School of Rural Public Health

STUDENT HANDBOOK

2011-2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 6 DISCLAIMER AND WAIVER NOTIFICATIONS

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY

PROGRAMS

CURRICULAR GOALS & OBJECTIVES 7

PROGRAM OVERVIEWS 7

MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH PROGRAMS (MPH)

CORE COMPETENCIES 9

LEARNING OBJECTIVES BY DEGREE PROGRAM & CONCENTRATIONS 9

Biostatistics 9

Epidemiology 10

Environmental Health 10

Health Policy & Management 10

Social & Behavioral Health 11

RESEARCH & DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS – (M.S.P.H. & Dr.P.H.)

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PUBLIC HEALTH (M.S.P.H.)

Biostatistics 12

Epidemiology 12

Environmental Health 12

Occupational Health 13

Health Policy & Management 13

Social & Behavioral Health 14

DOCTOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH (DR.P.H.)

Epidemiology & Environmental Health 15

Social & Behavioral Health 15

ACADEMIC REGULATIONS

ATTENDANCE & ABSENTEEISM POLICIES

AUTHORIZED TO ATTEND CLASS 16

HOLIDAYS 16

RELIGIOUS HOLY DAYS 16

CHANGE OF DEPARTMENT, CONCENTRATION, DEGREE PROGRAM 17

COURSEWORK & RECORDS

CORE COURSE SUBSTITUTIONS 18

CONCENTRATION COURSE SUBSTITUTIONS 18

COURSE SCHEDULES 18

REGISTRATION 18

DEGREE PLANS 18

CO-ENROLLING AT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY 19

COURSE EVALUATION PROCESS 19

GRADES

GRADE POINT AVERAGE CALCULATIONS & MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS 19

GRADE DISTRIBUTION & PRIVACY ISSUES 20

ACCESS TO GRADES 20

IN PROGRESS GRADES 20

ACADEMIC STANDING

GOOD ACADEMIC STANDING 21

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY & DISHONESTY ISSUES 21

SUSPENSION, DISMISSAL & EXPULSION 21

PROFESSIONALISM

HONESTY 22

RESEARCH 22

CRITICISM OF COLLEAGUES 22

PROFESSIONAL DEMEANOR & APPEARANCE 22

DISRUPTION IN THE CLASSROOM 22

SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY 23

STUDENT CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS & DRUG SCREENING 23

AWARDS & HONORS

GRADUATING WITH HONORS 24

DELTA OMEGA HONOR SOCIETY 24

DEPARTMENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 24

DEAN’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE 25

RESEARCH AWARD 25

CULMINATING EXPERIENCES

PUBLIC HEALTH CAPSTONE COURSE (M.P.H. Degree Program) 26 PRACTICUM EXPERIENCE (M.P.H. Degree Program) 26 THESIS & DISSERTATION SUBMISSION (M.S.P.H. & Dr.P.H. Degree Programs) 26

GRADUATION 26

SPRING COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY 26

CLASS RING 26

STUDENT SERVICES

TAMU SERVICES PROVIDED TO SRPH STUDENTS 27

COUNSELING (General, Personal, Special Services & Accommodations) 28

HSC DIVISION OF STUDENT SERVICES 29

THE ROLE OF THE REGISTRAR (FERPA) 29

CAREER SERVICES 29

STUDENT LIFE ISSUES

UNIVERSAL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (UIN) 30

GRADUATE STUDENT INSURANCE 30

TRAVEL SAFETY GUIDELINES 30

STUDENT SAFETY & BUILDING HOURS 30

PARKING & TRANSPORTATION ISSUES 30

USE OF PHONE, FAX MACHINES, PRINTERS & COPIERS 30

COMPUTER LAB PRINTNG QUOTA 30

COMPUTER ACCESS 30

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS & COMMITTEES 31

RECOGNITION & APPROVAL PROCESS 32

Required Documentation for Proposal

Required Review & Approval for a New Student Organization

RECOGNIZED SRPH STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS 33

Rural Public Health Student Association (RPHSA)

Epidemiology Student Organization (ESO)

Association for Future Healthcare Leaders (AFHL)

Medical Group Management Association (MGMA)

Social & Behavioral Student Organization (SBSO)

American Society of Safety Engineers (S-ASSE)

APPENDIX - CONTACT INFORMATION 34

1

INTRODUCTION

The Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Rural Public Health operates in accordance with the

general regulations of the Texas A&M System University (TAMUS) and those of the Health Science

Center (HSC). In addition, the School of Rural Public Health has established its own policies and

procedures consistent with these general regulations. Policies within the School of Rural Public Health

are set forth in the HSC Catalog and within this handbook, and establish certain rules with regard to

evaluation, advancement, and discipline suitable to the requirements applicable to students pursuing

degree programs (M.P.H., M.S.P.H., M.H.A., Dr.P.H., and Ph.D.). Unique services provided by the

School of Rural Public Health for its students are also outlined. Students have the responsibility to be

fully acquainted with and to comply with the Texas A&M Health Science Center and the School of Rural

Public Health regulations, policies and procedures.

This edition of the Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Rural Public Health Student Handbook

is complete as of August 1, 2011. Additions, deletions and changes may occur after this date without prior

notification (although email announcements are usually sent to students as changes occur). The Student

Handbook and relevant updates once approved are available at “MyHSC > Student Services > College-

Specific Information”.

Disclaimer and Waiver Notifications Every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of information in this publication. Nevertheless, the Texas A&M

Health Science Center reserves the right to amend or add to the academic policies and scholastic regulations at any

time, provided that such changes or additions are intended to improve the quality of education and are introduced in

a fair and deliberate manner with appropriate notice provided to all students affected by the changes. The

TAMHSC School of Rural Public Health reserves the right to change without prior notice: admission and degree

requirements, curriculum, courses, teaching personnel, rules, regulations, tuition, fees, and any other matter

described in this handbook. This handbook does not constitute a contract, expressed or implied, between any student

or faculty member and the Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Rural Public Health. The School at all

times retains the right to dismiss any student who does not attain and maintain adequate academic performance or

who does not exhibit the personal and professional qualifications required for public health professionals. Any of

the policies contained within this Student Handbook related to student progress in a degree program or graduation

may be waived (only if consistent with existing HSC or TAMUS policy) following review and written approval by the

student’s faculty advisor (for currently enrolled students), the relevant department head(s), the Associate Dean for

Academic Affairs, and the Dean (or designee). It is the responsibility of each student enrolled in SRPH to know

current academic policies and scholastic regulations, general and specific requirements, and operational policies

that apply to registration and instruction.

Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy The Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Rural Public Health, in compliance with applicable federal laws

and regulations, is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of

race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or

procedures. This includes, but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid and educational services.

Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies may be directed to the HSC Human Resources Officer by phone at

(979) 458-7280 or by mail at 301 Tarrow, 6th Floor, College Station, TX 77840. The School of Rural Public Health

does not discriminate on the basis of an individual’s handicap and complies with Section 504 in its admission,

accessibility, treatment, and employment of students in its programs and activities. The School of Rural Public

Health provides academic adjustments and auxiliary aids to students with handicapping conditions, as defined

under the law, who are otherwise qualified to meet the institution’s academic requirements. The Office of Services

for Students with Disabilities on the campus of Texas A&M University coordinates efforts for the benefit of the

individuals covered under the statute. For additional information, contact the office at (979) 845-1637.

2

PROGRAMS

CURRICULAR GOALS & OBJECTIVES

Public health in general and rural public health in particular, must always be responsive to

scientific developments, changing practice patterns and evolving societal needs. As part of the

ongoing process of monitoring and upgrading the rural public health curriculum of the

TAMHSC-SRPH, the curricular goals and objectives described in this document have been

established to reflect changing parameters. Brief program overviews for each of the five core

disciplines in public health are provided below, followed by summaries of learning objectives for

the core curriculum for the professional degree programs (i.e., MPH and MHA), and finally the

learning objectives for each concentration area by degree program.

