Message to Students: Academic Integrity at NC State

Greetings Wolfpack,

We hope this letter finds you well, and that you had a safe and relaxing winter break. As we look ahead to the new year and the spring semester, we want to remind you about the importance of academic integrity at NC State.

During the COVID-19 pandemic and mass shift to online classes, there has been an alarming increase in academic violations involving cheating and plagiarism. Here are examples we have seen from the past semester:

• Inappropriate use of online services like Chegg and Course Hero to answer test questions. 
• During virtual proctored exams, students have been caught opening separate tabs on their device or glancing away from the screen to consult handwritten notes. 

While remote learning conditions and ever-evolving technology make it easy to cheat, it’s also easier to get caught. Faculty members are becoming increasingly aware of such behaviors and are taking many steps to promote academic integrity. 

Remember, no matter how minor or harmless they might seem, these violations are a serious matter and cheapen the value of your college education. We understand that this is a challenging time and that many of you did not choose to complete your degree online. However, we hold every student accountable, just as any future employer will hold you accountable for your work. 

If you are found committing academic violations, you will face:

• A review from the Office of Student Conduct
• Potential suspension from the university
• Potential expulsion from the university

This spring, many classes will continue to be held in online or hybrid formats, and we will continue to monitor and enforce all types of academic violations. We ask that you continue to conduct yourself with integrity regardless of your classroom setting and that you discourage cheating and plagiarism among your peers as well. We are all in this together and will get through these challenging times as a Pack. 

If you are having trouble in a particular course or with adjusting to online classes in general, we recommend the following resources:

• Taking Online Exams: Proactive Guide for Preventing Misconduct
• The Division of Academic and Student Affairs’ Keep Learning website
• The Academic Success Center offers virtual tutoring, career counseling and academic advising services

If you are struggling emotionally or financially outside of the classroom due to the effects of COVID-19, these NC State resources can help:

• Pack Essentials: Resources to address food, housing and financial insecurity
• Feed the Pack Food Pantry

• The Counseling Center and Prevention Services
• The Wellness and Recreation Center offers individual and group fitness opportunities as well as helpful resources for balancing your work and personal life

Learn more about the importance of academic integrity on the Office of Student Conduct website, and stay tuned for more information about Academic Integrity Week in February.