Academic Expectations

Satisfactory Academic Standing

The GSBS provides students an environment with a wealth of opportunities to develop and enhance their scientific interest and to prepare students to pursue careers in biomedical research and related fields; therefore, expectations and guidelines must be outlined by which students abide. To ensure understanding of the academic performance standards set forth by the GSBS, students are required to:

  • Maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher.
  • Dedicate sufficient time to prepare for class, exams, and any other academic activity required by the GSBS.
  • Display appropriate ethical behavior in accordance with the standards of a developing professional at all times, in particular relating to the scientific research community.
  • Commit to embracing a safe and healthy environment through compliance with applicable federal, state, and local rules and regulations.
  • Comply fully with the policies of the TTUHSC El Paso and the GSBS.
  • Be responsible for the conduct exhibit from the time of admission through the actual awarding of a degree, even though conduct may occur outside the institution.
  • Avoid academic misconduct by engaging in any activity, including but not limited to, cheating, plagiarism, falsifying academic records, misrepresenting facts, or any act designed to give unfair academic advantage to the student, or the attempt to commit such an act.

Learning Environment

The GSBS is committed to provide an environment that fosters freedom of discussion, inquiry, and expression.

Disruptive Behavior

Disruptive behavior, as defined by the GSBS, refers to inappropriate behavior that interferes with the functioning of the institution, faculty’s ability to lecture, or students’ learning. Such behavior includes, but is not limited to:

  • Disruptive tardiness.
  • Excessive disruptive behavior during classes.
  • Misuse of electronic devices, such as laptops, cellphones, or iPads, during class for activities not related to the course.
  • Inappropriate behavior in online discussion boards, emails, or any other online educational technology.
  • Recording lectures.

Consequences of Disruptive Behavior

Continued disruptive behavior after being notified may result in removal from the class at the faculty’s discretion. Disruptive behavior may be referred to the dean by faculty and/or other students. The dean, as the chief academic officer, reserves the right to place a student in academic probation or dismissal.

The use of electronic devices during class is a privilege and not a right. Therefore, faculty may withdraw such privileges on a case-by-case basis if students repeatedly engage in disruptive behavior.

Email

The TTUHSC El Paso Information Technology department issues and administers official ttuhsc.edu email addresses for students, faculty, and staff. Academic correspondence, notifications, and school announcements must be sent through ttuhsc.edu email addresses. Students are responsible for monitoring and replying to any official requests and/or correspondence.

Canvas

Canvas is the TTUHSC El Paso online course management system. The GSBS uses Canvas to organize course material and assignments; therefore, it is the students’ responsibility to constantly check Canvas for any update or material available.

ExamSoft

The GSBS uses ExamSoft as the software to deliver assessments. Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with the software and downloading course assessments in a promptly manner. Information about ExamSoft and other IT resources can be found in CANVAS.

Identification/Access Badges

Students are issued an official TTUHSC El Paso identification badge. Students are required to wear it in a clear and visible manner at all times while on any TTUHSC El Paso campus. If lost the GSBS must be notified immediately and a replacement will be issued. Unauthorized use of a badge may be considered grounds for disciplinary action. An identification badge may neither be altered, disfigured, nor display any items that are not part of the original badge.

Participation in Course Evaluations and Faculty Evaluations

In an effort to promote continuous improvement, students are encouraged to participate in course evaluations and faculty evaluations at the end of each semester. In addition, graduates complete an alumni survey approximately six to 12 months after completion of an academic program.