Policies and Procedures

Academic Honesty
Academic Standing Committee
Admissions Requirements
Application Process
Class Administration
Class Cancellation
Class Attendance
Complaints, Grievances, and Appeals
Computer Requirements
Confidentiality Agreement (See Privacy of Information)
Course Delivery
Credit Transfer and Recognition
Curriculum Committee
Dropping a Class (see Withdrawal and Refunds)
Dropping a Program (see Withdrawal and Refunds)
Electronic Communication
Ethical Standards
Financial Assistance
Grading
Graduation
Graduation Ceremony
Honour Code (See Academic Honesty)
Information Resources
Intellectual Property
International Students
Non-Discrimination Policy
Plagiarism
Prerequisites
Privacy of Information
Registration and Class Enrollment
Research
Residency Requirement
Responsibility for Knowledge
Responsibility for Reading Materials
Satisfactory Progress
Student Associations
Student Behavior in Class
Student Conduct
Students with Special Needs
Transcripts
Truth in Advertising and Recruitment
Withdrawal and Refunds

Academic Honesty

The reputation and success of an educational institution, including its students, graduates, and faculty, depend upon the honesty and integrity of all the members of the School community. Therefore, the responsibility for maintenance of both the appearance and substance of academic honesty and integrity must be borne by all students, staff, and faculty.

Academic honesty requires the submission of one’s own work for credit or evaluation. It precludes cheating on an examination of any type; offering, giving, soliciting or accepting information about an examination; and soliciting or hiring another to provide one’s own work or answers in an assignment or examination.

It is assumed that written work offered by a student for evaluation and credit is the student’s own. Failure to acknowledge indebtedness to another’s ideas or written work will be considered to be plagiarism.

Students are expected to avoid collusion by refraining from collaborating with another person or persons in the preparation of case notes, presentations, reports, journals, or portfolios unless the collaboration has been approved in advance by the instructor.

The use of false or misleading information or statements to gain admission to Adler Graduate Professional School, or to seek employment, practicum assignment, or postsecondary admission elsewhere by a student or former student at Adler Graduate Professional School, constitutes credential misrepresentation.

Instances of suspected academic dishonesty, plagiarism, collusion, or misrepresentation of credentials will be reported to the Dean or Director of the Program in which the student is enrolled. The Dean or Director will follow procedures outlined in the Complaints, Grievances, and Appeals section.
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• Honour Code

All members of the Adler Community are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and ethics in all that they do. In order to give effect to the Academic Honesty policy above, students are required to abide by the following code. By signing the Registration Agreement at the beginning of each academic year, students agree to abide by this code, with a penalty for violation up to and including dismissal from the Program.

As a student at Adler Graduate Professional School, I pledge to hold myself to the highest standards of the profession I hope to enter. I will ensure, to the best of my ability, that any work I submit as my own is indeed my own, and I will make every effort to acknowledge the words or ideas of others that I cite in my written or spoken presentations. I will endeavour to encourage the highest principles of ethics and honesty among my colleagues in and outside the School. I will show respect to other students, to faculty members and other professionals, to staff, and to clients or patients. I will behave in a manner that will bring honour to myself, to my colleagues, to my teachers and mentors, to the School, and to my chosen profession.

Academic Standing Committee

The Dean or Director of each Program at AGPS will appoint an Academic Standing Committee consisting of a Chair who is a Core Faculty member and at least two other Core or Adjunct faculty members. The Committee will consider matters referred to it concerning satisfactory progress, class attendance, credit transfers and waivers, dropping classes, class and program dismissal, transfers from other programs, and standards for successful completion, and other matters with respect to student performance or conduct.
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Admissions Requirements

Requirements for admission are different for each AGPS Program.  Consult specific Programs for details.
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Application Process

The Application Process is different for each AGPS Program.  Consult specific Programs for details.
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Class Administration

Class outlines are made available prior to the first day of classes through AdLearn Online, the School’s e-collaboration system. The outlines include competencies, evaluation methods, readings, and a session-by-session description of course content.
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Class Cancellation

Classes may be cancelled for reasons of weather, instructor illness, or other extenuating circumstances. AGPS reserves the right to cancel classes that do not meet minimum enrollment requirements. Every effort will be made to inform students of cancellations, alternate arrangements will be made where possible, and students will not be penalized when cancellations are beyond their control.
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Class Attendance

For every class meeting, instructors will complete an attendance sheet that will be submitted to the Registrar, along with the grade sheet, at the completion of the class. Timely and regular attendance at all class meetings, whether in person, on-line, or by telephone bridge or other distance technology, is a requirement for every student. Only under exceptional circumstances may a student miss required class sessions and still be granted the option of completing class requirements.

Those circumstances include but are not limited to:

• Illness
• A pressing family matter, such as a death in the family.

Social engagements or a heavy course load do not count as “pressing” matters.  Circumstances must be supported by written confirmation by a doctor, and/or someone outside of the immediate family who can attest to the seriousness of a family crisis or other critical circumstance. The student must submit the request in writing to the instructor before the absence or delay, or as soon thereafter as possible. The instructor accepts or rejects the request at her or his discretion. Even with documentation, if the instructor does not believe that a student can complete the course requirements under such circumstances, the instructor has the right to recommend dismissal from the class to the Program Dean or Director.

Missing a period or periods of instruction can seriously jeopardize a student’s ability to successfully complete a course, and full attendance is not considered optional. If the request is rejected, the student will receive whatever grade is appropriate for the amount of work completed in the class. If the request is accepted, the instructor will report to the Registrar a grade of “I” or Incomplete (See Grading), along with a copy of the request and documentation, what must be done to complete the class, and the date by which the completion is due. When the work is completed, the instructor will submit a grade that replaces the incomplete. An incomplete will revert to an “F” or failing grade if it is not removed by the end of the trimester following that in which the student was originally registered for the class.

Promptness for class sessions is also an expectation. For students who are repeatedly late, the instructor has the right to recommend dismissal from the class to the Program Dean or Director. In the case of chronic tardiness, the Program Dean or Director may refer the student to the Program’s Academic Standing Committee.
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Complaints, Grievances, and Appeals

All students and faculty of Adler School of Professional Studies Inc. degree, diploma, and certificate Programs (including Adler Graduate Professional School and Adler International Learning Inc.) and all employees of Adler School of Professional Studies Inc. and its Programs are entitled to the rights of citizenship. Those rights are formulated by a set of procedures designed to deal with complaints, grievances and appeals that cannot be resolved through administrative and academic channels. The natural justice principle of the “presumption of innocence until proven guilty” shall underlie all policies and procedures with respect to complaints, grievances and appeals. Due processes have been set up as described below.

Initial Resolution Process

In all cases, attempts will be made to resolve issues fairly and respectfully at an informal level.  Only then should a complaint or grievance be filed; and, even then, there should be an ongoing effort to achieve a mutually agreeable informal resolution.

For students or faculty members, complaints or grievances should be addressed to the Dean or Director of the Program in which the student is enrolled or the faculty member teaches. Employee complaints or grievances should be addressed to the complainant’s direct supervisor. If the complaint or grievance involves the Program Dean, Director, or s supervisor, the complainant may report his or her concern directly to the Academic Vice-President in the case of students or academic personnel or the Chief Executive Officer in the case of employees or other administrative staff.

Each complaint or grievance should include the following, in writing:

1.               Rationale for the complaint or grievance,

2.               Evidence that there has been an attempt to work the grievance or complaint through with the parties involved, and

3.               A clear statement of the hoped-for outcome.

The Dean, Director, supervisor, Academic Vice-President or Chief Executive Officer will examine the request to ensure that informal measures have been taken to work through the grievance or complaint. This may involve interviewing the parties involved to encourage a resolution at the informal level. If no resolution is forthcoming and the Dean, Director, supervisor, Academic Vice-President, or Chief Executive Officer determines that the complaint or grievance has merit, he or she will forward the complaint to the President of Adler Graduate Professional School, along with a request to convene a Committee of Inquiry to deal with the complaint or grievance.

