As a community of scholars dedicated to learning and the pursuit of knowledge, UNC Asheville relies on the honesty and academic integrity of all the members of its community. Any act of plagiarism, cheating, or use of unauthorized materials or assistance is academic dishonesty. A person who knowingly assists another in academic dishonesty is likewise guilty of dishonesty. According to the instructor’s view of the gravity of the offense and the instructor’s syllabus policy, a student may be punished by a failing grade or a grade of zero for the assignment or test, or a failing grade in the course. The faculty member may also require that the student complete additional sanctions, such as the completion of an online course on plagiarism or resubmission of the original assignment.
In all situations where a student has been disciplined for academic dishonesty, the instructor must submit a brief statement of the case to the University Registrar with a copy to the student. The Registrar maintains records of academic dishonesty incidents and notifies the instructor when a student is found to have multiple offenses. Depending upon the severity and/or repetition of the offense, the Registrar and/or instructor may recommend that the Provost impose an additional penalty, such as cancellation of graduation with honors, cancellation of scholarships, or dismissal from the university. If the Provost decides that additional penalties are warranted, the student will be notified in writing.
If a student feels that he or she has been unjustly accused of academic dishonesty, the student has ten (10) class days from the date of the instructor’s written notification to the student to respond in writing. This response is to be sent to both the instructor and the University Registrar. The instructor should then meet with the student to discuss the charges within five (5) class days. If needed, the student may then contact the Registrar for assistance in identifying options for possible resolution. If needed, the Faculty Conciliator will be contacted to mediate and/or convene the Academic Appeals Board.