Academic Expectations

Satisfactory Academic Standing

The FGSBS provides students an environment with a wealth of opportunities to develop and enhance their scientific interest and prepare them 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 FGSBS, students are required to:

• Maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher.
• Dedicate sufficient time to prepare for class, exams, or any other academic activity required by the FGSBS.
• 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 policies and procedures of the TTUHSC El Paso and the FGSBS.
• 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 FGSBS is committed to provide an environment that fosters freedom of discussion, inquiry, and expression.

Disruptive Behavior

As defined by the FGSBS, disruptive behavior 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 to classroom proceedings or examinations.
• Misuse of electronic devices during class for activities not related to the course, such as but not limited to laptops, cellphones, or iPads.
• 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 classroom at the faculty’s discretion. Disruptive behavior may be referred to the dean by faculty, staff, 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.
• Students are expected to arrive on time to each exam. If a student arrives late, testing time will not be extended.

TTUHSC El Paso Email

The TTUHSC El Paso Information Technology department issues and administers the official ttuhsc.edu email addresses for students, faculty, and staff. Academic correspondence, notifications, and school announcements must be sent through the ttuhsc.edu email addresses. Communication through personal email occurs only before admission to the FGSBS or in unforeseen cases. Students are responsible for monitoring and replying to any official requests and/or correspondence.

Laptops

Majority of the FGSBS courses require the use of a laptop; therefore, it is strongly recommended that all incoming students possess and maintain a laptop computer that meets the technical specifications of TTUHSC El Paso. For further information about technical specifications, students should contact the IT Help Desk at 915-215-4111 or ELP.HelpDesk@ttuhsc.edu.

The following are the main systems the FGSBS students use:

1. Canvas
   Canvas is the TTUHSC El Paso online course management system. The FGSBS uses Canvas to organize course material and assignments; therefore, it is the students’ responsibility to constantly check Canvas for any update or material available.
2. ExamSoft
   ExamSoft is the software the FGSBS uses to deliver course assessments. Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with the software and downloading course assessments in a promptly manner.

Identification and Access Badges

Students are issued an official TTUHSC El Paso identification badge. Students are expected to wear their identification badge in a clear and visible manner at all times while on the TTUHSC El Paso campus and buildings. If lost, the FGSBS must be notified immediately and a replacement will be issued. Unauthorized use of the identification 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 and Faculty Evaluations

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