Licensure and Accreditation
Institutional Accreditation
PHSU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The next accreditation visit is scheduled for 2026-2027.
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
1007 North Orange Street
4th Floor, MB #166
Wilmington, DE 19801
PHSU is licensed by the Board of Post-secondary Institutions in Puerto Rico.
Junta de Instituciones Postsecundarias
Departamento de Estado de Puerto Rico
Calle San José Esq. San Francisco
Viejo San Juan
San Juan PR 00902-3271
The PHSU-Saint Louis Branch Campus is authorized by the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHE).
Missouri Department of Higher Education And Workforce Development
301 W. High Street
Jefferson City, MO 65102-1469
Programmatic Accreditation:
The Medicine Doctoral (MD) Program is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). The next site visit is scheduled for April 2024.
Liaison Committee on Medical Education
330 North Wabash Avenue Suite 39300 Chicago, IL 60611—5885
Phone: (312) 464-4933
Association of American Medical Colleges
655 K Street, NW Suite 100 Washington, DC 20001-2399
Phone: 202- 828-0596
Web: www.lcme.org.
The Public Health Program(MPH and DrPH) are accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). The next accreditation site visit is scheduled by 2026.
Council on Education for Public Health
1010 Wayne Avenue, Suite 220 Silver Springs,
MD 20910-5660
Phone: (202) 789- 1050 Fax (202) 789-1895
Web: www.ceph.org.
The Ph.D. Clinical Psychology Program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). The next accreditation visit is scheduled for 2028.
The PSY.D. in Clinical Psychology Programis fully accredited in Main Campus by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association.
The recent APA accreditation site visit for the Psy.D. program was in March 2022 and includes de San Juan University Center.
American Psychological Association
750 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20002-4242
Phone: (800) 374-2721; (202) 336-5500
Web: www.apa.org
The Dental Medicine Doctor Program received initial accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education.
The Commission on Dental Accreditation
(312) 440-4653
211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
The Commission’s web address is https://coda.ada.org/
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Ponce Health Sciences University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org). The next accreditation site visit is scheduled by spring 2026.
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
655 K Street NW Suite 750
Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 887-6791
Web: https://www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE
Specialized Accreditations
The Psychiatric Residency and the Dermatology Residency Programs, located at PHSU Wellness Center, is accredited by the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME).
Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education
515 North State Street, Suite 2000
Chicago, IL 60654
Telephone: 312.755.5000 Fax: 312.755.7498
Web: https://www.acgme.org
The Continuing Medical Education Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME). The next evaluation is scheduled for 2027. The last accreditation period covers July 31, 2023 to July 31, 2027.
Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education
515 N. State Street Suite 1801
Chicago, IL 60654
Phone: (312) 527-9200
Web: www.accme.org
Ponce Health Sciences University is approved by the Puerto Rico State Approving Agency to provide academic training to the students under the various GI Bill® programs. GI Bill® is a required trademark of the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Tuition and Fees
PHSU offers world-class education.
Details on the cost of tuition and fees by academic program are included below.
2024-2025 Tuition and Fees
2023-2024 Tuition and Fees
Tuition & Fees Subject to change*
COST BREAKDOWN BY MAJOR
- PhD Biomedical Sciences
- Doctor in Medicine
- Dental Medicine Doctor
- PsyD in Clinical Psychology
- PhD in Clinical Psychology
- Doctor of Public Health Epidemiology (Dr PH)
- Master of Science in Public Health
- Master of Science in Public Health – International Health
- Master of Science in Medical Sciences
- Master of Science in School Psychology
- Postgraduate Certificate in Neuroscience of Learning
- Professional Certificate in Family and Couples Therapy
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Library Services
PHSU Library on Main Campus, Fundación Angel Ramos, is designed to provide convenient access for the academic community members. Its mission is to support the students, faculty, and researchers’ learning, research, and academic success. The Library offers 10,128 sq. feet of spacious, comfortable facilities and a suitable environment that includes excellent lighting, equipment, and arrangement of books, journals, and audiovisual materials in open stacks (shelving space saver). The Library supports access to Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, Psychology, Biomedical, and Health Sciences resources for students, faculty, and esearchers and responds to the university community’s information needs. The academic curriculum is supported by access to online databases, eBooks, journals, etc., subscribed to by the Library. The library acquires, preserves, manages these resources and provides services on campus and through its website (https://www.psm.edu/library).
