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Graduate Student Handbook The Graduate Student Handbook is produced by the Office of Graduate Affairs to serve as a resource for graduate students throughout their KAUST experience. The Handbook is intended to complement other publications of the University and to assist students as they navigate the University and the KAUST community; information and policies contained in the Graduate Student Handbook do not supersede other KAUST policies and procedures. For the most up‐to‐date version of the Graduate Student Handbook, please refer to the KAUST website. The contents of the Graduate Student Handbook are not static; rather, they are living documents that will continually be revised and edited to better meet the emerging needs of KAUST graduate students. As KAUST grows and evolves, there will be additions and changes to the content of the Handbook. Please refer suggestions for future additions to the Graduate Student Handbook to the Office of Graduate Affairs. KAUST reserves the right to make changes to policies and procedures at any time and will announce changes broadly. In the event of an emergency, dial 911 from a KAUST campus phone or (02)‐808‐‐0911 KAUST ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2010–2011 Fall Semester August 28, 2010 First day of classes September 3, 2010 Last day to add a class September 10 2010 Last day to drop a class without a W grade September 11‐15, 2010 Eid Al‐Fitr – no classes September 18, 2010 Classes resume September 22, 2010 National Day Holiday November 3, 2010 Last day to drop a class with a W grade. No drops permitted after this date November 13 – 17, 2010 Eid Al Adha Holiday November 20, 2010 Classes resume December 8, 2010 Classes end December 12 – 15, 2010 Final exam period December 15, 2010 Fall semester ends December 16, 2010 Commencement December 18, 2010 – January 12, 2011 Mid‐Year Break – no classes Winter Enrichment Period January 15 2011 Winter Enrichment Period Begins January 30, 2011 Winter Enrichment Period Ends Spring Semester February 5, 2011 First Day of Classes February 11 2011 Last day to add a class February 18, 2011 Last day to drop a class without a W grade March 30, 2011 Last day to drop a class with a W grade. No drops permitted after this date April 2‐6, 2011 Spring Break – no classes April 9, 2011 Classes resume May 11, 2011 Classes end May 14 – 18, 2011 Final exam period May 18, 2011 Spring semester ends Summer Session June 11, 2011 First day of Summer Session August 3, 2011 Summer Session ends Student Handbook Page 2 Table of Contents Section 1: Introduction to KAUST Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs' Welcome Overview of KAUST Vision, Mission and Values Section 2: Academic Overview Academic Calendar Degree Programs The Office of the Registrar Student Identification Cards Registration Procedures Registration for Continuing Students Late Registration Approval for Special Circumstances Academic and Research Advisers Student‐Adviser Relationship Change of Adviser Grade Point Average (GPA) Requirements Adding a Course Dropping a Course Applying for Graduation Leave of Absence Grading System Calculation of the GPA Incomplete Grades Grade Appeals Satisfactory Academic Progress Academic Sanctions Students' Permanent Records Academic Transcripts Falsification of Records by Students Policy on Release of Student Records Graduation Commencement Ceremonies Withdrawal from the University Section 3: Graduate Student Life Students as Community Members Campus and Community: Facilities and Services Safety and Security Fire Alarms Student Handbook Page 3 Community Services KAUST Medical Center KAUST Schools Libraries Transportation Mail and Courier Services Restaurants and Food Services Museum of Science and Technology in Islam The Student Center Offices of Development and Support and Campus Life Graduate Skills Lab Graduate Residence Life Graduate Involvement and Recreation Professional Development Health, Wellness and Counseling Professional Development Recreation Services Harbor Sports Club Beaches Safaa Golf Club Self‐Directed Groups Theater and Cinema Outdoor Recreation Marina Al‐Marsa Yacht Club Stadium Water Sports Center Programs Section 4: Policies Student Code of Conduct Housing Policies Fire and Life Safety Inspections Check‐in Process Checkout Process Room Entry/Room Search Pets on Campus Harassment Policy Equal Opportunity in Employment and Education Policy Section 5: Graduate Student Resources Offices and Resources Frequently Contacted by Graduate Students Dining and Retail Phone Numbers Telephone Information (calling mobiles and landlines) General Information Regarding Travel Student Handbook Page 4 Welcome As we embark on KAUST's second academic year, I offer a heartfelt welcome to our incoming and to our continuing students. I wish you every success in your studies, whether ongoing or just beginning. May you enjoy your time at KAUST and take every opportunity to avail yourself of our interdisciplinary academic culture and the rich multi‐cultural environment that makes up our community. The KAUST Student Handbook is published by the Office of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs. The Handbook summarizes policies and procedures concerning students and also provides useful information about the campus and community. Incoming and continuing students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the policies and procedures outlined in the Handbook. These policies and procedures may change from time to time and students are encouraged to consult pertinent university websites to confirm the most up‐to‐date policy. This Handbook integrates contributions made by several members of the KAUST academic community, most notably Dr. Faizi Ghodsi, Dr. Najah Ashry, and Dr. Virginia Unkefer. I thank them and others for their contributions. I hope that the Handbook becomes a useful resource to KAUST Faculty, Students, and Staff. Dr. Brian Moran Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs Section 1 – Introduction to KAUST Overview of KAUST King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is an international, graduate‐level research university dedicated to inspiring a new age of scientific achievement in the Kingdom. KAUST is the realization of a decades‐long vision of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. KAUST is: - supported by a multi‐billion dollar endowment - governed by an independent, self‐perpetuating Board of Trustees - merit‐based and open to men and women from around the world Student Handbook Page 5 Unlike any other university, KAUST is designed to allow physical and human networks, operating largely without regard for organizational or national boundaries, to flourish, thereby creating a vehicle for the exchange of ideas and the development of new knowledge. The University's academic structure organizes interdisciplinary teams around research themes that apply science and technology to problems of human need, social advancement, and economic development. Students at KAUST pursue graduate degrees that span the fundamental and applied sciences. Blending the educational process with the pursuit of strategic research advances, KAUST students and researchers seek to transform existing industries and spawn new ones. The University campus reflects this open academic philosophy and builds collegial relationships that encourage innovation and invention. Students and faculty work with, and have access to, our Global Collaborative Research partners on special research projects at KAUST. Vision KAUST will be a globally renowned graduate research university that makes significant contributions to scientific and technological advancement, and it will play a crucial role in the development of Saudi Arabia and the world. By 2020, KAUST will be characterized by: 1. Cutting‐edge, basic and goal‐oriented research in science and technology comparable to that of the world's top 10 science and technology universities, the success of which will be demonstrated by: • publications in Science, Nature, and other prestigious professional journals; • a significant number of scientific discoveries and technological innovations; • a high average citation index (ISI) among KAUST faculty. • 2. A focus on research and academic activities in areas where KAUST can be exceptional by global standards. The focus will be on impact rather than quantity, and KAUST will have Research Centers that are recognized as world leaders in their fields. 3. Graduates who are highly trained and skilled and who will have the capabilities and drive to be leaders in education and business. 4. Research and commercialization activities that demonstrably contribute to the diversification and strengthening of the Saudi economy, as measured by job creation, new industry development and growth in GDP per capita. 5. A diversified and sustainable revenue base that supports both its operating and capital requirements. Student Handbook Page 6 Mission KAUST advances science and technology through bold and collaborative research. It educates scientific and technological leaders, catalyzes the diversification of the Saudi economy and addresses challenges of regional and global significance, thereby serving the Kingdom, the region and the world. Research and education, as well as their transformative potential, are central to KAUST's mission. KAUST has a three‐part mission: 1) Research at KAUST – both basic and goal‐oriented – is dedicated to advancing science and technology of regional and global impact. Research excellence inspires teaching and the training of future leaders in science and technology. 2) Research and education at KAUST energize innovation and enterprise to support knowledge‐based economic diversification. 3) Through the synergy of science and technology, and innovation and enterprise, KAUST is a catalyst for transforming people's lives. Values Members of the University community are committed to the values of achievement, passion, inspiration, diversity, openness, integrity and citizenship. At all times, KAUST community members are expected to uphold these values, both as individuals and as representatives of the University. Achievement: Determination to advance science and engineering for the welfare of all mankind. Passion: Pursuit of the KAUST mission with enthusiasm and confidence and seeking individuals who share that passion. Inspiration: Commitment to stimulate inspiration and celebrate those with the ability to inspire others. Diversity: Collaboration among scientists, researchers, and students from different disciplines, nationalities, and cultural backgrounds. Openness: Commitment to openness, which allows students and faculty to think clearly, study freely, and examine complex problems though the clear light of reason. Integrity: Commitment to uphold the highest standards of moral, ethical, and professional conduct. Citizenship: Being a good neighbor and striving to make a positive impact on the University's surroundings. Section 2 – Academic Overview Academic Calendar For purposes of classroom instruction, the Academic Calendar consists of two semesters, a Winter Enrichment Period, and a Summer session. Student Handbook Page 7 I. Fall semester extends from late August/early September (unless it is an official university holiday) through the second or third week of December. Graduation exercises will take place on December 16, 2010. II. The Winter Enrichment Period, extending from mid to late January, consists of special short courses offered by Visiting Faculty, workshops, symposia, and other scholarly activities. III. Spring semester extends from early February through mid May. Summer sessions of different lengths consist of intensive courses and extend from mid June to early August. All dates are approximate and are adjusted annually to begin and end on appropriate weekdays. Each semester may include scheduled holidays. Graduation exercises are scheduled in December and/or June as determined by University leadership. Degree Programs KAUST degree programs and course offerings are competitive internationally to ensure that its programs are accepted by, and its credits interchangeable with, the degree programs at other universities around the world. KAUST offers masters and doctoral courses in each of the University's eleven fields of study: Applied Mathematics and Computational Science (AMCS) Bioscience (B) Chemical and Biological Engineering (CBE) Chemical Science (ChemS) Computer Science (CS) Earth Science and Engineering (ErSE) Electrical Engineering (EE) Environmental Science and Engineering (EnSE) Marine Science (MarS) Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) Mechanical Engineering (ME) Each program is administered by a Graduate Committee and a Graduate Program Chair. Courses for each program will be listed at the 100, 200, 300 or 400 level and designated as follows: - 100 level: Foundational courses - 200 level: M.S. program courses - 300 level: Ph.D. program courses - 400 level: Advanced seminars and courses All courses at KAUST are taught in English. KAUST maintains flexibility in its fields of study and curricular design in order to attract highly qualified students with diverse backgrounds and aspirations. The Office of the Registrar Student Handbook Page 8 The Registrar's Office is the custodian of the official students' information and records. It registers students, creates and maintains their records, provides certified documents, issues transcripts, and processes grades. The Registrar's Office is responsible for course enrollment management, classroom assignment, final exam scheduling, academic and administrative policy monitoring, and information dissemination. The office publishes the course schedule, available before registration for each semester and Summer session. Information about registration procedures, time and location of the courses, faculty, and course prerequisites and requirements will be provided to students prior to the beginning of the advising period. Student Identification Cards Every student is required to have a KAUST photo identification card, which is necessary to access KAUST facilities including the libraries, health services, and recreational facilities. Each student is expected to maintain control and possession of his/her ID card at all times and to present it to campus officials upon request. The identification card is intended to be used throughout the student's enrollment at the University. The ID card cannot be used by others or for purposes not intended by the University. Misuse of the ID card could result in disciplinary action. Lost or stolen cards