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The Student Discipline Process

As authorized by the Board of Regents of The University of Texas System, the Office of the Dean of Students is responsible for the administration of student discipline, which is implemented by Student Judicial Services (SJS).

SJS routinely receives reports of alleged violations of University rules from campus offices (e.g., University of Texas Police Department, Division of Housing & Food Service, Parking & Transportation Services, Information Technology Services, etc.) as well as individual faculty members and students. In response to such a report, SJS generally schedules a meeting with the student to discuss the suspected violation(s).

Potential Outcomes

After meeting with the student and, if warranted, investigating the matter further, SJS staff:

  • may determine that no further action is necessary and/or dismiss the allegation(s) as unsubstantiated; or
  • may, based on the evidence, find the student responsible for violating University rules, and then offer an Administrative Disposition, which the student can either accept and waive the right to a hearing, or decline and choose to dispute the allegation(s) at a hearing.
    • With an administrative resolution, the student accepts a sanction deemed appropriate by SJS, knowing beforehand what sanction will be assessed. The student does, however, retain the right to appeal the sanction to the President within the designated time period.
    • If the matter is resolved through a hearing, an SJS staff member presents evidence and witnesses on behalf of the University, and the student can also present evidence and witnesses on behalf of himself/herself. A hearing officer appointed by the President presides over the proceeding, determines if the evidence supports a finding of violation and, if so, assesses a sanction. The student and/or the Dean of Students may appeal the hearing officer's decision to the President within the designated time period.
    • Assessed sanctions vary with the circumstances, including the nature of the violation(s). Sanctions can include, but are not limited to: written warning, disciplinary probation, alcohol/other drug education programs, suspended privileges, restitution, community service, counseling, grade-related sanctions (only in cases of scholastic dishonesty), bar against readmission, deferred suspension, and/or suspension or expulsion.

Note: This overview is not the official statement on University policies regarding the discipline process. For the official policies, please see Chapter 11 of the Institutional Rules on Student Services and Activities (PDF).

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