The University of Rhode Island is committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment. The Office of Community Standards partners with students, families, and faculty to uphold the values of responsibility, accountability, and care for others.
Whether you are navigating the conduct process, seeking guidance as a parent, or reporting a concern, we are here to help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and the resources available to support your success.
The student conduct process is designed to be educational, fair, and restorative. Students involved in cases will:
- Receive clear information about their rights and responsibilities.
- Have the opportunity to participate in meetings or hearings to share their perspective.
- Have the opportunity to work with trained advisors.
- Learn how to appeal or complete assigned sanctions.
How the Student Conduct Process Differs from the Criminal Justice System
The University of Rhode Island’s student conduct process is distinct from criminal court proceedings. While a student may be involved in both systems at the same time, the conduct process serves a different purpose and follows different procedures.
- Educational, not adversarial: A conduct hearing is not a trial. It is designed to be supportive, non-adversarial, and educational. The focus is on helping students understand the impact of their choices and encouraging accountability, not on punishment.
- Standard of evidence: Unlike the criminal justice system’s standard of “beyond a reasonable doubt,” URI uses a “preponderance of the evidence” standard. This means that a student will be found responsible if it is more likely than not that a violation occurred. Legal rules of evidence do not apply; hearing officers may consider all relevant information.
- Confidentiality: Student conduct records are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). They are not public records, unlike criminal cases. A conduct finding will not result in a criminal record.
- Independent outcomes: Criminal court findings of “guilty” or “not guilty” do not determine the outcome of the student conduct process. The two systems operate separately.
- Individualized sanctions: Sanctions are not automatic. They are determined by the circumstances of each case, the impact of the behavior, and any prior history. The emphasis is on education, accountability, and repairing harm when possible.
Overall, the URI student conduct process is less formal than criminal proceedings and is designed to support student growth while maintaining community standards.
Parts adapted from the ASCA (formerly ASJA) publication, THE STUDENT CONDUCT PROCESS: A GUIDE FOR PARENTS, copyright 2006.
Policies That Guide Us
Our community flourishes when it is built on respect, accountability, and care. These policies protect the health, safety, and well-being of all Rams:
| Policy | Description |
|---|---|
| Academic Misconduct | Honesty in all academic work is essential. Cheating, plagiarism, and falsifying records violate university standards and harm the learning community. |
| Alcohol and Other Drugs Misuse | Illegal or unsafe use of alcohol and drugs is prohibited. We encourage responsible choices and connect students to resources for support. |
| Harassment & Discrimination | Every student deserves an environment free of harassment, discrimination, or bias. Respect for others’ identities and experiences is a core expectation. |
| Hazing | Hazing of any kind is not tolerated. All students should be able to join organizations in a safe, respectful, and inclusive way. |
| Sexual Misconduct & Title IX | The University prohibits sexual harassment, assault, and related misconduct. Title IX ensures all members of our community are protected and supported. |
| Technology Use | University technology and systems must be used responsibly. Misuse, hacking, or inappropriate online behavior may result in conduct action. |
| General Conduct Standards | Violence, threats, theft, vandalism, or disruptive behavior violate community standards. Our goal is to promote accountability and repair harm when it occurs. |
Review the Student Handbook for complete details on all community standards and policies.
How Can We Help You Today?
Being part of the conduct process can feel confusing or stressful. Front office staff are not able to discuss alleged incidents. Below is a guide to take you through each step and help make the process clear, fair, and educational.
Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities
As a URI student, you have both rights and responsibilities in the conduct process.
- Your rights include knowing the charges, presenting your perspective, bringing an advisor, and appealing certain decisions.
- Your responsibilities include being honest, respectful, and completing any sanctions if they are assigned.
For full details, review the Student Rights and Responsibilities section of the Student Handbook.
What to Expect
An Overview of the steps involved in a student conduct case.
1. Notification
You’ll receive a letter or email letting you know if you’re involved in a case. It will explain the alleged violation and invite you to a meeting.
