Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine

This Catalog is designed to serve as a guide to the rules, policies, and services of the Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine's graduate programs; therefore, it is not intended to establish a contract, and the University reserves the right to amend, modify, or change regulations, policies, and financial charges stated in this handbook throughout the year. In such a case, the University will make reasonable efforts to notify the University community of any changes in policies and regulations in a timely manner. Notification shall be made via MyLMU, the University website, or to University-issued email accounts as deemed appropriate. Any rules, regulations, policies, procedures, or other representations made herein may be interpreted and applied by the Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine (LMU-CVM) to promote fairness and academic excellence, based on the circumstances of each individual situation.

This Catalog represents a program of the current curricula, educational plans, offerings, and requirements of the LMU-CVM graduate programs. The College reserves the right to change any provisions, offerings, tuition, fees, or requirements at any time within the student's period of study at the LMU-CVM.

Policies and procedures, including disciplinary actions, for LMU-CVM graduate programs are detailed at length within the Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine Student Handbook.

Effective through July 31, 2025.

Oaths, Ethics, and Honor Code

LMU-CVM Student Ethics and Honor Code

Establishing and maintaining the highest concepts of honor and personal integrity during veterinary education are critical to our training as veterinary health professionals. It is our responsibility to actively support these standards throughout our tenure at Lincoln Memorial University – Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine (LMU-CVM) and it is reasonable to expect our fellow students to do the same.

These standards include respect for patients, faculty, staff, fellow students, hospital personnel, community, self, proper documentation, laws, policies, regulations, and academic standards. I hereby accept the LMU-CVM Student Ethics and Honor Code, realizing that it is my duty to uphold the Code and the concepts of personal and collective responsibility upon which it is based.

Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine Administration

Stacy Anderson, DVM, MVSc, Ph.D., DACVS-LA | Executive Dean of LMU-CVM (Dean)

Elizabeth Devine, DVM, MS, DACVS-LA | Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Admissions (ADSAA)

Randall Evans, DVM | Associate Dean of Career Services and Professional Development (ADCPD)

Julie Hunt, DVM, MS | Associate Dean of Clinical Services (ADCS)

Christopher Kelly, DVM, MS | Medical Director, DeBusk Veterinary Teaching Center

Jay Miles, DVM | Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Programs

Mitchell Moses, DVM, MBA | Associate Dean of Clinical Relations and Outreach (ADCRO)

Ashutosh Verma, DVM, Ph.D., DACVM | Associate Dean of Basic Sciences and Research (ADBSR)

Mission Statements

LMU-CVM Mission Statement

The mission of Lincoln Memorial University-Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine is to prepare veterinary professionals who are committed to the premise that the cornerstone of meaningful existence is service to attain optimal health for people, animals, and our environment within the Appalachian region and beyond. The mission is achieved by:

Investing in quality academic programs supported by excellent faculty, facilities, technology, and partnerships;
Serving the health and wellness needs of all animal species within the Appalachian region and beyond with an emphasis on One Health;
Providing quality research opportunities for students and faculty in animal health, One Health, and veterinary education;
Providing a values-based learning community as the context for teaching, research, and service;
Promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging by actively addressing systemic barriers, fostering a sense of belonging, and cultivating an environment where all individuals thrive and reach their full potential.

Master of Veterinary Biomedical Science (VBMS) Program Mission Statement

The mission of the Veterinary Biomedical Science (VBMS) program at Lincoln Memorial University is to provide advanced academic learning in the life sciences through graduate coursework, professional training, and research with the aim to prepare graduates for veterinary medicine programs, advanced biomedical training, or entry into the biomedical field. The mission is achieved by:

Graduating students with a Master of Science in Veterinary Biomedical Science degree;
Enhancing the learning of graduate students in content knowledge of cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, and organismal biology;
Promoting ethical and regulatory guidelines in animal biomedical research and clinical care.

Master of Veterinary Education (MVEd) Program Mission Statement

The mission of the Master of Veterinary Education (MVEd) program at Lincoln Memorial University is to enhance veterinary student learning by increasing instructional effectiveness of the faculty who teach them.  The mission is achieved by: 

Graduating students with a Master of Veterinary Education degree;
Introducing students to the theories of learning and teaching and encouraging their development of a personal teaching philosophy as a foundation for a career in education;
Providing students with the knowledge and tools used in the education profession to effectively present content, assess student learning, and provide educational leadership among their peers.

Master of Veterinary Clinical Care (MVCC) Program Mission Statement

The mission of the Master of Veterinary Clinical Care (MVCC) program at Lincoln Memorial University is to provide advanced academic learning in veterinary technology through graduate coursework to prepare graduates for advanced veterinary nursing careers. The mission is achieved by:

Graduating students with a Master of Veterinary Clinical Care degree;
Enhancing the learning of graduate students in content knowledge of veterinary nursing and technology to advance patient care and extend care of the veterinary health care team.

Campus Facilities and Departments

LMU Facilities

The 1,000-acre LMU campus--its grounds, buildings, equipment, and human resources--is one of the most strikingly beautiful and functional in the country. Located in a rural setting just 55 miles north of Knoxville, Tennessee, the campus is a visual treat under dynamic, experienced administrative leadership and a committed, well-prepared faculty. LMU has an atmosphere of openness and concern for the needs of each individual and sets a premium on creating the best conditions for learning.

LMU-CVM Facilities

The LMU-CVM primarily operates from two locations: the College of Veterinary Medicine building, located on the main campus in Harrogate, TN; and the DeBusk Veterinary Teaching Center (DVTC), located in nearby Ewing, VA. Normal operating hours across both campuses are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Students should always have their student ID/swipe card visible above the waist. All students, faculty, and staff vehicles must be registered with the University Office of Student Services during the completion of academic registration.

