Code of Student Conduct

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Code of Student Conduct

The University’s Code of Student Conduct (“The Code”) is the University's policy regarding non-academic discipline of students and student organizations. Academic dishonesty is not covered by this Code but rather falls within the authority of the individual academic units of the University. Students have the responsibility to follow all regulations outlined in this policy.

The primary purpose for the Code in the university setting is to respond to incidents of non-academic misconduct in a way that is developmentally sound and which creates an environment in which all members of the academic community can live, work, and learn together. The Code is designed to provide educational guidance to those choosing to develop into good citizens and, at the same time, to respond appropriately to behavior which may be inconsistent with university policies.

Criminal and civil codes are undesirable models for student conduct codes. Unlike society, the University of Louisville is a voluntary association of scholars who demand and deserve a positive and special learning environment, as well as an approach for enforcing the community's standards. The University of Louisville is a community dedicated to the principles of free expression in which diverse views are encouraged and embraced. Opinions that may be unpopular and/or contrary to the University's values and objectives, but do not otherwise violate policy, will not result in sanctions from the University.

The University's Code of Student Conduct is set forth in writing in order to give students general notice of non-academic prohibited conduct. The Code should be read broadly and is not designed to define non-academic misconduct in exhaustive terms. The Vice President for Student Affairs (VPSA) or designee is the final authority in defining and interpreting the Code of Student Conduct and conduct procedures. The University reserves the right to amend the Code of Student Conduct at any time.

The Code can be found at at the Dean of Students website or by contacting the Dean of Students Office in SAC W301 or by phone at (502) 852-5787.

Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities

The Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities is set forth in writing to provide students with general notice of their rights and responsibilities at the University of Louisville. Further rights and responsibilities are set forth in other University rules and policies, including the Code of Student Conduct, Student Handbook, Residence Hall contracts, graduate and undergraduate catalogs, and academic unit websites. It is the students' responsibility to be aware of all University rules and policies; students should check with the Dean of Students Office and with their academic units if they have any questions about the purposes or intent of these policies.

The Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities is located on the Dean of Students website.

Student Handbook

Other policies and information for students can be found in the online Student Handbook

Student Advocacy and Support

The Student Advocate helps students navigate educational, personal, and other campus obstacles that impact successful completion of their academic goals. The Student Advocate links students with appropriate University and community resources and follows through to assist with student concerns while collaborating with faculty and staff in the best interest of the students.

At times, students may experience a variety of issues that impact their ability to be academically successful, such as illness, death of an immediate family member, accident, critical issues such as sexual assault, harassment, domestic violence, or other emergency situations. The Student Advocate works with students and their families to resolve issues by identifying options and strategies and offering information and guidance. During difficult times, students should be empowered with the resources to make informed decisions and take a proactive role in the problem resolution process.

The Student Advocate is located in the Dean of Students Office, SAC W301. For assistance, please contact the Student Advocate at advocate@louisville.edu or call (502) 852-5787 to schedule an appointment.

Student Grievance Officer

Students who have complaints, grievances, or concerns regarding courses taken at the University of Louisville or other University policies or services should contact the Student Grievance Officer to have the issues resolved in an expeditious, fair, and amicable manner. Students should first seek to resolve their complaints through informal discussion and administrative channels. The same resources are provided to on-campus and off-campus students. 

The Student Grievance Officer is responsible for informing students of their rights and obligations under the University's Student Grievance Procedures. The Student Grievance Officer will seek to resolve informally as many grievances as possible. For assistance, please contact Dr. Joy Hart at joy.hart@louisville.edu.