Consumer Information

Admission Criteria
The goal of the admissions process is to recruit and admit candidates who are most likely to succeed in the UWS educational programs, will go on to pass licensing exams, and will succeed as health care professionals. The application process is designed to afford maximum opportunity for prospective students to present the fullest picture of themselves.

Qualification is based on assessment of all available information. The applicant’s academic record is important. The university looks for achievement and consistency, especially in academic performance. Students’ formal and informal presentations of themselves through written materials, phone contact, campus visits, and interviews are also important. It is hoped that applicants can make a logical and articulate connection between their employment, volunteer, academic, and other experiences and the desire to pursue education at UWS. The university values conscientious, ethical, and mature handling of admissions and other interactions. The university looks for informed thoughtfulness and commitment, as well as evidence that there is a good match between the character, expectations, and goals of the prospective student and those of UWS programs. In addition, the university looks for indications that the student is prepared for the responsibilities to society inherent in being a licensed health care professional.

Evaluation for admission begins when a complete application package has been received. Applicants will be accepted on the basis of the professional judgment of the admissions staff, as well as the availability of space. UWS reserves the right to deny admission for any reason other than those prohibited by law and, based on updated information, to reconsider and retract any candidate’s acceptance prior to enrollment.

Candidates for admission must possess physical and other abilities that allow them to meet performance standards required of all UWS students. For details of these requirements, refer to the technical standards below.

UWS financial aid professionals help students pursue their educational goals and achieve success by providing information about and access to appropriate financial resources. To this end, financial aid staff members are guided by a set of principles that serve as a common foundation for an acceptable standard of conduct.

1. No action will be taken by financial aid staff that is for their personal benefit or could be perceived to be a conflict of interest.

• Employees within the financial aid office will not award aid to themselves or their immediate family members. Staff will reserve this task to an institutionally designated person, to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest.
• The University has no preferred lending agreement with any lender of private educational loans and does not maintain a preferred lender list.  Neither the University nor any employee shall enter into any revenue-sharing arrangement with any lender or accept offers of funds for private loans to students in exchange for providing concessions or promises to the lender for a specific number of loans, a specified loan volume, or a preferred lender arrangement.
• A borrower’s choice of a lender will not be denied, impeded, or unnecessarily delayed by the institution. Borrowers will not be auto-assigned to any particular lender.
• No amount of cash, gift, or benefit in excess of a de minimis amount shall be accepted by a financial aid staff member from any financial aid applicant (or his/her family), or from any entity doing business with or seeking to do business with the institution (including service on advisory committees or boards beyond reimbursement for reasonable expenses directly associated with such service).
• No compensation may be accepted for any type of consulting arrangement or contract to provide services to or on behalf of a lender relating to education loans.

2. Information provided by the financial aid office is accurate, unbiased, and does not reflect preference arising from actual or potential personal gain.
3. Institutional award notifications and/or other institutionally provided materials shall include the following:

• A breakdown of individual components of the institution’s Cost of Attendance.
• Clear identification of each award, indicating type of aid, i.e. gift aid (grant, scholarship), work, or loan.
• Standard terminology and definitions.
• Renewal requirements for each award.

4. All required consumer information is displayed in a prominent location on the institutional web site(s) and in any printed materials, easily identified and found, and labeled as “Consumer Information.”
5. Financial aid professionals will disclose to their institution any involvement, interest in, or potential conflict of interest with any entity with which the institution has a business relationship.

Statement of Ethical Principles

The primary goal of the institutional financial aid professional is to help students achieve their educational goals by providing appropriate financial support and resources. To this end, this statement provides that the financial aid professional shall:

Advocate for students

• Remain aware of issues affecting students and continually advocate for their interests at the institutional, state and federal levels.
• Support federal, state and institutional efforts to encourage students to aspire to and plan for education beyond high school.

Manifest the highest level of integrity

• Commit to the highest level of ethical behavior and refrain from conflict of interest or the perception thereof.
• Deal with others honestly and fairly, abiding by our commitments and always acting in a manner that merits the trust and confidence others have placed in us.
• Protect the privacy of individual student financial records.
• Promote the free expression of ideas and opinions, and foster respect for diverse viewpoints within the profession.

Support student access and success

• Commit to removing financial barriers for those who want to pursue postsecondary learning and support each student admitted to our institution.
• Without charge, assist students in applying for financial aid funds.
• Provide services and apply principles that do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, or economic status.
• Understand the need for financial education and commit to educate students and families on how to responsibly manage expenses and debt.

