Types of Grievances
Academic grievances concern a course grade. Final grades may be appealed when there is an error in calculating the grade or when grading does not follow the syllabus. Disagreement with an instructor's assessment of student work alone is not grounds for a grievance.
Non-academic grievances concern actions by university employees that adversely affect a student's status, rights, or privileges. Matters covered by other established appeal procedures, such as admissions, disciplinary decisions, financial aid, or housing decisions, are not covered by this process.
Complaints involving discrimination or harassment based on a protected class are referred to the Office of Civil Rights & Title IX.
Getting Started
Graduate students, including master's and doctoral students, follow the same university grievance process.
- Academic grievances: Contact the instructor or faculty member involved to discuss the concern. If the issue remains unresolved, contact the chair of the department offering the course. For a list of MCEC chairs see the MCEC leadership page.
- Non-academic grievances: Contact the university employee involved. If the issue remains unresolved, contact the employee's supervisor.
- Need guidance? Students may consult their graduate program director.
If the concern involves the student's faculty advisor, graduate program director, or another individual whom the student has good reason not to approach directly, the Office of Student Advocacy can help arrange a meeting with the appropriate department chair or supervisor.
Important Information
- Grievances must be initiated within 30 business days of the alleged violation.
- Students must complete the informal resolution process before requesting formal resolution.
- Students should keep relevant emails, documents, and a record of attempts to resolve the concern.
- If informal resolution is unsuccessful, students may request formal resolution under University Policy STAF 6.27.