Michigan State University (MSU) requires certain health records of all enrolled students. These records are maintained in accordance with the Health Insurance and Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and MSU policies.

Students may be required to submit a physician’s note or other documentation in association with an absence request. Such documentation will be viewable only by those individuals responsible for the absence request review process. Medical documentation submitted by or on behalf of the student regarding exceptional circumstances, such as a leave of absence or review of performance issues, will be maintained in a confidential, secured file.

Health Insurance
MSU veterinary students are required to have health insurance coverage. You will be automatically enrolled in the MSU Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). Students who opt for private health insurance instead of the SHIP must complete a waiver.

Additional information regarding student health insurance may be found here.

Additional Insurance

Dental Insurance
MSU offers student dental insurance through Delta Dental of Michigan. The dental insurance plan is a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plan that offers you an affordable, quality dental plan.

Additional information regarding student health insurance may be found here.

Vision Insurance
MSU offers students comprehensive vision coverage through Vision Service Plan (VSP).

Additional information regarding student health insurance may be found here.

MSU provides professional liability coverage to CVM Graduate Professional (DVM) students for participation in courses in which they are formally enrolled, or for other preapproved college sanctioned activities.

Grading Scale

The grading system for CVM Graduate Professional (DVM) Program is standardized across all courses. If a course moderator chooses to employ an alternate grading scale, the specifics of the grading scale will be in the specific course syllabus.

For conferral of the DVM degree, the student must complete all required program credits with a cumulative GPA of 2.00 or above.

For the classes of 2026, 2027, and 2028, the minimum satisfactory grade is a 1.00 (68.00%) in a course.

For the class of 2029, the minimum satisfactory grade is a 1.50 (72.00%) in a course.

Course Grade in Percent, Course in Grade Point Average

92.00 – 100, 4.00

88.00 – 91.99, 3.50

84.00 – 87.99, 3.00

80.00 – 83.99, 2.50

76.00 – 79.99, 2.00

72.00 – 75.99, 1.50

68.00 – 71.99, 1.00

< 68.00, 0.00

Incomplete Grades

Incomplete Grades (I) may be assigned to preclinical courses when special or unusual circumstances occur.

MSU policy stipulates that an I-grade may be given only when the student: (a) has completed at least 12 weeks of the semester but is unable to complete the class work and/or take the final examination because of illness or other compelling reason; (b) has done satisfactory work (to-date) in the course, and (c) in the instructor's judgment can complete the required work without repeating the course.

If the above conditions are met, the instructor may issue an I-grade and file a Report of Incomplete when course grades are due.

The required work must be completed, and a grade must be reported to the Office of the Registrar no later than the middle of the student’s next semester in attendance (summer session excluded).

Failure to complete the required work by the due date will result in a grade of I/0.0, I/NC, or I/N and is dependent on the grading system under which the student was enrolled. Failure to complete the required work by the due date may result in a review by the Committee on Student Performance.

The College of Veterinary Medicine may submit an extension to complete the required work through an Administrative Action form documenting physician-certified illness or other extraordinary circumstances.

Both the student and the instructor should complete an official I-incomplete form. If multiple courses are affected, each course will need a separate form.

Extension Grades

An Extension (ET-Grade) may be given only when the student (a) has completed at least 12 of the 15 days of the clinical clerkship but is absent three days because of illness or another compelling reason; (b) has done satisfactory work (to-date) in the course, and (c) in the instructor's judgment can complete the required work without repeating the clerkship.

Provided these conditions are met, the clerkship moderator files a Report of an ET grade when clinical clerkship grades are due. This Report specifies what the student must do by a specific date to remove the ET grade. A copy of the report with the student's signatures, clerkship moderator, department chair, and Associate Dean for Academic Programs Clinical Education must be filed in the Office of Academic Programs. A copy will be given to the student.

Failure to complete the required work by the due date will result in a grade of ET/0.0 or ET/N. Failure to complete the necessary work by the due date may result in a review by the Committee on Student Performance.

Conditional Pass

The Conditional Pass (CP) marker is used only for graduate-professional students in the College of Human Medicine and the College of Veterinary Medicine when all of the following criteria are met:

• The student is enrolled in a 500- or 600-level course administered by the college. The University Committee on Curriculum approved using the Pass-No Grade (P-N) grading system for students enrolled in 500- and 600-level courses in the college.
• The student has either:
  • met almost all of the course objectives (criteria for passing) but is deficient in a specific, definable course segment; or
  • completed all of the course requirements but failed to meet the overall pass level by a narrow margin (e.g., received a 68 percent overall score where 70 percent is the pass level).
• The course instructor believes that the student's overall performance has been such that the student should not be required to repeat the entire course. In addition, the character of the deficiency is specific and identifiable and is likely to be remediable within a foreseeable period through specifiable action by the student.

The required work must be completed, and a grade (P or N or numeric) must be reported to the Office of the Registrar no later than the middle of the student's next semester in attendance, if that semester is within one calendar year following the receipt of the CP. An exception may be made if an instructor submits an administrative action form stating that the course structure necessitates delay of remediation grading until the end of the student's next semester in attendance (excluding summer session).

When the specified remediation activity is completed or the time allowed for remediation has expired, the grade of P or N or numeric is assigned. The completion of the remediation activity within the time allowed results in a grade of P or 1.0, and failure to complete the specified remediation activity by the due date results in a grade of N or 0.0

DVM Program Remediation Policy

Preclinical Course Remediation Policy

• Remediation Definition: A process to provide students with academic difficulties a reasonable opportunity to address deficiencies in knowledge or performance associated with a course to achieve a minimal level of competency in a discipline or subject area.
  • Remediation involves three components: identification of deficiencies in performance through an assessment process, opportunity to raise that performance to the intended standard, and reassessment to ensure at least the minimum standard is met in a discipline or subject area.
  • All courses in the preclinical curriculum (semesters one – six) are included in the preclinical course remediation policy.
• Student Responsibility: Students must assume responsibility for a program of independent study to improve their knowledge of the subject to an acceptable level during remediation of a course.
• Faculty Responsibility: Faculty are not required to work directly with students during the remediation period but are encouraged to be available to answer questions. The course moderator and respective course team are required to provide an equal number of remediation examinations or other assessments to the Office of Student Engagement and Success to evaluate student mastery of course objectives. NOTE: Remediation examination(s) or other assessment(s): 1) may not include more than 20% of the same questions as course examination(s) given the same year but 2) must be similarly comprehensive, rigorous, and structured as the original examination(s) or assessment(s).
• Course Remediation Process:
  • A student who fails to achieve a passing grade in a course but meets the criteria for remediation as defined by the CVM academic policy will be allowed to remediate the course.
  • The comprehensive remediation examination or assessment will be administered by the Office of Student Engagement and Success.
    • For semester 1, 2, 3, and 4 courses, the remediation examination(s) or other assessment(s) for all courses being remediated will be scheduled to be completed within five weeks following the official end date of the spring semester.
    • For semester 5 and 6 courses, the remediation examination for one course will be scheduled for three weeks following the end date of the preclinical spring semester and may delay that start of clerkships by 3 weeks. Remediation for a second course would occur 4 to 6 weeks following the end date of the preclinical spring semester and may delay the start of clerkships by 6 weeks.
  • Grades from the remediated comprehensive course examination(s) or assessment(s) will be submitted to the Associate Dean for Student Engagement and Success within five business days of administration of the exam(s) or assessment(s).
  • A student who has a scholastic deficiency in a course in the fall semester may proceed into the spring semester and remediate the course the following summer. A student cannot proceed into the next academic year until all courses of the previous academic year have been successfully completed.
  • A course may only be remediated once.
  • Students must score at least 76% in a remediated course to be considered proficient in the material and be permitted to continue in their current class. Successful remediation (>76%) will result in changing the original grade received to a grade of 2.0, regardless of a student potentially earning 76% or higher. A transcript note will indicate that the grade is due to remediation.
  • Classes that have a significant interactive or practical component that cannot be adequately remediated by independent study will not be available for remediation. Course moderators who believe their course cannot be adequately remediated must provide justification to the College Curriculum Committee and the Associate Dean of Professional Education for approval. Students who do not achieve a passing grade as defined by CVM academic policy in one of these courses will need to recess and repeat the course in the following year.

CVM Academic Policy Approved August 2025 For c/o 2029 Onward

The Michigan State University (MSU) College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) Graduate Professional (DVM) Academic Policy outlines college standards for good academic standing, substandard academic performance, probation, deferred completion of a course, recess, and dismissal in the DVM degree program.

