Financial Aid

Please view Return to Title IV (R2T4) and Withdrawal Process (PDF).

Please view the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy (PDF).

Please view the Admissions Policy (PDF).

Please view NIMAA's Financial Aid Code of Conduct (PDF).

Please see NIMAA's National Center for Educational Statistics' profile.

NIMAA is committed to creating and maintaining a community where all individuals who participate in the school’s programs and activities can work and learn together in an atmosphere free of harassment, exploitation, or intimidation. Every member of the community should be aware that NIMAA prohibits sexual harassment and sexual violence including dating violence, domestic violence,  sexual assault, and stalking, and that such behavior violates both law and school policy. NIMAA offers this awareness program in compliance with Clery Act Disclosure regulations.

Title IX Language:

“No person in the United States shall on the basis of  sex be excluded from participation in, be denied the  benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under  any educational program or activity receiving federal  financial assistance.” (Title IX of the Educational Amendment of 1972 - 32 C.F.R. § 106.31)

Who Do Title IX and VAWA Apply To?

• Everyone – Students, faculty, staff, visitors, volunteers, vendors
• Women, men, children

What?

• Sexual misconduct - sexual harassment, sexual violence, dating and/or domestic violence, stalking
• Gender-based harassment

Where or When?

• On Campus, off campus
• If it causes discrimination that impacts institutional programs and activities regardless of location

Statement of Policy

NIMAA prohibits discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, domestic and dating misconduct, and stalking, by or against any student or employee that occurs on the institution’s premises or in connection with a sponsored activity. This also applies to off-campus conduct that unreasonably interferes with the educational or orderly operation of the institution, its mission, or its objectives and off campus conduct that, in light of all of the facts and circumstances, would endanger the health and safety of the institution’s community.

Understanding what Constitutes Sexual Misconduct helps us to:

• Avoid behaviors that violate another person’s boundaries
• Know when your boundaries have been violated
• Recognize when someone needs help or should be held accountable for misconduct
• Know when to report a concern

Sexual Misconduct

• Sexual misconduct encompasses a spectrum of sexual violations and gender-based violence inclusive of sexual harassment, dating violence, domestic violence, rape, sexual assault, and stalking.
• These violations may occur between strangers or acquaintances, people involved in an intimate or sexual relationship, and people of the same or different sex.
• These violations may be committed by men or by women and against men or women.

Hostile Environment

Hostile environment is the term used to understand the impact of sex-based harassment (any form of sexual misconduct).

• An analysis for a hostile environment requires examination of the conduct from a subjective and objective perspective:
  • Was the conduct unwelcome?
  • Would a reasonable person in the complainant’s position perceive the conduct as undesirable or offensive?
• Factors to consider include:
• Type, frequency, duration of conduct
• Relationship of people involved
• Number of people involved
• Location of conduct and context in which it occurred
• Degree to which the conduct affected one or more people
• Sexual assault
• Sexual assault is actual or attempted physical contact of a sexual nature against someone’s will or without their consent.
• This includes but is not limited to:
  • Intentional sexual contact with another person without that person’s consent; or
  • Coercing, forcing, or attempting to coerce or force a person to touch another person’s intimate body parts without that person’s consent.
  • Rape of another individual. Rape is defined as penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without consent of the victim
• Consent
• Consent is an agreement, approval, or permission as to some act or purpose that is given knowingly, willingly, and voluntarily by a competent person.
• Lack of consent results from: forcible compulsion or incapacity to consent, or if the offense charged is sexual abuse, any circumstances in addition to the forcible compulsion or incapacity to consent in which the victim does not expressly comply.
• A person is deemed incapable of consent when that person is either less than sixteen years old, mentally incapacitated, or physically unable to resist.
• Silence by itself cannot constitute consent.

• Stalking

• Stalking is behavior in which a person repeatedly engages in conduct directed at a specific person that places that person in reasonable fear of their safety or the safety of others
• “Credible threat" means a threat of bodily injury made with the apparent ability to carry out the threat and with the result that a reasonable person would believe that the threat could be carried out.

Stalking may include but is not limited to:

• Excessive communications via text message, email, phone, social media, etc.
• Showing up often in places where the target plans to be or tends to frequent
• Inappropriate knowledge or awareness of the target’s schedule or past activities
• Anger or aggression when told to stop a stalking behavior or denied access to the target of the stalking target

• Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence or Abuse means the occurrence of one or more of the following acts between family or household members:

• Attempting to cause or intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causing physical harm to another with or without dangerous or deadly weapons;
• Placing another in reasonable apprehension of physical harm;
• Creating fear of physical harm by harassment, stalking, psychological abuse or threatening acts;
• Committing either sexual assault or sexual abuse; and
• Holding, confining, detaining or abducting another person against that person's will.

• Family or household members means
• Persons who are or were married to each other;
• Are or were living together as spouses;
• Are or were sexual or intimate partners;
• Are or were dating (a casual acquaintance or ordinary fraternization between persons in a business or social context does not establish a dating relationship);
• Are or were residing together in the same household; have a child in common regardless of whether they have ever married or lived together;
• Persons related by blood or marriage; or have the relationships by blood or marriage to a family or household member.

• Dating violence
• Dating violence is a crime of violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the complainant.
• Bystander Intervention
  • A bystander is someone other than the victim who is present when an act of sexual misconduct is occurring in which a reasonable person feels as though some protective action is required.
  • You could be a bystander.
  • Bystanders, if active, can prevent harm or intervene before a situation gets worse.
  • Bystanders play a crucial role in preventing and responding to sexual misconduct.
  • If it is safe to do so, create a distraction or intervene while additional help can be

contacted.

• If it is not safe to create a distraction or otherwise intervene, get help immediately by calling NIMAA personnel or local police.
• Identify yourself to police as a witness and provide your contact information.
• Support complainants by refraining from victim blame and by holding perpetrators accountable.
• Speak up when you hear people making inappropriate jokes or comments or incorrect statements about sexual misconduct and consent.