Comply with federal and state laws

• Adhere to all applicable laws and regulations governing federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs.
• Actively participate in ongoing professional development and continuing education programs to ensure ample understanding of statutes, regulations, and best practices governing the financial aid programs.
• Encourage colleagues to participate in the financial aid professional associations available to them at the state, regional, or national level and offer assistance to other aid professionals as needed.

Strive for transparency and clarity 

• Provide our students and parents with the information they need to make good decisions about attending and paying for college.
• Educate students and families through quality information that is consumer-tested when possible. This includes (but is not limited to) transparency and full disclosure on award notices.
• Ensure equity by applying all need-analysis formulas consistently across the institution’s full population of student financial aid applicants.
• Inform institutions, students, and parents of any changes in financial aid programs that could affect their student aid eligibility.

Protect the privacy of financial aid applicants

• Ensure that student and parent private information provided to the financial aid office by financial aid applicants is protected in accordance with all state and federal statutes and regulations, including FERPA and the Higher Education Act, Section 483(a)(3)(E) (20 U.S.C. 1090).
• Protect the information on the FAFSA from inappropriate use by ensuring that this information is only used for the application, award, and administration of aid awarded under Title IV of the Higher Education Act, state aid, or aid awarded by eligible institutions.

*This was adopted in part from the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators’ Statement of Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct for Financial Aid Professionals. The obligations in this Code of Conduct are in addition to any requirements imposed by state or federal laws, or University of Western State policies.

The office of financial aid disburses funds for students attending on-campus programs prior to the start of each term and refunds are typically available on the first day of the term for students who have completed all requirements at least a week prior to the start of the term. For students attending on-line programs, the office of financial aid disburses funds as soon as enrollment and participation can be confirmed, and refunds are typically available as a direct deposit or check to be mailed within three business days. Outside of the start of the term, UWS processes disbursements and refunds at least weekly over the remainder of the term for students who become eligible or are approved for additional funding. Any student, including on-line students, requiring access to books prior to the 7th day of the term may contact the UWS library, which maintains copies of course books for lending, or the financial aid office to discuss additional questions.

INTRODUCTION
U.S. Department of Education Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Regulations

Part 86 – Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Regulations from the Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR), requires that, as a condition of receiving funds or any other form of financial assistance under any federal program, an institution of higher education (IHE) must provide to its students, faculty and staff information to prevent drug and alcohol abuse. The university must also have a drug and alcohol prevention program.

STANDARDS OF CONDUCT

University of Western States prohibits the possession, use, manufacture or distribution of marijuana, cannabinoids, other controlled substances or illegal drug paraphernalia, by students and employees in buildings, facilities, grounds or property controlled by the university, or as part of university activities. Controlled substances include, but are not limited to, marijuana, cannabinoids, cocaine, cocaine derivatives, heroin, amphetamines, barbiturates, LSD, PCP, tranquilizers and inhalants. The university is committed to preventing the abuse of alcohol, marijuana, cannabinoids, and the illegal use of controlled substances, marijuana, cannabinoids and/or alcohol by employees.

Read the full UWS policy 1008 here.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL COUNSELING TREATMENTS AVAILABLE

Counseling services are provided free to all UWS students and their families through the WellConnect student assistance program. WellConnect is easy to use and offers referrals and support for various types of counseling to suit your individual needs. Learn more here.

Staff and faculty may contact Human Resources at humanresources@test.uws.edu. All full and part-time, benefitted employees have access to Cascade Employee Assistance Program, which provides confidential counseling for employees and their dependents. Counselors are available 24/7 by calling 800-433-2320.

HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH DRUG AND ALCOHOL USE

Most drugs of abuse can alter a person’s thinking and judgment, leading to health risks, including addiction, drugged driving and infectious disease. Most drugs could potentially harm an unborn baby; pregnancy-related issues are listed in the chart below for drugs where there is enough scientific evidence to connect the drug use to specific negative effects.
More information can be found here.

BIENNIAL PROGRAM REVIEW OF THE DRUG AND ALCOHOL PREVENTION PROGRAM

The Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program underwent review in August 2018 and was found to be compliant with current regulations. There are no significant revisions necessary at this time for the program.

The program review identified that since September 1, 2016 there have been two incident reports involving alcohol or drug related concerns. Neither lead to any sanctions of any type, nor were there fatalities.

