who
treats a student who may have been subjected to hazing may make a good faith report of the suspected
hazing activities to police or other law enforcement officials and is immune from civil or other liability
that might otherwise be imposed or incurred as a result of the report. The penalty for failure to report is a
fine of up to $1,000, up to 180 days in jail, or both. Penalties for other hazing offenses vary according to
the severity of the injury which results and include fines from $500 to $10,000 and/or confinement for up
to two years.
Intellectual Property
Rules for Intellectual Property as established by the Board of Regents, Rule 90101:
2.
Rule and Regulation
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Sec. 1
Purpose. To balance the interests of the many contributors to the substantial creation
of intellectual property at and by U. T. System, the Board of Regents promulgates
these rules on intellectual property with the purpose to (a) provide certainty in
research pursuits and technology-based relationships with third parties; (b) create an
optimal environment for research, development, and commercialization opportunities
with private industry; and (c) encourage the timely and efficient protection and
management of intellectual property.
Sec. 2
Individuals Subject to this Policy. This intellectual property policy applies (a) to all
persons employed by the U. T. System or any of its institutions including, but not
limited to, full and part-time faculty and staff and visiting faculty members and
researchers, and (b) to anyone using the facilities or resources of the U. T. System or
any of its institutions, including, but not limited to, students enrolled at a U. T.
System institution whether undergraduate or master’s and doctoral degrees, and
postdoctoral and predoctoral fellows. All individuals subject to this policy must
assign their rights in intellectual property included under this policy (see Section 3
below) in accordance with the provisions of Rule 90102.
Sec. 3
Intellectual Property Included. Except as set forth in Sections 4 and 5 below and
Rule 90102 of the Regents’ Rules and Regulations, this policy applies to all types of
intellectual property, including, but not limited to, any invention, discovery, creation,
know-how, trade secret, technology, scientific or technological development, research
data, works of authorship, and computer software regardless of whether subject to
protection under patent, trademark, copyright, or other laws.
Sec. 4
Interest in Certain Copyrights. Notwithstanding Section 3 above, the Board of
Regents will not assert its interest in the copyright of scholarly or educational
materials, artworks, musical compositions, and literary works related to the author's
academic or professional field, regardless of the medium of expression. This applies
to works authored by students, professionals, faculty, and non-faculty researchers.
The Board of Regents encourages these creators to manage their copyrights in
accordance with the guidelines concerning management and marketing of copyrighted
works
(http://www.utsystem.edu/ogc/intellectualproperty/COPYMGT.HTM) consistent with
applicable institutional policies.
Sec. 5
Copyright Interest in Certain Software. The Board of Regents asserts ownership in
software; however, copyrights in original software that is content covered by Section
4 above or that is integral to the presentation of such content shall be owned by the
creator in accordance with Section 4 above.
Sec. 6
Works for Hire and Institutional Projects. Notwithstanding the provisions of
Sections 4 and 5 above, the Board of Regents shall have sole ownership of all
intellectual property created by (a) an employee, student, or other individual
commissioned, required, or hired specifically to produce such intellectual property by
the U. T. System or any of its institutions and (b) an employee or student as part of an
institutional project. Except as may be provided otherwise in a written agreement
approved by the institution or U. T. System, the provisions of the Regents’ Rules
and Regulations, Rule 90102, Section 2.5 relating to division of royalties shall not
apply to intellectual property owned solely by the Board of Regents pursuant to this
Section.
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Sec. 7
Role of Creator. Any person subject to this policy who creates intellectual property
(other than a work for hire under Section 6 above or on government or other
sponsored research projects where the grant agreements provide otherwise), may
give reasonable input on commercialization of inventions; provided however, that the
president(s) of the applicable institution(s), or his or her designee(s), in his or her
sole discretion, will make final decisions, including determinations under Section 5
above, whether and how to develop and commercialize an invention.
Sec. 8
Use of Facilities and Resources. Neither the facilities nor the resources of the U. T.
System or any of its institutions may be used (a) to create, develop, or commercialize
intellectual property outside the course and scope of employment of the individual
(see Regents’ Rules and Regulations, Rule 90102, Section 1) or (b) to further develop
or commercialize intellectual properties that have been released to an inventor (see
Regents’ Rules and Regulations, Rule 90102, Sections 2.2 and 2.3) except as the
institution's president may approve where the U. T. System retains an interest under
the terms of the release.
Sec. 9
Use of Research Data. Research data or results created by an employee are owned by
the Board of Regents and, except to the extent that rights to such research data have
not been contractually assigned or licensed to another, the creator shall have a
nonexclusive license to use such data for nonprofit educational, research, and
scholarly purposes within the scope of the employee's employment, subject to
adherence to other provisions of this policy.