• Risk Reduction

Anyone can be sexually assaulted, and there are no sure means to prevent sexual assault. However, steps can be taken to reduce the likelihood that you or someone you know will be assaulted or will assault someone.

• Reduce the Risk of Committing Sexual Assault

1. Listen carefully. Take time to hear what the other person has to say. If you feel they are not being direct or are giving you a “mixed message” ask for clarification.
2. Don’t fall for the cliché “if they say no, they really mean yes.” If your partner says “no” to sexual contact, believe them and stop. If they seem uncomfortable or uncertain, stop and check in. It is never acceptable to force sexual activity, or to pressure, coerce, or manipulate someone into having sex, no matter the circumstances.
3. Don’t make assumptions about a person’s behavior. Do not assume that someone wants to have sex because of the way they are dressed, they drink (or drink too much), or agree to go to your home/room. Do not assume that if someone has had sex with you before they are willing to do so again. Also, do not assume that if your partner consents to kissing or other sexual activities, they are consenting to all sexual activities. Obtain clear consent for each sexual activity.
4. Be aware that having sex with someone who is mentally or physically incapable of giving consent is rape. If you have sex with someone who is drugged, intoxicated, passed out, or is otherwise incapable of saying no or knowing what is going on around them, you may be guilty of rape.
5. Remember sexual assault is a crime punishable via campus conduct, criminal, and civil proceedings.
6. Be careful in group situations; resist pressure from friends to participate in violent acts.
7. Get involved if you believe that someone is at risk. If you see someone in trouble or someone pressuring another person, do not be afraid to intervene or get help to do so.

• Reduce the Risk of Being Sexually Assaulted

1. Know your sexual intentions and limits. You have the right to say “NO” to any unwanted sexual contact. If you are uncertain of what you want, ask your partner to respect your feelings.
2. Communicate with your partner. Do not assume that someone will automatically know how you feel or will eventually “get the message” without you having to say anything. Just as it is okay to say “NO” to unwanted activities, it is okay and important to give clear consent to activities you would like to engage in. Avoid giving “mixed messages”; back up your words with a firm voice and clear body language (e.g., if you consent, give a big smile and say “YES!”).
3. Remember that some people think that drinking, dressing provocatively, or going to your or someone else’s home/room is saying you are willing to have sex. Be clear and up front about your limits in such situations.
4. Listen to your gut feelings. If you feel uncomfortable or think you might be at risk, leave the situation immediately and go to a safe place.
5. If you feel you are being pressured or coerced into sexual activity, you have a right to state your feelings &/or leave the situation. If you are concerned about the other person becoming angry, it is okay to make up an excuse to leave or create time to get help.
6. Attend large parties with friends you trust. Agree to “look out” for one another. Leave with the group, not alone. Avoid leaving with people that you do not know very well.

Duty to Report

Responsible Employees

All responsible employees must report any information of sexual misconduct to the Title IX officers.

Responsible employees include:

• School Director
• Associate Director of Education
• Business Manager
• Distance Education Manager
• Director or Business & Partnership Development
• Director of Curriculum
• Faculty members

Reports assist the institution with:

• Keeping an accurate record of the number of reported incidents
• Determining any pattern of sexual misconduct regarding a particular location, method, or offender
• Alerting the campus community to potential danger(s)
• Initiating an investigation/ hearing/ review process when appropriate

If you are questioning whether to report something, assume:

• Every report must be processed even if it appears unreasonable on its face
• Prejudgment is not acceptable regardless of the reasonableness of conduct
• Unreasonable complaints will still require sufficient documentation to support the discharge of claim
• Multiple reports without sufficient information may cumulatively permit a comprehensive investigation and response
• Retaliation is not tolerated

Confidentiality:

Disclosure of any amount of information is considered notice / a complaint:

• Based on the nature of the report, the institution will investigate and respond and may be obligated to do so with or without the complainant’s involvement.
• Will be maintained to the extent possible
• Cannot be assured to a complainant or witness
• Will not be maintained where there is an obligation to assure community safety through a continued investigation.
• While limits on confidentiality may be alarming to victims, their concerns can be mitigated by:
  • taking appropriate steps to assure safety
  • assuring regular updates
  • allowing the victim to choose their own level of participation
  • discussing our zero-tolerance retaliation policy

Retaliation

• Retaliation is harassing behavior or negative consequences targeted at a complainant or witness by the accused or by others either on behalf of or due to affiliation with the accused.
• The institution prohibits retaliation against any individual who in good faith makes a complaint, assists a complainant in the filing of sex discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual misconduct, or participates as a witness in a proceeding.
• Victims and the accused must be made aware that retaliation will not be tolerated.
• Victims and witnesses should contact the Title IV Officers if they fear for their immediate safety.
• Victims and witnesses should contact the Title IX Officers if they experience or suspect retaliatory behavior.
• Accused individuals must have a clear understanding that retaliation includes conduct by others on their behalf.

Investigation Process

• After receiving a report of sexual misconduct the institution will:
• Promptly investigate the report (independent of law enforcement)
• Conduct fair, unbiased, and objective investigations
• Take appropriate steps to resolve the situation
• Identify actions to prevent the recurrence of similar incidents in the future

Clery Warnings

• Timely warnings are required for serious and continuing threats
• Emergency notifications are required for any immediate threats

The Investigation

• Investigation will be adequate, reliable, and impartial
• Standard of Review: More likely than not that, an act occurred based on a preponderance of the evidence.
• Interim measures: Will be considered throughout the process

Common Victim/Survivor Responses

Responses following sexual or interpersonal victimization vary widely and may not look like victimization.  Some common responses may include but are not limited to:

• Self-blaming
• Attempting to have a normal relationship with the perpetrator
• Minimizing the experience
• Changing thoughts (and statements) about the perpetrator’s actions over time
• Seeking corrective sexual or intimate experiences with the perpetrator or others
• Acting out sexually and/or engaging in other high risk behaviors
• Isolating
• Self-harming
• Engaging in social activism to combat sexual violence
• Seeking revenge or experiencing revenge fantasies
• Experiencing a range of emotions including fear, sadness, shame, anger, and aggression
• Note: Trauma impacts how we think and organize information. Anyone can become a victim although perpetrators tend to target people who are emotionally or physically vulnerable, submissive, distracted, and/ or unlikely to report victimization.