1 General Guidelines, Preclinical and Clinical Phases of the Curriculum

1.1 Requirements for Graduation

A student must be in good academic standing to graduate from the DVM program. Hence, a student must have cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.00 and satisfactory completion of all required preclinical courses, all required clerkships, and all elective clerkships/externships in the DVM degree program to graduate with a DVM.

1.2 Maximum Duration of the DVM Program

The standard duration of the curriculum leading to the DVM degree is four (4) years.

The maximum allowable time to complete the MSU CVM DVM degree program is six (6) years. The maximum allowable time is inclusive of personal or medical leaves of absence, academic recess, and/or other reasons.

Interpretation: DVM course requirements must be completed within a maximum of six (6) years. A student can, at a maximum, be absent from the program for consecutive or non-consecutive period(s) of two (2) years. Any absence exceeding two (2) years will result in dismissal from the program. A student dismissed from the program due to consecutive or non-consecutive absence(s) exceeding two (2) years who wants to return to the program must reapply and enter the program at day one (1) of semester one (1).

1.3 Maximum Duration of the Dual-degree Programs

For students enrolled in a dual DVM/PhD or a dual DVM/MS/MSFA or MPH degree, the standard duration of the curriculum leading to the DVM degree is four (4) years, and the DVM program requirements must be met within a maximum of six (6) years, which may be non-consecutive.

1.4 The Curriculum

The DVM curriculum consists of a total of nine (9) semesters of preclinical and clinical education; five and a half (5.5) preclinical semesters and three and a half (3.5) clinical semesters.

1.5 Preclinical Phase of the Curriculum

The preclinical phase of the DVM curriculum is defined as semesters one (1), two (2), three (3), four (4), five (5) and the first eight (8) weeks of semester six (6).

1.6 Clinical Phase of the Curriculum

The clinical phase of the curriculum is defined as the last nine (9) weeks of semester six (6), semester seven (7), eight (8) and nine (9) (the following Summer, Fall and Spring semesters).

1.7 Good Academic Standing

To be in good academic standing in the DVM program, a student must:

• pass all required preclinical courses with a grade of at least 1.50 (72.00%), and
• pass all required and elective clinical courses with a grade of at least 1.50 (72.00%), and
• maintain a term and cumulative GPA of at least 2.00 in semesters one (1) through nine (9) of the curriculum.

Should the university institute additional or optional grade options due to unforeseen national or global emergencies, the CVM will continue to use only the actual numerical grades when determining good academic standing.

1.8 Substandard Academic Performance

Substandard academic performance is defined as not meeting one (1) or more criteria of good academic standing in any given semester(s). Not meeting one (1) or more of the criteria of good academic standing results in one (1) or more Substandard Academic Performance Events (SAPEs). Substandard Academic Performance Events are cumulative within and/or across semesters one (1) through six (6).

Examples of Substandard Academic Performance Events include:

• Completing a course with < 1.50 (72.00%)
• Cumulative GPA < 2.00 (76.00%), which is calculated prior to the successful remediation of any failed course(s)
• Term GPA < 2.00 (76.00%), which is calculated prior to the successful remediation of any failed course(s)

A student with substandard academic performance is placed on academic probation.

A student must be in good academic standing at the end of the preclinical phase of the DVM curriculum to matriculate to the clinical phase of the curriculum.

Substandard Academic Performance Events are cumulative throughout the preclinical curriculum and are not expunged by any or all of the following:

• remediation or repetition of a course(s), and/or
• raising a term or cumulative GPA to at least 2.00

Substandard Academic Performance Events (SAPEs) will be recorded and maintained by the Committee on Student Performance (CSP).

1.9 Academic Probation

A student who does not meet the criteria for good academic standing is automatically placed on academic probation. A student placed on academic probation for any reason is required to meet with the CVM Committee on Student Performance (CSP). Academic probation places non-academic restrictions on the student, see DVM student handbook.

1.10 Grade Point Average (GPA)

The term and cumulative GPA are calculated using all numerical grades reported to the Registrar’s Office.

1.11 Deferred Completion of a Course(s)

If a student for physical and/or mental health conditions or other exceptional personal circumstances cannot complete a course, the student may seek deferred completion of that course. This option is only available to students who cannot complete a course. For example, a student who tries to complete a course during an extended health crisis but earns < 1.50 (72.00%) in the class, will not be offered this option. Deferred completion of a course entails completion of the entire course within one (1) year of the initial course offering. If a student does not finish the deferred completion of the course within one (1) year of the initial course offering, the student will face dismissal from the DVM degree program. If a student is in a situation in which deferred completion is needed for two (2) or more courses, the student must choose to take a personal or medical leave, an academic recess, or face dismissal from the program.

2 Preclinical Curriculum

2.1 Academic Recess and Dismissal

2.1.1 Academic Recess

To continue in the DVM program, an eligible student must accept the conditions of the academic recess, as outlined below, or face dismissal from the program. The academic recess contract must be approved by the Dean and the Associate Dean of Student Engagement and Success (or equivalent).

2.1.1.1 Semesters one (1) through six (6):

In the preclinical curriculum, a student will recess to the class below if the student:

• has two (2) substandard academic performance events in one (1) academic semester
• does not earn at least a 2.00 (76.00%) in any remediated course(s).

A student may finish the semester in which they have a second SAPE, knowing the academic year will need to be repeated, and they will face dismissal if they receive an additional SAPE during the same semester.

Academic recess incurs additional tuition payments for the student.

2.1.1.2 Academic Recess Requirements

When the student joins the class below by accepting an academic recess:

1. the student must repeat all courses in which the original grade was < 2.00 (76.00%); the original grades are replaced with the grades received after recess upon successful repetition of a course(s).
2. original grades 2.00 (76.00%) and above stand.
3. the student must earn at least a 2.00 (76.00%) in all repeated courses or face dismissal from the program.

2.1.2 Dismissal

2.1.2.1 Semesters one (1) through six (6)

A student will face dismissal from the DVM Program for any of the following reasons if the student:

• has three (3) substandard academic performance events.
• does not successfully complete a repeated course within a one (1)-year time limit.
• does not earn at least a 2.00 (76.00%) in all repeated courses.
• does not successfully complete a course for which deferred completion was granted within a one (1)-year time limit.
• declines an academic recess.

2.2 Remediation and Repetition of Courses

2.2.1 Remediation

• A student who earns < 1.50 (72.00%) in a single course will be offered remediation if it is their first SAPE.
  • The offering of a single remediation spans the entirety of the preclinical curriculum, i.e., semesters one (1) through six (6).
• Students are not guaranteed remediation attempts in any additional/subsequent course in which they earn < 1.50 (72.00%). A remediation attempt in a second course in which the student earned < 1.50 (72.00%) is only permitted if the student has earned at least a 2.00 (76.00%) in all other courses for the academic year, which excludes the initial course in which the student earned < 1.50 (72.00%). Note, earning < 1.50 (72.00%) in two (2) courses in a single semester leads to automatic recess.

2.2.1.1 Remediation Requirements

• A student must earn at least a 2.00 (76.00%) in all remediated courses.
• Remediation of a course cannot be rescheduled/postponed. If remediation cannot be completed when offered, the student must repeat the course when it is offered in the subsequent academic year.
• If a student earns < 1.50 (72.00%) in a course in a semester and accepts a remediation contract, and the student earns < 1.50 (72.00%) in another course in the same semester, the contract from the previous course in which the student earned < 1.50 (72.00%) is automatically cancelled.

Please see the College Curriculum Committee (CCC) Policy on remediation for specific requirements and guidelines regarding remediation practices.

2.2.2 Repetition of a Course

If a student does not remediate a course in which they earned < 1.50 (72.00%), the course must be repeated. The most current grade and credits earned in a repeated course replace the previous grade in the satisfaction of academic requirements and in the computation of the cumulative grade-point average. Both the original course grade and repeated course grade will be present on the student’s transcript.

2.2.2.1 Repetition Requirements

• A student must earn at least a 2.00 (76.00%) in all repeated course or face dismissal from the program.
• Repetition of a course must be completed within one (1) year of the semester that led to the repetition, or the student will face dismissal from the program.

2.3 The Committee on Student Performance (CSP)

A student who has triggered a Substandard Academic Performance Event (SAPE) must meet the CSP within 10 university business days of final course grades being reported. The CSP reviews each student’s case and recommends a course of action to the Dean and the Associate Dean of Student Engagement and Success (or equivalent).