PROGRAM OVERVIEWS

Biostatistics: The goal of the Biostatistics Program within the Department of Epidemiology and

Biostatistics is to prepare students for research or practice in academia or numerous public or

private health arenas. Both the M.S.P.H. and the M.P.H. degree programs provide students

sufficient theoretical background, necessary technical data management and analytic skills, and

requisite applied experience in order to be able to succeed in analytical careers in public health.

Coursework for students in biostatistics relies heavily on courses offered within the Department

of Statistics at the Texas A&M University, one of the top-ranked statistics programs in the

country. Through both the biostatistics faculty within SRPH and joint appointed faculty from the

Department of Statistics at Texas A&M University, students are afforded a high quality

education in statistical methods while focusing on public health and health services problems. In

addition, the curriculum for students in biostatistics reflects a broad exposure to public health

through coursework in other core disciplines within public health. Students completing this

program should be able to function as a staff biostatistician whether in industrial, public health,

clinical, or academic settings.

Environmental & Occupational Health: Educational and research activities within the

Department of Environmental and Occupational Health focus on the health effects of exposures

to air and water pollution, pesticides, organic solvents, and dusts and physical hazards, which

occur in the environment, the home or the workplace. Degree program concentrations offered

within the department focus on basic principles of environmental toxicology, methods of human

and ecological health risk assessment, and specific diseases associated with environmental or

occupational exposures. In addition, coursework on industrial hygiene and occupational safety

provide information on exposure assessment, workplace monitoring, and disease and injury

prevention. The concentrations in the M.P.H. and M.S.P.H. degree programs within the

Department of Environmental and Occupational Health reflect a commitment to education,

scientific research, and service. In addition to acquiring an understanding of the principals of

environmental and occupational health, students within the department also develop an

appreciation of the integral relationship between environmental and occupational health and

other core disciplines within public health.

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Epidemiology: Historically, epidemiology is the foundation science for public health and

addresses the distribution and determinants of health and disease in human populations. The

field of Epidemiology is both a body of research methods and a body of knowledge in specific

areas of epidemiology including cardiovascular, cancer, infectious, occupational, environmental,

social, genetic, and molecular to name some of the specialty areas. Given the importance of

considering epidemiology as a body of research methods and content, the concentrations in

epidemiology provide students with essential methodological skills as well as exposure to the

special issues, methods, and knowledge base of various areas of specialization. The programs of

study are designed to provide students with the skills needed to plan for, collect, manage,

analyze, and interpret a variety of quantitative health data. Graduates are thus prepared for both

research and practice in a range of academic, public or private public health arenas. Students

acquire expertise necessary to design and implement basic and applied research in disease

etiology, control and prevention.

Health Policy & Management: Health Policy & Management: The emphasis on health

reform in the United States underscores the critical need for professionals with strong health

policy and management education. The Department of Health Policy and Management is

committed to educating leaders who understand the workings and impact of health policy and

who can bring leadership and management skills to bring about needed changes in health care

delivery and public health. The M.P.H. in Health Policy and Management provides students

with broad exposure to the core public health disciplines along with management skills and

knowledge of health policy. Students leave the program prepared to take on significant

responsibilities in both private and public sector public health or health care delivery. The

M.H.A. degree is designed to develop effective health care leaders engaged directly in the

management of health delivery systems. Both the MPH and MHA degrees emphasize student

achievement of leadership competencies defined by the National Center for Healthcare

Leadership and competencies in public health defined by the Association of School of Public

Health. The PhD and MSPH degrees are designed to prepare students for careers in research

settings in universities, government institute, and private research enterprises where investigators

address important health services issues.

Social & Behavioral Health: Since the mid-1970s, professionals in both public health and

medicine have explicitly recognized the significant contributions of behavioral factors in the

health and well-being of individuals, communities, and populations. More recent attention has

been devoted to health disparities and the role of economic, gender, class, and ethnic group

membership in health risk. Thus, the goal of the Department of Social and Behavioral Health is

to focus not only on behavioral risk factors, but also on the role of social structural factors and

how they interact with behavior to affect health risks. Common across both concentrations

within PHSB is exposure to the breadth of social and behavioral determinants of health in an

effort to prepare students for professional roles in health promotion and disease prevention,

community development, assessment, program evaluation, and research. The primary objective

of the two M.P.H. concentrations within the department (i.e., community public health and

management, and social and behavioral health) is to provide students with knowledge and skills

to plan, develop, implement, monitor, and evaluate a broad range of public health interventions

across social ecological levels. The M.S.P.H. provides students with tools to engage in scientific

inquiry into the effectiveness and impact of social and behavioral public health interventions.

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MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH PROGRAMS

CORE COMPETENCIES: At the conclusion of the student’s educational experience, s/he will

be able to:

1. monitor health status of a community;

2. diagnose and investigate health problems and hazards;

3. inform and educate people about health issues;

4. organize community resources to address health problems;

5. develop strategies to facilitate health improvement efforts;

6. develop and enforce policies, laws and regulations that protect health and ensure safety;

7. manage organizations and implement programs that ensure provision of services meeting

health needs;

8. evaluate health policies and practices;

9. conduct research investigating health issues; and

10. acquire and manage resources necessary to improve the health of the public.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES BY DEGREE PROGRAM AND CONCENTRATION: Many

of the objectives outlined below were first identified as core competencies for public health

professionals by a subcommittee within the Association of Schools of Public Health (Clark,

2001) or the Council on Linkages between Academia and Public Health Practice project.

SRPH’s core curriculum, outlined across six core courses, is based on public health

competencies which are in keeping with the Association of Schools of Public Health (ASPH) and

Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).

BIOSTATISTICS

Upon completion of an M.P.H. with a concentration in Biostatistics, a student will be able to:

1. describe the roles biostatistics serves in the discipline of public health;

2. describe basic concepts of probability, random variation and commonly used statistical

probability distributions;

3. describe preferred methodological alternatives to commonly used statistical methods

when assumptions are not met;

4. distinguish among the different measurements scales and the implications for selection of

statistical methods to be used based on these distinctions;

5. apply descriptive techniques commonly used to summarize public health data;

6. apply common statistical methods for inference;

7. apply descriptive and inferential methodologies according to the type of study design for

answering a particular research question;

8. apply basic informatics techniques with vital statistics and public health records in the

description of public health characteristics and in public health research and evaluation;

9. interpret results of statistical analyses found in public health studies;

10. develop written and oral presentations based on statistical analyses for both public health

professionals and educated lay audiences;

5

EPIDEMIOLOGY

Upon completion of an M.P.H. with a concentration in Epidemiology, the student will be able to:

1. identify key sources of data for epidemiologic purposes;

2. identify the principles and limitations of public health screening programs;

3. describe a public health problem in terms of magnitude, person, time and place;

4. explain the importance of epidemiology for informing scientific, ethical, economic and

political discussion of health issues;

5. comprehend basic ethical and legal principles pertaining to the collection, maintenance,

use and dissemination of epidemiologic data;

6. apply the basic terminology and definitions of epidemiology;

7. calculate basic epidemiology measures;

8. communicate epidemiologic information to lay and professional audiences;

9. draw appropriate inferences from epidemiologic data;

10. evaluate the strengths and limitations of epidemiologic reports.

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

Upon completion of an M.P.H. with a concentration in Environmental Health, a student will be

able to:

1. describe the direct and indirect human, ecological and safety effects of major

environmental and occupational agents;

2. describe genetic, physiologic and psychosocial factors that affect susceptibility to adverse

health outcomes following exposure to environmental hazards;

3. describe federal and state regulatory programs, guidelines and authorities that control

environmental health issues;

4. specify current environmental risk assessment methods;

5. specify approaches for assessing, preventing and controlling environmental hazards that

pose risks to human health and safety;

6. explain the general mechanisms of toxicity in eliciting a topic response to various

environmental exposures;

7. discuss various risk management and risk communication approaches in relations to

issues of environmental justice and equity.

