Develop and Submit a Policy
University Policy
University-wide policies communicate expectations relating to conduct, rights, and obligations consistent with the University’s mission and core values. University-wide policies enhance operational effectiveness, efficiency, and governance, and as a result serve as a tool to reduce institutional risk. University-wide policies must be consistent with relevant laws and regulations, as well as bylaws, ordinances, and policies established by the Board of Trustees.
- Mandates actions or constraints, specifies behavior and articulates desired outcomes
- Enhances the university’s mission, mitigate institutional risk, and/or promotes operational effectiveness and efficiency
- Are broad and general and change infrequently
- Applies to all MSU employees, students, vendors, and visitors
University Policy Development Checklist
University Policy Submission Form
University Policy Communication Plan
University Interim Policy Template
Unit Level Policy
These are policies that apply only to a specific unit within the university (e.g., college, department, office). Unit level policies are developed, updated, and administered by the issuing unit. Unit-level policies must be consistent with relevant laws and regulations, as well as bylaws, ordinances, and policies established by the Board of Trustees and university-wide policies.
- Addresses the specific need for operations, administration, or programs of Colleges, Units, or departments of the university
- Applies only to a specific college, unit, or department
- Can have additional specifications, requirements, or restrictions as compared to but cannot contradict or be less restrictive than a university-wide policy
- Is approved by department or unit leadership