BSW Student Handbook 2026 - 2027

Last Revised by: IU School of Social Work Summer 2026

Foreword

The content in this handbook serves as a reference for students to understand the undergraduate social work degree program, its curriculum, policies, and procedures. Students should consult this handbook throughout their academic journey. It provides an overview of the School of Social Work, including its history and mission, the subscribed Code of Ethics, specifics about the BSW program, and available services and opportunities for BSW students. Additionally, this handbook complements existing University materials for students across campuses (Bloomington, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Northwest, and South Bend).

While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date information, the Indiana University School of Social Work reserves the right to modify curricula, policies, courses, rules, or other matters. Changes are made only when necessary to enhance and improve the educational experience.

Please contact BSW Directors with questions:

Bloomington

Michael Ross, MSW, LCSW, PhD (ABD) Candidate
Bachelor of Social Work Program Director
Clinical Assistant Professor
micharos@iu.edu

Fort Wayne

Aisha-Amina Smiley, DSW, LSW
Campus Director, BSW & MSW Programs, IU Fort Wayne / Clinical Associate Professor
(260) 257-6782
aismiley@iu.edu

Indianapolis

Katherine McCarthy, Ph.D., MSW, LCSW
Senior BSW Program Director & IU Indianapolis BSW Program Director / Associate Professor
Contact
(317) 274-8393
mccartka@iu.edu

Northwest

Marshelia Harris
BSW Program Director, IU Northwest / Assistant Professor
(219) 981-5630
mdharris@iu.edu

South Bend

Elena Mrozinske, Ph.D., MSW, LCSW, LCAC
BSW Program Director, South Bend / Clinical Assistant Professor
Contact
(574) 520-4635
emrozins@iu.edu

Chapter 1 Introduction Social Work at Indiana University

The Indiana University School of Social Work offers baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs across various Indiana University campuses. As a system-wide school, its curricula and policies remain consistent across campuses. The Bachelor of Social Work program prepares students for generalist social work practice, while the Master of Social Work program focuses on advanced practice in specialized areas. The Doctoral program equips students for leadership roles in social work education, social welfare policy analysis and development, administration, social work practice, and advocacy.

Brief History

The Indiana University School of Social Work, founded in 1911 as the Department of Social Services, has a rich history in educating providers to support Hoosiers. In 1977, it adopted the name School of Social Work to better align with its professional identity. Along with our accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Program, we have a Master of Social Work (MSW) program and a Ph.D. in Social Work program.

*Info partially taken from Rogers, H.C. (1980). Seventy years of social work education at Indiana University. Indianapolis, IN: IUPUI Press

Indiana University Mission Statement

Indiana University is a prominent multi-campus public research institution. The mission of Indiana University is “to provide broad access to undergraduate and graduate education for students throughout Indiana, the United States, and the world, as well as outstanding academic and cultural programs and student services.” IU is guided by IU2030- The Indiana University Strategic Plan.

Indiana University School of Social Work Mission Statement and Vision

The Indiana University School of Social Work (IUSSW) contributes to creating a fair, just, and equitable society by educating competent and ethical professionals to address complex social, environmental, and economic challenges on local, state, national, and global levels. Please read the Mission Statement and Vision in full.

Council on Social Work Education

Both the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and the Master of Social Work (MSW) programs at Indiana University are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This accreditation ensures that students receive a high-quality professional educational experience. Graduates from these programs are eligible to take state licensing exams in Indiana and neighboring states. BSW graduates can also apply for advanced standing in graduate social work programs.

CSWE actively promotes quality social work education through program accreditation, conferences, professional development activities, and publications. For more information, visit the CSWE website.

IUSSW Statement on Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

We recognize the diversity and intersectionality of age, sex, gender, race, ethnicity, ability, neurodivergence, religion, sexual orientation, marginality, relationship status, family configuration, color, military service, class, political views, national origin, and migration.

IUSSW Policy on Non-Discrimination

An extremely important policy infused in all aspects of the School is the Policy on Non-Discrimination. This policy states:

Based on tradition of the social work profession, and consistent with Indiana University’s Equal Opportunity Policy, the Indiana University School of Social Work affirms and conducts all aspects of its teaching, scholarship, and service activities without discrimination on the basis of race color gender, socio-economic status, marital status, national or ethnic origin, age, religion/creed, disability, political affiliation, sexual orientation or gender identity.

The School of Social Work has a strong commitment to diversity and nondiscrimination. Indeed, diversity is a celebrated strength. This perspective is demonstrated by the composition of its faculty and student body, curriculum content, recruitment and retention activities, participation in University committees dealing with oppressed populations, numerous service activities, including advocacy on behalf of the disadvantaged, selection of field practicum sites, and School policies related to promotion and tenure of its faculty.

Sexual Misconduct Policy

Indiana University (IU) takes a strong stance against sexual misconduct, including harassment and violence. If you’ve experienced such misconduct or know someone who has, IU can help. Federal regulations and University policy require faculty to promptly report potential misconduct to their campus Deputy Title IX Coordinator(s). Privacy is protected, and resources are made available. For confidential help, consider contacting a Mental Health Counselor on campus. The full policy regarding discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct can be found here in the University Policies about Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct.

Chapter 2 Social Work as a Profession

Social Work: A Profession of Leaders

One definition of social work, as adopted by the National Association of Social Work Board of Directors, states, “Social work is the professional activity of helping individuals, groups, or communities to enhance or restore their capacity for social functioning and to create societal conditions favorable to their goals” (Colby & Dziegielewski, 2001, p. 91). This definition emphasizes the profession’s commitment to both individual and environmental intervention.

Areas of Practice

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) graduates are well-prepared to work in diverse settings, effectively engaging with individuals, families, small groups, communities, and organizations. They contribute to both public and private agencies, offering direct and indirect services. BSW professionals often participate in organizational planning and management. Some common employment settings for BSW graduates include:

Settings:

advocacy programs
aging services
businesses and industry
child and adult day care centers
children and youth services
churches
community action agencies
community crisis centers
correctional facilities
criminal justice agencies
disability service agencies
employee assistance programs
head start programs
home care agencies
homeless shelters
hospices
hospitals/clinics
income maintenance programs
interpersonal violence programs
legal services agencies
mental health services
public health agencies
residential treatment programs
schools
substance abuse programs
training/vocational centers
vocational rehabilitation agencies
voluntary association

Code of Ethics in Social Work

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Program at Indiana University follows the National Association of Social Work (NASW) Code of Ethics as its standard. Students admitted to the BSW Program are expected to adhere to the ethical standards outlined. You can find the NASW Code of Ethics in both English and Spanish on the NASW website.

Social work practitioners often develop and adopt additional ethical codes alongside the NASW Code of Ethics. Below are links to other Codes of Ethics for your information and exploration. Remember that students in the BSW Program will be held accountable to the standards outlined in the NASW Code of Ethics.

National Association of Black Social Workers’ (NABSW) Code of Ethics can be found at NABSW Code of Ethics.

International Federation of Social Workers’ (IFSW) Code of Ethics can be found at IFSW Code of Ethics.

Indiana Licensure

Indiana University BSW graduates are eligible to apply for legal licensure in the State of Indiana. Upon completing a full application and achieving a passing score on a standardized examination, the Indiana State Professional Licensing Agency designates them as Licensed Social Workers (LBSWs). For more information, you can visit the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency’s website.

Chapter 3 Indiana University Bachelor of Social Work Program

The Bachelor of Social Work program at the Indiana University School of Social Work educates students to support individuals and communities to address challenges across systems through engagement in critical thinking and reflection using evidence-based practice in alignment with the NASW Code of Ethics. Students partner with public, private, and nonprofit sectors, while giving attention to education, scholarship, and civic engagement. Our students gain the knowledge and skills to make a significant impact in diverse settings locally and globally.

BSW Program Vision and Mission

The BSW Program’s vision is to be a leader in preparing social workers for strengths-based generalist social work practice with vulnerable populations. The BSW Program is committed to high standards for educational delivery and achievement; the core values of the profession (service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence); diversity among students, faculty, and staff; and development, dissemination, and assessment of effective practices.

Mission

Reaffirmed in 2021, the Bachelor of Social Work Program at the Indiana University School of Social Work educates students to support individuals and communities to address challenges across systems and promote human well-being through engagement in critical thinking and reflection using evidence-based practice. Students partner with public, private, and nonprofit sectors, while giving attention to education, research, and civic engagement. Students challenge conditions that marginalize, under-serve, or under-resource individuals and communities to promote social justice. Our students gain the knowledge and skills to make a significant impact in diverse settings locally and globally through ethical, socially, and culturally responsive practice.

Definition of Generalist Practice

The BSW program’s mission statement speaks to the commitment to preparing generalist social work practitioners. The BSW Program defines generalist practice as follows:

Generalist social work practice focuses on improving the well-being of individuals, families, groups, organizations, communities and society by creating social change both within and among these social systems in a global context.

Grounded in the liberal arts, generalist social work practice utilizes research informed knowledge, professional social work values and ethics, and a core set of competencies transferable across a variety of social service practice settings. Generalist practitioners are educated to think critically as they engage, assess, intervene, evaluate practice outcomes, and engage in practice informed research. Generalist social workers respond to a variety of context and strive to protect human rights, promote social and economic justice and provide culturally competent services.

Educational Goals

In keeping with its mission, the BSW Program has set forth five educational goals:

Prepare graduates for generalist social work practice within a global context.
Equip graduates with a broad liberal arts foundation emphasizing critical thinking development.
Empower graduates to serve vulnerable populations and advocate for social and economic justice.
Provide graduates with a foundation for lifelong learning, including graduate education.
Encourage graduates to integrate research-informed practice and technological advancements.

