Student Conduct
Conduct Process
The USF St. Petersburg Office of Student Conduct (OSC) facilitates an unbiased, fair, consistent, and timely process that fosters the highest standards of behavior, student learning, and responsibility while promoting an educational environment that respects the rights of all students. While emphasizing respect, trust, and integrity, we strive to educate students through the conduct process and help promote accountability and empathy within the campus community.
INITIAL REVIEW MEETING
Upon receipt of the referral, OSC will hold a meeting with the charged student and any applicable witnesses. The function of this process is to determine whether relevant evidence exists and if there is a reasonable basis for believing the code of conduct was violated based on a preponderance of the evidence.
DECISION LETTER
After the initial review, the conduct officer will issue a decision letter to the charged student. This letter will indicate if the charges have been dismissed or accepted. The student will be provided 5 class days to decide whether they wish to admit responsibility and agree to the imposition of any sanctions detailed in the letter or exercise their student right to have a formal hearing.
ACCEPTANCE OF CHARGE(S)
If the charged student elects to accept the charge indicated in the decision letter, the decision will become the official record. If no response is received, the decision will become the official record.
ELECT TO HAVE A FORMAL HEARING
- The charged student elects to have a formal hearing.
- Administrative Hearing – One full-time university staff or faculty member.
University Conduct Board – A panel composed of faculty, staff and students.
APPEAL
The Dean of Students will review any appeal based on concerns with due process, sanctions or new information that was not available at the time of the hearing.