HEALTH POLICY & MANAGEMENT

Upon completion of a M.P.H. with a concentration in Health Policy & Management, a student

will be able to:

1. identify the main components and issues of the organization, financing and delivery of

health services and public health systems in the U.S.;

2. describe the legal and ethical bases for public health and health services;

3. explain methods of ensuring community health safety and preparedness;

4. discuss the policy process for improving the health status of populations;

5. apply the principles of program planning, development, budgeting, management and

evaluation in organizational and community initiatives;

6. apply principles of strategic planning and marketing to public health;

6

7. apply quality and performance improvement concepts to address organizational

performance issues;

8. apply “systems thinking” for resolving organizational problems;

9. communicate health policy and management issues using appropriate channels and

technologies.

SOCIAL & BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

Upon completion of an M.P.H. degree with a concentration in Social & Behavioral Health, a

student will be able to:

1. identify basic theories, concepts and models from a range of social and behavioral

disciplines that are used in public health research and practice;

2. identify the causes of social and behavioral factors that affect health of individuals and

populations;

3. identify individual, organizational and community concerns, assets, resources and deficits

for social and behavioral science interventions;

4. identify critical stakeholders for the planning, implementation and evaluation of public

health programs, policies and interventions;

5. describe steps and procedures for the planning, implementation and evaluation of public

health programs, policies and interventions;

6. describe the role of social and community factors in both the onset and solution of public

health problems;

7. describe the merits of social and behavioral science interventions and policies;

8. apply the evidence-based approaches in the development and evaluation of social and

behavioral science interventions;

9. apply ethical principles to public health program planning, implementation and

evaluation;

10. specify multiple targets and levels of intervention for social and behavioral science

programs and/or policies.

7

RESEARCH AND DOCTORAL DEGREES (M.S.P.H. & DR.P.H.)

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PUBLIC HEALTH (M.S.P.H.)

Biostatistics

Upon completion of an M.S.P.H. degree, with a concentration in Biostatistics, the student will be

able to:

1. use a range of tools in analytical problem solving, decision making, and evaluation in

public health issues;

2. demonstrate an understanding of biostatistical theory and its application;

3. apply biostatistical methods to public health data; and

4. apply biostatistical methods in collaboration with other health professionals.

Epidemiology

Upon completion of an M.S.P.H. degree, with a concentration in Epidemiology, the student will

be able to:

1. define, assess and understand the health status of populations, determinants of health and

illness, and factors contributing to health promotion and disease prevention;

2. apply data collection and maintenance processes and computer systems storage/retrieval

strategies;

3. discuss the role of epidemiology in developing, implementing and evaluating public

health policy; and

4. identify the vectors and characteristics of the most important common infectious diseases

and predictors of the most common chronic diseases.

Environmental Health

Upon completion of an M.S.P.H. degree, with a concentration in Environmental Health, the

student will be able to:

1. identify sources of exposure and potential causes of environmental & occupational

disease;

2. obtain all necessary information and perform calculations for a human or ecological risk

assessment;

3. recognize methods for evaluating and preventing occupational exposures and work-

related injury;

4. communicate to the general public information obtained from exposure assessments or

risk characterization; and

5. design, execute, report and defend a publishable thesis research project.

8

Occupational Health

Upon completion of an M.S.P.H. degree, with a concentration in Occupational Health, the

student will be able to:

1. identify sources of exposure and potential causes of occupational injury and illness;

2. obtain all necessary information and perform calculations related to a safety or ergonomic

related assessment;

3. recognize methods for evaluating and preventing occupational exposures and work-

related injuries;

4. communicate to the general public information obtained from exposure assessments or

risk characterization; and

5. design, execute, report and defend a publishable thesis research project.

Health Policy & Management

Upon completion of an M.S.P.H. degree, with a concentration in Health Policy & Management,

the student will be able to:

1. describe the history and core functions of public health, major policies and organizations

focused on public health at all governmental levels, and voluntary organizations and

coalitions pursuing public health;

2. explain the health continuum, prevention, services, and treatment components, and the

policy and practice defined roles and functions of health services organizations and

professionals associated with health service delivery;

3. recognize the place of health services research in the more general world of public health

research and scientific inquiry more generally;

4. translate issues surrounding public health problems into research questions that can be

addressed through health services research;

5. identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative research strategies that can be used in

health services research to address public health issues;

6. identify the strengths and weaknesses of different types of data in health services

research;

7. operationalize concepts in the field of public health and health services research (e.g.,

risk, quality of care, access) for the purposes of research;

8. select and use the statistical techniques appropriate for answering different research

questions in health services research;

9. manipulate health-related data using standard statistical packages (e.g., SAS, SPSS);

10. apply ethical principles to all aspects of the research enterprise; and

11. communicate research results effectively, orally and in written form, to a variety of

audiences.

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Social & Behavioral Health

Upon completion of an M.S.P.H. degree, with a concentration in Social & Behavioral Health,

the student will be able to:

1. recognize personal, professional and social values, and how they interact in the planning,

implementation and evaluation of public health programs; and demonstrate professionally

ethical practices;

2. employ effective communication strategies and skills;

3. demonstrate the ability to work effectively with diverse populations;

4. design and implement individual, group, organizational and community assessments to

identify public health related assets, resources, needs and concerns;

5. demonstrate the capability to develop a theory-based and practical intervention plan for

addressing individual, group, organization or community public health needs;

6. demonstrate the capacity to implement a program plan for addressing public health

issues;

7. demonstrate the ability to collect and use appropriate information for program planning,

implementation and outcome evaluation;

8. design, execute, report and defend a publishable thesis research project.

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DOCTOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH (Dr.P.H.)

Upon completion of a Dr.P.H. degree in Epidemiology and Environmental Health, the student

will be able to:

1. understand the basic concepts and methods of epidemiology and apply them to the study

of environmentally/occupationally-related diseases and injuries;

2. identify issues of uncertainty and bias in epidemiology studies;

3. identify sources of exposure and potential causes of environmental/occupational disease

and illness;

4. recognize methods for evaluating and preventing environmental/occupational exposures

and illness and injury;

5. understand and apply a range of biostatistical methods in gathering and analyzing

epidemiology and environmental/occupational health data.

DOCTOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH (Dr.P.H.)

Upon completion of a D.P.H. degree in Social and Behavioral Health, the student will be able

to:

1. plan, implement, and evaluate social and behavioral interventions designed to improve

individual, community, and population health status;

2. clearly articulate conceptual basis for understanding the context and key factors

associated with health and public health problems;

3. identify breath of social and behavioral determinants of health and public health

problems;

4. understand the theoretical foundations and change strategies for addressing critical public

health issues;

5. demonstrate expertise in a particular population, setting or public health problem;

6. relate social and behavioral health issues to at least one other public health discipline;

7. demonstrate research skills in identifying problem, delineating theory of the problem,

selecting appropriate design and analytical approaches, analyzing data, and interpreting

results;

8. prepare reports and scholarly presentations and participate in conference presentations in

order to appropriately influence relevant state-of-the-art practice;

9. work in interdisciplinary teams and develop campus-community partnerships;

10. submit grant applications to support proposed research and practice activities;

11. assume professional research and practice roles in health promotion and disease

prevention, community development, program planning and evaluation.

Students will also participate in appropriate instructional activities, professional organizations,

and other profession and/or community-linked exercises in order to prepare for their professional

careers. The Dr. P.H. student is expected to develop conceptual and methodological skills to

develop expertise and leadership in research, practice and teaching as s./he progresses through

the program.

