Religious Accommodation Policy and Resources

At Pardee School of Global Studies, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are valued and respected. One crucial aspect of this commitment is accommodating our students’ observance of holidays, both legally and ethically.

We adhere to Boston University’s policy which ensures that students are permitted to be absent from class for religious observance purposes. This includes classes involving examinations, labs, excursions, and other special events. In-class, take-home assignments, lab work, and other coursework missed due to religious observance will be made up in consultation with the student’s instructors. We affirm that all religious traditions are subject to this accommodation.

In practice, there are numerous ways we strive to accommodate our students. This may involve facilitating access to class materials, such as lecture slides or recorded lectures, arranging for students to obtain notes from classmates, or scheduling individual meetings during office hours. We understand the importance of flexibility in accommodating students’ needs and are dedicated to ensuring their academic success.

Furthermore, we recognize the significance of religious literacy in creating an inclusive community. To support this goal, Boston University Marsh Chapel maintains a  list of religious holidays.

Student Support and Well-being

Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground

Worship and Meditation Opportunities

Well-Being Resources

Newbury Center for First-Generation Students

Diversity and Inclusion

Boston University Diversity and Inclusion

Center for Antiracist Research

Disability and Access

Gender-Affirming Healthcare

Ellie Wiesel Center for Jewish Studies

LGBTQIA+ Student Resource Center

Student-Run Center for Gender, Sexuality, and Activism at BU

BU Queer Activist Collective

Conflict Resolution and Mediation

Office of the Ombuds

Educational Toolkits

Disability and Ableism 

Fundamental Concepts

Implicit Bias and Microaggressions

Race, Racism and Anti-Racism

White Supremacist Culture

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

EEO Office

Additional Academic Contacts

CAS Associate Dean for Diversity and Inclusion, Vincent Stephens
Associate Provost for Community and Inclusion, Victoria Sahani