Do Colleges Drug Test? What You Need to Know as a Student

As a student at the University of Arizona, I’ve often wondered about the drug policies on campus. While universities have specific approaches, community colleges also implement policies and procedures to ensure campus safety and support a conducive learning environment.

With the rising opioid epidemic and increasing concerns about substance abuse, it’s natural to question whether colleges drug test their students. So, when and where do colleges drug test?

In this paper, we’ll explore the answers to this question, and what it means for students like you and me, focusing on the drug testing policies and their implications for students.

The Short Answer: It Depends on the Circumstances

Unlike high schools, which are required by law to have a drug testing policy in place, colleges and universities have more flexibility when it comes to drug testing. Some colleges may have a strict drug testing policy, while others may have a more lenient approach.

Why Do Colleges Implement Mandatory Drug Testing?

Colleges that do drug test their students often do so for a few reasons:

• Athletic programs: Many colleges require student-athletes to undergo drug testing as part of their participation in NCAA sports.

• Federal grants and contracts: Colleges that receive federal grants or contracts may be required to have a drug-free campus policy in place, which can include mandatory drug testing.

• Student safety: Colleges may drug test students who are suspected of drug use or who have been involved in an incident related to drug use.

A notable case ruled by the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals highlighted the complexity of mandatory drug testing in colleges, determining that such policies must meet strict criteria to not violate the Fourth Amendment, except in cases involving safety-sensitive programs.

How Do Colleges Drug Test Student Athletes?

Colleges that drug test their students usually do so through one of the following methods:

• Urine tests (urine drug screen): These are the most common type of drug test, and can detect a range of substances, including marijuana, cocaine, and opioids. They are often required for pre-employment testing and compliance with external entities.

• Saliva tests: These are less invasive than urine tests and can detect recent drug use.

• Hair follicle tests: These can detect drug use over a longer period of time.

The importance of the urine sample in the testing process cannot be overstated. It involves specific requirements for volume and specific gravity analysis to ensure the sample is adequate and has not been diluted or manipulated, which is crucial for the accuracy of the test results.

What Happens if You Fail a Drug Test Under College Testing Policies?

If you receive a positive test after failing a drug test, the consequences can vary depending on the college’s policy. Following a positive test result, the procedures typically involve re-testing the specimen, reporting to designated personnel, and possibly declaring eligibility or the option for a second sample test by a different certified lab.

Some colleges may require you to undergo counseling or treatment, while others may impose disciplinary action, such as probation or even expulsion.

Phoenix and Scottsdale: Drug Testing in Major Arizona Cities

As students at the University of Arizona, we’re not far from the city of Phoenix, which has seen a rise in drug-related incidents in recent years. According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, opioid overdoses have increased by 76% in Maricopa County since 2018.

This growing concern has led some colleges in the area to re-examine their drug policies and consider implementing drug testing programs. Fortunately, Maricopa County and the city of Scottsdale in particular have rehab options that are fully accredited and accept most student insurance and Medicaid plans as well.

What Can You Do to Stay Safe Regarding Drugs In College?

Whether or not your college drug tests, it’s important to prioritize your safety and well-being. Here are a few tips:

• Know your college’s drug policy and federal law: Take the time to read your college’s drug policy and understand what’s expected of you, including how it aligns with federal law regarding illegal drugs as intoxicants, narcotics, marijuana, or any other controlled substance.

• Seek help if you need it: If you’re struggling with substance abuse or addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted adult or seek help from a counseling center.

• Make healthy choices: Surround yourself with people who support your goals and make healthy choices that align with your values.

Drug Testing Programs Exist for School Integrity and Safety

While not all colleges drug test their students, it’s important to be aware of your college’s drug policy and the potential consequences of drug use. For instance, the State Technical College of Missouri implemented a notable drug testing policy targeting students enrolled in safety-sensitive programs, which was later scrutinized for its constitutionality.

This highlights the significance of understanding the specific contexts in which drug testing occurs, such as at a designated testing facility where student-athletes might be tested during NCAA championship events.

Reaching Out for Support if You Struggle with Drugs in College

Ultimately, comprehending the scope and purpose of a college’s testing program is crucial for students to navigate their responsibilities and rights effectively. As students at the University of Arizona, we have a responsibility to prioritize our safety and well-being and to seek help if we need it.

By staying informed and making healthy choices, we can thrive on campus and beyond… so stay informed and stay safe, Wildcats!