2.4 CSP: Request for Exemption

Students may request the CSP grant an exemption to the recommended course of action based on extraordinary circumstances, including physical and/or mental health, financial, or other exceptional personal circumstances. A student who wishes to request an exemption must submit to the Office of Student Engagement and Success their request in writing, including a detailed explanation of why the exemption is warranted and what specific steps the student has taken or will take to return their performance to acceptable standards.

3 Clinical Phase of the Curriculum

3.1 Matriculation to the Clinical Phase

A student must be in good academic standing to matriculate to the clinical phase of the curriculum. If a student is on probation at the end of the preclinical phase, the student must take necessary action to return to good academic standing before being permitted to matriculate to the clinical phase.

If remediation, repetition or deferred completion is granted within one (1) year prior to the clinical phase, the remediation, repetition or deferred completion must be successfully completed before the student can matriculate to the clinical phase of the curriculum.

3.2 Academic Probation and Dismissal During the Clinical Phase

A student whose academic performance during the clinical phase is substandard will face academic probation and/or dismissal.

3.2.1 Academic Probation

A student who earns < 1.50 (72.00%) or an “F” grade in a clerkship must request a meeting with the clerkship moderator and the Director of Clinical Education (or equivalent) to review what remedial measures may enhance the student’s prospects for successfully repeating the clerkship in which they earned < 1.50 (72.00%) or an “F” grade if that option becomes available.

A student who earns a < 1.50 (72.00%) or an “F” grade in a clerkship, and/or a term GPA < 2.00, must meet with the CSP, who shall review the student’s cumulative record, including the preclinical phase, to formulate a recommendation as to whether the student should be permitted to continue in the program. The CSP seeks to determine whether the poor performance is due to a fundamental shortcoming that cannot likely be overcome, or if there exists a reasonable likelihood that the student would successfully complete the program with additional clinical experience afforded by repeating the clerkship in which the student earned < 1.50 (72.00%) or an “F” grade. The CSP forwards their recommendation to the Associate Dean of Student Engagement and Success (or equivalent) and the Dean for a final decision. The Associate Dean and the Dean shall report their final decision to the CSP.

A decision to permit the student to continue in the program, on academic probation, shall be subject to such remedial conditions as the Associate Dean of Student Engagement and Success (or equivalent) determines are reasonable and appropriate. Academic probation continues until the clerkship in which the student earned < 1.50 (72.00%) or an “F” grade is rescheduled and successfully completed, and the new grade is reported to the Office of Student Engagement and Success.

3.2.2 Dismissal

Any clerkship in which a student earns < 1.50 (72.00%) or an “F” grade must be successfully repeated before a student can be eligible for the DVM degree. If the CSP recommends dismissal, and the Dean concurs with dismissal, the student must request in writing to meet with the Associate Dean to receive input regarding the recommended dismissal action. The Associate Dean and the Dean’s decision shall be conveyed in writing.

Dismissal from the DVM program for substandard academic performance shall result when a student has received < 1.50 (72.00%) or an “F” grade in any two (2) clerkships or twice earns a term GPA < 2.00. In such instances, dismissal occurs without review. All students retain the right to contest academic decisions as provided by established procedures as described in the MSU Medical Student Rights and Responsibilities (MSRR) document.

3.3 Substandard Grade(s) in a Clerkship

Students in good academic standing that earn a 1.50 in one (1) or more clerkships must meet with the Director of Clinical Education (or equivalent).

CVM Academic Policy for DVM Classes of 2026, 2027, and 2028

The Michigan State University (MSU) College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) Academic Policy outlines college standards for good academic standing, substandard academic performance, probation, deferred completion of a course, recess, extended curriculum, and dismissal in the CVM Graduate Professional (DVM) program.

General Guidelines, Preclinical and Clinical Phases of the Curriculum

Requirements for Graduation

A student must be in good academic standing to graduate. Hence, a student must have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.00 and satisfactory completion of all required preclinical courses, all required clerkships, and all elective clerkships/externships in the DVM degree program to graduate with a DVM.

Maximum Duration of the DVM Program

The standard duration of the curriculum leading to the DVM degree is four (4) years. The maximum allowable time to complete the College’s DVM degree is six (6) years. The maximum allowable time is inclusive of personal or medical leaves of absence, academic recess, extended curriculum, and/or other reasons.

Interpretation: DVM course requirements must be completed within a maximum of six (6) years. A student can, at a maximum, be absent from the program for a consecutive or non-consecutive period(s) of two (2) years. Any absence exceeding two (2) years will result in dismissal from the program. A student dismissed from the program due to consecutive or non-consecutive absence(s), which exceeds two years, who wants to return to the program must reapply and enter the program on day one (1) of semester one (1).

Maximum Duration of the Dual-degree Programs

For students enrolled in a dual DVM/PhD or a dual DVM/MS/MSFA or MPH degree, the standard duration of the curriculum leading to the DVM degree is four (4) years, and the DVM program requirements must be met within a maximum of six (6) years, which may be non-consecutive.

The Curriculum

The professional (DVM) curriculum consists of a total of nine (9) semesters of preclinical and clinical education; five and a half (5.5) preclinical semesters and three and a half (3.5) clinical semesters.

Preclinical Phase of the Curriculum

The preclinical phase of the DVM curriculum is defined as semesters one (1), two (2), three (3), four (4), five (5), and the first eight (8) weeks of semester six (6).

Clinical Phase of the Curriculum

The clinical phase of the curriculum is defined as the last nine (9) weeks of semester six (6), semester seven (7), eight (8), and nine (9) (the following Summer, Fall, and Spring semesters).

Good Academic Standing

To be in good academic standing in the DVM program, a student must:

1. Pass all required preclinical courses with a grade of ≥ 1.00, and
2. Pass all required and elective clinical courses with a grade of ≥ 1.00 or Pass (P), and
3. Maintain a term and cumulative GPA of ≥ 1.75 in semesters one (1) of the curriculum, and maintain a term and cumulative GPA of ≥ 2.00 in semesters two (2) through nine (9) of the curriculum

Should the university institute additional or optional grade options due to unforeseen national or global emergencies, the CVM will continue to use only the actual numerical grades to determine good academic standing.

Substandard Academic Performance

Substandard academic performance is defined as not meeting one (1) or more criteria of good academic standing in any given semester(s). Not completing one (1) or more of the criteria of Good Academic Standing result in one (1) or more Substandard Academic Performance Events. Substandard performance events are cumulative within and/or across semesters.

A student with substandard academic performance is placed on academic probation.

A student must be in good academic standing at the end of the preclinical phase of the DVM program to progress into the clinical phase of the curriculum.

Events of substandard academic performance are cumulative throughout the preclinical curriculum and are not expunged by any or all of the following:

• remediation or repetition of a course(s), or
• raising a term or cumulative GPA above 2.00

Events of substandard academic performance will be recorded and maintained by the Committee on Student Performance (CSP).

After a substandard academic performance event is corrected, a student is taken off academic probation.

A student must be in good academic standing to graduate from the program.

Academic Probation

A student who does not meet the criteria for good academic standing is automatically placed on academic probation. A student placed on academic probation for any reason is required to interview with the CVM CSP within one (1) week following the semester in which the substandard academic performance(s) occurred (see below). Academic probation also places certain non-academic restrictions on the student. For example, the student cannot hold any class leadership roles or work for the College (see student handbook).

Grade Point Average (GPA)

The term and/or cumulative GPA is calculated at the completion of each semester using all numerical grades reported to the Registrar’s Office. If the student fails one (1) or more classes during a semester, the final term and cumulative GPA used to determine a student’s academic standing will be calculated based on the grade(s) obtained after successful remediation of the failed course(s), i.e., a grade of 2.00 (see remediation).

Deferred Completion of a Course(s)

If a student for physical and/or mental health conditions or other exceptional personal circumstances cannot complete a course or clinical rotation, the student may seek deferred completion of that course. This option is only available to students who cannot complete a course. For example, a student who tries to complete a course during an extended health crisis, but fails the class, will not be offered this option if the student fails the class. Deferred completion of a course entails completing the entire course within one (1) year of the initial course offering. If a student does not finish the deferred completion of the course within one (1) year of the initial course offering, the student will be subject to dismissal from the DVM program. If a student is in a situation where deferred completion is needed for two (2) or more courses, the student must choose to recess or accept an extended curriculum as described below or be dismissed from the program.

Preclinical Curriculum

Recess, Extended Curriculum, and Dismissal

Recess and Extended Curriculum

Semester one (1)

In semester one (1) of the preclinical curriculum, a student must recess to the class below or agree to an extended curriculum if the student:

• Fails three (3) or more classes and/or
• Has a calculated term GPA < 1.75 even if all remediations were successful, i.e., all 0.00 grades replaced with 2.00 in the student’s semester one (1) grades, and/or
• Has two (2) courses or more courses in which deferred completion is necessary and/or
• Fails to score at least 76% in any remediated or repeated course(s).

