New Academic Standards Code brings clarity and uniformity to academic expectations

Artificial intelligence (AI) and evolving technologies are rapidly reshaping the landscape of higher education and conversations around academic integrity. George Mason University has taken a significant step forward with the launch of a new Academic Standards Code, replacing the long-standing Honor Code with a standards-based approach. In addition, a new centralized Academic Standards Office will implement and uphold the policies through a clearer and more consistent  framework for academic expectations. 

“We want to ensure a culture of academic honesty with clearly aligned standards, processes, and policies at George Mason,” said Janette Muir, vice provost of academic affairs. “We’ve worked hard to ensure these changes reflect the needs of our community and provide greater clarity and effectiveness.” 

The Academic Standards Code introduces a streamlined set of values—honesty, acknowledgement, and uniqueness of work that reflect the university’s academic culture. The code aims to create a shared understanding and more clarity in processes for both students and faculty, while addressing common and new concerns around fairness, and transparency. 

In addition to the new code, faculty will have access to university-provided resources to guide appropriate use of generative AI and other technologies within their courses. Students will find clearer expectations regarding academic integrity in todays’ digital learning environment. 
The university is also introducing a new sanctions matrix to bring transparency to the process of addressing academic violations. The matrix offers an objective decision-making framework to ensure fairness and equity across all schools and colleges.  

“We wanted to create a system that still promotes learning and excellence while holding students accountable,” said LaShonda Anthony, director for the Office of Academic Standards, now located under Academic Affairs in the Office of the Provost. “The new matrix helps align understanding and expectations between students and faculty.” 

Both students and faculty will serve on adjudication panels to hear and decide on matters related to violations of academic standards to help uphold academic values and support fairness and clarity in the process. To be considered for a panel, faculty, staff, and students should submit an application online.   

The new Academic Standards Office will serve as the central hub for reporting, training and support, and educational outreach for faculty and student guidance and processes for academic excellence. A new standing university committee with cross-campus representation has also been formed to ensure the policy remains responsive, flexible, and relevant in the years ahead. 

Training modules on the new Academic Standards Code are now available for both students and faculty. As the fall semester begins, the Office of Academic Standards encourages students and faculty to complete this training to ensure depth in understanding and consistency in application. Students will have access to the training through Canvas, and faculty members through the MasonLEAPS training platform. 

More details are available at academicstandards.gmu.edu.