University Policies

Academic Credit Hour Definition

Minnesota State Mankato’s definition of a credit hour is based on the federal definition (34CFR 600.2; 11/1/2010) of a credit hour.

Academic Forgiveness for Undergraduate Students

Academic Forgiveness gives an undergraduate student a one-time opportunity to establish a new Grade Point Average (GPA).

Academic Honesty

As members of this University community, students assume the responsibility to fulfill their academic obligations in a fair and honest manner.

Academic Standing for Undergraduate Students

Undergraduate students at Minnesota State Mankato are expected to meet academic standards set by the university and to demonstrate satisfactory academic progress towards earning a degree.

Acceptance and Evaluation of Undergraduate Transfer Credits

The policy hereafter is applicable to undergraduate-level coursework.

Acceptance of Materials/Hazardous Waste Donations

It is the policy of Minnesota State University Mankato to exercise due diligence in assessing materials or property being considered for use as part of a new or changing academic programing or university operations. 

Access for Students with Disabilities

Minnesota State University, Mankato recognizes that disability is an aspect of diversity and students with disabilities must be ensured equitable access to programs, opportunities, and activities at the University.

Admission, Continuance and Completion in a Major

In order to support students' learning and success in completion of their undergraduate education, Minnesota State University, Mankato establishes and upholds standards of performance within academic majors.

Alcohol and Other Drugs

The possession, consumption, manufacture, sale, and/or distribution of alcohol, marijuana in any form, illicit drugs and/or illicit drug paraphernalia are prohibited.

Building Access

When a University building’s exterior doors are unlocked, the building is open and the common areas are available for use by University community members.

Camera and Video Footage Use

Minnesota State University, Mankato operates a video camera security system for the purpose of creating a safer environment for all those who live, work and visit the campus.

Campus Communication and Mass E-mail

This policy establishes e-mail as the official channel of communication at Minnesota State University, Mankato for communications that do not require physical delivery of a document.

Campus Demonstrations

Minnesota State University, Mankato will protect the rights of freedom of speech and peacful assembly as set forth in the U.S. Constitution.

Clery Act

Minnesota State University Mankato is committed to the safety and well-being of all members of the University community. Minnesota State University Mankato will comply with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics originally known as the Campus Security Act, and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) amendments to the Clery Act.

Conflict of Financial Interest with Grants and Sponsored Programs

When the University engages in or intends to engage in a sponsored project with an external organization, or has subcontracted or intends to subcontract with an external organization under a sponsored project.

Continuing Education and Customized Training

The Continuing Education and Customized Training (CE/CT) unit is recognized as the official CE/CT administration, registration and reporting unit for Minnesota State University, Mankato for all Continuing Education, Non-Credit, and Customized Training offerings.

Contracts

Minnesota State University, Mankato contractual obligations must conform to state and federal law.

Credit for Prior Learning for Undergraduate Students

Minnesota State University, Mankato University will allow a maximum of 60 credits of prior learning to satisfy a student’s undergraduate degree requirements.

Credit Overload for Undergraduate Students

Credit load is the number of credits in which a student is enrolled. Credit load is used to determine student status as a full-time or part-time student.

Crime Reporting Requirements

For the protection of all members of the Minnesota State University, Mankato community and to ensure compliance with state and federal legislation, any suspected criminal activity shall be immediately reported to University Security. The University also encourages the reporting of such activity to law enforcement agencies for prosecution through the criminal justice system.

Data Governance

This policy establishes University data governance roles and standards to ensure the integrity of University data, resulting in greater accuracy, timeliness, quality, and communication of information for decision-making.

Electronic Communications Publishing

Minnesota State University, Mankato’s mission reflects an institutional commitment to promote learning through effective undergraduate and graduate teaching, scholarship, and research in service to the state, the region, and the global community.

Electronic Recording of Lectures and Materials

Students are not permitted to record lectures or make electronic copies of course materials (e.g., slides, formulas, lecture notes) using personal recording devices (e.g., smart phone, tablet, computer, digital recorder) unless prior written permission from faculty is obtained and students who appear in the recordings or course materials do not object. The policy applies to all forms of course delivery (e.g., on-campus, online).

Emergency Closing

The authority to cancel classes, shift classes to remote delivery (e-learning), or close the University due to weather conditions or other emergencies resides with the President or his/her designee.

Emergency Notification

Minnesota State University, Mankato will issue notifications to staff and students as required by the Clery Act. Upon receiving information about an incident that poses a threat to the campus, University Security will determine which level of notification is appropriate for the situation. If it is a situation where there is an imminent/immediate threat to the campus community, University Security will issue an immediate Star Alert. For other types of alerts that involve less urgent/serious threats, before issuing alerts/notifications, University Security will consult with the Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management or another member of the Campus Emergency Response Team.

