Student Responsibility to Duke University's Policies

Each student at Duke University is required as a condition of enrollment to comply with the Duke Community Standard. The University expects students and student organizations to be familiar with the Duke Community Standard. Any claim of unawareness to any of the policies will not be a valid excuse for violation of any policy. All students and student organizations are expected to adhere to any of the policies contained in the Duke Community Standard.  The standards are listed in alphabetical order without a priority assigned. 

Unique Circumstances for Services and Programs

In the event of a public health emergency or other circumstances beyond the University’s control—including but not limited to epidemics, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, utility failures, or labor disruptions—the University may interrupt, modify, or temporarily suspend some or all services and programs. In these situations, the University may, at its sole discretion, provide substitute services, suspend operations, and/or issue appropriate refunds. Students and student organizations are expected to comply with all University notices and guidelines implemented to mitigate risk during these events. 

Academic Dishonesty 

Academic honesty is at the heart of University education. Respect for other ideas and intellectual property is expected of all Duke Students. Because of its central role in the University, Students may not drop, change course grading to S/U or withdraw from the course once a report of alleged academic dishonesty has been submitted and/or resolved. 

Academic Violations

Absent a clear statement from a course instructor expressly granting permission, the use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to complete an assignment, exam or other academic assignment is prohibited. The unauthorized use of AI shall be treated similarly to cheating or unauthorized assistance and/or plagiarism. 

Cheating is the act of wrongfully using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, study aids, or the ideas or work of another. 

Cheating includes, but is not limited to the possession of, use, or consultation of: 

  • unauthorized materials, information, study aids or the ideas or work of another to gain an unfair advantage; 
  • unauthorized equipment or devices on tests, quizzes, assignments, or examinations; 
  • unauthorized assistance/shared resources including, but not limited to, test banks, solutions materials 
  • failing to adhere to a course instructor’s specific directions, including but not limited to a course syllabus and with respect to the terms of academic integrity or academic honesty. 
  • submitting an altered examination or assignment to an instructor for re-grading; 
  • altering or falsifying any information on tests, quizzes, assignments, or examinations; 
  • using any material portion of a paper or project to fulfill the requirements of more than one course unless the student has received prior faculty permission to do so; 
  • working on any examination, test, quiz, or assignment outside of the time constraints imposed; 
  • the unauthorized use of prescription medication to enhance academic performance; 
  • plagiarism (defined further below) on any assignment; 

Plagiarism occurs when a student, with intent to deceive or with disregard for proper scholarly procedures, presents any information, ideas, or phrasing of another as if they were the student’s own and/or does not give appropriate credit to the original source. Proper scholarly procedures require that all quoted material be identified by quotation marks or indentation on the page, and the source of information and ideas, if from another, must be identified and be attributed to that source. Students are responsible for learning proper scholarly procedures. 

Plagiarism may include: 

  • copying from published sources without adequate documentation ([1] use of quotation marks around verbatim text, or a block quote if verbatim text exceeds 40-50 words; and [2] in-text references or footnotes, both for verbatim text and paraphrased words/ideas); 
  • citing an incorrect source for attributed work; 
  • paraphrasing words or ideas of another without giving credit; 
  • using the same logic/flow/sentence structure of another without giving credit; 
  • unauthorized use of artificial intelligence software in any course submission, without proper citation or prior approval (spelling and grammar checkers are permissible unless stated otherwise by course instructor); 
  • submitting as your own someone else’s unpublished work, either with or without permission; 
  • paying someone else to write a paper for you; 
  • or, purchasing a pre-written paper. 

The term assignment includes any work, required or volunteered, submitted for review, academic credit, and/or disciplinary outcome. 

All academic work undertaken by a student must be completed independently unless the faculty member or other responsible authority expressly authorizes collaboration with another. 

Lying refers to the communication of false, deceptive, or misleading information, or participation in any form of dishonest misrepresentation of facts, with the intent to gain an advantage, evade responsibility, obtain a benefit, or inflict harm upon a member of the university community. 