The Library has Circulation, Reserve, Acquisition, and Administrative offices on the first floor. A Study Hall, a Computer Room (LRC), Journals, and Interlibrary loans services are on the second floor. Electronic books and journals with full text are also available for students and faculty through the Public Access Catalog (PAC). Students and faculty can access many books and periodicals by borrowing from other libraries through interlibrary loans. The Library workstations provide full access to wireless Internet. The second floor is open 24 hours. The Silent Study Room area is also open 24 hours. There are 314 seating available throughout the library, tables with ergonomic chairs, and cubicles. It also has cubicles and other specialized equipment for students/faculty with disabilities. An elevator, two photocopy/printer machines, 12 desktops, and Wi-Fi are also available.
The PHSU Library at East Campus is mostly for the Nursing and Psychology Program, and it has 1,520 square feet with accessible parking, excellent lighting, air conditioning, and an emergency exit. Photocopier/printing machine, two desktops, Wi-Fi, and a water cooler are also available. It has three small study rooms, twelve cubicles, and one for a student/faculty with disabilities. Also, there are 32 seats available throughout the Library.
Learning Resources Center
The Learning Resource Center facilities are equipped with 40 computers located on the 2nd floor Building D, and offer access to electronic databases, the internet, link services and office Catalog 2020-2023, 365 productivity applications such as Word, Excel, Power Point, and specialized software as SPSS. These facilities are available for PHSU authorized users.
Classroom Building and Laboratories
PHSU Main campus has a total of 16 classrooms distributed in the following buildings: Academic D (7), Building L (4) and Building Q (5). PHSU EAST Campus has 12 classrooms in Building 2. The Gross Anatomy Lab is located in Building E-Main Campus. It can accommodate up to 17 tables. The Multipurpose Lab is located in Building D and can accommodate seventy-five (75) students. The Clinical Skills and Simulation Laboratory for the School of Nursing is located in Building 1- EAST campus. It occupies 1,761 sq. feet and has the materials and supplies required in a standard nursing lab.
Research Building
The Research Building is a two stories facility where all research protocols are processed. Also, most of the Basic Sciences Departments offices are located in this building.
Student Lounge
PHSU has a student lounge of 1,500 sq. ft. of interior space and a 1,600 sq. ft. terrace. It is fully equipped.
Standardized Patients and Simulation Laboratory Unit
The Standardized Patient and Simulation Laboratory Unit, is located at Building O-Main campus and occupies 11,500 sq. ft.
Use of University Equipment
University equipment and supplies are provided for the use of employees in the performance of their official duties for the University as designated from time to time. Use for purposes other than those authorized requires prior authorization.
Educational Technology and Online Learning
PHSU has an Educational Technology and Online Learning unit under the Dean of Curriculum and Academic Affairs. This unit has a director, three educational technologists, and one academic media specialist. This team supports faculty, staff, and students in using the educational technology resources available in the institution to meet students’ learning experiences. These resources include the Learning Management Systems (Canvas, Moodle), offline examination platform (ExamSoft), videoconferencing tools (Zoom), and Audience Response Systems (iClickers). The unit specialists also develop courses, resources, and workshops for the training of faculty and staff into the use of new technologies and their implementation in the learning environment.
The unit has the necessary equipment for the use and implementation of current and new technologies in education. Also, it has a Recording Studio to assist faculty in the recording of didactic material to be used in teaching modalities such as the flipped (dynamic) classroom. The studio has acquired production monitors, cameras, teleprompter, TV, and computers for video editing for these purposes. The Recording Studio is located in Building E-Main campus.
Audiovisual Support
PHSU has a complete audiovisual service that ensures that the proper audiovisual facilities are PHSU Audiovisual unit ensures that the proper audiovisual material, equipment, and services be available to support faculty teaching, student learning, and administrative activities. Audiovisual office is located in Building E-Main Campus.
Links to Academic Programs By School
Admissions Entrance Exams Waiver COVID-19 Temporary Policies
- School of Medicine- MSMS
- Public Health Program
- School of Nursing
- School of Behavioral & Brain Sciences
FERPA
The University adheres to all applicable federal, Commonwealth and local regulations concerning the privacy or confidentiality of student records, including, but not limited to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Faculty members are required to strictly comply with the University’s FERPA policy in their administration and use of student record.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)
For the purposes of this policy, Ponce Health Sciences University has used the following definition of terms.
Student
Any duly registered person who attends or has attended any of the Ponce Health Sciences University academic programs.
