Student Complaints and Grievance Procedures
Sam Houston State University is a student-centered, community engaged institution whose mission is to offer accessible, quality higher education. In support of providing educational and other opportunities in a climate conducive to personal and professional development, the university has developed procedures for students to pursue grievances within the university community. Different types of complaints or grievances are handled by various offices across SHSU; this site is intended to help students navigate which is the most appropriate channel to initiate and pursue eligible grievances.
Academic Complaint
For an academic complaint – please start with the faculty member involved in the complaint, and if the complaint cannot be resolved at that level, then contact the next higher office on the organizational chart (such as the department chair/director or dean’s office). Specific instructions are included with the form linked below.
Academic complaint examples include appeals on: course grades; unauthorized class absences/tardiness; instructor's alleged unprofessional conduct; withdrawal/suspension of privileges (profesional degree programs).
File an Academic Complaint Here
Non-Academic Complaint
For a non-academic complaint – please start with the faculty or staff person at the department level office involved in the complaint, and if the complaint cannot be resolved at that level, then contact the next higher office on the organizational chart (such as the department chair/director or the Dean of Students' Office).
Non-academic complaint examples may include appeals on: student employment; disciplinary decision or parking citation; or a Department of Residence Life Administrative Review decision/action.
File a Non-Academic Complaint Here
Other Resources
Office of Title IX &
Discrimination Resolution
If you or someone you know has been subjected to sexual misconduct or any form of discrimination, you may report such behaviors to the Office of Title IX & Discrimination Resolution. Reports may be submitted online.
Student Legal & Mediation Services
This office provides legal advice and conflict resolution services, and if the issue involves the university, referrals to private attorneys.
Department of Leadership Initiatives
Filing a grievance against a student organization? There are multiple routes to file based on the type of issue. Please check with the Department of Leadership Initiatives to determine which route is correct.