State University of New York (SUNY) policy prohibits Buffalo State admission applications from inquiring into an applicant’s prior criminal history. After acceptance, the college shall inquire if the student previously has been convicted of a felony if such individual seeks campus housing or participation in clinical or field experiences, internships or study abroad programs. The information required to be disclosed under SUNY policy regarding such felony convictions shall be reviewed by a standing campus committee consistent with the legal standards articulated in New York State Corrections Law. Students who have previously been convicted of a felony are advised that their prior criminal history may impede their ability to complete the requirements of certain academic programs and/or to meet licensure requirements for certain professions.
Students who indicate that they have been convicted of felonies will be reviewed by a standing review committee chaired by the dean for students. The dean of students has been designated as the campus liaison with parole, probation, and correctional alternatives offices.
A copy of the unsuppressed criminal history record from the NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services, or the equivalent document for jurisdictions outside of New York State
If currently on parole or probation status, references from the NYS Department of Correctional Services Division of Parole or the Office of Probation and Correctional Alternatives
A personal interview with the campus committee, if the committee deems it necessary
It is incumbent on the student to provide all information in a timely manner, as failure to do some may delay or preclude participation in the requested activity/program
Review the submitted information
Conduct a personal interview if deemed necessary
Evaluate all information
Make a determination regarding whether the participation in the activity will be granted or denied
If granted, make a determination of any conditions required for the participation
Notify the student and the impacted office in writing of the committees determination
The determination of the committee is final. However, students may submit a new request if circumstances change.
Some content on this page is saved in PDF format. To view these files, download Adobe Acrobat Reader free. If you are having trouble reading a document, request an accessible copy of the PDF or Word Document.
