Academic Integrity and Student Conduct Process

APSU Academic Integrity and Student Conduct Flow Chart

Student Academic Integrity Process

This process outlines the steps taken when a possible academic misconduct violation is identified.

1. Reporting and Referral

A faculty member identifies a potential academic misconduct violation, such as plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, or collusion. The case is then submitted to the Office of Community Care & Standards. This office investigates and determines if an informal resolution or a conduct hearing is appropriate.

2. Notification and Preparation

Written Notification Sent: The student receives a written notification that includes the alleged violation(s), their rights, and the time and location of the conduct meeting or hearing.
Meeting or Hearing Scheduled: A student conduct meeting or hearing is officially scheduled.
Student Encouraged To: The student is encouraged to take the following steps:
- Schedule a preliminary meeting with the Community Care & Standards department to go over case details.
- Select an optional support person or advisor.

Note: If a student does not respond or attend a scheduled meeting, they waive their right to a hearing.

3. Outcome Determination

Following the meeting or hearing, a decision is made.

If Found Not Responsible:
- The student receives an outcome letter, and the case is closed.
- The faculty member is notified of the outcome in a separate email and will determine the grade for the assignment or course in question.
If Found Responsible:
- The student receives an outcome letter detailing the decision and is assigned corrective actions and/or sanctions.
- The student must complete all assigned sanctions.
- The student can choose to appeal the outcome, but only for sanctions of university suspension or expulsion.

A survey is sent to the student via email within three business days after they receive their outcome letter. For more information, the APSU Student Handbook can be found via the Academic and Classroom Misconduct Reporting Form.

Student Conduct Process

This process is followed for alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct.

1. Report, Investigation, and Charges

An incident report is filed regarding an alleged violation of the Code of Conduct. The violation is investigated, and the case is referred to a Hearing Officer or Hearing Panel, at which point charges are filed.

2. Notification and Hearing Preparation

Written Notification: The student receives written notification which includes details of the violation and the time and location of the hearing.
Hearing Scheduled: A student conduct meeting or hearing is officially scheduled.
Student Encouraged To: The student is encouraged to take the following steps:
- Schedule a preliminary meeting with the Community Care & Standards department to review the case details.
- Notify the Hearing Officer of any witnesses they plan to have.
- Select an optional support person or advisor.

Note: If a student does not respond or appear for a scheduled meeting, they waive their right to a hearing.

3. Outcome Determination

A decision is reached based on the hearing.

If Found Not Responsible:
- The student is sent an outcome letter, and the case is officially closed.
If Found Responsible:
- The student receives an outcome letter and is assigned sanctions.
- The student must complete all assigned sanctions.
- The student has the option to appeal, but only for sanctions involving University or Residence Hall suspension or expulsion.

After the outcome letter is sent, the student will receive a survey via email within three business days.

Student of Concern Case Flow

This process is initiated when a support need for a student is recognized.

Student of Concern Form: A "Student of Concern Form" is submitted and routed to the Community Care and Standards Department.
Outreach: The department conducts outreach to the student.
Case Management: Correspondence is sent, and this stage is where most of the work and time is invested. Activities include sending correspondence, holding meetings, entering notes, and completing tasks.
Optional Appointment: The student may have an optional meeting with the Care and Conduct Coordinator. In this meeting, resources and support are identified for the reported concern.
Follow-up: If applicable, a follow-up is conducted.
Case Closure: The case is closed when no further action is needed.