Educational Records
Any record (in handwriting, print, tapes, film or other medium) maintained by Ponce Health Sciences University is an agent of the school, which is directly related to a student, except:
- A personal record kept by a staff member if kept in the sole possession of the maker of the record; the record must not be accessible or revealed to another person, expect a temporary substitute for the maker of the record.
- Records created and maintained by the Ponce Health Sciences University to comply with the federal rules and regulation a privacy preservation concerns.
- An employment record of an individual, whose employment is not contingent on their student’s status, provided the record is used only in relation to the individual’s employment.
- Records made or maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or other recognized professional or paraprofessional if the records are used only for treatment of a student and made available only to those persons providing the treatment.
- Alumni records containing student(s) information after they are no longer in attendance at the Ponce Health Sciences University, and which do not relate to the person as a student.
(Note: A college or university is required. by Section 99.7 of the FERPA regulations to provide students annual notification of their FERPA* rights. Its policy must include the method it will use to inform students.)
- Students will be notified of their FERPA rights annually by publication in the student handbook.
- Students will be notified of FERPA rights annually by publication in the student bulletin; or
- Students will be proved a statement of their FERPA rights in their registration packets.
Procedure to Inspect Education Records
- Students may inspect and review their own academic records upon approval of the Registrar.
- Students should submit to the Registrar or Record Officer a written request, which identifies precisely as possible the record or records he or she wishes to inspect.
- The Record Custodian or an appropriate University staff person will make the needed arrangements for access as promptly as possible and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. Access must be given in 15 days or less from receipt of the request.
- When a record contains information about more than one student, the student may inspect and review only the record related to the student.
* The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974
Right of University to Refuse Access
Ponce Health Sciences University reserves the rights to refuse to permit a student to inspect the following records:
- Letters and statements of recommendation for which the student has waived the right of access, or which were placed in the file before, January 1, 1975.
- Records connected with an application to attend Ponce Health Sciences University it that application was denied.
- Those records which are excluded from the FERPA definition of education records.
Refusal to Provide Copies
(Note: With an understanding that if cannot deny students access to their records, Ponce Health Sciences University is required to describe the circumstances in which it may deny students a copy of their education records.)
Ponce Health Sciences University reserves the right to deny transcripts or copies of records not required to be made available by FERPA in any of the following situations:
- The student has an unpaid financial obligation to the University.
- There is an unresolved disciplinary action against the student.
Fees for Copies or Records
The fee for copies will be charged as stipulated in the Tuition & Fees. (Note: A college or university may not charge for search and retrieval of the records; however, it may charge for copying time and postage).
Types, Locations and Custodians of Educations of Records
(Listing required. Types, Locations and Custodians are examples)
The following is a list of the types of records that Ponce Health Sciences University maintains their locations and their custodians.
Types | Location | Custodian |
Applicants Records | Admission’s Office | Vice President of Student Affairs |
Admissions Records of Matriculated Students | Registrar’s Office | Registrar |
Cumulative Academic Records (Current Students, after graduation, withdrawals and transferred students | Registrar’s Office | Registrar |
Disciplinary Records | Student Affairs Office | Vice President of Student Affairs |
Documents for Financial Aid | Financial Aid Office | Director of Financial Aid |
Disclosure of Education Records
Ponce Health Sciences University will disclose information from a student’s education records only with the written consent of the student, except:
- The school officials who have a legitimate educational interest in the records. A college or university is required to specify the criteria for school officials and for legitimate educational interest. The following are Ponce Health Sciences University criteria: A school official is:
- A person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position.
- A person elected to the Board of Trustees.
- A person employed by or under contract to Ponce Health Sciences University to perform a special task, such as the attorney or auditor.
- A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official is:
- Performing a task that is specified in his or her position description or by a contract agreement.
- Performing a task related to a student’s education.
- Performing a task related to the discipline of the student.
- Providing a service of benefit relating to the student or student’s family, such as health care, counseling, job placement, or financial aid.
- To officials of another school, upon request, in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. FERPA requires a college or university to make a reasonable attempt to notify the student of the transfer unless it states in its policy that is intends to forward records on request.
- To certain official of the U.S. Department of Education, the Comptroller General and state and local educational authorities, in connection with certain state or federally supported education programs.
- In connection with a student’s request for or receipt of financial aid as necessary to determine the eligibility, amount, or conditions of the financial aid, or to enforce the terms and conditions of the aid.
