The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) has a long-standing commitment to supporting the diverse religious beliefs and practices of its students. This dedication is rooted in the University’s core values of respect, equity, and well-being and ensures that all students feel valued and supported in their academic pursuits.
In keeping with this commitment, UMB has updated its policy regarding academic accommodations for religious observances in accordance with the University System of Maryland Policy III-5.10-Concerning the Scheduling of Academic Assignments on Dates of Religious Observance; Campus Space for Faith-Based or Religious Practices.
Key Policy Changes:
- Academic Accommodations for Religious Observance: Students can request reasonable accommodation to observe a sincerely held faith-based or religious belief or to participate in religious activities should such observance conflict with an exam, assignment, or other academic requirement. Reasonable accommodation may include an excused absence or a reasonable alternative accommodation, consistent with University and school policies and procedures. The policy includes guidance for students, faculty, and schools about determining what accommodations are reasonable and on managing accommodation requests.
- New Faith and Religious Practice Space: The University also has established a new shared space that provides a welcoming environment for prayer, meditation, and other spiritual practices. Located on the third floor of the Health Sciences Human Services Library, the room complements the existing faith-based spaces on or near the Baltimore campus and is open to UMB community members who wish to engage in faith-based and religious observance.
Resources for Spiritual Wellness
The Dimensions of Wellness webpage has been updated to provide information about new and existing faith-based spaces and additional campus resources designed to support the spiritual wellness of students. Please visit the space usage guidelines for each location.
For further details on the updated policy, visit UMB Policy Concerning the Scheduling of Academic Assignments on Dates of Religious Observance; Campus Space for Faith-Based or Religious Practices.