SRPH Student Handbook by Texas A&M Health Science Center

School of Rural Public Health

STUDENT HANDBOOK 2011-2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

DISCLAIMER AND WAIVER NOTIFICATIONS NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY

PROGRAMS CURRICULAR GOALS & OBJECTIVES PROGRAM OVERVIEWS

7 7

MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH PROGRAMS (MPH) CORE COMPETENCIES LEARNING OBJECTIVES BY DEGREE PROGRAM & CONCENTRATIONS Biostatistics Epidemiology Environmental Health Health Policy & Management Social & Behavioral Health

9 9 9 10 10 10 11

RESEARCH & DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS – (M.S.P.H. & Dr.P.H.) MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PUBLIC HEALTH (M.S.P.H.) Biostatistics Epidemiology Environmental Health Occupational Health Health Policy & Management Social & Behavioral Health

12 12 12 13 13 14

DOCTOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH (DR.P.H.) Epidemiology & Environmental Health Social & Behavioral Health

15 15

ACADEMIC REGULATIONS ATTENDANCE & ABSENTEEISM POLICIES AUTHORIZED TO ATTEND CLASS

HOLIDAYS

RELIGIOUS HOLY DAYS

CHANGE OF DEPARTMENT, CONCENTRATION, DEGREE PROGRAM

COURSEWORK & RECORDS CORE COURSE SUBSTITUTIONS

CONCENTRATION COURSE SUBSTITUTIONS

COURSE SCHEDULES

REGISTRATION

DEGREE PLANS

CO-ENROLLING AT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

COURSE EVALUATION PROCESS

GRADES GRADE POINT AVERAGE CALCULATIONS & MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

GRADE DISTRIBUTION & PRIVACY ISSUES

ACCESS TO GRADES

IN PROGRESS GRADES

ACADEMIC STANDING GOOD ACADEMIC STANDING

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY & DISHONESTY ISSUES

SUSPENSION, DISMISSAL & EXPULSION

PROFESSIONALISM HONESTY

RESEARCH

CRITICISM OF COLLEAGUES

PROFESSIONAL DEMEANOR & APPEARANCE

DISRUPTION IN THE CLASSROOM

SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY

STUDENT CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS & DRUG SCREENING

AWARDS & HONORS GRADUATING WITH HONORS

DELTA OMEGA HONOR SOCIETY

DEPARTMENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

DEAN’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE

RESEARCH AWARD

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

26 26 26

GRADUATION

SPRING COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY

CLASS RING

STUDENT SERVICES TAMU SERVICES PROVIDED TO SRPH STUDENTS

COUNSELING (General, Personal, Special Services & Accommodations)

HSC DIVISION OF STUDENT SERVICES

THE ROLE OF THE REGISTRAR (FERPA)

CAREER SERVICES

STUDENT LIFE ISSUES UNIVERSAL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (UIN)

GRADUATE STUDENT INSURANCE

TRAVEL SAFETY GUIDELINES

STUDENT SAFETY & BUILDING HOURS

PARKING & TRANSPORTATION ISSUES

USE OF PHONE, FAX MACHINES, PRINTERS & COPIERS

COMPUTER LAB PRINTNG QUOTA

COMPUTER ACCESS

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS & COMMITTEES

RECOGNITION & APPROVAL PROCESS Required Documentation for Proposal Required Review & Approval for a New Student Organization

RECOGNIZED SRPH STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

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

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 > CollegeSpecific 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.

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.

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. 3

MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH PROGRAMS

CORE COMPETENCIES: At the conclusion of the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. SRPHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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; 4

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; 5

7. apply quality and performance improvement concepts to address organizational performance issues; 8. apply â&#x20AC;&#x153;systems thinkingâ&#x20AC;? 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.

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 workrelated 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.

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 workrelated 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.

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.

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. 10

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.

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.

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.

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 coenrollment 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 openended 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 14

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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

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&Mâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

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. 24

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. 25

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: Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree Program level - Fall/Spring Semester quota - 750 pages per semester Doctoral Degree Program level - Fall/Spring Semester quota â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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, CEOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

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 29