Resources

• CDC Sexual Violence on Campus: Strategies for Prevention, 2016 (https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/campussvprevention.pdf)

• Colorado Department of Human Services. (n.d.). Domestic Violence Program. Retrieved March 11, 2022, from https://cdhs.colorado.gov/our-services/child-and-family-services/domestic-violence-program

• Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). MDHHS safety & injury prevention domestic & sexual violence. MDHHS - Help for Domestic and Sexual Violence Victims. Retrieved March 11, 2022, from https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-71548_7261-17541--,00.html#:~:text=Help%20is%20available.,800%2D787%2D3224%20TTD.

• National Network to End Domestic Violence. (n.d.). Violence against women act. NNEDV. Retrieved March 11, 2022, from https://nnedv.org/content/violence-against-women-act/

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE

• “Not Alone: The First Report of The White House Task Force to Protect Students From Sexual Assault,” April 2014 (https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/1is2many/notalone)

• Pennsylvania Coalition against Domestic Violence. (2019, March 19). Find your local domestic violence program. PCADV. Retrieved March 11, 2022, from https://www.pcadv.org/find-help/find-your-local-domestic-violence-program/

• Pennsylvania Government. (n.d.). Domestic Violence & Crisis Prevention. Department of Human Services. Retrieved March 11, 2022, from https://www.dhs.pa.gov/Services/Assistance/Pages/Domestic-Violence.aspx

• “Questions and Answers on Title IX and Sexual Violence,” United States Department of Education, July 2021 (https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/202107-qa-titleix.pdf)

• “Sexual Harassment Guidance” United States Department of Education Office for Civil Rights: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/sexhar00.html

• The United States Government. (2022, March 1). Office on Violence against Women (OVW). The United States Department of Justice. Retrieved March 11, 2022, from https://www.justice.gov/ovw

• Violence Free Colorado. (2021, July 20). Domestic Violence Programs in Colorado. Violence Free Colorado. Retrieved March 11, 2022, from https://www.violencefreecolorado.org/resources-2/

Contact Information for Assistance in Obtaining Institutional or Financial Aid Information: Contacts for financial aid information are found on the financial aid page: https://www.nimaa.edu/financial-aid/. Other NIMAA staff contact information may be found here: https://www.nimaa.edu/about-nimaa/nimaa-team/

Student Financial Aid Information: Information relating to Title IV and HEA loans, need and non-need-based financial assistance availability and exit counseling are found on the NIMAA Financial Aid handbook:

https://www.nimaa.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Financial-Aid-Policies-Handbook-NIMAA-6.18.22.pdf

Military Benefits can be found on the NIMAA financial aid page: https://www.nimaa.edu/financial-aid/

Terms, conditions, disbursement methods, and rights/responsibilities relating to financial aid programs and Title IV loans can be found at: https://www.nimaa.edu/financial-aid/

Disability – Maintenance of Student Records

The Associate Director of Education is responsible for receiving and maintaining the disability-related documentation and information for students with disabilities at the National Institute for Medical Assistant Advancement (NIMAA).  The documentation and information may include test data; psychological, psychoeducational and/or neuropsychological evaluations; grades; transcripts; biographical history; case notes; and any other disability-related information necessary to document and provide adjustments/accommodations to students with disabilities.

As per statute, files for students with disabilities will be maintained separately from other student files. Students with disabilities have a right to review their file.  A student who wishes to review his or her file must schedule an appointment with the Associate Director of Education.  Students may request and receive copies of case notes, accommodation forms, and other documentation from the Associate Director of Education. However, students will not be provided copies of disability-related documentation from their files. Disability-related documentation is defined as any documentation given to the Associated Director of Education to substantiate the student's disability status and need for adjustments/accommodations (e.g., psychological, psychoeducational, neuropsychological or medical evaluations; letters or other information from physicians; or medical records).  The Director will retain a copy of all information within a student's file.

Disability-related documentation (as defined above) is treated confidentially and will not be released to anyone not involved in the adjustment/accommodation and service-delivery process with the following exceptions:

(a) The student gives the Associate Director of Education a signed release to share disability-related information with the person(s) or office(s) named on the release;

(b) The Associated Director of Education will release disability-related information as required and/or permitted by the law and/or a court order;

(c) The student threatens to harm himself or herself or others, or is suspected of abuse of a child or incapacitated adult; and (d) the student files a disability-related complaint, appeal, grievance or lawsuit against a NIMAA office or employee(s).

Only the Associate Director of Education’s staff has direct access to student disability–related files.  When a student with a disability requests adjustments/accommodation, the student understands that some disability-related information may be provided on a need-to-know basis to NIMAA faculty and staff to help ensure that the student receives appropriate adjustments/accommodations.

The staff and the instructors of classes for which the student is requesting adjustments/accommodations will receive disability-related information necessary to provide appropriate adjustments/accommodations. If a student files a disability-related appeal or grievance, the student understands that the Associate Director of Education will release disability-related information to appropriate school offices (e.g. Student Services). Otherwise, NIMAA faculty and staff need to know only (1) that the student has been through the disability documentation review process; and (2) what adjustments/accommodations have been approved to meet the student's disability-related needs.

Disability Policy—Reasonable Accommodations

The Americans with Disability Act (ADA) requires an institution of higher education to provide reasonable accommodations to a qualified individual with a documented disability, unless accommodations would result in an undue burden or fundamentally alter the nature of the relevant course of programs. The National Institute for Medical Assistant Advancement (NIMAA) is fully committed to provide reasonable auxiliary aids to qualified individuals with a documented disability.

