Student Policy Handbook
Admissions & Costs
Previous Education
The Rolf Institute® of Structural Integration will evaluate previous Education and Training and when appropriate, credit maybe granted.
Transfer of Hours
The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration does not guarantee that credit earned in its programs will transfer to any other organization, unless there is a prior written agreement with that organization. The Rolf Institute will allow transfer of the following credits for our 600 hours Advanced Foundations of Rolfing® Structural Integration program: Students must submit an official transcript that shows at least 47 hours of Anatomy, 21 hours of Physiology, 45 hours of Massage or other approved touch training, and 15 hours of Therapeutic Relationship.
Visas for Foreign Students
The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration is an approved school by the U.S. Department of Immigration and Naturalization Services for attendance by non-immigrating international students. Upon acceptance to the training, The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration will provide you with an I-20M-N form. Please be sure to alert the administration about your needs. Students applying for visas must submit verification of funds sufficient to cover tuition and expenses. Please note: There will be an extra fee for expedited delivery of visa documents.
Language Policy
Applicants who wish to enroll in the Rolfing® Certification Training Program at The Rolf Institute must be proficient in the English language which includes the ability to read, write, understand and communicate in English.
English is the language of instruction at The Rolf Institute, Boulder, CO. The Rolf Institute recognizes that applicants must have a proficient level of English to participate and be successful in the Rolfing training learning process. Applicants and students in all classes of the Rolfing training programs are expected to be able to demonstrate (speak, read and understand) English language proficiency and are required to do so.
The Rolf Institute does not offer English-as-a-Second Language instruction nor provide any English language services. The Rolf Institute seeks students from all regions of the United States, and English-speaking students from around the world. Students are expected to be proficient in the English language prior to enrollment.
The Rolf Institute recognizes that students' success in our training programs depends in a large part on your ability to be proficient in English and communications skills. One of the objectives in each program is to enhance students’ communication skills with the instructor, classmates, clients and the general public. This procedure requires levels of proficiency in English and communications required for students to be successful in their training and to continue their studies after Rolfing certification. Students entering into our training are expected to be proficient in the English language. If the instructor determines that a student's language skills are not adequate, they may be required to hire an interpreter at his/her own expense student or may be asked to leave the program until skill level is improved.
Costs
The basic Rolfing® Certification Program typically takes 12 to 18 months to complete. The program must be completed in 24 months from beginning the training. Tuition and Fee information can be found on our website at www.rolf.org/become/tuition.htm, or contact The Rolf Institute of Structural Integrations Admissions Advisor at advisor@rolf.org or 1-800-803-1952. Note: Tuition rates are subject to change.
Following completion of the basic Rolfing Certification Program, Rolfers™ are expected to pursue further specialization in Rolf Movement® Integration and Advanced Rolfing SI. The latter requires at least three years of professional Rolfing practice plus completion of the Advanced Certification Program. Continuing Education and Advanced Rolfing Certification are required in order to maintain one’s certification as
a Rolfer.
Financial Aid
Within the world of financial assistance, there are many different forms available to students. Scholarships are financial awards given to eligible students and do not need be repaid. Grants can be federal, state or privately issued and also do not require repayment. Loans are a form of low-interest debt that must eventually be repaid and are a good option for those who do not qualify for a grant.
The Rolf Institute administers two financial aid programs for students who qualify - Federal Pell Grants and Federal Direct Student Loans. Students receiving Title IV Financial Aid must maintain attendance and academic standards in order to remain eligible for continued participation.
Contact The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration's Admissions Advisor, advisor@rolf.org, for up-to-date information about loan programs and how to see if you qualify.
Tuition Deposit
Students can reserve their space by sending their application, required documentation and the signed Enrollment Agreement, along with a $300 deposit to The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration. A signed Rolf Institute of Structural Integration Enrollment Agreement form, implying that the student has read and understood all policies and procedures, must accompany the application in order for it to be considered. Application and Enrollment Agreement forms are included in the admissions packet which is downloadable at www.rolf.org/become/apply.
Half of the tuition payment for all classes is due two weeks before the class begins. The remaining balance is due halfway through the class. Students will be assessed a late fee of $100 if payment is received after either due date. Students may not begin any class until the appropriate tuition has been paid. Late enrollment is occasionally permitted, depending upon space availability.
Note: Tuition and fees are subject to change. Candidates and students-in-training are given as much advance notice as possible of any changes.
Payment Methods and Terms
The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration accepts major credit cards (MC, VISA, DISCOVER, AMEX), personal and traveler’s checks, and cash. (Do Not Mail Cash.)
Returned Checks Policy
All returned checks will be assessed a $50.00 returned check fee.
