Academic Misconduct - Introduction

Students and staff are governed by the normal laws which regulate our daily lives. In addition, the University has its own code of rules and conduct which are fundamental to the mission of the University as an institution devoted to the pursuit of excellence in scholarship and research, and to the service of society. These principles apply not only to students but to the whole University community, including staff engaged in research. The principles have been developed over many years and are widely supported by staff and students who are committed to good conduct and academic honesty, and who are keen to see that these values and principles are upheld.

The University Council has defined student misconduct as follows (29 August 1994): Student misconduct includes student academic misconduct and also encompasses conduct which impairs the reasonable freedom of other persons to pursue their studies or research or to participate in the life of the University.

It is very important that all students are familiar with the rules under which they attend the University, use University facilities, and are assessed. This is because students are responsible for managing their own conduct and for knowing what the University's rules concerning good conduct are.

Ignorance of the rules is not an acceptable defence against charges of misconduct.

If you have any concerns about what constitutes misconduct either in general or specific situations, make sure you discuss them with the relevant University authority. In academic matters this will usually be the lecturer in charge of a particular course. Advice can also be obtained from your Head of School, your program co-ordinator, or the Associate Dean (Education). General advice can be obtained from Student Administrative Services.