The Dean, Director, supervisor, or Academic Vice-President, or Chief Executive Officer shall be required to make and issue in writing a determination according to the above policies no later than 15 business days from the date of receipt of the written complaint or grievance.

Note to students: The following instances are not typically included in a grievance procedure:

• Dissatisfaction with a School Policy or Procedure or its general application on the grounds that it is generally unfair or inappropriate. In the case of such dissatisfaction, students, faculty, employees, and other stakeholders are represented on various governance committees through which their input into School Policy and Procedures is welcome.
• Purely personal conflicts with Adler Graduate Professional School faculty or other employees.
• Complaints regarding Program requirements or grades except where they have been applied or determined contrary to stated policy.

All students are invited to speak informally with their Program Dean or Director or with the Dean of Students or Academic Vice-President to discuss any dissatisfaction and to see if a resolution can be achieved.

Appeals

All decisions made by anyone authorized within these policies are appealable to the next higher authority.  In all cases the final authority within the internal process is the President.

In the case of students who wish to appeal a decision of their Program Dean or Director regarding a matter that has been considered by their Program Academic Standing Committee or by the Research Review Committee, the appeal must be presented in writing to the Academic Vice-President within 60 days from the date of the decision under appeal, and should include the following:

1.     Rationale for the appeal including reasons for dissatisfaction with any decisions,

2.     Evidence that there has been an attempt to work the decision through with the parties involved, and

3.     A clear statement of the hoped-for outcome.

The Academic Vice-President will consider the appeal, including conducting informal interviews with any of the parties in an attempt to arrive at a mutually satisfactory resolution. If the Academic Vice-President determines there is merit to the appeal and that no resolution is forthcoming, he or she will request that the President appoint a Committee of Inquiry in accord with the following principles:

1.     All students at Adler Graduate Professional School are subject to the Academic Honesty, Honour Code, and Student Conduct policies listed in the current Academic Calendar (www.adler.ca), to the ethical code or codes of the profession(s) they intend to enter, and to ethical and legal guidelines that apply to academic and professional activities.

2.     Faculty of every rank in any Program associated with Adler Graduate Professional School are subject to relevant policies in the current Academic Calendar and Faculty Handbook, to the ethical code or codes of their profession(s), and to ethical and legal guidelines that apply to academic and professional activities.

3.     All staff, whatever their position, are subject to relevant policies from the current Academic Calendar and Employee Handbook and to ethical and legal guidelines that apply to the conduct of business in an academic setting.

Anyone who has questions regarding the content or application of ethical guidelines is urged to consult with the Dean of Students in the case of number 1 above, with the Dean or Director of the relevant Program in the case of number 2, or with the Chief Executive Officer in the case of 3. If the question concerns the Dean, Director, or CEO, or if the inquiry originates from outside the Adler Graduate Professional School community, it may be addressed to the President. The inquiry will be investigated informally utilizing the resources of the School. If there is no clear resolution, the President may appoint a Committee of Inquiry according to the procedures below, but without allegation of violation or wrongdoing of any kind. The Committee of Inquiry in this case will be expressly charged to investigate the particulars of the inquiry and, if it is deemed necessary, arrive at a policy to be recommended to the President and Board of Directors or Academic Council.

Anyone who suspects or alleges an ethical violation on the part of a student or faculty member should report the matter to the Dean of Students in the case of a student, or the Dean or Director of the Program in which the faculty member teaches. Alleged ethical violations on the part of any staff member should be reported to the staff member’s direct supervisor. If the alleged violation involves a Dean, Director, or supervisor, the student or faculty member may report their concern to the Academic Vice-President or Chief Executive Officer. The Dean, Director, supervisor, Academic Vice-President, or Chief Executive Officer will gather information and take a course of action including but not limited to one of the following:

• No need to act—the allegation has no basis in fact.
• Take informal corrective measures.
• Refer the matter to the President requesting a Committee of Inquiry according to the procedures below.

Every reasonable measure will be taken to ensure that the allegations are examined in a fair and reasonable manner, following principles of natural justice. If anyone who reports or is accused of an ethical violation feels that these principles have not been followed, they are free to exercise their full rights of citizenship by lodging a complaint or grievance according to the Student, Faculty, and Staff Complaints or Grievances section, requesting that anyone involved in the former resolution process be recused from participation in the complaints or grievance process.

Committee of Inquiry

Upon determining that initial resolution of a complaint, grievance, or appeal is not forthcoming, or upon receiving a request from a Dean, Director, supervisor, or President’s designee to convene a Committee of Inquiry, the President will appoint three persons to sit on the Committee.

The membership of the Committee is dependent on the status of the parties involved as follows:

• When an alleged incident involves at least one student, the Committee of Inquiry (herein referred to as The Committee) will consist of one student, one faculty member, and one administrator.
• In circumstances other than those listed above, the President will appoint a three-person Committee appropriate to the parties involved.

The Committee hears the grievance or complaint put forth by the complainant as well as a response from the respondent and witnesses identified by each party. The Committee will examine all evidence it deems necessary. The rights of all parties will be observed, and privacy and confidentiality will be protected to the fullest extent possible. The Committee shall conduct as much of its business as is practical through written correspondence, but meetings with the individuals mentioned above will also take place.

The Committee either rejects or, following any appropriate investigation, gives detailed consideration to the grievance, complaint, or change. If necessary, the Committee will hold a hearing, determine the facts of the case, and seek a settlement of the matter that is satisfactory to the concerned parties.

Both the complaining party and respondent have a right to present information. At any hearing called by the Committee, neither party may be represented by an attorney, nor shall any taping or stenographic record be made. No person is allowed to record any portion of the hearing.  However, both parties may request representation in Committee of Inquiry hearings by an advocate who knows the party to be represented and is familiar with the incident under inquiry.  This advocate must be other than a legal professional and someone at the same organizational level as the complainant or respondent (that is, a fellow student if the party is a student, a fellow faculty member if the party is a faculty member, a fellow staff member if the party is on staff, etc.)The Committee shall have the right to seek legal counsel for advice, as do the complainant and respondent.

In the absence of extenuating circumstances, the Committee of Inquiry shall meet within 15 working days of its appointment. If, in the opinion of the Committee, a settlement is either impossible or inappropriate, the Committee, at the conclusion of its process, issues its recommendations to the parties, and both its report and recommendations to the President.

As a final internal review, the President will consult with two representatives of the Advisory Council who are not involved in the dispute in any way before issuing a final decision about whether to accept the recommendation of the Committee of Inquiry. This process will be completed expeditiously and in no case will take more than 60 days from the date of the appointment of the Committee of Inquiry.

The final internal review of any Committee of Inquiry recommendations must be conducted by parties who are not involved in the dispute in any way.

A complaint or grievance may result in

• A finding that no action is warranted.
• Resolution by mutual consent of the parties involved.
• Recommendation to the President of reprimand or other disciplinary measures, which may include, but are not limited to, termination of employment or dismissal from the School.

After consultation with the representatives of the Advisory Council, the action of the President in response to a recommendation by a Committee of Inquiry shall be final. However the complainant may present his or her grievance to the Human Rights Commission of Canada.

Permanent files of the Committee shall be maintained indefinitely by the President of Adler Graduate Professional School, and shall be available only to those specifically authorized by her or him.

