For college students, getting a DUI can mean much more than time in jail and hefty fines. University students can lose their scholarships, face academic sanctions or even get kicked out of school. Many universities enforce codes of student conduct and policies that outline strict rules about alcohol use on campus, including underage drinking. Some schools have a dry campus, which means they ban alcohol completely. Students are normally required to agree to these terms upon enrollment. In many of these student policies, DUIs are specifically listed as a violation of student codes of conduct. When not specifically listed, they can fall under a violation of federal, state, or municipal law. The breaking of such laws is considered a breach of many universities’ codes of conduct. These regulations are designed to dissuade students from making potentially life-threatening decisions and to avoid the severe legal complications of getting a DUI or other alcohol-related charges. Also, most schools offer alcohol education courses, substance abuse counseling, and safe ride services as preventative measures. Many of Oklahoma’s universities, both state and private, have student codes and alcohol policies in place on their campuses. University of Oklahoma alcohol policy The University of Oklahoma takes a staunch stance on alcohol use and incidents on and off the Norman campus. The dry campus requires all enrolled students to follow federal, state and local laws. Students must also respect the guidelines set forth in the OU Student Code of Conduct and Student Alcohol Policy. OU’s alcohol policy includes a “three strike” program that outlines the course taken by the university when dealing alcohol-related incidents. DUIs are considered a violation of this policy. If the university is made aware of any alcohol policy infraction made by a student or campus organization, the Office of Student Conduct investigates the event. If the allegation is true, the student receives a “strike” and may face fees, parental notification if the student is under the age of 21, and mandatory alcohol education training, among other stipulations. Repeat strikes may earn more severe penalties, including suspension. Notably, students who have received a complete sanction against the conduct code are prohibited from participating in OU’s study abroad programs. Typically, when a student receives a DUI charge, the student conduct procedures are put on hold until the student has gone through the legal system off campus. While the code has strict guidelines, the Student Conduct Office hopes to lead students to make choices that avoid violating student codes. “The philosophy of everyone in this office is to help students make better decisions in order to graduate successfully,” Director of Student Conduct Steven Ashmore says. “We focus on the students and do what we can to help them be successful.” OU offers a wide range of alcohol abuse and DUI preventative services, including the Safe Ride program, alcohol education for incoming freshmen and transfer students, and counseling services. For more information about OU student codes and the alcohol policies, reference the OU Office of Student Conduct policy page. Oklahoma State University alcohol policy Oklahoma State University’s student codes and policies require students to follow federal, state, and local laws concerning alcohol use. Possession and use of alcohol on university grounds is prohibited unless otherwise specified. Driving while under the influence, on or off campus, is considered a code violation, according to the OSU Student Code of Conduct. If the university is made aware of a violation, officials will investigate and possibly conduct a hearing. In severe cases of student code violations, the student may be suspended and parents are notified, among other penalties. Like OU, OSU offers education and counseling services to students struggling with alcohol abuse. OSU University Counseling Services offers alcohol and substance abuse counseling to students who need help. For a full review the OSU codes of student conduct and questions about alcohol use policies, contact the office of OSU Student Conduct Education and Administration. University of Central Oklahoma alcohol policy The University of Central Oklahoma requires students to follow federal, state, and local law. The UCO Code of Student Conduct specifically lists driving a vehicle while under the influence as a code violation. If a claim is made about student code violation, the Student Conduct Office will investigate the event. If the claim is accurate, the student found in violation may face differed suspension, fines, and parental notification. The UCO’s Division of Student Affairs offers resources for students concerned about their alcohol use. These services include referrals for alcohol use assessments, counseling, and other help. For questions about how DUI charge can violate student codes of conduct at UCO, contact the Student Conduct Office. Oklahoma City University alcohol policy Oklahoma City University prohibits all alcohol use on its campus. As outlined in the OCU Student Code of Conduct, students charged with violating a federal or state law on or off campus may face penalties through the university’s disciplinary offices. Offending students will have to pay fines and may be offered assistance from the University Counseling Center. Parental notification may also be given for students who are younger than 21. Like many other schools in the state, prevention is a major theme on campus. OCU offers several forms of alcohol education each semester to students and provides counseling to those who might be struggling with alcohol abuse. For more information, refer to the OCU Student Handbook or the Dean of Students Office. Tulsa Community College alcohol policy Tulsa Community College’s Student Code of Conduct sets a basic standard of conduct that bans students from violating federal, state, or municipal laws. An infraction of the law made known to the university is considered a violation of the code of conduct. A student in violation may be reported to the Dean of Student Affairs office, which may result in interim suspension, an investigation and/or a hearing in front of the Student Conduct Hearing Committee. Like other universities, TCC offers several alcohol abuse prevention services to its students and faculty, including referrals to counseling. For more information, refer to the TCC Student Policies and Resources Handbook or contact the Office of Student Affairs. The consequences of DUI can quickly add up. If you find yourself dealing with the implications of a DUI charge, don’t handle your legal matters without an attorney. Get the defense you need. Contact us now for a free DUI defense consultation. Comments are closed.
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