Educational Outcomes

The BSW Program aligns with the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) competencies outlined in the Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS) document (CSWE, 2022). At graduation, students are expected to demonstrate the following abilities:

Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
Advance Human Rights and Social, Racial, Economic, and Environmental Justice
Engage Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) in Practice
Engage in Practice-informed Research and Research-informed Practice
Engage in Policy Practice
Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Evaluate Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities

Overall Degree Requirements

BSW Program Locations: The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is available at five Indiana University (IU) campuses: Bloomington, Fort Wayne, Gary, Indianapolis, and South Bend.
Admission Process: Students apply to the School of Social Work for admission. Application deadlines vary by campus.
Academic Requirements: BSW students must maintain at least a “C” grade in core social work courses.
Course order: Students must successfully complete courses in order, mindful of pre-requisites. For instance, 100, 200, and 300 level courses must be satisfactorily completed before 400 level classes can be taken. See bulletin for information on pre-requisites.

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree program requires a minimum of 120 credit hours. These credits are earned through a combination of required and elective courses. Specifically:

General/Supportive Liberal Arts Courses: Students complete 42-45 credit hours in general/supportive liberal arts subjects. This includes General Education courses and Program Support courses which may vary by campus.
Required Social Work Courses: A total of 52 credit hours are dedicated to social work courses. Students beginning the program in Fall 2026 will have 55 credit hours in social work courses.
Elective Courses: The remaining credits are obtained through elective courses, giving students the flexibility to choose additional subjects, pursue a certificate, or select a minor.

To ensure compliance with both campus and BSW general education requirements, collaborate with your BSW Academic Advisor.

Credit for Life Experience

Academic credit for life experience and previous work experience are not applied, either in whole or in part, toward the social work degree.

See the campus bulletin for overview of

General Education Requirements
Program Support Courses
Social Work Required Courses
Possible Social Work Electives

IU Indianapolis Social Work bulletin General Education Requirement

Degree requirements are divided into four areas. General education, support courses, required courses and electives. General education course requirements vary by campus. Students are expected to meet the general education requirements specific to their campus.

The BSW Program has basic educational requirements consistent across campuses. The BSW course requirements are listed below. Work with your BSW Academic Advisor to ensure you meet both the campus and BSW general education requirements.

Program Support Courses

Professional Writing Skills (SWK S204) OR an intensive writing course approved by the IUSSW program on the student’s campus (e.g., ENG W231)
Public Speaking
Modern American History
Human Biological Science
American Government
Introductory Psychology
Introduction to Sociology
A 3 credit 300 or 400-level Social Work elective or social science course

Social Work Required Courses for students prior to Fall 2026 (15 courses)

To ensure timely completion of the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program, it is essential you consult with your academic advisor for personalized educational planning. They can guide you through the requirements and help you stay on track.

S102 Examining Sociocultural Systems in a Pluralistic Society (3 credits)
S141 Introduction to Social Work (3 cr.)
S221 Human Growth and Development in the Social Environment (3 cr.)
S251 History and Analysis of Social Welfare Policy (3 cr.)
S322 Small Group Theory and Practice (3 cr.)
S331 Engaging and Assessing Client Systems: Generalist Practice with Individuals and Families (3 cr.)
S332 Intervention and Evaluation: Generalist Practice with Individuals and Families (3 cr.)
S352 Social Welfare Policy and Practice (3 cr.)
S371 Social Work Research (3 cr.)
S423 Organizational Theory and Practice (3 cr.)
S433 Community Behavior and Practice with a Generalist Perspective (3 cr.)
S442 Integrated Practice/Policy Seminar (3 cr.)
S472 Social Work Practice Evaluation (3 cr.)
S481 Social Work Practicum I (6 cr.)
S482 Social Work Practicum II (7 cr.)

Social Work Required Courses for students beginning Fall 2026 (17 courses)

S102 Examining Sociocultural Systems in a Pluralistic Society (3 credits)
S141 Introduction to Social Work (3 cr.)
S221 Human Growth and Development in the Social Environment (3 cr.)
S251 History and Analysis of Social Welfare Policy (3 cr.)
S322 Small Group Theory and Practice (3 cr.)
S325 Ethical and Effective Social Work Practice (3 cr.)
S331 Engaging and Assessing Client Systems: Generalist Practice with Individuals and Families (3 cr.)
S332 Intervention and Evaluation: Generalist Practice with Individuals and Families (3 cr.)
S352 Social Welfare Policy and Practice (3 cr.)
S371 Social Work Research (3 cr.)
S415 Social Work in a Pluralistic Society (3 cr.)
S435 Social Work Macro Practice (3 cr.)
S440 Leadership Practice for Social Work Organizations (3 cr.)
S442 Integrated Practice/Policy Seminar (3 cr.)
S472 Social Work Practice Evaluation (3 cr.)
S483 Practicum in Social Work I (5 cr.)
S484 Practicum in Social Work II (5 cr.)

Required Social Work Course Descriptions and Social Work Course Sequencing

Both full-time and part-time options are available for completing the 300 and 400-level required social work courses. Keep in mind that the course sequence may vary depending on the campus you’re attending. To get specific details about the course sequence at your campus, refer to the BSW campus-specific Degree Pathway.

(link to each campus bulletin page that demonstrates pre requisites

IU Indianapolis pre-requisites and course description

In the following course listings:

P: Prerequisite
C: Co-requisite
Credit hours are indicated in parentheses after the course title.

Online Format: Not all BSW courses are offered online; availability varies by campus.

S102 Understanding Sociocultural Systems in a Pluralistic Society (3 cr.)
P or C: Elementary Composition
S141 Introduction to Social Work (3 cr.)
P or C: Elementary Composition
S221 Human Growth and Development in the Social Environment (3 cr.)
S251 History and Analysis of Social Welfare Policy (3 cr.)
S322 Small Group Theory and Practice (3 cr.)
P: S221 Human Growth and Development in the Social Environment
S331 Generalist Social Work Practice I: Theory and Skills (3 cr.)
P or C: S221 Human Growth and Development in the Social Environment
Elementary Composition
S102 Understanding Diversity in a Pluralistic Society
S332 Generalist Social Work Practice II: Theory/Skills (3 cr.)
P: S331 Generalist Social Work Practice I: Theory and Skills
S251 History and Analysis of Social Welfare Policy

P or C: S322 Small Group Theory and Practice
S352 Social Welfare Policy and Practice
P: S251 History and Analysis of Social Welfare Policy
S371 Social Work Research (3 cr.)
P: Junior standing according to the social work curriculum.
S423 Organizational Theory and Practice (3 cr.)
P or C: S322 Small Group Theory and Practice
S433 Community Behavior and Practice within a Generalist Perspective (3 cr.)
P: All 300-level social work courses.

C: S472 Practice Evaluation
S482 Social Work Practicum II
S442 Integrated Practice/Policy Seminar (3 cr.)
P: All 300-level courses

C: 423 Organization Behavior and Practice within a Generalist Perspective
S481 Social Work Practicum I (6 cr.)
S472 Social Work Practice Evaluation (3 cr.)
P: All 300-level courses

C: S433 Community Behavior and Practice within a Generalist Perspective
S482 Social Work Practicum II
S481 Social Work Practicum I (6 cr.)
P: All 300-level courses

P or C: 423 Organization Behavior and Practice within a Generalist Perspective
442 Integrative Practice-Policy Seminar
S482 Social Work Practicum II (7 cr.)
P: S481 Social Work Practicum I
S423 Organization Behavior and Practice within a Generalist Perspective
S442 Integrative Practice-Policy Seminar

P or C: S433 Community Behavior and Practice within a Generalist Perspective
S472 Practice Evaluation

Elective Course Opportunities

The social work program provides elective courses in relevant areas. Elective offerings depend on program resources and student demand, and not all electives are available on every campus.

Some examples of electives are listed below.

S201 Introduction to Case Management
S202 Introduction to Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling
S204 Writing in Professional Social Work
S280 Introduction to Field Experience (1 - 3 credit hours)
P: consent of the instructor
S300 Developmental Issues for Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual People (3 cr.)
S302 Law, Inequality and Poverty (3 cr.)
S305 Introduction to Child Protection (3 cr.)
S306 Crisis Intervention (3 cr.)
S307 Grief and Loss Across the Life Span (3 cr.)
S311 Aspects of Alcohol and Drug use: The individual (3 cr.)
S312 Substance Abuse and Social Services (3 cr.)
S313 Poverty in the United States (3 cr.)
S324 Social Systems Aspects of Alcohol and Drug Abuse
P or C: S202 Introduction to Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling
S350 Selected Topics in Social Work
S302 Law, Inequality and Poverty (3 cr.)
S305 Introduction to Child Protection (3 cr.)
S306 Crisis Intervention (3cr.)
S307 Grief and Loss Across the Life Span (3 cr.)
S372 Statistical Reasoning in Social Work (3 cr.)
S403 Alcohol/ Drug Treatment Seminar
P: S202 Introduction to Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling Social Work
S311 Aspects of Alcohol and Drug use: The individual
S324 Social Systems Aspects of Alcohol and Drug abuse
S331 Generalist Social Work Practice I: Theory and Skills or S314 Basic Counseling Skills
P or C: S332 Generalist Social Work Practice II: Theory and Skills (if did not take 314)
S460 Scholarly Writing Seminar (4 cr.)
S490 Independent Study (1 - 3 credit hours)

Pass-Fail Courses

Students can take up to four elective courses on a Pass-Fail basis. However, all required support and social work courses must be taken for a letter grade. Please note that IU Policies developed during Covid-19 in Spring 2020 take precedence over this policy.

