Student Conduct
Frequently Asked Questions
As the Code of Conduct states, “Students accused of a crime may be prosecuted under the appropriate jurisdiction and also disciplined under the Student Code of Conduct. The University may pursue disciplinary action even if criminal justice authorities choose not to prosecute, and it may also act independently of the criminal judicial process.” This is not double jeopardy because these are two separate bodies with separate jurisdiction.
University jurisdiction and discipline extends to conduct which occurs on University premises, at a University sponsored event, or dealing with conduct which adversely affects the University community and/or the pursuit of its mission. Specifically, University officials may initiate disciplinary charges for conduct off campus when the behavior relates to the good name of the University, the integrity of the educational process, or the safety and welfare of the University community, either in its public personality or in respect to individuals within it.
If you accept responsibility for an alleged violation, the Determination Letter will contain all of the pertinent information you will need to complete any possible sanctions. This would include names of individuals you may need to contact, descriptions of assignments you may be required to complete, and deadlines by which sanctions would need to be completed.
When a student elects to go through a Formal Hearing, the determination of whether a student is found “responsible” or “not responsible” for a violation of the Student Code of Conduct will be made by the University Conduct Board or the Administrative Officer. If a student is held responsible, the sanctions may be similar to the sanctions proposed in the original Determination letter or they could be increased or decreased. Proposed sanctions are based on the judgment of the judicial officer(s) based on the report of the alleged violation, the account of the charged student, reports of witnesses or others involved in the case, and any prior disciplinary history.
No, but you may have an attorney present if you choose for them to serve as an advisor. The advisor may speak with the charged student but may not speak for the charged student, act as attorney, or otherwise participate.
If you have witnesses that have relevant information then you are encouraged to have them provide written statements or to be present at the hearing process. However, it is not necessary to bring character witnesses because as a student of the University of South Florida your character is not in question, only the alleged behavior. Witnesses appearing on your behalf will NOT be summoned for you. It is YOUR responsibility to make sure your witnesses are present and on time. They will be allowed to make their statements at the appropriate time and then be dismissed.
The charged student may appeal in writing the decision of the University Conduct Board or Administrative Officer within five calendar days of the decision to the Dean for Students. The decision of the Dean for Students is the final decision of the University of South Florida.
Please review the listed rights found in the Student Code of Conduct and on this web site under the link titled “Student Code of Conduct”.
The provision of proof shall be the duty of the complainant. The standard of proof the University uses in order to determine if a violation of policy shall be “substantial evidence,” that is, whether it is reasonable to conclude from the evidence submitted that the student did commit the violation(s) for which he or she has been charged, and shall not be the strict criminal law standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
If this is the case, then you should have nothing to worry about. Just come in and tell the truth.
Any student, registered organization, or a person who has submitted an application for admission, housing, or any other service provided by the University which requires student status will be subject to the Student Code of Conduct for any action found in violation of the Code which occurs on University property, at University-sponsored events, or off campus if the action adversely affects the University community and/or the pursuit of the University’s mission.
Students failing to fulfill sanctions will have holds placed on their records, which will prevent them from obtaining transcripts, registering, or withdrawing from classes.
Disciplinary actions do not appear on academic transcripts. However, if a student is suspended for a period of time, during that period a notation will appear on on the academic transcript noting that the student is suspended due to conduct issues. Once the suspension period is over, the notation is removed.
The Office of Student Conduct maintains all campus judicial records in accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Student Judicial Services will not comment on the identities of parties involved in the student judicial process. This confidentiality extends to all Student Judicial Services staff, including the University Judicial Board. In cases involving alleged violent or injurious behavior, the Office of Student Conduct will inform the complainant, whenever appropriate, of the outcome of the judicial proceeding.
Students may choose to sign a release form granting Office of Student Conduct permission to discuss any and all information related to their disciplinary file with any individual that they designate. This form is available from the Office of Student Conduct.
Additionally, any educational institution or agency requesting a disciplinary check on a current or former University of South Florida student must be done in writing. This must include the signature of the student granting release of any information related to disciplinary records.
The University of South Florida is committed to the success of its students both inside and outside of the classroom. Therefore, it is our goal to maximize students’ learning and development, and promote their health, safety and welfare. In this regard, USF has implemented a Parental Notification Policy in compliance with the request of the Florida Board of Education. The Parental Notification Policy permits the University to inform parents or guardians when their dependent student, under the age of 21, has been found in violation of the University’s alcohol and substance abuse policy.
Students whose parents are to be notified under these guidelines will be informed before such notification occurs and given an opportunity to initiate contact with their parents.
In non-emergency situations, parents of dependent students, under the age of 21, will be notified in writing. However, in emergency situations, parents may be notified by an immediate telephone call from the Director of the Office of Student Conduct or the Dean of Students.
These guidelines do not preclude parental notification for other policy violations that may endanger the health, safety and well being of a student or other individuals in the University community. In addition, parental notification may occur in health and safety emergencies regardless of the student’s age or dependent status.
The Students of Concern Assistance Team (SOCAT) offers guidance, resources, and referrals to USF St. Petersburg students who are experiencing a distressing situation which significantly impacts upon their academic or personal success. The focus is to offer supportive intervention and guidance to any USF St. Petersburg student who is struggling.
The Office of Student Conduct works to provide safety and well being of the University environment, aid in the growth and development of a student as related to a student’s behavior, and to serve as the management agency for the University Conduct System. This is a disciplinary process that is initiated when a student violates the Student Code of Conduct.
It is not permitted to record initial hearings or meetings.
NOTE: For official language and procedures governing student behavior, please consult the Student Code of Conduct. Any questions concerning the University Student Conduct Process should be directed to the Office of Student Conduct. Ph: 727-873-5027.