Pregnancy

Pregnancy

Every pregnant student has the opportunity to be admitted to the University, to receive financial aid, to fully participate and complete her courses, and to pursue her educational goals. The Western Michigan University Non-Discrimination Policy prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of sex. Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 (Title IX) affords gender equity in all aspects of an educational program. This includes school-sponsored extracurricular activities and internships, athletics, career counseling, lab and clinical work, etc.

Title IX also provides that;

  • Course absences due to pregnancy-related conditions should be considered excused. If the course requires submission of a doctor's note for other medical conditions, the same may be required from the pregnant student.
  • Accommodations should be provided to make up coursework.
  • Students cannot be penalized for taking pregnancy-related leave, and must be able to return to school in the same status they held before taking leave.
  • Students should be free of harassment, intimidation, or other discrimination because of pregnancy-related conditions.

Anyone with questions or concerns about the application of Western Michigan University policy and the law concerning pregnancy may contact Institutional Equity at (269) 387-6316.

Faculty and staff with questions about leave provisions for their own pregnancy may contact Human Resources at (269) 387-3620, or view information online at wmich.edu/hr.