At Boston University, academic misconduct is governed by the Academic Conduct Code and handled by the student’s school or college rather than by one central office. A case can be resolved with an Agreement for Resolution, which BU’s code says a student is not required to sign, or by a hearing before the school’s Academic Conduct Committee. Under BU’s code, the most serious sanctions, including suspension and expulsion, can only come through the Academic Conduct Committee.
A note on policies: universities revise their codes and procedures over time, and individual BU schools and colleges publish their own versions of the Academic Conduct Code. The process that governs any particular case is the one in effect for that case. This article describes the general structure of BU’s process as the university has published it. The current code for the relevant school or college is the controlling source.
Who Handles Academic Misconduct at BU?
Academic misconduct is handled by the BU school or college involved, under the Academic Conduct Code.
BU’s Code of Student Responsibilities, which covers non-academic conduct, states that conduct that potentially violates academic standards is addressed by the schools and colleges.
What Is an Agreement for Resolution?
It is a form a student can sign to resolve a case by accepting responsibility and an agreed grading penalty, without a hearing.
According to BU’s Academic Conduct Code, a student charged with academic misconduct is not compelled to sign it. A student who doesn’t sign can have the case heard by the Academic Conduct Committee of the school or college.
When Does a Case Go to the Academic Conduct Committee?
Under BU’s code, a case goes to the Academic Conduct Committee when the student disputes the charge, when the offense is a repeat or serious one, or when the designated dean doesn’t approve a resolution.
At the hearing, the committee considers the charge and the evidence, including a statement by the student, and decides whether academic misconduct occurred.
Can a Student Have an Advisor at BU?
Yes. BU’s Academic Conduct Code states that the student may be accompanied by an advisor of the student’s choice at the hearing, and that the advisor may not otherwise participate directly.
BU’s Code of Student Responsibilities, which governs non-academic conduct cases, defines an advisor as a person, including a parent, friend, faculty member, or attorney, who may accompany a student to a meeting, interview, or hearing.
What Sanctions Can BU Impose?
Sanctions can range from grading penalties to reprimand, disciplinary probation, suspension, and expulsion.
BU’s code states that the sanctions of reprimand, disciplinary probation, suspension, and expulsion can be imposed only through action of the Academic Conduct Committee. It also states that during a suspension, no coursework may be undertaken for BU credit and no BU degree may be conferred.
Can a BU Decision Be Appealed?
Yes. BU’s Academic Conduct Code provides a process for appealing decisions, and the route and grounds are set by the code in effect for the case.
For more on appeals generally, see appealing an academic misconduct decision.
Common Misconceptions About BU Cases
“BU’s Dean of Students handles cheating cases.” BU states that conduct potentially violating academic standards is addressed by the schools and colleges.
“I have to sign the Agreement for Resolution.” BU’s code states that a student is not compelled to sign it.
“A dean can suspend me directly for cheating.” BU’s code reserves reprimand, probation, suspension, and expulsion for the Academic Conduct Committee.
“I can’t bring anyone with me.” BU’s code allows a student to be accompanied by an advisor of their choice at the hearing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who handles academic misconduct at Boston University?
The student’s school or college, under BU’s Academic Conduct Code.
Do I have to sign an Agreement for Resolution at BU?
No. BU’s code states that a student charged with academic misconduct is not compelled to sign it and may have the case heard by the Academic Conduct Committee.
Can I bring an advisor to a BU Academic Conduct Committee hearing?
Yes. BU’s code states that a student may be accompanied by an advisor of their choice, who may not otherwise participate directly in the hearing.
Can BU suspend a student for academic misconduct?
Yes, but BU’s code states that suspension and expulsion can be imposed only through action of the Academic Conduct Committee.
Representation in Boston University Academic Misconduct Cases
Every case turns on its specific facts and on the university’s policies as they stand at the time of the case, and codes and procedures can change. Attorney Richard Asselta is a student defense attorney who represents students in academic misconduct cases at colleges and universities nationwide, including Boston University. Call 855-338-5299.