Veterans's Administration
The Rolf Institute is approved by the Colorado State Approving Agency for Veteran’s Education and Training benefits. Please see Refund Policy for the refund policy pertaining to veterans.
Refund Policy
The Rolf Institute will retain 1/2 of a student's deposit or $150, whichever is less, for any class dropped within 90 days of its start date. A student shall be refunded tuition in the following manner in the event (and within 30 days of the date) that a student fails to enter a course, withdraws, or has been terminated at any time prior to completion:
- Refund full tuition and fees paid if the applicant is not accepted by the school.
- Refund full tuition and fees paid if the applicant withdraws within three days after signing the enrollment agreement or making an initial payment, provided the applicant has not commenced the course.
- Refund full tuition paid in the event that the school discontinues a course or program of education during the period of time within which a student could have reasonably completed same. This provision shall not apply in the event that the school ceases to operate.
- A retention of a cancellation charge not to exceed $150 or 25% of the program price, whichever is less, if the applicant withdraws after three days of signing the enrollment agreement but before commencement of the program.
- Except for retention of a cancellation charge not to exceed $150 or 25% of the contract price, whichever is less, the policy for cancellation, settlement, and refund of tuition and fees provides for at least the following:
- A student terminating his/her enrollment within the first 10% (ten percent) of the program, the student shall be entitled to a refund of 90% (ninety percent) of the contract price of the program, exclusive of books, tools, and supplies.
- A student terminating his/her enrollment after 10% (ten percent), but within the first 25% (twenty-five percent) of his/her program, the student shall be entitled to a refund of 75% (seventy-five percent) of the program price of the program, exclusive of books, tools, and supplies.
- A student terminating his/her enrollment after 25% (twenty-five percent), but within the first 50% (fifty percent) of his/her program, the student shall be entitled to a refund of 50% (fifty percent) of the contract price of the program, exclusive of books, tools and supplies.
- A student terminating his/her enrollment after 50% (fifty percent), but within the first 75% (seventy-five percent) of his/her program, the student shall be entitled to a refund of 25% (twenty-five percent) of the program price of the program, exclusive of books, tools and supplies.
- A student who has completed 75% (seventy-five percent) of his/her program and has entered the final 25% (twenty-five percent) of his/her program shall not be entitled to any refund and shall be obligated for the full price of the program which constitutes the maximum obligation.
- Refunds will be time-based and determined by the number of contact hours the student has completed.
- The official date of termination of a student shall be determined in the following manner:
- The date on which the school receives notice of the student's intention to discontinue enrollment in the program, or
- The date on which the student violates published school policy which provides for termination.
Refund Policy for Veterans
Military students not accepted by the school and students who cancel the contract by notifying the school within three business days, are entitled to a full refund of all tuition and fees paid. Any students who withdraw after three business days, but before the commencement
of classes, are entitled to a full refund of all tuition and fees paid including the registration fee in excess of $10.
In the case of students withdrawing after commencement of classes, the school will retain a cancellation fee plus a percentage of tuition and fees, which is based on the percentage of contact hours, as described in the table below. The refund is based on the last date of recorded attendance.
Refund Table for Veterans
| Student entitled upon withdrawal/termination |
Refund |
|
| 10% of program completed | 90% Refunded | |
| 20% of program completed | 80% Refunded | |
| 30% of program completed | 70% Refunded | |
| 40% of program completed | 60% Refunded | |
| 50% of program completed | 50% Refunded | |
| 60% of program completed | 40% Refunded | |
| 70% of program completed | 30% Refunded | |
| 80% of program completed | 20% Refunded | |
| 90% of program completed | 10% Refunded |
Return of Title IV Funds
Students who have been on probation and fail to correct the deficiencies by the end of the probationary period will be terminated from federal student aid. Students will be ineligible for aid during the federal student aid termination period.
A student whose aid eligibility has been terminated may request reinstatement of financial aid eligibility after reapplying for admission in the next class. If the student is accepted in the class, the student must attend one month without financial aid. The student’s academic records will be evaluated after one month of class attendance in order to determine if the student is meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress, including the requirement to complete the program within the maximum time frame of 150% of the program’s clock hours and within the calendar limit of 9 months. If Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements are met, the student will once again be eligible for Title IV funds at that time.
If it is not possible for the student to attain Satisfactory Academic Progress, the student will be allowed to enroll only if alternative financing can be arranged, as the student will no longer be eligible for any Title IV financial aid. After having federal financial aid reinstated, the student must, thereafter, maintain a 70 average and complete each modality as it is offered. Not meeting the standard after reinstatement results in loss of eligibility for Title IV federal financial aid.
