Student Rights & Responsibilities

• Student Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures
  • Code of Student Conduct
  • Sanctions
  • Financial Aid Grievances
• Educational Records and Privacy
• Computer and Network Usage
• Service Animals Policy
• Drug and Alcohol Policy
• Non-Smoking Policy
• Safety and Security
• Title IX
  • Non-Discrimination, Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity, and Diversity
  • Pregnancy
  • Sexual Harassment Policy
  • Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, or Stalking
• Hazing Policy
• Voter Registration

Urban College of Boston is committed to promoting student learning in a stable and peaceful environment. Students are responsible for conducting themselves in a manner that is appropriate and non-threatening to others. Specifically, students should refrain from disruptive behavior, theft, falsification of records, possession of weapons, destruction of property, hazing, physical and verbal abuse, and acts of harassment towards anyone. Students who violate this code of conduct are subject to expulsion, suspension, or other penalties.

Each student is guaranteed the privilege of exercising his/her rights within the College and Federal policies without fear of reprisal. Such rights include the following: 

• Students are free to pursue their educational goals, both inside and outside the classroom. 
• Academic evaluation of student performance shall be fair and clear; it shall not be arbitrary. 
• Free inquiry, expression, and assembly are guaranteed to all students, provided their actions do not interfere with the rights of others or violate established college policies. 
• Members of the Urban College community have the right to expect safety, protection of property, and the continuity of the educational process. 
• Students have the responsibility to respect and comply with the College’s policies and procedures. 
• Students must comply with local, state, and federal law. 
• Students are responsible to act in a manner that promotes an atmosphere of learning and free expression. 
• The responsibility to respect the human rights of every individual in the College community. 

Urban College of Boston complies with the requirements of:

• Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
• The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
• Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 Voter Registration Act (Mass. General Laws, Chapter 51, Sect. 42E)
• The Jeanne Cleary Disclosures of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act
• Hazing (Mass. General Laws, Chapter 269, Sections 17, 18, 19)
• Policy on Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action
• Massachusetts Clean Indoor Air (Mass. General Laws, Chapter 270, Sect. 22)
• Student Absences Due to Religious Beliefs (Mass. General Laws, Chapter 151C, Sect. 2A)

Student Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures

Code of Student Conduct

Urban College of Boston is committed to promoting student learning in a stable and peaceful environment. Therefore, students are responsible for conducting themselves in a manner that is appropriate and non-threatening to others. Specifically, students should refrain from disruptive behavior, theft, falsification of records, possession of weapons, destruction of property, hazing, physical and verbal abuse, and acts of harassment towards anyone. Students who violate this code of conduct are subject to expulsion, suspension, or other penalties. Conduct subject to disciplinary action includes, but is not limited to, the following: 

Unprofessional Conduct 

• Dishonesty, including, but not limited to, forgery, knowingly furnishing false information to the college, and alteration and/or use of college documents, financial instruments, or identification cards with intent to defraud.
• Dishonesty involving academic integrity, including, but not limited to, cheating or plagiarism, will be addressed under the Academic Honesty Policy in the College Catalog .
• Disrespect of or insubordination to college personnel.
• Use of oral or written profanity.
• Sexual harassment of other students, faculty, or staff.

Misuse of College Property 

• Littering, destroying, or damaging property of the college or property under its jurisdiction. 
• Violation of the college computer facilities and network use policy. 

Alcohol and Drug Violations 

• Use of alcoholic beverages, including the purchase, consumption, possession, or sale of such items, except where specifically authorized in the policies and guidelines of the College. 
• Possession, use, sale, or distribution of any type of drugs for illegal purposes. 
• Appearing at any College premises while intoxicated or while under the influence of an illegal substance. 
• Violation of the college Non-Smoking policy. 
• Criminal Activity and Violent or Dangerous Behavior. 

Criminal Activity and Violent or Dangerous Behavior 

• Violation of any local, state, or federal law. 
• Possession on college property of weapons, such as knives, firearms, or any dangerous chemical or explosive elements or their component parts. 
• Threatening of any member of the Urban College community. 

Sanctions

The following sanctions may be imposed, separately or in conjunction with other sanctions: 

1. A written statement to a student that he/she is violating or has violated College policies and may be subject to more severe disciplinary action. 

2. Required reimbursement for damage to or misappropriation of property. This may take the form of appropriate services or other compensation. 

3. Interim Suspension: If, in the opinion of the Vice President of Student Success or designee, the presence of a student poses a serious threat to others, the Vice President of Student Success or designee may suspend the student immediately. If the student requests an appeal of the decision, a hearing shall be held at the earliest reasonable time. 