Consensual and Inappropriate Dual Relationships

Consenting romantic/sexual relationships or other inappropriate dual relationships, including those between faculty and student and student and client, are viewed as unacceptable by Adler Graduate Professional School and are forbidden by codes of ethics in most professional associations. In some cases, such as for psychologists and other Ontario health professionals, such relationships may be in violation of established law. Conflicts of interest arise when an individual who is in a position of trust or authority engages in an inappropriate dual relationship with a subordinate. This may include, but is not limited to, dual relationships between a faculty or staff member and a student; between a supervisor and an employee; or between a practicum student and his or her client or patient.  Pre-existing relationships may or may not be appropriate depending on relevant ethical and/or legal standards. Although such a relationship may be or may at one time have been consensual, that fact alone may not keep it from triggering a subsequent charge of sexual harassment. Courts have stated that “common sense, reason, and good judgment should alert a professor that consensual sexual relationships between professors and students could be cause for termination.” Faculty must maintain a proper role in relating to students.

The policies of Adler Graduate Professional School preclude individuals from evaluating the work or academic performance of others with whom they have a dual or prior relationship that would compromise their objectivity. This principle is at the base of determining whether a dual relationship is inappropriate. The policies preclude such individuals from making hiring, salary, or similar financial decisions concerning such persons. The same principles apply to consensual romantic and/or sexual relationships and require, at a minimum, that appropriate arrangements be made for objective decision-making with an immediate supervisor. The supervisor shall have the responsibility for making arrangements to eliminate or mitigate a conflict whose consequences might prove detrimental to Adler Graduate Professional School or to either party in the relationship.  Students, faculty, and staff will be urged to consult with the appropriate Dean, Director, or supervisor if they have any questions about the appropriateness of a relationship or the way in which they engage in it.

Unique relationships often exist between the students, employees, and other persons associated with the School. Faculty, staff, or administrators at the School shall not:

1.     Exploit, sexually or otherwise, relationships with Adler Graduate Professional School students, supervisees, research participants, clients, employees, or other persons over whom they have instructional, supervisory, evaluative, or other authority.

2.     Engage in a therapeutic relationship, or accept monetary or non-monetary remuneration from Adler Graduate Professional School students, clients, employees, or other persons associated with the School for psychological services, clinical supervision or other professional services.

3.     Engage in a social, financial, personal or other such non-professional or professional relationship with persons such as Adler Graduate Professional School students, clients, supervisees, or employees where such a relationship may impair objectivity, create harm, or exploit the other party.

4.     Knowingly participate in or condone decisions or activities that favour or advance one person’s interest at the expense of others where a conflict of interest may exist.

5.     Have an amorous relationship (consensual or otherwise) with a student who is enrolled in his/her course, or whose academic or clinical work is being supervised by him or her.

6.     Where a conflict of interest is suspected, or may exist, any individual associated with the School is expected to inform the appropriate Dean, Director, supervisor, Vice-President, or manager,  who will proceed according to the Complaints and Grievances policies above.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is a key concern for any school, and it is the legal responsibility of the Adler School of Professional Studies, Inc., operating as Adler Graduate Professional School,  to provide an environment where no student, client, administrator, faculty member, employee or other person associated with the School shall be subject to sexual harassment, or a sexually harassing environment; or be subject to restraint, interference, coercion or reprisal for action taken in good faith, for seeking advice concerning a sexual harassment matter, for filing a sexual harassment complaint, or for serving as a witness or panel member in the investigation of a sexual harassment complaint.

All persons affected by a particular incident will be treated with respect and given full opportunity to be heard. The Complaints and Grievance procedures outlined above may be utilized to respond to concerns with and/or charges of sexual harassment.

School Responsibility

It is the responsibility of any Program affiliated with Adler Graduate Professional School, and of the administrative and academic staff, to maintain an environment free from sexual harassment. The School has an obligation to investigate any allegation according to the Complaints and Grievances policies above.

Complainant Protection and Responsibility

No reprisal of any kind will be taken by any administrator, faculty member, representative or employee of the School against any person bringing a Complaint, Grievance, or Appeal under the procedures above.

A complainant found to have been intentionally dishonest in making allegations, or to have made them maliciously, is subject to disciplinary measures including, but not limited to, reprimand, probation, suspension, or dismissal from the School.
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Computer Requirements

Although students may use student computers located in the lounge for convenience, every student will be expected to have her or his own regular access to a computer with USB ports, a printer, and Internet capabilities.
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Confidentiality Agreement (See Privacy of Information)

Course Delivery

Courses required for all Programs occur during the Fall (September to December), Winter (January to April), or Summer (May to August) trimesters.  Each Program, however, will have its own scheduling plan, credit requirements, and delivery modalities (such as face-to-face delivery in classrooms, synchronous or asynchronous communication utilizing AdLearn Online, teleclass discussions utilizing a telephone bridge line, or by other technology-based delivery methods, depending on faculty judgment of the most effective means for delivering course material).  Consult specific Programs for details.
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Credit Transfer and Recognition by Other Institutions

AGPS and the faculty of each of its programs make every effort to ensure that the various curricula and courses are current and in keeping with the highest standards of scholarship and pedagogy. However, students should be aware that the recognition of individual courses, certificates, diplomas, or their degree by other post-secondary institutions will depend entirely on the policies of those institutions.  At the time of registration, students will receive written notification of any credit transfer arrangements AGPS has made with other institutions, which will include information about such arrangements and contact information with respect to receiving organizations. If a student intends to apply to other institutions in the hope that AGPS courses or degree will be accepted, she or he is advised to check in advance whether this will be the case.

All students are encouraged to maintain files of Academic Calendars, course outlines, reading packets, practicum documents, grade sheets, and papers, exams and other materials submitted to the faculty or School to support any future application for credit transfer recognition or to verify work/courses/training  completed.
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Curriculum Committee

A Curriculum Committee is appointed by the Dean or Director of each degree, diploma, or certificate offering at the beginning of each academic year. The Chair of the Committee is a Core Faculty or ex-officio Core Faculty member of the program in which the degree, diploma or certificate is administratively housed (e.g., professional psychology program).  The Committee consists of the Chair, at least one other Core or Adjunct Faculty member, at least one student currently enrolled in the degree, diploma, or certificate offering, and at least on other member who may be a graduate of the offering or another professional familiar with the field. The Curriculum Committee will meet at least quarterly to assist in curriculum development, modification and maintenance and to respond to questions or concerns referred to it by the Program Dean or Director of other Committees.  A report from each offering’s Curriculum Committee is submitted to the Academic Council and included in the portion of the Annual Review and Self-Study provided by the Council.

The student and graduate Curriculum Committee members will be chosen by the student and graduate association, respectively, according to procedures determined by each association and subject to approval by the Curriculum Committee Chair.
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Dropping a Class (see Withdrawal and Refunds)

Dropping a Program (see Withdrawal and Refunds)

Electronic Communication

Access to library resources on the Internet and to AdLearn, AGPS’s online collaboration system, will be made available to students enrolled in all Programs. Before beginning their first class, all students will be required to have Internet access, word processing and printing capability, and a telephone at home or wherever they choose to complete their schoolwork.

