Policies of Academic Freedom and Tenure

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington

Approved by the Board of Governors of The University of North Carolina - May 14, 1976, effective June 11, 1976; revisions approved July 20, 1979, effective July 20, 1979; revisions approved May 10, 1982, effective July 1, 1982; revisions approved November 11, 1994, effective December 9, 1995; revisions approved January 2001, effective July 1, 2001; revisions approved August 2007, effective August 2007; revisions approved October 2009.

This document sets forth the official policy of The University of North Carolina at Wilmington regarding academic freedom, rights, and responsibilities, promotion, and tenure of its faculty. Fundamental in this policy are the concepts of academic freedom, rights, and responsibilities as stated in Chapter VI of the Code of The University of North Carolina. Equally fundamental is an explicit policy of promotion and tenure.

1. Freedom and responsibility in the university community
2. Academic freedom and responsibility of faculty
3. Academic tenure
4. Policies on appointment, promotion, and tenure
5. Mediation of faculty grievances
6. Nonreappointment hearings procedure
7. Faculty committee to hear grievances
8. Policies regarding cessation of university employment
9. Termination of faculty employment
10. Retirement
11. Policy on leave
12. Implementation

Section XI. Policy on Leave

The University of North Carolina does not have a sabbatical leave program. From time to time leaves of absence for faculty members are granted for valid professional or personal reasons. Leaves of absence without pay are negotiated, depending upon the individual's need and the best interest of the institution.