College of Veterinary Medicine Building (CVM)

Located on LMU's main campus in Harrogate, TN, the CVM building includes two large lecture halls, each of which seats over 250 people per hall, and can be combined to accommodate over 500 people. The building also has 24 state-of-the-art communications laboratories, simulation laboratories, basic and clinical sciences classrooms, numerous study rooms, student break areas, faculty offices, student and academic services offices, clinical relations and outreach offices, and the Dean's suite. The building includes numerous smaller spaces, designed with the flexibility to accommodate small group/active learning, wellness activities, and student club events. The CVM building is available to faculty, staff, and students during normal business hours or anytime through ID/Swipe access. After normal business hours or 6:00 pm, students will need their ID/Swipe card to enter and remain in the building. No guests are allowed in the building. The CVM building can be reached at 423.869.6600..

DeBusk Veterinary Teaching Center (DVTC)

The DVTC, located in Ewing, VA, includes 10,000 square feet of facilities designed for teaching veterinary sciences, specifically designed for education, research, and service in veterinary medicine. It is used for large animal (food animal and equine) and small animal (canine, feline, exotics) core clinical skills instruction, including safe animal handling. The DVTC can be reached at 423.869.6535. The DVTC Policies and Procedures offer guidance on this facility; refer to the CVM Student Handbook for more information.

LMU-CVM Graduate Programs Admissions

Admission Requirements

Policies will follow existing LMU policies for undergraduate and/or master's degree programs, with any differences for these degree programs noted in this catalog. Each applicant is evaluated holistically by considering each required element of the application package. Application for each of the graduate programs begins with the required application materials:

Complete the PostbacCAS application
- Official transcripts for all institutions attended
- Letters of recommendation
- Essays as required
- Application fee (PostbacCAS fee + LMU Application fee)

Each program has additional materials required:

VBMS: Proof of prerequisite course completion
MVCC: Full CV, proof of prerequisite course completion, proof of Veterinary Technician Credentials (LVT, LVMT, RVT, CVT, etc.)
MVEd: Full CV, proof of DVM or four-year degree in a veterinary-related field
CVEd: Full CV, proof of DVM or four-year degree in a veterinary-related field with credentials, OR two-year degree, credentials, and proof of a minimum of 5 years experience in an accredited veterinary education setting

When reviewing application files, the committee looks at numerous applicant criteria including undergraduate and graduate coursework, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and any other pertinent materials that may be included with the file. Upon acceptance into the graduate program, applicants will receive an official packet of materials including an acceptance letter and any other items that may be deemed necessary. Deadlines regarding program deposits, residential life, immunization records, etc. will be included in the acceptance packet.

Program-specific admissions requirements, policies, and procedures are noted in the individual programs' entries within this Graduate Catalog.

Matriculation Process

Seat Deposit

Upon each accepted applicant’s admission decision notification, a $250.00 non-refundable seat deposit will be assigned to the student’s MyLMU account. This deposit will be applied to the cost of the student’s tuition for the semester. Seat deposits must be paid by July 10, 2024, for the 2024 Fall semester; students can pay the seat deposit via their MyLMU account. Information on how to access the student’s email address and log into MyLMU are included with the acceptance packet.

For the 2025 Spring semester, the seat deposit must be paid by December 13, 2024.

Confirmation of Attendance Form

In addition to the seat deposit, each accepted applicant must complete and sign a program-specific “Confirmation of Attendance” form, which serves as the applicant’s commitment to attend the LMU-CVM graduate program to which they applied and were accepted. The Confirmation of Attendance form is due July 10, 2024, for the 2024 Fall semester; for the 2025 Spring semester, the Confirmation of Attendance form must be returned by December 13, 2024.

LMU-CVM reserves the right to revoke an offer of admission from an applicant who fails to return their Confirmation of Attendance form by the posted deadline. Any accepted applicant who paid a seat deposit but failed to submit their Confirmation of Attendance form by the deadline forfeits the seat deposit in the event the admission offer is revoked.

Transfer Credit Policy

Accepted applicants to the MVCC and VBMS programs may request to transfer up to six (6) relevant graduate credit hours. Students must request the transfer of credits before the first day of classes in the student’s first semester in their program of study.

All transfer credit requests are subject to committee approval, either by the program’s admissions committee or the Graduate Council.

Tuition and Fees

LMU-CVM graduate programs are billed per credit hour, not including additional university fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change and are determined by LMU main campus. For information regarding tuition and fees, please visit the Student Financial Services webpage, here.

Please note that some fees may not be specifically listed. Any questions about tuition rates, fees, or financial aid should be directed to the Student Financial Services team.

Accessible Education Services and Accommodations Policy & Procedures

Accommodations Policy and Procedures from the Office of Accessible Education Services

LMU is committed to providing accessible educational support services to enable students with disabilities to participate in, and benefit from, all University programs and activities. Every effort is made to reasonably accommodate the needs of a student with a disability. It is important for students to understand that it is the student’s responsibility to request accessibility services at a post-secondary institution, and timely requests for services are imperative for the best possible outcomes in seeking and receiving reasonable accommodations. Our mission is to work with you as a team to remove barriers that may hinder your ability to fully participate in the academic experience at Lincoln Memorial University.

