At Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), an undergraduate academic integrity case begins with the faculty member, who must advise the student and the department chair and consult the dean’s office about how to proceed. Some first violations are resolved by the faculty member. Others, including disputed cases and any case involving a prior violation, go to an Academic Integrity Hearing Panel. For a first violation, CWRU states that a hearing panel can’t impose sanctions beyond what the faculty member proposed. Students may bring an advisor of their choosing.
A note on policies: universities revise their policies and procedures over time, and the process that governs any particular case is the one in effect for that case. This article describes the general structure of CWRU’s undergraduate process as the university has published it. The current Academic Integrity Policy in CWRU’s Bulletin is the controlling source. CWRU’s graduate and professional schools have their own procedures.
How Does a CWRU Case Begin?
A faculty member who suspects an undergraduate violated academic integrity standards advises the student and the department chair and consults the dean’s office about the appropriate course of action.
If the faculty member and student agree a violation occurred and it’s the student’s first, the faculty member can either sanction the student or refer the case to the Academic Integrity Board. A signed faculty report form or a board finding becomes part of the student’s university judicial file.
When Does a Case Go to the Academic Integrity Board?
According to CWRU, a case goes to an Academic Integrity Hearing Panel when the student requests a hearing, when the faculty member requests one, or when it isn’t the student’s first violation.
The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards convenes the panel from approved members of the Academic Integrity Board. At the hearing, both the student and the panel can ask the faculty member questions, and the student normally receives the decision verbally at the end of the hearing.
What Protections Apply to a First Violation?
CWRU’s guidance states that if it’s the student’s first violation, the hearing panel cannot impose sanctions greater than what the faculty member proposed.
CWRU also states that prior violations may be considered when determining sanctions, but prior allegations for which the student was found not responsible may not. According to CWRU’s conduct office, a first academic integrity violation is non-reportable and is considered only if the student has a later violation.
Can a Student Have an Advisor at CWRU?
Yes. CWRU’s conduct office states that a student may be assisted by one advisor of their choosing, and that this is often an academic advisor, a faculty mentor, or a parent.
Can a CWRU Decision Be Appealed?
Yes. An appeal form is included with the outcome letter, and the appeal must be submitted by its due date.
According to CWRU, the appeal panel doesn’t meet with the student. It reviews the hearing materials, the outcome letter, any prior violations, and the appeal petition. For more on appeals generally, see appealing an academic misconduct decision.
Common Misconceptions About CWRU Cases
“Requesting a hearing risks a harsher sanction.” For a first violation, CWRU states the panel can’t exceed what the faculty member proposed.
“Every finding is reported to grad schools.” CWRU’s conduct office states that a first academic integrity violation is non-reportable.
“Past accusations count against me.” CWRU states prior allegations that ended in a not-responsible finding may not be considered.
“I’ll meet with the appeal panel.” CWRU states the appeal panel reviews the materials without meeting the student.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does a CWRU academic integrity case go to a hearing?
When the student requests one, the faculty member requests one, or the case involves a prior violation.
Can a CWRU hearing panel give a harsher sanction for a first violation?
No. CWRU states that for a first violation, the panel can’t impose sanctions greater than the faculty member proposed.
Can I bring an advisor to a CWRU academic integrity hearing?
Yes. CWRU allows one advisor of the student’s choosing.
Can I get outside help with a CWRU academic integrity case?
Yes. CWRU allows an advisor of the student’s choosing, and students can also work with an outside advisor to prepare their statements, evidence, and any appeal.
Getting Help With a Case Western Reserve Case
CWRU’s academic integrity process is an internal university proceeding, not a court case. Richard Asselta is a student defense attorney who serves as an advisor to students in university academic integrity and disciplinary processes nationwide, including at Case Western Reserve, where students may bring an advisor of their choosing. He helps students decide whether to request a hearing, prepare their statements and questions for the faculty member, organize their evidence, and prepare any appeal. Every case turns on its specific facts and on the policies in effect at the time. Learn more about Richard Asselta or call 855-338-5299.