2021-2022 UBNI Student Handbook

University of Bridgeport

Nutrition Institute

Revised 8-1-2021

STUDENT HANDBOOK

(8-1-2021)

Table of Contents

1. Preface ......................................................................................................................................................... ...1 2. Overview of School ...................................................................................................................................... ..1

a. Vision and Mission ........................................................................................................................ ...1 o University of Bridgeport…… ...................................................................................... .…...1 o University of Bridgeport Nutrition Institute….............................................................. …...1

b. Accreditation and Licensure ......................................................................................................... ...1 c. Philosophy and Core Values ........................................................................................................ ....2 d. Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) .......................................................................................... ..…2 e. Administration ………………………………………………………………………………….…..2

3. Academic Policies of UBNI .................................................................................................................. ……2 a. Attendance Policy ......................................................................................................................... ….2 b. Course Credit Policy....................................................................................................................... …2

c. Make-Up Policies ........................................................................................................................... …2 d. Curriculum …………………………………………………......................................................... .…3 e. Assignment Submission Policy.............................................................................................................4 f. Examination Policies ....................................................................................................................... …4 g. Grading Policy................................................................................................................................. …4

o Incomplete …………………………………………………………………………………..5 o Withdrawal ………………………………………………………………………………….5 o Special Grading for 560N, 560U, 560V …………………………………………………….6 o Special Grading for Virtual Clinic (560K) ………………………………………………….6 o Grading for Comprehensive Exam (600N) …………………………………………………6 o Academic Honors …………………………………………………………………………...6 o Grade Disputes ………………………………………………………………………………7

h. Maintenance of Good Academic Standing and Academic Sanctions …………………………………7 o Maintenance of Good Academic Standing …………………………………………………..7 o Academic Integrity …………………………………………………………………………..7 o Ethics Statement of Confidentiality …………………………………………………………7 o Academic Discipline Procedures ……………………………………………………………7

i. Transfer Credit ……………………………………………………………………………………….8 j. Graduation Requirements …………………………………………………………………………….8 k. Progression and Retention Policy …………………………………………………………………….8

4. Leave of Absence, Readmission and Withdrawal ......................................................................................8 a. Leave of Absence (less than one academic year) ……………………………………………………...9 b. Readmission for Students Requesting to Return to the UBNI Program after One Academic Year…....9 c. Withdrawing from the MS in Nutrition Program ……………………………………………………....9 d. Circumstances Where Re-Application is Prohibited …………………………………………………..10

5. Disciplinary Action for Professional and Behavioral Issues……………………………………………….10 a. Rules for Student Conduct ……………………………………………………………………………..10 b. Discipline for Student Conduct …………………………………………………………………..….…10 c. Appeal ………………………………………………………………………………………………….11

6. Additional UBNI Program Policies …………………………………………………………………………11 a. Social Media Policy …………………………………………………………………………………….11 b. Netiquette (online etiquette) …………………………………………………………………………....11 c. Communication and Scheduling with Faculty …………………………………………………………12 d. Change in Contact Information ………………………………………………………………………..12 e. Graduation ……………………………………………………………………………………………..12 f. Professional Organizations ..……………………………………………………………….……..…..12 g. Certification and Licensure ……………………………………………………………………….…...12

7. University Policies ………………………………………………………………………………………..….13 a. Equal Opportunity and Non-discrimination Policies ………………………………………………….13 b. Student Accessibility Services ………………………………………………………………………...13 c. Policy on Sexual and Gender-Based Interpersonal Violence and Harassment ……………………… .13

d. Student Financial Services’ Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy ……………………………….…14 e. Grievances/Complaints ………………………………………………………………………………..14

8. University Resources and Services ………………………………………………………………………….14 a. Student Financial Services ……………………………………………………………………………..14 b. Registrar ……………………………………………………………………………………………….14 c. Counseling Services ……………………………………………………………………………………15 d. Bookstore ……………………………………………………………………………………………….15 e. Wahlstrom Library ……………………………………………………………………………………..15

Acknowledgement and Acceptance of UB and UBNI Policies……………………………………………..16

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1. Preface All students entering the Nutrition Institute are responsible for being familiar with and complying with the current version of the Nutrition Institute (the “Program”) Student Handbook (the “Handbook”), which contains policies and procedures for the Program generally, as well as specific Program components. The Nutrition Institute adheres to all the University policies as stated in the Key to UB and the Catalog, unless otherwise stated in the Handbook. All students are also responsible for being familiar with and complying with the current version of the Key to UB and the University of Bridgeport (the “University”) Catalog. Please refer to the Key to UB and the University Catalog for full University policies and procedures. Online editions of the Key to UB and the University Catalog contain the most current version of these materials, available respectively at:

https://files.bridgeport.edu/public/StudentLife/KeytoUB/Key_to_UB.pdf https://files.bridgeport.edu/public/Academics/Registrar/Catalog/UB_Catalog_2018-2020.pdf

This edition of the Handbook replaces any previous version of the Handbook or UBNI policies and guidelines. The online edition of the Handbook contains the most current version of these materials, which is on the MyUB NI Portal. This Handbook covers polices for the entire curriculum. Students must comply with all requirements contained therein. The policies and procedures contained herein are subject to change without prior notice. The provisions of this Handbook do not and are not intended to create either an expressed or implied contract with any student. The University reserves the right in its exclusive direction to add, modify, delete, deviate or amend the provisions of the Handbook, or grant exceptions from the applicability of its provisions.

