What You Need to Know: Academic Misconduct

Academic misconduct is broadly understood to mean offences against the academic integrity of the learning environment.

Examples of Academic Misconduct

1. Misappropriation of others' work.
   • Plagiarism
   • Submission of work completed in part or in whole by someone else
   • Using quotes or ideas without appropriate acknowledgement
   • Using another’s data or research findings
   • Buying or selling term papers or assignments
   • Copying others work or examination answers
   • Unauthorized collaboration when an assignment is to be completed on an individual basis
2. Misrepresentation of personal performance and fraud.
   • Impersonation
   • Use of falsified documents (i.e., medical notes, lab reports)
   • Withholding documents (i.e., transcripts from previously attended institutions)
   • Use of unauthorized aids and assistance
3. Improper access to scholarly resources and obstructing others in pursuit of their academic endeavors.
4. Aiding and abetting others.

Penalties

If found guilty of academic misconduct, a student could have one or more of the following penalties levelled against them:

• A requirement for submission of a new or alternative piece of work.
• The rescinding of University‐funded scholarships or bursaries.
• Partial or total loss of marks on the examination or assignment in which the offence occurred.
• Partial or total loss of marks for the course in which the offence occurred.
• Suspension from the University for a period of between one and six consecutive semesters.
• A recommendation for expulsion from the University.
• A recommendation for revocation/rescinding of a degree.

For further information, please reference the University of Guelph-Humber Academic Calendar.