College Codes of Conduct
Did you know that at the University of South Carolina, students are expected to take a pledge, the “Carolinian Creed”? This is a social honor code that guides their personal, academic and professional life.
While your school might not have a traditional “creed,” it does, however, have a set of standards by which it holds students responsible. A school’s code of conduct is usually published in the student handbook, which many schools now make available online in PDF format.
A code of conduct guides behavior in order to achieve a harmonious campus community so that all members can pursue and enjoy their academic rights and freedoms. Codes of conduct typically address personal behavior, permissible and non-permissible items and activities, and grievance procedures should you feel your freedoms are being interfered with. From drug use to weapons to allowable cell phone use, codes are designed to spell out the school’s policies. Included in the code will be sections on academic integrity or academic honesty, with penalties for violations.
It might seem obvious to you that “making nice” is expected behavior in the learning environment, but unfortunately, some students have the attitude that “I pay your salary so I can say what I want.” So it’s very much your business to read and familiarize yourself with the code of conduct. You’ll read explanations of your rights – such as the right to quiet study – and the procedures and penalties when standards are violated. Just remember that “I didn’t know” is not an acceptable excuse for stepping over boundaries!
What do new students need to be most aware of?
- Drug and alcohol policies
- Permitted and disallowed items – Electronics and appliances
- Pet policies
- Curfews – On campus and residence halls
- Noise policies
- Aggressive behavior – Physical and verbal
- Food – Presence in classrooms, preparation in residence halls
- Safety and security – Theft, including identity theft; vandalism; violation of federal and local laws
- Sexual misconduct or harassment
- Race, religion, gender, or ethnicity-based aggression or humiliation
- Behavioral standards in learning environments – Attendance, offensive language
- Hazing
- Academic honesty – Cheating on exams, plagiarizing papers and reports