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ACADEMIC REGULATIONS

ATTENDANCE AND ABSENTEEISM POLICIES

Attendance and participation in all courses are the responsibility of each student. Attendance

requirements may vary with each instructor/department. In general, absences are allowed and it

is understood that, on occasion, legitimate reasons occur. It is the responsibility of the student to

negotiate absence from class with the individual instructor. Documentation for absence due to

illness may be requested. In extreme medical emergency situation, if the student or his/her

representative will notify the School of Rural Public Health, the Office of Student Affairs will

disseminate information to instructors and departments and assist students with other necessary

arrangements for their absence from class/practicum/examinations. It is the responsibility of the

student to contact their course instructors as soon as possible to arrange for make-up of missed

work. Students absent for an extended period of time should discuss the matter with their

academic advisor or department head.

AUTHORIZED TO ATTEND CLASS

No student is permitted to attend any class section unless he or she is officially registered for that

class section. A student is considered registered only if his or her name appears on the official

course roster. Students wishing to audit a course must make arrangements to do so by following

course auditing procedures as outlined in the HSC Catalog (use appropriate form located at: http://www.tamhsc.edu/education/registrar/forms/course-audit-form.pdf

HOLIDAYS

Students are reminded that the HSC academic calendar for the School of Rural Public Health

differs from that of the general Texas A&M University calendar and differs for each academic

year. In the event of questions, students should call the Office of Student Affairs (979) 458-4054.

RELIGIOUS HOLY DAYS

Reference HSC Catalog (Introduction - Attendance section) for information.

12

CHANGE OF DEPARTMENT, CONCENTRATION OR DEGREE PROGRAM

TRANSFERRING FROM A CERTIFICATE PROGRAM TO A MASTER’S DEGREE

PROGRAM

Students currently enrolled in the certificate program (Option 2-graded) wishing to be considered

for admission to one of the master’s or doctoral degree programs must submit a degree seeking

application form through SOPHAS but will not be required to submit duplicate documentation.

Certificate Program Option 1 (Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory) students are not permitted to transfer

any coursework to a master’s degree program. Students wishing to transfer from Option 1

Certificate Program to a master’s degree program must submit a degree seeking application form,

but will not be required to submit duplicate documentation.

TRANSFERRING FROM A MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAM TO A CERTIFICATE

PROGRAM

Degree-seeking students wishing to transfer to the certificate program may do so by submitting

the Petition for Change of Department or Degree Program with necessary signatures indicating

approval. All required transcripts must be on file prior to final approval of the transfer. Only

core courses are considered for any certificate program, no substitutions are allowed.

TRANSFERRING FROM ONE MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAM TO ANOTHER

Students wishing to transfer from one master’s degree program offered within SRPH to another

SRPH master’s degree program must submit the requisite Petition for Change of Department or

Degree Program (with required signatures of approval). Petitions for consideration of transfer

must be accompanied by any additional documents required as a part of the application for the

requested degree (e.g., if the GRE is required for admission into the requested program, then the

petition must be accompanied by GRE scores if not already on file).

TRANSFERRING FROM A MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAM TO A DOCTORAL

PROGRAM

Students currently enrolled in a master’s degree program within SRPH wishing to be considered

for a doctoral degree must submit a new application for the doctoral program to be considered

for admission. All relevant information related to the student’s academic qualifications will be

considered by the relevant admissions committee. If the doctoral degree program requires a

master’s degree, and the student does not already hold a master’s degree, the student must

complete the master’s degree before being admitted into the doctoral program. Any additional

documentation required for application to the doctoral degree program and not present in the

student’s current file (e.g., GRE scores) must be submitted with the new application.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS may only make degree level changes within the first 15 days

of the semester according to HSC International Student Services rules.

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COURSE WORK & RECORDS

CORE COURSE SUBSTITUTIONS

Each professional degree (MPH or MHA) student must complete core courses in each of the

public health disciplines, including epidemiology (PHEB 600-Fundamentals of Epidemiology),

biostatistics (PHEB 602-Biostatistics I), health policy and management (PHPM 605-Introduction

to Health Policy & Management), occupational and environmental health (PHEO 600-Principles

of Environmental & Occupational Health), and social and behavioral sciences (PHSB 603-Social

& Behavioral Determinants of Health or for PHSB majors - PHSB 604–Social Ecology and

Health Behavior). In addition, they must complete the core course, Rural Public Health Systems

(PHPM 601). Students may be allowed to substitute a different course for a required core course

under certain circumstances.

Substitutions for core courses do not reduce the number of hours required for a student’s degree

program. Such substitutions simply allow students to substitute more appropriate courses. Core

course substitutions will only be granted under unusual circumstances. Students may, for

example, substitute more advanced courses in a particular core area for the required introductory

course if they have already completed similar introductory coursework elsewhere. Students are

still accountable for the general content of the core course during the comprehensive

examination process. Students should use the course petition form (along with a syllabus and

statement of why this is a viable option) which must have the approval signatures of the student’s

advisor, head of their department, head of the department offering the course(s), and the

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.

CONCENTRATION COURSE SUBSTITUTIONS

Each department within SRPH has developed a set of required concentration courses for the

various degree programs. Substitutions for required concentration courses require the approval

of the student’s academic advisor and the head of the student’s department. As noted in the

policy on advanced placement, required courses may only be substituted not waived.

Substitutions do not reduce the number of hours required for a student’s degree program. Once

approved, the petition will be included in the student’s record.

COURSE SCHEDULES & REGISTRATION

SRPH courses and textbook requirements are listed in MyHSC and are posted just prior to

registration each semester. Students schedule visits with their academic advisor prior to

registration. Registration is handled through Banner which is located on students’ MyHSC link.

DEGREE PLAN

Final degree plans must be filed with the Office of the Registrar the beginning of the student’s

graduation semester.

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CO-ENROLLING AT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

School of Rural Public Health students wanting to take Texas A&M University classes must

have their department approval and follow TAMU registration deadlines. Taking courses at

TAMU requires students to meet with department administrative assistant and submit the co-

enrollment application form prior to registering at TAMU. The Office of Student Affairs will

generate a co-enrollment letter which is sent to TAMU graduate admissions. After processing of

forms, students use their NET ID & password to register on-line with TAMU at

https://howdy.tamu.edu

Students wanting to drop a TAMU course should visit with their department administrative

assistant and comply with all deadlines and processing requirements.

Student completes the HSC add/drop form, which requires the department head signature.

If the required dropped course is the only course on the student’s registration form or if it

is the only TAMU course listed on the student’s semester registration, the student must

file a HSC “withdrawal” form also (mark TAMU ONLY on the form to indicate that you

are dropping only the TAMU course).

The forms are sent to the HSC Registrar’s Office who forwards them onto the Texas

A&M University Office of the Registrar for further processing requirements.

COURSE EVALUATION PROCESS

Each course taught by SRPH faculty is evaluated through student evaluations of the quality of

the course and instructional materials and techniques. Copies of student ratings of teaching are

provided to the faculty member and the head of their department, and are placed in the faculty

member’s file located in the Office of Academic Affairs. Department heads may also collect

other sources of information on teaching effectiveness in consultation with their faculty.

Student evaluations of teaching are conducted two-three weeks before final exams. Standardized

questionnaires are announced to students by the Office of Academic Affairs via email and

delivered via Blackboard and are to be returned by the same method.

Following the submission of grades by the instructor, the instructors are provided with the

original forms and summary information on student responses to the questionnaire items. Each

department head receives a copy of the summary information. If faculty collects narrative open-

ended information from students, that information belongs to the faculty member.

