Policy Process

Towson University uses standard procedures for formulating and issuing university policies. University policies and procedures are established in order to assure compliance with University System of Maryland (USM) policies and local, state, and federal laws, and to safeguard university resources. 

Divisions, colleges, departments or operating units may develop operating policies to provide guidance to their areas that do not meet all criteria of a university policy. When there is a discrepancy between a Towson University policy and a division, college department or operating unit policy, the university policy shall guide actions. 

To assure compliance, relevance and timeliness, policies undergo four phases: development, coordination, approval and comments, and dissemination. 

Development Phase

A draft policy is developed by the office best aligned with the topical issue. The dean/associate vice president accountable for the office assures the policy meets university standards. The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) reviews the draft policy for compliance with University System of Maryland policies and state, local and federal laws. 

Coordination Phase

The Office of the General Counsel tracks and numbers the developed policy. The university vice presidents review the developed policy to determine how it will affect their respective areas, as well as the university as a whole. 

Approval and Comment Phase

The President鈥檚 Cabinet and groups on the cabinet鈥檚 behalf, including the Academic Senate and Management Advisory and Compliance Services, review the policy. 

Dissemination Phase

The Office of the General Counsel notifies the responsible office of the approval, informs the campus of the new policy and includes it in a university policy repository. 

If you have any questions about the policy process, or for further information please refer to the University Policies and Procedures Policy, or contact the Office of the General Counsel, at 410-704-4003 or