2. Overview of the School

a. Vision and Mission University of Bridgeport: The University of Bridgeport offers career-oriented undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees and programs for people seeking personal and professional growth. The University promotes academic excellence, personal responsibility and commitment to service. Distinctive curricula in an international, culturally diverse supportive learning environment prepare graduates for life and leadership in an increasingly interconnected world. The University is independent and non-sectarian. Adopted by the Board of Trustees on April 23, 2004

The mission of the human nutrition program is to prepare graduates to positively influence and support specific health challenges and promote overall well-being by integrating biochemical and physiological science knowledge with evidence-based strategies that link to integrative and preventative nutrition-based interventions.

The mission of the University of Bridgeport Nutrition Institute is congruent with the mission of the University of Bridgeport.

b. Accreditation and Licensure

The University of Bridgeport is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) through its Commission of Higher Education. Accreditation of an institution of higher education by NECHE indicates that it meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of institutional quality periodically applied through a peer review process. An accredited university is one that has available the necessary resources to achieve its stated purposes through appropriate educational programs, is substantially doing so, and gives reasonable evidence that it will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. Institutional integrity is also addressed through accreditation.

Program Accreditation:

The M.S. in Nutrition program is the first to be accredited by the Accreditation Council on Nutrition Professional Education (ACNPE), a programmatic accrediting agency for clinical programs in advanced nutrition.

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Graduate Certification and Licensure: UBNI graduates are eligible to sit for several nutrition board certifications after successful completion of the MS degree. They include the CNS, (certified nutrition specialist/www.nutritionspecialists.org), the CCN, (certified clinical nutritionist/www.cbnc.com), NANP (national association of nutrition professionals/www.nanp.org.). State licensure differs for each state. Students should refer to their state board of health websites for further information on state licensure opportunities.

c. Philosophy and Core Values The MS program is closely aligned with the desire to provide career oriented graduate programs to a diverse population of students. The UBNI Comprehensive Exam assures competency to practice human nutrition and is a requirement for the degree. The UBNI Policies and Procedures supplement the University policies by adding expectations pertaining to ethics, behavior, and additional academic standards for graduate-level students in the health professions. The program, which is 100% online, is available to students around the globe and offers a diverse education within the online classroom and learning experience. d. Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

i. Promote and support awareness of the benefits of optimal nutrition to health and overall well-being ii. Integrate biochemical and physiological science knowledge with nutritional evidence-based

interventions and competent decision-making to prevent, positively influence and support various health challenges

iii. Exhibit professional behavior that is ethical, collaborative and culturally sensitive iv. Demonstrate the ability to successfully complete the UB comprehensive nutrition exam

e. Administration Linda Fleming, MS, CNS, Director lfleming@bridgeport.edu Steven Lindner, MS,DC,CNS, Associate Director slindner@bridgeport.edu Carla DeLucia, Program Coordinator cdelucia@bridgeport.edu

3. Academic Policies of UBNI

a. Attendance Policy Online courses start and end on specific dates. Late entry into courses is not permitted. Students are

expected to participate in a course multiple times per week. Assignments and exams are due on specific dates. Please see individual course syllabi for the specific course late policy. Lack of participation in a class for a week or more will subject the student to being dropped from the class unless approved by the instructor and program director. Such approval is reserved for serious illness or unavoidable emergency and will not be granted for reasons of convenience, such as work-related conflicts, weddings, vacations, or travel plans.

b. Course Credit Policy The Human Nutrition Program follows the University of Bridgeport policy regarding the definition of one credit hour. University Policy can be found on page 38 of the 2018-2020 Catalog. https://files.bridgeport.edu/public/Academics/Registrar/Catalog/UB_Catalog_2018-2020.pdf Students should expect to spend 10-15 hours per week per course to adequately learn material and complete assignments.

c. Make-Up Policies

Students will be permitted to make-up an examination or an assignment only with an approved excused absence, which means their failure to complete the exam or assignment as scheduled was because of serious illness or unavoidable emergency. Make-ups will not be granted for reasons of convenience, such as work- related conflicts, weddings, vacations, or travel plans.

Students requesting approval to make up an examination or assignment must submit a physician’s note confirming illness or other documentation of an emergency to the instructor and program director

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as soon as practical. If granted, the student must make up the examination or assignment before the next scheduled examination and the instructor may modify the examination/ assignment. Unless the student is permitted to make up the examination/assignment and does so in a timely manner, the student will receive a zero (0) for any examination/assignment which is not completed. If there is a pattern of excessive missed assignments or a pattern of missed exams, for a particular class or in the program in general, this will be considered in the decision to grant an extension.

d. Curriculum

The UBNI Overall Curriculum Plan illustrates the required sequencing of courses for the academic program. Each course is a pre-requisite to the next course in sequence. Please see below:

Courses Credits Prerequisite Courses 560N Anatomy & Physiology for the Clinical Nutritionist 4 Credits

560U Intro to Biochemistry for the Clinical Nutritionist 3 Credits

560V Nutrition Fundamentals 2 Credits

Total Prerequisites 9 Credits

Term 1

560A Pathophysiology of Disease 4 Credits

560M Evidence Based Nutrition 3 Credits

Term 2

560B Biochemistry of Nutrition 4 Credits

560E Assessment of Nutrition 3 Credits

Term 3

560C Vitamins and Minerals 3 Credits

560G Lifelong Healing with Food 4 Credits

Term 4

560H Developmental Nutrition 3 Credits

560D Clinical Biochemistry 3 Credits

Term 5

560F Nutrition Therapeutics 4 Credits

560K Virtual Clinic 4 Credits

Total MS 35 Credits

Comprehensive Exam- must be successfully completed to earn the MS in Nutrition

0 Credits

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All courses are 14 weeks long with the exception of 560V (7 weeks) and 560K (16 weeks)

Total Credits Prerequisites + MS Program = 44 Total Courses: 13 Total Credits MS Program = 35 Total Courses: 10 Students are responsible for monitoring their own academic and clinical progress and for seeking appropriate assistance if needed. At the beginning of each course/term, students will receive a course syllabus, which will contain general information such as goals and objectives of a course, prerequisites, the grading/evaluation scheme and topics to be covered to complete the course.

e. Assignment Submission Policy Assignments must be submitted in accordance with the following:

• Assignments that contribute to the numerical calculation of the course letter are due at designated intervals during courses as defined by the course syllabus.