- If required by a state law requiring disclosure that was adopted before November 19, 1974.
- To organizations conducting certain studies for or behalf of the Ponce Health Sciences University.
- To accrediting organizations to carry out their functions.
- To parents of an eligible student who claim the student as a dependent for the income tax purposes.
- To comply with a judicial order or a lawfully issued subpoena.
- To appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency.
- Directory information so designated by Ponce Health Sciences University.
- The result of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by the Ponce Health Sciences University against an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence to the alleged of that crime.
- PHSU complies with the FERPA USA Patriot Act: Public Law 107-56: DCL April 12, 2002, Section 507. PHSU follows the provisions outlined in the regulations as follows: PHSU only discloses personally identifiable information from an education record to appropriate parties in connection with an emergency if knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health and safety of the student or other individuals.
Record of Request for Disclosure
Ponce Health Sciences University will maintain a record of all requests or disclosure of information from student’s education records. The record will indicate the name of a party making the request, any additional party to whom it may be re-disclosure and the legitimate interest the party had in requesting or obtaining the information. The record may be requested and reviewed by the parent or eligible student.
Directory Information
(Note: Disclosure of Directory Information is optional. If the opinion is exercised, a college or university is required to list the items it has designated as Directory information).
Ponce Health Sciences University designated the following items as Directory Information: student name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and previous school attendance and photograph, email, height and weight, honors, education. Ponce Health Sciences University may disclose any of those items without prior written consent, unless notified in writing to the contrary by the student.
The following are not considered as part of the directory information: social security number, religion, ID Number, gender, race, grades, nationality, and GPA.
Correction of Education Records
(Note: Ponce Health Sciences University includes in its policy a procedure for the correction of records).
Students have the right to ask to have records corrected that they believe are inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of their privacy rights. Following are the procedure to correct a record:
- A student must ask the official Ponce Health Sciences University to amend a record. They should write Ponce Health Sciences University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.
- Ponce Health Sciences University, registrar, or Record Officer may comply with the request, or it may decide not to comply. If it decides not to comply, Ponce Health Sciences University, registrar, or Record Officer, will notify the student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing to challenge the information believed to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the student’s rights.
- Upon request, Registrar of Ponce Health Sciences University, will arrange for a hearing and notify the student, reasonable in advance, of the date, place, and time of the hearing.
- The hearing will be conducted by a Hearing Committee of three members who are disinterest parties; however, the hearing committee members may be officials of the Institution. The student shall be afforded a full and fair opportunity to present evidence relevant to the issued raised in the original request to amend the student’s education record. The student may be assisted by one or more individuals, including an attorney.
- Ponce Health Sciences University Hearing Committee will prepare a written decision based on the evidence presented at the hearing and it will be submitted to the President to take the corresponding action. The decision will include a summary of the evidence presented and the reason for the decision.
- If the President decides that the challenged information is not inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the student’s right of privacy, it will be notifying the student that they have a right to place in the record a statement commenting on challenged information or a statement setting forth reasons for disagreeing with the decision.
- The statement will be maintained a part of the student’s education records as long as the contested portion is maintained. If Ponce Health Sciences University discloses the contested portion of the record, it must also disclosure the statement.
- If the President decides that the information is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the student’s right of privacy, the President will order the registrar to amend the record and notify the student, in writing, that the record has been amended.
The Solomon Amendment and FERPA
The Solomon Amendment requires institutions to provide directory-type information on students who are 17 years of age or older upon request of representatives of the Department of Defense for military recruiting purposes. This information- “student recruiting information” – includes student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, level of education, academic major, degrees received and the most recent previous education institution at which the student was enrolled.
A request for student recruiting information under Solomon must be honored unless there is an exception in the law which precludes the institution from providing the requested information. The most important exceptions are that the university:
- Have a long-standing policy of pacifism based on historical religious tradition.
- Certify that such information is not collected by the institution.
- Certify that each student concerned has formally requested to withhold “directory information “under FERPA from third parties.
The definitions of the terms “directory information” (FERPA) and “student recruiting information” (Solomon) are not synonymous.
All students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
Use and Management of Social Security Number Policy
PONCE HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY (PHSU) is committed to maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of Social Security numbers (SSNs). PHSU is cognizant of the risk the improper disclosure of SSNs can have on individuals who have entrusted the information to PHSU, including the risk of identity theft. The collection, management and display of SSNs be controlled and that the use of an SSN as an identification number is limited. An SSN may not be used as a primary identifier in a university system and never be used on any public list.