The next review is scheduled for August 2020.

Questions related to the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program should be directed to studentsuccess@test.uws.edu or humanresources@test.uws.edu.

DESCRIPTION OF SANCTIONS

In addition to any penalties under local, state, and federal law, employees or students found to be in violation of this policy may be subject to disciplinary sanctions consistent with applicable provisions of state laws and regulations (including the UWS Student Conduct Code, applicable collective bargaining agreements and applicable university policies, regulations and directives).

If imposed, sanctions will include appropriate action up to and including expulsion or termination of employment and referral for prosecution and may require participation in an approved drug or alcohol abuse assistance or rehabilitation program

City of Portland Sanctions

The City of Portland establishes sanctions for certain alcohol violations, generally punishable by a fine of not more than $500, or by imprisonment of not more than six months, or by both. No penalty shall be greater than that allowed under Oregon law. PCC 14A.20.060.

• Alcohol on Public Property and Rights of Way (PCC 14A.50.010): prohibits drinking alcohol or possessing bottle, can or other receptacle that has been opened, the seal broken, or the contents partially removed upon any street, sidewalk or other public right of way.
• Streetcar (PCC 14A.110.220): prohibits a person from possessing an open container of alcoholic beverage or from being under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance on a Portland Streetcar vehicle or at a Portland Streetcar station.
• Vehicle Impoundment (PCC 14B.40.010): provides that a vehicle used by a person arrested in the City for DUII may be seized and impounded.

State of Oregon Sanctions

Alcohol

• MIP – Minor in Possession: No minor under 21 years of age shall attempt to purchase or be in possession of alcoholic liquor. Possession may include holding, consuming or attempting to purchase alcohol. Personal possession of alcoholic liquor includes consumption of liquor. Fine: Up to $1,000 (Class B Violation) ORS 471.430 (1)  
• Controlling an Area Where Minors are Permitted to Consume Alcohol: No person in control of property may knowingly allow minor(s) to consume alcohol or allow minor(s) to remain on the property after consuming. Private property may include a hotel room, camp site, or any rented/leased location. Fine: 1st offense up to $2,000 (Class A Violation), 2nd and subsequent violation is specific fine violation with presumptive fine of $1,000 ORS 471.410 (3)  
• Furnishing Alcoholic Liquor to a Minor: No one shall sell, give or otherwise make available any alcoholic liquor to a person under the age of 21 years. Penalty: Fine up to $6,250 (or double the gain from commission of offense) and/or jail or both (Class A Misdemeanor) ORS 471.410(2)  
• Driving Under the Influence: A person commits the offense of driving while under the influence of intoxicants if the person drives a vehicle while the person has a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or more and/or under the influence of intoxicating liquor and/ or controlled substance. Under state of Oregon DUII statutes, for a person under 21 years of age, any amount of alcohol in the blood constitutes being under the influence of intoxicating liquor. Penalty: Fine up to $6,250 and/or jail or both (Class A Misdemeanor) and subject to statute requiring minimum fine of $1,000 for 1st offense, $1,500 fine for 2nd offense, and $2,000 fine for the 3rd or subsequent conviction if the person is not sentenced to a term of imprisonment. Additional penalties may include: fee to be paid on conviction, suspension of license, mandatory alcohol education, screening and treatment, mandatory imprisonment or community service, attendance at victim impact treatment session and session fee, and ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle ORS 813.01
• Misrepresentation of Age by a Minor: When minors misrepresent their age, purposely are not truthful about their age to purchase alcohol, enter a lounge or evade detection by law enforcement, the minor may be fined. If DMV identification is used in misrepresentation, the minor’s driving privileges may be suspended for up to one year and/or the minor will have to wait for up to one year to apply for a driver’s license and the minor may be required to perform community service. Penalty: Fine up to $1,250 and/or jail or both (Class C Misdemeanor) ORS 165.805
• False Swearing: Falsifying information knowing that what you say is untrue. Anyone purchasing a keg using a false name or any other deceitful information shall be subject to this definition. Penalty: Fine up to $6,250 and/or jail or both (Class A Misdemeanor) ORS 162.075 (1)
• Entry of Licensed Premises by Persons Under 21: No one under 21 years of age shall enter or attempt to enter any area of a licensed premise that is posted or otherwise identified as prohibited to minors. Fine: Up to $1,000 (Class B Violation) ORS 471.430 (3 and 4)
• Mixing, Storing or Serving Alcohol Without a License: No person who owns, operates or conducts a private or public club and who is not in possession of a license issued by the commission permitting the mixing, storing, and serving of alcoholic liquor at said premises, and no agent, servant or employee of such person, for a financial consideration by way of a charge for service, membership fee, admission fee, initiation fee, club dues, contributions or other fee or charge, shall serve or permit to be serve. Penalty: Fine up to $6,250 and/or jail or both (Class A Misdemeanor) ORS 471.475

