In recognition that extended periods of leave from regular University duties may enhance the professional effectiveness of University faculty, the University has developed a variety of paid and unpaid leaves to meet those needs. Extenuating personal circumstances that prevent faculty members from carrying out their duties are also recognized in policies and programs that provide for paid and unpaid leaves in appropriate instances. Certain University holidays and closure rules affect the responsibilities of all faculty and staff. Regular employees are granted time off work without loss of regular compensation on seven (7) University-designated holidays, plus one floating holiday per twelve month calendar year (see SPG 201.26-0). There are other periods when classes are not held but University offices remain open (for example, University Spring break and Martin Luther King, Jr. Day; see handbook subsection 8.D.1 “Academic Calendar”). University policies related to vacation allowance are relevant for all faculty on twelve-month appointments.

Leaves of absences for librarians, archivists, and curators, are governed by Article XXIII and Article XXIV in the LEO-GLAM collective bargaining agreement.

Effective July 1, 2026, faculty who are responsible for the oversight of research labs and creative spaces monitored by Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) must establish a proxy-based research continuity plan in cases of sabbatical or other extended leaves of absence that would result in their absence for extended periods of time. See https://research.umich.edu/research-safety/safety-updates/ for more information.

 

Updated 2025