- SSNs may only be requested in certain cases, such as when required by law or for business purposes with certain third-party providers, with appropriate disclosure of its use.
- On-line and off-line systems that maintain SSN data must have adequate security controls implemented to protect its confidentiality and integrity.
- PHSU Primary ID (“UPI”) number will serve as the primary identification number for university students, faculty and staff. A UPI is assigned to all persons affiliated with the University and is displayed on the University’s ID Card.
Violations of this policy are to be reported to the University’s Compliance Officer.
Scope
This policy sets forth the framework for PHSU’S collection, management and use of Social Security numbers (SSN) and is applicable to all PHSU units.
- This policy will not apply to clinical and patient systems maintained by PHSU that are required to use the SSN for billing and healthcare coordination purposes.
- SSNs are considered an identifier under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
Requirements for Appropriate Use and Management of Social Security Numbers (“SSNs”)
- Collection of SSNs for University records
- SSNs may be collected and recorded when needed by federal or state governmental agencies or by outside third parties mandated to collect SSN information (example: health care providers, students’ loans, etc.).
1.2 PHSU employees authorized to collect SSNs may request an SSN during the execution of their duties if a primary means of identification, such as the UPI number, is not known or available.
1.3 PHSU employees may not collect SSNs, except for those purposes noted below. Enrollment: Those wishing to enroll in academic offerings at the
1.3.1 PHSU- both credit and non-credit – may be required to provide a SSN for secondary identification purposes. IRS regulations require PHSU request a SSN as a Taxpayer ID number for use in tax reporting. In addition, any student applying for Financial Aid must provide a SSN to the University. If a person enrolling in PHSU academic offering – credit or non- credit – cannot provide a SSN, certain services, such as transcripts, enrollment verification, tax reporting and financial aid may not be available to the individual and the University cannot guarantee a complete academic record for the individual.
1.3.2 Immigration Law: An SSN may be collected as necessitated by immigration law or regulations.
1.3.3 Certification Exams/Cooperative Experiences/Internships: A SSN is required to be collected and reported for students who are taking certification exams if mandated by the certifying agency. Students participating in internships OR Coop experiences may also require the student to provide a SSN for the other entity.
1.3.4 Employment: Any person employed by PHSU must provide a SSN as the taxpayer ID number as directed by the IRS. This includes all employees, including part-time and student employees. Providing the SSN is a condition of employment. Applicants for employment must also provide a SSN, if requested, for mandatory background checks.
1.3.5 Employee Benefits: If required by a benefits provider, the SSNs of dependents may be collected to receive service. PHSU may also release an employee’s SSN to benefit providers.
1.3.6 Payment for Personal or Professional Services: Any person providing services to PHSU as an independent contractor, invited speaker (honorarium) or research subject for which payment will be made, must provide a SSN as the taxpayer ID number per IRS regulations. These taxpayer ID numbers will be stored in the Finance Department as part of the vendor record.
1.3.7 Other Entities: The SSN may be released to entities outside PHSU where required by federal or state law, regulation, or procedure, or if the individual grants permission.
- Maintaining the Security and Privacy of SSNs
2.1 All records containing SSNs, whether on or off-line, will be considered confidential information and should be maintained appropriately to protect the confidentiality and integrity of this information.
2.2 PHSU will take reasonable precautions to protect SSNs for all individuals who provide it.
2.3 An SSN may not be used as a primary identifier in PHSU system.
2.4 When records including SSNs are no longer needed, disposal of the records must follow University information retention and destruction policies and procedures.
2.5 SSNs are confidential data and may not be used for purposes of data mining.
2.6 SSN’s may not be used, in part or in whole, as a user ID or password for accessing a computer system or for generating any type of identifier.
2.7 SSNs in their entirety or in any portion may not be used nor posted where they can be exposed to the public, including timecards, class rosters, grade rolls and bulletin board announcements.
2.8 SSNs may not be used as an identifier for the collection of data for research or academic purposes.
3 Security Controls for Computer Systems Maintaining SSNs
3.1 Systems storing SSNs must contain security controls that protect the integrity and confidentiality of this information. Controls must include:
3.1.1 Authorization controls that require a user ID and password and that restrict access to information on the system based on an individual’s job responsibilities.
3.1.2 Network security controls, in which any system with SSNs must be protected by a network firewall and any other security control ordered by IT Department.