Illicit drugs

In Oregon, penalties for possession and distribution are determined by the controlled Substance Schedule upon which the drug appears. Examples from the drug schedules appear below. (Note: Most drugs appear on the same federal and state schedules. On July 1, 2015, changes in Oregon law come into effect regarding marijuana; however, that substance continues to be a controlled substance under federal law. As a federally-controlled substance, the use, possession, manufacture, or distribution of marijuana in any form is prohibited on campus).

• Schedule I: Heroin, LSD, Marijuana, Peyote, Mescaline, Psilocybin
• Schedule II: Cocaine, Amphetamine, Methamphetamine
• Schedule III: Anabolic Steroids, Buprenorphine
• Schedule IV: Various prescription drugs
• Schedule V: Other less dangerous prescription drugs and small amounts of certain drugs

Penalties are established in ORS 475.752 et seq. and are generally set forth below. Certain penalties are increased if unlawful act is within 1,000 feet of a school.

Marijuana (until July 1, 2015) (affected by Measure 91)

• Delivery for consideration (selling, dealing, or bartering) – Class B Felony (up to 10 years imprisonment and fine up to $250,000 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money)
• Delivery not for consideration (less than 1 oz.) – Class A Misdemeanor (up to one year imprisonment and fine up to $6,250 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money)
• Delivery not for consideration (less than 5 gm.) – violation (specific fine violation with presumptive fine of $650)
• Unlawful Possession (less than 1 oz.) – violation (specific fine violation with presumptive fine of $650)
• Unlawful Possession (more than 1 oz. but less than 4 oz.) – Class B Misdemeanor (up to 6 months imprisonment and fine $2,500 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money)
• Unlawful Possession (more than 4 oz.) – Class C Felony (up to five years imprisonment and fine up to $125,000 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money)

Marijuana Product

• Unlawful Possession (less than 1/4 oz.) – Class B Misdemeanor (up to six months imprisonment and fine up to $2,500 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money)
• Unlawful Possession (1.4 oz. or more) – Class C Felony (up to five years imprisonment and fine up to $125,000 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money)

SCHEDULE I DRUGS

Manufacture or distribution (except marijuana) – Class A Felony (up to 20 years imprisonment and fine up to $375,000 or up to twice the value of resulting gain of property or money)
Unlawful Possession – Class B Felony (up to 10 years imprisonment and fine up to $100,000 or up to twice the value of resulting gain of property or money).

SCHEDULE II DRUGS

Manufacture or distribution – Class B Felony (up to 10 years imprisonment and fine up to $250,000 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money).
Unlawful Possession – Class C Felony (up to five years imprisonment and fine up to $125,000 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money)

SCHEDULE III DRUGS

Manufacture or distribution – Class C Felony (up to five years imprisonment and fine up to $125,000 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money)
Unlawful Possession – Class A Misdemeanor (up to five year imprisonment and fine up to $6,250 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money)

SCHEDULE IV DRUGS

Manufacture or distribution – Class B Misdemeanor (up to six months imprisonment and fine up to $2,500 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money)
Unlawful Possession – Class C Misdemeanor (up to 30 days imprisonment and fine up to $1,250 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money)

SCHEDULE V DRUGS

Manufacture or distribution – Class C Misdemeanor (up to 30 days imprisonment and fine up to $1,250 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money)
Unlawful Possession – Violation (unspecified violations are Class B violations under ORS 153.015 punishable by fine of up to $1,000)

It is unlawful for a person to manufacture or deliver a schedule 1, 2, or 3 controlled substance within 1,000 feet of the real property compromising a public or private elementary, vocational, or secondary school attended by minors This is a Class A felony (up to 20 years imprisonment and fine up to $375,000 or up to twice the value of any resulting gain of property or money).

In addition, the court may order the defendant to pay the cost of prosecution, and the defendant’s vehicle used in the crime may be forfeited to the state. Finally, the defendant may forfeit any property used in the crime to the county in which the crime occurred.