Federal regulations have been enacted which state that students may forfeit a portion of their federal student financial assistance if they fail to complete the program of study in which they were enrolled. This policy affects students who:
a) received or were eligible to receive federal student financial assistance authorized under Title IV of the Higher Education Act (HEA), i.e., Federal Pell Grants, Federal SEOG awards, or Stafford or PLUS loans awarded under the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) or Federal Direct Student Loan (FDSL) programs, and
b) who withdrew or were terminated from the institution during the first 60% of any payment period or period of enrollment.
Eligible Title IV federal aid recipients who fail to complete more than 60% of a payment period or period of enrollment are considered to have not earned all of the federal aid that may have previously been awarded for that payment period or period of enrollment. Accordingly, a required calculation will be performed to determine the portion of the unearned federal student aid that must be returned to the U.S. Department of Education. This calculation will be done before a tuition refund calculation is performed in accordance with the institution’s refund policy. In many cases, the Return of Unearned Title IV Funds calculation will result in the student owing tuition and fees to the institution that would otherwise have been paid with federal student aid. This policy may also result in the student owing a refund of unearned federal aid to the Department of Education. Unearned Title IV, HEA funds will be returned first to Unsubsidized Direct Loans, followed by Subsidized Direct Loans, Direct PLUS Loans, Federal Pell Grant awards and lastly, to any Federal SEOG awards.
Student Policies
Class Size
Foundations of Rolfing® Structural Integration and Advanced Foundations of Rolfing Structural Integration classes enroll a maximum of 20, with a student/teacher ratio no greater than 10:1.
Embodiment of Rolfing and Rolf Movement® Integration and Clinical Application of Rolfing Theory classes enroll a maximum of 16, with a student/teacher ratio no greater than 8:1.
Class Schedules
Current class schedules, information, and dates for The Rolf Institute® of Structural Integration programs, both domestic and international, are posted on The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration's website at www.rolf.org/risi/schedule.htm. Or call us at 1-800-803-1952.
Cancellation Policy
If the Rolf Institute cancels an individual class, it is the responsibility of the instructor to arrange for make-up of that time. If the Rolf Institute cancels an entire phase of the training, all students will receive a full refund of their tuition and deposit, or can choose to apply their deposit to a future scheduled Phase.
Conduct
The nature of Rolfing SI requires a close client-practitioner relationship. The student's conduct while in class provides the opportunity for the instructor to observe and evaluate the student's professionalism and maturity. Any conduct or behavior by the student which might jeopardize The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration or the reputation of Rolfing SI will be cause for termination. Disruptive behavior displayed towards faculty or classmates that do not support the learning environment will not be tolerated. Students(s) using disruptive behavior may be asked to leave the class and may be terminated from the program. Attending classes under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs or behavior disruptive to the class is cause for termination. Failure to pay tuition in a timely manner is also cause for termination.
The Rolf Institute Student Sexual Harassment Policy
The Rolf Institute prohibits sexual harassment of its students by any Institute employee or other student. Such conduct may result in disciplinary action up to and including discharge or removal from the training and/or The Rolf Institute. The policy covers all students enrolled for training, workshops, continuing education and advanced training. The Institute will not tolerate, condone or allow sexual harassment, whether engaged in by fellow students, employees, ssociates, clients or other non-employees who conduct business with the Institute. Students will receive prompt notification if termination is being considered.
Sexual harassment is any behavior that includes unwelcome sexual advances and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
• Submission to, or rejection of, such conduct is used as the basis for grades, advancement and or training decisions;
• The conduct unreasonably interferes with an individual's education and training performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning environment.
Rolf Institute students, faculty and employees are entitled to work in an environment free from sexual harassment and a hostile or offensive working environment. The Institute recognizes sexual harassment as unlawful discrimination, just as conduct that belittles or demeans any individual on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sexual preference, age, disability, or other similar characteristics or circumstances.
No faculty or staff shall threaten or imply that a student’s refusal to submit to sexual advances will adversely affect that students training, grades, employment, compensation, advancement, assigned duties, or any other term or condition of training or attending The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration for career training and development. Sexual joking, lewd pictures and any conduct that tends to make students, faculty and staff of one gender "sex objects" are prohibited.
Students who have complaints of sexual harassment should (and are encouraged to) report such complaints to the a faculty member, Director of Education or Executive Director. If the Director of Education is the cause of the offending conduct, the employee may report this matter directly to the Executive Director. If the Executive Director is the cause of the offending conduct, the employee may report this matter directly to the Chairperson of the Board of Directors. Your complaint will be promptly and thoroughly investigated. Confidentiality of reports and investigations of sexual harassment will be maintained to the greatest extent possible. Any faculty member, student, staff person, or employee who, after appropriate investigation, is found to have engaged in sexual harassment of another employee or student will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including discharge or removal from the Institute.
