At Georgetown University, undergraduate academic integrity cases are handled through the Honor System and its Honor Council. A case begins with an investigation, and it can then be resolved through an expedited sanction or a hearing before a hearing board, with the final decision made by a dean. Georgetown’s Honor System is notable for one rule many students don’t expect: a violation can occur even without intent.
A note on policies: universities revise their handbooks 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 Georgetown’s undergraduate process as the university has published it. Georgetown’s current Honor System policies are the controlling source. Georgetown Law has its own honor system.
How Does a Georgetown Honor Case Begin?
A case begins with a report of a possible violation to the Honor Council, followed by an investigation.
According to Georgetown’s published procedures, an investigating officer looks into the report. After the investigation, the case can be resolved through an expedited sanction or referred to a hearing.
What Is an Expedited Sanction?
An expedited sanction is an option to resolve a case without a hearing by accepting a proposed sanction.
According to Georgetown’s procedures, if a student declines an expedited sanction, the hearing board isn’t told that the offer was made.
What Happens at a Georgetown Hearing?
A hearing board decides whether the student is “in violation” of the Honor System. Georgetown’s procedures describe the board as chaired by a dean and including at least one faculty member and one student.
Under Georgetown’s Honor System, a violation can occur even without intent. Georgetown’s procedures also state that a student’s record of prior violations is reviewed only after a finding of violation, for purposes of setting the sanction.
What Sanctions Can Georgetown Impose?
Georgetown’s sanctions range from a letter of warning or reprimand, to a letter of censure, to a transcript notation, suspension, and dismissal for academic dishonesty. The final decision on a sanction is made by a dean.
According to Georgetown, a letter of censure is placed in the student’s academic record and can be shared outside the university with the student’s consent. Georgetown also describes a process for requesting a reduction of certain sanctions over time.
Can a Georgetown Decision Be Appealed?
Yes, on limited grounds. Georgetown’s procedures describe appeals based on new evidence or a significant procedural violation.
Georgetown also notes that a pending Honor System case can affect when a student receives their diploma. For more on that issue, see can a university withhold a degree or transcripts.
Can a Student Bring Someone to a Georgetown Hearing?
Georgetown’s hearing materials describe a support person who may accompany the student but may not participate beyond a support role.
Common Misconceptions About Georgetown Cases
“I didn’t mean to, so it isn’t a violation.” Under Georgetown’s Honor System, a violation can occur even without intent.
“Turning down the expedited sanction will be held against me.” Georgetown’s procedures state the hearing board isn’t told about a declined offer.
“My past record will decide whether I’m guilty.” Prior violations are reviewed only after a finding, for sanctioning.
“A pending case won’t affect graduation.” Georgetown notes a pending case can affect when a student receives their diploma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who handles honor cases at Georgetown?
The Honor Council, through an investigation and either an expedited sanction or a hearing board.
Can I be found in violation at Georgetown if I didn’t intend to cheat?
Yes. Under Georgetown’s Honor System, a violation can occur even without intent.
What is an expedited sanction at Georgetown?
An option to resolve a case without a hearing by accepting a proposed sanction. If declined, the hearing board isn’t told the offer was made.
Can I get outside help with a Georgetown honor case?
Yes. Georgetown limits what a support person may do at a hearing, but students can work with an outside advisor behind the scenes to prepare their statements, evidence, and presentation.
Getting Help With a Georgetown Honor Case
Georgetown’s Honor System 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. He works with Georgetown students behind the scenes, helping them understand the Honor System, prepare their written statements, organize their evidence, and get ready to present their own case. 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.