Federal Sanctions

The federal system establishes sanctions for unlawful distribution, possession, manufacture, etcetera, of controlled substances, based on the schedule of the drug and the amount involved. The minimum and maximum statutory penalties are driven by the type and the quantity of the drug involved, but may be increased if the offense involved death or serious bodily injury, or if the offender has a prior conviction for a felony drug offense. The statutory sanctions are also subject to the “Sentencing Guidelines for US Courts.” Imposition of the guidelines may lead to higher offense levels and, thus, more strict penalties than otherwise indicated. Attached is a chart describing the federal penalties and sanctions for illegal trafficking and possession of a controlled substance. In addition to criminal sanctions, the consequences of unlawful or irresponsible alcohol or drug use may include, but are not limited to: 1) Restrictions on future employment opportunities. 2) The loss of Federal Financial Aid (Mandatory for Drug Offenses) 3) Potential risks for injury, including permanent disability 4) The risk of being a victim of a crime and / or committing additional crime(s) 5) The loss of driving privileges 6) Additional sanctions on your educational record and future educational opportunities.

Applicants are reviewed on an ongoing basis when the necessary documents have been received and assembled in the office of admissions. The review process of a completed file typically takes less than two weeks and leads to one of these decisions: acceptance, conditional acceptance, denial.

Acceptance

• Documentation confirms that all prerequisites have been met and evaluation shows the applicant meets all objective and subjective selection criteria.

Conditional Acceptance

• The file includes enough information for the admissions staff to judge that the applicant seems likely soon to meet the standards for acceptance even though some prerequisites still remain to be completed. Full acceptance will subsequently be offered once all conditions have been fulfilled and the student continues to meet the selection standards.

Denial

• The information presented does not meet UWS selection criteria. To put a “denial” in perspective, applicants should carefully read the selection criteria section of the catalog and compare it to their perceptions of their own application. Except in the case where a rejection is the result of failure to meet objective prerequisite minimums, the decision will not be open to discussion. A denied applicant may choose to update their credentials and resubmit an application at a later time. In such cases, candidates are advised to do so only when they have a clear strategy for strengthening their application.

On occasion, even when all necessary documents have been received, some questions may still remain. This situation may arise, for instance, when the amount of completed science coursework at the time of application to the DC program is insufficient for the admissions staff to assess relevant academic strength. In such instances, the applicant will be given opportunity to update his/her file prior to a decision being made.

Provisional Enrollment
Provisional enrollment is intended for applicants who meet the academic admission requirements for a specific UWS program but are missing some of the required admissions materials, which include but are not limited to official transcripts, TOEFL, GRE or MAT test scores, and/or letters of recommendation.

The office of admissions determines academic eligibility for provisional enrollment. Students admitted under provisional enrollment must submit all outstanding items prior to the last day of the first term of enrollment. Provisionally admitted students who do not meet the end-of-quarter deadline will be ineligible to enroll in the next term. Extended deficiency may lead to dismissal from the university. See Policy 2008 – Provisional Enrollment for details.

Tuition Deposits
When an offer of acceptance is made, applicants are expected to pay a non-refundable tuition deposit in order to secure a space in that entering class. The tuition deposit is applied toward the first term’s tuition. If the deposit is not received or arrangements made with the admissions office by the stated deadline, the offer of acceptance may be withdrawn.

Deferment or Transfer of Entry Date
When an applicant is offered acceptance, it is for a specific entering class. Written requests to transfer the acceptance to a different entry date are considered on a case-by-case basis. If approved, the student will be expected to pay a non-refundable deferment deposit that will be recorded as additional credit toward the student’s tuition for his/her first enrolled term.

Criminal Record
All applicants and enrolled students must reveal any criminal record and cooperate by providing full information for review as it may pertain to the health professions program and licensure. Following the guidelines of the professional licensing agencies, UWS holds that felony convictions – and certain non-felony convictions – are probable grounds for denial of admission or of continued enrollment. In some instances, a criminal record may also disqualify a student from financial aid eligibility, in accordance with federal student aid regulations.