English Composition Placement

Students who have been admitted to an undergraduate degree program at Minnesota State University, Mankato and who need to fulfill General Education Goal Area 1, Part A are placed in a Composition course or course sequence based on their instructional needs. Course placements are made using students’ scores on the ACT, SAT, and/or Next Gen Accuplacer.

Equipment and Property

Ownership of all University property shall reside with the institution, while custody, control and usage is the responsibility of each unit.

Final Exam

The final week schedule is set by the Registrar’s Office before the start of a semester.

Fire Safety and Protection

In the event of a fire, abnormal heating of any material, an uncontrolled release of combustible or toxic gas or other material, or a flammable liquid spill emergency, the university will follow all local, state, and federal fire and/or building code requirements noted in or Fire Safety and Protection Procedures information.

Gender Neutral Restrooms

Campus facility renovation and new construction projects of sufficient scope will include at a minimum one single stall gender neutral restroom.

Grade Appeals

Students have the right to ask an instructor for an explanation of any grade received.

Grading

A student’s work in any course offered by Minnesota State University, Mankato will be evaluated in accordance with the following system of letter grades: A, B, C, D, F, P, NC, W, AU, I, IP, Z.

Graduate Assistantship

All graduate assistantships throughout the University are expected to elevate the quality and scope of graduate education by attracting high quality students into our graduate programs.

Graduate Enrollment

All graduate students who wish to continue to have access to university services and resources must register for at least one graduate-level credit.

Grilling

Open flame cooking devices such as gas or charcoal grills, smokers, fire pits and/or campfires are prohibited on University property unless preapproved via a university Grilling Permit Request.

Hosting Minors on Campus

The purpose of this policy is to describe requirements placed on administrators, faculty, staff, students, volunteers and others working with minors.

Illumination Standards

Minnesota State University, Mankato through its Facilities Management Physical Plant complies with Minnesota State Statutes, Governor’s Orders, and Federal Standards impacting heating, cooling, lighting, indoor air quality, and safety standards.

Information Privacy and Security

All University Divisions and Colleges are responsible for adopting the minimum-security standards as established by this policy and all supporting IT Solutions Standards and Procedures.

Lactation Spaces

Campus facility renovation and new construction projects of sufficient scope will include a private lactation space.

Last Day of Attendance

Last date of attendance information is collected from instructors at the time of grade entry via the electronic grading system for students who partially attended a course and earned an “F” or “NC” grade. It is also collected for students who “Never Attended” a course.

Lock, Key and Electronic Access Control

The intent of this policy is to maintain a safe and secure campus and provide routine access for each individual to areas required for their performance of their assigned use. Access to areas beyond that necessary for programmatic reasons will require increasingly higher approvals, as the scope becomes more encompassing.

Lost and Found

Minnesota State University, Mankato Security office located in Wiecking Center 222 is the main Lost and Found for Minnesota State Mankato.

Mathematics and Statistics Placement

Students seeking enrollment in Math 112: College Algebra, Math 201: Elements of Mathematics, or Stat 154: Elementary Statistics must demonstrate readiness to succeed in the course.

Missed Classes for University Sponsored or Sanctioned Activities and Makeup Work Policy

Students represent the university through participation in university-sponsored or -sanctioned activities, i.e. representing the university at off-campus co-curricular events.

Missing Residential Student

Any person who has reason to believe that a student who resides in on-campus housing is missing should immediately notify University Security.

Naming of Places or Landmarks on Campus

The naming of campus spaces should be done in alignment with the current mission, vision, values and diversity and inclusion goals of Minnesota State University, Mankato.

Non-Motorized Vehicles and Electric Mobility Devices

Minnesota State University, Mankato supports the safe and responsible use of non-motorized devices on its campus as a convenient, efficient and environmentally friendly transportation alternative when used safely and respectfully.

Outdoor Music Events

Requests for all outdoor events that require the use of amplified sound anywhere on campus require a Special Event Checklist form be submitted to University Scheduling and Conference Services at least two weeks prior to an event.

Parking and Transportation

Minnesota State University, Mankato permits are required for parking on campus except for metered stalls, the Visitor Pay Lot, and any lot designated as a “free parking” lot. Fees and procedures are approved annually by the University President (or designee).

Pets on Campus

The bringing of pets into University buildings is prohibited; those on University grounds must be under the owner’s supervision and control.  If security personnel discover a pet not under control, they will attempt to locate the owner before calling the city police. 

Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO)

The Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program offers an opportunity to earn high school and university credit simultaneously for eligible high school juniors and seniors. Students must meet PSEO admissions requirements to be eligible to participate in the PSEO program; admissions requirements vary according to high school grade level, as well as whether the student attends a high school that measures class rank or cumulative GPA.

