At American University in Washington, D.C., the Office of Academic Integrity manages the adjudication of all Academic Integrity Code cases. After an instructor reports a concern, the student meets with an Academic Integrity Coordinator and can have the case reviewed by an Academic Code Review Panel or go directly to the Assistant Director for a recommendation. A dean then makes the final decision. Under AU’s policy, that decision is final, except that sanctions requiring a change to the student’s transcript can be appealed to the Provost’s office.
A note on policies: universities revise their codes 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 American University’s process as the university has published it. The current Academic Integrity Code is the controlling source.
How Does an American University Case Begin?
An instructor reports an academic integrity concern to the Office of Academic Integrity, which manages the adjudication process for all cases.
According to AU, the student is then invited to talk with an Academic Integrity Coordinator. The goal of that meeting is for the student to offer their account, be heard, and understand the process.
What Are the Paths Through the Process?
AU’s process offers two routes to a recommendation. The case can go to a hearing before an Academic Code Review Panel, or the student can choose to go directly to the Assistant Director, who examines the materials and provides a recommendation.
Either way, the Assistant Dean receives the recommendation, reviews the case, and makes a final decision.
What Happens at an Academic Code Review Panel Hearing?
According to AU’s policy, panel decisions about the hearing process are made by majority vote. At the end of the hearing, the panel meets in closed session to decide its findings and recommended sanctions, which go to the dean. The dean may affirm, modify, or reject the panel’s recommendation.
What Sanctions Can American University Impose?
AU’s Academic Integrity Code lists possible outcomes that include suspension for one or more academic terms with a notation on the transcript, dismissal from the university for a specified term or permanently with a transcript notation, and other sanctions as appropriate, such as a lower course grade.
Can an American University Decision Be Appealed?
Only in certain cases. AU’s policy states that the dean’s decision is final and may not be appealed unless the sanctions include a change to the student’s transcript. In that case, the student may appeal to the Provost’s office within the deadline AU sets. For more on what a transcript notation can mean, see does academic misconduct show up on your transcript.
Common Misconceptions About American University Cases
“Every decision can be appealed.” AU’s policy states the dean’s decision is final unless the sanctions include a transcript change.
“A panel decides my case.” The panel recommends; the dean may affirm, modify, or reject the recommendation.
“There’s only one way through the process.” AU allows a panel hearing or a direct review by the Assistant Director.
“Suspension won’t show up anywhere.” AU’s Code lists suspension and dismissal with a notation on the transcript.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who handles academic integrity cases at American University?
The Office of Academic Integrity, which manages the adjudication process for all cases.
What is the Academic Code Review Panel?
A panel that hears cases and recommends findings and sanctions to the dean, who makes the final decision.
Can I appeal an American University academic integrity decision?
Only if the sanctions include a change to the transcript, in which case the student may appeal to the Provost’s office.
Can I get outside help with an American University academic integrity case?
Yes. Students can work with an outside advisor behind the scenes to prepare their account, evidence, and any appeal.
Getting Help With an American University Case
AU’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. He works with American University students behind the scenes, helping them understand the Academic Integrity Code, prepare their account and written 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.