At Tufts University, faculty in the School of Arts and Sciences and the School of Engineering are required to report suspected academic integrity violations to the Dean of Students Office, and cases are resolved through the Student Conduct Resolution Procedure. Students may bring an advisor to meetings and the hearing, though the advisor can’t participate, and appeals go to the Committee on Student Life, a standing committee of faculty and students.
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 Tufts’ process for Arts and Sciences and Engineering as the university has published it. The current Student Conduct Resolution Procedure is the controlling source. Tufts’ graduate and professional schools have their own procedures.
How Does a Tufts Case Begin?
Faculty members are required to report suspected academic integrity violations to the Dean of Students Office, according to Tufts.
Staff in the Dean of Students Office then work with the faculty member to look into the situation and, if appropriate, contact the student. Academic integrity violations are resolved through the Student Conduct Resolution Procedure for Arts and Sciences and Engineering.
What Sanctions Can Tufts Impose?
Sanctions depend on the case. Tufts’ academic integrity guidance states, for example, that if it’s demonstrable that unauthorized materials were used during an exam, the student will be found responsible, and sanctions may include probation, suspension, or expulsion.
Can a Student Have an Advisor at Tufts?
Yes. Under Tufts’ Student Conduct Resolution Procedure, advisors may attend the initial meeting, the hearing, and other meetings with the student, but they may not participate or speak to the hearing panel, sanctioning panel, or conduct officer.
A student who plans to bring an advisor to a hearing must give the chair advance written notice of the advisor’s identity, including whether the advisor has any legal training.
Can a Tufts Decision Be Appealed?
Yes. The appellate body is the Committee on Student Life, a standing committee that includes faculty members, students elected by the student body, and a representative of the Graduate Student Council.
According to Tufts, appeals based on a denial of fair process are sent back for a new administrative decision, hearing, or sanctioning hearing. For more on appeals generally, see appealing an academic misconduct decision.
Common Misconceptions About Tufts Cases
“My professor can handle it privately.” Tufts requires faculty to report suspected violations to the Dean of Students Office.
“My advisor can speak for me.” Tufts’ procedure states advisors may attend but not participate or speak to the panel.
“Using notes on an exam is a minor issue.” Tufts’ guidance states sanctions for demonstrable use of unauthorized exam materials may include probation, suspension, or expulsion.
“An appeal means the same people review it.” Appeals go to the Committee on Student Life, and fair-process appeals are sent back for a new decision or hearing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who handles academic integrity cases at Tufts?
The Dean of Students Office, through the Student Conduct Resolution Procedure for Arts and Sciences and Engineering.
Can I bring an advisor to a Tufts hearing?
Yes. Advisors may attend meetings and the hearing but may not participate or speak to the panel.
Who hears appeals at Tufts?
The Committee on Student Life, a standing committee of faculty and students.
Can I get outside help with a Tufts academic integrity case?
Yes. Tufts allows an advisor to attend meetings and the hearing without participating, and students can also work with an outside advisor to prepare their statements, evidence, and any appeal.
Getting Help With a Tufts Academic Integrity Case
Tufts’ Student Conduct Resolution Procedure 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 Tufts, where the procedure allows students to bring an advisor to meetings and hearings. He helps students understand the process, prepare their statements, 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.