Criminal Conduct/Background Check Policies

Admission to any School of Nursing academic program or other clinical or research postdoctoral fellowships is conditional upon review and acceptance of prospective students' or fellows' criminal background investigation. The University reserves the right to rescind or revoke an offer of admission or appointment to any educational or training program to any individual, or dismiss a student whose criminal background investigation reveals a history of criminal conduct that:

  • the University reasonably determines increases the risk of harm to patients or individuals on university or third-party premises where a student may be engaged in clinical experiences required by the educational or training program;
  • was not accurately disclosed in response to a direct question regarding criminal history on any application for admission or appointment in connection with the program; and/or
  • is inconsistent with the high standard of ethical conduct required of all members of the academic community or is otherwise unbefitting a member of the academic community.

Criminal Background Checks

Most JHSON affiliates require students to obtain criminal background checks prior to attending an off-site facility rotation; therefore, all students must complete a background check when starting a degree or certificate program at JHSON. Students are responsible for all fees associated with the process. Students must use the vendor designated by JHSON for their background check. Some sites may require an additional check with increased criteria.  

If a background check reveals a criminal record the Clinical Placements Office will notify the associate dean for academic affairs and the student’s program director who will be provided a copy of the report to review the results with the student and given an opportunity to provide information and speak to the issue.  When determining the impact of criminal record, JHSON will consider its policies, the policies and requirements of the off-site facility, along with the date of the crime, the nature of the crime and the relationship of the crime to the program.  

If a student is rejected for placement by a facility based on the results of the background check, the student will be reassigned to a second facility requiring a background check. If a student is rejected for placement a second time due to the background check results, the dean of JHSON, or designee, will determine if the student can continue with the program.  

JHSON has no obligation to refund tuition and fees or otherwise make accommodations if the student’s criminal record renders them ineligible to complete the required courses or obtain a license to practice nursing.