An Off-Campus Duty Assignment (OCDA, sabbatical leave) is a privilege, not a right. It is an appointment, usually away from the campus, which allows eligible faculty members and senior administrators to pursue approved projects while being relieved of teaching, clinical, research and/or administrative duties for the purpose of enhancing an individual’s professional development and value to the College.
Faculty members and non-classified senior administrators who have completed six years of continuous, full time employment for the UAMS College of Medicine or who have completed six years of continuous, full time employment in the College since a previous OCDA may apply for such an appointment. Application requires a description of the project the individual wishes to undertake, where it will be done, how the work will be funded, and the anticipated value to the individual and to the College and University. The proposed project must serve the needs, objectives, and mission of the College. The University of Arkansas Board of Trustees approves a limited number of such applications annually. Applications must first be approved by one’s Department Chair, the College Promotion and Tenure Committee, the Dean, and the Chancellor before submission to the Board.
OCDAs will not exceed one semester (or six months for employees on twelve month appointments) at full salary, or two semesters (or one year for those on twelve month appointments) at half salary. In accepting a sabbatical leave, the recipient agrees to return to the College for at least one full year following the end of the sabbatical.
Within sixty days after returning from an OCDA, the faculty member or administrator is required to submit a written report of activities and accomplishments during the leave to the Department Chair, Dean, Chancellor, and President.