44 Academic Misconduct Defined (MTSU Policy 312.III.B)
The professor reports allegations of academic misconduct to the English Graduate Program Director and to the Director of Academic Integrity, CAB 111, (615) 898-2533, as described in University Policy 312.IV Academic Misconduct Process. The professor should inform the student of the allegation and notify the student that the information has been forwarded to the Director of Academic Integrity’s office. The professor may conduct a conference with the student in compliance with the following procedures:
- The student will be provided notice that he or she is believed to have committed an act or acts of academic misconduct in violation of University rules.
- The student will be presented with all evidence in the knowledge or possession of the professor that tends to support the allegation(s) of academic misconduct.
- The student will have an opportunity to present information on his or her behalf.
Based upon university policy regarding academic misconduct, the professor will not assign an appropriate grade until a determination has been made. A referred student may not drop the class until a determination is made and should continue attending the class. The referral information, along with all supporting documentation of the violation, will be forwarded to the Director of Academic Integrity’s office.
In the event a student believes he or she has been erroneously accused of academic misconduct the student will have the opportunity to communicate this concern to the Director of Academic Integrity by denying responsibility. In such a case, the Director of Academic Integrity will send the case to a hearing by the Academic Integrity Committee, who will consider the evidence and testimony before making a final determination.
If the student is found responsible for the allegation(s) of academic misconduct, the grade proposed by the professor will stand. Should the student be absolved of the allegations of academic misconduct by the Academic Integrity Committee, the faculty member will reassess the student’s grade based on the committee’s finding.
If the student withdraws from the university, and is ultimately found responsible for academic misconduct, the student will receive the grade proposed by the professor.