should be reported to the ID Center. The following information will assist you in obtaining your KAUST Student ID: o To be eligible for a KAUST Student ID, you must be accepted as a student for the current semester. • Present your passport, Saudi National ID, or GCC Citizen ID to the ID office (Building 18, Office 2224). o Students will be eligible to acquire a KAUST Student ID up to two months prior to the beginning of the first day of classes for the semester for which the student is enrolled. Registration Procedures Students at KAUST register for classes online. Complete information about the registration process and instructions are provided prior to the beginning of the advising period. The course schedule is published by the Registrar's Office twice a year: in April for the courses offered in the Summer session and in the Fall semester, and in November for courses offered in the Spring semester. Students will not receive credit for courses unless they are properly registered. Students are responsible for ensuring that they are officially registered and that all grades they earned have been recorded. All students are required to meet with their academic adviser and register for each semester or session, including the Winter Enrichment Period and Summer session, whether they are attending a regular course of study, conducting research, doing independent reading, writing a thesis, or utilizing any other academic service or campus facility. The standard course load for a full time student is twelve (12) credit hours. A minimum course load of nine (9) credit hours or a maximum course load of fifteen (15) credit hours may be taken with the approval of the Student Handbook Page 9 Registrar. The miminum credit hour requirement may be waived when a student has fewer than 9 credit hours required to complete his or her degree program. Other exceptions to the minimum credit hour requirement must be approved by the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs. When registering for research, students should indicate the name of the faculty, and should consult with their academic adviser to determine the number of the credit hours granted for the research project. Directed research classes are not usually granted more than three academic credit hours. Registration for Continuing Students To continue at KAUST beyond the first semester, the student must make satisfactory progress in fulfilling any admission conditions, meet program requirements determined in consultation with his or her adviser, maintain a satisfactory grade point average and complete the required number of credits. Any student whose work is not satisfactory and who is not anticipated to make substantial progress may be refused registration at the beginning of any semester by the appropriate academic division and the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs and will have his/her program terminated. Students are required to be registered in each semester and session until they complete the requirements for the degree in their program of study. Late Registration The late registration periods are identified in the academic calendar. Students who seek to register for a class or classes after the formal registration period must have the permission of the instructor of the course and the consent of the academic adviser. Registration after the first week of classes is permitted only under exceptional circumstances and requires the recommendation of the academic adviser and the consent of the Registrar. Approval for Special Circumstances Approval is required for changes of degree programs or courses, variations to course credit requirements, and late registration. The student must fill out the appropriate form and obtain approval from the student's adviser, the appropriate academic division, and the Registrar. Academic and Research Advisers Each student is assigned an academic adviser and a research adviser. A student's academic adviser is determined by the major track of the student and is particularly important for assistance in course planning at the beginning of the student's program. Each major track has at least one faculty member adviser, who will hold extra office hours at the time of registration for classes and will be available to the student to help plan for course registration and to answer academic questions. As the student progresses and becomes more involved in research, his/her research adviser will play a greater role in helping the student to choose courses and advising the student, but the student should continue to see his/her academic adviser to make certain that all degree requirements will be met. Student‐Adviser Relationship Student Handbook Page 10 Graduate students share responsibility with faculty advisers in creating a professional academic student‐adviser relationship. Mutual respect, honesty, and effective communication will help cultivate a successful relationship. Early in the student‐adviser relationship, graduate students and faculty advisers should discuss expectations of the relationship, and both should discuss not only academic, research, and professional goals but also issues pertinent to academic and research circumstances, including schedules, work‐life balance, and personal and family responsibilities. Both graduate students and faculty advisers are responsible for communicating as necessary. Change of Adviser A student who wishes to change his/her adviser will need to complete the Change of Adviser form, available from the Registrar's Office. A student who is changing his or her degree program will need to change his/her adviser to an adviser in the new program of study. Grade Point Average (GPA) Requirements Satisfactory performance requires that the Master's Degree student must earn at least a B‐ grade in each course and maintain at least a 3.00 grade point average. Courses in which a grade below a B‐ is earned will not count toward the Master's Degree. Doctoral students must earn at least a B grade in each course and maintain at least a 3.00 grade point average. Courses in which a grade below a B is earned will not count toward the Doctoral degree. Adding a Course A student may add courses during the first week of the semester. After the first week of a full semester, students need the instructor's permission to add a class. Dropping a Course Courses dropped during the first two weeks will not appear on the student's transcript. Classes dropped between the third and eighth week of classes will appear with the mark of 'W' on the student's transcript. The student's grade point average (GPA) will not be affected. Students will be allowed to withdraw from a class after the first eight weeks only under exceptional circumstances. Withdrawing from a class after the eighth week will require a written explanation for withdrawing, as well as approval from the academic adviser and the Registrar. Applying for Graduation Students must apply for graduation the semester prior to the one in which they plan to graduate. A student who misses the deadline for acceptance of the thesis or dissertation must register the following semester or session in order to receive the degree. Leave of Absence Students are required to maintain their admission status until all requirements for a degree are fulfilled, whether by continuity of registration or on the basis of an approved leave of absence. A leave of absence for medical or other reasons may be approved for up to one year. If a PhD student has not yet been admitted to candidacy for the doctoral degree, this request must be Student Handbook Page 11 approved by the academic adviser. If the student has been admitted to candidacy, both the academic adviser and the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs must approve the application. An approved leave of absence indicates that the student will return to KAUST at the end of the leave of absence period. However, a student on approved leave must petition to return to the University. A leave of absence for medical reasons requires a petition to the Registrar, supported by documentation from a physician, prior to reinstatement. A student on leave may not use any University facilities. Students who, due to a leave of absence, need additional semester(s) to complete a degree program must file a petition with the Registrar's Office. The Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs will determine if such a request is warranted. The Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs may place a student on involuntary leave of absence if persuaded by the evidence that such an action is necessary for the protection of the KAUST community or for the personal safety or welfare of the student involved. Such a decision by the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs is subject to automatic review within seven days by the Provost. Grading System KAUST uses letter grades and symbols to record the evaluation of students' performance in a course: Grading is based on a 4.0‐point system as follows: − A = 4.0 − A‐ = 3.67 − B+ = 3.33 − B = 3.0 − B‐ = 2.67 − C+ = 2.33 − C = 2.0 − C‐ = 1.67 − D+ = 1.33 − D = 1.00 − D‐ = 0.67 − F = 0 − W = Withdrew (does not affect grade point average) − I = Incomplete (does not affect grade point average) − AU = Audit (does not affect grade point average) − S = Satisfactory (does not affect grade point average) − U = Unsatisfactory (does not affect grade point average) − IP = In Progress (does not affect grade point average) Student Handbook Page 12 Calculation of the GPA The Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) is calculated for all attempted credit courses completed to date at KAUST, by dividing the total number of quality points received for each class by the total number of credits attempted. Quality points are determined by multiplying the weight given each grade by the number of credit hours for the class. Incomplete Grades Students who complete the majority of the assignments required in a class but are unable to complete the course may request that the instructor of the class give a grade of incomplete (I). The instructor and student will then agree on the assignments due as well as the final date the assignment is to be submitted, at which time the instructor will assign a grade. Instructors may refuse to assign an incomplete grade if they feel that the student has had sufficient opportunity to complete all the work, or assign a lower grade because the work is submitted late. Incomplete course work must be completed within the first two weeks of the subsequent semester or session. If the course work is not completed within the first two weeks of the subsequent semester or session, the I (incomplete) grade will be converted to F (fail). Grade Appeals Students have the right to appeal their final grade in a course but must do so prior to the end of the drop period of the subsequent semester. The following is the Grade Appeal Procedure: 1. The student should first discuss the issue informally with the relevant faculty member. 2. If the matter cannot be resolved this way, the student may initiate an appeal to the academic adviser outlining the reasons in writing. 3. Copies of the appeal will be forwarded to the Dean. The Dean will assign a faculty member in the same subject matter to review the grade. 4. The final decision is made by the Dean and conveyed to the student in a timely manner. 5. If a change of the final grade is approved, the new grade will be recorded on the student's record and the disputed grade will be deleted. Satisfactory Academic Progress There are two criteria that need to be met for a student to maintain satisfactory academic progress at the University: minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) and progress toward degree. The minimum cumulative grade point average required for master's degree and doctoral degree students is 3.0 or B (on a 4.0 scale). Progress toward degree is determined by credit hours earned. It is expected that all students will complete 12 credit hours each semester, excluding Summer sessions. Students must take a minimum of nine (9) credit hours per academic semester (Fall and Spring), but must also complete the degree requirements within the amount of time designated by the student's academic program. Student Handbook Page 13 Academic Sanctions Students who fail to meet the criteria for satisfactory academic progress will be subject to academic sanctions. There are three levels of academic sanctions: Academic Notice; Academic Probation; and Academic Suspension. Academic Notice is applicable to those students who failed to meet the required credit limit of 9 but achieved the minimum grade point average of 3.0 as well as those students who completed nine (9) or more credits but failed to meet the minimum grade point average by one grade increment (2.67 to 2.99 [B‐]). Students placed on Academic Notice will have a letter placed in their file, but there will be no notation placed on the academic transcript. These students will be monitored in subsequent semesters to ensure satisfactory progress toward the degree. If the student's performance does not improve in the following semester, the student will be placed on academic probation. Academic Probation is applicable to those students who completed at least 9 credits but failed to meet the minimum CGPA by two grade increments (2.33 to 2.65 [C+]) but still have a reasonable chance of improving their performance to that required by the University by the end of the next semester or those students who completed fewer than 9 credits and failed to meet the minimum required CGPA by one increment (2.67 to 2.99 [B‐]). Students placed on Academic Probation will have the sanction reflected on their transcript, and if their performance does not improve to the standard of the University by the following semester, they will be sanctioned with academic dismissal. Academic Dismissal is applicable to those students who failed to meet the minimum CGPA and are, based on current semester performance, not likely to succeed (below 2.33 [C or lower]). Academic Dismissal is also recommended for students who are in degree programs mismatched with their undergraduate degrees and who failed to meet the minimum GPA by more than two grade increments. The sanction of Academic Dismissal will result in dismissal from the University. Students dismissed will have the right to appeal the dismissal prior to the beginning of the following full academic semester. If it is decided to rescind the dismissal, the student will be allowed to continue at KAUST on probationary status, and the subsequent performance of the student will be monitored