4. Termination of student status with the college for an indefinite, or permanent, period of time. 

5. Withdrawal without refund. A student may be administratively withdrawn from the current or future semesters at the College and the course withdrawal refund policies described in the College Catalog will be followed . 

Financial Aid Grievances

Business Office
2 Boylston St. 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02116
617-449-7030

Students with concerns about financial aid issues should first contact the Business Office to discuss any concerns that they have. Many issues can be resolved via a conversation. In the event that the student is not satisfied after contacting the Business Office, then the student should follow the Non-Academic or Financial Aid Grievance Procedures as outlined in the College Catalog .

Educational Records and Privacy

Privacy rights, regarding access to information, are observed in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, commonly known as the Buckley Amendment.

In accordance with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (Section 438 of the General Education Provisions Act 20 USC 1232), below are the regulations that Urban College has adopted to protect the privacy rights of its students. Revisions and clarifications will be published as experience with the law and the institution’s policy warrants.

Students are informed of their rights under this act through the College Catalog and Student Handbook. In compliance with this federal law, the college has established a policy to protect students from misuse of information in their education records and to allow students access to their own education records.

The policy is summarized as follows:

Student’s Rights: FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their educational records. These rights include:

• The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the college receives a request for access. Students should submit to the Registrar written requests that identify the record(s) that they wish to inspect. The Registrar will arrange for access and notify the student of the time and place where the record may be inspected.
• The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate.
  
  A student may ask the College to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. They should write to the college official that is responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record that they want changed, and specify why they believe that it is inaccurate.
  
  If the college decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the college will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
• The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosures without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the college in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the college has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another college official in performing their tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record to fulfill their professional responsibility.
• The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Urban College of Boston to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605

Our FERPA waiver form is available here

Access to Education Records

Access to records is limited to school officials with a legitimate educational interest.

A school official is defined as follows:

• a person employed by the College in an administrative, counseling, supervisory, or academic, student support services position, or a support person to these positions; or
• a person employed by or under contract to the College to perform a special task.

Legitimate educational interest needed for a school official to access a record includes:

• The information requested is necessary for that official to perform appropriate tasks that are specified in their position description or by a contract agreement.
• The information is to be used within the context of official agency or school business and not for purposes extraneous to the official’s areas of responsibility or to the College.
• The information is relevant to the accomplishment of some task or to a determination about the student.
• The information is to be used consistently with the purposes for which the data are maintained.

Those with access to education records are required to maintain confidentiality of the contents of those records.

Directory Information

The following pieces of information are considered Directory Information and may be released with or without notice by the college except in cases where they have been specifically protected by written request from a student:

• Name as it appears in the College’s records
• Degrees or Certificates enrolled or conferred and Date of Graduation
• Dates of Attendance
• Enrollment status
• Urban College Email address
• College Honors, including Dean’s List (see “Dean’s List” ).

Release of Education Records to Educational Partners

When outlined in official Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), the college may release education records to organizations and institutions (Partners) sponsoring courses for their employees, patrons, or those with another recognized affiliation, except in cases where they have been explicitly protected by written request from the student. That may include, but is not limited to:

• Directory Information (see Directory Information above)
• Attendance and enrollment information for courses sponsored by the Partner
• Grades in courses sponsored by the Partner
• Personal Information allowing confirmation of student identity (e.g., the student’s Social Security Number, or Date of Birth)

The Partner may also act on behalf of the student to administratively withdraw the student from courses sponsored by the Partner for non-attendance (see Academic Policies ). The release of information will only apply to student education records specifically outlined in the relevant MOU. Partners will not have access to education records that are not directly related to the specified partnership.

Computer and Network Usage

General Principles

Access to the College’s computer systems and networks, including email, imposes certain responsibilities and obligations and is granted subject to College policies, and local, state, and federal laws. Acceptable use always is ethical, reflects academic honesty, and shows restraint in the consumption of shared resources. It demonstrates respect for intellectual property, ownership of data, system security mechanisms, and individual rights to privacy.

Users include - but are not limited to - all students, faculty, staff, and administrators, who have been granted access to college-owned or college-licensed computers, networks, software, or any peripherals associated with the College’s computing facilities and/or equipment (“computer resources”). This policy applies to all Users.

The College’s computer resources are the property of the College. Such equipment and resources, including email, shall be only used for academic, educational, or professional purposes, which are related to official College business and in support of the College’s mission.

No Expectation of Privacy

Users shall have no expectation of privacy when using College computer resources, including email. The President of the College may also authorize the network administrator to inspect any user’s computer, any data contained in it, and any data, including email communications, sent, or received by that computer, on a case-by-case basis.