Posting

Materials associated with specific academic and departmental information/activities may be posted by University personnel on bulletin boards (electronic and non-electronic) in departmental offices/areas and are not subject to approval via this policy.

Priority Registration

Early and priority registration is available to student groups or cohorts which have been approved by the University.

Professional Licensure Disclosure

In accordance with Title IV Federal Regulations 34 CFR 668.43 and 34 CFR 668.43, Minnesota State University, Mankato ensures that enrollment in academic programs that lead to professional licensure is informed by student location as defined in this policy. This policy does not supersede any other university and system policies that determine residency and definitions herein are not used for the purpose of tuition assessment.

Protection and Presence of Minors on Campus

The purpose of this policy is to describe requirements placed on administrators, faculty, staff, students, volunteers, and others working with minors to ensure their protection fulfill our obligations as mandated by law and provide the best possible experience for any minor visiting our campus or in university-related programs. This policy outlines the circumstances under which it is appropriate for minors to be present on the Minnesota State University, Mankato campus, or at additional University locations. The policy is intended to foster respect for the needs of all parties impacted by the presence of minors on campus, in the classroom, or the workplace.

Protection of Animals in Research

IACUC approval is required for all research directly involving animals, invertebrate and vertebrate, whether the animals are purchased or raised by the Minnesota State University, Mankato colony.

Protection of Human Subjects in Research

Raffles

Student organizations, campus departments and affiliated organizations may use raffles to raise funds in support of university related activities. These groups must ensure that such fundraising activities conform to Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Board Policy and Minnesota Statutes.

Recognition of Student Government

Minnesota State University, Mankato values student participation and involvement in campus governance.

Recognized Student Organizations, Privileges and Responsibilities

It is the intent of this policy to promote the formation of diverse student organizations; help coordinate and facilitate communication between student groups, faculty, and administrators; promote student involvement in organizations; assist students and organizations in taking full advantage of University resources and facilities; provide practical leadership opportunities for students; provide leadership training and education.

Responding to Issues of Research Misconduct

The research mission of the University is to advance the public knowledge base through competent and ethical and equitable investigation. Misconduct in research and scholarship activity undermines this mission and erodes the public trust in the University community to conduct research and communicate results using the highest standards and ethical and equitable practices. The University is responsible for promoting academic practices that prevent research misconduct and for developing policies and procedures for dealing with allegations of misconduct. All members of the University’s community—students, staff, faculty, and administrators—share responsibility for developing and maintaining standards to ensure ethical conduct of research and the detection and appropriate handling of abuse of these standards. This policy is a guide to add clarity to procedure should challenges or inquiry occur. This responsibility must be assumed while sustaining the openness and creativity vital to a spirit of inquiry.

Return of State of Minnesota Financial Aid for Official and Unofficial Withdrawals

The University will determine the amount of funds from Minnesota student financial aid programs that has been earned by a student who officially or unofficially withdraws, as well as any unearned portion that must be returned to the Minnesota Office of Higher Education.

Return of Title IV Federal Aid for Official and Unofficial Withdrawals

Financial aid is intended for students who are enrolled in and attending classes. There are timelines set up that regulate whether a student has earned all of his/her financial aid funds. If a student remains enrolled and continues to attend beyond those timelines, all Title IV federal aid is considered earned and does not need to be repaid back to the program/s. If a student withdraws or stops attending before those timelines, all or a portion of his/her financial aid funds may be required to be repaid back to the aid program/s.

Return to Work Policy for Non-Work Related Medical Conditions

This policy establishes guidelines to return employees to work who have non-work-related medical conditions that may have an impact on their ability to perform their job duties.  These guidelines are established to ensure employees do not aggravate existing medical conditions or suffer additional injuries when they return to work.

State Vehicle Usage

State vehicles are made available by Minnesota State University, Mankato solely for official business and related activities such as representing the University. They may be used by state employees, contract employees (with contractual authorization), and students.

Statement of Student Responsibilities

Students are dual members of the Minnesota State University, Mankato community and society. Good citizenship is expected of all students regardless of location. Students who engage in alleged violations of the “Statement of Student Responsibilities” policy may also face civil or criminal penalties.

Student Complaints and Grievances

Minnesota State University, Mankato has a commitment to a respectful learning environment. Students have the right to seek a remedy for when they believe a campus office/department or a Minnesota State employee treated them in an improper, unfair or arbitrary manner.

Student Education Records

Minnesota State University, Mankato complies with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA), the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and Minnesota Statute 135A.17 Provisions to Facilitate Voting, all of which govern privacy of student records.

Student Financial Aid Eligibility: Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards (SAPS)

Federal and State regulations require students receiving financial aid to meet Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards (SAPS). All degree-seeking students must meet both the qualitative and quantitative measures to remain eligible.