If any party directly involved in a sexual harassment investigation is dissatisfied with the outcome or resolution, that individual has the right to appeal the decision. The dissatisfied party should submit his or her written comments to the Executive Director. The Institute will not in any way retaliate against
Student Grievances/Complaints
The process for students to report possible violations of discrimination, sexual harassment or grievance to the administration is as follows:
- Report the incident to the lead instructor within 10 working days of the incident.
- If the violation occurring involves the lead instructor then the student should report the incident to the Compliance Officer / Executive Director.
- Any supporting documentation should be file with the Compliance Officer / Executive Director within 10 working days of the initial reporting of the possible allegation.
- The Compliance Officer / Executive Director will alert the Chair of the Board of Directors of the allegation.
- The Compliance Officer / Executive Director will meet with those involved to investigate the possible allegation to determine the background and versions of the possible violation from those involved.
- The Compliance Officer / Executive Director will make a determination and notify those parties concerned in writing within 30 days, unless another time period is agreed upon by all parties, with a determination as to whether a allegation has occurred and the agreed upon settlement.
- This decision maybe appealed in writing to the Chairperson of the Board of Directors within 5 working days of the notification by the Compliance Officer / Executive Director. The decision of the Chair of the Board of Directors shall be final.
- Should any of the above involve the Executive Director then the Chairperson of the Board of Directors shall assume the appropriate role in the reporting structure. The final appeal in this case shall rest with the Board of Director of RISI.
Note: Should just grounds be determined for the allegation the files and supporting documentation maybe turned over to local authorities for possible consideration for legal proceedings.
Colorado law requires that any complaint filed with the Division of Private Occupational Schools must be filed within two years after the student’s last date of attendance. The Division’s website address is highered.colorado.gov/dpos; the address is 1560 Broadway, Ste. 1600, Denver, C0 80202, and the phone number is 303-866-2723. Complaints may also be filed with The Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA), 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Suite 440, Washington, D.C. 20015.
Privacy Policy/FERPA
The Family Educational Right and Privacy Act of 1974, also known as the Buckley Amendment, protects the privacy of student records. The Act provides for the right to inspect and review education records, the right to seek to amend those records, and to limit disclosure of information for the records. Further details may be found on the FERPA page.
Student Access to Records
As part of FERPA, student have access to their student records as follows:
- The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records within 45 days of the day the School receives the request for access. Rolf Institute student should submit to the Director of Education a written request that identifies the record he/she wishes to inspect. The Director of Education will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the record may be inspected. If the record to be inspected is not maintained by the Director of Education, the student will be advised of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
- The right to request amendment of the student’s educational records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading. A student should write to the Director of Education responsible for the record; clearly identify the part of the record he/she wants amended, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the Rolf Institute decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the student will be notified of the decision and advised of his/her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing
- The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in a student’s educational records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. Disclosure without consent is granted to the Rolf Institute officials with legitimate educational interests. A Rolf Institute official is a person employed by the Rolf Institute in an administrative, supervisory, academic, or support staff position or a student assisting another Rolf Institute official in performing his/her tasks, i.e. a teaching assistant. A Rolf Institute official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review a record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibility.
- The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by The Rolf Institute to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5901
Deceptive Trade or Sales Policy
Colorado Revised Statute, 12-59-117 (1)(i) "(1) Deceptive trade or sales practices. It is a deceptive trade or sales practice for: (i) A school or agent to enroll a student when it is reasonably obvious that the student is unlikely to complete successfully a program of study or is unlikely to qualify for employment in the field for which the education is designed, unless this fact is affirmatively disclosed to the student."
Discrimination
The Rolf Institute does not discriminate against race, color, creed, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability or veteran status in admissions or in its education program or activities.
Disclaimer
The Rolf Institute carefully screens applicants and monitors their progress as they go through training. While The Rolf Institute is the sole certifying body for Rolfing Practitioners, and requires that Rolfers adhere to Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics, The Rolf Institute is not a regulatory agency, and therefore is not responsible for any actions or activities on the part of the Rolfer once he or she has graduated from the Rolfing Training.
Ability to Progress
Attendance
Because of the intensive nature of the Rolfing® Certification Program, one hundred percent punctual attendance is required of all students. One unexcused absence requires a consultation with the instructor. Three unexcused absences is cause for termination. Students are expected to be on time for all classes. Three unexcused tardies are the equivalent of one unexcused absence and require consultation with the instructor.