Accessible educational support services are administered by the Office of Accessible Education Services. To learn more about the Office of Accessible Education Services, visit online at Lincoln Memorial University Accessible Education Services. Any issues related to accessibility, the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”), or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (“Section 504”) should be directed to:

Jason Davis
Lincoln Memorial University
6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway
Harrogate, TN 37752
Office Location: Carnegie-Vincent Library - Office 105
Phone: 423.869.6587
jason.davis@lmunet.edu

Procedure to Request an Accommodation

The following procedure must be followed in order for any student with a disability to be considered for accommodations through Lincoln Memorial University:

Accommodations must be requested by the student EACH semester. To request an accommodation, the student must submit a Student Request for Accommodations form and the required medical documentation to the Office of Accessible Education Services by the following deadlines: September 1 (fall semester); February 1 (spring semester); June 1 (summer semester). Accommodation requests will be considered after the deadline only if the disability first presents itself after the corresponding deadline, but in any event no fewer than fourteen (14) days preceding the requested effective date of the accommodation.
Upon receipt of a student’s request for accommodations, the Director of Accessible Education Services will contact the student to discuss specific accommodation needs and request any additional information necessary to make a determination on the student’s request.
If accommodations are approved, a Letter of Accommodation listing the accommodations for that semester will be provided to the student and assigned faculty. All parties must sign for accommodations to be effective. Signatures may be collected via Adobe Sign.
Accommodations will not be provided until the Director of Accessible Education Services has received the Letter of Accommodation signed by the student and each faculty member. Accommodations are not retroactive, so it is extremely important that students and faculty sign the Letter of Accommodation as soon as possible.

If accommodations are denied, the student may appeal the decision by following the grievance procedure listed below.

Note: **Accommodations remain in effect only for the academic semester in which the accommodations are granted. THERE ARE NO AUTOMATIC RENEWALS OF ACCOMMODATIONS. Students must request accommodations for each semester by following the procedure outlined above.**

Documentation Requirements

Students requesting accommodations or services from LMU because of a disability are required to submit sufficient documentation to determine eligibility for those accommodations or services in accordance with Section 504 and the ADA. A diagnosis of a disability does not necessarily qualify a student for academic accommodations under the law. To establish that a student is covered under Section 504 and the ADA, the documentation must indicate that the disability substantially limits a major life activity. If academic or classroom-based adjustments and/or accommodations are requested, learning must be one of the major life activities affected. Students requesting services for the manifestations of multiple disabilities must provide supporting documentation for all such disabilities.

LMU will determine eligibility for and appropriateness of requested services on a case-by-case basis based on the adequacy and completeness of the documentation submitted. If the documentation is incomplete or inadequate to determine the extent of the disability or reasonable accommodation, the University has the discretion to require additional documentation. Any costs incurred in obtaining additional documentation shall be incurred by the student. In general, it is not acceptable for such documentation to include a diagnosis or testing performed by a member of the student's family or by a member of the LMU Office of Mental Health Counseling. Evidence that a student has received prior accommodations, either at LMU or another institution, is not considered adequate or complete documentation.

LMU will make the final determination as to whether appropriate and reasonable accommodations are warranted and can be provided. LMU reserves the right to request reassessment of the student’s disability when questions arise regarding previous assessment, provision of services or accommodations, or when the student requests additional services or accommodations above and beyond what has been previously provided to the student.

The following documentation requirements provide students, schools, and professional diagnosticians with a common understanding of the components of documentation that are necessary to validate the existence of a disability, the impact on the individual’s educational performance, and the need for academic accommodations for purposes of the ADA and Section 504. Students are encouraged to provide these documentation requirements to their medical professional to ensure that all requirements are met and to facilitate a timely response to the student’s request for accommodation.

A Qualified Professional Must Conduct the Evaluation - Students must provide diagnostic documentation from a licensed clinical professional (e.g., medical doctor, psychologist, neurophysiologist, education diagnostician, etc.) who specializes in a field consistent with the diagnosis and who is familiar with the student’s medical history and functional implications of the impairments. The documentation must be provided on the professional’s letterhead or official medical record and include the professional’s full name, license number, certifications, the facility at which the professional practices, the date, and signature of the professional. The professional should not be a member of the student’s family or a member of the LMU Office of Mental Health Counseling.
Documentation Must be Current - Reasonable accommodations are based on the current impact of the disability on the student’s daily life activities and/or academic performance. In most cases this means that a diagnostic evaluation should be age appropriate, relevant to the student’s learning environment, and show the student’s current level of functioning. If documentation does not address the student’s current level of functioning, a re-evaluation may be required.
Documentation Must Include a Specific Diagnosis - The report must include a clear and direct statement that a disability does or does not exist. Terms such as “learning difficulty,” “appears,” “suggests,” or “probable” do not support a conclusive diagnosis.
Documentation Must be Comprehensive - The documentation must include a summary containing relevant historical information, instructional interventions, related services, and age of initial diagnosis. Documentation relative to a learning disability, ADD/ADHD, or psychological disability must also include objective data regarding aptitude, achievement, and information processing as indicated in the Student Request for Accommodation Form. Documentation relative to dining service accommodations must include specific dietary restrictions and/or food allergies for which an accommodation is being sought.
Recommendations for Accommodations - The documentation must include specific recommendations for accommodation(s). A prior history of an accommodation, without a demonstration of a current need, does not in and of itself warrant the provision of that accommodation. Each accommodation recommended by an evaluator should include a medical-based rationale. The evaluation should support the recommendations with specific test results or clinical observations. If an accommodation is not clearly identified in the diagnostic report, LMU has the right to seek clarification and/or additional information from the student’s physician.

Temporary Accommodations

In the event that a student has a temporary disabling condition, the student may request temporary accommodations utilizing the process and documentation requirements set forth above. Temporary accommodations remain in effect until the student’s medical professional has indicated the accommodations are no longer necessary or the end of the academic semester, whichever comes first. If the temporary disabling condition persists into the following semester, the student must again request accommodations following the procedure set forth above.