Note: Front office staff are not able to discuss alleged incidents with students. As the letter indicates, the alleged incident will be discussed during your scheduled meeting with the conduct official.
2. Meeting or Hearing
- Conduct Meeting (Informal): You’ll talk with a staff member about the situation and possible outcomes.
- Administrative Hearing: You’ll meet with one or two hearing officers to share your side and hear the evidence.
- Conduct Board Hearing: For more serious cases, a panel of students, staff, and faculty will review the case.
3. Decision & Sanctions
If you’re found responsible, you may receive sanctions. These are not just penalties; they are meant to be educational and restorative.
Advisors and Support
You don’t have to go through this process alone. You may choose to bring a trained conduct advisor or another support person with you. A conduct advisor may be a student, faculty, or staff member at the University who has been trained on the University Student Conduct System. Parents or guardians do not serve as a conduct advisor, even if they are employees of the University. Training on the Student Handbook and student conduct procedures is strongly recommended for an individual serving as a conduct advisor.
Advisors can:
- Help you prepare for your meeting or hearing.
- Be present during proceedings.
- Offer guidance after a decision is made.
Advisors cannot:
- Take an active part during meetings or hearings.
- Present any part of the information for the involved parties.
- Ask any questions of any witnesses, the Administrative Hearing Officer, or Hearing Panel, or respond on behalf of the student.
See our list of Conduct Advisors or learn how to request one. You may even choose to have an attorney serve as your conduct advisor.
Sanctions: Learning and Moving Forward
Sanctions are designed to help you reflect, repair harm, and stay connected to your academic goals. They may include:
- Educational workshops or reflection papers
- Community service or restorative practices
- Counseling, health, or educational referrals
- Fines or loss of certain privileges (in more serious cases)
You’ll receive clear instructions on how to complete your sanctions and where to submit any required documentation.
Appeals
If you believe a decision was not fair or new information comes to light, you may have the option to appeal. Appeals must be submitted within the timeline outlined in your outcome letter.
Learn more about the Appeals Process.
Resources & Support
We want you to be successful during and after this process. You may find it helpful to connect with:
- Counseling Center – Emotional support and coping strategies
- Health Services – Alcohol and substance use education
- Dean of Students Office – Academic and personal support referrals
- Conduct Advisors – Peer or staff advisors trained to support you
Answers to questions we frequently see from students and their families.
Sometimes things happen in our community that don’t reflect our values or the expectations of the Student Conduct Code. If you experience, witness, or become aware of an incident, you can share it with us.
When Should I Report?
You can submit a report if you:
- … were involved in or witnessed an incident that may break the Student Conduct Code
- … have information about hazing, harassment, discrimination, or other concerning behavior
- … are worried about the wellbeing or safety of a fellow student
If you’re not sure, submit anyway. Our staff will guide the next steps. You are not expected to manage the situation on your own; that’s our responsibility.
Need Immediate Help?
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
For urgent but non-emergency support, contact URI Police or the Dean of Students Office.
Types of Reports
Academic Integrity
Reports about coursework, such as:
- Cheating on exams or assignments
- Plagiarism (using someone else’s work without credit)
- Unauthorized collaboration
- Fabricating information or citations
Usually submitted by faculty, but students can also report too.
Behavioral Misconduct
Reports about actions that disrupt community standards or safety, such as:
- Harassment or bullying
- Alcohol or drug misuse
- Disorderly or threatening behavior
- Property damage
- Ignoring university policies
Hazing
Actions that put students at risk of harm as a condition of joining or participating in a group:
- Forced alcohol use
- Dangerous physical activities
- Humiliation or degrading tasks
Hazing is banned at URI and under Rhode Island law.
Discrimination & Harassment
Conduct based on identity, such as:
- Biased comments or slurs
- Unwelcome jokes or behavior
- Hostile treatment in class, residence halls, or activities
Safety & Wellbeing Concerns
When you’re worried about someone’s health, safety, or behavior:
- A student showing signs of mental health struggles
- A friend who may be in crisis
- Disruptive or concerning behavior
These reports connect students to help, not punishment.