Because remediation may not be completed until after semester two (2), if the student has a semester or cumulative GPA ≥ 2.00 after semester 2, the student must still repeat semester one (1).

Recess and Extended Curriculum (See also ‘CSP - Request for Exemption’)

Semesters two (2) through six (6)

In the preclinical curriculum, a student will recess to the class below or agree to an extended curriculum if the student:

• Has two (2) substandard academic performance events in one (1) semester or in consecutive or non-consecutive semesters, or
• Fails to score at least 76% in any remediated or repeated course(s).

If a student meets the criteria for recess or extended curriculum listed above before the end of a semester, the CSP will meet as soon as possible with the student and explain the options of recess or extended curriculum to the student.

Interpretations: of events leading to recess or extended curriculum

Semesters two (2) through six (6)

• Failing two (2) preclinical courses, or
• Failing one (1) preclinical course and one (1) semester with term and/or cumulative GPA < 2.00 after remediation, or
• Two (2) semesters with a term and/or cumulative GPA < 2.00 after remediation

A student may finish the semester in which they have the second event of substandard academic performance, knowing the semester will need to be repeated and the failing grades remediated and grades < 2.00 have to be repeated, and they may be dismissed if they receive an additional event of substandard academic performance during the same semester.

The recess and extended curriculum options incur additional tuition payments for the student.

Semester one (1)

(see above)

Academic Recess Option

If a student chooses the recess option, the student must agree to an academic recess contract and join the next class or be subject to dismissal from the DVM program. The academic recess contract carries stipulations about the repetition of professional courses. The academic recess contract must be approved by the Dean and the Associate Dean for Academic Programs, Preclinical or Clinical.

When the student joins the class below by choosing the recess option:

• the student must repeat all previously failed courses leading to Academic Recess.
• The student must repeat all courses in which the original grade was < 2.00; the original grades are replaced with those received after recess upon successfully repeating a course(s).
• Original grades 2.00 and above stand.
• The student must earn at least a 2.00 in all repeated courses or face dismissal from the program.

Academic Extended Curriculum Option

If a student chooses the extended curriculum option, the student must agree to an extended curriculum contract in which the student takes courses originally scheduled for one (1) academic year over a two (2)-year period or be subject to dismissal from the program. The academic extended curriculum contract must be approved by the Dean and the Associate Dean for Academic Programs, Preclinical or Clinical. The academic extended curriculum contract carries stipulations about the repetition of professional courses. Not all students may be eligible for the extended curriculum option.

When the student joins the class below by choosing the extended-curriculum option:

• The student must repeat all previously failed courses leading to an extended academic curriculum.
• All courses in which the original grade was below 2.00 must be repeated during the second year of the extended curriculum. The original grades are replaced.
• Original grades 2.00 and above stand.
• Students must earn at least a 2.00 in each repeated course or face dismissal from the program.

The option of an extended curriculum can be offered only once to a student. During the extended curriculum, if a student has two (2) preclinical semesters with substandard academic performance or fails two (2) or more courses during any semester, the student will be dismissed automatically from the DVM program. Students dismissed after the academic extended curriculum program cannot be readmitted to the CVM professional program.

Dismissal

Semester one (1)

In semester one (1) of the preclinical curriculum, a student will be dismissed from the DVM program if the student:

• Fails four (4) or more classes and/or
• Has a term GPA < 1.50 even if all remediations were successful, i.e., all 0.00 grades replaced with 2.00 in the student's semester one (1) grades.

Semesters two (2) through six (6)

A student will be dismissed from the DVM Program if the student:

• Has three (3) substandard academic performance events in one consecutive or non-consecutive preclinical semesters two (2) through six (6), or
• Receives a total of three (3) failing grades (0.00) in one (1) semester, or
• Fails to successfully remediate or repeat a 0.00 grade within a one (1)-year time limit, or
• Fails to successfully complete a course for which deferred completion was granted within a one (1)-year time limit, or
• Declines a recess or extended curriculum contract.

If remediation, repetition, or deferred completion is granted within one (1) year before the clinical phase, the remediation, repetition, or deferred completion must be successfully completed before the student can enter the clinical phase of the curriculum.

Interpretation of possible combinations of three substandard academic performance events leading to dismissal curriculum (preclinical and clinical):

Semesters two (2) through six (6)

1. Failing three (3) consecutive or non-consecutive preclinical courses.
2. Failing two (2) preclinical courses and has one (1) semester with term and/or cumulative GPA < 2.00 after remediation.
3. Failing one (1) preclinical course and two (2) semesters with term and/or cumulative GPA < 2.00 after remediation
4. Have three (3) semesters with a term and/or cumulative GPA < 2.00 after remediation.

Remediation and Repetition of Courses

Requirements for remediation and repetition of courses.

• A student must earn a 2.00 in all remediated and/or repeated course(s) or face dismissal from the program.
• Remediation and/or repetition of a course must be completed within one (1) year of the semester that led to remediation and/or repetition of a course or face dismissal from the program.
• If a student is remediating more than one (1) course and fails the first scheduled remediation, subsequent remediation contracts are automatically canceled, and the student must accept a recess or extended curriculum contract or be subject to dismissal from the program.
• If a student fails a course in a semester, accepts a remediation contract, and fails another course in a consecutive semester, the contract from the previous semester is automatically canceled if it has not been completed.

Remediation or repetition of a course must be completed within one (1) year of the occurrence of the original course offering.

If a student receives a failing grade (0.00) in any course, the course must be remediated. Remediation of a course may be offered to a student who earns a 0.00 grade in one (1) or more course(s) under the above rules. Remediation involves a program of supplemental study designed to permit a student to improve their knowledge to an acceptable level and continue with their current class. The course moderator may agree to offer remediation, and the remediation contract must be approved by the Associate Dean for Academic Programs, Preclinical or Clinical. The contract must be signed before the initiation of remediation. A course team is not required to provide remediation for a course. Hence there is no entitlement to remediation. Even when the CSP recommends remediation, remediation is not guaranteed.

During remediation, students must assume responsibility for a guided program of self-study to improve their knowledge of the subject to an acceptable level. Students must score at least 76% in a remediated course to be considered proficient in the material and be permitted to continue in their current class. Successful remediation (≥76%) will change the 0.00 grade to a grade of 2.00, regardless of a student potentially earning 80% or higher. In all cases, students' ability to continue with their current class depends on successful remediation.

If remediation is not offered for a course in which a student has a failing grade, the student must recess to the class below. All failing and remediated course grades remain a part of the student's permanent academic record.

Repetition of a Course

If a student does not remediate a course in which the student earned a failing grade (0.00), the course must be repeated. The most current grade and credits earned in a repeated course replace the previous grade in satisfying academic requirements and computation of the cumulative grade-point average. All failing grades and repeated course grades remain a part of the student's permanent academic record.

The Committee on Student Performance (CSP)

A student who will or is likely to be placed on Academic Probation must meet the CSP as soon as possible after the student fails the class. The CSP reviews each student’s case and recommends a course of action to the Dean and the Associate Dean for Academic Programs, Preclinical or the Associate Dean, Clinical.

CSP - Request for Exemption

Students may request the CSP grant an exemption to the recommended course of action based on extraordinary circumstances, including physical and/or mental health, financial, or other exceptional personal circumstances. Students who request an exception must submit their request to the Academic Dean’s Office in writing, including a detailed explanation of why the exception is warranted and what specific steps the student has taken or will take to return their performance to acceptable standards.

Clinical Phase of the Curriculum

Matriculation to the Clinical Phase of the CVM Curriculum

A student must be in good academic standing to matriculate to the clinical phase of the curriculum. If a student is on probation at the end of the preclinical phase, the student must take necessary action to return to good academic standing before being permitted to matriculate to the clinical phase.

Academic Dismissal and Probation During the Clinical Phase

A student whose academic performance during the clinical phase is unacceptable faces probation or dismissal.

Probation

A student who fails (0.00 grade or F) a clerkship or earns a term GPA < 2.00 must request a meeting with the clerkship moderator and the Associate Dean for Academic Programs to review what remedial measures may enhance the student’s prospects for successfully repeating the failed clerkship if that option becomes available.