to ensure satisfactory progress. It may also recommended that the student attend another institution to provide necessary background training so that the student can be readmitted to KAUST when better prepared. If the student chooses not to appeal, or if the decision is to dismiss the student, effort will be made to assist the student in securing placement at an institution more suitable to the student's academic ability and goals. Students' Permanent Records Students' permanent records at KAUST include: basic identification information on the student; a listing of all coursework accepted by KAUST for transfer; a semester‐by‐semester listing of all KAUST courses attempted and completed; all grades, credits, and grade point averages earned each semester; any necessary notations concerning academic probation or dismissal; waivers Student Handbook Page 14 and/or substitutions for program requirements; and notation of degree completion for graduated students. A student record is considered to be permanent in that it will be kept as an active record in perpetuity and will never be disposed of by the institution. It is the permanent and official record of all grades, credits, and certificates earned by the student at KAUST. Academic Transcripts An official transcript is a copy of the student's courses, grades and, if applicable, degrees received, printed on a KAUST transcript form, bearing the official seal or stamp of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and mailed directly to the individual who needs official confirmation of the student's academic achievements at KAUST. Students may request a copy of the official transcript be sent directly to them using a Transcript Request form. The copy of the official transcript given directly to students will be marked as a 'Student Copy.' Falsification of Records by Students All instances of alleged falsification of University records (admission, registration, records, placement, etc.) will be reported to the Registrar's Office. The Registrar will review the evidence and notify the student of the alleged infraction. The student will be given an opportunity to reply, in writing, to the charges. All finding will be referred to the KAUST Student Disciplinary Committee. The Committee will review the evidence and any reply from the student. If it is determined that an infraction was committed, the Board will impose an appropriate penalty, up to and including dismissal from the University. Entering the University using falsified or misleading documents or intentionally omitting documents may lead to dismissal or degree revocation. The University also reserves the right to initiate legal proceedings against the student. Policy on Release of Student Records With the exception of authorized personnel at KAUST, the University will not release any personal information from a student's permanent academic record to a third party without the written consent of the student. The University does reserve the right to release the enrollment status of students, and information about degrees, honors, and awards received as well as information about a student's academic progress to agencies from which a student receives financial aid. Graduation Upon recommendation to the Graduate Committee, degrees are awarded two times each year, at the conclusion of Fall and Spring semesters. Students must apply for conferral of a graduate degree by filing an Application to Graduate form by the deadline for each semester. Requests for degree conferral are reviewed by the student's academic department and the Registrar's Office to verify completion of degree requirements. The University reserves the right to confer a degree on a student who has completed all of the requirements for a degree even though the Student Handbook Page 15 student has not applied to graduate; such an individual would then be subject to the University's usual rules and restrictions regarding future enrollment or registration. Students who wish to withdraw a request for conferral of a degree or make changes to the Application to Graduate should notify the Registrar's Office in writing. Students who withdraw their graduation applications or fail to meet degree requirements must reapply to graduate in a subsequent semester. Commencement Ceremonies Commencement ceremonies are held at the end of the Fall semester for students who have received degrees at the end of the previous Spring, Summer, and Fall semesters. In mid‐ September, students eligible to graduate will be provided with information on commencement activities and the distribution of diplomas. Withdrawal from the University A student who wishes to withdraw from an academic program for a semester or leave the University must indicate this intent by filling out the Leave of Absence form and submitting it to the Registrar's Office. If the student wishes to have a transcript showing the academic courses completed up to the date of withdrawal, he or she must fill out a Transcript Request form and pay the applicable fee. Transcripts, grade reports or other official documents will be released to the student only after all University obligations have been met. If the student does not enroll for classes for two consecutive semesters, without the written permission of the Registrar, he or she will be withdrawn from his or her selected program of study. To continue in the program, the student must reapply for admission to KAUST. Section 3– Student Life Students as Community Members KAUST provides innumerable opportunities for academic and research collaboration, and living in a community with residents from over 75 countries further enriches a student's graduate experience. Being part of the KAUST residential community affords graduate students accessibility to campus resources, faculty, staff, and the myriad programs and services offered by KAUST, its partners, and invited guests from around the globe. Campus and Community: Facilities and Services The University campus and community are situated in a unique coastal location on the eastern shore of the Red Sea, approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of Jeddah and neighboring the quiet fishing village of Thuwal. The KAUST campus spans more than 36 million square meters, including a unique coral reef ecosystem that the University will preserve as a marine sanctuary. The campus was constructed to have a minimal environmental footprint and high aesthetic impact, with an emphasis on Student Handbook Page 16 energy efficiency, sustainable development, and conservation of historical/cultural sites and sensitive ecosystems. The KAUST campus and surrounding community incorporate a distinctive blend of traditional regional architecture and modern amenities. The buildings evoke visions of ancient centers of learning within a context of high‐tech science and research facilities. Surrounded by the beauty of the Red Sea, the campus is located in a secure environment featuring a well‐planned and landscaped academic core and research laboratories, along with seaside community facilities and services. Adjacent to the academic core and research laboratories, the Safaa Harbor District commercial center provides numerous opportunities for work/life balance, including a wide variety of shops and waterfront locations. Further out from the campus and Safaa Harbor District, parks and playgrounds line two distinct residential communities and neighborhoods. Notable features of the campus include: world‐class research labs and facilities; children's schools; a variety of housing options; diverse recreational amenities including libraries, athletic fields, bowling lanes, a rock climbing wall, public parks, garden spaces, a golf course, yacht club and marina; and retail and community services. Security and Safety KAUST provides protection and safety of human, physical, and intellectual assets for its community. http://facilities.kaust.edu.sa/Security/Pages/Home.aspx Fire Alarms Each building is equipped with a fire alarm system. If a fire alarm sounds, you should: 1. Quickly put on appropriate clothing and shoes. 2. Grab a towel to put over your face to prevent smoke inhalation. 3. Close your windows, if they are open. 4. Check your door or doorknob with the back of your hand. A. If it is hot, do not open it. Block cracks around the door with wet towels. Call 911 (or 808‐0911), giving your name, building address, room number and situation. DO NOT leave your room if the door is hot until told to do so. B. If it is cool, exit cautiously and lock your door. Be sure to take your keys and your KAUST ID card if you can find them quickly and safely. 5. Walk quickly, in an orderly manner, through the exit for your area and continue to walk at least 100 feet from the building. 6. DO NOT re‐enter the building until you are permitted to do so by direct communication with fire safety personnel. If you discover a fire, activate a pull station. When you reach a safe area outside, call 911 (or 808‐0911) and ensure that you provide all pertinent information for emergency personnel. Community Services Student Handbook Page 17 KAUST provides a variety of community resources to help students and their family members enjoy active, healthy lives and balance their professional and family commitments with satisfying leisure opportunities. Community and residential services provided include: schooling for students from age three (3) through grade 12; daycare centers; home maintenance; high‐speed wireless Internet; satellite television; electricity and water; waste removal and recycling; and local telephone service. The Safaa Harbor District commercial center provides the following services for students, faculty, and staff: grocery store; bank; post office; dry cleaners; theater with cinemas and a stage for live performances; beauty salon and barber shop; and a variety of restaurants, cafes and retails shops. KAUST Medical Center In order to provide world‐class medical care, KAUST has partnered with the International Medical Center, one of the premier medical centers in the Middle East. Care is provided in the state‐of‐the‐art KAUST Medical Center located on campus, where most outpatient medical needs can be met. Services include family medicine, pediatrics, physical therapy, pharmacy, lab, x‐ray, and 24 hour Emergency Room. Additionally, specialty services including obstetrics and gynecology, ENT, and ophthalmology are provided on a periodic basis. Care not available at the KAUST Medical Center, such as sub‐specialty care and hospitalization, will be arranged by referral to the International Medical Center in Jeddah. Same day appointment availability, backed by 24‐hour emergency room services, ensures timely access to high‐quality care. The KAUST Medical Center is located within the community support services area adjacent to the main campus and town center. A helipad is located within close proximity of the medical center for emergency evacuation to regional health care facilities. Outpatient clinic: Saturday to Wednesday 8:00 a.m. ‐ 4:00 p.m.; Thursday 8:00 a.m. ‐ 12:00 p.m. Phone +966 (2) 808‐4111 for Medical and Dental Clinic Appointments http://facilities.kaust.edu.sa/HSE/HSEDivisions/Medical/Pages/MedicalServices.aspx KAUST Schools Located in a University setting, KAUST Schools' curriculum takes advantage of our unique learning environment near the Red Sea. Our students enjoy a wide range of activities across several interest areas including sports and the arts. The focus is on providing activities that stimulate both the mind and the body and give students an outlet for expression in multiple ways, enabling each child to develop and explore a broad spectrum of interests. The school experience at KAUST focuses on the entire child. Central to our mission is giving students the opportunity to grow in all ways, not just academically. Calendar Starts: August Concludes: June Vacations: Vacation dates will be announced School Week Saturday through Wednesday Student Handbook Page 18 Curriculum: KAUST Schools is an International Baccalaureate (IB) Candidate School. The IB program is a universally accepted, college preparatory course of study. The IB program (www.ibo.org) is a continuum of high‐quality education that encourages international mindedness and a positive attitude toward learning. Ages served: The school serves age 3 through grade 12. Children must be 3 years old on or before August 31 of the entry year to enter the KAUST early childhood (K1) program. Language of Instruction: English http://www.kaustschools.org/page.cfm?p=1 Libraries There are three libraries in the KAUST community: the KAUST Library, which serves the research and teaching needs of the University; the Harbor Library, which serves as the public library for recreational reading and cultural activities; and the Harbor School libraries, which serve the educational needs of K‐12 students. KAUST Library: Occupying Building 12 at the center of campus and on the Red Sea shore is the three‐story, translucent‐clad research library of the University. Open to all community members twenty‐four hours, seven days a week, this library houses the science and technology collections and information services that support KAUST's graduate programs and scientific research. In its first year, the KAUST library amassed a collection of over 4,000 print books, 30,000 e‐books, and 10,000 online journal subscriptions. Reference and research assistance, document delivery services, and printing and scanning services are available upon request. The library facility offers 150 public workstations, seating for 400, quiet and group study areas, a café, a computer lab, and a meeting/presentation room. For more information please visit the KAUST Library website at www.kaust.edu.sa/library, e‐mail email@example.com, or call (02) 808 ‐3630. Harbor Library: Located directly on the shore of the Red Sea on Harbor Square, a few blocks west of Discovery Square, the Harbor Library serves the recreational and cultural interest of the KAUST community. Community members may find popular books, children's literature, current newspapers and magazines, basic reference and online databases, as well as DVDs, CDs, and audio books. Although most of the collection is in English, there are some items in Arabic and Tagalog. On the ground floor of the two‐story library, there are two seminar rooms for training, demonstrations, and meetings. Library hours are 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. seven days a week. Phone (02) 808‐6648, 808‐6649. Harbor School Libraries: The Harbor School has three well‐stocked library media centers, located in the Early Childhood Center, the