Hospitalization Policy
This policy was developed to best support the safety and well-being of the student and the university community. The term “hospital” and its various forms here forward include but are not limited to the following settings: emergency room (ER), behavioral health facility, inpatient psychiatric unit. Hospital evaluation, treatment, and transportation from campus or health services by ambulance will be at the student’s expense.
Mental Health-Related Hospitalization
Students who are hospitalized for mental health-related reasons, whether through self-admission, being brought by another individual, or being transported by emergency medical services (EMS) from campus, must receive clearance from the Executive Director of Wellness Services before returning to campus. Until this clearance is confirmed, the student is not permitted to return to campus.
For residential students, emergency contacts will be notified when residential life staff are made aware of the transport.
Returning to Campus
The clearance process requires:
- Official discharge documentation from hospital staff confirming that, in their opinion, the student is stable to return.
- For inpatient settings, a Return to Campus form—sent directly by the counseling center—must be completed by the treatment staff.
- The university may communicate with the hospital regarding the student’s admission and treatment.
In most cases, students must arrange for transportation from the hospital upon discharge, typically facilitated by a parent or guardian, while their documentation is reviewed. If a student has been discharged without the necessary paperwork, the university may require an external mental health provider, not affiliated with the university, to complete the official Return to Campus form. This form will aid in assessing the student’s readiness to reintegrate into campus life and will be sent by the counseling center staff to the treating professional.
Review & Appeal Process
Documentation will be reviewed by professionals within the university counseling center. Students must demonstrate compliance with any recommendations issued by hospital staff, such as scheduled ongoing treatment. Confirmation of such appointments may be required.
Final decisions regarding a student's return will be made by the Executive Director of Wellness Services. Students may appeal a denial by submitting a written statement to the Dean of Students within 5 business days of the decision. The appeal decision of the Dean of Students is final.
Physical Health-Related Hospitalization
Students experiencing a physical injury, illness, or condition requiring hospitalization must notify the Dean of Students. It is the student’s responsibility to facilitate communication between off-campus medical providers and the university. A signed release of information is required to enable this communication.
Returning to Campus
Depending on the nature of the condition, students must be cleared to return by a licensed medical professional. The provider must issue documentation verifying the student’s condition has been treated or is being appropriately managed, and that the student is able to resume academic responsibilities. This documentation must be submitted to the Dean of Students.
If academic accommodations are needed, students must contact the Office of Student Accessibility to initiate the process.
Review & Appeal Process
Documentation submitted by a medical professional will be reviewed by the Dean of Students in consultation with appropriate university health staff, if necessary. The university may request additional information or clarification from the provider.
If clearance to return is denied, students will be notified in writing with an explanation of the decision. Students may appeal by submitting a written request and any supporting documentation to the Dean of Students within 5 business days of the decision. The appeal will be reviewed by a designated committee or administrator not involved in the original determination, and a final decision will be issued in writing. The appeal decision of the committee or administrator is final.