Practicum Courses

Practicum courses allow students to apply and integrate content from all areas of the curriculum, developing competencies in generalist practice.

In the BSW Program, seniors enroll in two practicum courses. These courses are exclusively available to students admitted into the BSW Program who have completed all 300-level social work courses and have completed or are concurrently enrolled in 400-level courses. Practicum experiences cover various system sizes (individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities) and occur in diverse fields of practice (e.g., child welfare, mental health, medical, addictions, homelessness). Practica sites include community centers, child welfare agencies, mental health centers, nursing homes, and other specialized services. The BSW Practicum Manual can be accessed here. Depending upon the curriculum a student is completing, they will either complete SWK-S 481 and SWK-S 482 or SWK-S 483 and SWK-S 484. Consult with your advisor if you are unsure.

Minimum of 200 hours of supervised practice in a community agency (approximately 15 hours per week).

Participate in seminar classes taught by faculty liaisons.
Seminar assignments focus on practicum education experience and may include journaling, process recordings, and initial development of case presentation.
Faculty liaisons and agency field instructors provide support and guidance throughout the practicum experience.

2. S482 Social Work Practicum II (Spring Semester):

Students continue at the same agency as S481.
Enroll in this seven-credit-hour course.
Complete a minimum of 200 hours of supervised practice in a community agency.
Participate in seminar classes that integrate theoretical material from social work practice and theory courses.
Address real-world practice issues experienced in the practicum agency.
Demonstrate effective social work practice in the case presentation.

Most practicum sites in human service organizations expect students to practice during daytime hours. Availability for late afternoons, evenings, and weekends is limited. Applicants are encouraged to assess their daytime availability for practicum education courses before applying to the program.

Responsibilities of the School of Social Work for Successful Practicum Placements

Please review the practicum manual for more information.

Professional Liability Insurance

Review practicum manual for more information.

Chapter 5 Admission to the School of Social Work

Students who meet the criteria for admission to Indiana University and declare social work as their major will be directly admitted to the School of Social Work. This admission allows students to enroll in 100 and 200 level social work classes. For enrollment in 300 and 400 level social work courses, students must be certified into the Social Work Program. No formal application is required for the certification process.

Certification to the Social Work Program includes the following minimum requirements:

Admission to the university.
Satisfactory completion (grade of C or higher) of the required course SWK S141 Introduction to Social Work.
A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Completion of 12 credit hours.

The most up-to-date admission information may be found online at socialwork.iu.edu.

Sex Offenders Screening Policy Applicable to Students

Applicants and Transfer Students

Applicants must self-report any history of sexual offenses against children.
Any applicant or transfer student on the Sex Offender Registry is ineligible for admission or transfer and will be notified.

Continuing Students

Students whose names appear on the Registry during matriculation or who have been convicted of offenses listed on the Registry are ineligible for program continuation.

Notice

The electronic BSW Program application includes a notice that criminal convictions may affect eligibility for admission.

Non-exclusive Policy

The School reserves the right to take other appropriate actions in cases not covered by this policy.

Right to Appeal

Students already admitted to IUSSW programs can appeal if deemed ineligible due to criminal convictions, citing extenuating circumstances.

Policies

Criminal History Policy

A student with a criminal history other than those deriving from sexual offenses may be eligible for admission into IU BSW program. Eligibility in these circumstances is determined on a case-by-case assessment. While having a criminal background may not preclude students from participating in the BSW program, students should be aware of educational and professional implications. Agency policies and state laws may impose limitations for students and professionals with criminal histories attempting to obtain field placements, employment in certain practice settings, and/or professional licensure. Laws vary by state and are subject to change over time. Students should consult individual state licensing agencies for further information. While a student with a criminal background may view their own history as only a minor offence, field agencies may not. Some crimes, such as crimes of violence or dishonesty, are particularly disfavored. Applicants are advised that the School relies on third parties, such as social service agencies and other facilities, to provide field education and that a criminal history, or a serious driving infraction, can affect the School’s ability to find a placement; IUSSW has no control over these third parties and the School makes no guarantee that it can place any student, with a criminal history, or a serious driving infraction, even when charges may have been plea bargained down or resulted in probation or diversion. IU BSW program is not responsible for disruptions in a student’s educational plan resulting from a criminal background.

Students are required to disclose any convictions, charges, probation/diversion in writing unless the conviction has been expunged (even if a charge has been dismissed), or a serious driving infraction, as part of the formal admission process and again prior to beginning the field placement process. Students must report to the best of their ability anything that may come up on a national criminal background check on self-disclosure form. If in doubt, students should disclose the charge. This means that self-disclosures must be truthful, accurate, and complete. If a student knows of certain information yet is unsure whether to disclose it, the student must disclose the information. It is incumbent upon students to inform their social work advisor as soon as possible, of any criminal charges of any kind are levied against them at any point during the program, unless it has been expunged. Failure to disclose this information can result in dismissal.

Policy on Transfer of Social Work Credits

Students transferring from other accredited four-year institutions or community colleges to Indiana University undergo transcript evaluation by the University Admissions office. This evaluation assesses their progress toward meeting general education and supportive area degree requirements. In most cases, the University Admissions Office assessment is accepted for general and supportive area course requirements. However, students transferring from non-accredited institutions must apply to the BSW Program, even if they have been accepted elsewhere.

Beyond the 100 and 200-level courses, all social work students must enroll in an accredited social work program. Transfer courses taken at another accredited BSW program must meet Indiana University’s academic standards (earning a letter grade of ‘C’ or better). Additionally, these transfer courses should be deemed equivalent to the School of Social Work’s required social work courses by the Program Director at the campus where students are applying for admission.

The process for evaluating whether a social work course taken at another CSWE-accredited BSW program is accepted in place of an Indiana University required social work course involves the following steps:

The student submits the syllabus from the proposed transfer course, along with any relevant information, to the campus BSW Program Director or through the campus transfer course evaluation process.
If appropriate, the Program Director consults with the social work faculty member who teaches a similar course. Together, they determine whether the transfer course is acceptable as a substitute for the IUSSW course.
The Director communicates the acceptance or rejection of the transfer course in writing to the student.

Note that field practicum courses may not be transferred from another program.

*Campus specific policies may alter this process. Contact your program director with questions.

Policy on Inter-Campus Transfer for Social Work Students

Students accepted into the Bachelor of Social Work program may request a transfer from their initial IU campus to another IU campus. These transfer requests often arise due to changes in family, medical, or financial circumstances, necessitating proximity to home and community supports. To transfer to another IUSSW BSW Program campus, students must be in good standing, which includes acceptance in the BSW Program, a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better, and earning a grade of ‘C’ or better in each required social work course. Additionally, students must maintain a 2.0 GPA to graduate from the BSW Program.

Students communicate with their advisor and use the BSW Program Transfer request form. The BSW Program strives to accommodate transfer requests, considering student needs, campus resources, practicum availability, general education requirements, and course sequencing. However, there may be cases where student needs and campus resources do not align. In such instances, the transfer campus program director, in consultation with the initiating campus program director, may approve or deny the request.

If a transfer request is accepted, the student is responsible for initiating the appropriate inter-campus transfer process at the university level. Additionally, the student should be aware of any additional general education requirements specific to the transfer campus.

Policy on Returning Students

For students who have interrupted their education for an extended period, our program assesses the relevance and alignment of their past social work coursework with the current curriculum. If necessary, students may be required to retake specific courses.

Returning students who have been absent from the University for at least three consecutive years and have previously completed Social Work courses must undergo course revalidation. Our BSW program considers all social work courses older than five years as candidates for revalidation or retaking to meet BSW requirements. When evaluating completed courses, we consider the current state of knowledge in the subject matter, changes since the course completion, and current BSW competencies.

Chapter 6 BSW Program Advising

The advising program supports students throughout their educational journey as they prepare to become competent social workers. Advisors monitor student progress, provide consultation for course planning, and assist with problem-solving related to both classroom and fieldwork. They also facilitate communication between students and their instructors. The advising relationship emphasizes collaboration among administrators, faculty, and students. Upon admission, each student is assigned an advisor who holds at least a master’s degree in social work.

Role of the Advisor

Strengths and Career Goals: Advisors help students identify their emerging strengths and clarify personal career goals within the context of realistic professional opportunities.
Course Selection: Advisors assist students in selecting required and elective courses that align with program requirements, course sequencing, and their individual interests and abilities. They utilize tools such as the Degree Pathways and the Interactive Graduation Planning System.
Academic Assessment:
- Advisors assess students’ academic progress by considering the number of credits earned each semester in relation to their academic plans and anticipated graduation dates.
- They evaluate grades, including individual course grades and cumulative social work GPA, ensuring alignment with the BSW program’s grading policies.
Identifying Challenges:
- Advisors help students recognize conduct or academic deficiencies that may impact future academic performance. They guide students in addressing these challenges.
- When necessary, advisors connect students with campus or community services for financial needs, personal counseling, skill development, or other difficulties affecting academic performance.
Student Performance Review: Advisors participate in the Student Performance Review process for students identified with academic or conduct deficiencies, as outlined in the policy.
Support around Dismissals and Reinstatements: Advisors assist students who fail to meet academic requirements for continuation in the BSW program. This support may involve facilitating program transitions or providing information during appeal processes.
Ongoing Collaboration:
- The advising process is an ongoing, collaborative effort. Students are encouraged to consult with their advisors to anticipate and prevent serious difficulties.
- Many advisors use email and Student Online Advising Records (SOAR) to enhance communication promptness.
- Ultimately, students are responsible for the accuracy of their academic enrollment.

