At the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), alleged violations of the Code of Academic Integrity are handled by the Center for Community Standards and Accountability, known as CSA, under the Charter of the University Student Disciplinary System. CSA investigates each complaint and charges a student only if it finds clear and convincing evidence of a violation, a higher standard than many universities use. A student who doesn’t agree to the proposed sanctions can have the case heard by a panel that includes faculty and students. Advisors must be members of the Penn community.
A note on policies: universities revise their policies and procedures over time, and Penn’s student conduct office has changed its name and structure over the years. The process that governs any particular case is the one in effect for that case. This article describes the general structure of Penn’s process as the university has published it. The current Code of Academic Integrity and Charter are the controlling sources.
How Does a UPenn Academic Integrity Case Begin?
A case begins with a complaint, which is a request that CSA investigate whether a student violated the Code of Academic Integrity.
According to CSA, when it receives a complaint, it notifies the student and begins an investigation to determine whether the complaint is valid.
What Standard Does Penn Use?
Penn charges a student only if the investigation produces clear and convincing evidence that the student is responsible.
According to CSA, if that standard is met, the student is charged and asked to agree to sanctions appropriate to the conduct. Clear and convincing evidence is a higher standard than the “more likely than not” standard many universities use.
What Happens If a Student Doesn’t Agree to the Sanctions?
The case can go to a hearing. According to Penn, in academic integrity cases, the hearing panel consists of three members of the standing faculty and two student members of the Honor Council or of the Graduate and Professional Student Assembly.
Can a Student Have an Advisor at Penn?
Yes, but the advisor must be a member of the Penn community, meaning a faculty member, staff member, or student. A parent who is a member of the Penn community may serve as an advisor.
According to Penn, at a hearing, an advisor may quietly advise the student and may also make a brief statement at the end of the hearing, before the panel deliberates. Under the Charter, an attorney who isn’t a member of the Penn community generally may not act as an advisor, with narrow exceptions set out in the Charter. Students can still work with an outside attorney to prepare before a hearing.
Which Outcomes Are Reported Outside Penn?
According to CSA, only cases resulting in certain sanctions are reportable: probation, suspension-not-imposed, suspension, expulsion, withdrawal, and delayed diploma.
That distinction can matter later, for example when a student applies to graduate or professional school. For more on that, see does academic misconduct follow you to graduate school.
Common Misconceptions About UPenn Cases
“Penn uses the same standard as other schools.” Penn charges only on clear and convincing evidence, a higher standard than many universities use.
“Any finding will be reported to grad schools.” According to CSA, only certain sanctions, such as probation, suspension, and expulsion, are reportable.
“My advisor can’t say anything at the hearing.” According to Penn, an advisor may quietly advise and may make a brief closing statement.
“I can bring my family’s lawyer.” Under the Charter, outside attorneys generally may not act as advisors, though students can work with one to prepare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who handles academic integrity cases at UPenn?
The Center for Community Standards and Accountability (CSA), under the Charter of the University Student Disciplinary System.
What standard of evidence does Penn use?
Clear and convincing evidence. If CSA’s investigation meets that standard, the student is charged and asked to agree to sanctions.
Who sits on a Penn academic integrity hearing panel?
Three members of the standing faculty and two student members of the Honor Council or the Graduate and Professional Student Assembly.
Can I bring an attorney to a Penn hearing?
Under the Charter, an outside attorney generally may not act as an advisor; advisors must be Penn faculty, staff, or students.
Representation in UPenn Academic Integrity Cases
Every case turns on its specific facts and on the university’s policies as they stand at the time of the case, and policies and procedures can change. Attorney Richard Asselta is a student defense attorney who represents students in academic misconduct cases at colleges and universities nationwide, including the University of Pennsylvania. At schools where outside advisors can’t attend hearings, he helps students prepare their written responses, evidence, and hearing presentations. Call 855-338-5299.