4 SSNs Shared with Third Parties
4.1 SSNs may not be shared with third parties, with the exceptions of:
4.1.1 As required or permitted by law.
4.1.2 With the consent of the individual.
4.1.3 Where the third party is an agent or contractor for the University and has demonstrated that controls are in place to prevent unauthorized distribution.
Sanctions
It shall be the responsibility of each unit/Department of PHSU to meet the requirements set forth in this policy. Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment. Violation may also result in civil and criminal penalties based on state and federal privacy statutes. PHSU acknowledges that a violation of this Policy is subject to administrative penalties from the Consejo de Educación Superior not less than $500 up to $5,000. (Law 186 for 2006, Article 2.)
Additional Information
For additional information about this policy, or to file a report, contact the University’s Compliance Officer.
Alcohol, Tobacco, Illicit Drug and Violence Policy
Ponce Health Sciences University prohibits the abuse of alcohol within the academic community. The possession, distribution or use of illegal drugs is ground for immediate sanction, including dismissal. Smoking is prohibited on school grounds. Violence will not be tolerated within academic community or on the school or affiliated facilities.
The danger of alcohol, drugs and controlled substances in the study place is of great concern to us. Everyone at PHSU receives a manual that explains in detail the institutional policies and the resources available to deal with these problems. The following policy is established by PHSU:
It is unlawful for any student in PHSU to engage in any activity that involves illicit use, possession, manufacture or distribution of alcohol, drug, tobacco or controlled substances on the school campus, any location used for academic activities or at any of its organizations or affiliates. Proscribed activities include but are not limited to use, manufacture, sale, transportation, dispensation, distribution, disbursement, or possession of such substances. This does not apply to medically prescribed drugs, or to the manufacture, handling and distribution of drugs used for IRB approved research.
Any student of PHSU found to be engaged in any of the above, activities or in the case of vandalism is subject to dismissal. The student shall have the right to appeal as outlined in the “student promotion, academic probation and dismissal” section of this manual. Whenever a student of PHSU is found to be illicitly using, possessing, manufacturing, or distributing alcohol, drugs or controlled substances on the school or campus or on the grounds of affiliated institutions, or if the student has participated in Institutional activities while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any controlled substance, the following will occur:
Should the offender voluntarily recognize that suffer from drug or alcohol addiction and request help, counseling and rehabilitative services might be offered, including referral to public or private psychiatric services as an outpatient or inpatient, at the student’s own expense. If within 6 months, a certificate of complete rehabilitation is not presented, the student will be recommended for dismissal. The first offense for any drug related activity other than abuse of a substance: the student might be referred for counseling by the corresponding authority and to any other pertinent professional assistance. Sanction including dismissal after due notice and hearing.
Second offense: the student will be recommended for dismissal from PHSU after due notice and hearing.
The school procedures do not preclude action by law enforcement authorities for violation of any state or federal laws.
In the event of a conviction by a court of law for any violation or related incident, whether the infraction is committed within or outside the school or affiliates grounds, the PHSU student will sanctioned from the school. It is the duty of the student involved to notify the Vice President of Student Affairs of PHSU of any such conviction in writing within 10 days. Failure to do so will lead to immediate sanction, including dismissal.
Specific rules have been established to regulate PHSU sponsored activities where alcohol is served, based on applicable laws and regulations.
For details, please refer to the Institutional Public Policy on Establishing an Academic Community Free from Alcohol, Tobacco, use of Illicit Drugs and Violence.
Ponce Health Sciences University is one of the leading educational institutions in Medicine and Health Sciences in Puerto Rico. This represents a genuine commitment to establish an institutional public policy for the academic community free of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and violence. PHSU recognizes that prevention strategies are the first steps to fight against drugs, alcohol, and violence. PHSU promotes a prevention program aimed to provide services to students and employees.
It is PHSU commitment to ensure for everyone an environment free of drugs, alcohol, tobacco and violence through prevention, education, and rehabilitation.
Alcohol, Drugs Abuse and Violence Prevention Program of PHSU.
The following Prevention Program, is designed to meet various state and federal regulations, including: “Drug Free Workplace Act” (34 CFR 85), the “Drug Free Schools and Campuses Regulations (34 CFR 86) and the Law 40, 1993 the Government of Puerto Rico, known as Law, to Regulate the Practice of Smoking in Certain Public and Private Places in PR.