Checklist for BSW Students

Once joining the BSW Program:

Review and discuss degree requirements and your educational plan with your assigned academic advisor or the Program Director.
Develop an education plan based on the BSW Degree Pathway and adjust your class schedule accordingly.
Check your IU email account at least every 48 hours.
Complete (online) or attend the BSW student orientation.
Read and consult the BSW Student Handbook.
Familiarize yourself with IU and campus resources available to students.
Learn APA manual guidelines for all assignments submitted in BSW courses.
Confirm with your advisor that you have 120 hours to graduate and check your Academic Advising Report in Stellic.

Each Semester:

Meet with your assigned academic advisor.
Share your educational progress, struggles, and needs with your advisor.
Register for classes as advised (pay attention to sequenced courses).
If changes are needed in your education plan, contact your advisor or Program Director. Do not change your schedule until approved by your advisor.
Utilize available educational resources to enhance your scholastic performance.
Attend program meetings hosted by program administrators.
Support and participate in social work activities on campus.

Before Your Practicum Placement:

See the Practicum manual.

Semester Prior to Graduation:

Fill out the Commencement Application forms.
Meet with your assigned advisor to verify that all requirements will be completed by the December, May, June, or August deadlines.

Semester of Graduation:

Order your cap and gown.
Thoroughly read all graduation-related information.
Confirm with your advisor once again that all requirements have been met.
Attend the graduation ceremonies.

Reminder: Students are responsible for enrolling in and completing BSW courses according to the program’s guidelines.

Chapter 7 BSW Academic and Performance Standards

Continuation in the BSW Major

Students are considered in good academic standing and may continue enrollment in the School of Social Work when they:

Earn a minimum grade of C (2.0) in all required Social Work courses.
Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.

Graduation Requirements

To graduate with Social Work (BSW) degree, students must:

Achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
Complete the required social work courses with a C or better.
Complete 120 credit hours as required by the program.

Grade Appeal Policy

Petition for Change of Grade

If a student believes a semester grade was improper and capricious, they should follow these steps for resolution:

Step 1: The student should meet with the course instructor to resolve the matter.

Step 2: If the student is not satisfied with the resolution, they should follow these steps:

Within 15 working days after receiving the grade, meet with the respective campus BSW Program Director.
The director may request written documentation.
The director will consult with the instructor to attempt a resolution.
The program director will communicate the decision in writing to both the student and the instructor.
If the program director is the instructor of the course, the student will be referred to the Senior Program Director.*
If the Senior BSW Program Director is the instructor, the student will be referred to the Associate Dean.

Step 3: If the consultation with the BSW Program Director does not lead to a mutually agreeable solution, the student can submit a formal appeal to the Office of the Dean. Here’s how it works:

The Associate Dean usually handles all student issues on behalf of the Office of the Dean.
However, if the Associate Dean has already been involved in the grade issue due to the instructor being the Senior BSW Program Director, the appeal will be handled by the Dean or their designee.

Step 4: If the appeal is denied by the Office of the Dean, the student should refer to the University’s grade appeal policies and procedures for further guidance.

*On the IU Northwest campus the student is referred to the Associate Dean of the College of Health of Human Services.

Student Review Process

All students are admitted with the assumption that they possess the academic ability and personal suitability to complete their professional program. BSW Program students are expected to uphold the standards set by the School of Social Work and those of the social work profession. To support student success, participation in a Student Success Meeting (SSM) and/or a more serious Student Performance Review (SPR) may be requested in response to specific situations.

Grounds for SSM or SPR:

While this list is not exhaustive, the following behaviors may lead to a Student Standards Meeting (SSM) or a Student Progress Review (SPR):

Incongruent Conduct:
- Behavior inconsistent with the values and ethics of the social work profession (e.g., NASW, NABSW, CSWE) and the academic code of conduct at Indiana University.
- Includes actions in fieldwork, social media interactions, and classroom conduct that deviate from professional standards.
Disruptive Behavior:
- Actions that hinder the student’s functioning or jeopardize the well-being of others.
- Examples include threatening behavior or disruptions in academic settings.
Communication Issues:
- Ineffective verbal and written communication skills, including poor interviewing and interpersonal abilities.
Non-Adherence to Agency Policies:
- Failure to comply with practicum agency policies and professional standards.
Lack of Judgment:
- Poor decision-making, both in client work and personal matters.
- Failure to seek professional help for personal issues affecting professional functioning.
Incomplete Grades:
- Having more than one Incomplete simultaneously or receiving multiple Incomplete grades after program admission.
Academic Dishonesty:
- Cheating on exams or plagiarism (as outlined in Chapter 7, Indiana University and IUSSW Policy on Plagiarism).
Marginal Academic Performance:
- Subpar academic achievement.
Faculty Review Request:
- Faculty member requests a review due to poor coursework performance.
Failure to Disclose Criminal History:
- Not disclosing criminal history or serious driving infractions during the formal admission process or before field placement.

Effective communication between students, advisors, and faculty members is crucial. When an advisor or faculty member identifies specific criteria or at the student’s request, a Student Success Meeting (SSM) can be arranged. The SSM typically involves the student, the program director, and may include the advisor and other relevant faculty.

The purpose of the SSM is to collaboratively create a measurable plan to address identified issues or needs. This early intervention aims to provide clarity and timely solutions, ultimately supporting student retention and professional development. However, if a student fails to attend the SSM or does not follow through with the agreed-upon plan, this intervention may not be available.

In exceptional cases, the program director may schedule a Student Performance Review (SPR) without a prior SSM. All involved parties will have access to appropriate documentation in alignment with the IUSSW process.

Student Performance Review (SPR)

The Student Progress Review (SPR) serves as an intervention or response to address serious needs or problematic situations. When it is determined that a performance review is necessary based on the specified criteria or at the student’s request, the program director will schedule a meeting within a 14-day period and notify the student in writing. The SPR will involve, at a minimum, the student, their advisor (who acts as the student advocate), and the program director. Other faculty members may be invited as appropriate. While the student can invite an external support person to attend the review, this individual will not be allowed to contribute.

When a student’s performance is evaluated as deficient, the program director will determine an appropriate course of action to bring the student’s performance into compliance with School and professional standards. The outcomes of the review will be communicated in writing to the student. If feasible and desirable, the student may be placed on probationary status, and a probation contract will be established. This contract will outline specific problems to be addressed, actions required to resolve those issues, and a time frame for completion. Consequences for violating the probation terms will also be included in the contract.

The contract agreed upon in the SPR will be sent to the student via IU email. If the student fails to fulfill the contract or if serious impropriety or academic performance issues arise during the contract period, discontinuation from the BSW program may be considered. This determination can occur at any point during enrollment, including the final semester. All relevant parties will have access to appropriate documentation in alignment with the IUSSW process.

Retention Policy

Students will be placed on academic alert, notice, or probation (as described and defined on each campus) under the following conditions:

Earning less than C (2.0) in a required Social Work course.
Students must repeat the course and earn a C or better on the second attempt to avoid dismissal, changes in their enrollment plan, and delays in graduation.
Having a cumulative GPA below 2.0.

While on Alert, Notice, Probation:

Students must earn a semester GPA above 2.0 to demonstrate academic progress.
Students who fail to achieve a semester GPA of above 2.0 for two consecutive semesters while on probation may be dismissed.

Students will be notified when a negative service indicator affecting registration is placed on their record. This hold will prevent registration until the student meets with their academic advisor. The negative service indicator will be adjusted as needed for registration and removed once the student returns to good academic standing.

The academic advisor and student will work together to develop a personalized success plan, which includes steps to return to good academic standing. The plan may include referrals to additional support resources. Advisors will discuss the student’s academic goals, monitor progress, and collaborate with the Program Director and Recorder to ensure appropriate follow-up and timely preparation for registration.

Dismissal Policy

A student may be dismissed from the School of Social Work if any of the following occur:

Cumulative GPA remains below 2.0 for two consecutive semesters.
Semester GPA falls below 2.0 for two consecutive semesters while on probation.
Failure to earn a minimum grade of C (2.0) in any required Social Work course after two attempts in the same course.
Failure to meet professional conduct standards as outlined in the School of Social Work Student Handbook.
Failure to make consistent and appropriate academic progress relevant to the major.
Failure to meet the campus specific GPA requirements to maintain enrollment.

When a Program Director determines that dismissal from the School of Social Work is the appropriate recommendation, the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs must be informed prior to communicating the decision to the student. Students will be notified when a dismissal indicator is placed on their record. Students must complete the reinstatement process for the School of Social work and the campus to be eligible for reenrollment.

Use of Professional Judgment

Program Directors may exercise professional judgment in evaluating individual student circumstances, particularly in cases where unique academic, personal, or contextual factors warrant additional consideration. This discretion should be applied thoughtfully and consistently to support student success while upholding program standards.

Reinstatement Procedures for Dismissals

A student who wishes to continue in the program may request reinstatement from the respective BSW program director. The request for reinstatement must be submitted in writing and address two major points:

Identification of Extenuating Factors: The student should identify any extenuating factors that contributed to their poor performance in the course.
Steps for Improvement: The student should discuss the actions they plan to take to alleviate the impact of those factors and improve their academic performance if allowed to continue in the program.

The written request for reinstatement must be submitted no later than twelve months after receiving notification of dismissal.

Upon reviewing the student’s request, the Program Director will consult with appropriate faculty, including the student’s advisor, and make a decision. The Program Director will communicate the decision in writing, including via email, to both the student and the advisor. Additionally, the student will be informed of their right to appeal a negative decision regarding reinstatement.

Social work courses may be repeated after a student is reinstated in the program or with permission from the Program Director.

During the reinstatement process, students must disclose any criminal charges that have not been expunged. Failure to provide this information can result in dismissal.