GRADES

GRADE POINT AVERAGE CALCULATIONS AND MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

A student’s official cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated by the HSC Registrar

using the grade points indicated in the HSC Catalog. The cumulative GPA is based on all

coursework completed while enrolled as a student at SRPH and included on the student’s official

HSC transcript. Courses taken at Texas A&M University while enrolled as an SRPH student are

included on the HSC transcript and are thus included in the GPA calculation. Grades achieved in

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courses completed at other institutions and transferred in to satisfy SRPH degree requirements

are not included on the transcript and thus not included in the GPA calculation. The hours

students receive in S/U graded courses will not be included in computation of their cumulative

grade point average.

Students receiving either a “D” or an “F” on a required course will be required to retake the

course in its entirety. Although the student will be required to achieve a minimum of a “C” on

all courses on the official degree plan, all grades received are recorded on the official transcript.

The most recent course grade will be used in calculating the official cumulative GPA. The

degree plan GPA for a student’s work in SRPH will be used to determine eligibility for

graduation. Students must achieve a minimum GPA of 3.0 to be eligible to graduate. Students

receiving an “I” (Incomplete) will have until the final day of classes the next long semester to

complete course requirements. Once requirements have been me a grade change form will be

submitted. It is the student’s responsibility to clear requirements, not the faculty member. If

requirements are not completed by the due date the “I” will revert to an “F”.

GRADE DISTRIBUTION AND PRIVACY

Students’ grades (or graded papers/exams) will not to be posted or accessible in public spaces

(e.g., posted in a hallway or office door). Graded papers or exams will not to be given to anyone

other than the student (unless provided expressed written consent by the student). Graded

papers, exams and final grades and comprehensive examination results cannot be emailed;

however, they can be placed in a sealed envelope for pick up with your student ID.

ACCESS TO GRADES

Official end of the semester grades are provided by the Office of the Registrar. Student may view

their semester grades using the Banner – student information system. Student access to Banner

student information will occur via mhHSC logon. Instructors, department administrative

assistants, faculty advisors, and representatives in the Office of Student Affairs are not allowed

to provide (even if requested by the student) grades either over the phone or via direct e-mail

(even if using SRPH Outlook). Only the course instructor is allowed to distribute class

project/test and final grades directly to students (unless representatives from the Office of

Student Affairs have received them in a sealed envelope from the course instructor and upon

release has secured valid identification from the student).

GRADE OF IN PROGRESS (IP)

A grade of “In Progress” (IP) can be used for two purposes. When a course extends for more

than one term and grades for the course cannot be reported by the deadline, the transcript will

reflect a grade of In Progress (IP) until the final grade sheet is submitted. At the termination of

the sequence of courses, a final grade will replace the notation In Progress (IP). The In Progress

(IP) notation may also be used when a student is completing designated research hours but has

not yet completed the project and a grade of Incomplete is not appropriate. When the research or

project requirements are complete, the instructor must send a Change of Grade Form to the

Dean for Academic Affairs who forwards to the HSC Registrar for processing. An “IP” grade

does not meet the HSC policy of continuous enrollment.

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ACADEMIC STANDING

GOOD ACADEMIC STANDING

Good academic standing is defined as having an overall grade point average of 3.0 or above and

not being on probation for any reason. Students must be in good academic standing in order to

qualify for financial aid, scholarships or graduate assistantships, serve as either an officer in an

SRPH student organization or a student representative to an SRPH standing committee.

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY & DISHONESTY ISSUES

The Associate Dean for Academic Affairs (or designee) will investigate complaints of academic

dishonesty. If the Associate Dean determines that cause exists to pursue the complaint, the

accused will be notified in writing and have an opportunity to be heard. If the accused fails to

appear at the time and place specified in the notice, the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs (or

designee) may proceed with the hearing. A student may not graduate until an allegation of

academic dishonesty has been resolved. Individuals adjudicated guilty of academic dishonesty

may be considered for suspension, dismissal or expulsion.

Procedures for Academic Performance, Academic Integrity and Professional Conduct

Reviews – see HSC Catalog.

SUSPENSION, DISMISSAL AND EXPULSION

Under extreme circumstances a student may be suspended, dismissed or expelled from the School

of Rural Public Health. Such actions may be the result of poor academic performance, engaging

in acts of academic dishonesty, behavioral misconduct or substance abuse. Students suspended

from the program will be allowed to complete the program following a specified period of time.

During the period of suspension students will not be allowed to participate in any school-related

activities, use any system resources, maintain a graduate assistantship, nor complete any degree

requirements (i.e., attend classes, participate in research endeavors). The period of the suspension

may or may not be specifically noted on the student’s permanent transcript depending on the

exact circumstances (as determined by the Dean). Students dismissed from the program will not

be allowed to complete the degree program, though they will be allowed to reapply for admission

at a future date. Dismissal from the program will be noted on the student’s official transcript.

Likewise, students expelled from the program will not be allowed to complete the degree

program. In addition, such students will not be allowed to reapply for admission at any point in

the future.

For additional information, students are encouraged to contact either the School of Rural Public

Health - Office of Academic Affairs or the Health Science Center - Office of the Registrar.

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PROFESSIONALISM

HONESTY

Students are expected to demonstrate honesty and integrity in all aspects of their education and

in their interactions with fellow students, staff, faculty, and professional colleagues. They may

not cheat, plagiarize, or assist others in the commission of these acts. The student is bound to

know, understand, and preserve professional ethics and has a duty to report any breach of these

ethics by other students or health care providers through the appropriate channels.

RESEARCH

A basic principle underlying all research is honesty. Scientists have a responsibility to provide

research results of high quality; to gather facts meticulously; to keep impeccable records of work

done; to interpret results realistically, not forcing them into preconceived molds or models; and

to report new knowledge through appropriate channels. Co-authors of research reports must be

well enough acquainted with the work of their coworkers that they can personally vouch for the

integrity of the study and validity of the findings, and must have been active in the research

itself. Plagiarism is unethical. To consciously incorporate the words of others, either verbatim or

through paraphrasing, without appropriate acknowledgment is unacceptable in scientific

literature.

CRITICISM OF COLLEAGUES

It is unethical and harmful for a student to disparage without good evidence the professional

competence, knowledge, qualifications, or services of a colleague to a review (judicial) body,

staff, faculty, or other students. Professional relations among all members of the rural public

health community should be marked with civility. Thus, scholarly contributions should be

acknowledged, slanderous comments and acts should be avoided, and each person should

recognize and facilitate the contributions of others to the community. The rural public health

student will deal with professionals, staff, and peers in a cooperative and considerate manner.

Students should also respect each other's confidentiality by not discussing the performance of

their classmates.

PROFESSIONAL DEMEANOR AND APPEARANCE

The student should be thoughtful, respectful and professional in demeanor. Inappropriate

behavior includes the use of offensive language, gestures, or remarks with sexual overtones.

Under pressure of fatigue, professional stress, or personal problems, students should strive to

maintain composure. The student should seek supportive services when appropriate. Students

should maintain a neat and clean appearance in appropriate clothing. Students are expected to be

on time for all activities.

DISRUPTION IN THE CLASSROOM

See HSC Catalog for information.

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SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY

The Health Science Center prohibits the illicit use, sale, attempted sale, conveyance, distribution,

manufacture, cultivation, dispensation, purchase, attempted purchase, and possession of illegal

drugs, or controlled substances, at any time and in any amount or in any manner on HSC

premises or at HSC sponsored activities. Illicit drugs include all drugs for which possession is

illegal under federal or state law, including prescription drugs for which the individual does not

have a valid prescription. The purchase, consumption and possession of alcoholic beverages in

facilities under the control of the HSC shall in all respects comply with state laws and with

guidelines as defined in System Policy 34.03 and System Regulation 34.02.01. Also refer to

SRPH Policy & Procedures Manual, I.B.8. Substance Abuse Policy (Approved EC, 28 Nov. ’05).

Disciplinary action in cases involving drug or alcohol related violations by students may result in

suspension, dismissal or expulsion from the Health Science Center. Severity of the sanctions will

depend upon the nature and seriousness of each case and may be subject to prosecution in

accordance with applicable laws. Specific disciplinary procedures will be followed as outlined in

The HSC Catalog. Students should report suspected violations of this rule.