Guidelines

In making acceptable use of resources, users MUST:

• use resources only for College business, for purposes authorized by the College;
• be responsible for all activities on your user ID or that originate from your system that result from your negligent failure to protect your user ID or to protect against such unauthorized use; Users should not give a password to anyone;
• access only files and data that are your own, that are publicly available, or to which you have authorized access;
• use only legal versions of copyrighted software in compliance with vendor license requirements; and
• be considerate in your use of shared resources. Examples include not monopolizing systems, overloading networks with excessive data, or wasting computer time or resources, disk space, printer paper, manuals, or other resources.

In making acceptable use of resources, users MUST NOT:

• use another person’s system, user ID, password, files, email address, or data without permission; use computer programs to decode passwords or access control information;
• download, transmit, or display obscene material;
• circumvent or subvert, or attempt to circumvent or subvert system or network security measures;
• engage in any activity that unreasonably interferes with the normal operation of the college;
• engage in any activity that might be harmful to systems or to any information stored thereon, such as creating or propagating viruses, disrupting services, distributing chain letters, or damaging files;
• use College systems for commercial or partisan political purposes, such as using electronic mail to circulate advertising for products, political candidates, or any profit-making company or enterprise;
• make or use illegal copies of copyrighted software, store such copies on College systems, or transmit them over College Resources;
• engage in unauthorized use or distribution of copyrighted material, including unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing; or download any online software without appropriate authorization.
• use the network for purposes that place a heavy load on scarce resources;
• use the College’s computers or networks to libel, slander, or harass any other person. The following shall constitute Computer Harassment:
  • Intentionally using the computer to harass, intimidate, or threaten another person by conveying obscene language, pictures, or other materials or threats of bodily harm to the recipient or the recipient’s immediate family;
  • Intentionally using the computer to contact another person repeatedly, whether or not any actual message is communicated, and/or where no purpose of legitimate communication exists, and where the recipient has expressed a desire for the communication to cease;
  • Intentionally using the computer to contact another person repeatedly regarding a matter for which one does not have a legal right to communicate, once the recipient has provided reasonable notice that he or she desires such communication to cease (such as debt collection);
  • Intentionally using the computer to disrupt or damage the academic research, administrative, or related pursuits of another;
  • Intentionally using the computer to invade privacy, academic or otherwise;
• use the College’s systems or networks for personal gain; for example, by selling access to your user ID or to College systems or networks, or by performing work for profit with College resources in a manner not authorized by the College;
• use the College’s systems or networks to transmit any material in violation of United States or Massachusetts laws or regulations;
• engage in any illegal or unethical act, including violation of any criminal or civil laws or regulations, whether state or federal;
• engage in any conduct that violates the College’s other policies; and
• engage in any other activity that does not comply with the General Principles presented above.

College Email

The College provides Users with electronic mail (email) communication. Email communication is intended primarily for educational and College business-related communications, and shall be used by all students, faculty, staff, administrators, and contractors in a manner consistent with this policy.

Student email accounts will be created for each new student upon registration. Students are required to use and check their College email account regularly.

Important College information will be communicated to students through the student email system. The College will not allow students to update their email addresses with private or other email addresses, but they can forward their Urban College email to another email account. Only the assigned College email address will be used by the College for email communications with students.

College email accounts remain active while a student is enrolled at the college. Accounts are deactivated one year after the last term of enrollment, whether or not a student receives a credential. If a student re-enrolls, the account will be reactivated.

Social Media

The use of all College computer resources for social media activities, including but not limited to, Facebook, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, blogs, or other forms of social media, shall comply with this policy. Use of the College’s computer resources by students for educational and social activities consistent with the College’s mission shall comply with this policy.

Enforcement

College officials will review alleged violations of acceptable use policies on a case-by-case basis. Violations of policy will result in appropriate actions, consideration of appropriate disciplinary measures, and/or referral to appropriate authorities responsible for enforcing local, state, and federal laws. Users who breach this policy may be denied access to the College’s computer and communications networks and may be subject to further disciplinary action.

To prevent further possible unauthorized activity, the College reserves the right to disconnect that user from the network. If this is deemed necessary by College staff, where appropriate, reasonable effort will be made to inform the user prior to the disconnection. Breaches of this Computer and Network Usage Policy will be referred to appropriate administrators for consideration of discipline in accordance with applicable College policies and procedures.

The College considers any violation of acceptable use of principles or guidelines to be a serious offense and reserves the right to copy and examine any files or information resident on the College systems allegedly relating to unacceptable use.

