Religion & Creed

Pursuant to both federal and Montana law, the University does not discriminate on the basis of religion. Religious discrimination is the denial of privileges or benefits of education or employment, or the denial of the opportunity to participate in university activities, because of an individual’s religion. The term “religion” includes all aspects of religious observance and practice, as well as religious belief.

Protection is not limited to traditional or organized religions. As explained by the United States Supreme Court:

Religious experiences which are as real as life to some may be incomprehensible to others. Local boards and courts in this sense are not free to reject beliefs because they consider them “incomprehensible.” Their task is to decide whether the beliefs possessed are sincerely held and whether they are, in [the individual’s] own scheme of things, religious.

However, a belief that functions as a mere personal preference is not protected.

Generally the University must reasonably accommodate an individual’s religious observances, practices, and beliefs. However, the University has no duty to do so if the accommodation would cause an undue hardship.