Examples of lying include, but are not limited to:

  • falsifying information on applications, résumés, references, or social media profiles (such as LinkedIn); 
  • misrepresenting research, credentials, or qualifications; 
  • providing false or misleading information to secure exceptions, accommodations, or excuses from classes, assignments, or university requirements; 
  • intentionally underperforming on placement or assessment examinations; 
  • making false allegations; 
  • and providing inaccurate information during university investigations or proceedings. 

Stealing is the act of intentionally taking or appropriating the property of another, including academic work, without consent or permission and with the intent to keep or use the property without the permission of the owner or the rightful possessor. 

Freedom of inquiry and the free exchange of ideas are essential for the fulfillment of the University’s mission. 

Academic freedom is a right and responsibility for students as well as faculty. Students who believe that their academic freedom has been abridged should submit a written complaint to their academic dean. The dean may enlist the faculty in establishing the merits or extent of the complaint by appointing a disinterested two-person subcommittee of the Faculty Hearing Committee to provide advice. Reports not resolved by the dean may be brought to the attention of the provost. Students may also seek advice from the Office of Ombuds in resolving a complaint. 

Behavioral Policies 

BANNERS

Banners can only be placed on the interior or exterior of Duke buildings and property in accordance with guidelines set by the University. For safety reasons, banners, signs and flags may not be affixed to sticks, poles or any object that presents a safety hazard. Banners, signs, and flags are permitted at protests and demonstrations. However, Duke reserves the right to disallow or request the removal of any banners, signs, or flags that obstruct the views of others, cover existing signs, or are deemed threatening or a possible violation of the Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Related Misconduct (PPDHRM). 

Students and Student Organizations should contact the following offices for specific details and guidance: 

  • For Residence Life banners contact the appropriate Residence Coordinator at https://students.duke.edu/living/housing/hrl-team/. Internal banners inside residential buildings can be hung as long as it does not do significant damage to the wall and total wall coverings do not exceed ten percent of a student’s total wall space in their assigned room. Banners attached to residential buildings are limited to five feet by five feet in dimension (or smaller) and may not cover the windows of a room in a manner that impedes egress. Banners may not have objects hanging from them (to weigh banner down). Only banners or flags can be hung outside of windows. 
  • For all other University buildings and light poles, posting and hanging must be approved by Facilities Management, located at Smith Warehouse, Bay 1 (919-684-2122). 

CHALKING 

Chalking is prohibited on any surface, including, but not limited to, sidewalks, archways, and benches. 

PROMOTION AND PUBLICITY (I.E. FLYERS, POSTERS, ANNOUNCEMENTS, BULLETIN BOARDS, AND SOCIAL MEDIA) 

Only Duke University members may publicize events or causes on campus as designated below. The form and content of any promotion and/or publicity will not be restricted, unless it violates University policy or any applicable federal, state, or local law, falsely defames a specific individual/group, constitutes a genuine threat or violates the University’s Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Related Misconduct, or the University’s Harassment Policy, unjustifiably invades substantial privacy or confidentiality interests, or is otherwise disruptive to or interferes with the normal operation of the University or University-sponsored activities. 

The following guidelines should be followed when posting any materials on campus, whether inside or outside of University owned property, and failure to comply may result in disciplinary action: 

