General Information

Utah Valley University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 and over), disability, veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth, or pregnancy-related conditions, citizenship, genetic information, or other basis protected by applicable law, including Title IX and 34 C.F.R. Part 106, in employment, treatment, admission, access to educational programs and activities, or other University benefits or services. Inquiries about nondiscrimination at UVU may be directed to the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights or UVU’s Title IX Coordinator / Director of Equal Opportunity at 801-863-7999 – TitleIX@uvu.edu – 800 W University Pkwy, Orem, 84058, Suite BA 203.

Mission

Utah Valley University is an integrated university and community college that educates every student for success in work and life through excellence in engaged teaching, services, and scholarship.

Our Values

UVU’s culture supports our mission of student success. Student success encompasses both terminal degrees and the holistic education of students, and we believe that we can fulfill this mission best in an environment that allows all individuals to thrive personally and professionally. To this end, UVU, operates in accordance with three core values: exceptional care, exceptional accountability, and exceptional results.

Exceptional Care

We invite people to “come as you are” and let them know that “UVU has a place for you.” Care means that we strive always to “see” the person in front of us — their strengths and weaknesses, struggles and triumphs, past and potential, and inherent dignity and worth. This does not mean that we set low expectations or make excuses for poor efforts. Instead, our commitment to exceptional care means that we set the bar high and provide challenging, honest conversations and feedback because we are deeply invested in seeing every member of our community succeed.

Exceptional Accountability

We are strongly committed to working ethically and effectively. We approach each situation from a position of integrity, knowing that everything we do can help or hinder a positive student experience. We honor the resources and mandates we have been entrusted with and strive always to do our best to honor that trust. We respect each member of our community, seek to understand and fulfill our responsibilities, and recognize both individual and collective successes.

Exceptional Results

We are committed to creating opportunity systematically for as many people as possible. Our engaged curricula, programs, and partnerships address the intellectual and practical needs of our service area and the larger community. We seek to prepare our students to thrive in a rapidly changing economy and an interdependent, complex world. We aspire to greatness in all that we do, while also measuring progress against rigorous metrics that show our students are becoming competent and ethical professionals, lifelong learners, and engaged citizens.

Action Commitments and Objectives

Include

Through open admission and other practices, UVU provides accessible and equitable educational opportunities for every student who wants to receive a rewarding postsecondary education.

  • Objective 1: UVU integrates educational opportunities appropriate to both community colleges and universities.
  • Objective 2: UVU provides accessible, equitable, and culturally diverse learning experiences and resources for students of all backgrounds, including those historically underrepresented in higher education.
  • Objective 3: UVU fosters an inviting, safe, and supportive environment in which students, faculty, and staff can succeed.

Engage

UVU delivers rigorous, meaningful, and experiential learning opportunities driven by a shared responsibility for student success.

  • Objective 1: UVU faculty, staff, and students practice excellent, engaged teaching and learning activities as a community of scholars, creators, and practitioners.
  • Objective 2: UVU develops relationships and outreach opportunities with students, alumni, and community stakeholders.
  • Objective 3: UVU employees demonstrate a commitment to student success, professionalism, ethics, and accountability.

Achieve

UVU champions a university experience that helps students realize their educational, professional, and personal aspirations.

  • Objective 1: UVU supports students in completing their educational goals.
  • Objective 2: UVU students master the learning outcomes of the university and their programs.
  • Objective 3: UVU prepares students for success in their subsequent learning, professional, and civic pursuits.

Roles

As a regional state university, Utah Valley University:

Provides quality academic learning opportunities for students through programs at the certificate, associate, baccalaureate, and graduate levels. To encourage responsible citizenship, emphasis is placed on engaged teaching and learning as well as scholarly work, research, creative achievements, career and technical education and community and professional engagement.

Provides access to higher education and offers a broad range of opportunities from developmental education through honors programs. The institution provides services designed to meet the educational and personal needs of students, to foster student success, to prepare students for meaningful lifework, and to provide access through a variety of modalities, including satellite campuses and the use of technology.

Promotes economic and cultural development to contribute to the quality of life of the region and state. The institution fosters economic development and provides a talent-force to meet the needs of a dynamic economy by offering credit and non-credit programs and services for individuals and organizations. UVU provides cultural experiences that enrich the community and offer significant and varied opportunities for continuous learning.

Historical Development

Utah Valley University was established as Central Utah Vocational School in September 1941 with the primary function of providing war production training.

Post-war training needs found the school offering programs throughout the region and at the Utah County Fairgrounds. The three school districts within Utah County combined efforts to purchase a thirteen-acre site close to Provo High School.

In 1963, the name was changed to Utah Trade Technical Institute to emphasize its growing role in technical training. The name change to Utah Technical College at Provo in 1967 was accompanied by the authority to award the Associate in Applied Science Degree. The Associate in Science Degree was added in 1972.

The initial 185-acre Orem Campus was dedicated in 1977. In 1987, the name was changed to Utah Valley Community College and the Associate in Arts degree was added by the Utah State Board of Regents.

