Clinical Education Disciplinary Procedures

Students who fail to comply with the policies in this manual during the program and clinical practicums, or act in an “unprofessional manner,” are subject to disciplinary action in proportion to the incidence of violations and the severity of their actions. These disciplinary actions, in order of severity, are as follows:

Level 1: Verbal reminder by the Clinical Instructor (Academic Advisement Form will be completed).

Level 2: Repeated infractions (more than one), or a single serious infraction will affect the student’s grade at the discretion of the Clinical Instructor or DCE in consultation with the Program Director.

Level 3: Instances of serious or repeated infractions may warrant a temporary dismissal of the student from the clinic. The dismissal period will have to be made up by the student prior to securing a grade or applying for graduation.

Level 4: Failure of a Clinical Course, due to serious or repeated violations of Program Policies and Procedures or continued safety concerns, is an option available to the Clinical Instructor in consultation with the DCE and Program Director.

Level 5: Recommendation of dismissal from the Physical Therapist Assistant Program may be considered in extreme cases of misconduct or failure to follow safety protocols or measures. The recommendation for dismissal would be made to the Program Director.

If any student believes a clinical faculty member or core faculty member has dealt with him or her unfairly, this should be brought to the attention of 1) the clinical/faculty member. If the situation continues, according to the student, then 2) the DCE will examine the situation, who in turn will consult with the Program Director.

If any student is not satisfied, the student should follow the grievance procedure established in the University Catalog.