Violators are subject to disciplinary action as prescribed in student and employee policies, handbooks, or contracts.

Service Animals Policy

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) a service animal (sometimes called an assistance animal) is defined as, “any guide dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.” A service animal is specifically trained to perform tasks related to the person’s disability and is not considered a pet. Both therapy animals and emotional support animals may be part of an individual’s therapy or treatment plan, but unless they have been specifically trained to do work or perform tasks related to an individual’s disability, they are not to be considered service animals and cannot be brought on campus. All service animals must be registered with Urban College’s Student Services and Support Department. 

The following policies apply to service animals used on the Urban College campus: 

• All service animals must be licensed in accordance with city and county regulations. 
• All service animals must be current in their immunizations against diseases specific to the type of animal. Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies, distemper, and parvovirus and other animals must have the appropriate vaccinations that are required for that animal. A licensed veterinarian must certify that the animal has been vaccinated and is healthy and free of any communicable diseases. 
• The service animal must be always leashed and under control of its handler/partner. The care and supervision of the service animal is solely the responsibility of its handler/partner. 
• Any service animal that is not in control and that, in the opinion of Urban College staff, poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others may be excluded from the Urban College campus. 
• When physically possible, the handler/partner is responsible for cleaning up after their service animal. 

Drug and Alcohol Policy

Urban College of Boston strives to achieve a healthy living, learning, and working environment. As part of this commitment and pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug Free Schools and Community Act Amendments of 1989. The College also complies with all local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to alcohol and illicit drugs. The unlawful manufacture, dispensing, possession, use or distribution of alcohol or illicit drugs by students or employees on Urban College’s property is prohibited.

All members of the Urban College community are responsible for knowing and acting in accordance with the applicable laws and college policy concerning the purchase, possession, consumption, and sale of alcoholic beverages.

Urban College will continue to distribute materials to students and provide educational workshops/training as a means of prevention. Student Affairs personnel can provide referrals to other agencies and organizations for individuals experiencing or affected by persons with substance abuse issues.

Policy and Rules

Urban College strives to achieve a healthy living, learning, and working environment. As part of this commitment and pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug Free Schools and Community Act Amendments of 1989, Urban College of Boston uses multiple strategies to provide comprehensive education regarding alcohol and other drugs.

Legal Sanctions for Unlawful Possession of Alcohol and Drugs

Violation of the alcohol and drugs policy will result in actions ranging from mandated participation in drug counselling and rehabilitation programs to dismissal.

Drug-Related Crimes and Federal Financial Aid

In addition to these provisions, the Higher Education Amendments of 1998 included a new student eligibility provision. It provides that, effective July 1, 2000, a student is ineligible for federal student aid if convicted, under federal or state law, of any offense involving the possession or sale of a Controlled Substance (generally meaning illegal drugs, but not including alcohol or tobacco). The period of ineligibility begins on the date of the conviction and lasts until the end of the statutorily specified period. The student may regain eligibility early by completing a drug rehabilitation program that meets certain statutory and regulatory requirements (including two unannounced drug tests), or if the conviction is overturned.

Health Risk of Alcohol and Drug Use

The negative physical and mental effects of the use of alcohol and other drugs are well-documented. The use of these drugs may cause blackouts, poisoning, and overdose, physical and psychological dependence, damage to vital organs, as well as an inability to learn and remember information, and psychological problems. For more information about the health risks associated with the misuse of alcohol and illicit drugs, please visit www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/commonly-abused-drugs-charts. 

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program

As required under the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989, Urban College of Boston uses multiple strategies to provide comprehensive education regarding alcohol and other drugs. Urban College will continue to distribute materials to students and provide educational workshops/training as a means of prevention. Student Affairs personnel can provide referrals to other agencies and organizations for individuals experiencing or affected by persons with substance abuse issues.

Free Alcohol, Drug, and Other Rehab Sources

Non-Smoking Policy

Urban College of Boston commits to being a smoke-free and tobacco-free campus to support the health and well-being of the College’s students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Per the Tenant Handbook provided by Colliers International New England, LLC (which manages the China Trade Center - 2 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116 - that houses Urban College), “China Trade Center is a smoke-free building. Smoking is not permitted in any area of the building. As a smoke-free environment, smoking is not permitted within 50 feet of any entranceway into the building.” In addition to maintaining a smoke-free environment, Urban College also bans the use of any tobacco products on all property owned, controlled, or leased by the college, as well as any tobacco-related advertising or sponsorship. The policy applies to products including - but not limited to - cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, vape pens, hookah, and smokeless tobacco.