Smoke-Free Policy
All facilities of The University of Texas System or any of its institutions are declared to be smoke free;
however, appropriate individual medical exceptions, particularly in clinical treatment situations, will be
considered.
Tobacco sales are prohibited on U. T. System campuses or at University-sponsored events.
(Regents’ Rules and Regulations, Series 8011)
Student Publications Policy
I.
II.
Purpose of Current Publications
A.
The purpose of the student newspaper, The Mesa Journal, is to publish news and
comments of interest and importance to the University community with emphasis on the
news that most directly and immediately concerns students.
B.
The purpose of the student literary publication, The Sandstorm, is to provide an outlet
for creative writing (short stories, poems, articles, art, photography essays, humor).
Approval for New Publications
A.
The petitioner must file, with the Student Senate, a prospectus of the new
publication.
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III.
B.
Subject to approval by the Student Senate, the petitioner must submit a budget
request to the Student Fees Advisory Committee should Student Service Fees
funding be desired.
C.
New publications approved by the Student Senate will be reviewed by the Vice
President for Student Services and be forwarded to the President of the
University. The President has final approval authority.
Protection of Editorial Expression
The student press shall be free of censorship and its editors and writers shall be free to develop their own
editorial policies and news coverage subject to the purpose of the publication listed in section I.
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Academic Advisor: A faculty or trained staff person who assists in planning a student’s academic
program of study.
Academic Probation: Based on grade point average and automatically assigned by the Registrar’s Office
if cumulative GPA falls below 2.0
Administrative Hold: A “hold” placed on your record that does not allow you to register or receive your
grades or transcript.
Alumni: A graduate of UTPB.
ATM: Automated Teller Machine – Located on the first floor lobby of the Mesa Building.
B.A.: Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor’s Degree: Degree earned after completion of required credit hours within a particular field of
study in addition to general requirement courses.
Bookstore: The University Bookstore, located off the courtyard of the Mesa Building, sells textbooks,
greeting cards, a variety of books and magazines, and UTPB memorabilia and clothing. B.S.: Bachelor of
Science.
Classification: Specific designation for degree-seeking lower and upper division students, including:
Freshman = student who has earned less than 30 credit hours; Sophomore = student who has earned
between 30 and 59 hours; Junior = student who has earned between 60 and 89 hours; Senior = student who
has earned over 90 credit hours before graduation; Graduate = student who has earned a graduate degree
and is enrolled in graduate level courses.
Commencement: Graduation Ceremony generally held the Saturday immediately after final exams.
Commuter Student: Student who does not live on campus.
Course Number: The number which identifies what course you are taking.
Dean’s List: An academic honor automatically bestowed upon students each semester they receive a
grade point average of 3.5 and are attending UTPB full time.
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Disciplinary Probation: Disciplinary probation is the greater form of probation indicating that the student
has engaged in unacceptable behavior and may be required to report to the dean on a regular basis during
the probationary period. Further violations will result in consideration of suspension or expulsion. The
dean or hearing officer may impose conditions related to the offense, such as counseling, educational
seminars, or unpaid work assignments. Failure to meet the condition(s) shall be considered an additional
violation.
Double Major: Concurrently fulfilling the requirements of two approved majors.
Drop / Add: To decrease or increase the number of courses for which you have registered. You must
complete the appropriate forms. Check the class schedule for deadlines.
Elective: Depending on your degree plan, elective courses may count towards the total number of hours
required. Contact your advisor for specific details.
Expulsion: Permanent termination from the University of a student’s privilege to attend the University.
FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Aid. (See Financial Aid for more information.)
Falcon: The official mascot of UTPB.
FB: Founders’ Building
Financial Aid: Any loan, part-time employment, grant or scholarship offered to help a student meet the
cost of attaining an education and related expenses.
Financial Aid Award: The amount of aid that is being offered to you for the academic year.
Full-time Student: A full-time student is enrolled for 12 or more credit hours per semester at the
undergraduate level and 9 hours at the graduate level. For Financial Aid purposes, anyone who takes 12 or
more credits (undergraduate) or 9 credit hours (graduate) is considered a full-time student.
GAB :Gymnasium Annex Buildings
General Catalog: Appropriate Catalog
Students may obtain a degree according to the course requirements of the catalog in effect at the time of
admission to the University (so long as the courses required for the degree are still offered by the
University) or of the course requirements of a later catalog in effect during the period of enrollment. This
option shall be available for a six year period dating from the time of the initial admission of the student
to the University. If a student drops out for two or more semesters and returns to U. T. Permian Basin as
a former student, he or she must choose to use the catalog in effect at the time of re-entrance, thereby
beginning a new six year time limit. This regulation applies to degree requirements, but not to operating
regulations, procedures, and fees.