If a student requires a temporary parking pass because of a temporary disabling condition, the student may request a Temporary Disabled Permit through Lincoln Memorial University’s Campus Police and Security or online at https://www.emailmeform.com/builder/form/F040Pokb2bH7r1. All students requesting a Temporary Disabled Permit must also complete the application for a temporary parking placard through the State of Tennessee.

ADA/Section 504 Grievance Procedure

The following procedure must be followed for all grievances concerning disability-related matters including, but not limited to, a request for accommodation, the provision of accommodations, or access to facilities. Students may make a complaint about:

A determination regarding a requested service or accommodation;
Administration of a requested service or accommodation;
Inaccessibility of a university program, activity, service, or facility;
Harassment on the basis of disability in violation of university policy; or
Any other alleged university violation of the ADA or the Rehabilitation Act.

The university encourages individuals to utilize this procedure before pursuing remedies outside the university. Students have the right to file a complaint directly with the Office of Civil Rights of the United States Department of Education.

For more information regarding the Grievance procedures, visit the Lincoln Memorial University Accessible Education Services webpage.

Pregnant and Parenting Student Academic Adjustments

Lincoln Memorial University's Office of Institutional Compliance--via the Title IX team--is proud to serve pregnant and parenting students. Under Title IX, pregnant and parenting students have rights regarding their access to education. If you are pregnant or parenting, Title IX protections and reasonable related academic adjustments include but may not be limited to the following:

Guaranteed access to classes and school activities
Excused absences and medical leave
Protection from harassment

Please review the full policy at the Title IX and Institutional Compliance webpage.

Lactation

LMU-CVM supports lactating women. There are designated lactation rooms in VET 213 and CVM 252. These can be reserved through the building coordinators. Students will make reasonable efforts to pump between classes or outside of instruction time. Lactating students who must pump during a portion of their class period must seek temporary accommodations through the Title IX Office through the aforementioned process. Instructors are prohibited from penalizing breastfeeding students for their absence to express breast milk on campus. Instructors and students shall work together to identify solutions for making up missed instruction. If problems arise, or a student must miss class for linger periods due to medical necessity, the student may contact the ADSAA and Title IX for assistance establishing reasonable accommodations.

For more information about resources available on and off campus and to view the harassment, discrimination, and sexual misconduct policies, visit the LMU Title IX webpage or contact the Title IX Office:

Rebekah Webb, Title IX Coordinator and Institutional Compliance Officer
Cumberland Gap Office #3
609 Colwyn St., Cumberland Gap, TN 37724
(423) 869-6315

Academic Progress, Standards, and Policies

LMU-CVM Graduate Program Requirements for Graduation

Each of the LMU-CVM graduate programs has its own requirements for graduating with the intended degree. Refer to each program's entry within this graduate catalog for program-specific policies.

All LMU-CVM graduate students must complete their degree program with a cumulative GPA of 2.85+ to be awarded the degree, unless otherwise required to be higher. The student bears the ultimate responsibility for effective planning, progression, and completion of all requirements for the chosen degree.

Grades

LMU-CVM graduate students receive two sets of grades for each course: letter grades and percentages.

For the official LMU transcript, grades of A, B, C, or F are used. The CVM does not assign + or - to grades. If a student fails a course and successfully retakes the course, the passing grade will replace the failing grade for the purposes of calculating the cumulative program GPA.

The official LMU transcript will reflect a GPA based on a 4.0 scale, as follows:

GPA Calculation Key
A	4
B	3
C	2
F	0

Within the CVM, students earn an actual percentage in each course, as outlined in the courses' individual syllabi. For reporting the 100% scale to the 4.0 scale, grades are rounded (e.g. 79.4 = C; 79.5 = B). On the 100% scale, the grades are assigned as follows:

100% Scale Key
A	89.5 - 100
B	79.5 - 89.5
C	69.5 - 79.4
F	< 69.5%

Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy

CVM graduate students are required to maintain a ≥ 3.0 GPA in their program of study. Any student found to have performed below the 3.0+ standard in a given semester will be placed on academic probation for the following semester and may remain on academic probation until their cumulative program GPA meets the standard.

Required Procedures for CVM Graduate Students on Academic Probation

A CVM graduate student placed on academic probation is required to meet with the CVM Academic Success Team twice in the semester following notification of probation; for example, a student who performs below a 3.0+ GPA in the 2024 Fall semester will be placed on academic probation for the 2025 Spring semester, and during the 2025 Spring semester must meet with the CVM Academic Success Team at least twice.

One Academic Success meeting must be held at the beginning of the semester, and the second must be held by the end of midterms. The student may meet with the Academic Success Team as many times as necessary or desired but must meet a minimum of twice within the stated time frame. Failure to fulfill this requirement will be interpreted as disregard for academic progress and/or a lack of professionalism, which may result in dismissal from their program of study.

A student on academic probation must achieve a ≥ 3.0 GPA in the semester of their probation; if a student fails to meet this benchmark, they will remain on academic probation and be required to complete further academic counseling. If a student is unable to achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of ≥ 2.85 at the end of their second consecutive probationary semester, the student may be dismissed from their program of study.

Procedures for Academic Deficiencies

CVM graduate student progress through their program of study is subject to the LMU-CVM Student Progress Committee (SPC) procedures and policies. In addition to placement on academic probation, a CVM graduate student found to be failing to progress satisfactorily through their degree program may be subjected to LMU-CVM Student Progress Committee review. For a detailed outline of SPC policies and procedures, refer to the LMU-CVM Student Handbook.

