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Code of Student Conduct
This Q&A will help you familiarize yourself with Western University’s Code of Student Conduct.
As one of the top Universities in Canada, Western has established high academic and behavioural standards and any compromise of these standards can be detrimental to both the individual and the University. As a student at Western University, you are a member of our community and you have the right and the responsibility to uphold our communal values. We must work together to promote a safe environment. By reading this Q&A, you can become a more informed member of our community and ensure that Western is a safe and just space for all people.
Affiliated Colleges
Please note, off-campus conduct for students registered at the affiliated Colleges is covered under the respective conduct processes at each College. Contacts for conduct-related questions at each affiliate can be found below.
Huron
- Off-Campus conduct for students registered at Huron University College is covered by the Huron Student Code of Conduct. Reports involving Huron students will be forwarded to safety@huron.uwo.ca.
King's
- Off-campus conduct for students registered at King's is covered by the King's Student Code of Responsibilities and Conduct. Reports involving King's students will be forwarded to the Dean of Students, Joe Henry at joe.henry@kings.uwo.ca.
Q&A
The Code of Student Conduct (the “Code”) is a document which outlines the behavioural expectations for all students and the process for handling violations of the Code when they arise. The Code applies to instances of non-academic misconduct. The Code is complemented by other policies, including the Policy on Gender-Based and Sexual Violence, and the Non-Discrimination/Harassment Policy/Sexual Misconduct Policy.
The Code applies to student conduct that occurs: on the premises of the University or its Affiliated University Colleges; during or in connection with a University-affiliated Program, Activity of Event (including online); and online or off-campus at sponsored events. In certain instances, the Code may apply more broadly to any conduct that might reasonably be seen to have an adverse effect on, interfere with, or threaten the proper functioning of the University, its mission, or the rights of its members.
Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to: Disruption or Interferences; Misconduct Against Persons and Dangerous Activity; Misconduct Involving Property; Misrepresentation or False Information; Alcohol and Drug Use; Improper Use of Dangerous Objects and Substances; Contravention of University Regulations and Other Laws; Aiding in the Commission of a Prohibited Act or Attempting to Commit a Prohibited Act; and Failure to Comply.
Additional examples of Prohibited Student Conduct can be found at Part E of the Code.
Complaints filed under the Code are received by the Office of the Vice-Provost (Students) in Student Experience at Western. You can submit a written formal complaint through the online reporting form.
The student who is accused of misconduct will be informed in writing of the nature of the complaint, and will be given reasonable opportunity to respond and tell their side of the story. When appropriate, the University encourages informal resolution of minor incidents. If the student is found to have violated the Code, appropriate sanctions will be imposed.
In certain circumstances, the student may appeal a finding of misconduct to the University Discipline Appeal Committee.
A Student under Investigation may be represented by legal counsel, at their own expense. At all meetings with the Vice-Provost (Students), or designate, the Student under Investigation may be accompanied by a support person of their choosing (e.g. friend, family member, colleague, etc.).
The University values the principles of restorative justice, and wherever possible, emphasis is placed on educational sanctions. Educational sanctions can include apologies, service to the University or wider community, and completion of a class or workshop. Disciplinary sanctions may also be imposed. Students may be placed on disciplinary probation, required to pay restitution, trespassed from campus, suspended, or expelled for violations of the Code.
In considering an appropriate sanction, the University’s primary focus is to ensure the safety and security of the University, its members and visitors. The University imposes sanctions that are proportionate to the type of misconduct. Sanctions may range in severity from warnings to expulsion. Instances of misconduct are assessed on a case-by-case basis and take into account the unique circumstances surrounding the incident. Where possible and appropriate, the Vice-Provost shall consider educational sanctions in addition to or instead of other sanctions. Such sanctions are designed to help a Student under Investigation understand why their behaviour was inappropriate and to appreciate the impact of that behaviour on others.
Decisions are kept on file in the Office of Vice-Provost (Students). The decision letter will be shared with Faculties or other administrative units (e.g. Office of the Registrar and Western Special Constable Service) on a need-to-know basis.
Certain severe sanctions (e.g. suspension, expulsion) will be noted on the student’s academic record. The suspension notation is removed from a student’s transcript when the student graduates or five years after the last registration. The expulsion notation is permanent unless the President grants a petition for its removal; a student can petition the President no sooner than five years after the offence.
Western Special Constable Service
Lawson Hall, Room 1257
Tel: 519-661-3300
police@uwo.ca
Gender-Based Violence & Survivor Support
Student Support & Case Management
Thames Hall, Office Suite 3114-3127
Tel: 519-661-3568
support@uwo.ca
Faculty of Law, Room 120
Tel: 519-661-3352
Western Student Services Building, Room 3135, Third Floor
Tel: 519-661-3573
ombuds@uwo.ca
Human Rights Office
Somerville House, Room 2319
Tel: 519-661-3334
humanrights@uwo.ca