AGPS Intranet and Internet resources are intended to enable staff, faculty, and students to communicate only in order to further educational and professional purposes. Any unlawful or unethical use of the School computer, audio-visual equipment, or other electronic resources will result in consequences up to and including dismissal and/or referral to a law enforcement agency.
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Ethical Standards

Appropriate participation in clinical or helping service activities requires strict adherence to Codes of Ethics as set out by relevant certifying or professional bodies in the Province of Ontario or elsewhere. Students are expected to refrain from engaging in clinical or human service activities that are deemed unethical or unlawful under Ontario law or that contravene the ethical, clinical and practice guidelines of licensing and regulatory professional bodies. Students may not engage in clinical or helping service activities for which they are considered to be unprepared. Any clinical or helping service activities outside of practicum experiences must be reported to the Director of Clinical training for the Program in which the student is enrolled or the Practicum Director.  See also Research.
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Financial Assistance

Adler Graduate Professional School encourages students to apply for scholarships offered by private foundations and associations and will provide documentation and support necessary for such applications. The Adler Graduate Professional School Financial Department can recommend a loan program that may be suitable for students who qualify.  Many banks and credit unions have very competitive student loan programs or student lines-of-credit. Interested students are encouraged to contact their local banks or credit unions to discuss this option.
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Grading*

Grades are assigned as letter grades and not as percentages.  An instructor has the right to assign a final grade based on written work, as well as participation, maintaining a cooperative and scholarly attitude, and other skills or competencies deemed important by the faculty. The basis for assigning a grade in each class is provided in a class outline made available at the beginning of the class. Following are letter grade equivalencies to grade point averages (on a four-point scale), percentages, and descriptions:

Letter grade	Grade points	percentages	description
A+	4.0	90-100	Exceptional	Exceeds expectations for performance and knowledge
A	4.0	85-89	Superior
A-	3.67	80-84	Excellent
B+	3.33	77-79	Above average	Meets expectations for performance and knowledge; fulfills competency standards
B	3.00	74-76	Good
B-	2.67	70-73	Satisfactory
C+	2.33	67-69	Acceptable	Barely competent performance or knowledge
C	2.00	64-66	Marginal
C-	1.67	60-64	Below average
D +	1.33	57-59	Inadequate	Inadequate performance, knowledge, or both
D	1.00	50-56	Insufficient
F	0	0-49	Failing	Incompetent performance; insufficient knowledge; failure to meet course requirements

*Note: Adler Graduate Professional School is committed to curbing grade inflation. Grades of “B” or higher at the graduate level indicates that the student’s performance meets expectations for someone who has been granted admission to a master’s program.

Additional grades

E         Continuous Enrolment: Students who have been approved by their Program Dean for a Leave of Absence and who pay a Continuous Enrollment fee (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees), will have an “E” entered on their transcripts for every trimester they do not sign up for classes. Any student who fails to sign up for classes for two trimesters without an official Leave of Absence and payment of Continuous Enrollment fees will be dismissed from the Program. That student must re-apply and be admitted under policies, procedures, and requirements current at the time of the new admission in order to continue in the Program.

I           Incomplete: Students who are absent from class or unable to complete requirements due to serious illness, a family emergency or other approved critical circumstance may request makeup work or an extension (See Class Attendance). If the request is accepted, the instructor will report to the Registrar a grade of “I” or Incomplete, along with a copy of the request and documentation, what must be done to complete the class, and the date by which the completion is due. When the work is completed, the instructor will submit a grade that replaces the incomplete. An incomplete will revert to an “F” or failing grade if it is not removed by the end of the trimester following that in which the student was originally registered for the class.

IP         In Progress: Certain classes, such as the Clinical Master’s Project or practica, may of necessity extend beyond the end of the trimester in which they were scheduled. In these instances, the instructor will submit a grade of “IP” or In Progress. Approval of the Program Dean is required for an IP grade to extend beyond two trimesters following that in which the class began.

P or N    Pass or No Pass: Some classes, such as experiential seminars or practica, are designated as “pass-no pass” by Program faculty. In these cases, students are assigned a grade of “P” for Pass or “N” to indicate they did not meet the standards necessary to pass. Students who drop a class without following procedures will receive an “N” on their transcripts for that class. “P” or “N” grades are not calculated in a student’s grade point average, but any “N” classes must be repeated and the original “N” grade will remain on the student’s transcript. No more than three “N” grades are allowed, and students may repeat classes for which they received an “N” grade no more than twice.

W         Withdrawal (Dropping a Class): Dropping a class according to the procedures outlined in the Dropping a Class policy will result in the notation “W” next to the class listing on the student’s transcript. Dropping two or more classes over three consecutive trimesters may result in referral to the Academic Standing Committee. Students are advised to consult with their Faculty Mentor/Advisor or Program Dean if they find that they regularly sign up for more courses than they are able to successfully complete.

X          Program Dismissal: The grade of “X” indicates that a student has been dismissed from a class as a result of a decision by the Program Dean, in the case of failure to comply with School policy as outlined in the Academic Calendar and other School documents, after a recommendation of dismissal by the Academic Standing Committee, as a result of actions taken under the Complaints, Grievances and Appeals process, or other disciplinary action.

Please note that students may not typically grieve grades. Instructors are not required to re-read papers, and may not do so with the intent of re-assigning a grade after the final grades for the course have been submitted to the Registrar. However, if a student feels that an instructor is unjustly biased in her or his treatment of a student for other than academic performance, or that academic policies have not been applied as outlined in this Calendar, the student may begin a grievance procedure (see Complaints, Grievances, and Appeals).

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Graduation

Successful degree, certificate, or diploma candidates may consider themselves as graduates upon receipt of a letter from the Registrar stating that all requirements have been met, that the Faculty has recommended conferral of the degree, certificate, or diploma, and that the Program Dean or Director has accepted that recommendation.

In order to meet the requirements for graduation, students must have successfully completed all requirements for the Program in which they were enrolled, their faculty must recommend their graduation to the Program Dean or Director, and the Dean or Director must accept that recommendation.
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Graduation Ceremony

Each year, each Program at AGPS, in conjunction with the Program’s Student Association, hosts a graduation ceremony.

For Master of Psychology (M.Psy) graduates, the graduation ceremony is held once per year for students who have been granted their degree during the previous school year. To graduate in time for the November ceremony, all degree requirements must be completed by the last day of the final trimester of the previous school year.

Other programs set graduation ceremonies and distribution of diplomas or certificates according to program schedules.  Consult specific Programs for details.
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Honour Code (See Academic Honesty)

Information Resources

For each trimester in which they are registered for courses, students will be assessed a Learning Resources fee that gives them access to AdLearn Online, the AGPS Library Services, Student Computers, and a Learning Coach.

• AdLearn Online

Upon enrollment, students are assigned an account so they may access the Adler Learning Network Online Collaboration System—AdLearn Online. Announcements, news and schedule information are made available on AdLearn. Students will be assigned to a conference for each class in which they are enrolled, and class outlines, assignments, and reading resources will be available there. Every student will also be assigned an AdLearn e-mail address and will be supplied with the instructions for implementing the School’s AdLearn Online collaboration system. Important School, course and classroom information may be conveyed only by e-mail, so regular check-ins should be a part of every student’s routine. A Help Desk procedure is available to support students regarding their use of computers and AdLearn. Students, staff, and faculty have e-mail addresses on AdLearn to facilitate communication and the development of a community of learners. All students are expected to utilize their AdLearn e-mail account in order to communicate with faculty, administration, and other students about School matters. AdLearn also provides course and class information to supplement face-to-face learning. Students are responsible for checking their AdLearn accounts regularly, and information posted there is considered to have been delivered to the student.

