This critical discourse analysis examines discourse used in sexual violence policies and procedures at residential campuses within the University System of Maryland. To support critical discourse analysis, a power--conscious framework and discourse analysis were used for the conceptual framework. Supporting the conceptual framework, as well as this research, was existing literature on ever--changing federal policies and how they affect higher education institutions. Additionally, literature revealed that higher education has an ever-growing issue to address regarding sexual violence, as prevalence rates revealed how prevalent sexual violence is on campus. With the ever--growing prevalence rates, institutions must understand how the location, as well as the discourse of sexual violence policies and procedures, affect the campus community. The findings revealed that institutions, intentionally or not, fail at being clear and concise with sexual violence policy and procedure information. Additionally, institutions do not provide discourse that can be understood by all, which indicates power relations between the institution and the campus community. The research exposes that institutions are reactive rather than proactive regarding sexual violence on higher education institution campuses and that to better help the campus community, restructuring of policies and procedures must occur. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]