Research
Policies and Guidelines
This policy establishes standards within this organization, with the exception of the policies and procedures that govern the academic operations. These academic guidelines are the responsibility of the participating institutions collaborating in this program exchange.
Policies and procedures are established to provide direction for community members in carrying out their responsibilities with utmost transparency, efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance with accreditation bodies and government agencies. The designated personnel within the organization are tasked with upholding the official policies and procedures outlined in the manual and on the website, presenting them to the council office. Additionally, the office is responsible for maintaining a comprehensive historical record of all policies and procedures.
It is a fundamental principle for all policies and procedures to outline specific behaviors and actions expected from individuals within the organization. These policies should be readily available for review by staff and students enrolled in the system or program.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a guiding principle in education and a choice to act in a responsible way, whereby others can have trust in us as individuals. It is the foundation for ethical decision-making and behaviour in the production of legitimate, authentic and honest scholarly work. It is an obligation that must be embraced and fostered by the entire school community, so students continue their future life, whether in higher education or in the workplace, in strict adherence to this principle. Fostering an academic integrity culture, and a personal positive attitude towards it, requires the design of a school strategy that combines policies and good academic practice, while understanding the fundamental dimension it has in the authentic construction.
Academic Disqualification
If a student does not pass the thesis/project defense, they are allowed to attempt it again once. Failing a second time will lead to disqualification from the program. The thesis/project committee will outline the timeframe and any additional requirements for the repeat defense. Similarly, a student can retake a comprehensive examination one time. Failing the second comprehensive examination will result in disqualification from the program. The comprehensive exam committee will provide details regarding the timeframe and any conditions for the repeat examination.
Appeals
Graduate students facing Administrative-Academic Probation or Disqualification have 10 business days from the notification date to submit an appeal to the Office of the Registrar. The appeal will be reviewed by a committee consisting of the department Chair. The student will receive a written response with the committee’s decision within 15 business days of the appeal submission.
Reinstatement
If a student is disqualified, whether due to academic or administrative reasons, they may appeal for reinstatement. Reinstatement will only be granted if the student can demonstrate that the issues leading to their poor performance have been resolved and provide strong evidence of their ability to successfully complete their degree. If the student is disqualified for a second time, reinstatement is typically not an option. Students seeking reinstatement must submit a formal petition to the Dean of Graduate Studies, which should include recommendations from their graduate coordinator, department chair, and thesis committee. The final decision on reinstatement rests with the Dean of Graduate Studies. In assessing a student’s request for reinstatement, it is necessary to consider potential external factors that may have contributed to unsatisfactory performance, such as difficulties with a thesis chair. If reinstatement is granted, the Dean of Graduate Studies will provide a letter outlining the necessary conditions and timeline for the student to regain good standing. Attaining good standing is essential for progression to candidacy and eligibility for graduation.