• Failure to submit assignments on time will result in a penalty off the total assignment grade for each day late. Refer to the course syllabus for specific penalties that apply to each assignment.

• Extensions are granted at the discretion of the student’s professor and the director and only in extenuating circumstances (e.g., death of parent, child, sibling, car accident, hospitalization). A written request for an extension must be provided to the professor prior to the assignment being due. In the event of an emergency that prevents timely submission and timely notice (i.e. before the assignment is due or within 3 days after), students must request (in writing) permission from the instructor for the late submission. The instructor will review the basis of the student’s request, review with the director, and shall notify the student in writing of his/her decision.

• Consideration of the student’s total course performance to date will be a contributing factor. • Assignment extensions will not be granted for reasons of convenience, such as work related conflicts, weddings, vacations, or travel plans.

f. Examination Policies

UBNI administers all exams via Canvas LMS and requires students to adhere to the following examination policies: • Students are required to take examinations within the date and time window specified in the course

syllabus and schedule. • Exams are administered online using Respondus Lockdown Browser. All courses will also require a

webcam monitor for exams as they are recorded and reviewed by instructors. Please see details in individual courses.

• Online exams are timed. Your syllabus should define for you the time limit on the exam as well as when you log on to complete it. You are permitted to log into the exam only once and complete it in the required time frame. Students cannot log in and out of exams. Once submitted, the exam cannot be accessed again. Time limits set by the professors must be adhered to.

• Students should not engage in any sharing of information with other students or copying exam questions at any time. Students who do so are subject to disciplinary action by the program and possible expulsion.

• Students must adhere to all online exam policies and procedures. Failure to do so may result in being cited for violation of academic integrity which can result in failure of an exam. If this occurs more than once during the program, the student is subject to separation from the program. If cited for a violation, students may appeal the decision by following the academic integrity policy explained in chapter 2 of the Key to UB http://www.bridgeport.edu/docs/StudentLife/KeytoUB/Key_to_UB.pdf and within the timeframes required.

• Reasonable accommodations for examinations must be approved and documented by the Office of Student Accessibility Services prior to exam dates.

g. Grading Policy The GPA is determined based on the following scale:

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Grade QP Numerical Value

A 4.0 94-100 A- 3.67 90-93 B+ 3.33 87-89 B 3.0 84-86 B- 2.67 80-83 C+ 2.33 77-79 C 2.0 74-76 C- 1.67 70-73 D+ 1.33 67-69 D 1.0 64-66 D- .67 60-63 F .00 Below 60 W .00 Withdrawal

I (Incomplete): Terminal coursework remains incomplete when final course grade is entered, resulting from a legitimate, unavoidable reason (illness, family emergency, etc.) as determined at the discretion of the student’s professor and director of the program. Any request for a grade of “I” must be fully documented, and corresponding to UB makeup policies as stated above, and determined to be bona-fide by the instructor and the Program Director. “I” approvals also require provost review and approval. Incompletes are meant to accommodate a student near the end of a course where minimal work remains to be completed and cannot be, due to emergency issues. Incomplete coursework should be completed by the end of the semester immediately following the one in which the incomplete was granted. If the work has not been completed and no grade has been submitted as indicated, the grade automatically becomes F. Students who are failing a course are not permitted to take an incomplete and repeat the course to attain a new grade. A grade of “F” will be issued, and the course will need to be repeated by re-registering for the course. Exception: In Virtual Clinic (560K), if an incomplete is awarded or a grade below 75 is earned in only one module, only that module will need to be repeated the next time the course is offered.

Withdrawal: Grades of “W” are determined in accordance with the deadlines set forth in the Refunds and Withdrawals Policy More specifically:

• Drop during Change of Registration Period: If a student drops a course during the official change of registration period, that course does not appear on the student’s transcript. Dropping during this period includes those initiated by the student and those administratively initiated by the University (e.g. cancellation of course sections, student never attending class). A request to withdraw from a course must be made in writing. Only an official withdrawal will result in a grade of W, instead of F, for the course and prorated refund of tuition based on published UB policy. A student who stops attending a course without withdrawing will earn a grade of “F” for the course and will be ineligible for tuition refund. • Withdrawal during Withdrawal Period: If a student officially withdraws from a course after the official change of registration period, but before the end of the official withdrawal period, a grade of “W” is assigned, and that course remains on the student’s transcript. Courses with the grade of “W” do not count toward the QPR but do count toward the “hours attempted.” The university registrar determines the final eligibility date for withdrawal each semester. Students may not withdraw from a course after that date.

• Late Withdrawal after Withdrawal Period: A student may petition for a late withdrawal (due to serious personal or medical circumstances) after the withdrawal period has ended. The student must submit the petition to his/her director of the Nutrition program. The Director, Dean and the Provost, in

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their absolute (good faith) discretion, must approve the petition. If granted, the grade is assigned as “W”. If denied, the student will earn the grade received in the course (e.g. C, D, F).

