Policy on Managing University Policies

The Northern Illinois University Policy on Managing University Policies (hereinafter “the Policy”) is designed to provide a transparent, consistent and inclusive mechanism for university policies to be in effect at the university. University policies are a higher level of authority than those developed within a division, college or administrative unit, or in an academic unit or center.

University policies shall not conflict with federal or state law or regulation or NIU Board of Trustee bylaws, regulations or policies.

Faculty, staff, and students are responsible for knowing, understanding, and complying with policies that relate to their position, employment, or enrollment at the University.

For a policy to be considered a university policy, it must be subject to public comment and approved by the designated approval authority. The following individuals/entities are designated as Policy Approval Authorities:

• The Board of Trustees is the ultimate jurisdictional authority
• The President, with delegated authority from the Board,
• The Faculty Senate has delegated authority for some academic matters, including approval of university curriculum, standards for student admissions and academic progress, and the process for faculty tenure and promotion.
• The University Council has delegated authority for some university policies and for amendments to NIU Bylaws.

The university will maintain a system which promotes the public comment of university policies if no system for such policy exists. The campus community will be notified of university policies that are being revised or newly implemented through this system.

University policies will be periodically reviewed for need, to mitigate conflicts, and to ensure compliance.

The Policy Library Committee is responsible for developing procedures to implement this Policy.