Accommodation Policies for Students with Disabilities 

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 state that qualified students with disabilities who meet the technical and academic standards of NIMAA may be entitled to reasonable accommodations to foster their academic success. Under these laws, a disability is defined as any physical or mental impairment which substantially limits a major life activity. It is NIMAA’s intention to provide equal access to education so that all students can participate in the academic offerings. The ADA ensures access to all aspects of the academic arena and mandates that auxiliary aids and services be provided to students unless these accommodations place an undue hardship (defined as significantly difficult or expensive) upon the institution.

The ADA requires that each student be professionally assessed to determine whether a disability exists. The student is responsible for the cost of this assessment. It is also the student’s responsibility to provide the appropriate documentation and to request adjustments/accommodations and services as recommended by their professional assessment. NIMAA may request specific professional credentials for the required assessments.

The law regarding reasonable adjustments/accommodations is meant to allow students with a disability to be on an equal playing field with their nondisabled classmates.

Adjustments/accommodations must be made without affecting the integrity of the school’s academic programs.

Students who desire special adjustments/accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act must disclose their special needs with their Admissions Representative at the time of their enrollment. When feasible, NIMAA will make accommodations as suggested in the student’s required professional assessment.

The student has the right to file a written complaint to the ADA Committee if they feel that NIMAA has not complied with the American Disabilities Act/Rehabilitation Act. The student may then file a grievance with NIMAA if they believe that the School has not followed its policies. Please see the Catalog for the grievance procedure.

It is expected that students claiming a disability actively communicate their needs during the admissions process. The applicant should inform the School of any disability upon enrollment to allow the school time to investigate the applicant’s needs, make a judgment regarding the feasibility of accommodations, and to carry through with these adjustments. It is a requirement that the applicant must have completed all parts of the enrollment process and paid the enrollment fees prior to requesting accommodations/adjustments. The applicant will be asked to meet with the ADA Committee if they express concern regarding their requested accommodations and they have not yet completed the enrollment process. It is important to be forthcoming regarding requests for accommodations to avoid delays in decision making and follow through.

The prospective student is responsible for communicating with the NIMAA regarding their disability. They are required to provide a report by a licensed medical professional detailing how the disability affects the student’s participation in the academic environment, including the online and externship environments, and required accommodations. The Director of Education will review the documentation and resolve whether NIMAA can adequately meet the applicant/student’s needs by making the requested accommodations without forfeiting the school’s academic integrity.

All information regarding disability is kept as confidential as permitted by law. Faculty members will be informed if it is necessary for their providing appropriate adjustments/accommodations to the student. The student will be required to give authorization for release of diagnostic information. Such information may be released, however, should the student proceed with a grievance.

Students who are not requesting an adjustment/accommodation but state that they do have a disability, should complete a Waiver of Adjustments/Accommodations form within the first two weeks of their enrollment or within two weeks of being diagnosed. This form should be submitted to the Director of Education and will be maintained in the student’s file.

ACADEMIC ADJUSTMENT/ACCOMMODATION PROCEDURES 

1. In addition to the required disability documentation, the following forms must be completed within the first two weeks of enrollment or within two weeks of being diagnosed with a disability (all signed forms must be released to the Director of Education):

1. Disability Registration
2. Statement of Confidentiality
3. Adjustments/Accommodations Request Form

1. Within two weeks of receipt, the Associate Director of Education will review all documentation and decide whether NIMAA can meet the student’s needs through the requested accommodations. The Associate Director of Education will retain a copy of all relevant documentation in the student’s file.

1. The student will be notified in writing regarding the outcome of this decision.

If the student has not submitted sufficient documentation to be granted accommodations, they are able to resubmit once they have all required documents.

1. If approved for accommodations, the Associate Director will speak with the current Instructor to ensure adjustments/accommodations are made. These adjustments/accommodations will be listed on the Approved Adjustments/Accommodations Form. The Associate Director will communicate with each new instructor and a new Approved Adjustments/Accommodations form will be completed as needed.

1. If it is determined that the student is ineligible for adjustments/accommodations, they may file a grievance with NIMAA. The grievance procedures are described in the NIMAA catalog.

CRITERIA FOR DISABILITY DOCUMENTATION 

It is the student’s responsibility to provide appropriate documentation to the ADA Committee for requesting adjustments/accommodations within the academic setting. Appropriate documentation is defined as inclusive of the following:

An evaluation report from a licensed treating medical doctor, mental health professional or other licensed professional as appropriate, which must include:

1. Stated diagnosis

1. Defined levels of functioning and any limitations on student’s academic performance caused by the disability

1. Current treatment

1. Official letter (on letterhead from professional; signed and dated within one year of date of request) stating specific recommended accommodations/adjustments.

NIMAA’s Copyright Infringement Policy was drafted to comply with copyright law for the use of copyrighted material on NIMAA’s computers, networks, and copiers. The policy makes users aware of the seriousness and consequences of unauthorized use of copyrighted material. The unauthorized use of copyrighted material is illegal.

All faculty, staff, and students are expected to be aware of and follow these requirements. Any member of the campus community practicing unauthorized use or distribution of copyrighted material is subject to sanctions by NIMAA up to dismissal or termination. Violators are subject to Federal criminal offenses for copyright law violations.

What is Copyright?

Copyright is a type of intellectual property that protects original works of authorship as soon as an author fixes the work in a tangible form of expression. In copyright law, there are a lot of different types of works, including paintings, photographs, illustrations, musical compositions, sound recordings, computer programs, books, poems, blog posts, movies, architectural works, plays, etc. (https://www.copyright.gov/what-is-copyright/)

It is illegal for anyone to violate any of the rights provided by the copyright law to the owner of the copyright. These rights, however, are not unlimited in scope. Sections 107 through 121 of the 1976 Copyright Act establish limitations on these rights. In some cases, these limitations are specified exemptions from copyright liability. One major limitation is the doctrine of ‘fair use,’ which is given a statutory basis in section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act. In other instances, the limitation takes the form of a ‘compulsory license’ under which certain limited uses of copyrighted works are permitted upon payment of specified royalties and compliance with statutory conditions. For further information about the limitations of any of these rights, consult the copyright law (http://www.loc.gov/copyright) or the U.S. Copyright Office (http://www.copyright.gov).