• Administrative Withdrawal Following Dismissal: If a student is dismissed from UBNI during the

semester, s/he is administratively withdrawn from all courses and grades are assigned as described above (Withdrawal during Withdrawal Period).

• Drop for Never Attending Class: If a student does not participate in the first week of a course, s/he will

automatically be dropped from the course. All University fees are non-refundable after the first day of the semester and tuition will be due according to the schedule available at http://www.bridgeport.edu/finaid/tuition-and-fees/refunds/

Verbal notification will NOT be accepted as an official withdrawal from class. Written verification must be forwarded to the Nutrition Institute and also the University of Bridgeport, Registrar’s Office, 126 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06601. Withdrawals may also be completed online at www.bridgeport.edu/webadvisor. An email should also be sent to the Nutrition Institute program coordinator, Carla DeLucia, at cdelucia@bridgeport.edu.

Any course with a grade of C- or a numerical grade of 73 or less must be repeated to earn graduate credit. Other courses may be repeated if the student needs to raise the GPA. When a course is repeated, only the second grade will be used to calculate the GPA. Tuition must be paid again for all classes that are required to be re-taken (no exceptions). Evaluation and grading are the responsibility and province of the professor. All students in a course will be graded consistently or equivalently. Students may be penalized for late or missed work. Questions regarding grades should be addressed to the course professor. Special Grading for 560N, 560U, AND 560V 560N, 560U, and 560V are foundational courses that must be mastered to prepare students for the deeper exploration of clinical nutrition. These courses must be completed with a grade of B or above to progress in the MS program. Special Grading for Virtual Clinic (560K) The Virtual Clinic (VC) is divided into 4 distinct modules. To successfully complete the VC, students are required to earn a grade of C (75) or better for each module. If a student fails one module, they will receive a grade of “I” for the course and the failed module can be re-taken the next time the course is offered. Grading for Comprehensive Exam (600N)

At the conclusion of the program, students must take an exam for each of the following courses: 560A, 560B, 560C, 560D, 560E, 560F, 560G, 560H, 560I, 560P. Students who did not take a course due to advanced standing are not required to take that exam. Passing grade for each exam is 60. All sections of the comp exam must be passed in order to earn a satisfactory (S) grade for the comp exam. The comp exam grade is not calculated into the students’ GPA.

If a section or sections of the comp exam are failed, those exams must be re-taken. If any sections are failed a second time, a third and final attempt is permitted. It is suggested (but not required) that course(s) failed after a second attempt be audited to support mastery of the material. When auditing a course, the student should do all coursework required and will be given a grade of satisfactory or unsatisfactory at the end of the course. In the event of three unsuccessful attempts on any exam, the student may petition to take the exam a fourth time. In the petition, the student will explain how they will master the material for the next exam attempt. A decision will be made by the director on a case by case basis.

Academic Honors Cum laude, magna cum laude or summa cum laude are awarded to students who complete the UBNI program with honors. These honors are calculated based on all course work completed in the MS in Nutrition program. Courses transferred from other institutions are not calculated into the UB GPA. Cum laude is awarded to graduates who have obtained a cumulative GPA of 3.60 to 3.74. Magna cum laude is awarded to graduates who

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have obtained a cumulative GPA of 3.75 to 3.89. Summa cum laude is awarded to graduates who have obtained a cumulative GPA of 3.90 to 4.00.

Grade Disputes A disputed grade may be appealed in writing as follows: First Appeal: Directly to the instructor within 10 days of receipt of grade Second Appeal: To Director of Nutrition Institute within 10 days after the date that the instructor decision was made Third Appeal: To the Provost within 15 days of receipt of the decision from the second appeal For more details on the academic grievance procedure, please see p. 34 in the Key to UB. https://files.bridgeport.edu/public/StudentLife/KeytoUB/Key_to_UB.pdf

h. Maintenance of Good Academic Standing and Academic Sanctions • Maintenance of Good Academic Standing Good academic standing is achieved when a student maintains a 3.0 GPA. If the GPA drops below 3.0, the student will be placed on academic probation. A student, who receives a second grade of “D” or “F” in any course, or is placed on probation in two different semesters, will be separated from the program. In cases of academic probation, the student should consult with the Program Director for advice and planning to raise the GPA. In cases of separation from the program, a student may make a written appeal to the Director within ten days of the notification of separation. If an appeal is granted, the student will remain on academic probation and his/her progress will be monitored periodically during the semester.

• Academic Integrity

A high standard of ethical conduct is expected of all students in this program and cheating is not tolerated in any form. This includes, but is not limited to, plagiarism and cheating on exams. The full definition of cheating and plagiarism can be found in the Key to UB, Ch 2 pp 33-34: https://files.bridgeport.edu/public/StudentLife/KeytoUB/Key_to_UB.pdf

Students are also highly encouraged to take the on-line tutorial in avoiding unintentional plagiarism at http://www.indiana.edu/~istd/

During their studies in the University of Bridgeport Nutrition Institute, students may find themselves writing for a second, third, or fourth time on the same topic. Regardless, their writing is expected to reflect new approaches and insights into that topic to demonstrate their intellectual growth. If any student is found to be submitting an assignment that they have previously submitted for this or any other course, a zero will be given for that assignment. This is a form of self-plagiarism and will be taken very seriously. This also applies if you have to repeat a course due to a poor grade. Original work must be submitted each time. Please be advised that UB faculty have access to Turn-It-In software which scans electronically for plagiarism from any published source and student assignments may be screened using this tool.

