(UB)
Office of Faculty Affairs
University at Buffalo (UB)
Office of Faculty Affairs
Faculty Development
About Faculty Development
Office of Faculty Affairs

New Faculty: Review Important Policies and Procedures

The UB seal.

Build a strong understanding of the policies, expectations and academic requirements that guide your work as a UB faculty member.

  • Familiarize yourself with faculty policies and guidelines in the Faculty/Staff handbook.
    8/17/26
    The Office of the Provost maintains a library of policies and guidelines pertaining to faculty and staff. Here, you will find policies related to tenure and promotion, the role of Faculty Senate, and academic policies, such as academic integrity, grading, incompletes, etc.
  • Review accessibility requirements on the Accessibility at UB website.
    8/17/26
    Updated requirements for digital content accessibility are in effect. All digital content you create and share must be accessible, including digital course materials. This site provides guidance on creating accessible digital content.
  • Gain an understanding of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
    8/17/26
    The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) gives students the ability to inspect their records, and limits others from accessing that information.
  • Review the Academic Calendar.
    8/17/26
    The Office of the Registrar website provides current and future academic calendars.
  • Review undergraduate grading policies.
    8/17/26
    Get information about different types of grades for undergraduate students, including mid-semester and final grades.
  • Review graduate grading/academic policies.
    8/17/26
    The Graduate School maintains a library of academic policies, including grading and assessment for graduate students.
  • Review guidelines and requirements for undergraduate syllabi.
    8/17/26
    Undergraduate Education maintains policies and guidelines related to syllabi. A downloadable syllabus template is available.
  • Review guidelines and requirements for graduate syllabi.
    8/17/26
    Undergraduate Education maintains policies and guidelines related to syllabi. A downloadable syllabus template is available.
  • Familiarize yourself with tenure and promotion policies.
    8/17/26
    The Office of Faculty Affairs hosts the institution's policies, procedures, and personnel actions, including those related to promotion and tenure.
Next Resource: Prepare to Teach

Prepare for a successful semester by exploring the tools, technologies and instructional support available to help you create engaging, accessible learning experiences.

Return to the New Faculty Checklist

This guide brings together essential resources, services and opportunities to help you get started at UB, prepare for teaching and research, connect with colleagues and continue your professional growth.