When you have to deal with an issue at Concordia-Chicago, your first step toward a resolution is to work directly with the faculty or staff member where the issue began. Set up an appointment with the individual to communicate your concerns. Many problems are easily solved this way.
If you are unable to reach a resolution, your next step is to work with the supervisor of the University area where your issue resides. To find the appropriate supervisor, use the student handbook, academic catalog or contact the Office of the Dean of Students (dos@cuchicago.edu/708-209-3005) for guidance.
If you are unable to reach a resolution to your issue after meeting with the individual and/or supervisor, you may submit a complaint. A "Complaint" is defined as an expression of dissatisfaction concerning a University employee, department, service, process, or a University administrative action that requires investigation and/or resolution.
If your complaint is about a grade, all students are required to follow the academic appeals process outlined in the student handbook and academic catalog. Do not use the form below to complete a complaint about a grade.
Please note, submitting a Complaint does not relate to University appeals. To review a listing of University appeals, see the student handbook and or academic catalog.
How to file a complaint:
1. A student complaint must be made using the form below.
2. When completing the form, be as specific as possible. Provide names, dates and locations.
3. The complaint is required to be submitted within 15 business days from the date of the complaint occurrence.
4. You will receive a submission acknowledgement when you submit the complaint. Keep this acknowledgement for your records.
5. The Office of the Dean of Students will receive each complaint and determine the appropriate course of action.
6. The Office of the Dean of Students will refer complaints requiring further action to the appropriate administrative official (typically a Dean or Director)
for investigation and resolution.
7. Within 10 business days after receiving the complaint, the Office of the Dean of Students will advise the student in writing either (a) that it has referred the complaint to an administrator for investigation and resolution, and to whom the complaint was referred, or (b) that it has dismissed the complaint and the reason(s) for dismissal.
8. An administrator who receives a complaint has 20 business days from the date of the referral to investigate and address the complaint. During the investigation and resolution process, the administrator will communicate directly with the student who filed the complaint. At the conclusion of the investigation and resolution, the administrator will notify the student and the Office of the Dean of Students in writing of the results of the investigation and the resolution of the complaint.
9. The Office of the Dean of Students may extend the investigation period beyond 20 business days by notifying the student in writing who filed the complaint.
10. A complaint may be dismissed without further action if the student fails to cooperate in the investigation.
If you have any questions about the complaint process, contact the Office of Dean of Students via email: dos@cuchicago.edu or phone: 708-209-3005.
