FERPA at MTSU

What are the Basic Rules?

  • Student educational records are considered confidential and may not be released without the written consent of the student.
  • As a faculty or staff member you have a responsibility to protect educational records in your possession. Do not allow anyone else to use your username and password to log onto Banner, PipelineMT, or Argos. Also don't leave Banner, PipelineMT or Argos reports or screen prints where others may see the information. It is important not to leave your computer unattended when logged onto Banner, PipelineMT, or Argos and position your computer monitor where those entering your office may not view student information.
  • Some information is considered public (sometimes called "Directory Information"). This information may be released without the student's written permission. However, the student may opt to consider this information confidential as well. Current directory information is: name, city of permanent place of residence,  photograph or video when related to a MTSU activity, year of birth, major field of study, enrolled status (full-time, part-time, withdrawn), student level (freshman, sophomore, etc.), dates of attendance, degree status (expected graduation date and/or dates conferred),University-recognized honors and awards and dates received, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, height and weight of athletes, and the most recent educational agency or institution attended by the student. Directory information may only released by designated MTSU offices.  Directory information also includes the following information that may only be provided to requesters for a legitimate educational purpose or in relation to a MTSU activity: email addresses (campus and personal), mailing addresses (campus, primary, and permanent), and University ID Number (M#).
  • All third party requests for directory information must be submitted to publicrecords@mtu.edu.
  • You have access to information only for legitimate use in completion of your responsibilities as a university employee. Need to know is the basic principle-not curiosity.

If you are ever in doubt, do not release any information until you contact the Office of University Counsel, the Office of Compliance and Enterprise Risk Management, Information Technology Division, or the Registrar's Office at 615-898-5814 or records@mtsu.edu.

Otherwise

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