Center for Research on Learning and Teaching (CRLT) -- University  of Michigan

Information for Students Regarding Religious-Academic Conflicts

Provost Teresa A. Sullivan
University of Michigan

Although the University of Michigan, as an institution, does not observe religious holidays, it has long been the University's policy that every reasonable effort should be made to help students avoid negative academic consequences when their religious obligations conflict with academic requirements. Absence from classes or examinations for religious reasons does not relieve students from responsibility for any part of the course work required during the period of absence. Students who expect to miss classes, examinations, or other assignments as a consequence of their religious observance shall be provided with a reasonable alternative opportunity to complete such academic responsibilities. It is the obligation of students to provide faculty with reasonable notice of the dates of religious holidays on which they will be absent. Such notice must be given by the drop/add deadline of the given term. Students who are absent on days of examinations or class assignments shall be offered an opportunity to make up the work, without penalty, unless it can be demonstrated that a make-up opportunity would interfere unreasonably with the delivery of the course. Should disagreement arise over any aspect of this policy, the parties involved should contact the Department Chair, the Dean of the School, or the Ombudsperson. Final appeals will be resolved by the Provost.

RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS
Among the religious holidays that might pose conflicts with the 2007-08 academic calendar are:

*Jewish holy days begin at sundown of the previous day and end at sundown of the last date given.
**These holidays are calculated on a lunar calendar and are approximate.

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