Enrolled students who become pregnant can request a leave of absence for maternity reasons. The request must be in writing and sent to the College Dean; however, prior to officially requesting a maternity leave, pregnant students must contact the Office of the Dean to discuss how a leave will affect their progress in the academic program and to review options available to them. The amount of leave time granted depends largely on the personal needs of the student and the timing of the birth within the academic program. In addition, students must inform the Office of the Dean of their intentions to return to classes at least one month prior to the end of the leave of absence period. A final decision is reached after careful consideration is given to personal and professional circumstances.