Faculty is responsible for addressing violations of this policy occurring within their classes. The

faculty member may counsel, discipline the student or refer the student to the head of his/her

department for disciplinary action. In the case of a disciplinary resolution, the student may

formally appeal the instructor/department head’s action. Appeals will be heard when the student

alleges that an arbitrary, capricious or prejudiced evaluation of conduct occurred. Formal appeals

must be related to concerns over disciplinary procedures.

STUDENT CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS & DRUG SCREENING

Drug tests (urine screens) and criminal background checks are frequently requirements for

employment, especially at health care facilities. Such requirements are often in place for students

who rotate through health-related facilities as part of required educational experiences, such as

practica. Students can expect and should be prepared for them. Students must be aware that:

• If a drug test and/or a criminal background check is required for enrollment and or

participation in any course or school-related activity, the expense for the test and/or check

will be borne by the student or requesting agency.

• Results of a drug test and/or a criminal background check will not be the property of the

School of Rural Public Health. The SRPH will not require the submission of results to the

School.

• If a student fails to pass a drug test and/or a criminal background check they may be

ineligible for enrollment and/or participation in the course/activity being sought.

• The School of Rural Public Health does not accept responsibility for any student being

ineligible for coursework or continued enrollment in the School for any reason, including

failure to pass a drug test or criminal background check.

If required by the host organization or agency, students will provide the results of a criminal

background check and/or drug screening as mandated by the regulations of the host

organization/agency.

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AWARDS and HONORS

GRADUATING WITH HONORS

Students are required to receive a “C” or better on all courses on their official degree plan in

order to graduate. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is required for graduation. A cumulative

GPA of 3.8 or higher is required for graduation with honors status for M.P.H. and M.H.A. degree

program students. There is no “rounding up” of the calculated grade point average. GPA

calculations are provided to the commencement committee by the HSC Office of the Registrar.

The official cumulative GPA is based on all courses on the HSC transcript taken as an

SRPH student. Only the cumulative GPA is noted on your transcript or any official

documentation.

Transfer credit grades are not included in GPA calculation; grades from TAMU are

included in GPA calculation.

If a course is retaken, the most recent grade is included in the cumulative GPA

calculation regardless if there is a decline from a previous grade.

All grades are included on the permanent transcript (classes retaken are indicated with *R

next to the previous grade(s) received).

DELTA OMEGA HONOR SOCIETY

Delta Omega is the national public health honor society for the schools of public health.

Membership is Delta Omega reflects the dedication of an individual to quality in the field of

public health and to the protection and advancement of the health of all people. Election to

membership (by the faculty members in the local chapter of Delta Omega) is intended not only to

recognize merit but also to encourage further excellence in, and devotion to, public health. To be

eligible for membership in Delta Omega a graduating student must have a grade point average

(GPA) in the top 25 percent of all graduating students, with only 10 percent of the graduating

students eligible for induction each year. It is a high honor for a graduating student to be selected

for membership in the society.

DEPARTMENTAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Departmental achievement awards honor those students who the departmental faculty believe

have been outstanding in all areas of their professional preparation, including academics,

research, department or institution involvement, and community outreach. These students

exemplify the qualities of outstanding future public health professionals and leaders. During the

spring semester each academic year the faculty members from each of the academic departments

are asked to select one recipient for their departmental achievement award. Students eligible for

consideration are those individuals who were not eligible to participate in commencement the

previous year (refer to previous guidelines on participating in the annual commencement

ceremony) as well as the December and May graduates from the current academic year, and any

August graduates who are eligible to participate in the May commencement ceremony.

Additional information on specific criteria and the selection process is available through the

student’s home department.

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DEAN’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE

The Dean’s Award for Excellence in Public Health is given each year to a graduating public

health student who has shown consistent excellence in coursework, service, and leadership. An

additional requirement for this award is the student’s demonstrated visible commitment to public

health, one that is likely to be evident throughout his or her career. During the spring semester

each academic year the faculty members from each of the academic departments are given the

opportunity to forward one student nominee to the Dean for consideration as the recipient of the

award. Students eligible for consideration are those individuals who were not eligible to

participate in commencement the previous year (refer to previous guidelines on participating in

the annual commencement ceremony) as well as the December and May graduates from the

current academic year, and any August graduates who are eligible to participate in the May

commencement ceremony. The letter of nomination from each department briefly describes the

nominee’s activities while enrolled at SRPH and why they exemplify the characteristics outlined

above.

RESEARCH AWARD

The School of Rural Public Health’s Award for Excellence in Research is given each year to one

graduating master’s student and one graduating doctoral student who have undertaken either a

research thesis or independent research project that demonstrates both excellent application of

research skills and the potential for impact on public health policies or practices. The two

recipients will be selected by the Office of Research – Research Advisor Committee. All

students who are eligible to participate in May commencement are eligible to compete for the

award (refer to previous guidelines on participating in the annual commencement ceremony).

Students that become eligible to graduate later than spring semester will be eligible for

consideration at the following spring graduation ceremony.

Criteria for Evaluation: Interested and eligible students should submit a Student Research Award

Application to the Office of Research (application available on the Office of Research webpage).

The application calls for a title, student identification, a short description of the research issues

addressed by the student’s overall work since enrolling at SRPH, an abstract, detailed research

questions addressed, a description of the research protocol, a summary of the relevance of the

work, and the likelihood the work will contribute to the professional literature and possibly lead

to other projects. The student needs to make sure that he/she explains the reason/hypothesis

behind the research and in the conclusion section needs to mention/describe the public health

implications.

The student may work with advisors or thesis/dissertation committee members in preparing the

three page application. The work does not necessarily have to be part of a thesis or dissertation

project; however, the work must reflect the student’s own effort.

Additional information on the application process is available through the SRPH Office of

Research.

21

CULMINATING EXPERIENCES

Details for each of these academic events are given in the current HSC Catalog.

PUBLIC HEALTH CAPSTONE COURSE (M.P.H. Degree Programs)

PRACTICUM EXPERIENCE (M.P.H. Degree Program)

THESIS & DISSERTATION SUBMISSION (M.S.P.H. & Dr.P.H. Degree Programs)

GRADUATION The HSC does not automatically award degrees upon completion of scholastic requirements. To

be considered for a degree, a student must complete procedures and meet deadlines:

Deadlines for applying for graduation are as follows:

o Fall graduates – September 15

o Spring graduates – February 15

o Summer graduates – June 15

Submit a final degree plan to your departmental assistant

Submit a commencement form to the Office of Student Affairs whether attending a

ceremony or not

PARTICIPATION IN THE SPRING COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY All students are strongly encouraged to participate in SRPH’s annual commencement event.

Qualified students may participate in the annual ceremony under specific conditions. Details are

available in the HSC Catalog-SRPH section.

Student must submit the following items by published deadlines in order to participate in the

annual commencement ceremony:

HSC graduation application & diploma order – apply online at myHSC portal

SRPH commencement participation form – can be found at myHSC portal (Student

Services>Current Students)

Regalia (cap, gown and hood) order (will be notified by the registrar’s office)

Students wanting to participate in the commencement ceremony and/or have your name

published in the printed program, and who have a directory restriction in place with the

Office of the Registrar must also submit a waiver form.

CLASS RING ORDERING CRITERIA & PROCEDURES

Details on eligibility requirements and ordering information can be found at

http://www.tamhsc.edu/ring .

22

STUDENT SERVICES

The Office of Student Affairs provides administrative and staff support for the recruitment,

admission, retention and record-keeping of students attending the School of Rural Public Health;

provides coordination of manuscript submission and required documents; provides support for

extracurricular student activities; provides oversight for school-wide programmatic requirements

and functions such as student practica, comprehensive examinations, course offerings and

commencement; provides career development resources for current students. Students with

questions regarding available services or resources available within the School of Rural Public

Health or within the Texas A&M Health Science Center are welcome to contact the SRPH

Office of Student Affairs.

