The University of Florida College of Nursing UFCN is a nursing school established in 1956 in Gainesville, Florida. UFCN is part of the University of Florida system, a public land-grant research university. The nursing school offers the BSN, DNP, and graduate PhD programs. Ranked high in Florida and nationwide, this nursing school maintains a reputation for excellence and offers top-tier programs for aspiring nursing students. As part of this institution, you can benefit from research, funding, and grant opportunities that pave the path for a successful future career. But to continue benefitting from its reputation and training opportunities, you must demonstrate professional and ethical behavior and avoid academic issues.
As a nursing student in one of Florida's top programs, you passed through a rigorous selection process while overcoming obstacles to start your education. But admissions is the first part of the journey – and mistakes happen along the way. And while making a mistake is part of the learning process, some violations differ in their complexity and repercussions. Accusations of academic, professional, or behavioral issues may cause significant drawbacks, like suspension or dismissal. With so much at stake, you need the Student Defense Team from the Lento Law Firm by your side. Contact them today through the online portal or call 888-535-3686 to discuss your case.
Behavioral and Academic Standards
UFCN has an extensive list of behaviors expected from its nursing students. It has separate student handbooks for graduate and undergraduate students outlining professionalism standards, the student honor code, and the adjudication process. To maintain its reputation, the nursing school imposes heavy repercussions for behavioral issues and lack of academic progression. In terms of behavior, students must abide by all rules relating to their ethical and professional responsibilities as future nurses. The same emphasis applies to performing well in your program. Students experiencing chronic progression issues and who cannot keep up with their peers face placement on probation and, if they cannot improve, dismissal from the program.
Student Honor Code and Professionalism
According to the undergraduate Student Handbook, nursing students must abide by the student honor code and take the pledge once they enroll. The Student Honor Code applies to all students attending any of UF's programs. The Honor Code has an extensive list of prohibited conduct that may lead to a hearing and formal sanctions. Some of the prohibited actions mentioned in the code include:
- Cheating and plagiarism
- Asking others to do an academic work on behalf of someone else
- Falsifying documents, data, or material
- Interfering with the learning process of other students
- Being disruptive during a testing environment
- Collaborating with others to violate the Student Code of Conduct
- Providing fake or misleading statements and information
- Invasion of privacy and taking unauthorized recordings of staff or peers
- Substance abuse violations
- Violating UF Regulations
- Destroying and damaging property
As for professionalism standards, the student handbook includes expectations regarding demeanor and attire. Some of the expectations listed include that students dress and act professionally at all times, reflecting their future roles as nurses.
Adjudication and Sanctions
According to the policy, those who believe that a student committed a violation may use any of the designated reporting pages on the UF website to make a report. The accused student then receives a Notice of Charges document with a resolution process outlined by the Director of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution or their designee. The student attends an information meeting and chooses “Not Responsible” for the charges; the matter escalates to a formal hearing. If the Director of Student Conduct believes that the matter may lead to a “Separation” from the university, the student may choose:
- An Individual Hearing Officer hearing
- A Student Conduct Committee Hearing
- Case resolution through a Greek Conduct Committee
The determination of the outcome lies in a majority vote. During the hearing, the student has the right to defend themselves against allegations using evidence, documents, and with the support of an advisor of the student's choosing. The advisor cannot play an active part in the hearing process but is there as a support person. The Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm helps you throughout this process, giving you a shoulder to rely on when you are facing a rigid panel.
If the committee finds the student guilty of the charges, they can issue one of the following sanctions:
- Academic sanctions such as imposing a grade penalty
- Course grade penalty with drop
- A written reprimand
- Conduct review status
- Probation
- Loss of university privileges
- Deferred Suspension
- Suspension
- Expulsion
- Educational Sanctions Residence hall transfer or removal
- No contact directive
- Withdrawing or Revoking a degree
Fortunately, students may challenge a decision by submitting a written appeal within ten business days of receiving notice of sanctions. However, to be eligible, you must file on the grounds that the sanctions are disproportionate. Once the Appeal Authority receives the request, they review the matter depending on the hearing process and committee type and issue their final decision.
Hiring a Student Defense Team
Being a nursing student at UFCN is a pathway to professional success. But if you face sanctions that threaten your future, it's essential to take action when you learn of charges against you. Regardless of the violation, you deserve to work with a Student Defense Team from the Lento Law Firm who work in your best interests.
The Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm has years of experience working with nursing students nationwide. Their passion, dedication, and knowledge of how hearing processes work are a solid shoulder to rely on when all seems lost.
With sanctions, you face reputation damage, financial losses, and potential barriers to a bright professional future. One mistake should not end your dreams of becoming a nurse. If you or someone you love face accusations of violations or academic issues at UFCN, don't wait until no action can help. Contact the Student Defense Team today, or call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686.