o Ethics Statement of Confidentiality

Students enrolled in the program are expected to honor confidentiality as it pertains to student disclosure. Shared information, comments, or opinions expressed by another student or the faculty member during the course of classroom discussion should never be used in a manner which is intended to humiliate, embarrass, harass, damage, or otherwise injure other students in their personal, public, or business lives. In addition, confidentiality must be upheld by not disclosing any information that would identify any particular individual or plagiarize their personal work.

o Academic Discipline Procedures

• Discipline for Violations of Academic Integrity Policy (e.g. plagiarism, cheating) UBNI follows the University’s Academic Integrity Policy, Principles and Procedures, as

well as the related discipline and disciplinary procedures for academic dishonesty. Please see

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Chapter two of the Key to UB, available at: http://www.bridgeport.edu/docs/StudentLife/KeytoUB/Key_to_UB.pdf

• Academic Dismissal for Poor Academic Performance If the student meets the UBNI criteria for academic dismissal (defined above in section

3h), the Director or Associate Director shall notify the student in writing that s/he is dismissed from the program (the “Decision”). In the event that the student is not satisfied with the Decision, then the student may file a formal grievance, following the procedure found on p. 34 of the Key to UB available at: http://www.bridgeport.edu/docs/StudentLife/KeytoUB/Key_to_UB.pdf i. Transfer Credit

It is the student’s responsibility to submit official transcripts immediately upon completion of all required courses if taken at other institutions. The Program Director, with the Dean’s approval, may allow up to six semester hours (eight hours in the case of laboratory courses) of graduate transfer credits from a regionally accredited college or university. The courses being considered for transfer must have been completed within the past ten years, with a grade of “B” or better, and be comparable to the University of Bridgeport’s graduate courses. Physicians (i.e.: medical, osteopathic, chiropractic, naturopathic, etc.) may request advanced standing for 560A and 560B. However, many choose to take 560B (Nutritional Biochemistry) if they have not had the course in many years, as a review and preparation for course 560D (Clinical Biochemistry). Advanced transfer credit for physicians will only be granted for courses where a grade of “B” or better was achieved.

j. Graduation Requirements The minimum number of credits required for graduation is 35 plus up to 9 credits of prerequisites; the minimum GPA required is 3.0. Students are expected to complete class work for the degree within five years of initial enrollment in the program. Successful completion of all sections of the comprehensive competency examination is required for graduation. This examination and all required re-takes are given online on a specific Sunday three times annually (exact dates published several months prior to each examination). It will not be available on alternate days of the week (no exceptions). Study guides will be available to all students eligible to sit for the examination. Any sections that are not successfully completed must be re-taken at assigned dates.

k. Progression and Retention Policy To progress in the UBNI program, students must meet the following requirements:

• All courses run concurrently and have pre-requisite and /or co-requisite course requirements. All course requirements must be successfully completed in the prescribed order according to the curriculum plan. All courses must achieve a “C” (2.0 or a grade of 74 or higher). A grade of 73 or below does not meet the progression standards. Students who are not compliant with the progression policy will not be able to advance to the next course. This will result in academic sanctions, up to and including dismissal.

• All courses are taken in the specified sequence. An individual course may be repeated only

once. A second failed attempt of the same course (below a grade of 74) will result in dismissal from the program. Throughout the program, a student may repeat no more than two separate courses.

• GPA of 3.0 must be maintained throughout the program. If the GPA drops below 3.0, the student

will be placed on academic probation. A student who receives a second grade of “D” or “F” in any course, or is placed on probation in two different semesters, will be separated from the program. In cases of academic probation, the student should consult with the Program Director for advice and planning to raise the GPA.

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4. Leave of Absence, Readmission and Withdrawal a. Leave of Absence (less than one academic year) When a student wishes to voluntarily interrupt

his/her studies, h/she must complete a “Leave of Absence Form” from the Office of the Registrar or online portal, which must be submitted to the Dean and approved by student’s advisor, Dean, Student Financial Services, the Office of the Registrar, and the Office of the Provost (if leave is sought after the end of the official withdrawal period). The decision to grant or deny leave is made in the sole (good faith) discretion of the Dean.

A student may take one (1) leave of absence during his/her tenure in the MS in Nutrition program, and that leave may be taken for up to one (1) calendar year. All students must complete the MS in Nutrition program within 5 years.

Please see the “Grades” Section of this Chapter for determination of academic status (i.e. grades assigned to students who take a leave of absence).

Students receiving financial aid should consult the Financial Aid Office prior to taking leave.

A student (in good financial standing) wishing to return from an approved leave of absence, must file a “Request for Return from Leave of Absence” with the Dean, which must be approved by the student’s advisor, Dean, Student Financial Services, and the Office of the Registrar. The Dean may require confirmation that the condition giving rise to the leave has been resolved sufficiently for the student to resume studies. The “Request for a Return from Leave of Absence” form must be completed (with all signatures and information) before the student is allowed to register for classes.

A medical leave of absence requires medical documentation from a physician that states that the leave is necessary. Before returning to the program, the student must provide medical clearance that allows full participation in academic and clinical activities.

Involuntary Leave of Absence: Please see Chapter Six of the Key to UB.

b. Readmission for Students Requesting to Return to the UBNI Program after One Academic Year

Students who are absent from the MS in nutrition program for more than one academic year are not eligible to return to the program or course last attended. These former students (who have officially or unofficially withdrawn or taken a leave of absence from the UBNI program) must apply for readmission. These students are required to submit a new application and are evaluated as a prospective applicant. Students who have attended another accredited institution in the interim must present complete official transcripts with their application for readmission. If re-admitted, these students are evaluated by the Director for appropriate placement in the Nutrition program on a case by case basis.

c. Withdrawing from the MS in Nutrition Program

A student considering withdrawing from UBNI is encouraged to discuss the issue with his/her faculty advisor and Director prior to withdrawal. Once a decision to resign is reached, the student must

complete an “Application to Withdraw” from the Office of the Registrar or online portal, which must be submitted to the Dean and approved by the student’s advisor, Director, Student Financial Services, Office of the Registrar, and Office of the Provost (if withdrawal is sought after the end of the official withdrawal period). The student must also conduct an exit interview with the Director.

