Online master’s programs have brought graduate degrees to working professionals, and with them, a heavy reliance on technology to protect exam integrity. Georgia Tech’s online Master of Science in Analytics, for example, says most of its classes use proctored exams through Honorlock, which uses AI to notify instructors of potential violations so they can review video of the flagged moments. For a student balancing a job, a family, and coursework, a flag like that can put far more than one grade at risk.
Program rules vary and change over time. The examples below come from universities’ published policies.
Why Online Programs Generate Misconduct Cases
Online graduate programs depend on remote proctoring, identity verification, and AI tools in ways campus programs often don’t. Georgia Tech’s online programs describe verifying a student’s identity against a government-issued ID or passport, in addition to monitoring proctored exams. Flags from these systems often have innocent explanations, as explained in accused of cheating on Honorlock? and Flagged by ExamSoft?. Identity checks can also lead to one of the most serious charges, covered in accused of taking a test for someone else?, and newer devices like smart glasses are adding new questions.
Online Students Usually Follow the Same Rules as Campus Students
Online master’s students are typically held to the same honor code and conduct rules as students on campus. Georgia Tech’s online programs expect students to comply with the Georgia Tech Academic Honor Code and refer potential misconduct to the university’s Office of Student Integrity, the same office that handles on-campus cases.
Rules That Can Catch Online Students Off Guard
Some program rules matter more for students who are studying part time:
- You may not be able to drop the course. Georgia Tech’s OMSCS orientation guide states that if an academic integrity violation is pending, the student may not drop the course.
- You may not be able to replace the grade. The same guide states that a course isn’t eligible for grade substitution if the student was found responsible for academic misconduct in it, no matter how many times it’s repeated.
- Academic progress rules still apply. Online programs often require satisfactory academic progress, so a failing grade from a misconduct finding can affect a student’s standing in the program.
Why the Stakes Are Higher for Working Professionals
For many online students, the degree is tied to a job, a promotion, or a career change. A finding can affect progress toward the degree, a student’s standing, and later applications. Georgia Tech’s online analytics program, for instance, asks applicants to report their academic misconduct history. For graduate students, the consequences can escalate as far as those discussed in can you fight a graduate school dismissal?
Frequently Asked Questions
Do online master’s programs use proctoring software?
Many do. Georgia Tech’s online analytics program, for example, says most of its classes have proctored exams through Honorlock.
Do online students follow the same academic integrity rules as campus students?
Usually. Georgia Tech’s online students, for example, are expected to comply with the university’s Academic Honor Code.
Can I drop an online course during an academic integrity case?
Not always. Georgia Tech’s OMSCS guide states a student may not drop a course while a violation is pending.
Can I retake an online course to replace a misconduct grade?
At some schools, no. Georgia Tech’s OMSCS guide states a course isn’t eligible for grade substitution after a misconduct finding.
Getting Help in an Online Program
Online graduate students often face these cases while working full time, with less access to campus support. Richard Asselta, a student defense attorney, advises students in academic integrity processes nationwide, including online graduate programs. He helps students understand the program’s rules, organize their evidence, and respond to proctoring and AI-based allegations. Call 855-338-5299 or learn more about Richard Asselta.