Student Complaint Resolution

Notre Dame of Maryland University participates in Federal student aid programs that are authorized under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Title 34 CFR §600.9 requires states to have a “process to review and appropriately act on complaints concerning the institution including enforcing applicable State laws.”

Title 34 CFR §668.43(b) requires that institutions, “make available for review to any enrolled or prospective student upon request, a copy of the documents describing the institution’s accreditation and its State, Federal, or tribal approval or licensing. The institution must also provide its students or prospective students with contact information for filing complaints with its accreditor and with its State approval or licensing entity and any other relevant State official or agency that would appropriately handle a student’s complaint.”

To comply with this regulation, NDMU makes every effort to resolve student complaints internally, using policies and procedures outlined in several publications such as the University Catalogs and in the Student Handbook. Students are expected to familiarize themselves and fully utilize any and all administrative policies, procedures and/or resources provided by NDMU.

Guiding Principles 

• NDMU promotes a campus community that is grounded on several values including integrity, respect, and civility. 
• NDMU strives to provide students a positive academic experience by creating a collegial environment in which questions/concerns may be resolved internally in a fair and timely manner. 
• If a question or concern arises, students are encouraged to first seek resolution by scheduling a meeting (preferably face-to-face) with the faculty, staff, administrator, office or designated point of contact involved. 
• If a question or concern is not satisfactorily resolved with the faculty, staff, administrator, office or designated point of contact involved, students are then encouraged to schedule a meeting with the next level supervisor or dean. 
• In rare instances when a matter continues to go unresolved, and all earlier attempts to find a resolution have been exhausted, the next level supervisor or appropriate senior level administrator who provides broad oversight to the individual/office involved may be contacted for assistance. View a full directory of offices and individuals.  

Student Policies & Procedures

In the event that it is unclear whom to contact to seek resolution, students may consult with the Associate Vice President for Student Life. 

Academics and Student Life

• Policy on Student Concerns About Athletic Programs and Activities (PDF)
• Student Conduct and Academic Appeal Process and Procedures
• Undergraduate Grade and Academic Dismissal Appeals
• Graduate Grade Appeals
• Disability Services
• Counseling Services

Financial Aid Appeals

• Financial Aid Appeals
• Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress Appeals Policy 

Human Relations

• University Non-Discrimination Policy and Grievance Procedures (PDF)
• Title IX – Sexual Misconduct Policy and Procedures
• Disability Support Services Complaint Procedures
  • Student Behavioral Support Referrals

Administration

• Sage Dining Services
• Information Technology
• Parking (Public Safety)
• Facilities Maintenance (PDF) (Residence Life)

In the unlikely event that an issue cannot be resolved by NDMU, students may file a complaint with the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) which is the State Licensing Authority in Maryland.