Please see the “Grades” Section of this Chapter for determination of academic status (i.e. grades assigned to students who withdraw.

Tuition refunds will be awarded in accordance with the University’s refund policies, as stated in the University’s Tuition Refund Policy at http://www.bridgeport.edu/finaid/tuition-and-fees/refunds/.

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If a student fails to register for a semester without being granted a leave of absence, or the leave of absence has expired, the student will be administratively withdrawn from the University.

Once a student has made the decision to voluntarily withdraw, s/he may reapply for readmission the following semester. If re-admitted, these students are evaluated by the Director for appropriate placement in the UBNI program on a case by case basis.

d. Circumstances Where Re-Application is Prohibited

Students who have been academically dismissed from UBNI are prohibited from re-applying to UBNI.

5. Disciplinary Action for Professional and Behavioral Issues

a. Rules for Student Conduct Students in the UBNI Program are required to conduct themselves in a manner compatible with the high standards of the Nutritionist profession. Students are required to be familiar with and adhere to the professional and ethical standards set forth in this Student Handbook, as well as the University’s student conduct requirements set forth in Chapters Two and Five of the Key to UB.

The following non-exhaustive list of prohibited professional conduct is subject to discipline, up to and including dismissal: • Being found guilty, pleading guilty, or pleading no contest to any felony, crime involving moral turpitude,

or offense affecting professional integrity. • Engaging in unprofessional care or practice with or on clients. • Engaging in fraudulent or unscrupulous behavior related to one’s participation in the Program or any

professional activities. • Engaging in behavior that creates safety hazards and/or disrupts the well-being of one’s peers, fellow

students, faculty, supervisors, patients, or other third parties. • Identifying oneself as a licensed or certified nutritionist or failing to identify oneself as a student. • Violation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). • Failure to follow protocol or directions of clinical supervisor or UBNI faculty. • Performing unauthorized procedures or administering services not permitted by the supervisor, the

facility, or UBNI. • Leaving the clinical setting without permission of supervisor. • Failure to report all observed unethical conduct by other members of the health profession, including other

students.

b. Discipline for Student Conduct Any member of the University community may bring charges against a student for violations of the professional, ethical, and/or behavioral requirements stated in this Handbook. The complainant shall submit the charges in writing to the Director of the Program.

Upon receiving the charges, the Director will investigate the written documentation and charges and determine if an Academic, Background and Conduct (ABC) Committee review is warranted.

At least seven (7) calendar days before the ABC Committee hearing, the Chairman will formally notify the concerned parties of the charges, as well as the date and location of the hearing. A range of sanctions are provided by the Director to the ABC Committee based on the UBNI Student Handbook.

At the hearing, the following rules apply: • The Chairperson shall state the charges brought against the student, and present any evidence provided

to the ABC Committee in support thereof. • The student will have the opportunity to be heard in his/her own defense by presenting a statement

(written or oral), testimony, and/or evidence.

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• The student will have opportunity to hear and review all evidence brought against him or her, as well to question all witnesses.

• The ABC Committee shall have the right to question and cross examine all witnesses, and to speak openly during the hearing.

• The ABC Committee is not bound by the rules of evidence and may consider any evidence presented for inclusion into the proceedings.

• The hearing is not subject to the rules governing a legal proceeding and the student is not entitled to legal representation. The student may have an advisor (faculty member, friend, etc.) at the hearing, but the advisor may not participate.

• Hearing minutes shall be transcribed and made available to the student upon written request to the Chairperson of the Committee. After reviewing the evidence and the testimony, the ABC Committee will render a written decision. A copy of the decision will be provided to the student within 14 days of the hearing at his/her University email address and/or last known address on record with the University.

c. Appeal

To appeal the decision of the ABC Committee, the student must submit a written request in writing to the Office of the Provost within ten (10) days of decision being rendered. The request must specifically state the grounds for appeal, including a narrative of relevant facts and any other pertinent information. The Provost, Deputy Provost, or his/her designee shall consider the matter, conduct any further review which may be deemed appropriate, and notify the student in writing of his/her decision (and the grounds therefore) within 15 days following receipt of the appeal or conclusion of investigation (whichever is later). The Office of the Provost decision is final.

6. Additional UBNI Program Policies

a. Social Media Policy Students who use social media are expected to do so responsibly, thoughtfully, lawfully, and in a manner befitting of a member of the nutrition profession. The following behavior is specifically prohibited: (1) violating the intellectual property rights of the University or any third party; (2) disclosing confidential, private information of third parties or the University (e.g. sharing any client (or mock client) data on a social media platform); (3) providing health/medical information without expressly disclaiming that student is not licensed/certified and the information contained therein is not endorsed by the University (see paragraph below for more information); or (4) violating any applicable UBNI or University policy, including but not limited to: (a) the professional and behavioral requirements contained in this Handbook and (b) the University’s Code of Community Standards (Chapter Four) and/or “Acceptable Use” guidelines (Chapter Six) of the Key to UB. Students are strongly encouraged to think carefully about the comments they post in the public domain (including any personal social media sites), as such publicly available content may have serious academic and professional consequences. When posting on a personal social media site, students are prohibited from: (1) using the University logo on his/her site without approval from a University administrator; or (2) using the University name or logo to promote or endorse any product, practice, or political views. Students are encouraged to clearly state that any views shared are her/his own, and not made on behalf of the University. Students are personally responsible for the content published on their own social media accounts, and for acting in a manner that is responsible, respectful, and devoid of any threatening, intimidating, or ill-mannered content. Any violation of this policy should be immediately reported to the Dean/Director for referral to the Promotion and Retention Committee or other applicable University procedure. b. Netiquette (Online Etiquette)

● Respect others and their opinions. In online learning, students from various backgrounds come together to learn. It is important to respect their feelings and opinions though they may differ from your own.