Readmission
Under Policy 2006 – Readmission, an individual who has withdrawn, taken an unauthorized leave of absence, failed to return from an authorized leave of absence as agreed, failed to enroll in courses, or been dismissed may apply for readmission. The student must submit an application, with the required application fee, and meet the admission and degree requirements at the time of readmission. The request for readmission must address the events associated with the lapse, a critical analysis of these events, and a plan to ensure that similar actions will not reoccur should the individual be readmitted. The Admissions Committee will consider the merits of an application for readmission and make a recommendation to the vice president of enrollment. The readmission application should include:

• Completed application
• Petition for readmission explaining the student’s circumstance
• Official transcripts not already on file with the office of admissions
• Application fee
• At least one UWS faculty member recommendation

If a student is accepted for readmission, special terms and restrictions may be applied. Restrictions may include, but are not limited to, the courses which will be accepted back into the program toward degree credit, or the student may have limited access to financial aid for repeating course work previously attempted.

Appeal of the outcomes of the readmission process must be, in writing, to the vice president of enrollment, whose decision is final. There is no obligation on the part of the university to readmit any individual to a program from which he/she has withdrawn or been dismissed, or who has voluntarily withdrawn from a university program.

University of Western States offers equal opportunity to all persons without regard to race, color, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, national citizenship, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected classes. This applies to all UWS policies and programs. Policy 1013 – Equal Opportunity and Non-discrimination.

Pursuant to university Policies 1013 and 2001, University of Western States admits students of any race, color, nationality, ethnic origin, sex or age to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the university. Find out more about this policy and how you can handle inquiries.

Notice of Non-Discrimination Policy

University of Western States admits students of any race, color, nationality, ethnic origin, sex or age to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the university. University of Western States does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its administration of programs, activities or employment practices. The following have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:

Associate Vice President, Student and University Affairs and Title IX Coordinator
8000 NE Tillamook St.
Portland, OR 97213
ehowells@test.uws.edu
971-499-9257

Director of Human Resources
8000 NE Tillamook St.
Portland, OR 97213
humanresources@test.uws.edu
503-847-2557

Diversity
UWS seeks to enroll a diverse student body, to reach out to students from underrepresented groups, to promote gender balance in its programs, and to assure the university and health professions are strengthened through contributions from the different socio-economic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds that reflect modern society.

Additionally, in pursuit of its goal of academic excellence, UWS is committed to maintaining a campus climate that recognizes and values diversity. Each member of the UWS community has a responsibility to support a pluralistic, inclusive campus in which to work, study, teach, research, and serve.

UWS protects the privacy of student academic records in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) and its amendments. For more information, see Policy 1232 – Student Record Privacy. 

Student Directory Information

UWS may be required by law to provide directory information in accordance with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Information pursuant to legally required disclosure will be limited to the extent required by law. The university shall make a good faith effort to notify individuals who have had FERPA-protected information disclosed under this requirement.

Directory information may include: student name, address, telephone number, email address, date and place of birth, photograph, dates of attendance, enrollment status, degrees and awards received, and most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by student. Any student who does not wish to disclose his/her information must notify the registrar in writing. The office of the registrar or student affairs can provide appropriate forms to opt out of specific information disclosures.

Record Review

Under FERPA, students have the right to inspect and review information contained in their education records, to challenge the contents of their education records, to have a hearing if the outcome of the challenge is unsatisfactory, and to submit explanatory statements for inclusion in their files if they disagree with the outcome of the hearing. Information on how to request a review of records or to initiate a hearing process is available in the office of the registrar.

Transcript Requests

University of Western States provides official and unofficial transcripts upon receipt of a signed, written request to the office of the registrar. The Transcript Request form may be found here. Requests for official transcripts must be accompanied by payment in the form of check, cash, or charge in the amount of the current transcript fee (also posted on the website). Official transcripts bear the registrar’s signature and UWS seal.

Requests for transcripts will be honored only when the student or graduate is in good financial standing (has no indebtedness the university). Policy 1237 – Transcripts

UWS Assistance in Applying for Licensure Examinations

Licenses, certifications, or applications pursuant to practice eligibility may necessitate assistance by the university, particularly the registrar’s office. These processes often require institutional verifications or other information. Students are encouraged to communicate with the registrar far in advance of posted deadlines in order to ensure that necessary filings, materials, and other requirements are met.

The office of the registrar is available to assist DC program students in the proper completion of NBCE applications, which require official certification by the registrar, notary certification of identity, and a current photograph. The university generally arranges a date and time, in advance of the application deadline, in which these requirements can be completed.

Immunizations

Under Policy 9010 – Student Immunizations, and in conformity with state and federal legislation, the university enforces the immunization requirements for measles and hepatitis-B. More details on this requirement are available through the office of student services.