Elementary School and the Secondary School. The Harbor School Libraries serve students in grades Pre‐Kindergarten through 12, their parents, and the community. The libraries have over 50,000 books, plus e‐books, Playaways, and Kindles, as well as online databases geared towards the students and faculty of the KAUST Student Handbook Page 19 Schools and their families. The Libraries have a small but growing collection of Arabic and Islamic Studies materials and books, as well as many picture books for younger readers, literary classics, contemporary and young adult novels, and a well‐rounded nonfiction section. Library hours are 7:30am – 4:00pm on weekdays. All KAUST community members are welcome to browse the collections and become members. For more information please visit the library website at www.kslibrary.info. Transportation Transportation services include limousine service, car rental, shuttle bus service, shopping bus service and special events bus service. These services are available seven days per week. Complimentary bus service is offered to nearby cities. Campus transportation: Bus: Free campus buses provide transportation throughout campus. Bicycle: KAUST is a campus easily navigated on bicycle. Cyclists should heed traffic regulations and wear helmets. There is a bicycle shop (sales and repair) on campus. Pedestrian: Many areas of campus are conducive to walking for both convenience and recreation. In addition to sidewalks, there are several areas on campus with designated walking paths. Automobile: Community members must follow KAUST regulations regarding registering vehicles, as well as the following minimum safety standards: • Drivers must be at least 16 years of age, yield to pedestrians and bicycle riders at roads crossing, and obey traffic lights, stop signs and posted speed limits. • Seat Belts must be worn by all drivers and passengers. Small children must ride in an appropriate Child Safety Seat and must never ride in the lap of another person. • Helmets must be worn by all riders of motorcycles, motor scooters and quads. • Bicycle Riders should wear helmets and have proper lighting while riding at dusk or in darkness. • Children under the age of 16 must not be allowed to operate a motorized vehicle, motorcycle, motor scooter or quad bike on KAUST roads. • The Speed Limit on KAUST roads is 60 km/h on divided roads, 40 km/h on community roads and 30 km/h on Exploration Avenue between Discovery Boulevard and Transformation Boulevard. KAUST is adopting a sustainable approach to transportation through the utilization of low carbon emission and environmentally friendly types of vehicles and electric carts or bicycles for short distance transport. The transportation services within KAUST will rely on public transit through the provision of buses connecting all zones and buildings. They will include community buses, buses to the surrounding towns, school buses, staff buses, and taxi services inside and outside of KAUST. http://facilities.kaust.edu.sa/CommunityServices/logistic/Pages/Transportation.aspx Phone (02) 808‐5017 for 24 hour KAUST Taxi Services Student Handbook Page 20 Mail and Courier Services Mail services at KAUST are located in Discovery Square. Services available include: international and domestic express courier service; mailbox service; internal mail service; mail pickup and deliveries; mail receiving counters; proof of delivery; mail tracking; receiver information; security mail check; and notification of mail arrival by either email, SMS or a phone call. Residents' mail should be addressed as follows: 4700 King Abdullah University of Science and Technology NAME of RECIPIENT Mail Box # (assigned number of mail recipient) Thuwal 23955‐6900 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Visit the KAUST post office (located at Discovery Square) to obtain an individually assigned combination to access to your mailbox. Mail Services: FedEx (Discovery Square) (02) 808‐5777 Restaurants and Food Services Food Services vary from a fine dining restaurant at the Yacht Club to cafeteria‐type restaurants at the Main Campus and Central Services area. Snack bars, cafes, and vending machines are also available at the recreation centers and the KAUST Medical Center. The food service outlets provide full meal services from breakfast to dinner, hot and cold snacks and beverages. Food Services also provide menu options to meet diverse cultural expectations, income, and special dietary needs, and will provide hospitality and themed meals to celebrate seasonal festivities when requested. http://facilities.kaust.edu.sa/CommunityServices/Support/FoodServices/Pages/Home.aspx Museum of Science and Technology in Islam (MOSTI): The Museum in the University celebrates the historical contributions of Muslim scholars to science and technology during the Islamic Golden Age (7th‐17th centuries), linking the history of science and technology to the new 'House of Wisdom', the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. Volunteer program: The Museum has a program for KAUST Community members (students, faculty, staff, and families) to share their time starting with a minimum of one two‐hour session per week. Activities: The Museum offers scheduled visits for university students and school students outside of KAUST and plans to offer workshops, lectures, and events related to the content of the Museum. http://www.kaust.edu.sa/about/museum/museum.html (02) 808‐3175/3053 Student Handbook Page 21 The Student Center The Student Center (Building 18), open to all students, faculty, and staff, is located on the spine, near the town center (Discovery Square), and is open 24 hours a day. In addition to housing the Offices of Development and Support and Campus Life and a bookstore, the Student Center offers meeting and event rooms; office space for the Graduate Student Council; workspace for student clubs and associations; computers for student use; areas for student‐oriented functions; and a game room with table tennis, air hockey, Wii, Guitar Hero, and other entertainment. Tihama Bookstore, Building 18, Room 3202, 802‐4072 The following offices, located in Building 18, support graduate students' academic, personal and professional development and success: The Offices of Development and Support and Campus Life: The Offices of Development and Support and Campus Life support graduate student success by managing the delivery of services and resources of several offices. The office works closely with the Graduate Student Council and collaborates with other KAUST offices and departments to enhance graduate students' experiences. For more information or to make an appointment, contact: Dr. Faizi Ghodsi, Director of Development and Support and Campus Life, email@example.com, Building 18, Room 4225, 808‐3435. Graduate Skills Lab: The Graduate Skills Lab provides resources and services to graduate students in support of their overall academic success. The Graduate Skills Lab has services to assist students with English for Special Purposes, Academic Writing, and Math. It offers subject‐ specific tutoring as well as course instruction, workshops, seminars and one‐on‐one tutoring. Graduate students may make appointments for individual consultations by contacting: Jill Robbins, Director, Graduate Skills Lab, firstname.lastname@example.com, Building 18, Room 2236, 808 3405. Graduate Residence Life: Graduate Residence Life serves as a resource to students throughout their residential experience at KAUST. To complement graduate students' academic and research pursuits, the office promotes educational, cultural, and social opportunities and encourages graduate students to capitalize upon the multicultural environment in which they live at KAUST. Graduate Residence Life coordinates with other departments to provide appropriate services and resources in support of a safe and positive living experience in KAUST student housing. For further information, contact: Indira Rajagopalan, Graduate Residence Life, email@example.com Student Center/Building 18, Room 2239 Graduate Involvement and Recreation: Graduate Involvement and Recreation provides opportunities for graduate students to develop their leadership and intercultural skills; fosters their learning and engagement; and promotes community in support of graduate student success. Graduate Involvement and Recreation manages graduate student organizations, which provide graduate students with opportunities to participate in educational, social, cultural, and recreational programs, activities, and special events with peer colleagues. Graduate students interested in forming new graduate student organizations should contact the office of Graduate Student Handbook Page 22 Involvement and Recreation: Paul Bennett, Involvement and Recreation firstname.lastname@example.com Student Center/Building 18, Room 2231 Professional Development: Professional Development prepares graduate students to make appropriate decisions and develop lifelong career management skills and to successfully negotiate and promote themselves in the job market; promotes employment and internship opportunities worldwide; facilitates on‐campus networking opportunities with employers; and informs graduate students of the latest employment trends in science and technology. Graduate students may make appointments for individual consultations by contacting: Anton Varela, Career Consultant email@example.com Student Center/Building 18, Room 2241 Health, Wellness and Counseling: Health, Wellness, and Counseling supports the complete physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, social and environmental well‐being of graduate students, through individual and group sessions, workshops and outside referrals. Graduate students may make appointments for health and wellness‐related consulatations by contacting Temille Porter, PhD, Clinical Psychologist, Manager, Health, Wellness and Counseling email@example.com Student Center/Building 18, Room 4213 Recreation Services Recreation Services has extensive recreation and sports facilities, including the current and planned facilities described below, which will be accessible to all students and their dependents. Harbor Sports Club: The Harbor Sports Club is situated in the Town Center and is the largest recreation center. Facilities includes swimming pools with lifeguards; fully automated AMF ten pin bowling alley; fitness rooms with Life fitness cardio and resistance equipment and staffed by professionally trained instructors; exercise studios; indoor rock climbing; games room with billiards and pool tables; squash, racquetball, and tennis courts; a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the canal; gymnasium for basketball, volleyball, badminton, and other sports; athletics track; club and self directed group meeting rooms; and a soccer pitch. Beaches: The KAUST swimming beach has trained lifeguards on duty during operating hours. Instructors offer lessons in kayaking and windsurfing, and rentals include paddleboats, kayaks, and windsurf boards. Other beach activities include beach volleyball and beach soccer, in addition to other scheduled fun events. Safaa Golf Club: Safaa Golf Club is a championship‐designed golf course. The 9‐hole course has state of the art practice facilities. Memberships will be available to the golf club; the golf course is fully grassed, floodlit, and has golf buggies. Clinics taught by the PGA professionals are aimed at all ages and abilities. The clubhouse, consisting of a Pro‐ Shop, restaurant, locker rooms and a teaching room, is open to all KAUST students and their dependents. Student Handbook Page 23 Self‐Directed Groups: Self‐directed groups are made up of KAUST community members with a common or shared interest and operate in a very similar way to clubs or associations. Each group works with a Recreation Adviser to establish the group and to manage the areas such as membership development, constitution, meetings, rules, and finance. Typically, 25 people should be available to start a group, although smaller‐sized groups will be considered. Theater and Cinema: Situated in Discovery Square, the 250 seat Theater and Cinema shows movies in English; Arabic and Hindi. Other popular international movies will be shown at certain times. Outdoor Recreation: There are extensive outdoor recreational areas including several soccer fields; areas designated as parks, open spaces, and picnic areas; and playgrounds for children. Both walking and cycling are popular on campus as effective exercise, recreation, and transportation. Marina: The Harbor area includes a deep‐water marina with pontoon berthing for up to 85 boats and all associated facilities such as maintenance, fuel and expert advice. The Harbor Master serves as a resource regarding local navigation and weather information, and staff members are available to assist with berthing, cleaning and looking after boats. Residents may moor personal boats at the marina. Al‐Marsa Yacht Club: The Al‐Marsa Yacht Club consists of a restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating; multipurpose rooms; locker rooms; and stunning views of the Marina, the Breakwater Beacon and the Red Sea. The Club will serve both as a social hub for members and residents and also as the hosting venue for a regular program of regattas and events on the water. Those who are new to yachting or who simply wish to brush up and improve their skills will have the opportunity to have instruction in various yachting‐related subjects. Stadium: KAUST has its own stadium for large events, ceremonies and athletic events. The Stadium has its own media center for televised events and also hospitality areas. Water Sports Center: Presently under construction, the Water Sports Center plans to offer various water sports and activities, including SCUBA diving, jet‐skiing, catamaran sailing, ocean kayaking, windsurfing, and wakeboarding. The Water Sports Center will also provide residents with the opportunity to learn and improve skills through expert instruction. While Recreation Services operates a fleet of craft, students may store their own watercraft in the water sports marina or shore side storage facility. The KAUST Dive School, based at the Water Sports Center, will provide instruction, services, and programs for both novice and experienced divers. The Water Sports Center will also house a cafe, clubhouse, changing facilities and showers, water sports shop, fishing shop, SCUBA diving pool and a marina. Student Handbook Page 24 Programs: Recreation Services offers a range of programs for the community, including the following examples of current and anticipated