• Library Services
  

The existence of the vast resources of the Internet and resultant collaboration among libraries of the world has changed the way that academic research is conducted. Instead of searching through stacks of books and journals in the inner bowels of huge buildings, scholars sit at their own computers and search the equivalent of thousands of libraries with seemingly infinite content. In response to the current information needs of students, AGPS has designed a network of library services that takes advantage of the potential of online searches, enables downloadable and portable audiovisual options, and also recognizes the value of browsing hard copies of books and journals.

o   On-Line Access

All AGPS degree, diploma, and certificate students will have access to PsychLit and other information tools through arrangement with EBSCO online information services. Students will receive information about how to gain access to these resources upon enrollment.

o   Visiting Scholar Status (Available to Degree Students Only)

AGPS degree students will be provided with a research scholar membership in the University of Toronto library system. This membership provides access to stacks in all University of Toronto libraries.

o   Toronto Reference Library

Located just one block from the AGPS main campus, the Reference Library for the City of Toronto provides expert consultation and assistance in locating books, periodicals, or other information of particular interest to students. All AGPS degree, diploma, and certificate students will be issued Toronto Library Cards so that they may utilize the resources available in the Reference and other libraries.

o   AGPS Browsing Library

Students and faculty who research and read course materials sitting in front of their computers miss out on the experience of browsing through stacks of books and journals and discovering something they did not know to search for. AGPS has arranged to provide this experience by arranging shelves of books along the walls of classrooms and lounge areas. Students, faculty, and staff are asked to bring at least one book relevant to the studies they are pursuing that they have finished reading in order to take a book from the Browsing Library that they wish to read. In making this exchange, each student is asked to follow these steps:

1. Complete a card with the author of the incoming book (last name, first name), title, date, and publisher city and name. Place this card in the Browsing Library card file alphabetically by last name of the author.

2. Place the incoming book on the appropriate Browsing Library shelf, arranged according to subject, then alphabetically by author and then title.

3. Select an outgoing book in exchange.

4, Take the outgoing book card from the card catalogue box and place it into the outgoing file.

Students are welcome to read books on AGPS premises without making an exchange. They are requested to replace any book they remove from a shelf in its proper place.

o   Reference & Reserve Books

Reference and reserve materials include books or journals assigned by instructors for classes and rare or repeated-use resources. These are kept in AGPS administrative offices and may be used only on School premises or when students wish to photocopy material using the School photocopier. Required and most recommended course materials are placed on reserve one month prior to the start of the class. These books are available only by request from the front desk staff. A list of all materials on reserve is posted on the student bulletin board.

o   Audio-Visual Archives

Over the nearly 30-year history of Adler Schools in Ontario, an extensive audio-visual collection on Adlerian, general counselling and psychotherapy, psychology, and coaching theory and practice has been collected. This includes a number of original video and audio recordings produced by AGPS. Students may review these resources at the School’s main campus. For a small fee, they may request that the materials be transferred to a form so they may listen to or view them on portable electronic devices.

o   External Resources

In the past, Adler students have found it convenient to use libraries at York University or other university or public libraries geographically convenient to them. The Canadian Association of Mental Health, the Centre for Addictions and Mental Health, and related organizations also have library facilities that have proven useful for student research. In addition, AGPS collaborates with other libraries internationally, such as the extensive psychotherapy holdings of the Professional School of Psychology, to ensure the availability of relevant materials for student research.

Student Computers

A secure wireless network enables Internet access on AGPS premises for students who bring laptops to class. In addition, several computers designated for student use are located in the lounge area. Using their username and secure password, students may access library databases and the AdLearn Online e-mail and collaboration system from these computers.

Learning Coach (Available to Degree students only)

Each incoming M.Psy degree student will be assigned a Learning Coach to assist him or her in clarifying goals, identifying options for maximizing learning experiences, and balancing academic and personal demands. Three one-on-one sessions with Adler Trained Coaches will be made available each trimester to students whose Information Resources fees are current.

Note: Coaches are not academic advisors or counsellors, nor are they necessarily experts in the field of study chosen by the student. They are trained to refer students to these experts as appropriate.
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Intellectual Property

Adler Graduate Professional School makes every effort to adhere to the letter and the spirit of copyright and other laws regarding intellectual property and requires all students, faculty, and staff to do the same. Class handouts and notes distributed by instructors are presumed to be the intellectual property of the instructors, except where otherwise noted. School documents, including the Academic Calendar, course descriptions, class outlines, and procedures for online or teleclass learning are the intellectual property of Adler School of Professional Studies Inc. Duplication other than for educational purposes is prohibited without consent of the copyright holder.

Intellectual products resulting from research or other scholarly activity by Adler Graduate Professional School students and faculty remain the property of the student or faculty member who has engaged in that activity, except where a prior written agreement indicates otherwise.  Any funds granted by Adler Graduate Professional School or related entities to students or faculty for research or other such activities must be accompanied by a clear statement of ownership of any resulting intellectual property.
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International Students

AGPS encourages foreign-trained aspiring professionals to apply to its Programs.

Students whose prior education occurred at an institution that is not approved by an accrediting body in North America may have their credentials examined for equivalency to Canadian Standards by the University of Toronto or another Ontario university educational assessment service.

AGPS recognizes the importance of preparing psychologists and human service professionals who have the background and resources for providing services in the diverse communities throughout Ontario and elsewhere.

The language of classes at AGPS is English, and applicants whose first language is not English may be asked to submit evidence of proficiency in both the written and spoken language prior to admission. AGPS will provide reasonable support to students as they work to improve their English language skills.
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Non-Discrimination Policy

AGPS is committed to non-discrimination and equal opportunity in employment and education, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status in every aspect of services.  The educational programs, activities, and services offered to students are administered on a non-discriminatory basis subject to the provisions of all human rights laws and statutes. In these endeavors, AGPS promotes non-discrimination and equal opportunity and makes a major effort to identify and eliminate under-representation of minority members and females in the student body, faculty, and staff.  Furthermore, AGPS shall make reasonable accommodations on the basis of physical and mental disability (see Students with Special Needs in Academic Calendar.)

The above principles apply not only to students, but to faculty and other professionals, staff, and clients or patients in any Program.
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Plagiarism

All students are expected to acknowledge the ideas and written work of others. Unless otherwise specified, assignments are to be completed by the individual student, and submissions for one class may not also be submitted for another class. Each student must submit his or her own work to fulfil course requirements, unless an instructor has allowed a joint submission. Student consultation regarding assignments should be limited to group projects and shared assignments that have been designated as such by the instructor. At all times, students are expected to exhibit honesty and integrity in their academic and clinical or helping service activities. Faculty members are expected to examine written work submitted by students to ensure its originality. Students are expected to retain notes and access to materials that will aid instructors in this process (See also Academic Honesty).
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Prerequisites

Students are responsible for ensuring that they meet the prerequisites for each course. Instructors will poll students at the beginning of each class. If the prerequisite requirements are not met, the instructor has the right to ask the student to leave.  A student without a prerequisite may contact the instructor before the beginning of the class to ask in writing to have the prerequisite waived. Whether or not to accept the student into the class is entirely at the discretion of the instructor. If the instructor accepts the request of the student, the instructor must approve the student’s written request and forward it to the Program Dean confirming that the student has permission to take the course without meeting the prerequisite.
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Privacy of Information

In compliance with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (Canada), Adler Graduate Professional School has developed a Confidentiality Agreement that is designed to protect personal information of students, faculty, and staff. All faculty and staff are required to sign this document. The agreement meets the standards set by federal and provincial legislation following the ten principles of accountability, identifying purposes, consent, limiting collection, limiting use, disclosure and retention, accuracy, safeguards, openness, individual access, and challenging compliance. Any student, staff, or faculty member, or any member of the public, may view this document by request to the Privacy Officer.