What Kinds of Activities Violate Federal Law?

The following are some examples of copyright infringement that may be found in a higher education setting:

• Downloading and peer-to-peer sharing of MP3 files of music, videos, and games without permission of the copyright owner.
• Using corporate logos without permission.
• Placing an electronic copy of a standardized test on a department’s website without permission of the copyright owner.
• Enhancing a departmental website with music that is downloaded or artwork that is scanned from a book, all without attribution or permission of the copyright owners.
• Scanning a photograph that has been published and using it without permission or attribution.
• Placing a number of full-text articles on a course web page that is not password protected and allowing the web page to be accessible to anyone who can access the Internet.
• Downloading licensed software from non-authorized sites without the permission of the copyright or license holder.
• Making a movie file or a large segment of a movie available on a website without permission of the copyright owner.

Legal Alternatives to Unauthorized Downloading

The Higher Education Opportunity Act requires all institutions of higher education to offer legal alternatives to unauthorized downloading. The following website offers some legal alternatives: http://www.educause.edu/legalcontent

Summary of Civil and Criminal Penalties for Violation of Federal Copyright Laws

Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or “statutory” damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. A court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed for “willful” infringement. A court can, at its discretion, also assess costs and attorneys’ fees. For details, see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504, 505. Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to 250,000 per offense. For more information, please see the website of the U.S. Copyright Office: https://www.copyright.gov/

Computer File Sharing

An amendment to the Higher Education Act of 1965 requires institutions to have a plan to combat the illegal downloading of music, videos, and other copyrighted works on institutional networks. NIMAA takes this responsibility seriously. Each computer user should understand what material is illegal or legal and what sites are authorized distributors of copyrighted material. For example, popular sites such as iTunes, Rhapsody, Amazon, etc., have downloads available for a fee.

Any unauthorized or illegal downloads or unauthorized file sharing, including peer-to-peer file sharing, by any member of the NIMAA community subjects that member to sanctions by NIMAA up to dismissal from school or termination of employment. Individuals are subject to federal criminal offenses for copyright law violations. For a full   list of offenses, visit http://www.copyright.gov/title17/92chap5.html

TRANSFER OF CREDIT POLICY  

Acceptance of Credits on Transfer 

Transfer of credits from other institutions accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Education Department or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, including military training, will be evaluated with the following considerations:

• All requests for transfer credits must be accompanied by an unofficial transcript and received by NIMAA prior to the student’s start date. NIMAA must receive the student’s official transcript within thirty (30) days post-enrollment or transferred credits may be forfeited and the student will have to take the respective course at NIMAA.

• Evaluation will be on a case-by-case basis to ensure that the content of the course(s) and the academic period length are sufficiently comparable to that of a related NIMAA course.
• A grade of “C” or better or a grade of “Pass” must have been earned in the course.
• Students who transfer in credits must complete:

• A minimum of 60% of the online coursework required for graduation at NIMAA.
• The complete externship requirement (240 hours) for Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) at a NIMAA externship organization. Students can find the SAP policy in the NIMAA catalog.

• Credits from another institution accepted by NIMAA shall be counted as both hours attempted and completed for calculation of pace and maximum time frame. Grades associated with these credits are not included in calculating cumulative grade point average.
• A decision regarding a prospective student’s transfer of credit evaluation will be provided within 14 calendar days.
• A student who receives transfer credits will have the program tuition charge prorated based upon the remaining number of credits (where credits are equivalent to clock hours as defined in Course Descriptions) the student must earn in order to graduate.

When credit transfers are approved by NIMAA, the student will still be required to audit (complete) all NIMAA coursework they received credit for. The student’s grades for audited coursework will not be included in the cumulative grade point average but will be checked for completion.

Acceptance of credits earned at another institution that is not located in the United States or its territories will be evaluated by an agency which attests to the qualitative and quantitative equivalency of the foreign education and the specific course or courses for which transfer credit is to be awarded. It is the student’s responsibility to use the credential evaluation services of an agency that has published standards for membership, affiliations to international higher education associations, and are frequently linked to and used by federal agencies, state agencies, educational institutions and employers (e.g., NACES and AICE).

NIMAA does not accept advanced placement credit or grant credit for experiential learning or life experience.

Transfer hours accepted by the school are applied to the total number of hours necessary to complete the program and are considered both attempted and completed hours for the purpose of determining when the allowable maximum time frame has been exhausted. Satisfactory Academic Progress evaluation periods are based on actual contracted hours at the institution. For transfer students attending less than a full academic year, an evaluation will be done at the midpoint of the actual hours.

Acceptance of credits earned at another institution that is not located in the United States or its territories will be evaluated by an agency which attests to the qualitative and quantitative equivalency of the foreign education and the specific course or courses for which transfer credit is to be awarded. It is the student’s responsibility to use the credential evaluation services of an agency that has published standards for membership, affiliations to international higher education associations, and are frequently linked to and used by federal agencies, state agencies, educational institutions and employers (e.g., NACES and AICE).

Transfer of Credit to Other Schools 

NIMAA does not imply or guarantee that credits completed at the Institute will be accepted by or transferable to any other school, college, university, or institution. It should not be assumed that any hours for courses described in this catalog can be transferred to another institution. Hours earned in the online or externship courses are unlikely to transfer to another institution. Each institution has its own policies governing the acceptance of credit from other institutions. Students seeking to transfer credits earned at NIMAA should contact the educational institution to which they seek admission to inquire about their policies on credit transfer.

Notification of Rights under FERPA for Postsecondary Institutions. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford eligible students certain rights concerning their education records. FERPA defines the rights of students to review their records, request a change to their records, and provide written consent to disclose personally identifiable information to a third party. (An “eligible student” under FERPA is a student who is 18 years of age or older or who attends a postsecondary institution.) These rights include:

1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days after the day NIMAA receives an access request.
   • A student should submit to the NIMAA Student Services Manager a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The Student Services Manager will arrange for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records are available for review.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.

