Privacy & Data Protection
Texas Southern University is committed to protecting student privacy and securing personal data. Our privacy policies and data protection measures ensure compliance with industry standards and legal requirements, keeping your information safe. Learn more about how TSU safeguards confidential records, cybersecurity, and data access to support a secure academic environment.
Understanding Data Privacy
Data privacy involves handling personal information with care to ensure its confidentiality, integrity, and availability. It includes processes and policies for collecting, storing, sharing, and using data to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access and breaches.
Importance of Data Privacy
Data privacy is essential to prevent misuse of information, which can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and unauthorized access to records. Awareness of data privacy practices helps protect individuals and ensures a secure academic journey.
Role of Universities
Universities play a crucial role in data protection by implementing policies and procedures to handle information responsibly. Compliance with data privacy laws, such as FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), safeguards students' rights and maintains a safe learning environment.
Student Information
TSU collects and maintains information about its students (Student Information) in order to fulfill legitimate educational interests. TSU complies with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) when collecting, maintaining, and disclosing student records. TSU students have rights regarding their records, including the right to inspect, review, and request the amendment of incorrect records. For additional information regarding these rights and TSU's practices regarding Student Information, please see the Texas Southern University Policy Manual.
Student Information is collected from a variety of sources, including but not limited to application materials submitted to TSU, financial records, faculty records, and through the MyTSU student portal. Student Information generally includes the following information about Texas Southern University students:
- Demographic information including name, mailing address, email address, date of birth, and military status;
- Student education records including grades, class enrollments, and faculty notes;
- Health-related information, including immunizations and other health records;
- Financial information, including financial aid records and account information;
- System usernames and passwords.