offerings: • Fitness Classes – including spinning, high/low impact aerobics, step classes, and yoga • After School Program – after‐school programs for elementary and secondary school children • Youth Program – special programs for children and teenagers during school holidays • Holiday events – special events held during the Eid Holidays and other holidays • Water Safety Programs – for pools and beaches • Coaching and Instruction Program – coaching sessions in various sports, including golf, tennis, squash, and swimming • Entertainment Program – variety of entertainment to appeal to all community members • Water Sports Program – activities and lessons, including kayaking, windsurfing, snorkeling, diving, sailing, jet skiing, and fishing • Wellness Education – including stress and weight management Section 4– Policies Student Code of Conduct PART I – THE PURPOSE FOR THE STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT PURPOSE OF THE CODE The Student Code of Conduct has been designed to create a learning atmosphere that supports the vision, mission, and values that constitute the cornerstone of KAUST. KAUST is committed to providing all the support needed for students to become the best in their field of endeavors in the interest of the Kingdom, the region, and the world. To achieve this result, the free and open exchange of ideas and opinions by all members of the university is integral. To maintain this open environment of exploration and study, the Student Code of Conduct constitutes the guiding document for student behavior. The purpose of the Student Code of Conduct is to protect and promote KAUST's pursuit of its educational and related goals. These interests, with respect to the governing of community conduct, include the following: • The opportunity of all members of the KAUST community to attain their educational objectives. • The generation and maintenance of an intellectual and educational atmosphere through the KAUST community. • The protection of the health, safety, welfare, property, and human rights of all members of the KAUST community, and the safety, property, and reputational interests of KAUST. JURISDICTION The Student Code of Conduct applies to the on‐ and off‐campus conduct of all students and registered student organizations in direct connection with: • Academic course requirements or any credit‐bearing experiences Student Handbook Page 25 • Any activity supporting pursuit of a degree • Any activity sponsored, conducted, or authorized by the university or by registered student organizations • Any activity in which a campus police report has been filed, a summons or indictment has been issued, or an arrest has occurred for a crime. The powers of KAUST's judicial boards shall be limited to the enforcement of KAUST conduct regulations and shall not extend to the enforcement of Kingdom laws, except to the coincidental extent that KAUST conduct regulations are similar to provisions of Kingdom law. INHERENT AUTHORITY KAUST reserves the right to administer the Student Code of Conduct and take necessary and appropriate action to protect the safety and well being of the campus community by proceeding with the hearing process even if the student withdraws from KAUST, is no longer enrolled in classes, or subsequently fails to meet the definition of a student while a disciplinary matter is pending. The senior leadership of KAUST also reserves the right to amend any of the elements of the Student Code of Conduct, but must then disseminate these changes widely so as to inform the KAUST community of the changes. Students continue to be subject to applicable Kingdom laws while at KAUST, and violations of those laws may also constitute violations of the Student Code of Conduct. In such instances, KAUST may proceed with university disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct independently of any criminal proceeding involving the same conduct and may impose sanctions for violation of the Student Code of Conduct even if such criminal proceeding is not yet resolved or is resolved in the student's favor. THE ETHICS OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Academic integrity is absolutely critical to the successful fulfillment of KAUST's Vision, Mission, and Values. Enhancing learning in the fields of science and technology is dependent on individuals working together in honesty, trust, fairness, respect and responsibility. Aspects of this ethical stance include: Personal Ethics – Students are responsible for maintaining an academic environment in which they act honestly with peers, the faculty and staff at KAUST so as to inspire relationships of trust, fairness, and respect. A student must not engage in any dishonest behavior or behavior that would produce deleterious consequences for others. Personal ethics are not culture bound but must aspire to the highest form of personal and academic conduct. Social Responsibility – The commitment to ethical conduct at KAUST is not only an individual matter but a social contract between students and KAUSTstudents have an obligation to ensure that not only their behavior, but the behavior of all associated with KAUST, is conducted in a principled and moral manner. This may mean speaking out against plagiarized papers or research, advising colleagues and instructors not to take advantage of KAUST's resources for personal use, or conducting open forums in which any type of dishonest behavior is discussed and appropriate solutions reached. Awareness – Students are responsible for identifying areas that are not being properly monitored to ensure ethical behavior on behalf of students, faculty and staff and reporting Student Handbook Page 26 these to the appropriate authorities. Students who do not confront wrongdoing within KAUST tacitly condone behavior that could ultimately compromise their own positions and security. PART II – TYPES OF PROHIBITED CONDUCT The violations of the Code are presented below in three categories: Academic Integrity, Health and Safety, and Sexual Misconduct. CLASSES OF VIOLATION Violations are categorized on three levels: High‐Level or Separable Offenses: These violations may result in: 1) permanent expulsion from KAUST; 2) restitution of damages; 3) possible criminal or civil prosecution; and/or 4) suspension or dismissal for at least one academic year (after which a hearing will be held to determine if the student will be readmitted); 5) Revocation of awarded degrees. All faculty and staff are required to report all Class A and Class B violations to the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs. Mid‐Level or Sanctionable Offenses: These violations will result in: 1) suspension or dismissal from KAUST for up to one year; 2) community service; and/or 3) restitution, if required. The student is not guaranteed readmission at the end of a suspension period, but is guaranteed a review of the case and a decision regarding eligibility for readmission. If more than one Class B offense has been committed, it will be deemed that a Class A violation has occurred. All faculty and staff are required to report all Class A and Class B violations to the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs. Low‐Level Disciplinary Offenses: These violations are normally addressed by faculty and/or a relevant department or division of KAUST and will not be reported to the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs. Penalties might include: 1) warnings (oral or written); 2) reprimands (in writing); 3) dean's warning (in writing – only two are allowed during a student's academic career at KAUST); 4) reduction of grade; 5) removal from the major; 6) disenrollment from a class; 7) probation; 8) loss of academic scholarship; 9) prohibition from receiving any honorary awards; 10) prohibition from serving as an officer in any KAUST organization; 11) removal from campus housing, and the like, depending on the seriousness of the offense. If more than one Class C offense has been committed, the case will be presented to the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs as a Class B offense. Following each violation below, the letter (A), (B), or (C) indicates the class of violation. VIOLATIONS Academic Integrity Cheating (A): While sitting for an exam, using unauthorized notes, aids, or information obtained from sources other than the instructor; knowingly providing or receiving information during examinations, or the possessions and/or use of unauthorized materials during those examinations; trying to falsify any part of an examination that would represent learning by any Student Handbook Page 27 other person than the exam taker. Cheating includes obtaining copies of examinations beforehand (if not permitted), trying to take someone else's exam or trying to have someone else take one's own exam. Plagiarism (A): Submitting a written document (homework, term paper, research findings, etc.) that in part or in whole is not one's own work, whether it be a quotation, an opinion, an idea obtained through conversation or reading, a fact, or research findings. All such materials must be given proper attribution through a citation specifying the source of the information. Fabrication (A): Falsifying or inventing information, laboratory or other data, citations; presenting data gathered outside of acceptable professional guidelines; failing to provide an accurate account of how information, data or citations were gathered; altering documents affecting academic records; forging signatures or authorizing false information on an official academic document, grade, letter, form, ID card, or any other KAUST document. Multiple Submissions (B): Submitting substantially the same work to satisfy requirements for one course or academic requirement that has been submitted in satisfaction of requirements for another course or academic requirement. Obtaining Unfair Advantage (B): Engaging in activities that unfairly place other students at a disadvantage, such as stealing, hiding, defacing or altering library or other resource material; unauthorized collaboration on an academic or research assignment; obstructing or interfering with another student's academic work; offering bribery to staff or any university employee to effect a grade change, or gain unfair advantage over other students. Dishonesty (B): Copying copyrighted materials for sale or purchase of such materials from others without receiving appropriate publisher's approval; unauthorized entry into, unauthorized use of, or issue of university property, including computers and data and voice communication networks; unlawfully copying of computer software; misrepresentation of personal circumstances to an instructor to gain personal advantage (e.g., requesting a makeup exam); taking credit for participating in a team research effort or an assignment when little or no contribution to the work has been made. Academic Disruption/Misconduct (C): Disruption or improper interference with the teaching, learning, research, administrative, consultative, social or other activities of KAUST; violation of course rules as contained in the course syllabus or other information provided to the student; violation of program regulations as established by departmental committees and made available to students; failure to observe punctuality in attending classes, workshops or other academic gatherings. Health and Safety KAUST will follow Saudi Arabian law in identifying illegal behavior in many of the following categories. Student Handbook Page 28 Endangering Self and Others (A): Stalking, taking or threatening action that endangers the safety, physical or mental health, or life of any person, or creates a reasonable fear of such action, whether intentionally or as a result of recklessness or gross negligence/breaching campus safety or security; engaging in a pattern of unwanted conduct directed at another person that threatens or endangers the safety, physical or mental health, or life or property of that person, or creates a reasonable fear of such a threat or action; violence, disorderly discriminatory or threatening/offensive behavior during any KAUST activity or on KAUST premises; any physical or mental abuse occurring between spouses or unrelated individuals; engaging in physical aggression including, but not limited to, assault; engaging, or attempting to engage, in intimidation, coercion, extortion, blackmail, or bribery. Disruption/Obstruction (A): Obstruction or improper interference with the functions, duties or activities of any student, member of staff or other employee of KAUST or any authorized visitor to KAUST; holding demonstrations, protests, sit‐ins, and the like without approval by the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs; disrupting or obstructing the normal education process or any KAUST function or activity by student demonstrations, sit‐ins, or "strikes;" preventing faculty, staff and students from executing their normal duties by virtue of intimidation or threat. Theft (A): Stealing on campus or at a KAUST‐authorized event off campus, including unauthorized use of KAUST equipment or services, or possession of stolen property. Dangerous Weapons or Materials/Drugs (A): Producing, distributing, possessing, storing, or using on campus or at a KAUST‐authorized event off campus any kind of weapon, device, explosive, dangerous chemical, hazardous materials, or any other instrument designed to do bodily harm or to threaten bodily harm; producing, distributing, possessing, storing, transferring, selling or attempting to sell, deliver, use or attempting to use, any illegal drugs, narcotic or hallucinogenic, on campus or at any KAUST‐authorized event off campus. Destruction of Property/Endangering Public Safety (B): Engaging in vandalism, defacement (including urination or defecation in public areas), or other intentional damage (such as spray painting, chalking, or graffiti) to property on campus or at KAUST‐authorized events off campus; unjustified discharge, damaging, or tampering with any fire extinguisher, fire alarm, or other safety devices; taking, or attempting to take, action that damages or could damage private property, without the consent of the owner or person legally responsible; unauthorized entry, unapproved duplication of keys or use of such, or unauthorized use of campus facilities. False Reporting (B): Intentionally initiating or causing to be initiated any false report, warning or threat of fire, explosion or other emergency. Smoking and Alcohol (B): Producing or drinking alcoholic beverages is not permitted on campus. Smoking is not permitted in KAUST buildings other than private residences. Discrimination (B): Discriminating on the basis of race, color, religion, or gender. Student Handbook Page 29 Sexual Misconduct Sexual misconduct includes physical contact or other non‐physical conduct of a sexual nature in the absence of clear, knowing and voluntary consent. Separable, Sanctionable, and Disciplinary violations include, but are not limited to the following; Rape (A) – Any sexual penetration (anal, oral, or vaginal), however slight, with any body part or object, by any person upon any other person without consent. Sexual Exploitation (A) – Taking non‐consensual, unjust or abusive sexual advantage of another, including prostituting another student, non‐consensual video or audio taping of sexual activity (see, also, KAUST Code of Conduct, "Audio/Video Recording), engaging in non‐ consensual voyeurism, and knowingly transmitting or exposing a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) or Human Immuno‐Deficiency Virus (HIV) to another person without the knowledge of that person. Sexual Contact (B) – Any intentional sexual touching, with any body part or object, by any person upon any other person without consent. Sexual Harassment (B) – Any behavior that fails to respect females or males that could be construed as being injurious to the well‐being of the victim, either mentally, emotionally, or physically, in which any words, interactions, writings, or other behaviors are of a sexually offensive nature. Sexual Public Displays (B) – Any indecent exposure of the private or intimate parts of the body, in a lewd manner, in public or in private premises, when the accused may be readily observed; any public displays of affection that might contravene Saudi Arabian law. Sexually Offensive Materials (B) – The possession, dissemination of materials of a pornographic or abusive nature that depict sexual poses or activities. Fraternization (C) – Conducting inappropriate social relationships. Dress Code (C) – Wearing improper and/or offensive attire for the performance of work or recreation in public places. Illegal activity outside of KAUST or the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia could result in dismissal from KAUST if such activity is deemed to be potentially dangerous to the student or the KAUST community. PART III ‐ ADJUDICATION OF VIOLATIONS OF THE CODE OVERVIEW OF JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS In determining the depth and breadth of a Code violation, the process outlined below will be followed. (For a full explanation of the processes, roles and responsibilities in the adjudication of Code violations, please see the Procedures for Adjudicating Student Code Violations.) Student Handbook Page 30 In general, any action to be adjudicated begins with a complaint, followed by an investigation. If sufficient evidence is established to warrant a hearing, the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs will either hold a Disciplinary Hearing or arrange for a Disciplinary Conference to be held. Should the accused wish to appeal any findings or disciplinary action, he or she may appeal to the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs to have the case reviewed. The outcome of this appeal may result in higher, lower, identical, or no sanctions at all being imposed. The decision reached by the Associate Provost shall be final. OVERSIGHT AND RECORD‐KEEPING OF JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS Disciplinary Committee ‐ Under the auspices of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs, a Disciplinary Committee shall be established to be the arbiter of all judicial proceedings held in response to Code violations. The Disciplinary Committee shall be responsible for the adjudication and judgment of all cases (especially Class A and B violations). Hearing Board – After an investigation is held, the Disciplinary Committee shall be convened to hear a case (including examination of evidence, listening to witnesses, and posing any questions to clarify the facts of the case). The Disciplinary Committee shall find the accused either guilty or innocent, and make recommendations for sanctions. Appeals – If it is determined that certain procedures were not followed, or new evidence has surfaced that might have affected the Disciplinary Committee's decision, a respondent may make an appeal to the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs for the case to be reviewed. Record Keeping – The appropriate office within the office of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs shall maintain records of all Disciplinary Committee meetings, and the judgments made for each case. This office will also maintain records of the enforcement of all sanctions. Enforcement of Sanctions – The appropriate office within the office of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs shall inform any academic Deans, Community Issues Committee Members, and/or Director of Housing about the sanctions imposed on the guilty party, and direct any judicial officers to carry out these sanctions. PART IV – CONCLUSION This Student Code of Conduct has been constructed and disseminated to all students to apprise students of their rights and responsibilities, and to identify the different behaviors that are expected of all students. When violations of this Code have been reported, or a complaint has been registered, it is the responsibility of KAUST and all involved parties to adjudicate each concern, to reach an appropriate solution, and for the appropriate bodies of KAUST to enforce any sanctions or reprimands applied. DEFINITION OF TERMS (These terms and definitions have been adapted from the Rutgers University Code of Student Conduct, July 2007 and the Ohio State University Code of Student Conduct, December 2007) Student Handbook Page 31 University Premises – For purposes of this Code, any buildings or grounds owned, leased, operated, controlled or supervised by KAUST. Student – Any person for whom KAUST maintains educational records and who has not yet been awarded his or her degree from KAUST. Faculty – Any person who holds a current academic appointment within KAUST. Administration or Staff – Any person who currently holds a non‐faculty appointment within KAUST. This does not include faculty who serve as Deans. Senior Leadership – Any person who currently holds a faculty or non‐faculty appointment at the rank of Dean or above. Member of the KAUST Community – Any student, faculty, administration or staff member of KAUST. KAUST‐sponsored Activity – Any academic, co‐curricular, extra‐curricular or other activity on or off campus, which is initiated, aided, authorized or supervised by KAUST. Associate Provost for Student Affairs (APSA) – The ultimate authority for all academic and student affairs on the KAUST campus or at KAUST‐sponsored activities. KAUST Disciplinary Committee (KDC) – A standing committee appointed by the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs that adjudicates and exercises oversight over all KAUST‐based disciplinary actions, including receiving complaints, initiating investigations, gathering evidence, holding hearings, and meting out appropriate punishments. Disciplinary Conference – An informal, non‐adversarial hearing usually conducted between the respondent and the Hearing Officer assigned by the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs. Hearing Officer – A staff member who is capable of leading a Disciplinary Conference or to guide the process of a KDC hearing. Hearing Board – Individuals (students, faculty, and staff) chosen and trained to attend and listen to the legal proceedings involved in resolving Class A and Class B student violations and to make a recommendation for punishment. Campus Advisor – Any member of the KAUST community who has been selected by a respondent or by a complainant to assist him or her in Hearings or Conferences conducted under this Code. Reckless – Conduct that one should reasonably be expected to know would create a substantial risk of harm to persons or property or which would otherwise be likely to result in substantial interference with KAUST activities or KAUST‐sponsored activities. Complainant – Any member of the KAUST community who has elected to serve as the complaining party in Hearings or Conferences conducted under this Code Respondent – Any KAUST student who has been accused of an act prohibited under this Code Victim – Any member of the KAUST community who alleges that she or he has suffered personal harm or injury as a result of an alleged violation(s) of this Code or of Kingdom law. Consent – The act of knowingly and voluntarily agreeing verbally or non‐verbally to engage in sexual activity. An individual cannot consent who is obviously substantially impaired by any drug or intoxicant; or who has been purposely compelled by force, threat of force, or deception; or who is unaware that the act is being committed; or whose ability to consent or resist is obviously impaired because of a mental or physical condition; or who is coerced by supervisory or disciplinary authority. Weapon – Any object or substance designed or which may be utilized to inflict a wound, cause injury, or incapacitate. A harmless instrument designed to look like a firearm, explosive or Student Handbook Page 32 weapon that is used by a person to cause reasonable apprehension of harm, or to assault another person, is expressly included within the meaning of weapon. PROCEDURES FOR ADJUDICATING STUDENT CODE VIOLATIONS OVERVIEW OF JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS A judicial process begins with the observation of, participation in, or being a victim of any Code violation in any of the following areas: Academic Misconduct, Health and Safety Misconduct, and Sexual Misconduct. For each violation, depending on a determination of whether the violation falls under the Class A, B, or C violations, the following process (with adaptations relevant to the violation) will be required. • Initiation ‐ Any person who is witness to or has experienced what they believe to be a possible Code violation should provide an authorized KAUST official with the information. Information about possible Code violations occurring in residence halls or family housing should be provided to the Housing Director. Information about possible non‐residence hall related Code violations should be provided to the designated person in the Office of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs. Information about possible academic misconduct should be presented to the designated person in the Office of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs. Upon hearing the information presented, the appropriate person in the Office of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs will determine if a Class A, B, or C violation may have been committed and then launch the appropriate process presented below. Any Class A or B violation must be launched with a complaint: • Complaint ‐ Any person subject to, or who witnesses, a violation of the Code or of Kingdom law should forward a written complaint to a faculty member, chairperson, or any university official. Academic, as well as non‐academic violations should be forwarded to the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs. Information and/or complaints about possible Code violations occurring in student housing should be sent to the Housing Director. The complaint should include: 1) a description of the alleged violation; 2) date the violation took place; 3) place the violation took place; 4) the individual who allegedly committed the violation; and 5) any other witnesses to the violations (with their contact information). The complaint should be signed by the complainant, and appropriate contact information be provided. Upon receipt of the complaint by the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs, the following will take place: • Preliminary Review – The Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs (or designee) will conduct a Preliminary Review of information and evidence that may result in a charge being brought against the student. The purpose of this Review shall be to determine if Student Handbook Page 33 there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a Disciplinary Hearing. It shall be the responsibility of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs (or designee) to advise the respondent that: o He or she has the right to remain silent throughout any proceedings conducted under this Code and this silence will not be held against him or her; and o Matters discussed during the Preliminary Review become part of the case record and may be presented during any Hearing or Disciplinary Conference. The Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs, after conducting the Preliminary Review, shall make one of the following determinations: o Dismissal of the complaint; o A charge(s) against the student, which, in the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs' opinion, does not merit separation or sanctions shall be referred to a Disciplinary Conference. o A charge(s) against the student ,which, in the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs' opinion, may involve either separable or sanctionable offenses shall be referred to a Disciplinary Hearing. If a student who has been charged with a Class C violation acknowledges engaging in prohibited conduct, a Disciplinary Conference will not be necessary. Failure to contest the charge or failure to respond will in effect be the same as a positive acknowledgement. Disciplinary actions will be determinded in accordance with the specific violation committed and any applicable penalties, restitution, or disciplinary action required shall be recommended by the Associate Provost for Student Affairs to the KAUST Disciplinary Committee, who, in turn will hand down a decision. Such decision shall be enforced by KAUST campus law enforcement officers (if necessary). • Investigation – If the Preliminary Review determines that a violation has occurred, the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs will inform the student, in writing, of the charges to be made. The Associate Provost for Student Affairs will then order an in‐depth investigation of the acts involved in the complaint to determine the extent to which Code or Kingdom law have been violated. This investigation will be conducted by campus law enforcement bodies, if necessary, or other designated university personnel. • Disciplinary Hearing – If the in‐depth investigation determines that either Class A or Class B violations have been committed, the complainant and the respondent (and the victim, if different