By submitting your information to University of Western States as my electronic signature and submitting a form by clicking the Request Info button, I agree to the UWS privacy policy and practices, and I provide my express written consent to representatives of University of Western States and The Community Solution Education System to contact me about educational opportunities, and to send phone calls, and/or SMS/Text Messages – using automated technology, including automatic dialing system and pre-recorded and artificial voice messages – to the phone numbers (including cellular), physical address(es), and email address(es) I have provided. I confirm that the information provided on this form is accurate and complete. I also understand that certain degree programs may not be available in all states. Message and data rates may apply.

Return of Title IV (Federal) Funds
If you withdraw from the university and have received financial aid, any refundable amount of your institutional charges (tuition and fees and/or university housing costs) may be returned to the appropriate financial aid sources. You may be expected to repay the “unearned” portion of your financial aid if you withdraw from school or receive any combination of Y/W/N/F grades in all courses in a particular term. You are also required to complete exit counseling.

Review Policy 3805 Return of Title IV Funds for more information.

Student Rights

As a student consumer you have the right to:

• know what financial assistance is available, including information on all federal, state, and institutional financial assistance programs;
• know the deadlines for submitting applications for each of the financial assistance programs available;
• know how your financial need is determined. This process includes how costs for tuition and fees, room and board, travel, books and supplies, and personal expenses are decided in developing cost of attendance budgets;
• know what resources (such as parental contribution, other financial assistance, student assets, etc.) are considered in the calculation of your financial need;
• know how much of your financial need, as determined by the University, has been met;
• request from the Office of Financial Aid, an explanation of the various programs in your student aid package. If you believe you have not received the financial assistance for which you are eligible, you may request reconsideration of the award which was made;
• know what portion of the financial assistance received must be repaid, and what portion is grant aid. If the aid is a loan, you have the right to know what the interest rate is, the total amount that must be repaid, the payback procedures, the length of time you have to repay the loan, and when repayment is to begin; and
• know how the Office of Financial Aid determines whether you are making satisfactory academic progress, and what happens if you are not.

Student Responsibilities

It is your responsibility to:

• review and consider all information about the financial aid programs at the University prior to enrolling;
• complete all financial assistance applications and forms accurately, and submit them to the Office of Financial Aid by the appropriate deadlines;
• fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Renewal FAFSA completely because it determines your eligibility for a wide variety of financial assistance. You may experience delays in receiving a decision about financial aid if forms are filled out incompletely or incorrectly. Falsification of information on application forms for federal financial assistance is considered a criminal offense, and you may be subject to penalties under the U.S. Criminal Code;
• respond quickly to all requests for additional documentation related to verification or corrections;
• notify the Office of Financial Aid if there is a change in any of the information reported on the FAFSA;
• read and understand all forms that you are asked to submit or sign, and keep copies of these forms. You are legally responsible for all agreements which you sign;
• notify your lender of any changes in your name, address, or school status if a loan is part of your financial aid;
• know and comply with the University’s refund procedures, should you withdraw from the University;
• comply with Statement of Financial Responsibility and make arrangements to pay an outstanding balance, and;
• be formally admitted to the University of Western States in a degree or certificate-seeking program.

UWS requires students, depending on the course of study in which they are engaged, to demonstrate the physical, cognitive, emotional/professional, and social capacity to be a competent practitioner in their discipline. The demonstration of capacity begins at the onset of their program and evolves throughout their educational process to the end point of being a sound, competent practitioner.

Students should review the technical standards that apply to the educational program in which they intend to enroll and ensure they are able to meet the standards (with or without reasonable accommodations) of that program. See Policy 1206 – Technical Standards for requirements.

If students demonstrate documented need for accommodation in any of these areas, the university will determine the extent to which it can reasonably accommodate the student’s needs. Regardless of disability status or accommodation, all students must successfully complete the requirements of their program.

University of Western States makes a good faith effort to distribute a mail voter registration form (for federal elections and state elections for governor or other state chief executive) to each student enrolled in a degree or certificate program and physically in attendance at the school.

We make the voter registration form widely available to students at the school, with forms in the administration building and the office of student affairs. We request the forms from the state 120 days prior to the deadline for registering to vote within the state.

Furthermore, we host campus visits from non-profit organizations who assist students in registering to vote and in verifying and updating their voter registration information.

Our responsibility is to ensure patient/student safety and confidentiality.