Possession and/or use of illicit drugs and unauthorized controlled substances are contrary to university policy and in violation of federal and Puerto Rico laws. PHSU prohibits the possession, use, manufacture, distribution and/or sale of illegal drugs and illegal drug paraphernalia. Students at the University using or otherwise involved with drugs in violation of the Student Conduct Code and are subject to university disciplinary action in addition to any action taken by local or federal law enforcement authorities. Questions regarding the Drug Policy should be directed to the Office of the Students Affairs.
This program is based on the following Federal and PR Commonwealth Laws and/or Regulations:
- Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 (Public Law 101-690) adopted in 1988.
- Drug Free Schools and Communities Act, as emended (Public Law 101-226) adopted on December 12, 1989.
- Law of Controlled Substances in Puerto Rico, also known as Law No. 4 of June 23, 1971, as amended.
- Law to Regulate the Practice of Smoking in Certain Public and Private Places, also known as Law N. 40 of August 3, 1993.
- Regulations Adopted by the United States Department of Education to implement such laws, 34 CFR 85; 34 CFR 86; HEOA section 488 and HEA section 485.
Drug Free Schools and Communities ACT, Amendment of 1989
The Law PL 100-297 signed in 1986, by the President of the United States, established the policy of a “Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act”. This policy was amended in 1989 and is still valid in the United States and its territories.
This law establishes that any institution that receives funds from the Department of Education of United States of America, shall comply with the rules of the “Drug Free Act”. The Department of Education of the United States has the capacity to monitor and corroborate the existence of a biennial review of the public policy of”Drug Free Act” and its implementation at the institutional level. Failure to comply with this revision, could result in the loss of funding from the Federal Governmentand /or claim for repayment of funds previously granted to the Institution.
This Law required that Institutions must disseminate their policies annually to students and employees, along with information on health risks, disciplinary sanctions, and campus-based treatment options. Every two years, Institutions are supposed to evaluate their programs to ensure they are effective and consistent.
The government has classified controlled substances from I to V according to their potential for abuse. In qualifying, the “I” substances appear more potential for abuse and little or no medical value. They are decreasing the risk to the “V” where substances less potential for abuse and accepted medical use with some appearing. Drugs are, by definition, any chemical substance that alters in any way the functioning of the body, mind and nervous system, behavior, and feelings of people. The use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs can cause dependence, a physical or psychological need to use it. Adding and alcoholism are developing a physical and psychological dependence in which the person loses self-control with the use of the substance.
The Alcohol is a depressant drug that affects the central nervous system and brain function progressively inhibited. In Puerto Rico use by persons 18 years of age is legal. The main component of alcoholic beverages is ethanol or ethyl alcohol, which has a different focus depending on your process. The use of alcohol and / or drugs affects motor coordination, reasoning, vision, and the ability to follow an object with his eyes; and, therefore, it becomes RISKY AND CRIMINAL the act of driving motor vehicles under its state (either use or under intoxication). Is considered legally intoxicated by alcohol to a person whose alcohol concentration in the blood is 0.08. However, I could be mentally and physically prevented from driving motor vehicles at a lower level.
Intoxication is a function of the amount of substance ingested, the time consumed, the alcohol content of the drink, weight, and sex of the person (the woman is more sensitive), the mood and the amount of food in the stomach of the individual at the time of consumption.
Intervention Protocol to Rehabilitate Students and Employees
PHSU believe that rehabilitation could be possible when a proper case management is available. The Office for Students Affairs and its Counseling Services are responsible for handling cases of students or staff, identified or are suspected of having problems related to drugs and alcohol.
Non-confirmed cases could be managed by institutional help services; professional counseling, discipline committee, bulletin board and, e-mails with information related to alcohol and drugs prevention. Confirmed cases, should be address to professional help from private and public agencies.
