Overview and Purpose: Due to increasing national standards regarding the qualifications of healthcare professionals, most employers—including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies—now require criminal history disclosure. Furthermore, many state laws mandate disclosure for health-related certifications and licenses. Because a criminal record can lead to the denial, suspension, or revocation of credentials, Midwestern University requires all students to undergo criminal background checks.
Requirements and Scope: All accepted students must complete a background check prior to matriculation. Additional checks may be required during enrollment to maintain eligibility for clinical rotations. Depending on program requirements, residency status, and history, these checks may include:
- Standard Checks: Conducted through an approved agency.
- Fingerprinting: Submitted to State Police and FBI databases (mandatory for the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine and other specified programs).
- International Police Clearance: Required for international students and U.S. citizens/residents who have lived abroad within the past seven years.
Authorization and Review Process: Students must authorize the University to obtain their criminal history. The Dean of Students reviews all reports indicating misdemeanor or felony convictions. In the event of a conviction, the Dean of Students consults with the respective College Dean to determine how the record impacts: 1) Admission status, 2) Continued enrollment, and 3) The ability to complete required clinical training.
Submission Procedures: Background checks are coordinated by the Office of Student Services.
- Consent: All matriculating students must submit a Criminal Background Release and Consent Form via the student portal.
- Application Services: Certain programs (e.g., Pharmacy, Dental, Osteopathic Medicine) may complete checks through centralized services like AACOMAS or PharmCAS.
- Deadlines: Requirements must be satisfied before matriculation or within the first month of enrollment if an extension is granted. Failure to comply may jeopardize enrollment.
Evaluation of Positive Findings: A criminal record does not automatically disqualify a student. If findings are positive, the Dean of Students may investigate further by requesting additional information, meeting with the student, or obtaining FBI reports. Decisions are based on:
- The nature and timing of the offense.
- Relevance to the specific healthcare program.
- The University’s ability to secure clinical training for the student.
Note: Students permitted to enroll with a criminal record must sign a waiver acknowledging potential limitations regarding their education, residency placement, and future licensure.
Ongoing Disclosure and Compliance:
- Mandatory Reporting: During enrollment, students must immediately disclose any new arrests, charges, or convictions.
- Integrity: Providing false information or failing to disclose criminal history is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct and may result in dismissal or denial of admission.
Clinical Placements and Licensure: The University does not guarantee clinical placements, residency positions, or professional licensure for students with criminal histories.
- External Standards: Clinical sites and licensing boards apply their own independent criteria.
- Information Sharing: Relevant background data may be shared with rotation sites on a "need-to-know" basis, which may delay or limit placement.
- Student Responsibility: Students are responsible for researching the licensure requirements of the states where they intend to practice.
Confidentiality and Security: Records of positive criminal background checks are maintained confidentially by the Office of Student Services. When a clinical site requires a report, it is transmitted securely via encrypted, password-protected files.