A student who transfers to U. T. Permian Basin from a Texas public community college may select to
graduate according to the degree requirements of the catalog in effect at the time of admission to the
community college or of a catalog in effect during the period of enrollment at the community college or
the catalog in effect when the students entered U. T. Permian Basin. If the student drops out of the
community college for two or more long semesters, the catalog requirements in effect at the time of
readmission to the community college would be the earliest catalog the student could select to follow.
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Whichever catalog a student ultimately chooses applies in its entirety to all degree requirements,
including those applying to the major, minor, and general education requirements, and total hour
and upper level requirements.
Grade Point Average: An unweighted four-point grading system, used to measure academic
performance.
Graduate Assistants (G.A.): Graduate students that are hired to teach courses, research, or to assist in the
teaching of courses. Graduate Assistants may also have other duties and responsibilities, depending on
departmental need.
Graduate Record Exam: (GRE) a standardized test used to measure students’ academic success at the
graduate level.
Grievance Procedures: Procedures by which questions, complaints, or statements of grievance are
addressed. Please consult the “Student Grievance / Appeal Procedure” section of this book.
Harassment: Annoying conduct which creates an intimidating, hostile, offensive working or educational
environment.
Hazing: Any action or situation that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or
safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or admission into an organization. Hazing is illegal in the
State of Texas.
Honors Convocation: A ceremony honoring the outstanding achievement of students, faculty, and staff
at UTPB.
Independent Study: A course where attendance is not taken all the time. If a student wishes to take an
independent study course, he/she is required to take tests, attend periodic classes, complete term papers,
etc.
Internship: An opportunity to gain hand-on experience working in your field of study. Generally for one
semester. Internships can be volunteer or paid positions. Contact Career Services at 552-2633 for more
information.
Intramural Sports: Programs designed to allow everyone to participate in a variety of athletic events,
from highly structured competitive leagues for team sport to unstructured activities.
Job Listings: Career Services maintains a list of full-time and part-time employment, both on and off
campus. Contact them at 552-2633 for more information.
LL: Library Lecture Hall
Loans, Student: A sum of money that is borrowed for educational attainment. These debts must be paid
back.
Local / Permanent Address: Local address is your address while you attend UTPB. Permanent address is
the address where you can always receive mail (like your parents’ house). Sometimes the local and
permanent address is the same.
Major: A student’s primary course of study.
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MB: Mesa Building
Master’s Degree: (M.A., M.S., M.S.W., etc.): Degree earned after a Bachelor’s Degree.
The Mesa Journal: UTPB’s student newspaper. Published every other Thursday during the fall and
spring semesters. During the summer it is published once a month.
MC: Class is held at Midland College
Minor: A secondary course of study that enables students to develop expertise in an additional approved
area of study.
MUSH: Music Building
Non-Degree-Seeking Students: Students who wish to be enrolled in university level courses but do not
plan to earn a degree.
OL: Orientation Leader.
Parking: University Parking Permit. This must hang from the rearview mirror of your car at all times
while on UTPB property. Contact the UTPB Police Department for more information.
Plagiarism: To take ideas or writings from someone else and present them as your own. For details,
please refer to the “Student Conduct and Discipline” section in this book.
Prerequisite: Courses that are needed before you take a specific course.
Provisional: Temporary; conditional.
R: Thursday, as listed in the Schedule of Classes.
Reading Specialist: A trained staff member in place to enhance reading comprehension and reading skills
for UTPB students.
Registration: The process of enrolling in classes at the University.
Residence Assistant (R.A.): A student who has been appointed to live in the residence halls with other
resident students. A Residence Life Assistant helps students with any problems they may have and also
informs the students of the rules and regulations in the residence halls.
Restrictions: Specific conditions imposed on students which would restrict future presence on campus
and participation in university-related events.
The Sandstorm: The Sandstorm, an annual magazine publication, is a collection of poems, short stories,
and essays submitted by students and selected by a panel for publication.
SAR: Student Aid Report (for financial aid).
Course Schedule: List of classes offered each semester; contains important deadline information and is
published each semester.
Stonehenge: A 70% scale reconstruction of the original monument, this work of art is intended to be both
artistic and educational.
University Identification Number: (UID) Number on your Student I.D. card.
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Student Union: Located on the second floor of the Mesa Building, the Student Union is a primary venue
for student activities and programming.
Syllabus: Typed summary of course requirements and assignments handed out in class at the beginning of
each semester.
THEA: Texas Higher Education Assessment.
Teaching Assistants: (T.A.) Students hired to assist a professor.
UTPB Testing Center: The PASS (Programs Assisting Student Study) Office, located in the Courtyard,
provides a variety of services for students in several areas. The PASS Office provides academic support in
the form of academic counseling, study skills, the SUCCESS Program, and the SI program and the tutoring
program.
VA: Visual Arts Building
Withdrawal: The process of dropping one or all courses registered for in a specific semester.
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CAMPUS MAP
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