Consensual Romantic, Amorous, or Sexual Relationship Policy
Montclair State University is committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all members of our campus community, while protecting students, faculty, and staff from potential conflicts of interest and misconduct. In support of this commitment, the University maintains a clear policy regarding consensual romantic, amorous, or sexual relationships.
You can review the full Consensual Romantic, Amorous, or Sexual Relationship Policy to learn more about requirements, coverage, and reporting guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a “student” under this Policy?
“Student” as used in this Policy applies to any individual who is currently registered and enrolled in at least one credit-bearing course at the University. This includes both undergraduate and graduate students, both full-time and part-time students, and both commuter students and students who reside on campus.
Why does this Policy only cover romantic, amorous, or sexual relationships?
This policy is rooted in both New Jersey state and federal laws against sexual harassment. While the University encourages all Students and Employees to act respectfully and appropriately in all relationships, this Policy specifically seeks to ensure compliance with such laws, including maintaining a safe work environment for employees and students that is free from sexual harassment.
Does the Policy require you to report former relationships?
No, the Policy only requires the reporting of current relationships.
The Policy prohibits relationships between Employees and Students. What about relationships between Student-Employees and other Students?
Student-Employees are permitted to engage in romantic, amorous, or sexual relationships with other Students so long as the Student-Employee does not, through employment duties, have the ability to impact decisions related to the Student’s academic, athletic, employment, extracurricular, financial, or residential experience at the University.
What constitutes a “relationship” under this Policy?
Two or more individuals mutually connecting or pursuing one another in a manner that is either romantic, amorous, or sexual in nature constitutes a “relationship” under this Policy. This Policy applies even if such relationships are non-exclusive or short-lived and includes romantic or amorous relationships that do not involve physical intimacy. This Policy does not limit friendships that are not romantic, amorous, or sexual in nature.