A student who earns a 0.00 or F (no) grade or a term grade point average (GPA) < 2.00, must meet with the Committee on Student Performance (CSP), which shall review the student’s cumulative record, including the preclinical phase, to formulate a recommendation as to whether the student should be permitted to continue in the program. The CSP seeks to determine whether the poor performance is due to a fundamental shortcoming that cannot likely be overcome or if there exists a reasonable likelihood that the student would successfully complete the program with additional clinical experience afforded by repeating the failed clerkship. The CSP forwards its recommendation to the Associate Dean for Academic Programs for a final decision. The Associate Dean shall report their final decision to CSP.

A decision to permit the student to continue in the program on academic probation shall be subject to such remedial conditions as the Associate Dean for Academic Programs, Clinical determines are reasonable and appropriate. Academic probation continues until the failed clerkship is rescheduled and successfully completed, and the new grade is reported to the Academic Programs Office.

Dismissal

Any failed clerkship must be successfully repeated before a student can qualify for the DVM degree. If the CSP recommends dismissal, and the Associate Dean concurs with dismissal, the student must request in writing to meet with the Associate Dean to receive input regarding the recommended dismissal action. The Associate Dean’s decision shall be conveyed in writing.

Dismissal from the professional program for substandard academic performance shall result when a student has received 0.00 or F grades in two (2) clerkships or twice earns a term GPA < 2.00. In such instances, dismissal occurs without review. All students retain the right to contest academic decisions as provided by established procedures as described in the MSU Medical Student Rights and Responsibilities document.

Substandard Grade(s) in a Professional Course

Students in good academic standing that earn one (1) or more grades above a 0.00 but below 2.0 must meet with the Associate Dean for Academic Programs Clinical Education.

Preclinical Phase DVM Program Examination Policy Final Updated July 2025

Preclinical Phase DVM Program Attendance and Absence Policy

Clinical Phase DVM Program Attendance And Absence Policy

The College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is sensitive to the bereavement process of a student who has lost a family member or is experiencing emotional distress from a similar tragedy. It is the responsibility of the student to notify the Office of Student Engagement and Success (SES) of the need for a grief absence. If requested, the student may need to provide appropriate verification of the grief absence to the SES.

The Office of Student Engagement and Success designate is responsible for discussing the expected period of absence with the student. It is understood and expected that some bereavement processes may be more extensive than others depending on individual circumstances. It is the responsibility of SES to notify the faculty that the student will be absent and the expected date of return. The Office of Student Engagement and Success, in concert with the course moderator, develops a plan to complete all missed coursework. In the clinical, the student may need to complete the clerkship.

If Michigan State University (MSU) has suspended operations due to an emergency, including weather, only essential MSU employees must report to work. Preclinical and clinical veterinary students are excused from the classroom, laboratory, and clinical responsibilities.

Students should make every reasonable effort to get to and remain on campus for their regularly scheduled commitments during challenging winter weather conditions.

History and Evolution

Students and faculty of the college developed The Honor System for the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM), which was approved and implemented in 1985. This document is now recognized as a formal program within the CVM.

The Michigan State University Medical Student's Rights and Responsibilities (MSRR) document established that medical students have certain rights and responsibilities and affirmed that they are a party to the social trust shared by all in the university community. The participating colleges subject to MSRR include the College of Human Medicine, the College of Osteopathic Medicine, and the College of Veterinary Medicine.

No honor system has ever been established and successful without the cooperation of the administration, faculty, and students. By definition, an honor system requires that everyone is willing to accept responsibility for the system and to work to ensure honesty in all aspects of the academic experience. It is expected that each student will give this program careful consideration and support for its continued success. If each individual adheres to the Principles of Professional Behavior and follows the Code of Conduct, the judicial portion of the honor system need only act as a reminder that each individual is responsible for their own behavior.

Veterinary students are accorded the same privileges as all citizens and acknowledge that special personal demands are posed on them, because the consequences of their behavior may affect the safety and welfare of animals entrusted to their care. In addition, veterinary students acknowledge that the duties of respect, courtesy, and assistance are basic to all relationships between and among colleagues. With this in mind, professional veterinary students recognize and accept professional work collegiality and that they are colleagues of their fellow student(s) and a junior colleague of the professionals comprising the animal health care team.

Where disputes or complaints arise regarding the rights and responsibilities of veterinary students, all parties must follow the appropriate procedures outlined in the college bylaws and the MSRR.

We, the faculty and students of the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, establish this honor system to promote fellowship, mutual respect, and good will among all members of our academic community. As members and future members of the veterinary profession, we assume a responsibility for self-governance.

The honor system promotes honorable behavior among veterinary professionals. It encompasses and unifies the conditions and concepts of the following documents:

College of Veterinary Medicine:

• The Creed of Honor
• The Code of Conduct
• Principles of Professional Behavior: Guidelines for Veterinary Students

Michigan State University

• Medical Students Rights and Responsibilities (MSRR)

Preamble

To promote and maintain appropriate professional behavior and to assure that the veterinary medical services provided by students, under the supervision of faculty, meet a high standard of care that reflects values consistent with the ideals of the veterinary medical profession, the CVM, and the laws of the State of Michigan. Faculty and students of the CVM affirm the following principles of professional behavior.

Judgments regarding professional behavior contain a fundamental element of subjectivity. A code of professional behavior cannot encompass all potential issues of conduct that may arise—making it impossible to specify in detail, before the fact, all and only those behaviors that may be called into judgment as unprofessional. Further, all codes of conduct are dynamic entities, subject to growth, revision, and modification over time. The principles of professional behavior do not specify behaviors but are guidelines that provide direction in identifying appropriate conduct. Please refer to the CVM Code of Conduct for a listing of specific behaviors that represent professional misconduct.

However, basic tenets give shape and meaning to the profession and professional work concepts. The principles endorsed here provide guidelines for judging whether appropriate values regarding work and relationships with others are embodied in the behaviors of an individual who seeks to be a veterinarian.

Further, the ethical standards of the profession, incorporated in documents such as the Principles of Veterinary Medical Ethics of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the Veterinarian's Oath, and the Code of Conduct of the CVM are acknowledged as applicable to the behavior of veterinary students.

In pursuit of these ideals, veterinary students subscribe to the following principles:

Principle I: Safety and Welfare of the Patient

The safety and welfare of the patient and its owner(s) are the primary concerns of the veterinary student. They require that the student do that which, in the professional judgment of the student and supervisor, benefits the patient.

Principle II: Competence

Achievement of excellence is the goal of the veterinary student, while competence is the minimum essential for performance. Veterinary student knows the limits of their knowledge and skills and must restrict their activities accordingly.

Principle III: Responsibility

The veterinary student accepts responsibility for the consequences of their actions. In utilizing their knowledge and skills to benefit clients, patients, and colleagues, students must communicate openly and honestly with clients, faculty, staff, and student colleagues.

Principle IV: Professional Relationships

Collegiality is a tenet of all professional relationships, and the veterinary student is encouraged to communicate professionally.

Principle V: Confidential Relationships

Participation in patient care binds the student to a confidential relationship with clients and other care providers. As a care provider, the student learns private and personal information from the client. To reveal such information, except when necessary for the patient's care, violates trust.

Principle VI: Learning and Research Activity

The veterinary student acknowledges that lifelong learning is essential to developing and maintaining professional skills and judgment. This learning may encompass the critical assessment of the intellectual effort of others and/or the conscientious production of new scientific knowledge. Professional students accept the responsibility of continuing this learning process throughout their veterinary career.

The Creed of Honor is established to emphasize that the profession of veterinary medicine conveys something more than a means of livelihood. The creed should not be construed as an instrument of persecution; rather, it affirms that students in the professional degree program of the CVM are a party to society's trust in the veterinary profession to preserve and advance scholarship and to govern itself with integrity. As a veterinary student, I recognize my obligations to:

• Conduct myself courteously, sincerely, and unselfishly to develop a relationship of mutual respect among students, faculty, staff, and community members.
• Develop a feeling of goodwill and fellowship among the student body whereby my fellows are regarded as colleagues, not competitors.
• Let my demeanor be pleasant and submit my judgment with modesty.
• Speak no ill of those who are absent.
• Blame no person who has done their best nor criticized them in public; in reproving, show no signs of anger, but do it with understanding.
• Be attentive when another speaks and cause no disturbance to the audience or interrupt a speaker.
• Lead by example.
• Conduct myself in all situations in a manner whereby no adverse reflections will be cast upon my fellow students, school, or profession.
• Report to the CVM Committee on Honor Code and MSRR Hearings, in the prescribed manner, any violation or suspected violation of the Code of Conduct.
• Neither receives nor gives aid in an examination except as expressly permitted by the instructor.
• Perform no acts that are contrary to existing professional regulations.
• Assume the obligations specified or implied by the College of Veterinary Medicine Code of Conduct.