Daily attendance will be taken by the instructor and/or assistant with a copy of each student’s attendance record retained in his/her file at the completion of each class of study. An exception to this policy would be a death in one's family, acute illness, or other extreme emergency. Exceptions may be granted at the discretion of the instructor. In such cases, the instructor will determine how the work will be made up
Postponement of Starting Date
Postponement of a starting date, whether at the request of the school or the student, requires a written agreement signed by both the student and the school. The agreement must set forth:
- Whether the postponement is for the convenience of the school or the student, and,
- A deadline for the new start date, beyond which the start date will not be postponed.
If the course has not commenced, or if the student fails to attend by the new start date set forth in the agreement, the student will be entitled to an appropriate refund of the deposit as set forth in the agreement, and determined in accordance with the school's refund policy and all applicable laws and rules concerning the Private Occupational Act of 1981.
Leave of Absence
Students may not take more than 12 months between their classes unless they are granted a leave of absence from the program. This leave of absence shall be reviewed and approved by the Student Evaluation Committee. Leaves shall be considered for the following reasons:
(1) Financial (2) Family needs or (3)Personal and professional reasons.
In cases of extreme hardship students may petition the Student Evaluation Committee for a leave of absence. Such a leave of absence will not be unreasonably withheld. At no time will a leave of absence be granted for more than a period of one year. Upon return to RISI, the student's academic and practical skills will be evaluated and, if necessary, remedial work, including repeating program components, may be required for re-admission at the student's expense.
Time Frame for Program Completion
The minimum time frame for completing the program is approximately 12 months with the average time being 18 months. The program length is divided into classes of 2, 6 or 8 weeks. Satisfactory completion of each class must be met before progressing to the next class of study. There are three (3) classes of study to become a certified Rolfer™. The maximum allowable timeframe to complete the program from the beginning Foundations of Rolfing Structural Integration or Advanced Foundations of Rolfing Structural Integration is 24 months or 2 years. The maximum allowable timeframe between classes is one (1) year.
Program extension in circumstances in which a student is unable to complete the program in the normal time frame (e.g., issuing of a learning agreement, repeating courses due to failure, leave of absences, etc.) the student must apply for a Exception to the Maximum Policy Period to the Director of Education, which will be reviewed and approved by the Student Evaluation Committee (SEC). Students granted program extensions must complete the program within an additional 6 months. Failure to complete the program within the maximum time frame will result in dismissal from the program.
When a student needs to repeat a course for any reason, an evaluation will be made by the Director of Education and the Student Evaluation Committee to determine if the repeated course hours will necessitate a program extension.
Progression through the Training
After beginning the program, students may not advance register or place a deposit for any future classes. After attending a class, students must meet with their instructor and the Enrollment manager/Financial Aid Officer following the completion of a final evaluation during the last week.
The factors that affect enrollment for the next required class of training are determined by the following:
1. The fulfillment of all requirements and a passing grade in the prior class.
2. Instructor approval to advance to the next class.
3. Issuance of a Learning Agreement that may affect interim requirements or completion.
4. Your specific choice of class.
5. Availability of seats in an upcoming class.
By the midterm of the course, any student, who presents issues that may require an interim period longer than the minimum three months, will be informed and will receive feedback about the areas that they need to develop.
All students enrolled in Foundations of Rolfing Structural Integration, Accelerated Foundations of Rolfing Structural Integration and Embodiment of Rolfing SI and Rolf Movement Integration will be required to attend a scheduled registration meeting after their midterm evaluations. The purpose of this registration meeting will be to review all requirements for the next course in the training and to complete administrative contracts for registration. This will be a time to go over details, answer questions and make sure that all requirements are complete.
Students who are approved to register may make a class selection at the registration meeting or participate in the drawing for seats in upcoming classes that have a wait list.
Registration is defined as reserving a seat for an upcoming class prior to the completion of the required class in progress. Enrollment becomes official when the student passes and completes all requirements for the upcoming class.
Note: Registration in a class does not become enrollment until the student fully passes a required course and there is evidence that all other requirements are completed.
Any student who receives a Pass at midterm, but manifests learning needs that require a Learning Contract during the second half of a class, will be automatically removed from the roster in any class that may interfere with the requirements of the Learning Contract. Based on the requirements of the Learning Contract, the student can register for another course with a clear understanding that they must complete the Learning Contract prior to the class.
If there is an undersupply of seats in an upcoming class, students who are eligible to register for that class may participate in a random drawing.
Clock Hour Completion Per Class
To ensure that coursework is completed in a manner consistent with a student's ability to complete the program within the maximum allowable timeframe, students must meet minimum credit hour progress requirements for each class.
Credit hours are awarded for every course that a student satisfactorily completes. In order to maintain satisfactory academic progress, each student must have accumulated the required credit hours per class.