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● Tone down your language. Given the absence of face-to-face clues, written text can easily be misinterpreted. Avoid the use of strong or offensive language and the excessive use of exclamation points. Review before posting in order to remove any strong language.

● Keep personal discussions off of the class discussion board and engage in a separate student forum within the class for this or use email.

● Do not type all capitals, which is difficult to read, and has come to be considered the electronic version of “shouting.”

● Do be courteous, even when you disagree, with your instructors as well as your classmates, and always provide clear, logical support for your views.

● Consider others’ privacy. Ask for permission if you want to forward someone’s email messages to third parties. Keep in mind that all private email is considered copyrighted by the original author.

● Avoid inappropriate material. ● Be forgiving. If someone states something that you find offensive, mention this directly to the instructor.

Remember that the person contributing to the discussion might be new to this form of communication. What you find offensive may quite possibly have been unintended and can best be cleared up by the instructor. If the instructor is unable to resolve the issue, they should escalate to the associate director, as should the student.

● Think before you hit the send button. Think carefully about the content of your message before distributing it. Once sent to the group, there is no taking it back. Grammar and spelling errors reflect on you and your audience might not be able to decode misspelled words or poorly constructed sentences. It can also adversely affect your grade.

• Resolve your issues privately via email versus discussion forums. Should you have a disagreement with an instructor or classmate, it is best to send an individual email or voicemail to that individual. Do not argue your case in the discussion forum.

● Brevity is best. Be as concise as possible when contributing to a discussion. Your points might me missed if hidden in a flood of text.

Avoid disciplinary action. Any type of online behavior that is perceived as disrespectful to a fellow student or instructor, or anything that has the potential to be perceived as less than courteous is unacceptable and can be subject to disciplinary action by the Nutrition Institute. Repetition of such behavior can result in expulsion from the class and/or the program, by the Director.

c. Communication and Scheduling with Faculty Faculty make every effort to be available to students. Office hours for faculty are posted each semester. If a student cannot meet with faculty during these times, the student should communicate this with the faculty via Canvas Inbox so that another mutually convenient time may be arranged. Student emails will be answered within 48 business hours.

d. Change in Contact Information Students must notify the Nutrition Institute program coordinator and the Registrar’s Office of any change in contact information.

e. Graduation

UB students can graduate (receive a diploma) 3 times during the year- May, August, and December, depending on completion of their program. However, the commencement ceremony for Nutrition students is only held once yearly on campus in May. Students who have graduated the preceding December, as well as those graduating in May and August may participate in the May commencement ceremony.

f. Professional Organizations Professional organizations play a vital role in strengthening the nutrition profession. All students are encouraged to become members of American Nutrition Association (ANA). To learn about membership cost and benefits, go here: https://theana.org/membership

g. Certification and Licensure Each state has its own guidelines on licensing for nutritionists. Please check with your state to determine licensing requirements and scope of practice.

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Certification is provided by several national organizations and is separate from state licensing. Some of the most common certifying organizations are:

https://nutritionspecialists.org/ https://www.cncb.org/ https://www.nanp.org/board-certification

7. University Policies

UBNI adheres to all University policies as stated in the Key to UB and the Catalog, unless otherwise stated in this Handbook. For the complete set of University policies, please refer to the current versions of the Key to UB and the Catalog. For excerpts of certain University policies, please see below:

a. Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policies

The University of Bridgeport is committed to preventing or eliminating all forms of gender-based discrimination in its education programs or activities in accordance with its commitment to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. The University prohibits discrimination in admissions, educational programs and services, and employment on the basis of race, color, religious creed, age, marital status, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, veteran status and any other basis protected by law. The University of Bridgeport’s Title IX Coordinator is Diane Charles: phone (203) 576-4454, email: titleIX@bridgeport.edu. Please see Chapter Six of the Key to UB, for a complete version of this policy, as well as the website.

b. Student Accessibility Services

The Office of Student Accessibility Services offers a private and confidential atmosphere for students to talk about their disabilities and accommodation requests. We are committed to providing services to qualified students with disabilities so that they receive an equal educational opportunity. In compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act and Connecticut state laws, we provide reasonable accommodations to reduce the impact of disabilities on academic functioning or upon other life activities in the University setting. The University respects the student’s right to disclose or not to disclose a disability. However, the University is not responsible for providing services or accommodations for students who do not disclose a disability to the Office of Student Accessibility Services in a timely fashion.

To receive services or accommodations, students must provide appropriate documentation. Please contact the UB Director of Student Accessibility Services at 203-576- 4454 or via email to: accessiblityservices@bridgeport.edu when requesting accommodations. All accommodations are determined on an individual basis. Please see the Key to UB for further information as well as the following website: https://www.bridgeport.edu/student-accessibility.