This Code of Conduct is presented to graduate professional students because they will one day become members of the veterinary profession, which has imposed standards of professional behavior and conduct designed to protect the public from fraudulent practice.

The Code of Conduct intends to identify specific acts or behaviors deemed unprofessional for students in the CVM Graduate Professional (DVM) program. This list has been derived from the experiences of faculty, staff, and students of the CVM and is not intended to abridge, supersede, or modify any other university document.

Examples of unprofessional conduct include, but are not limited to:

• Falsification, fraudulent use, or misuse of clinical records, health certifications, vaccination certificates, prescriptions, or other blank forms used in veterinary medicine.
• Abuse, neglect, or improper care of any animal.
• Conviction in a court of competent jurisdiction on any charge involving moral turpitude.
• Intoxication by alcohol or other mood-altering drugs or compounds in or on the buildings and grounds of the College of Veterinary Medicine.
• Falsification, fraudulent use, or misuse of application materials or forms used by the CVM for admissions, performance evaluation, or conduct evaluation.
• Giving or receiving aid on an examination, except as specifically permitted by the instructor.
• Plagiarism.
• Verbal or physical abuse of faculty, staff, clients, or students.
• Disruption of the class by loud, obnoxious, or disrespectful behavior.
• Removal of any exam from the examination room without the professor's consent.
• Violation of the university rules and regulations.

A student accused of one or more of these (or other) forms of misconduct will be required to appear before the CVM Committee on Honor Code and Medical Student Rights and Responsibilities (MSRR) Hearings. It is the student's responsibility to understand this code. Ignorance of its content will not be accepted as an excuse or an adequate defense for any infraction. Violations of this code may result in discipline up to and including dismissal from the CVM program.

Academic honesty and integrity are fundamental values in a community of scholars, and the standards of the Veterinary Profession bind you to honesty and integrity in all of your actions. As stated in Michigan State University Students Rights and Responsibilities, students and faculty share a commitment to and responsibility for "maintaining the integrity of scholarship, grades, and professional standards." A detailed discussion of the University standards for Academic Honesty and Integrity of scholarships and Grades is found on the Office of the University Ombudsman website here. The website is the primary source for standards, guidelines, and processes. As medical students, additional information is found under the Medical Students Rights and Responsibilities (MSRR) here.

Students often commit academic dishonesty because they do not view the action as dishonest. The following are examples of academic dishonesty.

• Students should not give or accept aid from any unauthorized source during an examination or in preparation for an examination. Students who have completed an examination should not discuss the exam or any aspect of the exam until all students have finished the examination. This includes but is not limited to length, difficulty, or material covered or not covered. The use of old exams shall be permitted only when the instructor administering the exam is approved.
• Students should not misrepresent their work fraudulently, plagiarize, or be a party to another student’s failure to maintain academic integrity. Each student is responsible for the content of the work they submit for academic credit, including papers, examinations, laboratory reports, homework assignments, or online quizzes.
• Unless expressly stated by the instructor, using course materials to complete an un-proctored online assessment is NOT permitted.
• Students cannot reproduce any assessment (quiz, examination, or assignment). Reproduction includes photos of posted answer keys and grades or screenshots of online assessments.

The above is not an exhaustive list. The student must understand the scope of Academic Honesty and Integrity of Scholarship and Grades. The CVM Committee on Honor Code and MSRR adjudicate allegations of academic dishonesty.

See the Drug and Alcohol Policy Statement webpage here.

Read the full dress code policy here.

No student may post, release, or otherwise disclose photos, identifiable case descriptions, images, or records related to the educational, clinical, or research activities of the college via social networking sites (e.g. Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, etc.), non-educational blogs, message boards, internet websites, or personal email. Only standard professional means of query and dissemination are permitted.

Students are responsible for knowing and abiding by the Social Media Policy for the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine.

Michigan State University (MSU) offers students and graduate assistants comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans for themselves and eligible dependents. Visiting scholars may be eligible to enroll in the student health plan.

MSU Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) and Graduate Assistant Health Insurance Plan (GAHIP) are administered by Academic HealthPlans (AHP) with Aetna providing the health insurance coverage. MSU’s Olin Health Center offers care to students, Graduate Assistants and visiting scholars.

Graduate Assistants, medical, veterinary medicine, and international students are automatically enrolled in health insurance. Graduate Assistants, medical, veterinary medicine and a limited number of eligible international students who can demonstrate another form of US-based health insurance coverage that meets the applicable waiver criteria, may apply for a waiver. Waivers are required each semester.

To enhance student learning and safety during the clinical phase of their education, CVM has a set policy that the total hours worked on clinical clerkship is limited to 60 hours per week.

• The total daily hours are limited to 10 hours per day for five days.
• The remaining hours may be accounted for by weekend ongoing patient management responsibilities or coverage of “on-call duty.”
• If a student works more than 16 hours in 24 hours, the student must be given at least a 10-hour rest before the next shift assignment. The 24-hour period begins at 8:00 AM and ends at 8:00 AM on consecutive days.
• Based on a daily limit of 10 hours per day, a student is to be assigned two 30-minute rest break periods.

Students will be encouraged to log their hours during a clerkship. Faculty are directed to check in with students regarding their duty hours to help manage a student’s time and the learning objectives of the clerkship.

Michigan State University (MSU) Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) students are required to have current vaccinations for the following:

• Rabies
• Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap)

MSU DVM students are required to have current test(s) for the following:

• Tuberculosis (TB)

Students are responsible for arranging and covering the cost of all required vaccines and tests. We encourage you to check with your health insurance provider to determine whether your plan covers these services. The MSU Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) does cover the cost of required vaccines and testing; however, coverage does not begin until August of each academic year.

Any injuries incurred during lectures and/or lab assignments must be reported immediately to the instructor in charge. Injuries incurred on clinical clerkship in the Veterinary Medical Center must be reported immediately to the clinician and clinical technician of the service. An Injury/Property Damage Report must be completed by an MSU Employee and submitted to the MSU CVM Office of Student Engagement and Succes (SES).

The MSU Injury/Property Damage Report form must be completed if an injury occurs on an externship or practice-based ambulatory clerkship. The form is submitted to SES. The student is to complete the form, and the mentor will serve as a witness.

Student injuries are NOT covered by the university’s workman’s compensation policies. Students who need medical care are expected to use their own health insurance and are responsible for the associated expenses. Medical services are available through MSU Student Health, local urgent care facilities, and local hospitals.

Students who are planning to get pregnant, or know they are pregnant, during their training in the College of Veterinary Medicine are responsible for the following:

• Schedule an appointment with your physician. Your physician will need to understand the DVM curriculum to help you judge its physical demands and potential risks to the pregnancy. Do not assume that your physician understands your potential risks. Explain your laboratory courses and/or clerkships. Your physician should know specifics about your responsibilities, time commitment, and possible exposure to biological agents, inhalation anesthetic agents, and/or chemicals
• Ask your physician for advice about preventive measures and risk reduction to ensure your health and prevent any injury during pregnancy. The Physician Checklist for Pregnancy will facilitate the discussion. Notify the Office of Student Engagement and Success of your pregnancy and request a meeting to discuss available options and select and implement the proper course of action.
• Notify the Office of Student Engagement and Success of your pregnancy and request a meeting to discuss available options and select and implement the proper course of action.

Potential Options to Consider

• Continue in the professional program with minor class or clinical rotation schedule adjustments. With this option, you declare that you are fully aware of potential risks and willing to proceed.
• Request a leave from the DVM Program. A pregnant student may consider a leave depending on their personal situation, their decisions regarding their pregnancy, and their ability to continue in the program. The request must be submitted in writing and include supporting documentation. Documentation must be from an official source (e.g., your primary physician) that provides direct care. Students granted a leave are permitted to return to the program to resume their education through a written request to the Office of Student Engagement and Success. Reinstatement may require the approval of the individual’s physician.

Rights and Responsibilities

See the full Pregnancy, Childbirth and Pregnancy-Related Conditions for Students and Employees Policy on the Office for Civil Rights and Title IX Education and Compliance (OCR) here.

Veterinary students have an increased risk of contracting zoonotic infectious diseases due to regular and close contact with animals and their blood, feces, and urine. The risk of contracting a zoonotic infectious disease is greatly increased when the student is immune-compromised. A student may be immune-compromised due to pregnancy, disease, or medical therapy that depresses normal immune function. The student’s responsibility is to self-report the immune compromise and documentation of the health concern that results in the immune-compromised state. Documentation must be received from the student’s attending physician.