Contact information for students enrolled at Adler Graduate Professional School is treated as confidential and for use only by the School and its affiliates for educational or informational purposes.  A student’s Social Insurance Number is used only in the preparation of Canada Revenue Agency tax form T2202 for educational expenses. Audio or visual recordings of classes or school-sponsored events by Adler Graduate Professional School may be used only to fulfill course requirements. Sound or visual recording or use of recordings for any other purposes requires the written consent of students involved or identified. Professional standards of confidentiality take precedence.
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Registration and Class Enrollment

Each Program has its own forms and procedures for registration and class signup.  Consult specific Program for details.
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Research

The following types of research require the approval of the Research Review Committee:

• Student research conducted as part of course or Clinical Master’s Project requirements
• Research conducted by external or internal individuals/groups that utilizes School resources or claim any affiliation with AGPS
• Faculty research conducted internally or externally
• Any faculty research in which the faculty member utilizes school resources or claims any affiliation with AGPS
• In-house research/evaluation being conducted by any department or individual
• Any research that deviates from a pre-approved submission
• Any research that extends beyond three years from the date of the original date of approval

The Research Review Committee will consist of at least three members including the Director of Research, who serves as Chair of the Committee, a faculty member appointed by the Director of Research from the Program most closely allied with the research subject matter, and one external reviewer as proposed by the researcher and approved by the Director of Research. The Director of Research may appoint additional members to provide necessary expertise, as long as a majority of the members are drawn from AGPS faculty.  All members will vote on the submission. Researchers shall not participate in decision making on their own research proposal.

Research Policy for the AGPS shall consist of the Canadian Code of Ethics for Psychologists, 3^rd edition, 2000.  In addition, for educational and psychological testing, policies follow the Canadian Psychological Association recommendation to utilize the Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing approved by the American Educational Research Association, the American Psychological Association and the National Council on Measurement in Education found on the APA web site.  The Research Review Committee will ensure that AGPS research and testing policies and procedures meet or exceed those recommended standards.

In keeping with ethical guidelines and professional standards, AGPS in all its Programs adheres to the Tri-Council Policy Statement regarding Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans (1998).  (http://www.ccac.ca/en/CCAC_Programs/Guidelines_Policies/PDFs/Procurement_Guidelines_EN.pdf)

The above policies are outlined by Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, Tri-Council Policy Statement: Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans. 1998 (with 2000, 2002, and 2005 amendments).

Any research activity by students, staff, or faculty of Adler Graduate Professional School (AGPS), and any relevant research conducted using resources of AGPS must conform to the procedural codes of ethics of the Canadian Federal Research-Granting Agencies including the Medical Research Council (MRC), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) as set out in the Tri-Council Policy Statement: Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans, 1998 (with 2000, 2002 and 2005 amendments). To further clarify, AGPS will adhere to the ethical code and associated research behaviour and practices specified by the Canadian Federal Research Agencies. Such policies shall take precedence over any other ethical standards that may supplement AGPS research guidelines

In addition, should any student, staff, faculty or AGPS resource be involved in research with animals, AGPS will apply the ethical standards of the Canadian Council on Animal Care policies regarding Ethics in Animal Experimentation and Guidelines on Procurement of Animals Used in Science (http://www.ccac.ca/en/CCAC_Programs/Guidelines_Policies/PDFs/Procurement_Guidelines_EN.pdf).

The AGPS Director of Research and Research Ethics Board are directed to ensure that all relevant policies and procedures are designed to carry out this commitment to abide by the highest standards for research in Canadian Universities and to conduct an annual review to ensure that research policies and procedures remain current.
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Residency Requirement

Each program has its own requirement for length of consecutive trimesters of attendance. Consult specific program residency requirements.
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Responsibility for Knowledge of Policies

Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with all student and academic policies, including course prerequisites and graduation requirements. By signing their Registration Agreement, newly admitted students affirm that they have been provided access to the current Academic Calendar and that they agree to abide by the policies, procedures, and guidelines contained therein. At each subsequent registration, students are asked to indicate their continuing agreement to abide by current policies and procedures.

AGPS reserves the right to change, without notice, curricula, courses, policies and procedures and to apply changes to all enrolled students. Students will be notified of any changes through the AdLearn Online collaboration system, to which all students have access. All students are expected to maintain communication with the School so as to apprise themselves of current policies and regulations.
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Responsibility for Reading Materials

The School will place orders for texts and other materials with its designated bookstore.  However, it is up to each student to ensure access to required texts. If they are not available from the designated bookstore, then the student should place an order independently with another bookstore. It is not the School’s responsibility to ensure that texts are available once it has placed the order as requested by the instructor. No class refunds will be made because reading materials were not available.
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Satisfactory Progress

Students are expected to maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 or B. Any student whose

• cumulative GPA falls below 3.0 or
• who receives two or more grades of C+, C, or C- or
• who receives one or more grades of D or F or
• who receives three or more grades of N

will be referred to the Academic Standing Committee.

Students may be referred to the Committee by the Program Dean upon notification by the Registrar of the student’s failure to maintain satisfactory progress. The Academic Standing Committee will review the student’s transcript, interview the student, and, if it deems necessary, interview the student’s Faculty Mentor/Advisor and/or the instructor(s) who have submitted any grade(s) in question. The purpose of the review and interview will be to identify mitigating circumstances indicating that the unsatisfactory grade(s) or other failure to maintain satisfactory progress may be remediated. As a result of its inquiry, the Academic Standing Committee may recommend to the Program Dean one or more of the following actions:

1.   remediation. The Academic Standing Committee will specify a plan and timeline which the student must follow. This may include recommendations for resources such as a Learning Coach or tutor which may require the student to pay additional fees. Should the student be unwilling or unable to complete the plan specified by the Academic Standing Committee, the consequence would be dismissal from the class or Program.

2.   reprimand. The Academic Standing Committee may recommend a statement to appear in the student’s record.

3.   probation. Standards that must be upheld for continuation in the Program will be recommended by the Committee, along with a timeline.

4.   suspension. The Committee may recommend that a student remove himself or herself from the Program for a set period.

5.   dismissal. The effective date of a dismissal should be included with a recommendation for this action.

6.   no action necessary.

The Academic Standing Committee will provide a description of the recommended action and its rationale in writing to the Program Dean, who will decide whether to accept the recommendation. If the recommendation is accepted, the Dean will inform the student in writing, including details of any remediation or probation plan. The student may appeal the decision of the Dean by following the procedures outlined in Complaints, Grievances, and Appeals.

Maintaining satisfactory progress also requires fulfilling the Residency Requirement as outlined in the Academic Calendar (www.adler.ca) and in information specific to the Program. They must also complete a minimum of 12 credit hours every twelve months and satisfactorily complete all of the requirements for graduation by the end of their assigned tenure as a student (5 years for Master of Psychology students).
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Student Associations

Students in each Faculty participate in self-governance through an AGPS Student Association funded by the Student Activity fees collected each term. Each Association decides on its own structure and procedures. Students are encouraged to participate in Student Association activities and to run for positions that may include representation on the School’s Advisory Council or at other School functions. The Student Association also organizes social events throughout the school year, as well as planning the graduation event in conjunction with AGPS administration.
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Student Behavior in Class

Students are expected to maintain a professional attitude at all times, and to cooperate in the maintenance of a professional learning environment.

Students who enrol in AGPS Programs are embarking on a much broader journey than simply acquiring information or gaining skills. As students, they are engaged in becoming human service professionals.  As representatives of a particular profession, and of the mental health professions in general, it is incumbent upon them to take responsibility for maintaining a professional role beyond the subject matter of courses.

Dress code for classes is informal, but that should not be taken as a sign that comportment is unimportant, or that behaviour is not governed by strict ethical and professional standards.  For example, eating one’s lunch or dinner in a group where not everyone is eating would be considered rude in a professional setting.  Carrying on a conversation when a colleague is presenting would be considered disrespectful among professional colleagues. Leaving trash where others are due to work would not be tolerated on a job.  All food and other refuse must be disposed of in the appropriate garbage receptacles.

All students are expected to arrive on time for class, as the instructor will begin lecturing at the designated hour for the course. All students are expected to maintain a professional and respectful demeanour during class time, and during any interaction at the School.