See Appendix for Contact Information

TAMU SERVICES PROVIDED TO SRPH STUDENTS

The following student fee-based services are provided by TAMU for SRPH student:

ID Card

Recreational Sports Center Fee

Student Services Fee

Transportation Fee

Health Center Fee

University Center Complex Fee

University-wide Computer Access Fee

Library Access Fee

TAMU Open Computer lab access

Student Counseling Services – http://scs.tamu.edu/

College Station based students are billed for these fee items as these are mandatory fees.

Service is provided by TAMU, and SRPH students access these services by showing their

Texas A&M University ID card.

Students outside the College Station location have the following fees waived:

Recreational Sports Center Fee

Transportation Fee

Health Center Fee

University Center Complex Fee

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COUNSELING

Counseling is available for students with academic, psychological and other personal concerns.

Students may seek counsel from individual faculty members at any time. In addition, counseling

services are available in three general, broad categories described below.

GENERAL COUNSELING

Counseling is available from a number of sources within the School of Rural Public Health.

Associate and assistant deans, department heads, and faculty are available for consultation and

are prepared to offer assistance to students when required. All currently enrolled students of the

Health Science Center located within the Bryan/College Station area are also eligible for

counseling from the Texas A&M University Student Counseling Service. Student Counseling

Services staff is located on the main TAMU campus in Cain Hall (room B-103). Appointments

may be made by calling (979) 845-4427. No appointment is needed for emergency psychological

services.

PERSONAL COUNSELING

Students may select counselors other than those provided by A&M’s Student Counseling

Service, but payment for counseling will be the responsibility of the student. Students whose

problems require prolonged or more in-depth psychotherapy, more in-depth psychological

testing, or who have psychiatric emergencies requiring immediate stabilization will be

responsible for costs of therapy although portions of the cost of therapy may be covered by their

insurance policy if authorized in advance. Records of student counseling sessions with

counselors provided by the Student Counseling Center are strictly confidential and will not

become part of the student's record. In such instances it may become necessary for the student to

withdraw from the program. Personnel within the Office of Student Affairs are available to

assist the student complete the necessary paperwork.

SPECIAL SERVICES COUNSELING

Students requesting accommodations for a disability or with questions/concerns should consult

the Office of Disabilities Services, at Texas A&M University - Department of Student Life,

located in Cain Hall. The phone number is (979) 458-1214. Special accommodations must be

petitioned semester by semester. This department can provide special accommodations and may

certify a student as full time even if the student is enrolled with less than full time semester credit

hours.

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HSC DIVISION OF STUDENT SERVICES

http://www.tamhsc.edu/dss/index.html

Office of the Registrar - http://www.tamhsc.edu/education/registrar or 979-436-0188

Student Financial Aid - http://www.tamhsc.edu/education/finaid/index.html or 979-436-0181

Student Business Services - http://www.tamhsc.edu/education/student/index.html or 979-436-0195

International Student Services - http://www.tamhsc.edu/ois/index.html or 979-436-0186

THE ROLE OF THE REGISTRAR

The official academic records of students enrolled in the School of Rural Public Health are

maintained in the Office of the Registrar for the Health Science Center. Such records include, but

are not limited to, transcripts, letters and memoranda relating to the student's progress through

the curriculum, and the student's original application form. Academic records of graduates are

also maintained in the Office of the Registrar.

Maintenance of academic records is the responsibility of the Office of the Registrar. Access is

based on “legitimate educational interest,” and limited to academic and administrative purposes

in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA). Upon

enrolling in the School of Rural Public Health, students may determine if they wish the Health

Science Center to withhold their directory information from general publication. Students may

change this designation, if necessary, at any time by updating the privacy form.

SRPH CAREER SERVICES

The School’s Career Services Coordinator is located in the Office of Student Affairs and can

assist currently enrolled students and alumni with the following services:

Career Advising & Career-related Workshops

Resume Reviews & Writing Cover Letters

Interviewing Techniques & Practice Sessions

Job Search & Networking Strategies

Articles & Job Postings

Practicum & Fellowship Links

Compensation and Salary Evaluations

Career Services offers individualized career advising sessions to all current SRPH students.

Advising appointments should be scheduled in advance and typically last one hour. Topics

covered include resume review/writing, interview preparation, career search strategies, and use

of networking tools.

25

STUDENT LIFE ISSUES

UIN – UNIVERSAL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

A student’s “Universal Identification Number” or “UIN” is assigned by the Health Science

Center Office of the Registrar and remains constant for the duration of the student’s degree

program. The Office of the Registrar mails all students their individually assigned UIN prior to

the beginning of the student’s first registered semester. Students should contact the registrar for

any questions and/or concerns about their UIN.

TAMUS GRADUATE STUDENT INSURANCE PLAN

Information on various plan options (accident, sickness, repatriation and medical evacuation

coverage) can be found at http://www.aipinternational.com/TAM/plan_select.html or to access this

information logon to myHSC then locate the channel called “SRPH-Current Students”, then click

on “General Forms & Class Schedule Information”, next click on “Graduate Student Health

Insurance” to access the web page for more information including a brochure.

TRAVEL SAFETY GUIDELINES

System policy 13.04.Z1 applies to student travel that is more than 25 miles from campus to an

activity or event that is organized, sponsored, and funded by an HSC component, using a vehicle

owned or leased by the HSC. Requirements also apply to student travel that is required by an

organization registered at an HSC component. Student traveling on behalf of the HSC must

obtain prior approval through the appropriate Office of Student Affairs.

These guidelines apply to student travel by cars, trucks, vans or buses:

seat belts or other available safety restraints must be used

official maximum capacity of the vehicle should not be exceeded

drivers must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid driver’s license that is

appropriate for the classification of the vehicle being driven

operator fatigue should be considered when selecting drivers.

STUDENT SAFETY & BUILDING HOURS

General access to the building is 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM Monday through Friday. After 5:30 PM

students can access the classroom building using their SRPH security ID badge from 5:30 PM

until midnight Monday through Friday. Staff is not present in the classroom building after 9:00

PM. Saturday and Sunday the computer lab is accessible from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and no staff

is on duty during weekend hours.

PARKING & TRANSPORTATION ISSUES

For information, routes, maps and permits go to http://transport.tamu.edu/parking.aspx

SRPH bus route is #4.

USE OF SRPH TELEPHONES, FAX MACHINES, PRINTERS & COPIERS

Telephones, FAX machines, printers and copiers located in School of Rural Public Health

facilities are for official School of Rural Public Health business only. Personal long distance toll

calls/faxes should be made at public (pay) telephones or by billing to credit cards.

26

COMPUTER LAB PRINTING QUOTAS

At the beginning of each semester, every SRPH student attending classes in Bryan/College

Station will be assigned a quota on the number of pages they may print using the printers in the

SRPH computer lab. Quotas are set forth as follows:

Master’s Degree Program level - Fall/Spring Semester quota - 750 pages per semester

Doctoral Degree Program level - Fall/Spring Semester quota – 3,000 pages per semester

Summer Session quota - 300 pages per 10 week session for all students

COMPUTER ACCESS

Students are allowed access to computing facilities at the College Station and at some distance

education site facilities. All students, regardless of location, are required to activate an e-mail

account. Students' use of computers and/or accessing data stored on a computer system without

proper authorization is subject to disciplinary action, as stipulated in the Texas A&M University

Regulations:

1. Unauthorized Use of Computer Accounts or System Access -- Unauthorized use of

computers includes free standing as well as networked computers. It is to be emphasized

that giving one's password or other log-on information to an unauthorized user of the

system is unauthorized system access. Regardless of the purpose or the intent of

unauthorized access, Texas A&M System will recommend the filing of appropriate

charges in the Criminal Justice System for all such violations.