Foundations of Rolfing Structural Integration:
218 hours
Accelerated Foundations of Rolfing Structural Integration:
87 hours
Embodiment of Rolfing Structural Integration and Rolf Movement® Integration:
244 hours
Clinical Application of Rolfing Theory:
269 hours
Grading
Grades are assigned at the end of each class of training. The grading system is Pass, Incomplete, Conditional, or Fail.
Pass indicates that all work has been completed in a satisfactory manner with a cumulative grade of 70-100%.
Incomplete indicates that continued work is required to complete the course before being allowed to continue to the next course or receive certification as outlined in the learning agreement.
Conditional indicates that continuing in the program is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of additional work as assigned by the instructor. Written copies of such requirements are provided to the student.
Fail indicates that a student has not successfully completed that class of the program, having received a cumulative grade of 0-69%. The instructor will stipulate whether the student's enrollment should be terminated or if the class may be repeated. Admission to the Rolfing Certification Program is not a guarantee of final certification as a Rolfer. In order to be certified as a Rolfer, students must receive a grade of Pass in Embodiment of Rolfing Structural Integration and Rolf Movement Integration and Clinical Application of Rolfing Theory. If the student has a Conditional Pass, he/she may be granted PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATION until his/her requirements are fulfilled. If the student does not fulfill these requirements by the expiration date on his/her provisional certification, such certification may be revoked.
Evaluation and Progress Reports
Student progress is measured and evaluated by the instructors. Midterm and final interviews are part of each class. During these interviews, students receive oral feedback from their instructors and have the opportunity to discuss their class work. Copies of written evaluations that result from these interviews become part of each student's file.
If a student is in danger of failing, he/she will be notified as soon as this is evident and a learning agreement will be developed with the instructors. The instructors’ concerns will be documented in writing. The student will then have weekly meetings with the instructors, followed by written evaluations, until the instructors believe the situation or condition has improved. If a student's class work does not improve, he/she may be placed on probation. If the situation warrants, the student's training may be terminated. In the case of probation, additional work may be assigned, and a date for re-evaluation will be determined.
Instructors may require the student to have additional supervised practice outside of class, longer study intervals between classes of the training, or repeat a particular class of the training. Any additional work assigned, including repetition of a class of the Rolfing Certification Program, is at the student's expense. All such requirements will have a due date for completion. If the work is not satisfactorily completed by the due date, the student's enrollment will be terminated.
Make-up Policy
Make-up may be allowed depending on the circumstances and in discussion with the faculty member and the student. Make-up for a missed class will be agreed upon by the instructor and the student. A written learning agreement will be developed and signed by both the student and the instructor outlining the work assigned to complete the make-up with an appropriate deadline for the completion.
Incomplete Courses
When a student does not complete all the coursework for a given course (i.e., assignments, tests, or exams) by the conclusion of that course, the student will receive a temporary grade of ‘I’ or incomplete. That student must complete all outstanding coursework within the timeframe outlined in the learning agreement. At that time a final grade and the credit hours for the course will be awarded.
The temporary course grade of 'F' will be changed to a final course grade of 'P', ‘PP” or 'F' if the student has not successfully completed all coursework by the end of that four week period. Under special circumstances, special arrangements for an extension to complete the course may be allowed under written appeal to the Director of Education and the Student Evaluation Committee.
Students with a temporary grade of 'F' are still subject to all Satisfactory Progress requirements. If the incomplete course is a prerequisite for the subsequent course, the student will not be allowed to continue until the prerequisite course has been successfully completed. The grade for a course in which a student has received a temporary ‘F’ will not appear on student transcript until a final grade is awarded. Credit hours for a course in which a student has received a temporary ‘F’ are not awarded until the course is successfully completed.
Repeating a Class
From time to time as students progress thru The Rolf Institute®’s Program of Study the teaching faculty may determine that a student is not prepared, may need further skill development and/or more clinical practice to progress to the next level of their education program. In this case a learning agreement maybe issued to
the student.
At times the above reference learning agreement my require that the student repeat a class of study over in order to gain the necessary skill level to be prepared for the work and to progress to the next class in their program of study.
The student will be responsible for the full tuition for repeating a class in order to bring skill levels up to meet Rolf Institute standards or for the completion of stated learning agreement, unless a lesser amount is decided upon by the Director of Education in collaboration with the Executive Director using the following criteria.
The determination of the amount will be up to the decision of the Director of Education in collaboration with the Executive Director taking into account the following aspects:
- The recommendation of the faculty in which the learning agreement is issued.
- In put from the student being affected.
- The length of the learning agreement between classes.
