Statement on Academic Conduct and Support Systems
Academic Conduct
Plagiarism — presenting someone else’s ideas as your own, either verbatim or recast in your own words — is a serious academic offense with serious consequences. Please familiarize yourself with the discussion of plagiarism in SCampus in Section 11, Behavior Violating University Standards and Appropriate Sanctions. Other forms of academic dishonesty are equally unacceptable. See additional information in SCampus and university policies on research and scholarship misconduct.
Discrimination, sexual assault, and harassment are not tolerated by the university. You are encouraged to report any incidents to the Office for Equity, Equal Opportunity, and Title IX, or to the Department of Public Safety. This is important for the safety of the whole USC community. Another member of the university community — such as a friend, classmate, advisor, or faculty member — can help initiate the report, or can initiate the report on behalf of another person. Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention and Services provides 24/7 confidential support, and the Office for Equity, Equal Opportunity, and Title IX website describes reporting options and other resources.
Support Systems
A number of USC’s schools provide support for students who need help with scholarly writing. Check with your advisor or program staff to find out more. Students whose primary language is not English should check with the American Language Institute, which sponsors courses and workshops specifically for international graduate students. The Office of Student Accessibility Services provides certification for students with disabilities and helps arrange the relevant accommodations. If an officially declared emergency makes travel to campus infeasible, USC Emergency Information will provide safety and other updates, including ways in which instruction will be continued by means of blackboard, teleconferencing, and other technology.