8.05 / Student Code of Conduct

Effective: October 03, 2017Revised: September 10, 2019

  1. Initiating Authority

    The Associate Dean of Students serves as the primary conduct administrator, as designated by the Vice President of Student Affairs. In this capacity, the Associate Dean of Students is responsible for the development and implementation of policies and procedures for the administration of the Student Code of Conduct. The Associate Dean of Students is responsible for notifying the University community of substantial changes to this policy.

  2. Person/Groups involved in Review

    1. This policy shall be reviewed a minimum of every three years under the direction of the Associate Dean of Students.

    2. Other parties that will review the Student Code of Conduct may include:

      1. Student Conduct and Community Standards office staff

      2. Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance staff

      3. Associate Vice President for Student Affairs & Dean of Students

      4. Vice President for Student Affairs

      5. Office of General Counsel staff

  3. Purpose Statement

    The Student Code of Conduct outlines University behavior expectations for students, student groups, and student organizations. This policy aligns with Wichita State University’s institutional values and helps the University meet its legal obligations.

  4. Policy Statement

    By choosing to become a member of the University community, students are expected to demonstrate respect for themselves and others and to conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with the Kansas Board of Regents’ and Wichita State University rules and policies; federal, state, and local laws; and city ordinances. When choosing to become a part of the University community, the student must consider whether they will be able to adhere to the Student Code of Conduct Handbook. Being a member of the Wichita State University community is a privilege, and the student conduct process will determine if a student’s conduct warrants that they should no longer share in that privilege.

    This policy applies to behavior conducted online, via e-mail or through other electronic mediums. Wichita State University does not regularly search for this information but may take action if such information is brought to the attention of University officials.

    It is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct for any student, student group, or student organization to engage in behavior that aids, attempts, assists, promotes, condones, encourages, requires, conceals, or facilitates any act prohibited by the Student of Conduct Handbook. Allowing, permitting, or providing an opportunity for a visitor to violate University policy is also prohibited. Lack of familiarity with University policy, intoxication or impairment from alcohol, drugs, or other substances, or an individual’s disability is not an excuse or a defense to a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. Unless specifically noted in the policy definition, intent is not a required element to establish a policy violation

    A full listing of all University prohibited conduct, student conduct procedures, and outcomes can be found in the Student Code of Conduct Handbook.

  5. Definitions

    For the purpose of this policy only*, the following definitions shall apply:

    1. Member of the University Community – any student, faculty, staff member, or other person employed by the University or its affiliates or an individual who is participating in a University-sponsored program or activity.

    2. Student – any individual who has been notified of admission to the University; is enrolled in, auditing, or participating in any University course or program; or has a continuing relationship with the University. An individual is considered a student until they notify the University they are no longer a student or the University informs them that they are no longer a student. An individual who has been suspended is still considered a student during the suspension period. Students who leave the University before a conduct complaint is resolved may be prohibited from future enrollment and/or accessing University records until the matter is resolved.

    3. Student Code of Conduct Handbook – refers to the all policies and procedures related to student behavior and expectations.

    4. Student Group – any number of persons who are associated with the University and each other, but who have not registered, or are not required to register, as a student organization that conducts business or participates in University-related activities. Student groups include, but are not limited to, Student Government Association, Student Activities Council, musical or theatrical ensembles, sport clubs, the University newspaper, or intercollegiate or independent varsity athletic teams.

    5. Student Organization – any student-led organization that has been approved and is recognized by the Student Government Association.

    6. University – Wichita State University (WSU) and its affiliates.

    7. University Policy – any written guidelines of the University or the Kansas Board of Regents as found in, but not limited to, the Kansas Board of Regents Policy Manual, WSU Policies and Procedures Manual, Housing and Residence Life Handbook, ICAA Manual, Graduate/Undergraduate Catalogs, Student Organization & Advisor Handbook, Library Facilities Policy, Traffic Regulations, and/or Intramural Sports Handbook.

    *A broader listing of definitions can be found in the Student Code of Conduct Handbook

  6. Administrative Procedures

    A full listing of the Student Code of Conduct administrative procedures can be found in the Student Code of Conduct Handbook.

  7. Related Policies

    The Policy and Procedures Manual at Wichita State University, all other University policies, and any Federal and State Laws apply under the Student Code of Conduct.  More details on specific Policies, Procedures, and Laws that apply to the Student Code of Conduct can be found in the Student Code of Conduct Handbook.