Student Handbook

This policy ensures that all students who meet their program requirements have the opportunity to celebrate their academic achievements, with diplomas awarded upon the fulfillment of all graduation requirements.

Availability of Academic Records Students may request copies of their transcripts for themselves or for third parties. Requests must be made in writing and students must provide the contact information.

At the request of the President or Dean, term reports and written instructor comments may be made available.

Transcripts from the SUNY College of Optometry will be provided to members of the Course and Standing Committee. The committee, by vote, may request a student’s transcript s from previous institutions attended, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation. The Registrar, or a person designated by the Registrar, shall be responsible for distributing and collecting all documents, and copies thereof, used in the Committee on Course and Standing meetings. All such documents and copies must be returned to the Registrar or designee prior to the end of the meeting. The chair of the Course and Standing Committee at any meeting where student records are reviewed and discussed must inform all present about the necessity to maintain confidentiality of all student records and of the proceedings of the meeting. Student academic records, scores and grades may be used for educational research only as part of de-identified group data. Proposals for educational research involving student records must comply with FERPA regulations and will be evaluated by the Dean for Academic Affairs in consultation with the Vice President for Student Affairs and the President of the Student Council.

Proposals for use of student data for educational research must include: • A statement of the objective of the study. •

The qualifications of the individual or group conducting the study. • A description of the methodology to be employed. • A signed statement assuring confidentiality of all data. • Assurance that data will only be reported as de-identified group data.

Withdrawal Process A student withdrawing from any of the College’s programs for any reason must complete a Student Exit Form in order to receive up-to-date records, avoid fees and charges, and to be eligible for possible refunds. The Student Exit Form is obtained from the Registrar’s Office. The

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