2. Unauthorized Viewing or Changing of Data -- only authorized users are to have access to

data. "Browsing" of data by unauthorized users is a violation of the State Penal Code, and

such actions will be prosecuted. This statement covers all administrative systems on

campus, including the Student Information System. Unauthorized access of another

person's account to view that person's files comes under this heading as well. Such access

includes, but is not limited to, accessing another student's files, accessing a professor's

file and accessing a patient's file without proper authority.

3. Unauthorized Copying of Software and Data -- all commercial software and data are

covered by copyrights of some form. Duplication of software and/or data covered by such

copyrights is a violation of the copyright law.

4. Computers should not be used for the unauthorized downloading of pornographic or

offensive material. Unapproved programs should not be placed on the computer.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS AND COMMITTEES

Only students in good academic standing (overall GPA 3.0 or above for the current semester and

the semester immediately prior to election/appointment and not on probation for any reason) may

hold an office in student organizations, serve on councils and committees, or represent the

School at meetings or conferences.

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NEW STUDENT ORGANIZATION RECOGNITION AND APPROVAL PROCESS All student organizations wishing to be affiliated with the School of Rural Public Health,

acknowledged as an official student organization, and a recipient of all rights and privileges

afforded formal student organizations within the school must be reviewed and approved. All

official student organizations affiliated with the School of Rural Public Health must demonstrate

both in purpose and actions consistency with the mission and vision of the School of Rural

Public Health. In addition, official student organizations affiliated with the School must not in

any way engage in actions either inconsistent with the mission and vision of the School, nor in

violation with any SRPH, Health Science Center, or A&M System regulations or codes of

conduct. Finally, all official student organizations affiliated with the School must successfully

proceed through the formal student organization recognition process through the TAMU Student

Activities organization (or comparable process within the HSC once available). Student

organizations that are not fully approved and recognized as official student organizations within

SRPH may not use the School’s name or resources in any way in the execution of their

organization’s business. The Office of Student Affairs is responsible for providing additional

information and assistance to anyone considering proposing a new official student group within

SRPH.

Required Documentation for Proposal: Any group interested in being recognized as an official

student organization within SRPH, must submit a proposal including information on the

following:

1. the purpose, mission and objectives of the proposed organization;

2. proposed activities of the organization;

3. needs and interests among the student body the proposed organization will fulfill that are

not currently being met by another official student organization within SRPH;

4. estimated membership and membership criteria;

5. signature of at least one SRPH faculty member willing to serve as the organization’s

faculty advisor

Required Review and Approvals for a New Student Organization: All official student

organizations within the school require not only approval within the school, but must also

proceed successfully through the Texas A&M University Student Activities new student

organization recognition process. In order to secure the requisite approval and recognition as an

official student organization within the School of Rural Public Health, the proposal (see above)

must be reviewed (and documented) by the following entities (in the order indicated):

1. SRPH Student Affairs Committee (approval required to proceed through the review

process)

2. SRPH Executive Committee (approval required to proceed through the review process)

3. SRPH Administrative Council

4. SRPH Dean

Once reviewed (and approved as indicated) by these entities, the proposed student organization is

free to proceed through the final stages of the TAMU Student Organizations recognition process.

Once approved by both the SRPH entities above, and fully recognized by the Office of Student

Activities at TAMU, the organization must submit its constitution and bylaws to the Office of

Student Affairs.

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RECOGNIZED SRPH STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Rural Public Health Student Association (RPHSA)

The School of Rural Public Health's student-lead organization, the Rural Public Health Student

Association (RPHSA), is open to all students. The organization is designed to serve as the voice

of the graduate student body of the School of Rural Public Health. The mission of RPHSA is to

serve as a resource to increase awareness of public health, facilitate opportunities for community

service, and to provide an interconnection between students and public health professionals. The

goal of the RPHSA is to enhance the quality and scope of graduate education, and encourage

student participation in the activities and programs of the School of Rural Public Health, the

Texas A&M University System Health Science Center, and Texas A&M University.

Epidemiology Student Organization (ESO)

The mission of the Epidemiology Student Organization (ESO) is to promote appreciation and

career awareness to the public health field of Epidemiology. ESO routinely sponsors activities

including guest speakers, community involvement opportunities, social events and class study

sessions. All students in the Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics are automatically

considered members of the ESO. All students are encouraged to join.

Association for Future Healthcare Leaders (AFHL)

The TAMU Student Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Leaders provides a network

for students in healthcare administration to meet, exchange ideas, and advance the goals of the

American College of Healthcare Leaders on a local level. These goals include staying current on

healthcare issues, expanding healthcare knowledge, and helping to shape the current and future

environment of healthcare management. Additionally, the SRPH student chapter provides

opportunities for students to network and become involved in community service.

Medical Group Management Association (MGMA)

The Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) student chapter was established in 2002

to promote professionalism, networking, leadership, and learning among its members. All

concentrations are encouraged to become active participants of MGMA. The activities and

benefits of being a member of this organization are fulfilling and incorporate many components

of public health (e.g. administrators, CEO’s, physicians, board members, office manager).

Social & Behavioral Student Organization (SBSO)

The mission of the SBSO is to promote appreciation and career awareness of the social and

behavioral public health field. Our goals to fulfill this mission are: to actively engage, enhance,

and develop a professional network through social, volunteer, and academic networks; to provide

SBSO members with opportunities to learn more about the field of social and behavioral health;

and to facilitate lasting ties between its members.

American Society of Safety Engineers (S-ASSE) The American Society of Safety Engineers student chapter provides a forum for those students

intending careers as environmental, safety and health professionals. The mission of S-ASSE is

to increase safety awareness within the school and community, commit to community services

and provide career development and opportunities for future safety professionals.

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APPENDIX I – CONTACT INFORMATION

SCHOOL OF RURAL PUBLIC HEALTH

Office of the Dean

Craig Blakely, Ph.D., M.P.H.– Dean

Beti Barron, Assistant to the Dean (979) 862-4445

Office of Academic Affairs

Antonio Rene, Ph.D., M.P.H. – Associate Dean for Academic Affairs

Lois Rockwell – Assistant to the Associate Dean (979) 458-1882

Office of Student Affairs

Kyle Foster, B.A. - Director (979) 862-6663

Devy Hardeman, M.Ed. – Assistant Director (979) 458-3243

– Recruitment & Admissions (979) 845-6286

Chris Grukemeyer, B.S. –Career Services (979) 862-6950

Office of Distance Education Brenda Sireci - Online Learning Coordinator (979) 862-8145

Department Heads

Thomas McDonald, Ph.D. - Dept. of Environmental & Occupational Health

Britta Wright, Assistant to the Department Head (979) 862-6672

Dennis Gorman, Ph.D. - Dept. of Epidemiology & Biostatistics

Samantha Payton – Assistant to the Department Head (979) 862-4141

Chris Johnson, Ph.D. - Dept. of Health Policy & Management

Sharli Nucker, B.S. – Assistant to the Department Head (979) 458-2246

Brian Colwell, Ph.D. - Dept. of Social & Behavioral Health

Maggie Acosta, Assistant to the Department Head (979) 458-0859

Practicum Coordinators – check with your department’s main office for information

HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER

Office of the Registrar - Dana Pence, Registrar (979) 436-0189

http://www.tamhsc.edu/education/registrar/

Financial Aid Office – Harold Whittis, Executive Director (979) 436-0199

http://www.tamhsc.edu/education/finaid/index.html

Student Business Services – Andrew Startz, Director (979) 436-0195

http://www.tamhsc.edu/education/student/index.html

International Services - Philip Clay, Director (979) 436-0186

http://www.tamhsc.edu/dss