Standards of Conduct and Institutional Sanctions

Science & Arts is committed to compliance with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act, and a campus culture that reduces alcohol and drug use, abuse, and illegal conduct. University policy strictly prohibits the illegal use, possession, manufacture, dispensing or distribution of alcohol, drugs, or controlled substances in the workplace, on its premises, or as part of any University sponsored activities except where allowed by policy. The inappropriate use, misuse, or abuse of prescription or over-the counter medications is forbidden. All members of the campus community will also be held accountable by law enforcement representatives of those entities for any illegal drug and/or alcohol activity. It is the responsibility of all campus members to be aware of these laws.

The violation of this student policy can result in reprimand, conduct probation, removal from residence halls, mandatory treatment, or rehabilitation at the student’s own expense, and can result in sanctions up to and including suspension or expulsion from the university.

Students, faculty, and staff who violate Science & Arts’ drug and alcohol policies are simultaneously subject to criminal sanctions provided by federal, state, and local law.

The University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma recognizes its responsibility as an educational and public service institution to promote a healthy and productive environment. Student use of illegal drugs, misuse of prescription and non-prescription medications (as defined by law), and alcohol abuse is a matter of concern to Science & Arts. Science & Arts endeavors to protect and assist students by providing reliable information about the hazards of drugs and alcohol, identifying students at risk for substance use issues and, assisting students in receiving substance abuse treatment when necessary. The University is committed to a program to prevent the abuse of alcohol and the illegal use of drugs by its students. The University program includes this policy which prohibits illegal use of drugs and alcohol in the workplace, on University property, or as part of any University sponsored activities. In order to meet these responsibilities, University policy:

Requires all students to abide by the terms of this policy as a condition of initial and continued enrollment.
Recognizes that the illegal use of drugs and alcohol is in direct violation of local, state, and federal laws as well as University policies included in this policy, and the Student Code of Conduct. University policy strictly prohibits the illegal use, possession, manufacture, dispensing or distribution of alcohol, drugs, or controlled substances in the workplace, on its premises, or as part of any University sponsored activities.
Considers a violation of this policy to be a major offense which can result in a requirement for satisfactory participation in a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program at the individual’s expense, referral for criminal prosecution, and/or immediate disciplinary action up to and including expulsion from the University. A criminal conviction is not required for sanctions to be imposed upon student for violations of this policy.
Recognizes that violations of applicable local, state, and federal laws may subject a student to a variety of legal sanctions including, but not limited to, fines, incarceration, imprisonment, and/or community service requirements. Convictions become a part of an individual’s criminal record and may prohibit career and professional opportunities.
Prohibits the use of controlled substances which cannot be legally obtained, including:
prescribed drugs when prescription is no longer valid (e.g. use of medication after a course of treatment is completed);

prescribed drugs used contrary to the prescription;

prescribed drugs issued to another person.
Prohibits residents and their guests who are under the age of 21 from possessing or consuming alcohol. No resident, or their guests, regardless of age, may possess or consume hard alcohol in the residence halls. Hard alcohol is defined as alcohol that is equal to or greater than 15 percent alcohol by volume or 30 proof. Residents of the age of 21 or older are permitted to consume alcohol in the presence of those under 21. It is a violation for any resident to provide alcohol to any under the age of 21. It is a violation of housing policy to provide alcohol to anyone regardless of age who is visibly intoxicated. It is a violation of housing policy to be publicly intoxicated in the residence halls. Students 21 or over who are disruptive because of the use of alcohol may be considered in violation of this policy. Open containers of alcohol are not permitted in public or common areas either inside or outside of the residential buildings. Common areas include, but are not limited to, outside entry or adjacent sidewalk areas, all lounges, Lawson Clubhouse, Lawson pool, community kitchens, recreation rooms, entertainment areas, hallways, lobby restrooms, stairways, fire exits, and laundry rooms. Residents’ entry doors must remain closed while consuming alcohol. Any activities that induce, encourage, or result in the rapid consumption of alcohol are prohibited. Items used for drinking games or other activities that encourage the excessive or rapid consumption of alcohol (e.g. keg, beer pong tables, beer bongs, funnels, etc.) are prohibited. University officials will ask individuals who violate the alcohol policy to dispose of all alcohol in their possession. Students who violate the alcohol policy may be referred for disciplinary action. University officials have discretion to call police.
Provides referrals to counseling services for counseling and training programs which inform students about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. Voluntary participation in or referral to these services is strictly confidential and shall not, alone, result in disciplinary action.
Provides for annual distribution of this policy to student members of the university community.