Probationary Period for Tenure
| No. 8-23 | Rev. 5-1-18 | Date: 5-13-81 (formerly 8-21) |
POLICY
Faculty members are eligible for tenure following the completion of the normal probationary period of six years. Beginning with appointment to the rank of assistant professor or higher rank, the probationary period shall include only full-time service in accredited institutions of higher education.
In exceptional cases, the tenure process may be temporarily suspended (leave and re-enter at the same point), and the probationary period extended by a period not to exceed two years. For example, when a faculty member becomes a parent through birth or adoption of a child below the age of six, great consideration shall be given to the faculty member's request to extend the probationary period for tenure for up to two years, in one year increments, provided the request is made in writing during the year following the birth or adoption. Other examples include but are not limited to death, divorce and illness.
A. Process for extension of the tenure review period
The faculty member requests an extension in writing to their department chair with a copy to their dean for an extension of their probationary period. This request can only be made prior to the completion of the professional file by the candidate. The request should include the rationale for the extension. The decision to extend the probationary period is made by the college Ranking Tenure Evaluation Committee, upon recommendation by the department chair and the dean, in consultation with the provost. The dean ensures that this process is followed and completed in a timely manner.
If and when such a request is granted, the conditions of the extension shall be explained in writing by the provost, copies distributed to the candidate, the department chair and the candidate's professional file, and major reviews delayed accordingly.
During the probationary period, a faculty member has the academic freedom enjoyed by all other faculty members.
Time spent by faculty members on leave in pursuit of professionally related education or experience (beyond the minimum degree requirements as specified in PPM 8-14) may be counted as part of the probationary period only on the positive recommendation of the department chair, dean and approval of the provost. Up to one year for professionally related activities can be counted toward fulfilling this requirement. Non-professionally related leaves do not count toward the probationary period for tenure.