Student Rights and Responsibilities

UWF Honor Code

As Argonauts, we act with integrity. We do not lie, cheat, steal or tolerate those who do.

Student Educational Records

Section 1002.225, Florida Statutes, requires state educational institutions to comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”) codified at 20 U.S.C. s 1232g, and the federal regulations issued pursuant thereto at 34 C.F.R. Part 99. FERPA provides certain rights to university students concerning their student educational records.

Classroom Behavior

University of West Florida faculty members are responsible for establishing and implementing appropriate academic standards as well as reasonable behavior standards for each class. Disruptive classroom conduct, a violation of the UWF Student Code of Conduct, is defined as individual or group conduct of a nature that interrupts or interferes with educational activities, infringes upon the rights and privileges of others, results in the destruction of property or is otherwise prejudicial to the maintenance of order. Violations should be reported to the Dean of Students Office for adjudication through the Student Conduct process.

Use of Instructional Space and Resources

University facilities and equipment are intended primarily for the use of faculty and students enrolled in courses. A student who has completed registration, including the payment of fees, and whose name appears on the final class rolls is authorized to attend classes and to use University instructional space, facilities or equipment. Students may not attend classes or use instructional spaces, facilities or equipment for which they have not paid fees or from which they have withdrawn.

Student Code of Conduct

University students and student organizations are expected to uphold appropriate standards of behavior and to respect the rights and privileges of others. This Student Code of Conduct applies to individual students as well as student organizations. All students and student organizations are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with all federal, state and local laws, and Board of Governors and University regulations and policies. The Student Code of Conduct applies to all UWF campuses, UWF-sponsored programs, including international and exchange programs, and off-campus conduct.

Student Code of Academic Conduct

The University is dedicated to the highest principles and standards of academic integrity. An academic violation by a student can negatively impact a class, program and/or college in ways that are unique to each discipline. Therefore, the University believes that the severity of an academic infraction is best evaluated by the faculty of the institution. The University seeks to offer students an opportunity to respond to allegations of academic misconduct before a decision is rendered. This regulation seeks to provide faculty and students with a fair process for addressing allegations of academic misconduct.

Sexual Harassment and Misconduct

The University is committed to providing an environment that is free of sexual misconduct and sexual violence, gender-based discrimination and retaliation, as those terms are defined in this policy.

Prohibition of Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation

The University is dedicated to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all who interact in our community. In continuing to build and maintain a diverse environment, UWF strives to attract students, faculty and staff from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and life experiences. The University is committed to ensuring that each member of the University community is permitted to work and study in an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based on the following protected classes: age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, race, religion, and veteran status and which is free from prohibited retaliation, as described in this policy.

Prohibition of Hazing

Hazing will not be tolerated at the University and is prohibited in any form, both on campus and off campus. Intentional or reckless hazing that results in a substantial risk of physical injury or death or which results in serious bodily injury or death is a crime in the State of Florida, pursuant to Section 1006.63, Florida Statutes. 

Civil Discourse

The University of West Florida aims to provide a meaningful learning environment that promotes a strong and inclusive marketplace of ideas for all. Therefore, the University supports and encourages civil discourse and free expression through the open and robust exchange of ideas and perspectives, respectful debate, and critical evaluation. Members of the campus community are expected to promote civility and mutual respect and empower and enable one another to speak and listen rather than interfere with or silence the open expression of ideas. The University has adopted the State University System of Florida’s Statement of Free Expression and regulations that align with Florida's Campus Free Expression Act, section 1004.097, Florida Statutes. Resources and guidance regarding the principles of civil discourse and free expression can be found through the Office of Campus Culture and Access website.