- The impact of repeating the class on faculty, staff, equipment, scheduling and enrollment availability.
- Any other factors that the Director of Education may wish to use in determination of the stated above percentages for consideration.
Movement Training and Advanced Training are exempt from this policy and should the need occur to repeat these trainings they will occur at the 100% tuition level.
The student has the right to appeal the decision to the Executive Director within 5 working days in writing with supporting documentation. The decision of the Executive Director shall be final.
Dismissal, Suspension, Probation, Voluntary Withdrawal, Termination
Good Standing: Any currently enrolled student who is attending class, current with all payments and has no disciplinary warnings on his or her record.
Dismissal: Students will be dismissed for:
- Failure to fulfill the school's academic requirements
- Failure to fulfill the school's financial requirements
- Failure to fulfill the school's attendance requirements
- Confirmation by the Director of Education and Faculty that the student has violated the Student Code of Conduct
The Executive Director will notify the student in writing of the dismissal including reasons and date of dismissal.
Suspension: Normal suspension is for one class period but may be extended at the discretion of the Director of Education. Suspended classes may not be made up through regular class attendance, and will require additional work outside class in addition to standard make-up fees. Any further violations of any Rolf Institute policy will result in termination.
Probation: A student is considered on academic probation when they have received a Conditional (PP) grade, which indicates that continuing in the program is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of additional work as assigned by the instructor and agreed upon through a Learning Agreement.
Voluntary Withdrawal: Withdrawing students will be refunded their fees according to the Refund Policy based on the last day of attendance. Withdrawing students wishing to return to the Rolf Institute must re-apply as new students and pay any associated costs.
Termination: Students who are terminated will not be eligible for re-enrollment. Students may be terminated from the program for disciplinary reasons or any combination of violations. This may apply at any point in the program. Credit for contact hours completed will be granted only if all tuition and fees are paid in full. Terminated students may not re-enroll.
Returning: Inactive students who have completed an approved leave of absence must return within a year of their last attendance and schedule an advising session to develop a graduation plan. An inactive student may not re-enroll until all past tuition and any fees are paid. A new Tuition Agreement must be signed.
The Right of Appeal
Appealing Denial of Continuance
A student who has been designated as not making satisfactory academic progress, who has not been accepted for a subsequent phase of the Rolfing Certification Program or who has been refused certification may appeal the decision of the instructors. This appeal must be in writing and submitted to the Student Evaluation Chairperson, c/o the Director of Education, within ten (10) working days of the decision in question.
The student’s appeal must document the unusual or mitigating circumstances that caused the student to fail to meet the standards, as well provide information regarding what conditions have changed that would demonstrate that the student could do to remedy their situation. The Executive Director will review the student’s appeal and related documentation, and the resulting decision will be final.
Appealing Termination or Dismissal
- A decision reached by the Director of Education (or his or her designee) may be appealed by either the accused student(s) within ten (10) working days, excluding Saturday and Sunday, of the decision. Such appeals shall be in writing and shall be delivered to the Director of Education Office.
- A decision reached by the Director of Education may be appealed either by the accused student(s) to the Executive Director (or his or her designee) within ten (10) working days of the decision. Such appeals shall be in writing and shall be delivered to the Executive Director (or his or her designee).
- An appeal shall be limited to a review of the verbatim record of the Director of Education hearing and supporting documents for one (or more) of the following reasons only:
• A material deviation from written procedures that jeopardized the fairness of the process.
• New information, that was unavailable at the time of the hearing, would have resulted in a different outcome.
• A demonstrable bias by a member(s) of the staff.
• A sanction that is (substantially) disproportionate to the severity of the violation. - If an appeal is approved by the Executive Director (or his or her designee), the matter shall be returned to the Director of Education, which will take into consideration the suggestions made by the Executive Director (or his or her designee) in addition to the facts that were originally presented.
Reinstatement of Federal Financial Aid
Federal student financial aid is suspended when a student is considered as not making satisfactory academic progress. Aid will be reinstated when the student improves his/her attendance or academics to a level such that minimum standards have been met. If the student begins a payment period not making satisfactory academic progress, but reverses that designation before the end of that payment period, the student will be eligible for federal aid for that payment period.
Graduation Requirements
Those who successfully complete the three courses required of Rolfing Training will receive a certification of completion upon graduation from their final class – Clinical Application of Rolfing Theory. The following requirements must be completed prior to graduation in order to receive your diploma:
- Completion of all coursework with a grade of ‘P’.
- Payment in full of all tuition and fees.
A graduation ceremony is held for Clinical Application of Rolfing Theory class. Information regarding the time and place of the ceremony will be announced to the class by the instructor.
