University Administrative Policies align operations, set behavioral expectations institution-wide, and communicate roles and responsibilities. At Michigan Tech, university policies also enhance the University's mission and support shared governance.
The University Policy Office website houses all official university policies. It is the best place to find the most current versions of approved University Policy.
Policies are organized in a five-digit numerical system and housed under their respective category, which is explained in the Policy Format and Organization document.
A printed version of policies and procedures is available at the Office of Administration in Room 314 of the Lake Shore Center as well as the Documents Resource Room and the Archives of the J.R. Van Pelt & Opie Library.
Policy is a concise statement of the University's position and/or philosophy related to specific issues that have institution-wide impact.
Procedures are documented steps or activities that accomplish the goals and directives of a related policy.
Policy is the "what" and procedure is the "how."
Whether you are proposing a new policy or a revision to an existing policy, the first step in the process is the same. Meet with a senior staff or executive team member to obtain "concept approval." Then complete the University Policy Proposal Form and submit it to policy@mtu.edu for review.
The first step in the Pre-Development phase of the policy process involves "concept approval." Any member of the university community can suggest a new policy or revision to an existing policy. Concept approval takes place when the originator of the policy/policy change takes their concept to their senior staff or Executive Team member for support.
A policy in development or revision goes through a rigorous review and approval process during which time the procedures are also "fleshed out." Appropriate university constituents and stakeholders are consulted and there are often multiple drafts reviewed. Developing a new policy often takes six months or longer. Revising an existing policy can usually be done in a considerably shorter time frame, depending on the extent and nature of the modifications.
The University Policy Office communicates changes in order to reach as much of the campus community as possible. Announcements of new and revised policies and procedures are submitted to Tech Today and posted on the main page on the University Policy Office website. Additional communication is planned and initiated as appropriate.
If you have questions about current policies or the policy development process, please feel free to contact the University Policy Coordinator at 906-487-2980 or at policy@mtu.edu.