Procedures to Appeal a Negative Reinstatement Decision

If a student has not been reinstated by the BSW Program Director, they may choose to appeal by presenting a substantive written statement within 15 days*. This appeal should be submitted to the Dean’s Office of the School of Social Work for review. The appeal is typically reviewed by the Dean or their designee, often the Senior BSW Program Director. The Dean’s Office serves as the final option for appeal within the School of Social Work.

During the review process, the Dean or designee may decide to convene an Appeal Committee if additional information is needed. This step is entirely at the discretion of the reviewer. The Appeal Committee will consist of at least three full-time faculty members (excluding the advisor) who were not primary actors in the student’s dismissal.

If an Appeal Committee is convened, the Chair of the Committee will inform all parties involved. The student will receive a notice at least 15 working days in advance, both by certified mail and IU email, regarding the meeting date. During the appeal, the student has the right to:

Present Information: The student can present information on their behalf.
Guests: The student may have up to two additional guests. If these guests are students or external to the IU system, FERPA rights must be respected, and the student will be asked to sign a release of information. Generally, only guests with relevant information related to the dismissal issue are invited to speak. The student and their guests may be present only for the information-giving portion of the meeting and must leave before the Committee’s deliberation.
Advisor’s Role: The student’s advisor will meet with them before the hearing. During the hearing, the advisor will present comprehensive information about the student’s overall academic and professional performance. The advisor may ask questions during the proceedings and recommend actions to address the performance problem. However, the advisor does not have a vote.
Committee Decision: The Appeal Committee’s recommended actions will be communicated in writing to the Dean’s Office of the School of Social Work*. Copies will be sent to the student, student’s advisor, and placed in the student’s official electronic file. The decision by the Dean or designee is final.

* Students on the Gary campus follow the IU Northwest appeal process, which involves the Dean of the College of Health and Human Services. Information regarding the appeal process on the IU Northwest Campus can be found in the IU Northwest Supplement of this Handbook.

Confidentiality

All procedures related to a performance review must be conducted in a manner that ensures protection of the student’s right to privacy regarding information about their academic records, performance, and conduct. All written documents prepared for dismissal or review will be placed in the student’s permanent file. The student has the right to review all written information presented to either the Performance Review or the Appeals committee.

Members of the committee and other individuals who participate in the hearing are expected to maintain confidentiality regarding all aspects of the proceedings. The committee’s actions are to remain confidential and should only be shared with those individuals involved with the student in an educational capacity.

Bereavement Policy

As part of the mission of the Indiana University School of Social Work (IUSSW) to promote health and well-being for all, we acknowledge the impact that significant loss can have on students and their academic performance.

If a student experiences the death of a family member, relative, or other significant loss, the student will be excused from class for bereavement for up to seven (7) calendar days. Requests for bereavement leave and/or additional days, e.g. for travel, cultural, or faith traditions, must be made to the program director or the designee for the campus in which the student is enrolled. The student must provide the request in writing via email. The program director or designee will notify the student’s instructors of the request. Upon return, the student must contact each faculty member to arrange to make up any missed assignments.

Students who are in a practicum placement must also notify their Field and/or Task Instructor to negotiate absences from their agency. Students must make up any hours missed to accumulate the required number of hours for each practicum.

In exceptional situations, absences more than what is covered by this policy may significantly impede a student’s ability to successfully complete a course. In such cases, the student should first discuss options for course completion or withdrawal with their instructors. If the student determines they are not able to return after 7 days, they should contact their program director or designee about possible options.

Process

If a student will be absent due to a significant loss, they are responsible for promptly notifying the program director or designee. The program director or designee will then communicate with the student’s course instructors regarding the bereavement leave of absence. If needed, additional documentation may be requested.

Support Services

Students dealing with grief and loss benefit from supportive, empathetic environments where they can process their experiences. Reach out to your advisor or program director for information on available supportive services at your campus.

Disclaimer

This policy applies to all classes offered by the Indiana University School of Social Work (IUSSW). The program director or designee will request that students’ other professors also honor and respect the terms of this policy. While it is the right of professors outside of the IUSSW to choose whether to follow this policy, the School of Social Work cannot enforce it beyond our system school. If necessary, a student could petition the Office of Academic Affairs on their respective campuses regarding other classes.

Academic and Scholarly Guidelin

In the BSW program, attendance in both class and practicum is mandatory.
For in person classes, students are expected to arrive a few minutes before classes start and remain for the entire class period.
For online classes, students are expected to participate regularly in canvas activities and communicate consistently with course instructors and peers.
Failure to attend and fully participate will violate program expectations, and students may be subject to penalties as specified in course syllabi and field practicum documents. Regular class and practicum attendance is considered the personal and professional responsibility of each BSW student.
BSW students are expected to actively participate in BSW orientation, course peer reviews, field meetings, and other educational functions.
Students are expected to demonstrate interest in and respect for their colleagues in a manner consistent with the values, ethics, and professional skills of the field.
Students are encouraged to always create a respectful and civil environment.

Indiana University Codes of Conduct

BSW students are expected to review and adhere to the Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct at Indiana University. This code ensures that your rights as an IU student are protected and outlines your responsibilities to the campus community. You can find more information on the Indiana University Student Code website.

Scholarly Writing Guidelines

In written assignments, students are expected to adhere to the following guidelines:

Scholarly and Professional Manner: Prepare documents in a scholarly and professional manner.
Formatting: Submissions should be typewritten in double-space format.
Editing: Carefully edit for spelling and grammar.
Citations: Properly annotate all direct quotations, paraphrases, empirical research findings, and other restatements of others’ work using the standard bibliographic citation methods outlined by the American Psychological Association (APA).
APA Style: The most current edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association serves as the guide for style and format of all papers submitted in the BSW program.

For more information on APA style, you can visit the Purdue Online Writing Lab APA Website.

Effective social work practice relies on well-developed communication skills, including written expression. Clear writing enables social workers to convey information accurately and concisely to various stakeholders involved in supporting diverse client systems. In social work courses, formal writing assignments are assessed based on both scholarly content and presentation quality. Additionally, professional writing is essential when using email.

For further guidance, students experiencing writing challenges are encouraged to seek assistance from available campus resources.

Indiana University and IUSSW Policy on Plagiarism

The School of Social Work follows the Indiana University policy on plagiarism which states: Plagiarism is a form of cheating and is grounds for failing the course and possible dismissal from the program and/or university. Plagiarism is defined as presenting someone else’s work, including the work of other students, as one’s own. Any ideas or materials taken from another source for either written or oral use must be fully acknowledged, unless the information is common knowledge.

A student must not adopt or reproduce ideas, opinions, theories, formulas, graphics, or pictures of another person without acknowledgment.

A student must give credit to the originality of others and acknowledge indebtedness whenever:

Directly quoting another person’s actual words, whether oral or written;
Using another person’s ideas, opinions, or theories;
Paraphrasing the words, ideas, opinions, or theories of others, whether oral or written;
Borrowing facts, statistics, or illustrative material; or
Offering materials assembled or collected by others in the form of projects or collections without acknowledgment.

A student must not submit substantial portions of the same academic work for credit or honors more than once without permission of the instructor or program to whom the work is being submitted.

IU School of Social Work Addendum to Indiana University Policy on Plagiarism

In addition to the university’s statement on plagiarism, which is published in the IU Student Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct, the IU School of Social Work defines plagiarism as follows:

Intentional or Unintentional Use of Information: Plagiarism occurs when a student uses information from another person without proper acknowledgment. Even if this use is unintentional, it still makes the work appear to be the student’s own, benefiting them at the expense of the original author.
Copying from Websites: Plagiarism also includes copying or using information from websites without appropriately documenting the internet source.
Buying or Using Pre-Written Documents: Submitting work purchased or written by someone else is considered plagiarism.
Self-Plagiarism: Submitting any part of one’s own previously submitted work without proper acknowledgment and citation is also considered plagiarism.
AI Use: Lastly, using artificial intelligence that has not been approved by the instructor may also constitute plagiarism.

Academic Honors

Dean’s List

The BSW program recognizes student excellence through the Dean’s List.
BSW students with a semester GPA of 3.5 or better will be named to the Dean’s List.
Eligibility: Students taking a full course load (12 credit hours or more) in either the Fall or Spring semesters.
The Dean’s List is compiled twice a year.
Notification: Students will be informed either by the Dean of IUSSW or by their campus Division of Undergraduate Education. The list may also be published online.

Graduating With Honors

Graduating students in the upper 10 percent of their class receive special recognition.
These students graduate with Distinction (Highest, High, or With Distinction).
They are awarded colored “cords” to wear on their graduation gowns during the commencement ceremony.

*Campus specific policies may affect this policy

Chapter 8 BSW Policies and Procedures

These additional policies outline the operational framework for the BSW Program.

Student Academic Files

Each social work student has an academic file that supports the advising process. The 481 and 482 Learning Plan ) become part of these files. All student records are confidential. Students can request to review their files from the BSW program director or designee on each campus. File perusal occurs in the presence of the program director or designee. If a student transfers from one campus to another, their academic file follows them. For specific information on federal guidelines regarding student record confidentiality (FERPA), refer to Appendix G.

Incomplete Policy

An instructor may assign a grade of Incomplete (I) only under exceptional circumstances, such as illness, injury, or a family emergency preventing a student from completing all required course work. The Incomplete grade is considered when a substantial portion of the coursework has already been done, the quality is satisfactory, and no more than one major exam or assignment remains outstanding. If a student does not meet these requirements, they should consult their advisor to withdraw from the relevant course(s). Students should refer to the Registrar’s Office on their respective campus for policies and deadlines related to automatic withdrawal for the semester.

