Students who desire a personal or medical leave of absence should submit their request in writing per the policy outlined below as soon as possible to discuss options and an academic plan. The policy does not guarantee that all students on leave of absence will graduate on time, or that all leave of absence requests will be approved.
The total time spent on a leave of absence may not exceed one year unless specifically approved by the PSPC. To document Readiness to Return and fulfillment of the Technical Standards, returning students must have the approval of the PSPC of the completed Individual Readiness Plan. A Fitness for Duty Evaluation my also be required.
Leave of Absence – Academic
The PSPC may place a student on academic leave of absence for failure to make adequate academic progress towards a program defined competency. Examples include, but are not limited to, failure of multiple must pass exams during the didactic year, failure of any didactic course, failure of a clinical rotation course, or multiple/egregious professionalism lapses. Only the PSPC in accordance with the COM SPAS Readiness to Return policy can approve the return to registration from an academic leave of absence.
Leave of Absence – Medical
The Associate Program Director may approve a leave of absence of up to two weeks for compelling medical issues that are temporarily impeding a student’s academic progress. Examples include, but are not limited to, parental, surgery, or mental health conditions. The PSPC and relevant course directors will be notified that a leave of absence has been granted. If the leave extends for more than two weeks or if a subsequent leave of absence is requested in the same academic year, the student must make a leave request to the PSPC. This should include documentation from a treating practitioner, a proposed return date and an academic plan and schedule. The request must be approved by the PSPC. Students returning must present an updated academic plan and documentation to the PSPC that their medical situation has resolved or is being appropriately addressed, and that they are fit to resume their medical studies (e.g., health care provider letter and/or cognitive testing results).
Leave of Absence – Personal
The Associate Program Director may approve a leave of absence of up to two weeks for compelling personal issues that are temporarily impeding a student’s academic progress. Examples include, but are not limited to, care for an immediate family member or parental time for a birth, adoption, or fostering a child. The PSPC and relevant course directors will be notified that the leave of absence has been granted. If the leave extends for more than two weeks, the student must submit a request for extension, which includes an academic plan and schedule, to the PSPC for approval. Students returning must present an updated academic plan and documentation to the PSPC.