OUWB Religious Observance

Authorizing Body:

Office of the Dean

Date Issued:

March 2, 2014

Last Update:

June 16, 2025

Rationale:

Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine (OUWB) is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that respects and supports the diverse religious practices of our faculty, staff, and students. We recognize the importance of allowing individuals to observe religious holidays that hold significance in their lives, contributing to their overall well-being and academic success.

Scope and Applicability:

This policy applies to all students enrolled at OUWB.

Standard Practice Guideline:

OUWB strives to ensure that students can fulfill their religious obligations without facing academic penalties. This commitment is rooted in our respect for the wide array of religious traditions present within our community while maintaining the nonsectarian principles of OUWB. This policy aims to equitably benefit all religious groups by providing equitable opportunities for religious observations. To promote a supportive process for requesting religious accommodations, students may approach the Course Director, Course Coordinators, Associate Dean for Preclinical Education, Associate Dean of Clinical Education, or Associate Dean for Student Affairs & Career Development. These individuals are available to assist students in navigating their requests for accommodations.

Procedures:

OUWB will be sensitive to the observance of religious holidays, ensuring that absences for these observances do not hinder students’ ability to meet learning objectives when the below-listed procedures are followed.

• Notification of Conflicts: Students who identify a potential conflict between their religious observances and scheduled classes, examinations, or clinical responsibilities are expected to personally notify the appropriate course/clerkship leadership, at least two (2) weeks in advance. This notice allows for the appropriate arrangements to be made.
• Responsibility: Absence due to religious observance does not absolve the student from the obligation to complete assigned coursework or examinations. Additionally, any approved absence is for the day of the religious observance, not for days leading up to or after the observance date. Orientation programs for new students must inform incoming students about this policy and urge them to check for conflicts before the deadline for informing their instructors. Faculty must refer to this religious observance policy in their syllabi.
• Make-Up Opportunities: In the event of an excused absence from examinations or class assignments due to religious observance, students will be afforded the opportunity to make up missed work without penalty.
• Non-Retaliation Assurance: Students utilizing the provisions of this policy will face no adverse or prejudicial consequences. It is essential to maintain a learning environment that encourages openness and respect for each individual's beliefs.
• Dispute Resolution: Should any disagreements arise concerning the interpretation or application of these guidelines, the involved parties should reach out to the Associate Dean for Preclinical Education, Associate Dean of Clinical Education, the Associate Dean for Student Affairs & Career Development, or the Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Community Engagement. These offices will work collaboratively with all parties to facilitate a resolution.
• Notification of Decision: Students requesting an excused absence for religious observance shall be notified of decision in writing by course or clerkship director or coordinator within 5 business days.

Related Policies and Forms: