Policy 804: Religious Observances Policy
Policy Number: 804
Date Approved: 02/04/2025
Executive Responsibility: Executive Committee
References: Wright State University Excused Absence Guidelines Policy 2330; Wright State University Religious Excused Absences Policy 3380; BSOM Absence Policy
804.1 Policy
The Boonshoft School of Medicine (BSOM) follows Wright State University’s Excused Absences for Religious Holidays and Observances policy (policy 2330.7) and Religious Excused Absences policy (policy 3380):
“It is the policy of Wright State University to welcome individuals from all different faiths, philosophies, religious traditions, and other systems of belief. In order to facilitate their free exercise and free observance of sincerely-held religious beliefs, practices, and events, exemptions from University policies may be requested and will be processed in accordance with this policy.”
Per the policy, upon advanced request, each student may be excused from class for up to three (3) days per academic term in order to attend or participate in religious activities. To request excusal under this policy, the student must notify their faculty, in writing and during the first fourteen (14) days of each academic term, of the date(s) of each absence. The request must state that the proposed absence is for the student to participate in religious activities. The request need not provide, and faculty shall not require students to disclose, additional details about the nature of the student’s religious beliefs or their activities on the date of the proposed absence. All requests must adhere to the BSOM Absence Policy. Students who require an excess of the three (3) days per academic term will be required to meet with the module/clerkship/elective director, the Associate Dean for Student Affairs & Admissions, and the Associate Dean for Medical Education to determine next steps.
The faculty and staff should be sensitive to the religious observances of students, so that students who excuse themselves from class on these days are not disadvantaged. It is the responsibility of the faculty and administration to make available to each student who is absent from school, because of his or her religious beliefs, an equitable opportunity to make up examinations, or other academic requirements.
The faculty and administration will make every effort to not schedule examinations on days of religious observance that have commonly created conflict for students, faculty and staff.