What is the Duke Community Standard?

The Duke Community Standard (DCS) reflects the University’s shared commitment to scholarship, leadership, service, and the principles of honesty, fairness, respect, accountability, and care. At Duke, the community is central to the understanding of honor and integrity. Being part of the Duke community means recognizing the value and well-being of others, reflecting on how individual actions affect the broader campus environment, and contributing to a culture grounded in openness, civility, and mutual respect. These principles extend beyond the classroom and apply to all academic and nonacademic endeavors, both on and off campus. 

Students affirm this commitment through the DCS pledge: 
  • I will not lie, cheat, or steal in my academic endeavors. 
  • I will conduct myself honorably in all my endeavors. 
  • I will act if the Standard is compromised. 

The DCS exists to create the best possible environment for learning by balancing individual rights and responsibilities with the shared expectations necessary to sustain an exceptional campus community. As members of this University community, students are expected not only to uphold their own integrity, but also to take constructive action when they witness behavior inconsistent with the DCS or University policies. 

The DCS embodies the University’s core values and commitment to academic and behavioral expectations. Since behavior stems from these values, the DCS standard applies on and off campus. Its principles guide students’ decisions in all environments, including classrooms, residence halls, K-Ville, off-campus housing, and any other locations students visit. The DCS encourages students to reflect on their behavior and to uphold the integrity of their peers. Through mutual inspiration and support, students contribute to an environment that embodies the ideals of the DCS. The DCS articulates the institution's broad educational objectives and serves as the foundation of undergraduate life at Duke. Students demonstrate their commitment to the community by signing the DCS pledge. 

Although inaction does not result in disciplinary consequences, students are encouraged to respond in ways that correspond to their abilities and confidence. Recommended actions include speaking directly with those involved, addressing concerns in a public forum, notifying University staff or faculty, or seeking guidance and support from the Office of Student Conduct & Community Standards (OSCCS). These expectations acknowledge that each student contributes to Duke’s culture of integrity. Membership in the Duke community requires purposeful, civil, and intentional conduct, fostering an environment where ideas are exchanged and challenged respectfully; learning is prioritized, and all individuals are treated with dignity. Students are expected to review and adhere to the DCS throughout their tenure at Duke. The OSCCS may revise these standards as necessary.