Outcome for Graduate Student Academic Deficiencies

CVM graduate students are required to maintain a ≥ 3.0+ GPA in their program of study. Any student found to have performed below the 3.0+ standard in a given semester will be placed on academic probation for the following semester, and may remain on academic probation until their cumulative program GPA meets the standard. If a student is not able to maintain the required GPA, the Graduate Council and/or the CVM Student Progress Committee has the authority to recommend the student’s dismissal from the program. If it is determined to be numerically impossible to reach the required cumulative GPA, even with earning the highest possible grades in subsequent coursework, the student may be dismissed from their program of study. The CVM Dean will provide official notification in such cases. The minimum required cumulative GPA for degree completion is 2.85.

Graduate Course Repetition Policy

Repeating a course will replace the previously earned grade in calculation of the cumulative GPA in order to remove the probationary status and/or determine graduation eligibility. The original grade continues to be reported on the transcript and should also be reported by the student to avoid the consequences of false reporting to any other educational institution. No course may be repeated more than once, and a student may repeat a maximum of two (2) courses in a degree program.

Leaves of Absence Policy

Progression in a student's academic program can be interrupted for various reasons, resulting in gaps within the scheduled curriculum.

Any absence request greater than 5 business days requires permission from the Dean and may require a student to take a leave of absence. A leave of absence may be granted from LMU-CVM for one of the following reasons: 1) a medical, personal, or family emergency; 2) a financial emergency; 3) maternity; 4) a call to active military service; or 5) pursuit of an academic endeavor other than the regular classroom work, either on campus or at another recognized teaching facility. The student must meet with the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Admissions to provide justification for the leave. The Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Admissions will recommend a student to the Dean for a Leave of Absence. The Dean may grant a Leave of Absence for the student. Only students who are in good academic standing with LMU-CVM will be granted a leave of absence. Students who are on academic probation, and have no professional or disciplinary sanctions, who that are seeking a leave of absence for health/medical reasons may be allowed the leave on a case-by-case basis. Upon return, the student would remain on academic probation.

The LMU-CVM will notify the student in writing about the decision regarding the Leave of Absence and any requirements about the student's return to campus. Leaves of absence are granted for a maximum of one year. Before a student's leave of absence may begin, he or she must go through LMU-CVM's prescribed check-out procedure that includes completion of the Student Separation Form.

Students seeking to return from a leave of absence must ensure that all approved terms and conditions of the leave are submitted in writing before reinstatement will be granted. The submission of this paperwork is the responsibility of the student and must be submitted to the LMU-CVM by the preceding June 30th for fall semester and October 31st for spring semester of the academic year in which the student wishes to be readmitted. The written request should be directed to the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Admissions.

Students granted a medical leave of absence must have a licensed physician or mental health professional certify in writing that the student's physical and/or mental health is sufficient to re-enter in the academic program. This letter must be approved by the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Admissions before the student will be allowed to return to LMU-CVM.

Maximum Timeframes for Program Completion

VBMS: Students must complete their studies within two (2) years after initial registration, unless they are dually enrolled in a professional program. Students in the VBMS thesis track must complete all requirements within three (3) years full-time enrollment or five (5) years part-time enrollment after initial registration.

MVCC: Students must complete their studies within five (5) years after initial registration.

MVEd: Full-time students (3 courses per semester) can complete their studies within two (2) years after initial registration. Part-time students (1-2 courses per semester) must complete all requirements within four (4) years after initial registration, unless an extension is granted by the Graduate Council.

CVEd: Full-time students (2-3 courses per semester) can complete their studies in one (1) year after initial registration. Part-time students (1-2 courses per semester) must complete all requirements within two (2) years after initial registration.

A request for an extension of graduate program completion requires the approval of the Graduate Council and the LMU-CVM Dean.

The student bears the ultimate responsibility for ensuring completion of all graduation requirements.

Dismissal or Withdrawal

The LMU-CVM reserves the right to dismiss any student at any time prior to graduation. Circumstances warranting such action may be of an academic, ethical, legal, or professional nature. It is imperative that any student who is dismissed or withdraws from the LMU-CVM complete the Student Separation Form. Failure to complete the Student Separation Form will result in the LMU-CVM withholding all records pertaining to the student's attendance. When the student completes all prescribed obligations, the LMU-CVM will release the student's academic records upon request through the Office of the Dean.

If the student is withdrawing, he or she must supply the Dean with a letter of resignation. Upon notification of the student leaving the program, the Dean will produce a memorandum stating the change in the student's status to be distributed to all LMU and LMU-CVM offices and to LMU-CVM course directors.

If a student withdraws or is dismissed from the program, the LMU Security Office will also be notified. The student will forfeit their LMU-CVM student identification card to LMU Security prior to leaving campus.

Right to Appeal

A student wishing to appeal the LMU-CVM Dean’s decision must submit a letter requesting an appeal to the Student Appeals Committee via email to LMU-CVMAppealsCommittee@student.lmunet.edu within five (5) working days of receiving notification of that decision. During the process of the appeal, the conditions set forth in the dean’s decision will stand (e.g., probation, dismissal/ separation).

The Appeals Committee determines if the LMU-CVM policies and procedures relating to the case were followed and that no gross misapplication of fact occurred. The committee does not render a judgment on the Ethics and Honor Code violation or academic deficiencies, only that the proper policies and procedures were followed. They will meet with the student and if requested by the student, a Procedural Advocate, but not with witnesses or complainants. The decision of the committee will be forwarded in writing by the chair to the Dean of LMU-CVM. The Dean of LMU-CVM will forward it to the student by email or certified mail to their last official address or hand-delivered with return receipt. All decisions of the Appeals Committee will be final and binding. No further option for appeal will be considered.

The Student Appeals Committee has five (5) working days to finalize the case.

Failure to appear for the appeals hearing will result in automatic Appeals Committee decision to uphold Dean’s decision.