from the complainant) will be notified (within 21 days from the date of the notification) to attend a hearing set by the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs. The notice must contain: 1) the time and place of the hearing; 2) specification of the Student Handbook Page 34 charges against the accused; and 3) statement of the accused's rights to be accompanied by counsel or an advisor of the accused's choice. NOTE: The counsel or advisor cannot participate in the hearing, but is there only to provide advice to the student. At least five (5) working days before the scheduled hearing, respondents and complainants shall inform the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs of their choice of Campus Adviser, their choice of attorney, and/or support person, if any, who will assist them in the hearing. The respondent shall be free to pick any member of the KAUST community as his/her campus adviser. At the hearing, all evidence discovered will be presented, and parties and all witnesses to the alleged violation will offer testimony and rebuttal to testimony as prescribed. The KAUST Disciplinary Committee, through the Chairperson, shall be allowed to call witnesses, to question the complainant, and to question any witnesses appearing at a hearing in an effort to determine the relevant facts about the complainant's charge(s) and the respondent's response. The KAUST Disciplinary Committee, upon the completion of the hearing, shall retire to closed deliberations. The KAUST Disciplinary Committee deliberations shall not be recorded or transcribed. Each respondent shall be regarded as not responsible unless the KAUST Disciplinary Committee determines the contrary based on the facts adduced at the hearing. The decision shall be by majority vote. Each Board member shall vote and may not abstain. The representative from the University Counsel's Office will not be considered a voting member of the KAUST Disciplinary Committee but will be present in the hearing room during the KAUST Disciplinary Committee's deliberations regarding the finding. The decision reached by the KAUST Disciplinary Committee shall be read by a member of the KAUST Disciplinary Committee in a reconvened KAUST hearing and a copy provided to the respondent either at the hearing or as soon thereafter as is practical. The victim, if any, and the complainant may be present during the reading of the KAUST Disciplinary Committee decision; however, other witnesses will be excluded. The determination of the Committee with respect to each charge shall be supported by a brief written summary of the findings relied upon by the KAUST Disciplinary Committee. The written summary will be placed in the case file and made available to the respondent. Any determination of responsibility will generally be immediately followed by a supplemental proceeding in which any party to the case may submit evidence or make statements concerning the appropriate sanction to be imposed. The KAUST Disciplinary Committee shall then retire to closed deliberations to determine a recommended sanction. Recommendations shall be by majority vote and each board member shall vote and may not abstain. Once the recommendation has been made, it will be forward to the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs for final review and deliberation, taking into account all the facts of the case as well as all the recommendations made by the Student Handbook Page 35 KAUST Disciplinary Committee. The Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs will make the final decision concerning sanctions against the accused. The accused will be called into the office of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs and be apprised of any judgment made. The judgment of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs will be final. A tape recording of the hearing, but not the closed deliberations of the KAUST Disciplinary Committee, shall ordinarily be made and shall be preserved in the custody of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs as a part of the case proceedings. • Sanctions – Depending on the seriousness of the violation (whether Class A or Class B, or evidence of habitual behavior in Class C violations), the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs shall impose sanctions commensurate with the violation(s) that occurred. In determining the sanctions to be imposed, the KAUST Disciplinary Committee and the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs should take into account any mitigating circumstances and any aggravating factors including, but not limited to, any provocation by the subject of the conduct that constituted the violation, any past misconduct by the student, any failure of the student to comply fully with previous sanctions, the actual and potential harm caused by the violation, the degree of intent and motivation of the student in committing the violation, and the severity and pervasiveness of the conduct that constituted the violation. • Disciplinary Conferences – In violations that have been determined to fall within Class C, a Disciplinary Conference will be held to determine the specific penalty of such violations. A Disciplinary Conference is an informal, non‐adversarial hearing usually conducted between the respondent and the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs. Complainants would not be required to participate in the Disciplinary Conference, unless cross‐examination was necessary to resolve any factual issues. Procedures for the conduct of Disciplinary Conference include the following: o Written notice of charges at least five (5) working days prior to the scheduled Disciplinary Conference. o Reasonable access to the case file prior to and during the Disciplinary Conference. o An opportunity to respond to the evidence against him or her and to call appropriate witnesses on his or her behalf. o The right to be accompanied by an attorney or campus advisor. The attorney or advisor may only offer advice to the student and not act on his or her behalf. A tape recording of the Disciplinary Conference shall ordinarily be made and shall be preserved in the custody of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs. Class C violations will generally be handled in the following manner: First Offense: A verbal warning with a written record kept of the warning in the student's file. Student Handbook Page 36 Second Offense: A written warning with the rule reviewed and a statement signed by both the student and instructor stating that the rule is understood and will be followed. Third Offense: The student will decide whether he or she will sign an agreement to consistently adhere to the rules and procedures from that point forward. Should the student refuse to sign the agreement, a temporary restriction from attending class or lab until a disciplinary conference is held with the student, faculty member, safety committee chairperson and laboratory manager (if the offence has taken place in the laboratory), the student will be referred to the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs for formal KAUST disciplinary action. If the agreement is signed, and the student persists in committing the offense, the student will be referred to the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs for formal disciplinary action and/or expulsion. • Appeals ‐ Should the student be found guilty of a disciplinary offense and wish to appeal a ruling of the KAUST Disciplinary Committee or the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs, he or she may do so if any of the following has taken place: o Procedural errors o Misapplication or misinterpretation of the rule alleged to have been violated o Discovery of substantial new facts that were unavailable at the time of the hearing o Findings of facts not supported by a preponderance of evidence o Disproportionate sanctions The appeal must be submitted to the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs no more than ten (10) working days after the findings and sanctions have been announced. Failure to appeal within the allotted time will render the original decision of the KAUST Disciplinary Committee final and conclusive. Upon the receipt of the appeal, the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs shall notify the Appeals Committee and convene a review. The Appeals Committee shall be composed of: 1) one faculty member; 2) one administrative member (from the Office Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs); and 3) three students. The Appeals Committee shall have been trained in campus adjudication procedures and determine if any of the requirements for appeal have been satisfied. If the requirements have been met for an appeal as outlined in this document, the Appeals Committee will recommend to the KAUST Disciplinary Committee that the case be reheard; if they have not, the appeal will be denied and appropriate sanctions applied, as prescribed in the initial determination of sanctions held by the KAUST Disciplinary Committee. The Appeals Committee will generally be expected to submit its decision to the KAUST Disciplinary Committee, the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs and mail/email notice of its decision to the respondent within fifteen (15) working days of the filing of the appeal by the respondent. Within ten (10) working days of the decision of the Appeals Committee, the respondent may petition the President of KAUST, in writing, to review the finding and/or sanction. Student Handbook Page 37 The decision to review or not to review shall be solely within the discretion of the President. The outcome of this appeal may result in higher, lower, identical, or no sanctions at all being imposed. The KAUST Disciplinary Committee decision shall be final. At the discretion of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs, the imposition of sanctions will normally be deferred during any appellate proceedings and the status of a student shall not change until the avenues of appeal described have been exhausted, except that a hold may be put on a student's transcript and no degree will be awarded to the student pending completion of the appeals process. Once these avenues have been exhausted, or when a respondent elects to forego further appeal, it shall be the responsibility of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs to oversee the implementation of the imposed sanction. OVERSIGHT AND RECORD‐KEEPING OF JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS KAUST Disciplinary Committee The KAUST Disciplinary Committee is composed of the 1) Chairperson; 2) Two faculty members; 3) Housing Officer (if the violation occurred in KAUST housing); 4) Two students; 5) A representative of the University Counsel's Office (ex‐officio); 6) A representative from the Office of the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs (ex‐officio). While the disciplinary hearings will require only five (five) voting members, there will be more faculty and students solicited for membership to assure that disciplinary hearings will always take place in a timely manner. Record‐Keeping of All Judicial Proceedings and Disciplinary Conferences The Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs shall keep written transcripts and/or tape recordings of any judicial hearings or disciplinary conferences. Written records of any case deliberations will also be kept by this office (in paper and/or on appropriate computer files), with paper or computer file copies placed in each student's permanent record file. These records will be made available in the investigation of any subsequent violations. Enforcement of Sanctions The Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs is responsible for implementing and enforcing all resolutions reached by the KAUST Disciplinary Committee. HOUSING POLICIES Visitors Visitors or guests to KAUST should follow the visitor control procedure available at the designated security gates. A 'host' is fully responsible for a visitor's conduct during stay at KAUST. Security recommends requests for business and personal visitors are submitted one day prior to arrival. Student Handbook Page 38 Information required by Visitor Office: Before contacting Visitor Office, please have the following information: Personal Visitor: 1) Visitor Name. 2) Government ID number, type and validity. 3) Nationality. 4) Host KAUST ID number. 5) Host name 6) Host home address and home phone number. 7) Duration visit (1‐day, 2‐days or 3‐days). Business Visitor: 1) Visitor Name. 2) Government ID number, type and validity. 3) Nationality. 4) Host's name and KAUST ID number. 5) Organization Code and Name. 7) Host's office location and phone number. 