• A student who wishes to ask the school to amend a record should write the Student Services Manager, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants to be changed, and specify why it should be changed.
• If NIMAA decides not to amend the record as requested, NIMAA will notify the student in writing of the decision and the student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing

3. The right to provide written consent before NIMAA discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

• School Officials with Legitimate Educational Interests: One example of an exception to the consent requirement under FERPA is the exception for the disclosure of personally identifiable, non-directory information to school officials with legitimate educational interests. NIMAA discloses education records to these persons without a student’s prior written consent.
  • A school official is a person employed by NIMAA in an administrative, supervisory, academic, or support staff position; a person or company with whom NIMAA has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using NIMAA team members or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Directors; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee or assisting another school official in performing tasks.
  • A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for NIMAA.
• Health and Safety: Another example of an exception to the consent requirement under FERPA is the exception for the disclosure of personally identifiable information to the appropriate parties (e.g., law enforcement officials, trained medical personnel, public health officials, and parents) to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals. To qualify under this exception, the situation must present an actual, impending, or imminent danger to the student or other individuals. This action is not taken lightly and personally identifiable, non-directory information will only be disclosed under this exception under circumstances that present an actual, impending, or imminent danger. This exception is limited to the period of the emergency.
• Directory Information: NIMAA may also disclose directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, without written consent unless a student has expressly opted out.  Students may opt-out of directory information disclosures by signing a Directory Information Opt-Out Form in the Student Information System.
  • NIMAA has designated the following information as Directory Information:
    • Student’s name
    • Email address
    • Address
    • Telephone listing
    • Photograph
    • Program of study
    • Dates of attendance
    • Degrees, honors, and awards received
    • Student ID number
  • Other Schools: NIMAA upon request may disclose directory information, without consent, to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll or has enrolled.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by NIMAA to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC  20202-5901

Introduction

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act requires that institutions of higher education certify that they have adopted and implemented a drug and alcohol prevention program as a condition of receiving funding under any federal program. Specifically, the law requires a biennial review by the institution of its programs to determine the effectiveness of its efforts. The material included in this document is designed to fulfill the requirement for a biennial review (2019-2021) of drug and alcohol policies, prevention programs and associated discipline and law enforcement practices implemented by NIMAA. This information is also available as part of the annual security report and it is reproduced in that document as well. Notice of availability of this information is provided to all active faculty, students, and staff on an annual basis. Notice of availability of this information is distributed to all students, faculty, and staff with all pertinent documentation.

Policy Revisions

There were no reported drug and/or alcohol violations on NIMAA property since the implementation of NIMAA’s Drug and Alcohol Prevention program. This is NIMAA’s first year as a Title IV eligible school and for this reason, there are no policy revisions at this time. NIMAA is offering its program via distance education only, thus an extensive revision of the policy is not required.

Policies Regarding the Possession, Use, and Sale of Alcohol or Illegal Drugs

The use of illegal drugs or the abuse of alcohol on NIMAA’s offices or partner externship organizations is prohibited by school regulations, and antithetical to NIMAA’s goal of providing a healthy and compliant environment for students, faculty, staff, and guests. The following information is provided in compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989.

Health Risks Commonly Associated with the Use of Alcohol:

Short Term Risks-

Alcohol slows reaction time, decreases muscle coordination, and impairs vision. As a result, the risk of accidents and injuries, including traffic accidents- a leading cause of death for teens- also increases. Alcohol abuse can result in nausea; gastritis; unconsciousness or blackout; fatal overdose; or death by aspiration of vomit.

Long Term Risks-

Long term alcohol abuse can result in a myriad of physiological and psychological health risks, including but not limited to:

• Cancers of the mouth, throat, breast, and other internal organs
• Cardiovascular stress and increased blood pressure
• Brain damage Liver damage
• Birth defects, increased chance of miscarriage, fetal alcohol syndrome Testicular atrophy and breast enlargement in men
• Drinking heavily can significantly shorten a person’s life

Health Risks Commonly Associated with the Use of Drugs:

Cannabis (Marijuana, Hashish)

• Lung function impairment
• Short term memory impairment
• Psychological addiction
• Anxiety, depression, schizophrenic trigger for those with a preexisting vulnerability

Depressants (Barbiturates, Tranquilizers, Prescription Sedatives, Sleeping Medication)

• Confusion, loss of coordination, depression
• Dependence, addiction, mood alteration
• Overdose, coma, death
• Effects exacerbated when combined with alcohol

Hallucinogens (LSD, PCP, DMT, STP, Mescaline, Peyote, Salvia, Ketamine)

• Tolerance, leading to overdose, leading to convulsion, coma, death
• Hallucinations, potentially leading to panic and irrational behaviors

Inhalants (Aerosols, Glue, Paint and Thinners, Nitrites (Poppers) *Effects contingent on exact substance

• Brain, lung, throat, liver, and bone marrow damage
• Confusion, loss of coordination, delirium, psychosis
• Convulsions, death

MDMA (Ecstasy)

• Euphoria, increased energy, alertness, tactile sensitivity, empathy, decreased fear
• Anxiety, arrhythmia, chills, sweating, impaired motor function
• Reduced appetite, cramps, teeth grinding/clenching
• Hyperthermia, rhabdomyolysis, death

Narcotics (Prescription, Heroin, Codeine, Opium)

• Malnutrition
• Increased risk of contracting Hepatitis, STDs, AIDS, pneumonia Loss of judgment, self-control, sense of self
• Dependence, overdose, convulsions, death

Stimulants (Prescriptions, Cocaine, Methamphetamine)

• Tolerance, physical dependence, psychological addiction
• Malnutrition
• Hallucination, confusion, intense mood swings, aggression, depression

Synthetic Cathinones (Bath Salts, Flakka, Bloom, Cloud Nine, Lunar Wave, Vanilla Sky, White Lightning, Scarface)

• Paranoia
• Hallucinations
• Panic attacks
• Excited delirium—extreme agitation and violent behavior
• Nosebleeds
• Nausea, dehydration, kidney failure, death

Sanctions:

NIMAA in policy, procedure, and practice- seeks to uphold local, state, and federal laws. While operating within the permitted scope of these laws, NIMAA will apply sanctions and disciplinary action to those students and employees who violate the established policy regarding illegal or unauthorized use of alcohol and controlled substances. This may include but is not limited to academic suspension, expulsion, dismissal, disciplinary hearings, or referral for prosecution. Disciplinary sanctions may include the completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program, at the student's or employee's expense, if necessary.