  • Promotion/Publicity must provide information regarding student activities, give information of an academic nature, make announcements pertinent to the business of the University, or supply information 
  • to members of the Duke community regarding available campus services or products. 
  • Promotion/Publicity must state the name of the sponsoring organization, business, department, or person responsible. 
  • All materials should be posted only on approved bulletin boards or designated posting areas. 
  • Promotion/Publicity materials must NOT be attached to doors, windows, trashcans, entryways, exteriors of buildings, interior walls, stairway railings, floors, benches or ceilings, nor may they be placed on the windshields of parked automobiles or on sidewalks, or attached or affixed to any tree or utility pole. 
  • As appropriate for the surface, staples, thumbtacks, magnets, masking tape, or painter’s tape may be used 
  • to attach promotion/publicity. The use of glue, nails, and duct tape or any other heavy-duty tape is prohibited. 
  • All Promotion/Publicity (and the fasteners used to attach them) must be removed within three days after the advertised event. 
  • All promotion/publicity may be periodically removed from bulletin boards as part of routine maintenance or removed at any time if in violation of University policy. 
  • Academic/Residential spaces may have more restrictive policies regarding promotion/publicity materials in their spaces. Student(s)/Student organization(s) are responsible for inquiring with the appropriate authority for any academic/residential space to learn about the relevant policies. 

A respondent may be held accountable for sponsoring and/or co-sponsoring any promotion and/or publicity that may be in violation of any University policies. 

OVERVIEW 

As a community of scholars and learners, Duke University expects those within its community to be responsible for their choices related to the use of alcohol and other drugs. In keeping with this principle and federal, state, and local laws, the University's Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy emphasizes individual and shared responsibility, healthy and informed decision-making, the maintenance of a caring environment, and the promotion of genuine dialogue. Students are encouraged to learn about the potential social, physiological, and psychological consequences of alcohol and drug abuse. Excessive and high-risk substance use can lead to negative consequences for the Duke community and its members, including assault, illness, injury, litter, noise, property damage, driving under the influence, arrest and/or criminal charges. All members of the Duke community share responsibility for creating an environment that limits dangerous substance use behaviors and, therefore, reduces the likelihood of these negative outcomes. Members of the Duke community are responsible for behaving in a manner that is not disruptive or endangering to themselves or others. Being under the influence of alcohol will not constitute as a mitigating factor for an individual’s behavior. 

Reasonable use of alcohol is permitted in select areas of campus pursuant to the following guidelines: 
  • Hard liquor is prohibited on all campuses (East Campus, West Campus, 300 Swift, Blue Apartment) for 
  • all students, regardless of whether a student is above 21 years of age, except at events in which licensed service (i.e., a venue that holds a liquor license) is being utilized. 
  • Students aged 21 and over may consume and/or possess alcohol on campus (except on East Campus). 
  • Students under 21 years of age are not permitted to purchase, possess, or consume alcoholic beverages. Student(s) and student organizations are considered in violation of this policy if they facilitate the acquisition of alcohol by anyone under the age of 21. An exception may exist for students studying abroad in jurisdictions with different laws regarding the age of alcohol consumption. Students studying abroad must comply with the laws of the jurisdiction in which they are located. 
  • Alcoholic beverages are not permitted in first-year residence halls or the surrounding grounds. 
  • Licensed kegs (i.e., kegs obtained from a licensed retailer such as a brewery, ABC, etc.) are allowed for gatherings of 50 or more in the common spaces of residence halls on West Campus (not in private rooms) and other spaces on campus that have been reserved pursuant to the Guidelines for Events Involving Alcohol. Other common-source containers (including, but not limited to, the following: "punch bowls, coolers, garbage cans, BORGS, kiddie pools, etc.) are prohibited except as specifically authorized by the University." Student(s) and student organizations are prohibited from engaging in actions that are harmful or potentially harmful to oneself or others involving the use of alcohol (i.e., off-campus public intoxication, illegal driving while under the influence of alcohol, attempted use of fraudulent identification or another’s identification to obtain alcohol, etc.). Prohibited actions while under the influence of alcohol that are disruptive to the on and off-campus communities include but are not limited to disorderly conduct, damaging property, fighting, running away, or hiding from University or public officials. 
  • Any gathering (i.e., 25 guests or more present) where alcohol is present must be registered by the hosting student(s) or student organization(s) and is required to follow the Guidelines for Events Involving Alcohol. The Guidelines for Events Involving Alcohol are designed to promote safe events for community members and help student(s) and student organizations mitigate the risks of hosting an event. For more information regarding registering social events and/or events with alcohol, see the Guidelines for Events Involving Alcohol. 
  • At its discretion, the University may prohibit specific calendar dates, individual(s), student organizations, and/or events with alcohol. 