Conduct and Professionalism Policies

LMU Code of Student Conduct

Refer to the Railsplitter Community Standards Guide.

LMU-CVM Student Ethics & Honor Code

Establishing and maintaining the highest concepts of honor and personal integrity during veterinary medical education is critical to our training as veterinary professionals. It is our responsibility to actively support these standards; and it is reasonable to expect our fellow students to do the same.

Ethical, Attitudinal, and Behavioral Requirements for Students of Veterinary Medicine

In addition to all LMU required behavior, the LMU-CVM firmly believes that as a part of the veterinary profession and as a professional veterinary education program we must hold ourselves to a high standard to practice our core values. Desirable characteristics of veterinary students are based not only on academic achievement, but also on non-academic factors that serve to ensure that students have the behavioral and social attributes necessary to contribute positively to the veterinary profession. LMU-CVM students possess the necessary character traits, attitudes, and values that will result in beneficent and ethical veterinary care.

These include, but are not limited to, the following:

A student must never perform any action that might be construed as the practice of veterinary medicine, except as permitted under the laws of the applicable jurisdiction in which the student may function in the role of providing animal healthcared under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. It is the student's responsibility to know and understand the applicable laws and regulations pertaining to the practice of veterinary medicine.
A student must be able to relate to instructors, classmates, staff, community, clients, and their animals with honest, compassion, empathy, integrity, and dedication.
A student must not allow considerations of religion, disability, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, politics, or social standing to preclude productive and constructive relationships with instructors, staff, classmates, or clients.
A student must not allow considerations of breed or species to influence relationships with his/her patients or teaching animals. For example, a student must never intentionally withhold medical care from a feline patient out of a dislike or distrust of cats.
A student must be able to understand and use the authority, special privileges, and trust inherent in the veterinary student-client relationship for the benefit of both the client and the patient and avoid behaviors that constitute misuse of this power.
A student must never compromise care of an animal that has been left in his or her care or is his or her responsibility, regardless of whether this care conflicts with personal schedules or activities.
Any LMU-CVM recognized student organization that organizes or sponsors a sanctioned off campus event where alcohol is served, used, or sold must use a third-party vendor, such as a hotel or restaurant, to serve the alcohol. The third-party vendor must have a cash bar with individual students paying for their own alcohol. Monetary transactions will be between the individual students and the third party; there will be no monetary transaction between the LMU student organization and the third-party vendor. Student association funds will not be used to pay for alcohol; likewise, members of the club will not participate in serving the alcohol. Any student organization that violates this rule will be sanctioned.
A student must be able to fully utilize his/ her intellectual ability, to exercise good judgment, to complete patient care responsibilities promptly and properly and to relate to patients, patients' owners, faculty, administrators, staff and colleagues with courtesy, compassion, maturity, and respect for their dignity.
A student must demonstrate maturity, including the ability to adapt to local culture, the ability to exercise good judgment, and tolerance and acceptance of social, cultural and/or political differences.
A student must be able to work collaboratively and flexibly as a professional team member.
A student must behave in a professional manner despite stressful work demands, changing environments and/or clinical uncertainties.
A student must have the capacity to modify behavior in response to constructive criticism.
A student must be open to examining personal attitudes, perceptions and stereotypes that may negatively impact patient care or interpersonal relationships.
A student must possess an intrinsic desire for excellence and be motivated to become an effective veterinary professional.
Because the veterinary medical profession is governed by ethical principles and bylaws, a student must have the capacity to understand, learn, and abide by relevant and applicable values and laws. Examples of breaches of veterinary medical ethics include, but are not limited to cheating, plagiarism, or other forms of academic dishonesty; submitting fraudulent medical records or certificates; willfully withholding medical treatments ordered by a clinician; betraying a client's confidence; or animal cruelty, whether through acts of commission or omission.

Professional Conduct

Establishing and maintaining the highest concepts of honor and personal integrity during veterinary education are critical to training veterinary professionals. It is the responsibility of the student to actively support these standards and it is reasonable to expect that colleagues will do the same. Behavior and speech should demonstrate respect for the diversity of colleagues. One must avoid disparaging remarks or actions with regard to a person's race, age, gender, disability, national origin, position, religion, or sexual orientation. Students will strive to create an environment that fosters mutual learning, dialogue, and respect while avoiding verbal, written or physical contact that could create a hostile or intimidating environment.

Since a person's actions continuously reflect one's intentions, students will adhere to the standards of Professional Conduct when within, representing, or in any way impacting the community, including behaviors in off campus settings or at non-LMU events where other LMU students are participating or present.

Respect for Faculty, Staff, Colleagues, Hospital Staff, and Community

Students will exhibit respect for faculty, staff, colleagues, and other members of the veterinary health care team. This respect will be demonstrated by professional conduct in mannerism, conversation, and relationships. Students will refer to faculty and staff by their appropriate title, such as "Doctor Smith," or "Mrs. Jones," unless otherwise directed. Students will strive to understand the role and responsibility as well as importance of their peers, colleagues, and team members. Students will make every effort to maintain an even disposition, display a judicious use of others' time, and handle private information maturely. They will express views in a calm, respectful and mature manner when in disagreement with another individual, understanding that a mutual agreement will not always be reached. Confrontations of such nature will be carried out in a private location as soon as time permits.

Respect for Self

A diversity of personal beliefs serves to enrich the veterinary medical profession. Therefore, students are encouraged to uphold personal ethics, beliefs, and morals in both daily conduct and in the practice of this Code. Understanding conflicts may exist that interfere with personal beliefs, students are encouraged to be proactive with communicating these situations.