Sanctions for the State of Colorado

In addition to NIMAA policies, students and employees must also abide by the local, state, and federal drug and alcohol laws. As members of the NIMAA community, students, faculty, and staff are also subject to city ordinances and to state and federal law. Arrest and prosecution for alleged violations of criminal law or city ordinances may result from the same incident for which NIMAA imposes disciplinary sanction.

Colorado State Laws & Sanctions

Colorado State Laws Governing Possession, Consumption and Sale of Alcohol

C.R.S. § 18-13-122

(2)(b) As used in this section, “ethyl alcohol” means any substance which is or contain ethyl alcohol.

(2)(e) “Possession of ethyl alcohol” means that a person has or holds any amount of ethyl alcohol anywhere on his or her person or that a person owns or has custody of ethyl alcohol or has ethyl alcohol within his or her immediate presence and control. (3)(a) A person under twenty-one years of age who possesses or consumes ethyl alcohol anywhere in the state of Colorado commits illegal possession or consumption of ethyl alcohol by an underage person. Illegal possession or consumption of ethyl alcohol by an underage person is a strict liability offense.

Colorado Liquor Codes 12-47-901

It is unlawful for any person to sell, serve, give away, dispose of, exchange, or deliver or permit the sale, serving, giving, or procuring of any alcohol beverage to or for any person under the age of twenty-one years.

Colorado Sanctions for Violation of Alcohol Control Statutes C.R.S. 12-47-901, 903, 18-1.3-501

1. Class 1 Misdemeanor - unlawful use of an identification card
2. Class 4 Felony - fictitious or unlawfully altered identification card
3. Class 4 Felony - fraudulent identification card
4. Class 2 Misdemeanor to possess or sell alcohol if you are under 21. *
5. Class 1 Misdemeanor to sell, give or deliver alcohol to individuals under 21 years of age. Local ordinances may also be enforced.

Class 1 Misdemeanors are punishable with a fine of $500.00 to $5000.00 and up to 18 months in the county jail.

Class 2 Misdemeanors are punishable with a fine of $250.00 to $1000.00 and up to 12 months in the county jail.

Colorado State Laws Governing Possession, Consumption, and Sale of Controlled Substances

C.R.S. §18-18-102, § 18-18-404

Except as is otherwise provided for offenses concerning marijuana and marijuana concentrate in sections 18-18-406 and 18-18-406.5, any person who uses any controlled substance, except when it is dispensed by or under the direction of a person licensed or authorized by law to prescribe, administer, or dispense the controlled substance for bona fide medical needs, commits a Colorado level 2 drug misdemeanor. These include (without limitation) commonly abused drugs, such as:

• Cocaine
• LSD,
• Heroin,
• Codeine,
• Vicodin,
• Oxycontin,
• Fentanyl,
• Amphetamine,
• Methamphetamine,
• Anabolic steroids,
• Ecstasy,
• GHB,
• Ketamine, and

C.R.S. § 18-18-405

It is unlawful for any person knowingly to manufacture, dispense, sell, or distribute, or to possess with intent to manufacture, dispense, sell, or distribute, a controlled substance; or induce, attempt to induce, or conspire with one or more other persons, to manufacture, dispense, sell, distribute, or possess with intent to manufacture, dispense, sell, or distribute, a controlled substance; or possess one or more chemicals or supplies or equipment with intent to manufacture a controlled substance.

Sanctions for the State of Pennsylvania

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Law - State law prohibits, among other things, the unauthorized manufacture, sale, delivery, and possession of controlled substances. Consistent with federal law, Pennsylvania classifies controlled substances according to Schedules I through V. Penalties vary according to the type of controlled substance involved. For simple possession of a small amount of marijuana (misdemeanor), persons may be subject to 30 days imprisonment and a $500 fine. A person may be subject to a maximum of 15 years imprisonment and a $25,000 fine for the manufacture, delivery or possession of a Schedule I or II controlled drug such as cocaine, PCP or LSD (felony). Sentences can be doubled for second and subsequent offenses. Sentences can also be doubled for the distribution of controlled offenses to persons under the age of eighteen. Penalties range from a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years and a $50,000 fine for subsequent convictions for the manufacture, delivery, or possession of 100 grams or more of a Schedule I or II controlled narcotic drug.

Pennsylvania Marijuana Possession Penalties Possession of Marijuana Penalties in PA are as follows:

• For 30 grams or less, you face misdemeanor charges of up to 30 days in jail and a fine of $500.
• For possession of more than 30 grams, the penalties go up to 1 year in jail and $5000 in fines—automatic six-month loss of license.
• If you are a first-time marijuana offender, it is possible to get probation without a verdict. For a second (2nd) offense possession charges, or multiple subsequent offenses, the penalties may double.
• If you have more than 30 grams of marijuana, you run the risk of being charged with possession with intent to deliver or distribute in many cases.

Pennsylvania Drug Possession Penalties Possession of other Controlled Substances Penalties (Heroin, Cocaine, LSD/Acid, Ecstasy/MMDA, Meth, and prescription drugs including Vicodin and Oxycontin or illegal steroids):

• Up to one year in prison and/or a $5,000 fine first (1st) offense.
• Up to two years in prison for a second (2nd) offense.
• Up to three years in prison for a third (3rd) offense. Possession of more than five grams of crack (cocaine) may be subject to a minimum penalty of 5 years in prison.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, or Selling/distributing marijuana

• Up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2500.
• For selling to a minor, under Pennsylvania Drug Laws, it can be a felony charge of up to 2 years in jail and a $5000 fine.