Requests for assistance and accommodations must be initiated by the student, preferably at least one month prior to the beginning of each academic semester. It is the student's responsibility to provide each professor with the appropriate documentation at the beginning of each semester.

*Faculty are required to carry out all the accommodations outlined on the accommodation form provided by the student services counselling center. If accommodations are denied, the student must immediately inform the Director or his/her designate.

c. Policy on Sexual and Gender-Based Interpersonal Violence and Harassment

The University of Bridgeport is committed to providing an environment free from gender-based discrimination and harassment. Consistent with the University’s commitment to equal opportunity and non-discrimination, the University strictly prohibits Sexual Assault, Sexual Exploitation, Dating, Relationship or Domestic Partner Violence, Stalking, Sexual or Gender-Based Harassment, or Retaliation

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against a person for the good faith reporting of these forms of conduct or participation in an investigation or proceeding under this Policy.

The University of Bridgeport’s Title IX Coordinator is Diane Charles: phone (203) 576-4454, email: titleIX@bridgeport.edu. Please see Chapter Six of the Key to UB, for a complete version of this policy, as well as the website.

d. Student Financial Services’ Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy

Subsidized and unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans are available for qualified students who register for a minimum of six credits each semester. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and a University of Bridgeport Financial Aid Application must be completed. Many employers offer scholarships and /or tuition reimbursement programs. Contact the Financial Aid Office at (203) 576-4568 or sfs@bridgeport.edu for more information.

Please see the following information regarding requisite academic progress to receive financial aid, as required by federal law: Financial Aid Eligibility

e. Grievances/Complaints

UBNI does not prohibit any student from filing an inquiry or complaint regarding the Program’s operation. While students are encouraged to speak with their instructor first, they may meet with the appropriate director or dean for questions, concerns, or resolution of issues.

For the following student grievance procedures, please refer to Chapter Six of the Key to UB: Student Grievance Procedure, Grievance Procedures under Title IX and Title VI, and Disability Grievance Procedure. For the Academic Grievance Procedure (e.g. grades), please see Chapter Two of the Key to UB.

8. University Resources and Services a. Student Financial Services

Aid to students is subject to so much change that to take proper advantage of it, you must keep yourself informed on a continuing basis regarding available benefits, eligibility and procedures for obtaining it. The Student Financial Services office can offer you current information and assistance in applying. The Student Financial Services Office can be contacted at (203) 576-4568 or sfs@bridgeport.edu.

b. Registrar

The Office of the Registrar can be contacted at (203) 576-4634 or registrar@bridgeport.edu. i. Official transcripts (those with university seal) are not released to students. They will be mailed directly to any authorized agency such as a state board, educational institution, professional society or organization. To request an official transcript, complete and sign a Transcript Request Form at the Registrar’s Office or submit an online form. There is a fee for each transcript. Transcript requests will not be honored if there is any financial indebtedness to the School and/or University. ii. Academic Records The Registrar maintains students’ permanent academic records. Shortly after the end of each semester, students will receive a free student copy of the academic record for that semester. iii. Registration Please refer to the UBNI Academic Calendar for specific dates pertaining to fall, spring, and summer registration. New students are registered through batch registration via the Director of Admissions and UB Registrar’s Office. Continuing students who are in good academic standing would register via online registration. Students who are not in good academic standing will not be able to register. iv. Name Change The School considers your name to be the name that appears on your application for admission. Your name, in this form, is entered into our computer and will appear in this form on all the UBNI documents. A Legal Name Change Form is available in the Registrar’s Office, which you

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may complete and submit with legal documentation to change the official name by which you are referred to on all of the UBNI records.

c. Counseling Services

Counseling Services offers psychological treatment opportunities to all undergraduate and graduate students. Services include short-term individual counseling, group counseling, psychiatric service, outreach programs, crisis intervention, mental health screenings, and referral services. Counseling Services also offers consultations to faculty and staff that need assistance with students in distress. All services are designed to promote personal growth and emotional wellbeing, while enhancing students’ ability to benefit from the University environment and academic experience. We are particularly aware of the cultural issues facing international students and offer supportive counseling to address their needs. For more information call (203) 576-4454 or email: counselingservices@bridgeport.edu.

d. Bookstore The UB Bookstore is located in the lower level of the John J. Cox Student Center. BBA Solutions, under the University guidelines, takes ownership of the Bookstore. The University of Bridgeport Bookstore carries all the required textbooks and supplies for classes offered at the University. The bookstore can be reached at (203) 576-4804 or email ubcampusstore@yahoo.com.

e. The Wahlstrom Library offers a digital library with OneSearch. OneSearch is software, with multiple academic research databases sitting behind it as well as thousands of individual subscriptions. It allows the user to search multiple databases at the same time, linking them to the full text whenever possible no matter where the full-text is housed. Via proxy and Shibboleth technology, students access these resources on campus or off seamlessly. The library Information Literacy Program is designed to teach students how to use and contribute to the major conversations in their field and how they themselves can become both educated consumers and creators of this type of peer-reviewed information. For additional information about the library, call 203-576-4747, email reference@bridgeport.edu, stop in the Wahlstrom Library building, or go to https://library.bridgeport.edu.

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Acknowledgment of Understanding and Acceptance of UB and UBNI Policies

I have read the above policies and guidelines and have been given a copy of said policies and guidelines. Submission of the Syllabus and Student Handbook Agreement and Technology Back-up Plan quiz (found in each NI course) reflects acceptance of these policies and guidelines and all revisions made to them during the course of my studies in the UB Master of Nutrition program. This acknowledgement is required to proceed in each NI course.

All updates and/or changes will be furnished to me in each course by the professor.

rev August 2021