The regulations published in the Undergraduate Catalog are a digest of the rules of the institution. Changes may be made in the regulations at any time to promote the best interests of the university and its students. Students are responsible for knowing the published regulations, policies, and standards of the university and of their college or school.
Access to Students’ Educational Records
The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA or the Buckley Amendment) is a federal law that governs access to the students’ education records. This law grants students guaranteed access to their educational records; such access includes the right to inspect and review educational records, the right to obtain copies of the records (a copying fee may be charged), and the right to challenge or supplement information on file in order to prevent flawed interpretation. Certain records (i.e., medical records) are not deemed to be educational records and are therefore not accessible to students. Additionally, the Buckley Amendment prohibits the disclosure of “personally identifiable information” to third parties without the prior written consent of the student. Exceptions may be made only for university officials and others with legitimate educational interests. The university may disclose “directory information” unless the student notifies the university to the contrary. Directory information is defined as a student’s name, address, telephone number, email address, date and place of birth, major field of study, student activities, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most previous educational agency or institution attended by the student. If you have questions about the law or want more information, please contact the Office of the Registrar at 662-915-7226.