Safety and Security

Student safety is of the utmost importance at Urban College, and we all must work together to maintain a safe and secure campus community. Students should maintain awareness of campus safety and immediately report issues and circumstances that may reduce safety and security for our students.

Preparing the Annual Disclosure of Crime Statistics

Urban College prepares an annual report to comply with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act. The report is prepared in cooperation with the local law enforcement agencies surrounding our main campus and alternative learning sites.

The full report shall be accessible online on the college website. An annual email notification is sent to all enrolled students, faculty, and staff that provide the website to access this report. Copies may also be requested from the Office of Enrollment Services. All prospective employees may obtain a copy from Human Resources, and the website address will be attached to Urban College employment applications.

Notification of a Missing Student

If a member of the college community has reason to believe that a student is missing, they should immediately notify the Boston Police Department by calling 911 and notify the President by calling (617) 449-7037. The Boston Police Department will investigate, generate a missing person report, enter relevant student data into an appropriate database, and involve other law enforcement agencies as necessary.

Should the Boston Police Department confirm that the student is missing, the college will notify the student’s emergency contact no later than 24 hours after the student is determined to be missing by the Boston Police Department. If the missing student is under the age of 18 and is not an emancipated individual, the college must notify the student’s parent or legal guardian in addition to any other designated contact person within 24 hours of the determination that the student is missing.

In addition to providing an emergency contact, students have the option to confidentially identify an individual to be contacted by the college in the event the student is determined to be missing. A student’s missing person contact information will be confidential and will be accessible only by authorized campus officials and law enforcement in the event of a missing person investigation. It may not be disclosed outside of a missing person investigation.

Reporting A Crime And Other Emergencies

Members of the community, including visitors, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to report all crimes and emergencies in a timely manner. The reporting of a crime may occur even if the victim is not able or elects to do so. A crime is considered “reported” when it is brought to the attention of a Campus Security Authority (CSA) or law enforcement by a victim, a witness, another third party, or by the offender. The report must be made to the local public law enforcement entity, on-campus and off-campus, and Campus Security Authorities (CSA). Suspicious activities or individuals seen within the campus vicinity should also be reported to the relevant authorities. Crimes should be reported for the purpose of making timely warning reports to the community and for inclusion in the annual statistical disclosure.

Accurate Prompt Reporting

Community members, students, faculty, staff, and guests are encouraged to report all crimes and public safety-related incidents to Urban College staff in a timely manner. To report a crime or an emergency on the Urban College of Boston campus, call 911. To report a non-emergency security or public safety-related matter, call 617-449-7070. When a potentially dangerous threat to the Urban College community arises, timely reports or warnings will be issued through e-mail announcements, the posting of notices at buildings containing Urban College classrooms, in -class announcements, or other appropriate means.

To Report A Crime

Anyone can report a crime or emergency by contacting the local police by dialing 911 or the President at (617) 449-7037. To report any suspicious activity or person seen loitering inside buildings with Urban College classrooms, or to report non-emergencies, contact an Urban College CSA:

To Report Complaints of Sexual Violence

A victim of sexual violence has the right to file (or not file) an Affirmative Action Discrimination Complaint Form with the College. Contact the College’s Title IX Coordinator, the Director of Student Services and Support, Rosana Perella, Email: Rosana.Perella@urbancollege.edu For Title IX purposes, the Title IX Coordinator will keep information confidential to the full extent permitted by law.

Response To A Reported Crime

The Boston Police Department will work with individuals reporting a crime to obtain information and conduct a thorough investigation. When appropriate, crime suspects may be adjudicated through the criminal justice system and/or college.

Campus Law Enforcement

The Boston Police Department and/or respective law enforcement for alternative learning sites have full law enforcement authority, including the authority to effect arrests, on campus at Urban College of Boston and at alternative learning sites. Their jurisdiction includes all property owned or controlled by the college, as all streets within the city of Boston and all alternative learning sites. The main campus has a municipal building officer on site who is a sworn officer of the Boston Police Department. The Boston Municipal Protective Services are special licensed police officers with full arrest and investigation authority. Although there is no formal memorandum of understanding, Urban College maintains a healthy working relationship with the Boston Police Department, as well as other local and state law enforcement and emergency response agencies. Urban College personnel attend regular meetings with local law enforcement to exchange ideas and problems which may be of concern for the Urban College community.

Title IX

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (“Title IX”), 20 U.S.C. §1681 et seq., is a Federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex-including pregnancy and parental status-in any educational programs and activities. It ensures equal opportunity in academics, addressing issues such as sexual harassment, pregnancy discrimination, and gender equity for students and employees. Urban College of Boston must comply with this law because we are a college that receives federal funding.

