Drug and Alcohol Policies

Drug and Alcohol Policies

Alcohol Policy

The Colorado School of Mines Board of Trustees has adopted an alcohol use policy in keeping with state and local laws governing the use, distribution, and consumption of alcohol. The university is committed to responsible behavior and as such, the alcohol policy is designed to encourage responsible drinking and behavior. Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary and/or legal action.

Colorado law prohibits consumption of alcoholic beverages for people under age 21. Furthermore, social host liability may be imposed on persons serving or permitting the serving of alcohol to minors, visibly intoxicated persons, or habitual drinkers.

Students shall not engage in the unauthorized or unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, use/abuse of alcohol and/or illicit drugs on college property or as part of any college activity. Any attempt to sell alcoholic beverages without authorization and licensing violates Colorado State liquor code and is also subject to university disciplinary action. To obtain a special event liquor license, meet with the Associate Dean of Students a minimum of 60 days prior to the event.  Student organizations wishing to hold a function at which alcoholic beverages will be served in any campus facility or on campus grounds must first receive approval by the Associate Dean of Students.

Mines students are accountable for their actions and judgment and are expected to make responsible decisions regarding alcohol. Violations of this policy are subject to appropriate institutional and legal sanctions.

Illegal Drug Policy

The Colorado School of Mines prohibits the sale, manufacture, distribution, use or possession of illegal drugs on the Mines Campus. Sale, distribution or manufacturing of illegal drugs by a member of the Mines campus community will normally result in the administration taking action to curtail the activity.  This policy applies within or upon the grounds, buildings, or any other facilities of the campus.  Sanctions may be imposed upon individuals found in violation of these policies, as well as violation of criminal laws controlling drugs and alcohol.

More specific and detailed information about Mines institutional policies addressing drugs and alcohol concerns can be found in student handbooks, personnel offices, or administrative policy information.  Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to obtain this information through Student Life or the Human Resources office.

All student events at which students and alcohol are present, must be properly approved by the Associate Dean of Students prior to the event. This includes both on and off campus events as well as student events planned by faculty or staff members. Beer and wine are the only types of alcohol allowed at student events. Hard liquor is never permitted at student events.

Mines offers, through the Office of Student Development and Academic Services, proactive alcohol and drug abuse programs designed to educate students to the dangers of substance abuse and making healthy choices. These programs are supplemented by a drug education component of the freshman general physical education course. For more information on Colorado laws, visit the state website.

Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act

The Colorado School of Mines, in compliance with the federal government’s Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act, wants students to be aware of community standards and potential consequences pertaining to the illegal use of alcohol or drugs.

Mines will impose sanctions on any student found to be in violation of campus standards as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct. Sanctions include, but are not limited to, requirements to complete an appropriate education or rehabilitation program, suspension or expulsion from Mines, and/or referral to the appropriate authorities.

For additional information on Drug and Alcohol Policies (as well as other policies) visit the Mines Policy Library.