Notice to Persons Who Have Prior Felony Convictions

State University of New York Board of Trustees policy prohibits SUNY campus admission applications from inquiring into an applicant's prior criminal history.  After acceptance, the University shall inquire if the student previously has been convicted of a felony if such an indidivual seeks:

• On-campus housing,
• Participation in clinical or field experiences,
• Participation in interships/cooperative experiences,
• Particiaption in study abroad programs.

The information required to be disclosed under SUNY Board of Trustees policy regarding such felony convictions shall be reviewed by a standing campus committee consistent with the legal standards articulated in New York State Corrections Law.

Students who have previously been convicted of a felony are advised that their prior criminal history may impede their ability to complete the requirements of certain academic programs and/or meet licensure requirements for certain professions.  Specific SUNY New Paltz majors may pose challenges in obtaining field experiences, internships, or licensing for individuals with prior criminal convictions.  The programs include, but are not limited to:

• Accounting
• Adolenscence (Secondary) Education
• Art Education
• Early Childhood & Childhood Education
• Communication Disorders
• Counseling
• Music Therapy
• Psychology
• Human Services
• Pre-Health Professions

Individuals with prior criminal histories are advised to seek advice and guidance from the chairperson of the academic department regarding the impact of a criminal record on meeting the requirements of the major/professional licensure or certification prior to declaring the major.