Results from our 2025 Climate Survey can be found here.

Non-Discrimination, Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity, and Diversity

Urban College of Boston is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, age, religion, sexual orientation, political affiliation, national origin, marital status, veteran status, or disability in any of its policies, practices, or procedures, as required by Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975; the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; and other applicable federal and state civil rights laws. This includes, but is not limited to, admission, employment, financial aid, and educational services. The college prohibits sexual harassment, including sexual violence. Inquiries and complaints should be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, Affirmative Action Officer, and the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination. 

Pregnancy

Under Title IX, Urban College pregnant students are entitled to the following if needed:

• Participate in all classes and extracurricular activities.
• Have absences excused due to pregnancy or childbirth for as long as your doctor says it is necessary.
• Be allowed to return to the same academic and extracurricular status as before their medical leave began, which should include giving the opportunity to make up any work missed while they were out.
• Provide pregnant students with the same special services it provides to students with temporary medical conditions. This includes homebound instruction/at-home tutoring/independent study.

Sexual Harassment Policy

Urban College prohibits sexual harassment of students, faculty, or staff. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; or other physical conduct, verbal, non-verbal, or written communication of a sexual nature when the conduct of such is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it denies or limits a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the education program or that it creates a hostile or abusive educational environment.

Sexual harassment violates Urban College policy as well as state and federal law. Any incidents of sexual harassment should be reported to the Director of Student Services and Support so that prompt and effective actions can be taken. Urban College’s Title IX Coordinator is Rosana Perella. Students may contact the office by email at titleix@urbancollege.edu or by phone at 617-449-7380.

It is unlawful to retaliate or discriminate in any way against any person who has expressed concern or made any complaint regarding sexual harassment, and Urban College of Boston will not retaliate or discriminate against any person who expresses concern or files a complaint alleging sexual harassment or discrimination.

Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, or Stalking

The College is obligated to investigate all allegations of sexual violence, even if the alleged victim chooses not to file a formal complaint and/or participate in the investigation. Additionally, a complaint filed in another forum, including a criminal or civil complaint, shall not delay the college’s investigation of a complaint of sexual violence. The college shall promptly and thoroughly investigate all such allegations in accordance with the Policy on Affirmative Action’s Complaint Procedure and shall provide the victim with periodic updates on the status of the investigation.

Procedures to Follow for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, or Stalking

Ensure Safety

Call the Boston Police Department by dialing 911. It is imperative to ensure your safety and avoid remaining in a dangerous situation.

Seek Medical Care

Seek immediate medical treatment. It is important to receive medical attention, even if you feel you were not physically hurt. The survivor has the right to accept or reject any part of the medical exam. If you were the victim of a sexual assault, sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) are specially trained to care for survivors of sexual violence and to perform sexual assault evidence collection kits. The SANE program serves seven hospitals in the greater Boston area:

• Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
• Brigham and Women’s Hospital
• Boston Medical Center
• Cambridge Hospital
• Children’s Hospital
• Massachusetts General Hospital
• Newton-Wellesley Hospital

Preserve Evidence

It is important to preserve evidence in cases of sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking, if possible. Victims should take certain actions promptly to preserve evidence for criminal prosecution and/or to obtain a protective order.

Victim Identification

Personal identifiable information about a victim will be treated as confidential and only shared with persons with a specific need to know and/or who are investigating and/or adjudicating the complaint, delivering resources or support services to the victim or as public safety requires. The College does not publish the names or other identifiable information of victims. In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, a victim may request that no directory information maintained by the college be released without their prior written consent.

Report the Incident

In addition to contacting local law enforcement, you may also file a complaint with the college. A college complaint (Sexual Misconduct Complaint) may be submitted by contacting the Title IX Coordinator at 617-449-7380 or titleix@urbancollege.edu. Ultimately, it is the student’s choice whether or not to make a report and to decline to notify any of the above-listed entities.

Written Notification

Urban College will provide written notification to students and employees who report sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking about existing counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, visa and immigration assistance, student financial aid, and other services available on and off campus. Urban College will further provide written notification to survivors about options for requesting changes to academic or working situations, as well as how to request protective measures.

Disciplinary Actions

After a final determination has been made regarding sexual misconduct, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking policies, Urban College is authorized to impose a sanction. In determining the appropriate sanction, Urban College shall consider the severity of the violation, the safety of the complainant and the community, and the education or changes needed from the respondent.