Sanctions for the State of Michigan:

Michigan law prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, possession, use, or sale of a controlled substance. If an individual is found guilty of a violation of the state law, they may be subject to fines and/or imprisonment.

A minor may not purchase or attempt to purchase alcoholic liquor, consume, or attempt to consume alcoholic liquor, possess, or attempt to possess alcoholic liquor or have any bodily alcohol content. Violation of the law may subject a minor to fines, participation in a substance abuse program or treatment center, imprisonment, community service hours, and/or out-of-pocket expenses related to required substance abuse screenings.

Federal Sanctions:

Federal penalties and sanctions for illegal possession of a controlled substance include the following:

First conviction: up to 1 year in prison, fine of $1,000 to $100,000, or both.

Second conviction: at least 15 days and up to 2 years imprisonment, $5,000 to $250,000 fine, or both.

After two drug convictions: at least 90 days and up to 3 years in prison, $5,000 to $250,000 fine, or both.

Special federal sentencing provisions for possession of crack cocaine include a mandatory prison term of at least 5 years and up to 20 years, fine of up to $250,000, or both, for a first conviction if the amount of crack exceeds 5 grams, for a second conviction if amount exceeds 3 grams, and for a third or subsequent conviction if the amount exceeds 1 gram.

Additional federal sanctions may also apply including forfeiture of vehicles used to transport controlled substances, denial of federal benefits including student loans, grants, and contracts and denial or revocation of certain federal licenses and benefits

Convictions for Drug-Related Offenses

Any student convicted of any drug-related criminal statute must notify the Associate Director of Education, in writing, no later than five (5) days after such conviction regardless of where the offense occurred. Under federal and state laws, any student convicted of a drug-related felony offense must be denied all federal and state assistance, including Pell Grants and Scholarships for Children/Spouses of Deceased/Disabled Veterans. However, a criminal conviction shall not be necessary to find that a student has violated these standards of conduct, and NIMAA need not, and ordinarily will not, defer its own actions and sanctions pending the outcome of any criminal proceeding.

Danger Signals That May Indicate a Drug or Alcohol Problem

Following is a list of classic danger signals that may indicate the presence of a drug or alcohol problem:

• Abrupt changes in mood or attitude
• Decreased efficiency at work or at school
• Frequent absences, tardiness, and/or early departures
• Relationship problems with family, friends, and co-workers
• Unusual outbursts of anger and hostility
• Social withdrawal

Counseling

If you observe any of these changes in yourself or another student or employee, you are encouraged to contact the Associate Director of Education. Abuse of alcohol or drugs can lead to dependency and addiction, with serious consequences for personal health and overall quality of life. . There are drug and alcohol counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation facilities available in all areas where students and employees may seek advice and treatment.

Support and Treatment Resources

Students, faculty, or employees who wish to receive further counseling are encouraged to contact the following organizations for additional help:

National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Referral Routing Service: 7-800-662-HELP (4357) National Institute on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism – 301-443-3860 www.niaaa.nih.gov Drug-Free Workplace Helpline –800-967-5752 www.drugfreeworkplace.gov

National Institute of Mental Health – http://www.nimh.nih.gov/index.shtml

All statistics are collected and subject to interpretation based on the Federal Bureau of Investigation Uniform Crime Report classification system and the Denver City Police Department standards of crime statistic classification. For more information on crime statistic reporting and collection, contact your state or local law enforcement department.

**On-campus statistics reflect an aggregate of NIMAA crime log data and law enforcement-furnished data

***Public property statistics represent data collected solely from law-enforce or as reported directly to NIMAA’s representative.

• Graduation and retention numbers from IPEDS. Placement rates from annual surveys of participating employers.
• State-specific and disaggregated data can be viewed in the IPEDS report.

Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2023 Report (PDF)

NIMAA has full time staff available to assist students through the enrollment process and financial aid process, and can provide any disclosure information that is requested.

- Student body diversity data from IPEDS (PDF)

To see basic information about the NIMAA program and the student body demographics for NIMAA, please visit https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/ and search for National Institute for Medical Assistant Advancement.

Per federal regulations, NIMAA will hold itself to the highest levels of integrity and will not provide false, erroneous, or misleading statements to a student or prospective student, to the family of an enrolled or prospective student, or to the U.S. Department of Education. Each member of the NIMAA staff is responsible for and committed to assuring that the actions and activities conducted at the school promote an environment of integrity.

Published information on the NIMAA website and in marketing materials is reviewed carefully by multiple staff members and reviewed before every cohort of the NIMAA program for accuracy.

NIMAA’s financial team carefully monitors all financial aid documents for potential errors or discrepancies – including willful misrepresentations, or fraud. Per Federal regulations, NIMAA is required to report to the Department’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) any individual who is suspected of fraud, or deliberate misrepresentation of information which may affect an applicant’s eligibility for Title IV aid (see statute 34 CFR 668.16(g)(1)). In addition to reporting our suspicions to the OIG, we may also verify award eligibility for previous aid years; students may be required to repay some or all aid which has previously disbursed. Section 490(a) of the Higher Education Act outlines the potential penalties of financial aid fraud:

“Any person who knowingly and willfully embezzles, misapplies, steals, obtains by fraud, false statement, or forgery [...] or attempts to so embezzle, misapply, steal, obtain by fraud, false statement or forgery [...] shall be fined not more than $20,000 or imprisoned for not more than 5 years, or both, except if the amount so embezzled, misapplied, stolen, obtained by fraud, false statement, or forgery, or failed to be refunded does not exceed $200, then the fine shall not be more than $5,000 and imprisonment shall not exceed one year, or both.”

By accepting NIMAA’s financial aid award or receiving Title IV Financial Aid, students acknowledge and accept the above relevant statutes.

If you have a complaint related to the federal student aid programs, please see Federal Student Aid Ombudsmen Group.

This is the NIMAA Transcript Financial Hold Exemption Policy. Contact [email protected] with any questions.