Overview 

The health and safety of every student within the Duke University community is of the utmost importance. The University recognizes that students who have been endangered by alcohol intoxication, drug use (whether voluntary or involuntary), hazing, or other health risks may be hesitant to seek help or report incidents due to fear of potential consequences for their conduct. 

Students are strongly encouraged to call 911 or Duke University Police (919-684-2444) if they or someone else is experiencing a health or safety emergency. The University’s top priority is to ensure that students receive the medical attention they need without fear of disciplinary consequences for seeking help. 

The Amnesty Provision does not mean students or student organizations get a “free pass” or avoid accountability. Instead, this policy provides an opportunity to address issues through an educational process that focuses on growth, safety, and responsibility. Through this process, students and student organizations work in partnership with the University to explore the underlying causes of the concerning behavior, reflect on its impact, and develop skills or strategies that support their well-being as members of the University community. 

Policy

The Amnesty Provision applies to: 
  • Any student whose health or safety is at risk and who, in good faith, seeks medical assistance for themselves. 
  • Any student, or student organization, who in good faith, seeks medical assistance from University personnel, local law enforcement, or first responders for another individual whose health or safety is at risk; 
  • Any student or student organization that swiftly takes action to stop behaviors related to hazing. 
In any alleged hazing-related circumstance, amnesty may be considered when students or student organizations: 
  • Ensure immediate care for any student(s) in need; 
  • Self-reports the incident to the Office of Student Conduct & Community Standards (OSCCS) via Student Affairs Referral Form; 
  • Provide complete and truthful information throughout any and all University investigation and adjudication processes 
This Amnesty Provision does not: 
  • Excuse or protect students or student organizations who repeatedly or deliberately violate University policy; 
  • Exempt a student or student organization from any criminal or other legal consequences associated with the use of alcohol and/or drugs or any hazing allegation(s), investigation(s), or finding(s); or, Preclude the University from addressing additional policy violations discovered during an investigation (e.g., vandalism, physical violence, assault, harassment, etc.) 

No formal disciplinary action or outcome(s) will be imposed solely for violations related to the Alcohol, Drug, and Hazing policies by the reporting Duke student(s) who sought medical assistance for themselves or for the Duke student(s) and/or a Duke student organization that sought medical assistance for another student in good faith. 

However, students and student organizations for whom the Amnesty Provision is enacted may be required to: 
  1. Attend an approved alcohol or drug education program through the University; 
  2. Complete an educational assignment, assessment, and/or possible referral for treatment. 

The University reserves the right to require parental notification in the event of an amnesty-related, EMS transport of a student under the age of 21. Parents or legal guardians will be notified for both amnesty-related EMS assessment and transport involving a student under the age of 18. 

If a student or student organization fails to meet with a University staff member regarding the Amnesty provision meeting or chooses not to participate in the required educational expectations under the Amnesty provision policy, that student or student organization may be subject to formal disciplinary action for failure to comply and/or subsequent policy violation(s). 

Any student or student organization granted amnesty under this policy will not receive a reportable disciplinary record or a notation on their academic transcript related to the aforementioned policies. 

Any animal brought on campus by students or guests may not be unrestrained. With the exception of service animals, animals are prohibited inside any University facility, unless authorized by the space manager responsible for that facility/space. Any type of animal abuse is prohibited, including but not limited to abandonment of or failure to properly care for an animal. Animals, live or dead, may not be used in pranks or otherwise for amusement or ceremony in connection with any institutional or student organization function or activity. 

Residents may not have animals, including, but not limited to dogs, cats, birds, and reptiles, in or around University residence halls or apartments, even for short periods. If an animal enters a residence hall or apartment, the area will be exterminated at the expense of the residents. Students found to have pets inside a residence hall, will be charged an extra cleaning fee. Costs will vary due to the extent of cleaning required but could range from $300-$500 for a single room to an entire apartment and is dependent on the level of damage from the pet. Legal species of fish are allowed, provided they are kept in a single aquarium no larger than 25 gallons and the container is cleaned regularly. 