The student initiates the request for an Incomplete grade. If the instructor agrees, both the instructor and student complete the Incomplete form in the Social Work Student Services Portal. This ensures a well-defined educational plan and timeframe for completing course requirements. Failure to meet the terms of this contract within the specified timeframe may result in a failing grade. To remove an Incomplete grade, students must adhere to the IUSSW policy, which takes precedence over the University policy. In the School of Social Work, students are expected to promptly complete outstanding coursework, as many courses serve as prerequisites for others. Generally, students may carry no more than one Incomplete grade at a time. However, in severe crises, a student may work with their advisor to request Incomplete grades in multiple courses.

If a student believes they have been treated unfairly or unprofessionally by a faculty or staff member, or if they find a policy or procedure unjust or unwise, they can submit a formal grievance petition per the policy below*. Grievance petitions are reserved for issues or incidents that require thorough investigation. It’s important to submit these petitions in a professional manner, consistent with social work values and ethics.

Student Grievance Procedures

Purpose

The School of Social Work is committed to maintaining a fair, equitable, and professional learning environment consistent with social work values, the NASW Code of Ethics, and Indiana University policies. These procedures provide a structured process through which students may raise and resolve concerns related to academic or professional matters within the School.

Scope

These procedures apply to student concerns alleging:

Unfair, inequitable, or unprofessional treatment by School of Social Work faculty or staff; or
The application or interpretation of a School of Social Work policy or procedure in a manner that is unjust, inconsistent, or unreasonable.

Concerns governed by separate university-level policies (such as discrimination or harassment) are addressed through established institutional processes and are excluded from these procedures.

Informal Resolution

Consistent with professional practice standards, students and instructors are encouraged to attempt to resolve concerns informally and at the earliest possible stage, when appropriate. Informal resolution may include direct communication with the individual(s) involved and consultation with an academic advisor.

If additional assistance is needed, students may seek support through the following administrative sequence:

Program Director
School of Social Work Associate Dean for Academic Affairs
School of Social Work Dean

Not all concerns require progression through each level, and informal resolution may be bypassed when the nature of the concern makes such attempts inappropriate.

Formal Grievance

Formal grievance petitions are reserved for issues or incidents that warrant a formal and thorough review. A student may submit a formal grievance if:

Informal resolution efforts have been unsuccessful; or
The circumstances make informal resolution inappropriate.

Formal grievances must be submitted in writing to the Dean of the School of Social Work and should include:

A clear description of the concern or incident
Relevant dates and individuals involved
A description of steps taken toward informal resolution, if applicable
Identification of the policy, procedure, or professional standard alleged to have been violated
The requested resolution or outcome

All grievance petitions must be prepared and submitted in a professional, respectful manner consistent with social work values and ethical standards.

Review and Determination

Upon receipt of a formal grievance, the Dean or designee will determine whether the grievance falls within the jurisdiction of the School and meets the criteria for formal review. The Dean may conduct or delegate an investigation, request additional documentation, and consult with relevant parties as appropriate.

Possible outcomes of the grievance review may include, but are not limited to:

Dismissal of the grievance
Informal resolution or mediation
Policy clarification or guidance
Other actions consistent with School and university authority

The Dean’s determination represents the final decision at the school level. Individuals seeking further review may do so through applicable university-level appeal processes, in accordance with established university policies.

Confidentiality and Professional Conduct

All parties involved in the grievance process are expected to maintain confidentiality to the extent permitted by law and university policy. Retaliation against any individual for filing or participating in a grievance is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.

Matters Governed by University Policy

Student complaints involving discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, racial harassment, or harassment based on sexual orientation or other protected characteristics are governed by established university policies and procedures. These matters must be addressed through the processes outlined in the Indiana University Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct and are not resolved through the School of Social Work grievance procedures.

* Students on the Gary campus follow the IU Northwest appeal process which involves the Dean of the College of Health and Human Services. Information regarding the appeal process on the IU Northwest campus can be found in the IU Northwest supplement of this handbook.

Civility

In 1999, the Bloomington Faculty Council approved a Statement of Civility that defines the importance of civility within Indiana University. The IUSSW has adopted this policy and expects students to adhere to its tenets.

As members of an institution of higher education, we have dedicated ourselves to creating an environment where each individual is important and can succeed. Our institutional ethic compels us to foster the best possible environment for doing our work as educators, learners, and supporters of the educational process. When any one of our members is prevented from doing her or his best, the entire community is diminished. As members of an institution of higher learning, we must periodically reaffirm the fundamental ethics and values that form the framework for our university.

Among those values is fostering a climate of civility and mutual respect. Because the university is so complex and diverse, we will not always agree with one another. Nevertheless, we expect everyone to speak and act with respect for one another. This civility and respect should be extended to all persons regardless of their role at Indiana University, and regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and age.

If we are to be true to our commitment to diversity and welcoming all, everyone must do his or her part. While no set of rules or policies can wholly govern human conduct, it is important to state that civility is a fragile construct that each of us must cherish and preserve (Bloomington Academic Guide, Policy 1-3, 1999).

Student Technology Use

Computers play a valuable role in supporting classroom learning activities. These activities include note-taking and accessing course readings during discussions. However, it’s essential to recognize that non-academic use of laptops and other devices can be distracting and significantly disrupt the learning process for everyone. Therefore, in the classroom, computers and electronic devices should be used exclusively for academic purposes. This policy prohibits activities such as emailing, texting, social networking, and general internet browsing during class time.

Cell Phone Policy

The use of cell phones during class time is at the discretion of the instructor. If allowed, students should ensure their phones are set to silent before class begins. In case of an emergency, students are expected to step out of the room to take the call. Failure to meet these expectations may result in a loss of participation points or a request from the instructor to leave class.

Additionally, students should refrain from texting or engaging in social media interactions on their cell phones during class lectures. However, there may be instances when cell phones are used for in-class activities, following the direction of the instructor.

As students, it’s essential to maintain proper email etiquette when communicating with faculty, staff, and peers. Always strive for correct grammar and spelling in your emails. Inappropriate use of email may result in student review.

For detailed guidelines on acceptable technology and information resource usage, please refer to the IU online safety website.

Additionally, to ensure confidentiality and compliance with FERPA regulations, the BSW program requires students to use their official IU email accounts when corresponding with the program. Faculty may not respond to student emails sent from NON-university accounts.

Social Media and Digital Communication Policy

Professional and Ethical Standards in Digital Communication

Students are expected to uphold the ethical and professional standards of the social work profession in all settings, including all forms of digital communication. This expectation applies to interactions on social media, networking platforms, blogs, discussion forums, and messaging applications. Professionalism, respect, and ethical conduct are required in digital environments in the same manner as in face-to-face practice.

Professional Boundaries and Dual Relationships

Students must maintain appropriate professional boundaries in all online interactions with classmates, faculty, practicum instructors, clients, agency personnel, and other individuals connected to their academic or practicum responsibilities. Online communication that creates, or appears to create, dual relationships, conflicts of interest, or boundary concerns will be reviewed under School of Social Work and practicum agency standards.

Confidentiality and Protection of Client Information

Students are prohibited from posting, sharing, or referencing confidential, sensitive, or identifying information about clients, agencies, practicum placements, classmates, faculty, or course activities. This includes indirect descriptions or details that could reasonably lead to identification. Confidentiality obligations apply in all digital contexts, regardless of privacy settings, and reflect the same standards required in professional social work practice.

Professional Communication and Representation

Students are expected to communicate respectfully and professionally in all online interactions related to academic, practicum, or professional activities. Digital content that violates the NASW Code of Ethics, practicum agency policies, or School of Social Work standards may result in academic or professional consequences. Students should be aware that online content may be reviewed by practicum agencies or future employers as part of professional screening processes.

Compliance and Accountability

Behavior that is inconsistent with the School’s Code of Ethics may be subject to review, even if it occurs outside of Indiana University or is not directly connected to academic activities.

Online behavior that violates the NASW Code of Ethics, School of Social Work policies, university policies, or practicum agency standards may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from the program.

Reviews of online conduct will focus on breaches of ethical obligations, confidentiality, professional boundaries, or practicum responsibilities.

Nondiscrimination Policy for People with Disabilities

Indiana University is committed to ensuring equal access and opportunities for all individuals, including those with disabilities. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the university prohibits discrimination based on disability. Here are the key points:

Equal Benefits:
- IU will not exclude or deny benefits to any otherwise qualified person due to a disability.
- This applies to job applicants, employees, compensation, job advancement, and training.
Accessibility Services:
- Students with disabilities can access services on each campus to facilitate their full participation in educational opportunities.
- These services ensure equal access to academic programs, facilities, and resources.
Compliance Questions:
- If you have questions about compliance requirements or need assistance, please contact the following:

IU Bloomington students:

Please contact the Office of Accessible Educational Services. (812) 855-7578.

IU Fort Wayne students:

Please contact Disability Access Center 260-481-6657; fax 260-481-6018.

IU Indianapolis students:

Please contact Accessible Educational Services (317) 274-3241.

IU Northwest students:

Please contact Academic Success and Achievement Programs. (219) 981-4296 or (219) 980-6941.

IU South Bend students:

Please contact the Accessible Educational Services (574) 520-4460.

Posthumous Degree Policy

The Indiana School of Social Work recognizes the dedication and commitment of students enrolled in its degree programs. In the unfortunate event that a student in good standing passes away before completing their degree, the School of Social Work may confer an honorary Posthumous Degree upon the family or significant other of the deceased in the year following their death.

Chapter 9 Student Assessment and Feedback

The School of Social Work values its students as adult learners who contribute significantly to the ongoing development and advancement of the BSW program. To ensure a comprehensive and effective program, student input is sought in the following key areas: program assessment, faculty evaluation, School committees/task forces, search and screen process, and student field practica.