Other Concerns
If what you’ve experienced doesn’t fit neatly into a category, that’s okay. Submit the report, and we’ll make sure it gets where it needs to go.
What Happens After I Report?
- Every submission is read carefully.
- We may reach out to you or others for more information.
- The situation may lead to a meeting, an educational conversation, or a formal conduct process.
- Students involved will be connected with resources such as counseling, health services, or academic help.
An Overview of the steps involved in a student conduct case.
How to Submit
- Online Form – Submit details anytime through our secure form.
- In Person – Visit the Office of Community Standards / Student Conduct.
- Not Sure? – Contact us directly at studentconduct-group@uri.edu with your questions.
We take privacy seriously. Since some reports require follow-up, we only share information with those directly responsible for resolving the matter.
When someone you care about is involved in the conduct process, it can feel confusing or stressful. This page is here to help you understand what’s happening, what you can (and can’t) know, and how you can best support your student.
Because of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the University cannot share case details without the student’s written consent. What you can do is encourage your student to share information with you directly.
FERPA and Privacy
- Student conduct records are protected under federal law.
- We can only speak directly with the student about their case.
- Students can choose to sign a release that allows us to talk with a supporter.
- Even without a release, we can always share general information, including:
- explaining how the conduct process works,
- describing possible outcomes and timelines,
- providing information on campus resources, and/or
- suggesting ways to support your student through the process.
Will this affect their future?
Most conduct cases are educational and developmental. Records are generally internal to URI unless there’s a serious violation (such as suspension or expulsion).
Guide for Families & Caregivers
When your student is involved in a conduct case, it can be hard to know how best to help. The following guidance is intended to support you and your student through the process in a way that respects both the student’s autonomy and the University’s educational goals.
An Overview of the steps involved in a student conduct case.
Expect limited disclosure, without a signed release
Because of student privacy protections under FERPA, the University cannot share detailed information about your student’s case unless the student signs a release. You may ask general questions about the process, timelines, and what types of outcomes are possible, but case-specific details will remain confidential unless the student permits their release.
For procedural details about parental notification, appeals, and access, please see the “For Families section of the FAQs“.
Listen and let your student lead the conversation
Your role is one of guidance and support. Encourage open dialogue. Start by listening without judgment, giving your student space to explain what happened, how they feel, and what they understand so far. Ask thoughtful, open-ended questions (“What do you think the next steps might be?” “How can we work together on this?”) rather than leaping to protect or solve the situation.
Encourage responsibility and reflection
One of the goals of URI’s conduct process is educational growth. Encourage your student to take responsibility where appropriate, consider what they’ve learned, and think through ways to repair harm or make better decisions in the future. Your calm support can strengthen their willingness to engage honestly with the process
Respect deadlines and process requirements
Your student will receive notices, meeting invitations, outcome letters, and other essential communications via their URI email address. It’s important they check their email regularly and respond in a timely manner. Missing deadlines or failing to attend scheduled meetings may limit their ability to present information or contest charges.
Help with logistics, not advocacy
You can help your student by helping them keep track of paperwork, helping them practice what they want to say, or reminding them of deadlines. But you should avoid intervening directly in the process (for example, contacting the Office of Community Standards on their behalf, unless permitted in narrow circumstances). The student is expected to represent themselves, and hearings are built to allow students to express their own voice.
Be prepared for different outcomes and consequences
Sanctions are not pre-set; they may range from educational assignments and reflection exercises to probation, housing restriction, suspension, or expulsion, depending on the nature of the violation and any prior record. The outcome offers a learning opportunity, even when serious. If the student is found responsible, the outcome letter will provide the next steps, timeline, and appeal rights, if applicable.
