Complaint Procedures in Cases of Alleged Unlawful Discrimination or Harassment

University Policy

School of Medicine Policy

Equal Opportunity Policy

Boston University prohibits discrimination against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental handicap, marital, parental, or veteran status. This policy extends to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities, including admissions, financial assistance, employment, housing, athletics, and educational programs. Boston University recognizes that nondiscrimination does not ensure that equal opportunity is a reality. Because of this, the University will continue to implement affirmative action initiatives that promote equal opportunity for all students, applicants, and employees. Inquiries regarding the application of this policy should be addressed to the Director, Office of Equal Opportunity, 25 Buick Street, Boston, MA 02215, 617-353-4475.

Grievance and Arbitration Procedures under Title IX

Undergraduate students who believe they have been discriminated against because of their race, color, creed, religion, ethnic origin, sex, age, or physical disability may file in writing a formal grievance with the Dean of Students. Graduate students file formal grievance directly with the dean of their school or college. The written statement should be as specific as possible regarding the action that precipitated the grievance: date, place, and people involved; efforts made to settle the matter informally; the remedy sought.

Within one week of receiving the statement, the Dean of Students forwards a copy to the appropriate person. If the complaint raises an academic question, the statement is forwarded to the dean of the school or college involved; if a nonacademic unit is concerned, the statement is forwarded to the administrative head of that unit. Individuals whose actions or inactions are the subject of the grievance receive a copy from their dean or administrative head and have an opportunity to respond in writing.

The dean or administrative head will try to meet with all concerned parties within two weeks of receiving the statement. He or she may receive both oral and written presentations and may make independent inquiry.

Within one week after such a meeting, the dean or administrative head makes a decision as to the merits of the statement and appropriate resolution of the grievance. Copies of this decision are sent to the student, the individuals whose actions are the subject of the grievance, the Dean of Students, and the Provost. If dissatisfied with the decision, the student may appeal to the Dean of Students, and from there to the Provost.

A record of all formal grievances is kept in the Office of the Dean of Students, East Tower of the George Sherman Union, 775 Commonwealth Avenue. Copies of all written statements, letters, etc., relating to a grievance should be sent to that office.