Possible sanctions for students include: a disciplinary warning, disciplinary probation, disciplinary suspension, disciplinary expulsion, required participation in educational seminars or programs, domestic violence education or treatment programs, restitution, directed study of a related topic, and no contact orders, as well as criminal prosecution.

Possible sanctions for employees include: a disciplinary warning, disciplinary probation, suspension from employment, termination of employment, required participation in educational seminars or programs, domestic violence education or treatment programs, restitution, directed study of a related topic, and no contact orders, as well as criminal prosecution.

Protections for Victims of Sexual Violence

A person subjected to sexual violence shall:

• Be provided with a copy of the college’s Sexual Violence - Victim’s Rights and Information Advisory, which shall include information concerning counseling, health, and mental health services, victim advocacy and support, law enforcement assistance, and other services available on and off campus;
• Have the right to pursue, or not pursue, assistance from campus administration officials or campus law enforcement;
• Not be discouraged by college officials from reporting an incident to both on-campus and off-campus authorities;
• Be provided assistance in contacting local law enforcement if requested and have the full and prompt assistance and cooperation of campus personnel should a civil and/or criminal complaint be pursued.
• Be free from any suggestion that they somehow contributed to or had a shared responsibility in the violent act.
• Receive the same level of support at any proceeding before college officials as is permitted to the accused party, including the presence of a personal advisor during any disciplinary proceeding and the right to be notified in a timely manner of the outcome of such proceedings and any appeal right available.
• Receive full and prompt cooperation from college personnel in obtaining and securing evidence (including medical evidence) necessary for any potential criminal proceedings.
• Have access to existing college advising, support services, and obtain referrals to off-campus counseling and support services if desired.
• Be permitted to attend classes, work, and participate in college activities free from unwanted contact or proximity to the respondent insofar as the College is permitted and able.
• Be permitted to request changes to an academic schedule if such changes are requested by the alleged victim and are reasonably available; and
• Be informed of any no-contact or no-trespass orders issued to the respondent by the college and the college’s commitment to honor any court-issued restraining or protective orders, to the extent permitted by law.

Interim Protective Measures

Title IX requires the college to take reasonable steps to ensure equal access to its education programs and activities and protect individuals from Prohibited Conduct, including taking interim protective measures before the final outcome of an investigation. The college shall take these steps promptly once it has notice of an allegation of Prohibited Conduct, including sexual violence.

Examples of interim protective measures include, but are not limited to, the following:

• access to counseling services and assistance in scheduling an appointment, on or off campus.
• imposition of an interim suspension or on-campus “no-contact” order.
• rescheduling of exams and assignments.
• providing alternative course completion options.
• changing class schedules, including withdrawing from a course without penalty.
• changing work schedules or job assignments.
• limiting access to certain college facilities or activities pending resolution of the matter.
• voluntary leave of absence.
• providing an escort to ensure safe movement between classes and activities; and/or
• providing academic support services, such as tutoring.

Amnesty

Students may be hesitant to report sexual violence out of concern that they, or witnesses, might be charged with violations of the college’s drug/alcohol policies. While the college does not condone such behavior, it places a priority on addressing allegations of sexual violence. Accordingly, the college may elect not to pursue discipline against a student who, in good faith, reports, witnesses or possesses personal knowledge of an incident of sexual violence.

Retaliation

Urban College of Boston prohibits retaliation against any person who presents a formal or informal complaint of sexual violence or who testifies or offers evidence connected with a complaint. Retaliation is a violation of this policy whether or not the underlying claim of sexual violence is confirmed.

Programs & Prevention

Resources for Survivors of Sexual Assault, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, and Stalking

Current contact information on rape crisis centers in Massachusetts can be found at the Commonwealth’s Executive Office of Health and Human Services’ Website under Consumer Information at https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-health-and-human-services.

Greater Boston Area

Boston Area Rape Crisis Center, Cambridge, 617-492-7273 Hotline, 617-492-6434 TTY
Reach Beyond Domestic Violence, Waltham, 800-899-400 Hotline

Northeastern Massachusetts

North Shore Rape Crisis Center, Beverly, 800-922-8772 Hotline, 978-921-8729 TTY 
Rape Crisis Services of Greater Lowell, 800-542-5212 Hotline, 978-452-8723 TTY 
YWCA of Greater Lawrence, 877-509-9922 SA Hotline, 978-686-8840 TTY

Central Massachusetts

Rape Crisis Center of Central Mass., Worcester, 800-870-5905 Hotline, 508-852-7600 TTY 
Rape Crisis Center of Central Mass., Fitchburg, 800-870-5905
Wayside Victim Services, Milford, 800-511-5070 Hotline, 508-478-4205 TTY 
Voices Against Violence, Framingham, 800-593-1125 Hotline, 508-626-8686 TTY