8) Visit duration (1‐day, 2‐day or 3‐day). Personal Visitors ‐ Short‐Term: The host should contact the Visitor Center before the visit, to inform Visitor Center staff of arrival arrangements and provide information in respect to the visitor and vehicle (if appropriate). The visitor shall present a valid Government ID to Visitor Center Staff. For unannounced visitor cases, Visitor Center staff will contact the host to confirm the visit and the host's details. After confirmation, a visitor's slip will be issued and the visitor's proof of identity will be retained until departure when it shall be returned. For a long‐term visit, the host should submit a KS001 form to Human Resources or Student Affair for approval after which the ID office will then issue a visitor's ID card. Business Visitors ‐ Short‐Term: Each department should send a letter to Security with a list detailing one or more visitors and stipulating from which organization. The letter should contain details of the applicant's name, KAUST ID number, office location, telephone, organization code and name. The letter should be approved by the department or a designated individual. Before or upon visitor arrival, the Visitor Center will contact the host department representative to confirm the visit, and get any additional/necessary details from the host. The Temporary Access Request period should not exceed three (3) days. A valid Government ID is required in order to assign a temporary visitor ID card to a Business Visitor. Business Visitors ‐ Long‐Term: The proponent organization shall complete and approve a KS001 ID form for Business Visitor. Indicate on the form any previously issued KAUST ID number. Business visitor should visit ID office with approved KS001 form and a valid Government ID to receive a new Business Visitor ID card. Student Handbook Page 39 Special Needs (Disability) Students who require assistance regarding their housing should declare their special needs to Graduate Affairs to enable the University to assess whether it can reasonably accommodate their requirements. Furniture and Appliances KAUST provides fully furnished housing units including basic appliances (refrigerator, stove/oven, washing machine, dryer and television). The furniture of the assigned‐housing units is of high quality and should not normally be considered for replacement for at least five (5) years. Satellite TV signals from multiple free‐to‐air channels and some commercial subscription packages will be available to residences through the IPTV system. Property Damage • 50% of the repair costs with a maximum amount of ten thousand Saudi Riyals (SR 10,000) will be charged if there is negligence of care for KAUST property. • 100% of repair cost will be charged in cases of willful damage, deliberate destruction, or unauthorized alterations of property. Park boats, automobiles, motorcycles and related equipment only in areas designated for parking. Maintenance KAUST provides the following housing repairs without charge: Electrical; air conditioning; plumbing; structural; roofing; exterior painting; masonry; telephone; KAUST‐owned appliances. Unauthorized Housing Occupancy Housing is for the exclusive use of assigned occupants. Students are not allowed to reassign, lease or rent quarters to others or to allow occupancy of unregistered people. Unauthorized occupants may be immediately evicted and disciplinary action for any unauthorized use of housing may be taken. Moreover, occupants are not allowed to conduct any commercial business in their assigned housing. Caretaker Students of KAUST quarters may assign a caretaker for security and maintenance purposes during their temporary absence on vacation or business assignments. Students may arrange for a caretaker to temporarily reside in their assigned housing provided the person nominated is authorized to live on campus. Relinquishment of Housing Students who have graduated should vacate their assigned housing by the end of the month following their graduation. Students who have withdrawn or who have been dismissed should vacate their housing no later than the end of the month in which they have withdrawn or have Student Handbook Page 40 been dismissed. Additional time may be granted with the approval of the Manager of Residential Services. Divorce/Legal Separation/Permanent or Extended Family Departure/Death of Spouse: Students may retain a family housing unit for a maximum of 120 days following the spouse's departure date in the event of divorce, legal separation, permanent or extended family departure or death of a spouse. An additional period beyond the 120 days may be granted upon the recommendation of functional head and the approval of the Director of Community Services. Fire and Life Safety Inspections KAUST officials, through Graduate Affairs, may conduct inspections of student housing for reasons of fire and life safety. The intent of these inspections is to increase the level of safety and safety awareness for all occupants of the residence halls. Inspections may include individual apartments as well as staff offices, common areas, and mechanical rooms in apartment buildings. Inspections will be conducted with multiple staff members; staff will not enter an apartment alone. Fire and life safety will be the primary focus of the inspection. Issues of concern may include: electrical safety; fire alarm equipment; and emergency exit accessibility. Check‐In Process Incoming students should anticipate receiving check‐in procedures in the weeks prior to their arrival to campus. Checkout Process Students are expected to ensure that they complete all checkout processes upon vacating an apartment for any reason, including for reassignment, graduation, or withdrawal from the University. Checkout processes include inventory and condition of apartment; return of keys; and completion and submission of pertinent documents. Graduate Student Housing Assignments and Changes Students are expected to reside in their assigned housing assignment; students may not change housing assignments without prior approval by Housing. Room Entry/Room Search The University recognizes residents' desire for privacy, and will do all it can to protect and guarantee their privacy. However, the University, through Graduate Affairs staff, reserves the right to enter a resident's apartment, townhouse, or room at any time for the following purposes: 1. To determine compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations. 2. To provide cleaning and/or pest control. 3. To conduct an inventory of University property. 4. There is an indication of imminent danger to life, health, and/or property. 5. There is a reasonable cause to believe that a violation of University or Housing Regulations has occurred. Student Handbook Page 41 6. To search for missing property. Pets on Campus Pets are not allowed in University buildings, multi‐story apartment buildings, any indoor community facility, and in playgrounds and designated parks. Pets brought on campus must be managed in a way that is not a risk or nuisance to the University and its community members. Students must satisfy all health and regular immunization requirements for their pets. If a community member is advised that a pet causes health problems or safety concerns, the pet will be removed from University property. KAUST permits pets such as birds, cats, and dogs to reside on campus; no other animals are permitted. The maximum number of pets permitted is two per household. Individuals are responsible for the removal of waste produced by their pets. Veterinary Services: Appointments 054 548 9133 Other Inquiries 056 290 0005 Harassment Policy General ‐ KAUST is committed to creating an environment in which every individual can work and live in safety and dignity. Harassment is prohibited both in the workplace and in the KAUST community, including social activities sponsored by the University. Harassment is any conduct, verbal or physical, that has the intent or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual or group's educational or work performance at KAUST or that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational, work, or living environment. Sexual harassment is defined as behavior that may be perceived as unwelcome, uncomfortable or invasive of privacy. This includes sexual advances, request for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment may also consist of unwanted physical contact, visual displays of degrading sexual images, sexually suggestive conduct, or offensive remarks of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment may take many forms and may occur between individuals of the opposite or same sex. VIOLATIONS ‐ Any violations of the harassment policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of enrollment and/or employment. KAUST will not condone any harassment of faculty, staff, and/or student by any personnel or vendor or other business entity whose relationship to personnel is through the business of KAUST. The University procedures protect the rights and privacy of both complainant and respondent and prevent supervisory reprisal. Any member of the KAUST community who feels that harassment has occurred is encouraged to seek immediate assistance and resolution of the complaint. Support and counseling will be provided to affected parties as appropriate. Equal Opportunity in Education and Employment Policy Introduction The University believes that commitment to principles of fairness and respect for all helps to create a climate that is favorable to the free and open exchange of ideas, and the University seeks to reach out as widely as possible in order to attract and retain the best faculty, staff and students. For these reasons, decisions concerning admission of students, as well as employment of personnel in all University departments and offices, are made on the basis of an Student Handbook Page 42 individual's qualifications to contribute to meeting KAUST's educational objectives and its institutional goals. Scope This policy applies to all KAUST faculty, staff, and students. Equal opportunities extend to all educational and employment related activities, including the admission of students; the award of scholarships and research funding; and the appointments of faculty and staff including their hiring, transfers, promotions, training, terminations, working conditions, compensation, benefits and other terms and conditions. KAUST considers discrimination in any form to be a serious offense. Definition For the purpose of this policy, the term discrimination means any distinction, exclusion or preference made on the basis of race, color, religion or gender that has the effect of nullifying or impairing equality of opportunity or treatment in admission of students or the employment and retention of personnel. Policy Statements KAUST is committed to provide equality of opportunity in education and employment. Accordingly, KAUST does not practice or condone discrimination against students, personnel or applicants. All activities of the University that are related to students, personnel, or applicants should be conducted without discrimination. Retaliation against any person complaining of discrimination is in violation of this policy and is prohibited. If it is found that discrimination or retaliation has occurred, appropriate corrective action will be taken including disciplinary action, up to and including possible termination. KAUST will respond promptly to all complaints of discrimination and retaliation. KAUST affirms its desire to maintain an academic and work environment that is free from discrimination and to support and reward individuals on the basis of such relevant factors as ability, merit and performance. Violations of the Equal Opportunity in Education and Employment Policy Complaints concerning alleged violations of this policy should be directed to the Office of the Provost (with regard to complaints against students or faculty) or to the Office of the Executive Vice President for Administration and Finance (with regard to complaints against staff, administrators, officers or other members of the University community who are not students or faculty). Personnel and students are encouraged to report any observed incident of discrimination before it becomes severe or pervasive. Reports will be investigated impartially, and appropriate corrective action will be taken, including discipline, for inappropriate conduct. Complaints will be handled confidentially, except as necessary for investigation and resolution. Frivolous complaints may result in disciplinary action against those making false or misleading accusations against others. Student Handbook Page 43 Role of the President The President of the University is the final arbitrator regarding the disposition of claims of discrimination under the terms of this policy and is responsible to the Board of Trustees for his actions as President of the University. Section 5– Graduate Student Resources Offices and Resources Frequently Contacted by Graduate Students: Help Desk: 959 (02) 808‐0959: Includes general maintenance and housekeeping needs as well transportation services in addition to serving as a resource for other campus contact information. Information Technology (I.T.) Help Desk: 910 (02) 808‐0910 Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs: Dr. Brian Moran email@example.com Director of Development and Support, and Campus Life: Dr. Faizi Ghodsi, Building 18, Room 4225 808‐3435 firstname.lastname@example.com Registrar: David Micus, Building 9, Room 3330, 808‐3029 email@example.com Graduate Council: Building 18, Room 2245, firstname.lastname@example.com Medical and Dental Clinic Appointments 808‐4111 Recreation Harbor Recreation 808‐6613/6614/6615 Bowling: 808‐6632 Island Oasis Recreation (located in the Early Childhood Center) 808‐6206 Marine Services: firstname.lastname@example.com firstname.lastname@example.com Dining and Retail: Banaweer Bicycle Shop 802‐4068 Burger King 802‐4032 Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf 802‐4065 Dunya Alasfour Barber Shop 802‐4062/4064 Dunya Alasfour Ladies Salon 802‐4061/4063 House of Donuts 802‐4071 Joffrey's Coffee & Tea Co. 802‐4069 Pizza Inn 802‐4035 Quiznos Sub Shop 802‐4034 Student Handbook Page 44 Saud Pharmacy 802‐4066 Shoro Shwarma As You Like It 802‐4036 Spices Indian Restaurant 802‐4031 Tihama Bookstore, Discovery Square, 802‐4067 Tihama Bookstore, Building 18, Room 3202, 802‐4072 Telephone information The following information is provided to assist people in making phone calls to Saudi Arabian phone numbers. Calling landlines: From inside the Kingdom, dial: • the pertinent two‐digit code: o 01 = Riyadh; 02 = Jeddah; 03 = Eastern Province • followed by a seven‐digit number • for a total of a nine‐digit number From outside the Kingdom, dial: • + 966 • followed by 1, 2, or 3 (depending upon whether you're calling Riyadh, Jeddah, or the Eastern Province, respectively) • followed by a seven‐digit number • for a total of an eleven‐digit number Calling mobile phones: From inside the Kingdom, dial: • 05 • followed by an eight‐digit number From outside the Kingdom, dial: • +966 • followed by 5 • followed by an eight digit number General Information Regarding Travel • Validity of Documents: Ensure you travel with a current Iqama and that it is valid throughout the duration of your trip • Employment: Be aware that your visa status (student visa) makes you ineligible to work, both at KAUST and throughout the Kingdom. Do not seek any kind of employment at any time or under any circumstances.(this needs to be reviewed in regards to working on campus) • Avoid visiting questionable areas (i.e., military camps or highly secured locations) • Heed the advice of your consulate or embassy o Register your international travel through your embassy Student Handbook Page 45 o Sign up for embassy travel advisories (sent via email) • Stay informed of international current events • Educate yourself about travel destinations, including: o Health, safety and security Required or recommended vaccinations and medications o Laws and customs o Relationship between your home country and the host country • Do not travel alone • Inform others of your itinerary and provide emergency contact numbers • Carrying Documents o Carry a copy of your passport and KAUST ID at all times • Call for help: Program your mobile with the Government Affairs on‐call phone, found on the back of your KAUST ID: 02‐808‐0911 Student Handbook Page 46
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