Center | Telephone |
ASSMCA – Ponce Detox Center | 787-840-6935 |
Medicina Conductual – Hospital Damas | 787-842-0045 |
Programa de Alcoholismo de Ponce | 787-844-4130 |
Línea a Auxilio y Prevención | 1-800-981-0023 |
Hogares CREA – Ponce | 787-843-9013 |
Admissions Office | Information related to the Policy is given to the student during admission process. Every student admitted to PHSU, sign the Policy of Alcohol and Drugs Abuse. |
Financial Aid Office | During the FAFSA application, if the students respond yes to the question number 23 (related to drug offence); the Federal Government could cancel any grant to the student. The financial Officer should give the proper orientation related to the student eligibility to receive grants in the future. |
Catalog and School Policies | The Student Catalog and School Policies include a copy of the PHSU Policy of Alcohol and Drugs Abuse. This Student Catalog is also available at the PHSU Web Page. |
Professional Counseling Services | Professional counseling services are available to students and staff. Professional Counselor could refer identified cases to external agencies. |
Extracurricular Activities | PHSU promotes extracurricular activities that involve drugs, alcohol and tobacco use prevention message |
Walking Together | “Walking Together” is the institutional program of primary education and information about alcohol, tobacco, drugs, violence and sexual harassment, address to the employee. This Program is managed by the Professional Counseling Office. |
- PHSU total and hereby categorically prohibited the possession, use, manufacture and / or distribution of drugs and alcohol by students, employees, and visitors to this Institution.
- In case of medications use (drugs), it should be prescribed by a doctor for the treatment of a properly documented health condition.
- Law 40 of August 3, 1993, prohibits smoking in public and private academic institutions at all levels of education. So PHSU not allow smoking in their classrooms or laboratories, halls, game rooms, libraries, hallways, restrooms, elevators, offices, research laboratories (these could even have areas with liquids, vapors, or flammable materials), lunchrooms, meeting rooms, parking area or within the premises of the animal house or institution.
- Nor allow smoking in PHSU sponsored activities.
- Advertising of alcohol and tobacco products are prohibited sponsor academic activities.
- All student organizations recognized by our institution are subject to the above provisions in their official activities, both on and off campus.
- The visitors, guests, or tenants of the PHSU facilities are required to comply with the legislation which it establishes public policy.
Student Alert! As set out in section 5310 of the Federal Law on the Use and Abuse of Drugs, 1988, if you are convicted for possession, manufacture or distribution of drugs, your eligibility for financial aid could be (1) suspended temporarily or (2) finished forever. If the student was convicted of drug offense within (not later than) ten (10) days after the conviction, he shall report in writing with your full name and Social Security number to:
Director, Grants and Contract Services
US Department of Education
Washington DC 20202-4571
Student Organizations are required to report within five (5) calendar days of any incident involving the use of alcohol and / or drugs that occurs in any official activity of the organization. Failure to comply with these provisions of public policy may result in sanctions as outlined in the Student Handbook.
Faculty and Administrative Employees under this public policy and in compliance with the law are bound to:
- Comply with all rules of conduct outlined above.
- Notify the employer in writing of any criminal conviction under the statutes of controlled substances or alcohol events in the workplace no later than five (5) calendar days after sentencing.
- PHSU must also take one of the following actions within thirty (30) calendar days after receiving notice of any criminal conviction of an employee.
- Require the employee to participate satisfactorily in voluntary assistance or rehabilitation program approved for such purposes by a state or federal health agency, the Department of Justice and other appropriate.
- Proceed with a relevant institutional action, including termination of job.
- In addition to the aforementioned, every employee is subject to the rules applicable to their classification.
- In some cases, if the offense is a not a significant one, employee could be referred to counseling services or a rehabilitation program.
- A letter on the personnel file is applicable in all cases.
Approved Locations PHSU
Puerto Rico
PHSU Main Campus
388 Zona Industrial Reparada 2
Ponce, PR 00716
PO BOX 7004
Ponce, PR 00732-700
San Juan University Center
Calle Rosales Esq. San Antonio PDA 26 ½
Santurce, PR 00914
Saint Louis, MO
St. Louis Campus
2351 Market St.
St. Louis, MO 63103
Licensure Information
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Professional Licensure
Licensure as a Doctor in Medicine is regulated by the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) while individual states are typically overseen by State Medical Boards. All 50 states and the US Territories require graduation from an LCME accredited program as well as passing the 3 step USMLE in order to obtain a license and practice as a Doctor of Medicine. Ponce Health Sciences University Doctor of Medicine program is an LCME-accredited program that aims to prepare graduates to sit for the USMLE. Some states have unique licensure requirements. For example, a jurisprudence exam is required in some states to test the graduate’s knowledge of state laws, rules, and practice acts that govern medical practice. Some require satisfactory background checks. These unique requirements are not associated with preparation in the PHSU MD program. The following link for the Federation of State Medical Boards provides contact information for individual state licensing authorities: https://www.fsmb.org/
Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD)
Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology
Bachelor in Science in Nursing