Western Governors University is an accredited online university known for its unique competency-based learning model. The institution, as a whole, focuses on measuring skills and having students master material rather than merely having them advance at the end of the semester. With this commitment to quality education in mind, Western Governors University expects students to uphold their standards of academic conduct. Those who are charged with violations and/or fail to meet ethical guidelines go through specific procedures led by the Student Conduct Board. Repercussions can range from failed coursework to expulsion from the university.
This article will review Western Governors University's academic integrity policies and detail how the university handles allegations. You decided to attend Western Governors University because you believe there's a promising future out there for you. Don't let academic integrity violations prevent your dreams from becoming your reality. If you find yourself in a situation involving student conduct code hearings, continue reading to learn how a student defense attorney can help.
What Does Western Governors University Say About Academic Integrity?
As part of Western Governors University students' rights and responsibilities, there is not only a code of student conduct, but they also have academic authenticity policies. With their commitment to ethical completion of all coursework, Western Governors University takes proscribed conduct very seriously. Here's a breakdown of some key violations and expectations:
Cheating and Plagiarism
Students must complete their own coursework; otherwise, to use another person's work without appropriately formatted citation is plagiarism. They may not create, use, or share any information that may include course assessment materials or responses to those materials. Unauthorized collaborative efforts are forbidden, and students may not access any device or material that is not specifically approved in advance.
Identity Misrepresentation and Furnishing False Information
Students must appropriately and adequately attribute material, such as text, images, and data, used in their coursework to the creators of such material. Students may not falsify or deliberately misrepresent information.
Forgery, Alteration, or Misuse
Students may not copy, record, or disclose WGU assessment or project material to anyone else. They are not to misuse any document, record, or instrument that belongs to Western Governors University.
Western Governors University's Student Conduct Code Procedure
Charges against a student for violations of the student code are taken seriously at Western Governors University. The Student Conduct Board reviews all charges that are submitted in writing, and a private board hearing may be set, which is also recorded.
The complainant, the accused student, and their advisors, if any, are allowed to attend the hearing. All parties are responsible for presenting his/her own information, and advisors are not permitted to speak or to participate directly in any hearing. Once all information is presented, the Student Conduct Board determines by consensus whether the accused student has violated each section of the Student Code which the student is charged with violating.
Sanctions
Depending on your history of misconduct and the severity of the conduct violation allegation, the board may impose any number of sanctions, such as:
- Written warnings at various levels
- Loss of specified privileges
- Work assignments or service
- Disciplinary suspension
- Removal from the academic program
- Disciplinary expulsion
- Revocation of grades as part of the student's Academic Record
- Revocation of admission and/or degree
- Withholding the awarding of a degree
Appealing Board Decisions
After a Board hearing decision is made available, Western Governors University students have five business days to file an appeal. They must submit the appeal in writing to the Student Conduct Administrator. An appeal is limited to a review of the verbatim record of the hearing and supporting documents for the following purposes:
- To determine whether the hearing was conducted fairly and in conformity with prescribed procedures
- To determine whether the decision reached was based on substantial information
- To consider any new information that is enough to change a decision or other relevant facts not presented in the original hearing
Why Use an Attorney as Your Advisor?
You might think you can handle your institution's disciplinary proceedings yourself. Although academic misconduct is not illegal, it can certainly have serious consequences, and Western Governors University understands that.
For this reason, the Student Conduct Board allows students to bring an advisor to disciplinary hearings. Although the advisor cannot participate in the hearing with you, they can provide guidance that is crucial to your success and the best possible outcome.
Attorneys can review the school's code of conduct, gather pertinent information, help you prepare opening and closing statements, and coach you on answering questions and presenting yourself well. An experienced attorney can also identify any procedural errors, disproportionate sanctions, and other factors that may impact your case.
Western Governors University Academic Integrity Attorney
If you face academic dishonesty charges at Western Governors University, you need to know what you're up against. Whether you have recently been accused of an academic offense or are currently in the appeal process to overturn an unfavorable decision, being prepared is crucial. Even a first-time violation could lead to significant sanctions that could threaten your entire future, from your academic standing to your career trajectory. You didn't enroll in a college degree program just to have it all taken away. With so much at stake, don't delay taking steps in protecting your reputation. Accusations of academic misconduct can be life-altering. Fortunately, the Lento Law Firm has unmatched experience in advising college students facing stressful hearings like yours. They can assist you in evaluating the accusations and ensuring a fair proceeding to protect your rights. Attorney Joseph D. Lento has worked to defend the rights of thousands of students across the nation. He knows how to craft the strongest defense because he understands your future is on the line. His many years of experience and successful track record will help you prepare to refute the charges and get the best result in your academic integrity case. Contact the Lento Law Firm today by phone at 888-535-3686 to schedule a consultation