Student Services
Housing & Transportation
During their stay in Boulder, students typically rent rooms in the community at a reasonable cost of $400 - $600 per month. A local, private referral list is available to students upon request. This housing referral list includes pertinent contact information, along with details on location and distance from The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration. Many of the living situations are within walking distance or a short bike ride or drive to The Rolf Institute. The bus system throughout Boulder and Denver is quite convenient. A local bus drops students off just a block away from the school. For bus schedule please check the RTD website at: www.rtd-denver.com. The Rolf Institute is not affiliated with or responsible for any housing options on this list.
Announcements
Class information is sent to all students prior to the beginning of each class. This includes specific information about class schedules and the various services provided by The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration's administrative staff.
Student Records & Transcripts
All student records are permanently on file in the school’s administrative office. Please review Student Access to Records for FERPA rules on access and disclosure. Any student who wishes to see his/her records may do so by appointment during regular office hours. Student records are available to The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration administration, the Student Evaluation Committee, and the faculty of classes in which the student has been enrolled. Records are not available to other parties without the written consent of the student.
Transcripts are available upon request. Official transcripts may be sent to a third party at the specific request of the student.
Certificates
Students receive certificates documenting their successful completion of their course. Only upon successful completion of Clinical Application of Rolfing Theory and after becoming a member of The Rolf Institute will students receive their certification as a Certified Rolfer. The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration also provides certificates for Rolf Movement® Integration Certification, Advanced Rolfing Certification and all The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration CE courses or cosponsored workshops in the Rolf Method of Structural Integration.
Supplies and Equipment
The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration provides students with all the necessary supplies for classroom instruction. These supplies include Rolfing tables, Rolfing benches, linens, audiovisual equipment, digital camera system, orthopedic skeletons, handouts and anatomical charts. Students are expected to purchase their own books and personal supplies.
Library
The Rolf Insitute’s Thorm Droge Memorial Library contains a wide variety of books, Journals, research articles and educational videos on Rolfing, Structural Integration and some allied health topics. Students may also sign out videos and books for at-home study. Students are encouraged to utilize these sources to enhance their learning experience and aid in their career goals.
Placement Assistance
The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration does not have a Placement Office or offer placement services. Rolfers are usually self-employed in private practice. Information about Rolfers who want to share their practices or possibly job opportunities may check the Rolf Institute bulletin board or contact Membership Services regarding information.
Massage Laws and Licensing in States and Municipalities
Certification as a Rolfer does not guarantee a license to practice massage or bodywork in a particular state or city. State and local licensing regulations vary. The Rolf Institute's educational program and courses leading to certification as a Rolfer may not prepare students for licensure in their respective states and municipalities. State and municipal massage licensing laws vary in their content, hour requirement and testing requirements, and in some cases, municipal ordinances may apply in the absence of state law. Students should check to see what the course hours, tests and continuing education requirements are for licensure in the states and city that they wish to practice. For assistance on locating up to date information on licensing in state contact the The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration Enrollment Manager.
For a list of state licensure requirements, please visit the ABMP at www.massagetherapy.com/_content/careers/MTreg.pdf or the AMTA at www.amtamassage.org/regulation/stateRegulations.html.
Calendar & Holidays
Rolf Institute courses are taught in an intensive format of six or eight-week sessions, typically held on weekdays. In rare cases class may be held on a weekend. Accelerated Foundations of Rolfing Structural Integration is taught in a two-week format beginning on a Sunday afternoon or early evening. The Rolf Institute of Structural Integration offerings for Continuing Education, Rolf Movement Certification and Advanced Certification vary in format and structure and may include weekends.
Due to the intensive nature of the training, instruction often continues when courses are in session during holidays. Please check the schedule as posted on www.rolf.org or contact Admissions for the most up-to-date information.
Administrative holidays and the academic schedule do not always coincide. Classes may be in session during hours and days when the administrative offices are closed. Schedules for specific classes may differ from the dates and times listed in the schedule, since faculty members may make changes from time to time. Please check with your instructor or the Education Department to confirm when classes are in session, before scheduling any personal time-off.
Administrative Offices are closed on the following dates.
Holidays and dates when classes are in session are indicated.
| Administrative Holidays | Class Holidays |
| January 1 (New Years Day) | School Closed |
| Martin Luther King Day (January) | Classes in Session |
| Memorial Day (May) | Classes in Session |
| July 4 (Independence Day) | Classes in Session |
| Labor Day (September) | Classes in Session |
| Thanksgiving + Friday after | No Classes Thanksgiving week |
| December 24 (Christmas Eve) | No Classes |
| December 25 (Christmas Day) | No Classes |
| December 26-31 (Winter Break) | No Classes |