Program Assessment

As accrediting body, the Council on Social Work Education has moved to a competency-based educational model (CSWE, 2022).
The BSW program assesses student competency based on CSWE-identified behaviors.
Assessment includes ratings from students, field instructors (S481/482 field evaluation), and faculty (case presentations).

Faculty Evaluation

Students evaluate their courses each semester using standardized course/faculty evaluation forms.
Online evaluations may be provided.
Results are confidential and used to improve teaching methods.

School Committees/Task Forces

Students can participate in school committees/task forces through elected representatives.

Search and Screen Process

Students may meet with candidates for faculty positions informally or formally.

Student Field Practicum

Students evaluate agencies where they complete their practicum experiences.

Chapter 10 Student Opportunities

Students are encouraged to participate in both BSW sponsored university organizations and external professional social work organizations. Some of the organizations are:

Student Social Work Organizations / Clubs

BSW students can organize social work clubs on any of the IUSSW campuses based on their interests. The School recognizes student organizations as integral components of professional education. Social Work students sometimes create an association specifically around being social work students, and these have different names on different campuses. While these organizations are autonomous, the campus Program Director (or designee) serves as an advisor to encourage group identification and guide student participation in the BSW program. Student association officers assist with formulating and modifying policies related to student affairs, writing student grants, and implementing student-related projects.

Phi Alpha Honor Society-Kappa Gamma Chapter

Students who have completed the first semester of junior year social work courses with an overall GPA of 3.50 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) and a GPA of 3.50 or higher in required social work classes are invited to join the Phi Alpha Honor Society. The overall GPA calculation includes all courses from the student’s undergraduate career, including those taken from other higher education institutions.

National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has over 150,000 members worldwide. As a member, students receive all the benefits and privileges of regular membership at a reduced cost. These benefits include the Social Work Journal, the monthly newsletter, the State newsletter, group rate health and disability insurance coverage, and discounts on all NASW specialty journals. Students are encouraged to join the association immediately after admission into the program. The NASW Indiana Chapter is located at 1100 W. 42nd Street, Suite #226, Indianapolis, IN 46208. You can contact them at (317) 923-9878 or email naswin@naswin.org. Additionally, visit the NASW Indiana website.

National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW)

As mentioned earlier, the National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW) was established in May of 1968 in San Francisco, California, to promote the welfare, survival, and liberation of the Black community. Membership is open to any African-American employed in a social work capacity, or others not employed but working in a voluntary capacity in a social work setting or program and who accept and adhere to the Constitution and By-Laws of the Association.

The purpose of the organization is to:

provide a structure and forum though which Black social workers, any workers in related fields of social service, and interested citizens may exchange ideas, offer their services, and develop or refine skills in the interest of the Black community and the community-at-large.
work in cooperation with, or to support, develop, or sponsor community welfare projects and programs which will serve the interest of the Black community and the community-at-large.
strengthen human services in all service systems in all aspects pertaining to the Black community, and to ensure that services are available to Black individuals, families, groups, and the community.

For information regarding a local chapter of the NABSW, contact: National Association of Black Social Workers, Central Indiana Chapter, Inc., P.O. Box 20149, Indianapolis, Indiana 46220-0149, (317) 767-5502, or visit the NABSW website.

BSW Child Welfare Scholars Program

Program Overview:
- The Child Welfare Scholars Program is designed for BSW students.
- It provides specialized coursework and practicum experiences leading to employment as a public child welfare worker in Indiana.
- Participants receive financial support from the Department of Child Services (DCS).
Commitment:
- Scholars graduate with a minimum two-year commitment to work with the DCS.
- Stipend recipients commit to one year of employment.
Application and Benefits:
- Interested BSW students apply during the fall semester of their junior year.
- Selected students receive full in-state tuition, mandatory fees, and a stipend during their senior year.
- Stipends cover books, travel for practicum, and additional training expenses.
Eligibility:
- Students must maintain full-time status (minimum 12 credit hours).
- Minimum overall GPA of 2.5 and a minimum 3.0 GPA in social work courses are required.

For further details, please contact the campus BSW program director.

Chapter 11 Scholarship Opportunities

Scholarships Overview:

The School of Social Work offers scholarships for BSW students who demonstrate achievements, leadership, and service.
These scholarships assist with spring tuition expenses, and awards are generally modest.
Students are notified by email when scholarship applications are available (usually around September 1).
The notice includes available scholarships for the academic year and application instructions.
Students must first complete the IU general scholarship application at one.IU.edu.

Award Process:

Scholarship awards are made around the first of December.
Recipients must complete fulfillment tasks by a specified deadline.
Checking email and responding in BAM (Blackbaud Award Management) by the deadline is crucial to avoid delays in awarding the scholarship.

Additional Opportunities:

Students may explore other scholarship opportunities open to incoming and continuing students at their individual campuses.

Occasionally, new opportunities with different deadlines may arise, and students will be notified via email.
Below are a list of some of these scholarships offered through the campus partners:

Appendix A: Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards

The IU School of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Appendix B: BSW Independent Study

If you would like to pursue an Independent Study and have a good idea for it, discuss with your advisor and then complete the ‘Independent Study Request’ form.

Appendix C: Grading Criteria for BSW Papers

When citing sources in APA format, follow these guidelines:

In-Text Citations (Author-Date Method): When referencing a source within the text of your paper, include the author’s last name and the year of publication. For example: (Jones, 1998). Each in-text citation corresponds to a full reference in the reference list at the end of the paper.
Reference List:
- The reference list should be on a new page at the end of your document.
- It should be centered and alphabetically arranged by the first author’s last name (or by title if the author is unknown).
- Include full references for all in-text citations used.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the APA Formatting and Style Guide (7th Edition) provided by the Purdue OWL. This guide covers various aspects of APA style, including formatting, in-text citations, and reference list entries. Remember that the APA Manual serves as the authoritative source for style and format in academic papers.

Guidelines for Effective Social Work Writing

Effective practice in generalist social work relies on strong writing skills to accurately and concisely communicate information to others involved in helping client systems. Formal writing assignments will be evaluated based on both content and clarity. The grade for a paper will be determined by the following criteria:

I. Presentation and Appearance

Neatness
Correct grammar (including noun-verb agreement, sentence structure, and consistent verb tense)
Use of non-sexist language
Spelling
Punctuation
Correct usage of the current edition of APA style

II. Organization

Structure and format of the paper
Logical sequencing and continuity of ideas
Clarity of expression
Conciseness

III. Content

Content will be assessed based on the specific paper assignment.

Additional Notes:

All formal papers should be typed, double-spaced, and paginated.
Use APA style consistently.
Copies of the APA Manual are available at the campus bookstore and serve as a valuable resource in your library.

Indianapolis students experiencing writing difficulties are advised to seek assistance at the University Writing Center in Room 427 of Cavanaugh Hall. Please call 317-274-2049 to schedule an appointment or drop by the University Writing Center to pick up some written handouts available. If you really get in a pinch call the Writing Hotline at 317-278-9999.

In Bloomington, contact Writing Tutorial Services at 812-855-6738, Wells Library.

In Fort Wayne, contact the Purdue Fort Wayne Writing Center, 260-481-5740 or by email.

In Gary, contact the Writing Center at 219-980-6502, Hawthorn Hall 418.

In Richmond, contact the Writing Center at 765-973-8431, Springwood Hall, Rm. 202.

In South Bend, contact the Academic Centers for Excellence at 574-520-5022, or visit the Writer’s Room in Schurz Library, 1st floor.

Appendix D: Select Social Work Related Journals

Journals

Advances in Social Work: Linking Research, Education & Practice
Advocate for Human Services
Administration in Social Work
Affilia: Journal of Women and Social Work
Aids and Ethics
Aging
Alabama Social Welfare
American Journal of Family Therapy
American Journal of Orthopsychiatry
American Journal on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
American Rehabilitation
Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science
Asia Pacific Journal of Social Work
Australian Social Work
Black Caucus Journal
British Journal of Psychiatry
British Journal of Social Work
Canadian Social Work Revue
Child and Adolescent Social Work
Child and Youth Services Child Development
Child Welfare
Children and Youth Services Review
Children Today
Clinical Social Work Journal
Community Mental Health Journal
Corrections Magazine
Counseling Education and Supervision
Crime and Delinquency
Crime and Social Justice
Criminology: An Inter-disciplinary Journal
Daedalus
Death Education, Pedagogy, Counseling and Care
Education and Training of the Mentally Retarded
Exceptional Children
European Journal of Social Work
Family Law Quarterly
Family Relations
Families in Society: Journal of Contemporary Human Services
Family Coordinator
Federal Probation
From the State Capitals: Juvenile Delinquency and Family Relations
Gerontologist
Group for the Advancement of Psychiatry – Reports
Health and Social Work
Hispanic Today
Hospital and Community Psychiatry
Human Relations
Human Services in the Rural Environment
Indian Journal of Social Work
International Journal of Family Counseling
International Journal of Social Welfare
International Social Work
Iowa Journal of Social Work
Journal of Baccalaureate Social Work
Journal of Drug Education
Journal of Drug Issues
Journal of Education for Social Work
Journal of European Social Policy
Journal of Gerontology
Journal of Gerontological Social Work
Journal of Homosexuality
Journal of Human Resources
Journal of Intergroup Relations
Journal of Marriage and the Family
Journal of Psychiatric Social Work
Journal of Rehabilitation
Journal of Social Issues
Journal of Social Policy (Croatia)
Journal of Social Service Research
Journal of Social Work Education
Journal of Social History
Journal of Sociology and Social Work
Marriage and Family Living
New Global Development: Journal of
International and Comparative Social Welfare
Nordisk Sosialt Arbeid
Practice Digest
Public Welfare Record
SAGE Family Studies Abstracts
School of Social Work Journal
Sex Roles: A Journal of Research
Sexuality and Disability
Signs: A Journal of Women in Culture and Society
Small Group Behavior
Social and Rehabilitation Record
Social Development Issues
Social Forces
Social Perspectives
Social Policy
Social Problems
Social Security Bulletin
Social Service Review
Social Studies
Social Work and Christianity
Social Work in Health Care
Social Work in Europe
Social Work
Journal of the National Association of Social Workers
Social Work Maatskaplike Werk
Social Work Research and Abstracts
Social Work Today
Social Work with Groups
Sociology of Work and Occupations
Studies in Family Planning
The Indian Journal of Social Work
The Indigenous Non-Professional
The New Social Worker
The Newsletter of the American Association Urban Studies
Welfare in Review

