Student Code of Standards

A University is a learning community following a tradition more than 1,000 years old. Florida International University is a community dedicated to generating and imparting knowledge through excellent teaching and research, the rigorous and respectful exchange of ideas, and community service. As a member of this community:

• I will respect the tradition of academic inquiry, the University’s rules of conduct, and its mission.
• I will respect the opinions and differences of all members of the FIU community.
• I will practice civility and demonstrate conduct that reflects the values of the institution.
• I will respect the rights and property of the University and its members.
• I will be diligent and honest in my personal and academic endeavors.

(1) Standards of Student Conduct

The State University System of Florida has been charged with the responsibility of providing students an educational experience, which prepares them to participate in a rapidly changing world, and to do so with a commitment to the highest moral and ethical standards. To achieve this end, Florida International University has outlined a set of desired values and attitudes considered to be the foundation of intellectual and moral integrity in our future societal leaders. Florida International University has prepared this statement to outline behaviors expected of students in the campus environment. It is anticipated that this conduct will be carried forth in their lives beyond the University.

The University Standards of Student Conduct address three major areas of moral integrity. They include academic honesty, respect for the law, and respect for people. The first two are more readily established because they relate to written rules, regulations, and laws, which are stated in the Student Code of Conduct. Failure to comply results in appropriate sanctions. The last, respect for people, is more intangible in nature, and yet of the most importance because it governs one’s response to the first two.

In meeting one of the major objectives of higher education, which is to develop self-reliance, it is expected that students will be responsible for the completion of their own academic work. The use of literature, notes, aids, or assistance from other sources should be clearly identified with respect to all course assignments and examinations. In addition, students are expected to use all resources, including books, journals, and computers only in legal and authorized ways. They should also refrain from falsification of records, attend class as required, and participate in the educational process without disrupting the orderly processes and functions of the University.

Students are expected to respect and obey all regulations of the University and all state and federal laws. If regulations or laws are considered to be unfair or improper, it is expected that students will use appropriate, established, and lawful procedures to effect change. Of particular importance is adherence to laws regarding theft, destruction of property, physical assault, sexual abuse, and alcohol and drug abuse.

Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner which exemplifies respect for people of all races, religions, and ethnic groups, and to adhere to one’s personal values without unduly imposing them on others. Respect for one’s own mind and body, including refraining from substance abuse, is essential. In interpersonal relationships, students are expected to respect the rights of others, particularly their right to refuse to participate in any activity. At no time should students harass, assault, or violate the privacy of other persons. Students should also conduct themselves in ways to protect themselves and others from contagious diseases. Students should take responsibility to serve as leaders in promoting compassion for others and challenging prejudice against all individuals and groups whether due to race, gender, age, marital status, religion, nationality, political persuasion, sexual orientation, disability, or infection with disease.

1. Personal integrity that is rooted in respect for truth and love of learning.
2. A sense of duty to self, family, and the larger community.
   
3. Self-esteem rooted in the quest for the achievement of one’s potential.
   
4. Respect for the rights of all persons regardless of their race, religion, nationality, sex, age, sexual orientation, physical condition or mental state.
   
5. The courage to express one’s convictions and recognition of the rights of others to hold and express differing views.
   
6. The capacity to make discriminating judgments among competing opinions.
   
7. A sense of, and commitment to, justice, rectitude, and fair play.
   
8. Understanding, sympathy, concern, and compassion for others.
   
9. A sense of discipline and pride in one’s work; respect for the achievements of others.
   
10. Respect for one’s property and the property of others, including public property.
    
11. An understanding of, and appreciation for, other cultures and traditions.
    
12. A willingness to perform the obligations of citizenship, including the right to vote and the obligation to cast an informed ballot, jury service, participation in government, and the rule of law.
    
13. Civility, including congenial relations between men and women.
    
14. A commitment to academic freedom as a safeguard essential to the purpose of the University and to the welfare of those who work within it.
    
15. The courage to oppose the use of substances, which impair one’s judgment or one’s health.