Consider your role after the decision
Once the decision is final, your support remains important. Encourage your student to complete sanctions promptly, reflect on lessons learned, and re-engage positively with their academic and campus community. Help them focus on recovery and growth, rather than shame or blame.
Reach out with questions
If you want to understand the conduct process more deeply, you’re welcome to contact the Office of Community Standards. While we cannot discuss case specifics without the student’s permission, we can help clarify general policies, timeline expectations, and resources.
Find answers to many commonly asked questions.
As a faculty or staff member at the University of Rhode Island, you play a critical role in maintaining a safe, respectful, and supportive campus. Below is a guide to:
- Supporting students who may be involved in a conduct case
- Determining whether a situation may involve a violation of the Student Code of Conduct
- Referring or reporting concerns to the appropriate offices
Supporting Students Involved in a Case
When a student is involved in a conduct case, a faculty or staff member can act as a conduct advisor to help students navigate the process with confidence and understanding.
- Listen and validate: Allow them to share their perspective without judgment.
- Explain what to expect: Walk them through meetings, hearings, and possible outcomes as described in the Handbook.
- Help them prepare: Assist in organizing statements, gathering evidence (like emails, photos, or witnesses), and rehearsing what they might say — especially for hearings.
- Encourage use of resources: Guide them toward counseling, academic support, or disability services as needed.
- Emphasize choice and responsibility: Remind them that participation, honesty, and meeting deadlines matter.
Recognizing When to File a Report
Sometimes you may witness behavior or learn information that could involve a potential violation. You do not need to determine guilt. Your role is to submit factual reports so the Office of Community Standards can review or investigate and determine next steps.
Situations You Should Report
- Academic Integrity Violations: cheating, plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, falsifying records
- Behavioral Misconduct: harassment, threatening conduct, vandalism, disorderly behavior
- Hazing: forced or harmful initiation practices
- Discrimination or Harassment: bias-based behavior targeting a protected status
- Safety or Wellbeing Concerns: signs of serious distress, self-harm, or risk to others
How to Determine What Type of Report
- Gather the facts — who, what, when, where, any evidence
- Map to Handbook categories — use the conduct and academic integrity sections in the 2025 Handbook as a guide
- Submit the report via the Report It page
- Consult the Office of Community Standards if uncertain
The Student Handbook describes these conduct categories and procedures, and should be your first reference when classifying a concern.
What Happens After a Report
An Overview of the steps involved in a student conduct case.
Once a report is submitted:
- The office reviews and determines jurisdiction.
- Either an educational meeting, informal resolution, or formal conduct process is initiated, depending on severity.
- If a formal case, the student is notified, a hearing or meeting is scheduled, and they are informed of their rights and responsibilities as outlined in the Handbook.
- Students found responsible may receive sanctions, which they must complete, per the Handbook’s guidelines.
- Students may appeal decisions under the criteria described in the Handbook.
Throughout, faculty and staff may be asked to provide factual evidence (e.g., course records, emails) or respond to inquiries about student performance or behavior.
Confidentiality, FERPA, and Privacy
- Conduct records are protected, and disclosure to third parties (including parents or guardians) is limited unless the student consents or specific legal exceptions apply.
- Faculty/staff should avoid informal discussion of conduct matters outside official channels.
- If a student signs a release, limited information may be shared, but always refer back to the Handbook’s rules and institutional policy.
Classroom Conduct & Preventive Teaching Practices
While not always a formal “conduct” role, faculty/staff can proactively reduce violations:
- Include an academic integrity statement in your syllabus (as recommended in 2025 syllabus memos)
- Clarify expectations for collaboration, citations, and use of AI or external sources
- Monitor assessments and use varied formats to reduce cheating opportunities
- Address disruptive behavior by setting clear norms, intervening early, and referring students to support rather than punitive escalation
If you need further assistance or have specific questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Office of Community Standards.
Office of Community Standards
University of Rhode Island
Phone: 401/874.2101
Email: studentconduct-group@uri.edu
If this is an emergency, call 911.