At Tulane University, undergraduate academic integrity cases are governed by the Code of Academic Conduct and reviewed by the Newcomb-Tulane College Honor Board, which is made up of trained students and faculty. A student has the right to have the Honor Board decide the case, and some cases can instead be resolved by accepting a fixed sanction, which closes the case and waives the right to appeal. Tulane requires students to represent themselves: parents, attorneys, and others may not speak on a student’s behalf.
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 Tulane’s undergraduate process as the university has published it. The current Code of Academic Conduct is the controlling source. Tulane’s graduate and professional schools, including Tulane Law School, have their own codes.
Who Handles Tulane Academic Integrity Cases?
The Newcomb-Tulane College Honor Board reviews reports of alleged violations of the Code of Academic Conduct.
According to Tulane, the Dean of Newcomb-Tulane College is the authority of the Code, and the senior associate dean of academic affairs has general oversight of the Honor Board process. Students are contacted once a report is received and an initial review yields charges.
When Is a Tulane Hearing Required?
A student has the right to have the Honor Board decide their case. According to Tulane, a hearing is required if the student has a prior violation of the Code of Academic Conduct or is facing possible suspension for an egregious violation.
At a hearing, both students and instructors are voting members of the hearing panel. If the student is found responsible, the panel recommends sanctions.
What Is the Fixed-Sanction Option?
In some cases, a student can resolve the matter by accepting a fixed sanction instead of having a hearing.
According to Tulane’s published guidance, these sanctions are fixed and can’t be negotiated, and choosing this option closes the case and waives the right to appeal.
Can a Student Have an Advisor at Tulane?
Yes, but Tulane’s advisors are faculty and staff. Tulane can provide a list of Newcomb-Tulane College Honor Board Advisors, who are faculty trained in the process, and students may also consult a staff or faculty member of their choice.
Tulane’s guidance states that students must represent themselves, and that parents, attorneys, and others may not contact the Honor Board or speak on the student’s behalf. Students can still work with an outside attorney to prepare before a hearing.
Can a Tulane Decision Be Appealed?
Yes, if the case went to a hearing. Tulane’s guidance describes three grounds for appeal: procedural error, new evidence, and disproportionate sanctions.
A student who waives a hearing also waives the right to appeal. For more on appeals generally, see appealing an academic misconduct decision.
Common Misconceptions About Tulane Cases
“Accepting the sanction is just the quick option.” Tulane’s guidance states that it closes the case and waives the right to appeal.
“My parents can call the Honor Board for me.” Tulane’s guidance states that parents, attorneys, and others may not contact the Honor Board or speak on the student’s behalf.
“Every case goes to a hearing.” A hearing is required for prior violations or possible suspension; other cases may be resolved differently.
“Only faculty decide my case.” Students and instructors are both voting members of a Tulane hearing panel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who decides academic integrity cases at Tulane?
The Newcomb-Tulane College Honor Board, made up of trained students and faculty.
Can I bring an attorney to a Tulane Honor Board hearing?
No. Tulane’s guidance states that students represent themselves and attorneys may not speak on their behalf, though students can work with one to prepare.
What happens if I accept a fixed sanction at Tulane?
Tulane’s guidance states that the sanction can’t be negotiated, the case closes, and the right to appeal is waived.
On what grounds can I appeal a Tulane Honor Board decision?
Tulane’s guidance lists procedural error, new evidence, and disproportionate sanctions.
Representation in Tulane Honor Board Cases
Every case turns on its specific facts and on the university’s policies as they stand at the time of the case, and codes 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 Tulane. At schools where outside advisors can’t attend hearings, he helps students prepare their written responses, evidence, and hearing presentations. Call 855-338-5299.