All students are requested to turn off pagers and cell phones during class, and are prohibited from using any audio or video recording devices without express written permission of those being recorded.
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Student Conduct

AGPS will take disciplinary action as required by a student’s behaviour. Such action may include suspension, probation, or dismissal if problems arise with respect to a student’s academic or clinical activities, ethical standards, attendance, financial delinquency, or any personal conduct significantly detrimental to educational goals. AGPS may also take action if a panel including the Dean or Director of the Program in which the student is enrolled, the student’s Academic Advisor/Mentor and one other Program Core Faculty member deems the mental health of the student to be at risk. Behaviour that is deemed detrimental to the learning environment is also subject to disciplinary action. Students are expected to act in a respectful and courteous manner to staff, faculty, fellow students, clients, service consumers, and professional colleagues at all times.
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Students with Special Needs

Adler Graduate Professional School makes every effort to accommodate students with special needs, as part of our commitment to diversity. Such students are asked to contact the Dean of Students prior to registering in their first class to discuss their needs and the School’s ability to accommodate them.

If students with special needs require consideration with respect to taping lectures, extending the time required for writing in-class examinations, or other issues pertaining to the completion of course work, attendance, and assignments, a note from a doctor or other qualified professional will be required. That note should stipulate the kind of consideration required in relation to the student’s identified special need. The note should be addressed to the Dean of Students, who will consult with the Dean or Director of the Program to which the student has applied and appropriate faculty members in order to coordinate any necessary accommodations.

The School cannot be held responsible, however, if it is unable to accommodate a student’s needs. There are limitations with respect to space, equipment, transcribing materials, and instructor availability, for example, which may limit the School’s ability to respond to special needs students.
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Transcripts

A transcript is the official document certified by the Registrar as being an accurate record of a student’s performance and achievements during his or her tenure at Adler Graduate Professional School. The transcript includes the following information:

• • personal identifying information (the student’s name, contact information, and  unique student number)
  • basis of admission:

• • • documentation relating to admission requirements that verify the student’s qualifications to enter the Program);
    • full documentation relating to credit transfers, entrance examinations, prior learning assessment used either for admission or advanced placement;

o   academic history:

§  the subjects/courses the student took at the School, when these were taken, and the final grades for completed courses;

§  chronological student records showing dates of enrolments, Program commencement, withdrawals, leaves of absence, completion;

o   academic actions against the student by the School;

o   the degree awarded and the date conferred;

o   any other certificates, diplomas, or other educational achievements earned by the student at the School

o   academic awards and honours given to the student by the School; and

o   name and contact of the Registrar.

The information is entered into a robust software program that is mirrored and backed up nightly at an offsite location. Electronic records are checked for accuracy on a regular basis, and upgrades are considered and decided on at a yearly evaluation.

Students receive their grades from instructors at the completion of each class. It is highly recommended that students keep these documents, along with copies of any assignments they have handed in and the notes they consulted in completing them. At meetings with their Faculty Mentor/Advisor, students may request a grade report from the Registrar and then compare their informal understanding of their grades with the official record. Because it is the transcript which will be used to verify a student’s record, it is advisable to be aware of its contents and to question entries that do not match a student’s assumptions. Although grades themselves are not typically open to a grievance (see Complaints, Grievances, and Appeals in the Academic Calendar, www.adler.ca), errors or a misapplication of class evaluation or policy may be.

Students are provided with one official copy of their transcript upon graduation, and additional copies are charged a transcript fee (see Schedule of Tuition and Fees). As a requirement for consent to offer a degree in Ontario, Adler Graduate Professional School has arranged for transcripts to be available to students for 75 years after they graduate. The Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities will assist a graduate in locating the School or any third party that has assumed this duty in order to make his or her transcript accessible for the required 75 years.
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Truth in Advertising and Recruitment

All public reports, materials and advertising produced by any organization in the AGPS community will be presented in a full, accurate and truthful manner.  Recruitment of students will be guided by fair business practices.  Key information about AGPS Programs and policies will be published in the Academic Calendar, on the School website, and otherwise made readily available to students and the public.
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Withdrawal and Refunds

Dropping a Class

A drop request for a class in which a student has enrolled must be in writing in the form of a Drop Class Refund Requisition. Verbal, telephone, or email requests will not be accepted.

o   Step 1: Obtain a Drop Class Refund Requisition from the Registrar’s Office or by download from AdLearn Online.

o   Step 2: Complete the Class Refund Requisition by filling in the following information: (It is highly recommended that students consult their Faculty Mentor/Advisor whenever contemplating a class change):

• The student’s name
• The date of withdrawal
• The date of the request for a refund
• The class from which the student is withdrawing
• The reason for withdrawal
• The number of required classroom hours to date of withdrawal
• The total number of required classroom hours for the course
• Signature of the student

o   Step 3: Obtain the signature or electronic approval of the course instructor.

o   Step 4: Present the approved Drop Class Refund Requisition to the Registrar for validation.

• (a)  If the Registrar’s records do not match the information on the Drop Class Refund Requisition and the student does not agree with corrections suggested by the Registrar, the matter will be referred to the student’s Program Dean within three working days for a decision and validation, to be rendered within five working days. Students who do not agree with the decision of the Program Dean have recourse via Complaints, Grievances, and Appeals.
• (b) Once the requisition is validated, the Registrar will within three working days approve and forward the Drop Class Refund Requisition to the School’s Financial Department, which will issue a cheque for any refund due to the student (see Dropping a Class—Refund Policy) no more than 30 days following the date the Registrar received a valid Drop Class Refund Requisition.

The Registrar will enter a grade of W (see Grading—Other Grades) on the student’s transcript and will amend the student’s Class List and forward it to the student’s Faculty Mentor/Advisor for consultation with the student and approval of a new Class List.

Students who drop classes without following procedures will be required to pay the full tuition and will be awarded a grade of “N” (No Pass, see Grading—Other Grades) for the class. They will be required to pay full tuition and repeat the class in order to receive credit.

• Dropping a Class: Refund Policy

No more than three working days following receipt of a validated Drop Class Refund Requisition (see Dropping a Class above), the Registrar will forward the Drop Class Refund Requisition to the Financial Department, which will in no more than thirty days issue a cheque for any refund due to the student according to the following guidelines:

If the Registrar receives a validated Drop Class Refund Requisition.

• 22 or more days preceding class start date, refund is 100%.
• From 21 days preceding class start date up to and including class start date, refund is 100% of class tuition minus an Add/Drop administrative fee per credit. (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees)
• After class start date but before one-half completion of the class (8 through 18 required class hours for a 3-credit class), refund is 50% of tuition for the class, minus an Add/Drop administrative fee per credit. (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees)
• After one-half but before three-quarters completion of the class (19 through 27 required class hours for a 3-credit class), refund is 25% of tuition for the class minus an Add/Drop administrative fee per credit. (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees)
• After three-quarters of class completion (28 through 36 required class hours for a 3-credit class), no refund is due.