If the immune-compromised state is due to an infectious agent that is transmissible to humans, it is the student’s responsibility to protect their classmates, faculty and staff, and clients and patients from exposure. The student must practice excellent personal hygiene and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize the risk of exposure to zoonotic infectious agents. An appropriate plan to prevent zoonotic infection must be developed in consultation with the student's attending physician.

The immune-compromised student is responsible for informing the course moderator of each clinical rotation and class/laboratory that involves animal handling or exposure to infectious agents. The prevention plan developed with their physician must be promptly shared with the clinical clerkship or class moderator so that implications for participation in the rotation or class and any special or additional protective measures are discussed.

Due to the academic rigor and time-intensive nature of the Michigan State University Veterinary Medicine Program, students are strongly discouraged from working while enrolled in the program. Those students who choose to work while in school are expected to attend scheduled classes and fulfill all stated program criteria. A student who decides to work may not miss, be tardy or reschedule classes, labs, exams, special assignments, community service work, or clinical rotations. The student may not switch classes, labs, special assignments, community service work, or clinical rotations. Performance and attendance policies are to be upheld as stated in this handbook. Academic standards must be maintained, and no make-up classes, labs, or exams will be offered. If a student’s academic or clinical performance deteriorates or falls below the program's minimum acceptable standards, it is grounds for referral to the Student Performance Committee and may lead to dismissal from the program.

The Medical Students Rights and Responsibilities (MSRR) document addresses academic rights and responsibilities, governance, procedures for complaints, due process, and other topics.

Student Conduct at Michigan State University (MSU) is managed through the Office of Student Support and Accountability. Complaints can be filed by any MSU student, faculty, or staff member. The Office of the University Ombudsperson is a confidential resource for any student going through this process. Though they do not serve as advocates for students through this process, their job is to advocate for fairness and due process. Students, instructors, or other community members are encouraged to contact the office to understand MSU's policies and procedures.

For more information, please visit their website or call their office at 517-353-8830.

The College Medical Student Hearing Board (CMSHB) is the College judicial body authorized to adjudicate cases involving medical student rights and responsibilities, including both complaints and grievances. The CMSHB will be constituted before April 1 of each year, and service begins on the first day of the full summer semester. The board will include four faculty and four medical students selected from a larger pool. The student pool comprises 12 students chosen by the Class Presidents (four from the second, third, and fourth-year classes). From the pool of 12 students, three will serve as regular board members, and one will serve as an alternate. The Dean's Office randomly selects individual students on the board, one student per class plus an alternate. Alternates attend all hearing meetings but do not contribute to deliberations, nor vote unless called to replace a voting member who cannot complete service for a specific hearing. If there is a conflict of interest for a student member, they will be replaced by a member of the original pool.

The humane treatment of animals is fundamental to the veterinary profession. Some have questioned the use of live animals for instruction, and issues of animal use, animal welfare, and animal rights have received much attention. Animal use can become highly emotionally charged, resulting in misunderstanding, frustration, anger, and even violence and death. Michigan State University has experienced terrorist activity in the interest of animal rights, as have other institutions throughout the United States. As professionals, we must be aware of all these crucial issues; students, in particular, are responsible for becoming well-informed on this subject.

Several years ago, an ad hoc Committee was appointed within the College to review the use of animals in teaching specifically. The Committee provided the following conclusions and recommendations for the students, faculty, and staff of the College:

• The primary responsibility of the College of Veterinary Medicine is to provide students with a core of veterinary knowledge essential to enter veterinary practice, including diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical skills.
• All faculty, students, and staff must exercise judicious, humane, and respectful use of animals in the smallest number, consistent with meeting the course's and curriculum's goals and objectives.
• Faculty members are encouraged to use alternatives whenever alternative learning does not compromise the quality of the educational experience.
• All College of Veterinary Medicine courses in which live animals are used must submit an Animal Care and Use form. This form lists the techniques and procedures that will be performed on the animals. The University’s Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) review the Animal Care and Use Form (AUF) and serve as an advocate for the animals. Memberships of the committee include scientists, veterinarians, and local community representation. IACUC must approve the techniques and procedures that will be performed on the animals. The techniques and procedures will not be performed if the committee does not approve.
• The Animal Care and Use Committee must also approve all procedures performed on cadavers. The cadavers are treated with respect and care as in the “live state.”

As veterinary professional students, completing the online IACUC Tutorial training is recommended. The link is https://animalcare.msu.edu/training/index.html. The tutorial link is listed and will direct you to your MSU NetID login. Once you have logged into the system, you will be directed to the tutorial program.

If you have concerns or problems with the care or procedures of animals in the pre-clinical instruction, you are encouraged to discuss your concerns with the moderator of the course. If you are uncomfortable doing so, you may contact the IACUC. The telephone number is 517-432-8103, and the email is iacuc@msu.edu. You may also contact the University’s attending veterinarian at 517-432-4242 or University Laboratory Animal Resources (ULAR) at 517-353-5064. For after-hours, weekends, and holidays, contact the MSU Police at 517-355-2222.

The IACUC will review such concerns as required by law and promptly investigate any report submitted to the committee. Every attempt will be made to maintain confidentiality regarding the source of the report it receives. No individual shall be discriminated against or be subject to any reprisal for reporting their concerns as prescribed under the USDA's Animal Welfare Regulations, Subchapter A, Part A, Part 2.

The Veterinary Medical Center (VMC) is committed to providing the highest quality of care for our patients and respect for our clients. If you become aware of a situation that you believe puts the health or well-being of clients/owners or their animals at risk, please take immediate action and inform the Director of the Veterinary Medical Center or the Associate Dean of Academic Programs and Student Success. Examples of behavior and activities of a veterinarian, resident, intern, veterinary technician, classmate, or veterinary technician student that are of concern include:

• Making serious or repeated mistakes in diagnosing or treating a patient’s condition.
• Not examining patients properly or responding to owners' reasonable animal treatment requests.
• Misusing information about patients.
• Violating client confidentiality.
• Treating patients without the owner’s consent
• Behaving dishonestly in financial matters or dealing with clients, patients, or research.
• Misusing hospital resources for personal or client needs.
• Making improper advances or comments to clients.
• Misusing alcohol or drugs.

Purpose

This policy outlines the responsibility of hospital personnel to report suspected animal abuse and neglect to county resources for the prevention of animal cruelty.

Background

Abuse means an act, omission, or neglect that causes or unreasonably permits unnecessary or unjustifiable pain, suffering, or death to animals.

Neglect is a flexible concept embracing matters such as failure to provide food, water, protection from the elements, or veterinary and/or other care generally considered to be normal, usual, and accepted for an animal’s health and well-being consistent with the species, breed, condition, use, and type of animal.

Pain is the experience of stress from injury, disease, or neglect and suffering is the condition of enduring pain or distress.

Our underlying responsibility as veterinary professionals is to protect animal welfare. In addition, it is recognized that there is a link between animal cruelty and family violence. As a result, the hospital has developed a policy covering clinicians’ responsibilities when animal abuse is suspected. Clinicians are not asked to be judges or juries sentencing clients to penalties for animal cruelty.

Policy

It shall be Hospital policy that veterinarians and support staff who, in the context of a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, suspect animal abuse and/or neglect consult with their Section Chief or Service Head when the suspicion arises to determine whether communication to the appropriate humane agencies is warranted. The Chief of Staff should be notified if a Section Chief or Service Head is not on the premises. Documented consultations should occur when clinicians are on duty with other clinicians of equal status. Clinicians on duty alone may call humane agencies without consultations based on their judgment.

Often a determination of suspected animal abuse or neglect is an educated guess and may be based on a pattern of activity over time involving specific clients. Furthermore, the law does not require absolute assurance of abuse to provoke a report to authorities, merely suspicions. It is essential to understand that MSU Veterinary Medical Center and its personnel have no legal jurisdiction to intervene on behalf of an animal’s welfare. That role is the responsibility of the animal control officers, who have the police power to investigate reports of alleged animal abuse and take custody of such animals during the investigations and/or after they have made determinations of abuse or neglect. Signs suggestive of abuse and/or neglect include:

• Lameness or other injuries without histories supporting the severity of the clinical signs, injuries to pets where owners describe ongoing toilet training as “accidents.”
• Multiple bite wounds in patients with numerous scars around the head and legs from previous injuries.
• Severely matted hair where the animal’s condition is not consistent with its pleasant disposition and/or temperament.
• Emaciation.
• Chronic, infected, untreated wounds are often present in pets where grooming has been neglected (larvae may or may not be present).
• Chains and collars that have cut through the skin and into the neck's musculature are often related to rapidly growing medium to large-breed dogs with inadequate owner attention.
• Aggressive, defensive, or other abnormal animal behavior with the caveat that reports shall be made only in situations where other evidence of abuse is also present.
• Unexplained chemical or thermal skin burns.