This website (site) is offered by University of Western States (UWS) for general information, education and communication purposes only.

UWS endeavors to make certain that the information contained in this site is accurate. However, UWS cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information. Therefore, this site is provided without warranty or guarantee of any kind, whether express or implied, including without limitation warranty of title or infringement, or the implied warranty of marketability or fitness for a particular purpose.

UWS shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, special, exemplary, punitive, or any other monetary or other damages, fees, fines, penalties, or liabilities arising out of or relating in any way to this site or sites accessed through this site, and/or content or information provided on this site.

Links to other websites are provided on this site. These linked website are not controlled or endorsed by UWS.

The contents of UWS websites, blogs, and social media channels are for general informational purposes only and are not intended to be medical advice or a substitute for professional medical advice, consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your qualified heath care professionals with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your individual needs and any medical conditions. Never disregard, avoid obtaining or delay obtaining professional health care advice or treatment because of something you have read on the UWS websites, blogs or social media. Reliance on any information appearing herein, whether provided by UWS, its content providers, or others, is solely at your own risk.

None of the information on this site or that you might access through this site may be understood as a representation or warranty that any particular drug or treatment is safe, appropriate or effective. Any information that you might access on or through this site may not be accurate or up-to-date.

If you need medical diagnosis or treatment, please contact your qualified health care provider. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Website Profiles

Persons who submit their photo and profile to UWS for use on the website are giving UWS permission to post their photo and words.

Privacy Statement

UWS is committed to privacy. It is important that users of this site understand that you can usually visit this site without submitting any personal information. If you send UWS email, respond to a survey, subscribe to an online publication or complete an online form, then UWS will have access to the information you submitted. As a general rule, UWS does not track individual visitor profiles. UWS does, however, analyze aggregate traffic/access information for operational purposes. UWS does not share this information with any outside organization. However, due to the nature of electronic communication, UWS cannot and does not provide any assurance that the content of your email will not become known or accessible to third parties. Any confidential information about you or your health that you provide to us via electronic communication is done at your own risk.

The Information UWS Collects

When you access the official UWS website, certain access information described below is automatically collected. No other information is collected through the UWS website except when you deliberately send it to UWS (for example, by completing and sending an online form or by clicking a link to send us an email).

When you submit personal information through UWS website online forms or any other means, UWS will use this information to process your requests. UWS will not intentionally sell, share, or distribute your personal information to third parties, except as required by law or university policy.

Access Information (automatically collected)

Client information: the Internet domain and Internet address of the computer you are using.

Technical information: identification of the page or service you are requesting, type of browser and operating system you are using; and the date and time of access, the Internet address of the website from which you linked directly to our website, and the “cookie information” used to direct and tailor information based on your entry path to the site.

Essential and nonessential technical information lets UWS respond to your request in an appropriate format [or in a personalized manner] and helps the university plan website improvements. To expedite this process, some official UWS webpages use “cookies.” Usually a cookie enables UWS to tailor what you see according to the way you entered the site. UWS also uses non-identifying and aggregate information to better design its website. For example, UWS may determine that X number of individuals visited a certain area on our website, or that Y number of men and Z number of women filled out a particular registration form. However, UWS does not disclose information that could identify those specific individuals.

Google Analytics Data

This site may utilize integrated services that require Google Analytics to collect data via advertising cookies and anonymous identifiers including the following: Remarketing with Google Analytics, Google Display Network Impression Reporting, and Google Analytics Demographics and Interest Reporting. This site may use data from Google’s Interest-based advertising or third-party audience data or any information acquired in relation to your visiting this site for any legal purpose, including quality improvement (e.g., expansion of Google Custom Search Engine annotations for Law Firm Search Engine). Visitors may opt-out of Google Analytics for Display Advertising and customize Google Display Network ads using currently available opt-outs for the web.

Google and other third-party vendors may display this site’s advertisements on other websites.

Optional information (deliberately sent)

Email: your name, email address and the content of your email.

Online forms: all the information that you choose to fill in or confirm. This may include credit or debit card information if you are ordering a product or making a payment, as well as information about other people if you are providing it for delivery purposes, etc.

Live chat: all the information that you choose to fill in or confirm. This may include information about other people if you are providing it for delivery purposes, etc.

How To Contact Us

For further information, you can contact the webmaster. Should you have other questions or concerns about these privacy policies and practices, please call 800-641-5641.