At Santa Clara University (SCU), an academic integrity allegation can lead to two separate tracks. The instructor decides on an academic sanction, such as a grade consequence, and reports the violation to the Office of Student Life, which then pursues it as a violation of the Student Conduct Code. That conduct track can lead to sanctions ranging from a letter of warning to expulsion. SCU also keeps the report on file for the rest of the student’s enrollment, whether or not conduct sanctions are applied.
A note on policies: universities revise their bulletins 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 SCU’s undergraduate process as the university has published it. The current Undergraduate Bulletin and Student Handbook are the controlling sources. Santa Clara Law has its own academic integrity policy.
How Does an SCU Case Begin?
When an allegation arises in a course, resolution begins with the instructor. If the instructor concludes from the available evidence that a violation occurred, the instructor applies an academic sanction, notifies the student of the reason, and reports in writing to the department chair and the Office of Student Life.
SCU students affirm a commitment to academic integrity, pledging to abide by and uphold the standards of academic integrity in the Student Conduct Code.
What Happens on the Conduct Side?
When the Office of Student Life receives the report, an assistant dean meets with the student to discuss the relevance of the violation to the Student Conduct Code.
After hearing the evidence and investigating further as needed, the assistant dean either hears the case or refers it to a judicial board under the university’s conduct process. According to SCU, the severity of any conduct sanction depends on the circumstances, including the student’s conduct history and any previous academic integrity violations. SCU’s University Discipline Council is made up of students, faculty, and staff who serve as hearing officers.
Can a Student Challenge the Academic Sanction?
Yes. SCU’s Academic Integrity Protocol includes an appeal process for academic sanctions. SCU’s bulletins describe a department chair hearing the appeal, with the option of convening an ad hoc panel if the case is complex, and a process for the student to object to a panel member.
Can an SCU Conduct Decision Be Appealed?
Yes. According to SCU, the outcome of a hearing is subject to one request for appeal, made to the Dean of Students Office. SCU states that the appeal request must be written by the student, and that no one else can write it on the student’s behalf. The appeal officer may also modify sanctions without granting a second hearing.
How Long Does SCU Keep the Record?
According to SCU’s Bulletin, whether or not conduct sanctions are applied, the report of academic dishonesty remains on file in the Office of Student Life for the rest of the student’s enrollment at Santa Clara. SCU’s Student Handbook adds that files for more serious sanctions are kept for a set period after the student leaves. For more on how records can follow students, see does academic misconduct follow you to graduate school.
Common Misconceptions About SCU Cases
“The grade penalty is the whole consequence.” SCU’s Office of Student Life also pursues the violation under the Student Conduct Code.
“If there’s no conduct sanction, there’s no record.” SCU keeps the report on file for the rest of the student’s enrollment either way.
“Someone else can write my appeal.” SCU states that the appeal request must be written by the student.
“A first violation is treated the same as a repeat.” SCU states the conduct sanction depends on the student’s history, including previous violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who handles academic integrity cases at Santa Clara University?
The instructor applies an academic sanction, and the Office of Student Life pursues the violation under the Student Conduct Code.
Does Santa Clara keep a record of academic integrity violations?
Yes. SCU keeps the report on file in the Office of Student Life for the rest of the student’s enrollment, whether or not conduct sanctions are applied.
Can someone else write my Santa Clara conduct appeal?
No. SCU states the appeal request must be written by the student.
Can I get outside help with a Santa Clara academic integrity case?
Yes, behind the scenes. Students can work with an outside advisor to prepare for meetings and hearings, organize their evidence, and prepare to write their own appeal.
Getting Help With a Santa Clara Case
SCU’s academic integrity process is an internal university proceeding, not a court case, and SCU requires students to write their own appeals. Richard Asselta is a student defense attorney who serves as an advisor to students in university academic integrity and disciplinary processes nationwide. He works with Santa Clara students behind the scenes, helping them understand both the academic and conduct tracks, prepare for their meeting with the assistant dean, organize their evidence, and prepare to write their own 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.