Student Handbook

Letter from the Vice President, Division of Student Affairs

Welcome to the University of West Florida!

There's something big happening at UWF this year, and you get to be part of it. As we step into Division I athletics, you are joining as members of the D1 First Class! That's something extra special at UWF, and it's not something to miss out on.

That's why my challenge to you is simple: Ar​G​o All In. Your first six weeks on campus will shape the rest of your time here more than you realize. This is the window to find your people, discover your resources, and start building the habits that carry you through graduation. Don't wait to get involved. Go all in now, because this class, this moment, only comes around once.

The Student Handbook is your guide to making that happen well. It lays out the policies, expectations, and support systems that protect you and the campus community we all share. Please take the time to read through it.

A few ways to go all in from day one:

Ask for help early and often. The Dean of Students Office is there when life gets hard and you need help getting back on track. Their friendly staff are dedicated to a culture of care, with access to basic needs resources and the know-how to guide you when you're not sure where else to turn. If you are a Housing and Residence Life student living on campus, your RA is a resource right in your hall. As a fellow student, they know firsthand what you'll need and can connect you with the right people on campus. The Student Ombuds offers a confidential space to work through a university concern or grievance.

Get engaged. Student Engagement hosts the events, traditions, student organizations and programs that turn a campus into a community, including offering plenty of chances to cheer on our Argos as they take on D1 competition for the very first time. I'd also encourage you to explore Career Development and Community Engagement and the Office of Global Engagement. These areas offer high-impact practices such as internships and study abroad that don't just enrich your college experience, they prepare you for the workforce that awaits beyond it.

Take care of yourself. Your wellbeing is the foundation everything else is built on. Recreation and Aquatics, Student Health Services, and Counseling and Psychological Services are here so you can show up as your best self in everything that you do.

I can't wait to see how you ride this next wave, with the friendships you'll make, the discoveries you'll find, and the person you'll grow into along the way. Welcome to Argo Nation, and welcome to the D1 First Class. You are making history at UWF.

Go Argos!

Table of Contents

I. Introduction

• Our Mission, President's Vision and Values
• Academic Calendar

II. Student Rights and Responsibilities

• UWF Honor Code
• Student Educational Records
• Classroom Behavior
• Use of Instructional Space and Resources
• Student Code of Conduct
• Student Code of Academic Conduct
• Sexual Harassment and Misconduct
• Prohibition of Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation
• Prohibition of Hazing
• Civil Discourse

III. Related UWF Policies and Regulations

• Medical Immunity
• Parental/Guardian Notification Policy
• Religious Observances
• Weapons on University Property
• Skateboards and Similar Devices
• Housing and Residence Life Standards of Community Living
• Student Communications Policy
• Fundraising and Solicitation
• Grade Forgiveness and Repeat Courses

IV. Appeals and Student Grievance Processes

• Student Grievance Process Policy
• UWF Student Omubdsperson
• University Complaints to External Agencies

V. Housing and Residence Life Handbook

• Standards of Community Living
• Roommate Agreement
• Residence Community Staff
• Supporting Areas
• Terminology
• Housing and Residence Life Policies
• Community Standards and Conduct
• Facilities and Maintenance
• Health, Safety and Security
• Housing Operations
• Keys and Lockouts
• Prohibited Items

VI. Health and Wellbeing

• Tobacco-Free Campus Policy
• Alcoholic Beverages on Campus Property
• Drugs
• HIV/AIDS

VII. Student Engagement

• Student Organizations
• Argo Pulse
• Student Leader Eligibility Requirements

VIII. Resources

• Student Accessibility Resources
• Title IX
• Statewide Articulation Agreements
• Consumer Information
• Voter Registration Requirements
• Campus Safety and Security