In 1993, the name was changed to Utah Valley State College reflecting the change in mission to offer high demand baccalaureate degrees.

The Utah State Legislature approved, in February 2007, a name change to Utah Valley University that became effective July 1, 2008. The Utah State Board of Regents approved the corresponding mission change in December 2007 to give authority to offer master level degrees; this also became effective July 1, 2008.

Accreditation

Utah Valley University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Accreditation of an institution of higher education by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities indicates that it meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of institutional quality evaluated through a peer review process. An accredited college or university is one which has available the necessary resources to achieve its stated purposes through appropriate educational programs, is substantially doing so, and gives reasonable evidence that it will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. Institutional integrity is also addressed through accreditation.

Accreditation by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities is not partial but applies to the institution as a whole. As such, it is not a guarantee of every course or program offered, or the competence of individual graduates. Rather, it provides reasonable assurance about the quality of opportunities available to students who attend the institution.

Inquiries regarding an institution’s accredited status by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities should be directed to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact:

  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
  • 8060 165th Avenue N.E., Suite 100
  • Redmond, WA 98052
  • (425)-558-4224
  • www.nwccu.org

The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) is an independent, non-profit membership organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as the regional authority on educational quality and institutional effectiveness of higher education institutions in the seven-state Northwest region of Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington.

In addition, some programs or majors have other specialized accreditation.

Gainful Employment information is provided in compliance with the U.S. Department of Education’s disclosure requirements for programs eligible for Title IV financial aid that prepare students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation as required in 34 CFR 668.6(b). All programs list the following information: CIP Code, Level of Program, Program Length, Tuition and required fees, Estimated costs for books and supplies, Debt at program completion, Program completion in Normal Time, Job Placement, and Related Occupations. Gainful Employment Program Disclosure is listed on all marketing materials for potential students.

Other Important Student Information

Student Right to Know

Utah Valley University hosts information regarding the Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act of 1991 on the HEA Student Consumer Information website. The Student Right-to-Know Act of 1991 requires all colleges and universities participating in Federal Student Aid Programs to disclose campus security policies, crime statistics, and information on students receiving athletically-related student aid, graduation rates, and other basic information about the University. To access a copy of the current Campus Security Report please visit www.uvu.edu/police.

Alcohol, Tobacco & Drugs

Utah Valley University, historically and at present, seeks to encourage and sustain an academic environment that promotes the health, safety, and welfare of all members of its community. In keeping with these objectives, alcoholic beverages, unlawful drugs, or other illegal substances shall not be consumed, used, carried, sold, or unlawfully manufactured on any property or in any building owned, leased, or rented by UVU, or at any activity sponsored by the University. (UVU Policy 157)

Any individual known to be in violation will be subject to University disciplinary action and to substantial legal sanctions pursuant to Local, County, State and Federal laws.

Smoking is prohibited in all University buildings and concourses. (UVU Policy 158)

All students can access a copy of the University Drug Policy online each semester at www.uvu.edu/wellness/aboutus/drug-policy.html. It explains the policy and University sanctions that may follow as a result of inappropriate drug and or alcohol use and the known health risks associated with inappropriate use.

Confidentiality of Records Policy

Utah Valley University is concerned for the confidentiality of student academic records, and a reasonable balance between the obligation of the institution for the instruction and welfare of the student and its responsibility to society. The University will make every effort to maintain student academic records in confidence by keeping information from individuals who are not authorized to receive it or who might use it for illegitimate purposes. The policy also reflects the efforts of the University to comply with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.

Upon presentation of appropriate identification and under circumstances which preclude alteration or mutilation of records, students will be able to inspect all records relating to themselves which are not considered by the University to be private records of University Personnel. A student is entitled to an explanation of any recorded data and may initiate action leading to a hearing, if necessary, to correct or expunge information he or she considers inaccurate or misleading.

Faculty and administrative officers who have a legitimate need to use student records will be allowed access to such records, as needed without prior permission from the student. A request from an educational institution to which the student has applied for admission, or from an institution or agency, from which the student is seeking financial assistance will be granted without written permission of the student. Similarly, data will be furnished to university accrediting bodies and governmental officials without written permission of the student.

No student information other than directory information will be given to any third party (except those mentioned above) without written consent of the student, and then only those records accessible to the student. The term party is construed to include parents, employers, government agencies, or any other people or organizations. Parents or guardians may have access to grade reports of a student’s activity if the parents establish to the satisfaction of the University that they are providing one-half or more of the student’s support. Court orders and subpoenas for records will be referred to and acted upon according to the directions of the Registrar. The University will make a reasonable effort to notify the student prior to release of information in response to subpoenas or court orders prior to actual submission of the material.

Directory information will be released to news media and to others upon request.

Directory information is defined as follows:

  • Name of student
  • Student identification number
  • Telephone number of student
  • University student email address
  • Photographs
  • Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
  • Weight and height of members of athletic teams
  • Hometown city and state of student
  • Verification of current enrollment
  • Dates of enrollment
  • Degrees conferred, dates, major field of concentration and honors received

Students may request, at any time, through the University Registrar’s office.

Civil Rights

Utah Valley University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 and over), disability, veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth, or pregnancy-related conditions, citizenship, genetic information, or other basis protected by applicable law in employment, treatment, admission, access to educational programs and activities, or other University benefits or services. The following office has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination: EOAA/Title IX – 801-863-5704 – 800 W University Pkwy, Orem, 84058, Suite BA 203.

Complete policies and procedures regarding Civil Rights (UVU Policies 152, 153, 154, 157, 158, 160, 161 162, 165) can be found at www.uvu.edu/policies, then click on Policy Manual.

Policy

The University prohibits all forms of protected class discrimination, harassment, and retaliation that violate Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), Title IV of the Higher Education Amendments Act of 1972 (Title IV), Title VI of the Higher Education Amendments Act of 1972 (Title VI), or related applicable laws. The University shall respond promptly and effectively to reports of protected class discrimination, harassment, and retaliation and shall take appropriate action to stop and prevent the recurrence of such conduct on the complainant and/or the university community.

Prohibited Conduct

Violations of policy 165 include acts of protected class discrimination, harassment, and retaliation within the meaning of Title VII, Title IV, Title VI, or related applicable laws. The University shall respond promptly and effectively to reports of protected class discrimination, harassment, and retaliation and shall take appropriate action to stop and prevent the recurrence of such conduct on the complainant and/or the university community. The University shall take steps to prevent retaliation and shall take strong, responsive action to threats or acts of retaliation. Individuals who, in bad faith, deliberately make false or malicious accusations of violation of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment and/or expulsion from the University. A finding of no violation by the investigator(s) does not in itself constitute proof of a false or malicious accusation. The University may discipline any person who is found to have violated this policy.

Freedom of Speech and Peaceful Assembly

Policy

Because free expression and the free exchange of ideas are central to the goals of a university, Utah Valley University is committed to the principles of free speech and assembly guaranteed by the United States Constitution and the Utah Constitution, and in accordance with generally accepted concepts of academic freedom. The University is committed to protecting and enhancing the free exchange of ideas and to artistic expression, the right to free speech, and academic freedom in the University and on the university campus without prior restraint or censorship, subject to limitations on unlawful/unprotected speech and to clearly stated, reasonable, and nondiscriminatory rules regarding time, place, and manner.

Preparation Strategies

  • Plan your peaceful assemblies through the Dean of Students Office
  • Reserve an appropriate location from the list below
  • Schedule appropriate amplification, if necessary
  • Contact University Police for traffic and crowd control, if necessary
  • Post fliers and/or cardboard signs according to the University Signage Policy
  • Pay rental charges, if required
  • Commit to obey local, state and federal laws and University policies
  • Agree not to disrupt the educational process of the University

Prohibitions

  • Disruption or obstruction of university functions, organized meetings, or other assemblies in such a way as to invade the rights of others to assemble and the rights of speakers to free expression
  • Violence
  • Assemblies inside buildings where minors or vulnerable populations are predominantly present
  • Damage to University or private property
  • Use of administrative or academic offices
  • Jeopardizing public order or safety
  • Interference with entrances and exits to buildings or the normal flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic
  • Interference with classes and teaching, and activities related to teaching or research

Penalties

Persons violating the time, place, and manner restrictions relating to protests and demonstrations may be subject to arrest or other action authorized by law after notice is given of the restrictions being violated and the personas refuse to cease and desist. Student violations of UVU Policy 541 Student Code of Conduct may face disciplinary action.

Locations Appropriate For Peaceful Assembly

Locations are subject to availability; some locations may not be available at all times due to previously scheduled engagements. Speakers may speak in any outdoor area, as long as such speech does not violate time, place, and manner restrictions in UVU policy 161 section 4.8.6.

Locations include rooms inside the Sorensen Student Center, Grand Ballroom, Theater, Centre Stage or meeting rooms; Athletic fields/Lawn areas; Events Center: Arena, or Presidential Level; Student Life and Wellness Center Plaza; and Pope Science Courtyard

Scheduling

Although it is not necessary for persons planning protests, demonstrations, or speakers to obtain prior permission from the University, the University encourages such personals to contact the campus Event Services to reserve or schedule a place in advance to ensure availability.

UVU Event Services, SC 103, 801-863-8612
Events Center Scheduling, EC Concourse, 801-863-8767

Sound equipment shall be used only at volume levels that so not disrupt or disturb teaching, research, or other duly authorized meetings or activities at the University, and in accordance with city ordinances.

Utah Safety Law

In 1965 the Utah State Legislature passed a law requiring every student, teacher, and visitor in any public or private school to wear industrial quality eye protection devices while participating in or observing the following: industrial educational activities involving hot or molten metals; operation of machinery or equipment that may throw particles of foreign matter into the eyes; heating, treating, tempering, or kiln firing of industrial materials; chemistry or physics laboratories when using caustic, explosive, or hot chemicals, liquids, or solids.

Catalog catalog@uvu.edu (801) 863-8000 Room BA-113