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1. NSU, although a secular institution, values diversity of its student body, including diversity in religious expression. NSU recognizes that the religious diversity of its students may result in potential conflicts between work-restricted religious high holidays and educational activities such as classes or scheduled examinations. NSU seeks to accommodate students with personal religious beliefs who wish to observe work-restricted religious holidays. The following provisions apply to all faiths and religious groups equally.

2. This policy applies to all NSU students.

3. Students will not be penalized for approved class absences due to work-restricted religious holidays. This policy does not apply to required attendance in the clinical care setting.

4. NSU has developed an interfaith calendar which includes the recognized work-restricted religious holidays which have been approved by NSU. The calendar is published annually at least one (1) month prior to the start of the Fall semester. Approved absence requests for additional work-restricted religious holidays that are not included on the NSU interfaith calendar should be directed to the NSU Dean of Students, at (954) 262-7281, who will evaluate the request, determine whether such religious accommodation will be approved, and notify the student and college/program of the outcome.

5. A student with a personal religious belief, requesting to be excused from class or an educational activity for a work-restricted religious holiday, shall notify the NSU Dean of Students or (954) 262-7281 within three (3) calendar days after the start of the semester. NSU may request documentation or information from the student’s religious institution in order to establish a legitimate need for accommodation. Absences for travel associated with religious observances are not deemed approved absences for purposes of this policy. A student’s absence request for a work-restricted religious holiday will not be approved if the student fails to provide requisite notice for their absence request and/or provide requisite documentation. The failure to obtain approval for an absence may result in a penalty from the college or program.

6. With appropriate advance notice and approval, accommodations will be provided. The type of accommodation provided is within the discretion of the program, and may vary by course or program depending on the nature and type of educational activity in conflict. An absence for the observance of a work restricted religious holiday does not relieve students from responsibility for any part of the course work required during the period of the absence, and missed work remains the student’s responsibility to complete. It may not be possible to make up certain academic experiences, including but not limited to, experiential group activities, as well as, laboratory and clinical activities. Approved absences may extend program length or require repetition of a course.

7. It may not be possible to miss extensive periods of a scheduled academic class or experience (e.g. labs, residential institutes) due to the format of the program (e.g. weekend). Students should check the academic calendar prior to enrollment to determine whether they can meet the obligations of the program.

8. If a student’s request is approved and they believe their respective college or program is not complying with this policy, and/or if a student has any questions about this policy, please contact the NSU Dean of Students, at (954) 262-7281.