Appendix E: Policy Against Sexual Harassment

By Action of the Trustees of Indiana University

Harassment on the basis of sex is a violation of federal and state law. Indiana University does not tolerate sexual harassment of its faculty, staff or students. Individuals who believe they are the victims of sexual harassment, as well as those who believe they have observed sexual harassment, are strongly urged to report such incidents promptly. Indiana University will investigate every sexual harassment complaint in a timely manner and, when there is a finding of sexual harassment, take corrective action to stop the harassment and prevent the misconduct from recurring. The severity of the corrective action, up to and including discharge or expulsion of the offender, will depend on the circumstances of the particular case.

Once a person in a position of authority at Indiana University has knowledge, or should have had knowledge, of conduct constituting sexual harassment, the university is exposed to liability. Therefore, any administrator, supervisor, manager or faculty member who is aware of sexual harassment and condones it, by action or inaction, is subject to disciplinary action.

A. Definitions

Following federal guidelines, Indiana University defines sexual harassment as follows:

Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when:

submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or academic advancement;
submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis of for employment or academic decisions affecting such individual; or
such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or learning environment.

B. Application

This University policy is designed to protect all members of the University community. It applies to relationships among peers as well as to superior/subordinate relationships. It also applies to all individuals, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.

C. Provisions

Faculty, staff and students have the right to raise the issue of sexual harassment. Further harassment against complainants or retaliation against complainants or others who participate in the investigation of a complaint will not be tolerated. Appropriate and prompt disciplinary or remedial action will be taken against persons found to be engaging in such further harassment.

The university will deal with reports of sexual harassment in a fair and thorough manner, which includes protecting, to the extent possible and to the extent permitted by law, the privacy and reputational interests of the accusing and accused parties.
Education is the best tool for the prevention and elimination of sexual harassment. Each dean, director, department chair, and/or administrative officer is responsible within his/her area of jurisdiction for the implementation of this policy, including its dissemination and explanation.
It is the obligation and shared responsibility of all members of the University community to adhere to this policy.

D. Enforcement Principles

Enforcement and implementation of this sexual harassment policy will observe the following principles:

Each campus must have procedures–consistent with notions of due process–for implementing this policy including where complaints are made, who investigates complaints, how complaints are resolved, what procedures are available for appeal, and how records are kept.
The Campus Director of the Office of Equal Opportunity shall serve as a resource with regard to interpretation of sexual harassment guidelines.
Confidentiality of information relating to investigations of complaints of sexual harassment shall be maintained to the extent practical and appropriate under the circumstances and to the extent permitted by law. Individuals charged with implementing this policy shall share information with regard to given incidents of sexual harassment only with those who have a “need to know” in order to implement this policy.
Investigations must be conducted promptly and thoroughly.
Whether a particular actions constitute sexual harassment will be determined from the facts, on a case-by-case basis. The University will look at the record as a whole, as well as the context in which the alleged misconduct occurred.
Both the charging party and the respondent will be notified of the outcome of the investigation.
In the event it is found that sexual harassment has occurred, corrective action, up to and including discharge or expulsion of the offender, will be taken through the appropriate channels of the university. The corrective action will reflect the severity and persistence of the harassment, as well as the effectiveness of previous remedial action. In addition, the university will make follow-up inquiries to ensure the harassment has not resumed and the complainant has not suffered retaliation. For more information or to make a complaint contact:

IU Bloomington
Office: Office of Affirmative Action
Location: Poplars 825
Phone: 812-855-7559

IU East
Office: Office of Affirmative Action
Location: Whitewater 121
Phone: 765-973-8232

IU Fort Wayne
Office: Office of Equal Opportunity
Location: 980 Indiana Ave, #4443
Phone: 317-274-2306

IU North
Office: Office of Affirmative Action
Location: Raintree Hall, Room 213
Phone: 218-980-6705

IU Indianapolis
Office: Office of Equal Opportunity
Location: 980 Indiana Avenue, #4443
Phone: 317-274-2306

IU South Bend
Office: Office of Affirmative Action
Location: Administration Bldg., #247A
Phone: 574-520-4384

Appendix F: Smoking Policies

State law was enacted on July 1, 2012, which mandates that nearly all public places and places of employment in Indiana — including facilities on university campuses, restaurants, and other workplaces – – be smoke free. This change comes as the result of Indiana’s first statewide smoke-free-air law, House Enrolled Act 1149.

The state law makes smoking in IU facilities or within eight feet of an entrance illegal and a citable offense. As such, the IU Police Department will be involved in efforts to maintain all IU campuses as a smoke-free environment.

IU Bloomington Smoking Policy

As of Spring 2008, the entire IU Bloomington campus is smoke-free.

IU East Smoking Policy

Smoking will not be permitted on any part of the IU East campus, the Danielson Learning Center, and the Connersville Center including buildings, parking lots and patios. Smoking will be impermissible in university owned or leased vehicles being used on or off campus as well as privately owned vehicles on campus.

IU Fort Wayne Smoking Policy

Effective Date: 01.01.2008; updated 01.15/2014

The use or sale of tobacco, tobacco products, and smoking related products is prohibited on Indiana University property.

The use or sale of tobacco, tobacco products, and smoking related products is prohibited in university-owned, university-operated, or university-leased vehicles.

The use of tobacco, tobacco products, and smoking related products is permitted inside privately owned vehicles.

Limited exceptions may be approved in writing by the campus chancellor or provost or relevant vice president and must be in accordance with state law.

In accordance with Indiana state law, signs prohibiting smoking must be posted at all public entrances.

In accordance with Indiana state law, managers or officials in charge of a public building must ask an individual who is smoking in the public building or within 8 feet of the entrance of a public building to refrain from smoking and to cause that individual to be removed if the individual then fails to refrain from smoking.

In accordance with Indiana state law, ashtrays or other smoking receptacles are prohibited in public buildings or at the entrances to public buildings.

IU Indianapolis Smoking Policy

Effective August 14, 2006:

Tobacco use or sale, including, but not limited to smoking, is prohibited on university-owned, -operated, -or leased property.

Exceptions may be granted for specific auxiliary enterprises, as approved by the chancellor.

Tobacco use, including, but not limited to smoking, is not permitted in university-owned, -leased, or – operated vehicles.

Enforcement of this policy will depend upon the cooperation of all faculty, staff, and students not only to comply with this policy, but also to encourage others to comply with the policy, in order to promote a healthy environment in which to work, study, and live.

Violations of this policy should be referred to the appropriate administrative office for review and appropriate administrative action: for faculty, the Office of Academic Policies, Procedures and Documentation; for staff, Human Resources Administration; or for students, the Office of The Dean of Students.

IU Northwest Tobacco-Free Policy

Indiana University has determined that all campuses will be smoke-free in order to promote the health and well-being of employees, students, and constituents. Four of the IU campuses are already smoke-free as well as all medical facilities of the Clarian Health Partners system. Further, several major hospitals and communities in our region have also developed smoke-free policies or are moving in that direction. This campus policy is in response to the University-wide policy requirement as well as the overall desire to provide a healthier work and learning environment for our campus community.

IU South Bend Tobacco-Free Policy

Tobacco use or sale, including, but not limited to smoking, is prohibited on university-owned, -operated, -or leased property.

Exceptions may be granted for specific auxiliary enterprises, as approved by the chancellor.

Tobacco use, including, but not limited to smoking, is not permitted in university-owned, -leased, or – operated vehicles.

Enforcement of this policy will depend upon the cooperation of all faculty, staff, students and visitors not only to comply with this policy, but also to encourage others to comply with the policy, in order to promote a healthy environment in which to work and study.

Violations of this policy should be referred to the appropriate administrative office for review and appropriate administrative action: for faculty, the Office of Academic Affairs; for staff, Human Resources; or for students, the Office of Student Services.

Appendix G: School Records Confidentiality (FERPA)

Indiana University's Annual Notification of Student Rights under FERPA

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

The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the University receives a request for access. A student should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department, or other appropriate official, a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The University official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the University official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.

The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. A student who wishes to ask the University to amend a record should write the University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the University decides not to amend the record as requested, the University will notify the student in writing of the decision and the student’s 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 provide written consent before the University discloses personally identifiable information from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. The University discloses education records without a student’s prior written consent under the FERPA exception for disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or entity with whom the University has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using University employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent; the Indiana University Foundation and Indiana University Alumni Association; and vendors of services such as email or other electronic applications, enrollment verification, and so on); 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 school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for the University. Upon request, the University may disclose education records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. Finally, “public information” may be released freely unless the student files the appropriate form requesting that certain public information not be released. This form is available at the Office of the Registrar. Public information is limited to name; address; e-mail address; phone; major field of study; dates of attendance; admission or enrollment status; campus; school, college, or division; class standing; degrees and awards; activities; sports; and athletic information.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Indiana University 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 20202-5901