Respect for Laws, Policies, and Regulations

Laws, policies and regulations at the university, local, state, and federal levels benefit the community and are not to be disregarded or violated. Any matters under the jurisdiction of local, state, or federal laws are explicitly deemed "outside the scope" of this Code.

Substance Abuse

Substance abuse will not be tolerated by any student while enrolled at LMU. Students are not to attend a class, laboratory, or a clinical rotation when under the effects of alcohol or drugs. Students found abusing or misusing alcohol or drugs will face disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. Students needing professional help with alcohol or substance abuse/misuse issues should contact LMU counseling services. A student may be subjected to substance testing without notice at any time.

The LMU-CVM is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment in compliance with applicable laws. The unlawful possession, use, distribution, sale, or manufacture of controlled substances is prohibited on the university campus, its facilities, or any clinical site. Violation of this policy may result in the appropriate disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

Academic Conduct and Standards

Students are responsible for ethical conduct and integrity in all scholastic and clinical work. As future veterinary healthcare professionals, LMU-CVM graduate students recognize that they are obligated to develop their knowledge and skills to the best of their abilities, realizing the health of the patient is dependent upon their competence. Students will work together as a team to utilize all available resources.

Academic Integrity

It is the aim of the faculty of LMU-CVM to foster a spirit of complete honesty and a high standard of integrity .The attempt of any student to present as his/her own work that he/she has not honestly performed is regarded by the faculty and administration as a very serious offense and renders the offender liable for severe consequences and possible dismissal.

Cheating

Dishonesty of any kind on examinations or written assignments, unauthorized possession of examination questions, the use of unauthorized notes (either written or electronic) during an examination, obtaining information during an examination from another student, assisting others to cheat, altering grade records, or illegally entering an office are instances of cheating. Cell phones, smart phones, and smart watches are not permitted during examinations. A student who is found to have a cell phone or smart device on their person during an examination will receive a zero for that examination and will be subject to dismissal.

Plagiarism

Offering the work of another as one's own without proper acknowledgment is plagiarism; therefore, any student who fails to give credit for quotations or essentially identical material taken from books, magazines, encyclopedias, or other reference works, or from the themes, reports, or other writings of a fellow student has committed plagiarism. In addition, submitting someone else's work as one's own or submitting one's work for multiple courses is considered plagiarism or self-plagiarism, respectively.

AI Policy

The use of GenAI in any work performed in class, labs, clinical work, submitted as assignments, or other course requirements, if allowed, will be made clear to students by the instructor. All work is to be the student’s own original work and composed entirely by the student, unless otherwise explicitly permitted by the instructor. All assistance or use of GenAI that is disallowed by an instructor may incur penalties according to the Academic Integrity policies of the University and LMU-CVM.

Stealing

Students will not take temporary or permanent possession of LMU-CVM property without the organization's express written permission. This includes, but is not limited to, hospital surgical attire, books, food, etc.

Electronic Mail Policy

All LMU students in the LMU-CVM programs will utilize their LMUnet.edu email address for communication within the college and university. All official communications to students will be sent to this e-mail address. It is the student's responsibility to check their LMU email account on a daily basis. Failure to check and respond to email and learning management system announcements (e.g. Canvas) may result in missing important information and may result in receiving incomplete or failing grades for a course.

Students should subscribe to and monitor Canvas notifications.

Professionalism Standards in Social Media

Social media is a term that describes any of the various applications and web-based networking sites that students use to communicate and connect in a private or public venue. The most popular examples are GroupMe, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and X (formerly Twitter), but other applications are applicable. Any communications about course notifications or information should be through official LMU email or the learning management system.

The LMU-CVM recognizes the major advantages of social networking sites. Not only do they connect students quickly and widely, they also provide valuable exchanges of information and the ability to comment, critique, and carry on dialogue. Any engagement in social media should be framed in professional, mature and reflective discussions and interactions. Unprofessional postings include profanity, discriminatory statements, personally directed abuse of any individual, alcohol/substance abuse, sexually suggestive material, and violations of patient/client confidentiality.

While quick and far-reaching, social media posts are also fairly permanent. Although you may think you have deleted an inappropriate post, it is probably archived in someone's file. As a rule of thumb, if you would be embarrassed if your Dean read your statements, then you are better off not posting them. Prospective employers, residency directors, and future clients use social networking sites to check out your background, interests, and professional standards. Do not post inappropriate photos that provide unflattering references. Remove any unprofessional postings as soon as possible.

No photos, videos or digital recording of LMU-CVM animals should ever be posted on social media. Cameras and cell phones are strictly prohibited in the anatomy and clinical skills labs unless specifically approved by the LMU-CVM. Failure to follow this policy will be considered a violation of the Ethics and Honor Code.

Photo Policy

Photography or any use of recording devices (e.g., film or digital cameras, camera phones, sound recorders) is strictly prohibited in animal use areas, unless specifically approved by the LMU-CVM. This includes any and all animals or patients at or owned by LMU-CVM. Failure to follow this policy will be considered a violation of the Ethics and Honor Code.

Exceptions:

When performed by government inspectors (e.g. USDA Veterinary Medical Officer).

When required by personnel authorized by the Institutional Officer assist in clinical diagnosis of disease.

When the Institutional Officer has requested to document conditions of the animal facilities.

Academic Environment

The University considers both the in-class and the out-of-class learning spaces to be equally important. Thus, in both cases, we strive to create environments conducive to optimal learning. Cell phones are to be turned off at all times while classes are in session so as not to interrupt the flow of instruction and learning. Laptops should judiciously be used only for course materials while classes are in session. Additionally, children are not to be brought to class without special permission from the ADSAA. Students who violate this policy may be asked to leave.

