The Student Code of Conduct (Code) supports MBKU’s Vision, Mission and Core Values through educating the community on expectations and responsibilities related to student behavior. The academic environment should foster conditions that are conducive to the full pursuit of knowledge and learning. Therefore, MBKU has established guidelines for the adjudication of individuals accused of violating University or Program codes, rules, regulations and/or policies. In addition, MBKU has established the Code to ensure the protection of student and University expectations, the health and safety of the University community, to foster the personal and professional development of students, and to support the efficient operation of MBKU programs. The overall goal of the Code is to maximize student success and minimize negative impacts on individuals and the community. This Code sets forth the applicable standards of our community and authorizes the administration of student conduct at MBKU.

Upon acceptance of admission to an MBKU Program, each student subscribes to and pledges complete observance of the standards of conduct outlined in the University Student Handbook, University Catalog, and the respective Program Student Handbook. In the case a Program policy is in direct conflict with a University policy, the University policy governs.

Structure

This Chapter consists of nine sections and numerous sub-sections beginning with definitions of applicable terms, how the University creates, maintains, and disposes of conduct records, and descriptions of types of behaviors. The Chapter describes the expectations, responsibilities, and required behaviors of students, guests, and the community. In addition, this chapter outlines both the Program and University Conduct Processes and concludes with information related to Title IX of the Education Code.

Guiding Philosophy

As a health care university, MBKU is committed to educating and developing professionals with the highest ethical principles, professional standards, and understanding of legal responsibilities to achieve positive patient outcomes. To this end, the Code is guided by the philosophy that all students adhere to the Code, and if a potential violation of the Code occurs, they can learn from the situation to mitigate future potential consequences.

Purpose

The Code is our commitment to upholding the ethical, professional, and legal standards we use as the basis for our daily and long-term decisions and actions. We all must be aware of and comply with the relevant policies, standards, laws, and regulations that guide our education, work, and practice. We are each accountable for our actions and, are collectively accountable for upholding these standards of behavior and for compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies.

Being a member of the MBKU community is a privilege. This privilege comes with the responsibility to act in accordance with all institutional rules and policies. This Code provides information on behavioral expectations and outlines the process used to address violations of these expectations.

Process

All members of the MBKU community are responsible for holding themselves and others accountable for the standards of behavior outlined in the Code. If any member of the MBKU community believes a potential violation of the Code has occurred, it is their duty to report it to the appropriate University Official. Though every incident involving potential violations of the Code will vary, the general process is consistent, and details are listed in the Student Conduct Process.

The effectiveness of the MBKU student conduct process is contingent upon the commitment of those involved to maintain a nurturing academic and social environment while affording an individual student’s maximum personal freedom within University guidelines. These processes are designed to not only hear alleged incidents of student misconduct, but also to be a learning experience for those involved. If students are found responsible for misconduct, it is an opportunity to educate and affect change in future behaviors. However, when students fail to meet University standards, they ultimately risk separation from the University community. MBKU’s system of progressive sanctioning principles is designed to effect positive behavioral changes for the betterment of students as well as the entire MBKU community.