Dropping the Program

The request to drop the Masters of Psychology Program must be in writing. Verbal, telephone, or email requests will not be accepted. It is highly recommended that students take advantage of consultation opportunities with their Faculty Mentor/Advisor or with the Program Dean to discuss their options and to determine if additional support will allow them to continue in the Program or if taking a leave of absence will serve their needs. A written notice of intent to withdraw including the student’s original signature will suffice if presented up to and including the first day of regular classes. Following the first day of regular classes, dropping the Program requires a Drop Program Refund Requisition following these steps:

• Step 1: Obtain a Drop Program Refund Requisition form from the Registrar’s Office or by download from AdLearn Online.
• Step 2: Complete the Drop Program Refund Requisition by filling in the following information:

o   The student’s name

o   The date of withdrawal

o   The date of the request for a refund

o   The program from which the student is withdrawing

o   The reason for withdrawal

o   The number of class hours the student was required to attend during the current trimester up to date of withdrawal request

o   Total number of class hours for required regular courses on the student’s approved Class List for the current trimester.

o   Signature of the student

• Step 3: Obtain the signature or electronic approval of the Program Dean
• Step 4: Present the approved Drop Program Refund Requisition to the Registrar for validation.

o   (a) If the Registrar’s records do not match the information on the Drop Program Refund Requisition and the student does not agree with corrections suggested by the Registrar, the matter will be referred to the student’s Program Dean within three working days for a decision and validation, to be rendered within five working days. Students who do not agree with the decision of the Program Dean have recourse via Complaints, Grievances, and Appeals.

o   (b) Once a Drop Program Refund Requisition is validated showing a refund due to the student (see Dropping a Program: Refund Policy), the Registrar will within three working days forward the Drop Program Refund Requisition to the School’s Financial Department, which will issue a cheque to the student no more than 30 days following the date the Registrar received the validated Drop Program Refund Requisition.

The Registrar will note “withdrawn from program” and the date in the student’s transcript. Should students wish to enroll in any program which they have dropped, they will be required to submit a new application for the program. In order to be re-admitted, they must submit a new application and fulfill requirements as indicated in the Academic Calendar (www.adler.ca) current at that time.

• Dropping the Program: Refund Policy

The Admissions fee is not refundable. Learning Resources and Student Activities Fees are not refundable after the student has attended the first day of regular classes.

o   A student who gives written notice to the Registrar within two days of signing the Registration Agreement that he or she rescinds the Registration Agreement will be given a full refund of Tuition within 30 days of receipt of such notice.  The written notice must contain an original signature of the student. A telephone or email message will not suffice.

o   A student who gives written notice to the Registrar three days after signing the Registration Agreement but before the first day of classes that he or she does not intend to begin the program will be given a refund of Tuition, Learning Resources Fee, and Student Activities Fee minus the Program Withdrawal Fee (see Schedule of Tuition and Fees) within 30 days of receipt of such notice. The written notice must contain an original signature of the student. A telephone or email message will not suffice.

o   A student who does not attend the first ten consecutive days of the Program will be withdrawn from the Program and given a refund of Tuition minus the Program Withdrawal Fee (see Schedule of Tuition and Fees) within 30 days of withdrawal from the Program. After the first day of regular classes, Learning Resources and Student Activities Fees are not refundable.

o   Following the first day of regular classes, refunds are given only upon presentation of a validated Drop Program Refund Requisition obtained according to the procedures outlined above under Dropping a Program. After the first day of regular classes, Learning Resources and Student Activities Fees are not refundable. If a valid Drop Program Refund Requisition is received by the Registrar

• • • After the first day of regular classes but before 25% completion (up to one month) of the required regular classes on the student’s approved Class List for the current trimester, refund is 75% of tuition minus a Program Withdrawal Fee (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees).
    • Between 26% and 50% completion (up to two months) of the required regular classes on the student’s approved Class List for the current trimester, refund is 50% of tuition minus a Program Withdrawal Fee (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees).
    • Between 51% and 75% completion (up to three months) of the required regular classes on the student’s approved Class List for the current trimester, refund is 25% of tuition minus a Program Withdrawal Fee (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees).
    • After 76% completion (three months) of required regular classes on the student’s approved Class List for the current trimester, no refund is due.

Dismissal from Class

Students may be dismissed from a class as a result of a decision by the Program Dean, in the case of failure to comply with school policy as outlined in the Academic Calendar and other school documents, after a recommendation of dismissal by the Program’s Academic Standing Committee, as a result of actions taken under the Complaints, Grievances and Appeals process, or other disciplinary action. Tuition that has not been earned by the School will be refunded according to policies under Class Dismissal: Refund Policy. After receiving a validated notice of dismissal, the Registrar will enter a grade of X for the class (see Grading—Other Grades) on the student’s transcript and will amend the student’s Class List and forward it to the student’s Faculty Mentor/Advisor for consultation with the student and approval of a new Class List. A student dismissed in this way will be required to pay full tuition and repeat the class in order to receive credit for it.

• Dismissal from Class: Refund Policy

Students who are dismissed from a class as a result of a decision by the Program Dean, by the Program’s Academic Standing Committee, as a result of actions taken under the Complaints, Grievances and Appeals process, or other disciplinary action will be given a refund of unearned tuition within 30 days of the effective date of the dismissal. If the Registrar is presented with a validated document that has effective date of dismissal that is

o   Prior to the class start date, refund is 100% of class tuition minus an Add/Drop administrative fee per credit. (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees)

o   After class start date but before one-half completion of the class (from 8 through 18 required class hours for a 3-credit class), refund is 50% of tuition for the class, minus an Add/Drop administrative fee per credit. (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees)

o   After one-half but before three-quarters completion of the class (from 19 through 27 required class hours for a 3-credit class), refund is 25% of tuition for the class minus an Add/Drop administrative fee per credit. (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees)

o   After three-quarters of class completion (28 through 36 required class hours for a 3-credit class), no refund is due.

Dismissal from Program

If an admitted student does not return a completed Registration Agreement and pay Tuition for the pre-session by the registration deadline, she or he will be deemed to have rejected the offer of admission and must re-apply to enter the program. Students will be considered automatically withdrawn from their degree program if they fail to attend the first ten consecutive days of classes in the first term after signing the Registration Agreement, or if they fail to enroll in classes for two consecutive terms, unless the Program Dean has given written permission for the absence or the student has applied for and received a Leave of Absence (see Academic Calendar www.adler.ca).

Students may be dismissed from the Program as a result of a decision by the Program Dean, in the case of failure to comply with School policy as outlined in the Academic Calendar and other School documents, after a recommendation of dismissal by Academic Standing Committee, as a result of actions taken under the Complaints, Grievances and Appeals process, or other disciplinary action.  Upon receipt of a properly executed Notice of Dismissal signed by the Program Dean, the Academic Vice-President, or the President and containing the effective date of dismissal, the Registrar will note “administratively dismissed from Program” and the date in the student’s transcript. Should students wish to enroll in any program from which they have been dismissed, they will be required to submit a new application and fulfill requirements as indicated in the Academic Calendar (www.adler.ca) current at that time.

• Dismissal from Program: Refund Policy

The Admissions fee is not refundable. Learning Resources and Student Activities Fees are not refundable after the first day of regular classes.

o   A student who does not complete the Registration Agreement by the first day of class (pre-session or regular, whichever is earlier) will be deemed to have rejected the offer of admission and must re-apply.

o   A student who has completed the Registration Agreement but does not attend classes for the first ten consecutive days after the beginning of the first class for which he or she has enrolled will be dismissed from the Program and given a refund of Tuition, Learning Resources, and Student Activity fees minus a Program Withdrawal Fee (see Schedule of Tuition and Fees) within thirty days of the effective date of dismissal.

o   For a student who is dismissed

• • • Prior to the first day of regular classes for the trimester, refund is 100% of Tuition minus a Program Withdrawal Fee (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees).
    • After the first day of regular classes but before 25% completion (up to one month) of the required regular classes on the student’s approved Class List for the current trimester, refund is 75% of Tuition minus a Program Withdrawal Fee (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees).
    • Between 26% and 50% completion (up to two months) of the required regular classes on the student’s approved Class List for the current trimester, refund is 50% of tuition minus a Program Withdrawal Fee (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees).
    • Between 51% and 75% completion (up to three months) of the required regular classes on the student’s approved Class List for the current trimester, refund is 25% of tuition minus a Program Withdrawal Fee (See Schedule of Tuition and Fees).
    • After 76% completion (three months) of required regular classes on the student’s approved Class List for the current trimester, no refund is due.

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