Graduate Assistant Appeals: Evaluations, Dismissal, Compensation Issues

Step 1: Working Toward a Resolution Within the Parties

Students who believe their academic program evaluation has been prejudiced or capricious or who believe that their stipend is not commensurate with that of other graduate students having the same status in their academic program must first attempt to resolve the matter with the faculty/staff member or appropriate administrative leader of the school, college or unit responsible for the assistantship.

Step 2: Written Appeal Within the Unit

If unsuccessful, the student may then file a written appeal to the director of graduate studies for consideration by the appropriate graduate committee. This appeal must be filed within 60 days of the evaluation or dismissal. A written determination of the appeal shall be presented to the student and supervisor. If the assistantship is not in an academic program, the MU vice provost/dean of the Graduate School would consider the appeal.

Step 3: Presenting the Appeal to the Graduate School Office

If no action is taken on the appeal within 30 days of its filing or if the matter is not resolved to the student's satisfaction, the student may present the original appeal and documentation to the MU vice provost/dean of the Graduate School.

If the vice provost/dean determines that the appeal might have merit, the vice provost/dean will request a review by a subcommittee of the Graduate Faculty Senate. Upon subcommittee recommendation, the full Graduate Faculty Senate will meet and serve as the final level of appeal.

During the appeal process, if an evaluation or assistantship renewal or dismissal is overturned, the supervisor has the right to appeal this decision in writing to the Graduate Faculty Senate.