Student Complaints & Concerns

Start here to identify your issue and find the right process.

East Carolina University (ECU) is committed to providing a positive educational experience. If you encounter a concern, there are processes available to help resolve it.

Not sure where to start? Contact the Office of the Dean of Students for guidance.

Free Speech Issue

• Examples: You feel your freedom of expression was unfairly restricted.
• What to do:
  • Review the Freedom of Expression Regulation
  • Contact the Office of the Dean of Students for guidance or to report a concern.

Grade Dispute

• Examples: Concern about a course grade.
• What to do:
  • Follow the Grade Appeal Process.

Discrimination, Harassment, or Retaliation

• Examples: Concerns based on race, gender, disability, or other protected class.
• What to do:
  • Includes allegations of Prohibited Conduct, including Title IX-related concerns or interpersonal violence and related misconduct.
  • Submit a Title IX Incident Report.

General Complaint or Institutional Issue

• Examples: Concerns about policies, programs, or university operations.
• What to do:
  • Follow the Institutional Complaints SOP.

Concern About a Faculty or Staff Member

• Examples: Unprofessional, unfair, or inappropriate behavior.
• What to do:
  • Faculty issues (affecting students): Follow the Student Complaint Process outlined in the Faculty Manual.
  • Staff issues (affecting students): Submit a Report a Person of Concern (ECU Cares) or contact Employee Relations (Human Resources).
• Optional Informal Resolution (when appropriate):
  • Speak with the individual or department head first.

Understanding When a Formal Grievance Applies

A formal grievance is only available in limited situations and is not used for the following types of concerns:

• Grade appeals
• Discrimination, harassment, or Title IX-related complaints
• Institutional complaints handled through other established procedures
• Complaints against staff handled through Employee Relations (Human Resources)

When a Formal Grievance May Be Used

A formal grievance may be filed only if:

• The concern is not covered by another established process, and
• The student believes they have been treated in a way that was unreasonable, inconsistent, or not based on stated policies or procedures.

Take the Next Step

View Student Grievance Process & External Options