Southeastern Massachusetts

A Safe Place, Nantucket, 508-228-2111 Hotline, 508-228-0561 TTY 
Independence House, Hyannis, 800-439-6507 Hotline, 508-778-6782 TTY 
Women Support Services, Vineyard Haven, 508-696-7233 
Greater New Bedford Women Center, New Bedford, 888-839-6636 Hotline, 508-996-1177 TTY 
New Hope, Attleboro, 800-323-4673 Hotline/TTY
Stanley Street Women Center, Fall River, 508-675-0087 Hotline, 508-673-3328 TTY 
Woman’s Place Crisis Center, Brockton, 508-588-8255 SA Hotline, 508-894-2869 TTY

Western Massachusetts

Elizabeth Freeman Center, Pittsfield, 413-443-0089 Hotline, 413-499-2425 TTY 
Everywoman Center, Amherst, 413-545-0800 Hotline, 888-337-0800 TTY 
NELCWIT, Greenfield, 413-772-0806 Hotline/TTY
YWCA, Springfield, 800-796-8711
YWCA of Western Mass, Westfield, 800-479-6245 Hotline/TTY

Transition House

www.transitionhouse.org
Call 617-661-7203 for emergency shelter and transitional and supported housing

Casa Myrna Vazquez, Support for survivors 617-521-0116

www.casamyrna.org

Hazing Policy 

All Urban College of Boston students are subject to the following act of the Massachusetts Legislature (General Court) which makes hazing a crime. Action will be initiated for alleged violation(s) of this act under applicable sections of the Code of Student Conduct. Students may also be subject to lawsuits by victims of hazing. 

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows: Chapter 269 of the General Laws is hereby amended by striking out sections 17 to 19, inclusive, and inserting in place thereof the following three sections: 

Section 17: Penalty whoever is a principal organizer of participant in the crime of hazing, as defined herein, shall be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment. 

Definition: The term “hazing” as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug, or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any such student or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent shall not be available as a defense to any prosecution under this action. 

Section 18: Duty to Report Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or peril to him/herself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars. 

Section 19: Notice Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of postsecondary education shall issue to every student group, student team or student organization which is part of such institution or is recognized by the institution or permitted by the institution to use its name or facilities or is known by the institution to exist as an unaffiliated student group, student team or student organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen; provided, however, that an institution’s compliance with this section’s requirements that an institution issue copies of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to un-affiliated student groups, teams, or organizations shall not constitute evidence of the institution’s recognition or endorsement of said unaffiliated student groups, teams, or organizations. 

Each such group, team or organization shall distribute a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to each of its members, plebes, pledges, or applicants for membership. It shall be the duty of each such group, team, or organization, acting through its designated officer, to deliver annually, to the institution an at-tested acknowledgment stating that such group, team, or organization has received a copy of this section and said sections seventeen and eighteen, and that each of its members, plebes, pledges, or applicants has received a copy of sections seventeen and eighteen, and that such group, team, or organization understands and agrees to comply with the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen. Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post-secondary education shall, at least annually, before or at the start of enrollment, deliver to each person who enrolls as a full-time student in such institution a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen. 

Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of postsecondary education shall file, at least annually, a report with the regents of higher education and in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education, certifying that such institution has complied with its responsibility to inform student groups, teams or organizations and to notify each full time student enrolled by it of the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen and also certifying that said institution has adopted a disciplinary policy with regard to the organizers and participants of hazing, and that such policy has been set forth with appropriate emphasis in the student handbook or similar means of communicating the institution’s policies to its students. 

The board of regents and, in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education shall promulgate regulations governing the content and frequency of such reports and shall forthwith report to the attorney general any such institution which fails to make such report. 

Voter Registration

The Higher Education Amendment requires Massachusetts colleges and universities to provide students with information on how to register to vote. 

You may submit an application to register or pre-register to vote in Massachusetts if:

• You are a citizen of the United States; and
• You are 16 years old; and
• You are not currently incarcerated by reason of a felony conviction.

If you meet the above requirements, you may apply online, by mail, or in person.

The deadline to register to vote in any election or regular town meeting is twenty (20) days prior to the date of the election or meeting. The deadline to register to vote in a special town meeting is ten (10) days prior to the special town meeting.

If you are a new citizen who was naturalized after the last day to register to vote, you may register to vote in person at your local election office until 4 p.m. on the day before the election. You should bring documentation to show that your naturalization ceremony occurred after the voter registration deadline.

Additional information can be found here at this link: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/elections-and-voting.htm