Academic Freedom

College and University students are both citizens and members of the academic community. As citizens, students should enjoy the same freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, and right of petition that other citizens within the University mission enjoy; and as members of the academic community, students are subject to the obligations which accrue to them by virtue of this membership. Faculty members and administration officials should ensure that institutional powers are not employed to inhibit such intellectual and personal development of students as is often promoted by their exercise of the rights of citizenship both on and off campus. (Adapted from the 1992 American Association of University Professors statement on Student Rights and Freedom).

Sexual and other Discriminatory Harassments

Lincoln Memorial University prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in all University programs and activities. Lincoln Memorial University prohibits retaliation against any individual for 1) filing, or encouraging someone to file, a complaint of discrimination; 2) participating in an investigation of discrimination; or 3) opposing discrimination. "Retaliation" includes any adverse action or act of revenge against an individual for filing or encouraging someone to file a complaint of discrimination, participating in an investigation of discrimination, or opposing discrimination.

The Office of Institutional Compliance investigates allegations of prohibited discrimination, harassment, and retaliation involving members of the LMU community. LMU is committed to providing an environment free of all forms of discrimination, including gender or sex-based discrimination. All LMU employees are Mandatory Reporters; this means that if any LMU employee is informed of a situation that may involve sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, stalking, domestic violence, dating violence, or any other form of prohibited gender or sex-based discrimination, the employee is required to report the information to the Title IX Coordinator. If students would like to speak with an individual who does not have this obligation, confidential counseling is available free of charge through the LMU Office of Mental Health Counseling. Appointments can be scheduled online: https://www.lmunet.edu/counseling/ index.php. If students have experienced discrimination, help and support is available. To make a report, contact:

Rebekah Webb, Title IX Coordinator and Institutional Compliance Officer
Cumberland Gap Offices #3
Rebekah.Webb@LMUnet.edu or TitleIX@LMUnet.edu
(423) 869-6315

An online reporting form is available at https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?LincolnMemorialUniv&layout id=50. For more information about resources available on and off campus, and to view the harassment, discrimination, and sexual misconduct policies, visit http://www.lmunet.edu/ titleix.

Student Ethics and Honor Code Violations and Accountability

Our honor as community members and students of a veterinary educational program is maintained through accountability. We will act in accordance with this code; we expect our peers to do the same. We will act with honor to avoid burdening our peers with responsibility for our own integrity. Actions not in accordance with the aforementioned standards constitute a violation of this Code. Any time period described in the Code may be extended for good cause at the discretion of the LMU-CVM Dean or ADSAA. Any meeting or hearing described in the Code may be rescheduled for good cause at the discretion of the LMU-CVM Dean or ADSAA.

Reporting Procedure for Ethical and Honor Code Violations

A case of a suspected violation or an unresolved situation may be brought to the ADSAA through self-reporting or by the observer of a violation, at which point the case proceeds to an investigation if warranted and, potentially, a subsequent hearing for resolution. Reporting violations should be accomplished by submitting the appropriate Ethics and Honor Code Violation form available in the LMU-CVM Graduate Student Support SharePoint. After submission of a signed complaint, the involved parties will be notified within 5 working days of Misconduct Allegation and informed of a preliminary meeting date, time, and location with the ADSAA. If the complaint is anonymous and unsigned, an investigation of the allegations shall be conducted by the ADSAA or someone appointed by the ADSAA. Based on the findings of the investigation, further action may be taken by the ADSAA through a preliminary meeting. If the preliminary investigation determines that no violation occurred, the matter is considered resolved. Records will be placed in a confidential file and destroyed upon the student’s graduation. Records are to be kept at each level of the process. The Chair will appoint a member to maintain all documentation. All records will be kept on file that is maintained by the ADSAA.

Ethical and Honor Code Violation Procedures

The LMU-CVM Ethical and Honor Code Violation Procedures, including a step-by-step breakdown of the process and potential resolutions, sanctions, and outcomes are covered at length in the LMU-CVM Student Handbook. Refer to the LMU-CVM Student Handbook section on Ethical and Honor Code Violation Procedures for details.

Right to Appeal

A student wishing to appeal the LMU-CVM Dean’s decision must submit a letter requesting an appeal to the Student Appeals Committee via email to LMU- CVMAppealsCommittee@student.lmunet.edu within five (5) working days of receiving notification of that decision. During the process of the appeal, the conditions set forth in the dean’s decision will stand (e.g., probation, dismissal/ separation).

The Appeals Committee determines if the LMU-CVM policies and procedures relating to the case were followed and that no gross misapplication of fact occurred. The committee does not render a judgment on the Ethics and Honor Code violation or academic deficiencies, only that the proper policies and procedures were followed. They will meet with the student and if requested by the student, a PA, but not with witnesses or complainants. The decision of the committee will be forwarded in writing by the chair to the Dean of LMU-CVM. The Dean of LMU-CVM will forward it to the student by email or certified mail to their last official address or hand-delivered with return receipt. All decisions of the Appeals Committee will be final and binding. No further option for appeal will be considered.

The Student Appeals Committee has five (5) working days to finalize the case.

Failure to appear for the appeals hearing will result in automatic Appeals Committee decision to uphold the Dean’s decision.

Governing Body of LMU-CVM Graduate Programs

Graduate Council

The LMU-CVM Graduate Council is the policy-making and recommending body for the graduate programs provided by the LMU-CVM. It is composed of the Program Directors of each graduate program and a graduate programs staff member. The Graduate Council meets regularly to review program functions, admissions status, student academic progress, proposed academic changes, and policy effectiveness. Programmatic recommendations flow from this council to the CVM Dean's Executive Committee of the Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine before being considered by the University Academic Council, University Cabinet, University President, or Board of Trustees.