Hospitalization Guide - For Faculty & Staff
What if a TC Student is Hospitalized?
If a student is admitted to a hospital or was recently discharged, the student may feel concerned about meeting academic requirements at TC. To assist, there are resources available at Teachers College for such students, focusing on helping them navigate their return to TC.
We encourage students to reach out to their instructors and/or academic advisors to discuss their individual circumstances. If your student would like assistance in navigating the situation, please encourage them to contact our team at studentsupportadvocacy@tc.columbia.edu. We are available to work with students to discuss support resources, and help facilitate communication. If a student requires disability-related accommodations due to either a brief or chronic medical issue or illness, the student should reach out to the Office of Access and Services for Individuals with Disabilities (OASID) at oasid@tc.columbia.edu.
Is the student required to inform TC of their hospitalization?
This is private information and students may decide whether to share it with the College. However, it is always a good idea, whenever possible, for a student to contact their academic department or program directly to discuss their individual situation. If the student would like assistance in navigating an individual situation, you may encourage them to contact Student Support & Advocacy at studentsupportandadvocacy@tc.columbia.edu. We would be glad to assist you. However, it is always a good idea for a student to communicate with their advisors or instructors directly to discuss how to make up work and/or classes that may have been missed.
Is the student required to inform instructors of their hospitalization?
No. However, it is always a good idea for a student to communicate with their advisors or instructors directly to discuss how to make up work and/or classes that may have been missed.
Will the student be able to return to school after the hospitalization?
A hospitalization does not prevent students from remaining enrolled. As students plan for their return to TC, they may consider how time away from classes will impact their study. An extended amount of missed classes may cause a significant change to their academic progress. Students’ academic advisors, therefore, may assist them in determining future options.
What if a student cannot manage classes and get healthy at the same time?
Encourage the student to speak with their advisor/instructors, connect with OASID (oasid@tc.columbia.edu), consider a medical leave, and/or verify their enrollment status at TC.