6.1 Nondiscrimination

Nondiscrimination Policy Statement

The University of California, in accordance with applicable Federal and State Law, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including sexual harassment), gender identity, pregnancy/childbirth and medical conditions related thereto, disability, age, medical condition (cancer-related), ancestry, marital status, citizenship, sexual orientation, or status as a Vietnam-era veteran or special disabled veteran. This nondiscrimination policy covers student admission, access, and treatment in University programs and activities.

Inquiries regarding the University's student-related nondiscrimination policies may be directed to the Director of the Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination (OPHD). Email: ask_ophd@berkeley.edu, or telephone: 510-643-7985. Complaints of discrimination should be directed to OPHD, as above.

Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination

The Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination (OPHD) is responsible for ensuring the University provides an environment for faculty, staff and students that is free from discrimination and harassment on the basis of categories including race, color national origin, gender, age and sexual orientation/identity. This campus Office has the specific responsibility for providing prompt and effective responses to all complaints of sex discrimination or harassment for faculty, staff and students. The Office also responds to concerns from faculty and students regarding other forms of discrimination as covered by University Nondiscrimination policies-- such as, age, religion, national origin, etc.

Sexual Harassment and Violence Policy

The University of California is committed to creating and maintaining a community free of sexual violence and sexual harassment. Sexual violence and sexual harassment violate both law and University policy. Any member of the University community may report conduct that may constitute sexual violence, sexual harassment, retaliation, and other prohibited behavior (“Prohibited Conduct”). The University will respond promptly and equitably to such reports, and will take appropriate action to stop, prevent, and remedy the Prohibited Conduct, and when necessary, to discipline the Respondent.

In addition to sexual harassment, discrimination based on sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sex- or gender-stereotyping, and sexual orientation violates law and other University policies. Such discrimination may also contribute to the creation of a hostile work or academic environment based on sex and thus constitute or contribute to sexual harassment. Harassment that may not be sexual, but still contributes to a hostile work or academic environment, may also violate the University’s other non-discrimination policies. For complete policies and reporting procedures please see the University of California Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy.

Sexual Violence/Sexual Harassment Prevention Training

As part of the University of California's commitment to sustaining a community that is safe and affirming, all UC campuses provide sexual violence/sexual harassment prevention education to graduate and professional school students (as well as to undergraduates, staff, and faculty).

This sexual violence prevention and response training is mandatory. All Berkeley students attending classes on campus are required to 1) complete an online educational program; AND 2) attend an in-person training. Both forms of training must be completed in order to satisfy this mandatory requirement. Information on how to complete the training requirement is sent to students by the Graduate Division at the beginning of every academic year. For more information and resources on the sexual assault mandatory training requirement please see Sexual Violence/Sexual Harassment Prevention Training.

Additional Resources

PATH to Care Center
Confidential support services and prevention resources

Resources and Support for Sexual Harassment and Assault
Division of Student Affairs - Center for Student Conduct web resources and links to sexual harassment and sexual misconduct policies.

Sexual Harassment and Violence Support and Education
This website provides information regarding sexual assault prevention, education, and reporting. It also contains information about support options, campus policies, and disciplinary procedures relating to sexual misconduct.