Academic Integrity

Maintaining academic integrity is very important to your success as a student at MSU.

MSU is a member of the International Center for Academic Integrity. The Center for Academic Integrity (ICAI) defines academic integrity as “a commitment, even in the face of adversity, to five fundamental values: honesty, trust, fairness, respect, and responsibility. From these values flow principles of behavior that enable academic communities to translate ideals into action.” A publication entitled, “The Fundamental Values of Academic Integrity” published by ICAI gives more detail on the importance of academic integrity.

Academic cheating is defined as representing someone else’s work as your own. Examples include sharing another’s work, purchasing a term paper or test questions in advance, or paying someone to do the work for you. Statistics show that cheating amongst high school students has risen dramatically over the past 50 years.

MSU offers information about academic integrity through the Office of the Ombudsperson. On this website you will also find a list of frequently asked questions about academic integrity for both students and faculty.

Spartan Code of Honor

Student leaders have recognized the challenging task of discouraging plagiarism from the academic community.  The Associated Students of Michigan State University (ASMSU) introduced the Spartan Code of Honor academic pledge, focused on valuing academic integrity and honest work ethics at Michigan State University.  The pledge reads as follows:

"As a Spartan, I will strive to uphold values of the highest ethical standard.  I will practice honesty in my work, foster honesty in my peers, and take pride in knowing that honor is worth more than grades.  I will carry these values beyond my time as a student at Michigan State University, continuing the endeavor to build personal integrity in all that I do."

Visit the Spartan Code of Honor website to take the pledge and learn how to publicly display your commitment to academic honesty with fellow Spartans. 

If you find you are having trouble with your classes, help is available through the MSULearning Resources Center, MSU Writing Center, MSU Counseling Center and MSUTesting Office.