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Carnegie Mellon Department of Chemistry

Guide to Graduate Studies

Getting Oriented

Important University and College Policies

University Policies

A University Policy is a rule that has been officially sanctioned by the president of Carnegie Mellon University and senior university leadership, and that generally has university-wide applicability. Graduate students need to be aware of the policies listed below and to become familiar with the related expectations and options provided under these policies.

Carnegie Mellon University Student Leave Policy – relevant especially if you have medical or personal concerns that may cause you to consider a semester or more on leave of absence

Carnegie Mellon University Policy on Cheating and Plagiarism – important for TA responsibilities; of course, you are also expected to conduct your own academic work and research with high standards of integrity.

Carnegie Mellon University Academic Disciplinary Actions Overview for Graduate Students – describes general procedures for breaches of academic integrity including cheating and plagiarism

Carnegie Mellon University Computing Policy – note that penalties related to inappropriate downloading include possibly losing internet access for a period of time.

Carnegie Mellon University Student Health Insurance Policy – note that you are personally responsible for maintaining health insurance and paying the related costs each year; otherwise, you may not be eligible to register, which in turn means you cannot receive a stipend.

Carnegie Mellon University Policy Against Sexual Harassment – online training about sexual harassment prevention is required both to help you as a student and as a teaching assistant; you will be contacted by the Graduate Program Coordinator with instructions regarding online training.

Carnegie Mellon University Doctoral Candidate Policies for All But Dissertation (ABD) – this policy becomes important for students after completing the original proposal requirement (3rd year) to reach All But Dissertation status.

Mellon College of Science Policies Related to Graduate Students

MCS Doctoral Degree Policies – includes important information about visiting members of dissertation committees

MCS Grievance Procedure for Graduate Students – consult Rea Freeland as ombudsperson as early as possible if you think you may have a concern that could possibly lead to a formal grievance.