Abuse or neglect can occur in the form of a) passive cruelty (acts of omission), b) active cruelty (acts of commission), and/or c) apparent use of animals in staged fights. Because reporting suspected staged animal fighting produces concerns for staff security, a hospital policy on that issue is not addressed in this statement. Instead, clinicians are advised to report their suspicions to the Director’s office on the next business day to enable personnel to pursue further investigations through local police and/or humane organizations.

Clinicians should document information regarding suspected abuse or neglect using histories, photographs, examination notes, and all other avenues in gathering information. Clinicians are asked NOT to inform clients that they are reporting the suspected abuse or neglect to local animal control agencies. If animal control officers instruct clinicians to detain animals until they can investigate, they must notify clients of such action. When owners request that animals be discharged before animal control officers have time to investigate, such animals should be released, and animal control officers will be expected to pursue home investigations. When concerns about owner violence exist, campus police should be present during an animal control officer–owner–clinician interaction.

The University will provide legal support to any veterinarian and/or staff person who reports suspected animal abuse and/or neglect to proper authorities based on well-documented histories, thorough physical examinations, and supportive diagnostic workups.

Please get in touch with the sheriff of the county where the client resides.

Personal pets cannot walk or run free off-leash/lead on MSU property.

Personal pets brought to the Veterinary Medical Center (VMC) for medical care, participation in clinical trials, or donating blood will be housed in cages/stalls in a Hospital Ward.

Proper medical records and patient identification are required on the cage/stall. Outpatients may be housed in the wards throughout the day of their appointments.

Patients of the VMC always have priority for access to and use of VMC facilities. If there are occasions when there is cage space available in the wards, the VMC business office may consider housing personal pets on a day-by-day basis. Appropriate daily fees will be assessed. Runs are not available for the boarding of personal pets. The animal owner is responsible and obliged to make appropriate arrangements for the care of the boarding animal, except for cleaning the cage. The veterinary students, technicians, and animal caretakers assigned to the ward will NOT care for personal pets that are boarding.

Personal pets brought to the VMC for CVM faculty-sponsored events, such as teaching demonstrations, will be housed in cages/stalls in the wards or cages/stalls. They are not to be kept in personal offices or other areas of the VMC. Proper identification will be on the animal and the cage/stall. The VMC Business Office has a form to be filled out for these special circumstances; students using a personal pet for a CVM-sponsored teaching demo should see the VMC Director for that form.

Storage, handling, preparation, and consumption of food and drink in research and teaching laboratories, in live animal handling and housing areas, and in areas where animal specimens are handled or processed is prohibited by:

• Environmental Health and Safety
• United States Department of Agriculture
• United States Department of Health and Human Services
• American Animal Hospital Association
• American Veterinary Medical Association Educational Accreditation
• American Association for Laboratory Animal Care

Violations of the policy may result in monetary fines and loss or reduction of accreditation status.

Storage, handling, and consumption of food or drink in areas where animals or animal specimens are handled present a risk of transmission of infectious organisms to people. Therefore, CVM policy is that food and beverages should not be consumed in areas where animals are housed or treated (Veterinary Medical Center wards and Junior Surgery Lab) or where animal specimens are handled (such as the anatomy, histology, and clinical pathology laboratories).

• Hand washing is expected after handling animals or animal specimens. Hand washing before reaching for your food or drink is essential to minimize your risk of disease or illness.
• Food and beverages shall only be consumed in specifically designated areas. Designated areas are posted.
  • Employee break rooms
  • Cafeteria (A-213)
  • Consultation/communication/conference rooms
  • Employee Commons at the Veterinary Diagnostic Lab (VDL)
  • Faculty offices
  • Reading Room
  • Rounds rooms
  • Student Center
  • Technician offices

Effective March 1, 2013, food and drink in tightly sealed containers are allowed in the G-150 auditorium. Damage done to the carpet or cleaning charges that result from accidental spills will be charged to the appropriate class, club, or unit.

Food and beverages for human consumption will be stored only in refrigerators labeled for that purpose. Animal specimens must not be stored with food or drink for human consumption.

Animals are NOT PERMITTED in designated eating areas.

The MSU Travel Clinic supports our student’s and faculty's international educational experiences by promoting safe and healthy travel. The Travel Clinic provides MSU students with a comprehensive and cost-effective way to receive travel counseling and appropriate vaccinations and medications.

Students who travel internationally as part of their education must follow the current CDC requirements for the country of travel they will embark upon. Students need to either consult the MSU Travel clinic or a personal provider for evaluation and provide documentation of compliance with CDC recommendations for international travel.

To read the full Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), visit the Michigan State University FERPA webpage here.

Student Privacy Rights

Visit the Registrar's Office webpage here to read more on student privacy rights.

What does it mean to you as a student?

MSU complies fully with FERPA, which governs access to, and confidentiality of student records. To comply with this act, the University has developed detailed Guidelines Governing the Privacy and Release of Student Records, available here.

As a student, you have a right to expect that information in your educational records (including computerized records) will be kept confidential and disclosed only with your permission or as allowed by law. When you reach the age of 18 or begin attending a post-secondary institution, regardless of age, FERPA rights transfer to you--the student. Limiting your educational record information that may be released to third parties without your written permission unless it is “directory information.” Third-party individuals include your parents, spouses, significant others, and children.

To meet FERPA guidelines, all academic performance assessment results must be confidential. Information sharing about academic status is NOT permitted with anyone other than the student. The student's signed consent must be provided before release to a third party.

FERPA identifies a category of information as “directory information,” which institutions may usually release without student permission. Directory information includes the student’s name, address, telephone numbers, current enrollment status or dates of attendance and program level, class level, and major.

If you wish to restrict the release of any or all “directory information,” you must complete a Directory Restriction Request. The online form is found under Information for students here.

“The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) has several required components that have been enacted in stages since 1996. The latest provision of HIPAA implemented by MSU Human Resources involves ensuring the privacy and security of a person's Protected Health Information (PHI). While MSU Human Resources has always treated health information with the utmost care, HIPAA requires that we issue notification of MSU's compliance with HIPAA privacy rules.

MSU Human Resources uses PHI to determine your benefits eligibility and for the general administration of your health and dental benefits. MSU Human Resources is committed to using the utmost care in handling this information to ensure its privacy and security.

Please read MSU's Commitment to HIPAA Compliance and the Privacy Notice, which explain how MSU Human Resources and MSU use and protect PHI. We urge you to read this information carefully and contact MSU Human Resources if you have any questions.

MSU's Commitment to HIPAA Compliance

HIPAA Privacy Notice

Michigan State University has long had the policy to permit students to observe those holidays set aside by their chosen religious faith. It is the responsibility of those students who wish to be absent to make arrangements in advance with their instructors. It is the responsibility of the course instructor to determine how missed assessments or in-class student responsibilities are completed. Please be aware that the original format may not be used to assess the content material.

Storage, handling, preparation, and consumption of food and drink in research and teaching laboratories, in live animal handling and housing areas, and in areas where animal specimens are handled or processed is prohibited by Environmental Health and Safety, United States Department of Agriculture, and the American Association for Laboratory Animal Care. Violations of the policy may result in monetary fines and loss or reduction of accreditation status.

Section 23 of the Board of Trustees Ordinances summarizes the policy regarding animals in MSU-owned buildings and other properties. See the full policy here.

• No person owning or being responsible for an animal brought upon property governed by the Board shall do so without securing the animal by appropriate use of a leash.
• No person shall bring any animal into any University building.
• No person shall bring any animal onto a University bus.
• No person shall bring any animal into any University area, such as the Beal Botanical Garden or the Horticulture Gardens, posted to prohibit the presence of animals.
• Exceptions to the above provisions shall include:
  • Service Animals assist individuals with disabilities.
  • Animals brought to the Veterinary Medical facilities for treatment or University sponsored research.
  • Animals being transported and remain inside a vehicle.
  • Animals brought to animal-related University sponsored events.
  • Animals brought to animal-related events sponsored by registered student organizations that have received prior authorization from the Office of the Secretary of the Board of Trustees.
  • Animals subject to the control of any police officer during the course of the police officer's duties.