Student-Athlete Drug and Alcohol Testing and Education

Each student-athlete participating in Intercollegiate Athletics at Minnesota State University, Mankato will be required to sign a consent form agreeing to undergo random drug testing and authorize release of test results in accordance with the Minnesota State Mankato Student-Athlete Drug and Alcohol Education and Testing Program.

Telework

Minnesota State University, Mankato supports the practice of telecommuting when it is mutually beneficial to employee, student, and employer.

Text Messaging

As text messaging has become commonplace among students, faculty, and staff, it is important that Minnesota State University, Mankato protects our students from unwanted messages by complying with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing Act of 2003 (CAN-SPAM Act). Text messaging should be used to support and augment other types of messaging.

Tobacco and Smoke-Free Campus

The use, sale, or distribution of all tobacco products is prohibited at all times on all university property.  This policy applies to all students, employees, visitors, or any person on all University property.

Undergraduate Course Repeat

A course repeat occurs when a student retakes a course for which they have already received a grade of A, B, C, D (including shaded grades), P, F, NC, or W.  A student may repeat any one course no more than two (2) times. Under exceptional circumstances, students may submit a formal written appeal to repeat a course for a third time.

Undergraduate Requirements for Degree/Award

To be eligible for graduation with a baccalaureate degree, Associate of Arts Degree or an Undergraduate Certificate from Minnesota State University, Mankato, a student must meet certain criteria. Further requirements are needed to be meet to obtain Honors.

Undergraduate Student Degree Program Declaration

All new entering, degree-seeking first-time undergraduate students are required to declare a program of study (degree and major) no later than (completion of) 30 credit hours at Minnesota State University, Mankato. All new entering degree-seeking transfer students with 30 or more earned credits are expected to declare a program of study (degree and major) upon admission to Minnesota State Mankato.

University Admissions

The Office of University Admissions processes applications for undergraduate and graduate students and adheres to minimum university standards. Academic departments at the university determine admission requirements for academic programs and coordinate with the Admissions Office as it relates to reviewing application documents and communicating with students.

University Policy Development

Minnesota State University, Mankato establishes, revises and terminates University policies within a clearly defined process which includes the following components, broad campus participation, consolation with bargaining units, standard formats, schedule of review, review process, development of inclusive, non-discriminatory university policies and approval of President.

University Sponsored Affiliates

University-Sponsored Affiliates are individuals or related group of individuals authorized by the University through a contract or standing agreement to receive access to services typically granted only to those with an official academic or employment relationship (student, alumnus, employee, emeritus).

University Sponsored Education Abroad and Away Programs

A Minnesota State University, Mankato sponsored education abroad and away programs are developed and administered by the University and awards Minnesota State Mankato credits. All travelers on Minnesota State Mankato sponsored programs, with the exception of the leader(s) and leaders’ immediate family members, must be enrolled at the University and registered for a minimum of one credit.

University-Provided Clothing

The University will provide or identify sanctioned clothing for groups of employees to wear on-the-job using measures that assure continuity and consistency.

Veteran Participation in Courses Pending VA Payment

In accordance with Title 38 US Code 3679(e), Minnesota State University, Mankato adopts the following provisions for any students using U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Post-9/11 Veterans education benefits (Ch. 33) or Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Ch. 31) benefits, while payment to the institution is pending from VA.

Veteran Tuition Assistance Refund Policy

Veteran Tuition Assistance for Army, Navy, Airforce and Marines will be refunded based on a proportional basis through at least the 60 percent portion of the period of enrollment.

Weapons and Firearms

Possession of any weapon, firearm or fireworks within facilities or on land owned, leased or under the control of Minnesota State University, Mankato is prohibited except as allowed by Minnesota Law, Minnstate Board of Trustees Policy or University Policy.

Workplace Environment

While in an employment related capacity, either on University property or while conducting University business at other locations, each employee or student employee is obligated to act civilly, respectfully and professionally towards others and is prohibited from subjecting any other employee or student employee to any form of workplace violence/aggression, harassment and/or bullying.

Zero Credit Hour Courses

The University shall assume students will earn one or more credits for any course listed in the University’s undergraduate academic catalog. The specific amount of credit earned shall be assigned in accordance with the University’s Academic Credit Definition policy. Credits are assigned to courses based on the belief that students should be rewarded for academic work that they complete and influenced by the recognition that faculty and other University resources are utilized to offer its courses. Zero credit courses are appropriate in academic settings where students are participating in coursework that is largely self-directed, or activities that that may be repeatable as part of a co-curricular experience. Similarly, variable zero-to-one credit courses may be appropriate for co-curricular campus experiences. Student enrollment will be determined additionally by the individual courses taken as well as over-all credits.