At Collins University, we are committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive educational environment for all students. As part of our dedication to upholding our community values and ensuring the well-being of our students, we have established a Criminal Conviction Policy. This policy outlines our approach to handling situations where a student has a criminal conviction.
Disclosure of Criminal Convictions: a. Upon application: All prospective students are required to disclose any past criminal convictions during the application process. This includes felony or misdemeanor convictions, regardless of the nature of the offense. b. Current students: If a student is convicted of a crime while enrolled at Collins University, they are expected to promptly disclose the conviction to the appropriate university authority, such as the Dean of Students or the Registrar’s Office.
Review Process: a. Confidentiality: All information provided by students regarding criminal convictions will be treated with utmost confidentiality. Access to this information will be restricted to authorized university personnel who require it for legitimate purposes related to student safety and welfare. b. Individualized Assessment: Each reported criminal conviction will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the specific circumstances of the offense, the student’s conduct since the conviction, and any relevant supporting documentation provided by the student. c. Fairness and Due Process: The review process will ensure that students are given an opportunity to present their case and provide any necessary additional information. The university will conduct a fair and impartial assessment while adhering to the principles of due process.
Potential Actions: a. Impact on Admission: The disclosure of a criminal conviction during the application process does not automatically disqualify an applicant from admission. The university will consider the nature and severity of the offense, the time elapsed since the conviction, and any rehabilitation efforts undertaken by the applicant. b. Current Students: If a current student discloses a criminal conviction, the university will assess the situation to determine the potential impact on the student’s academic standing and continued enrollment. Depending on the circumstances, appropriate measures may be taken, such as counseling, probation, or other interventions designed to ensure the safety and well-being of the campus community. c. Mitigating Factors: In certain cases, the university may consider relevant mitigating factors, such as successful completion of rehabilitation programs, evidence of personal growth and change, and positive contributions to the community, when determining appropriate actions.
Support and Resources: a. Rehabilitation Support: Collins University recognizes that individuals with criminal convictions may need support and resources to reintegrate into the community. The university will strive to provide guidance, counseling, and access to appropriate resources to help students navigate any challenges they may face as a result of their convictions. b. Student Well-being: The well-being of all students is of utmost importance. If a student’s criminal conviction poses a potential risk to the safety or welfare of others within the university community, appropriate measures may be taken to ensure the security and well-being of all students, staff, and faculty.
Please note that the information provided in this policy is subject to change, and the university reserves the right to update or modify the policy at any time. Students are encouraged to review the most current version of the policy on the Collins University website or consult with the appropriate university authority for any specific inquiries.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Criminal Conviction Policy, please contact the Dean of Students or the Registrar’s Office for further guidance and assistance.
Anastesia Belousova LLB (Hons)
University Law Department
Collins University