Service and assistance animals are permitted. Residents requiring a reasonable accommodation allowing the use of a service or assistance animal in University housing must have the accommodation registered with and approved by the Student Disability Access Office prior to moving in. 

The purpose of this policy is to ensure an aesthetically pleasing campus, protect University facilities, and allow students to use the East Campus bridge/tunnel without damaging neighboring property. Individuals and student organizations may express opinions within this area that are not restricted by content, except by legal standards. 

The surface of the East Campus bridge/tunnel (located on Campus Drive under Main Street) may be painted within the span of the ceiling of the tunnel (but not the ceiling itself), as well as on the outer edge of the Pettigrew Bridge facing Campus Drive and, the exterior (inner) face of the concrete Campus Drive tunnel walls. 

However, painting is not allowed on the sidewalks or roadways inside or outside the tunnel. Supplies are the responsibility of the painter(s) and are not provided by the University. Painter(s) may not impede the flow of traffic. Any ladders used may not exceed six feet. 

There is no restriction regarding painting over the sections of the tunnel that other people or student organizations have painted—no matter how recently they have been painted. However, animosity is often generated toward student organizations who paint over sections that are advertising events not yet held, or sections painted very recently. Please use courtesy and common sense when selecting an area of the tunnel to paint. 

Duke University administration may determine that some or all of bridge illustrations may be painted over at any point of time it is determined that expression is discrimination based on the PPDHRM, directs or incites imminent lawless action (criminal activity and/or University policy violations), or is determined to be a direct or indirect threat of violence. 

Any person may remove non-conforming material. Policy violations resulting in the need for restoration should be reported to Duke University Police. Reimbursement for any restoration costs (i.e., paint removal, cleaning, removal of residual substances, and so on) will be the responsibility of the violating party. 

No painting will be allowed at any other locations on the campus of Duke University, including these areas near the tunnel: 

bridge where painting is permitted
Painting is permitted on the outer edge of the Pettigrew Bridge facing Campus Drive and the exterior (inner) face of the concrete Campus Drive tunnel walls. 
No paining on Pettigrew St. Bridge or light poles
Left: The Pettigrew Street Bridge (side of the bridge on Pettigrew Street not overlooking Campus Drive)
Right: On any light poles, signs or signposts
no painting on steps, handrails, or sidewalks
Left: The steps and handrails from Campus Drive to Pettigrew Street 
Right: Any handrails, roadways, or sidewalks, even if located inside the tunnel 

Students or student organizations who violate these expectations will be held accountable through the University’s disciplinary processes and may also be subject to criminal charges. Note that that defacement of any public property (i.e., property not owned by Duke) is a violation of North Carolina law. 

Although there is no restriction on the content painted on the East Campus Bridge (except by legal standards), painters should consider the broad effect of what is depicted/written on the walls on the overall campus climate. Threats and harassment are not protected by free expression rights and are never acceptable. 

Consider these questions as you plan to paint: 

  • Is the content in generally good taste? 
  • Does the content offend or target a specific person or group of people? 
  • Is the content something that could be taken out of context and appear harmful? 
  • Have you considered the impact on those visiting Duke or transversing this area? 

Students or student organizations who behave in the classroom in such a way that the educational experiences of other students and/or the instructor’s course objectives are disrupted are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including possible exclusion from a course. 

Such behavior impedes students’ ability to learn or an instructor’s ability to teach. Disruptive behavior may include, but is not limited to: 

  • non-approved use of electronic devices; 
  • cursing or shouting at others in such a way as to be disruptive; 
  • or other violations of an instructor’s expectations for classroom conduct. 

Duke cherishes freedom of expression, the diversity of values and perspectives inherent in an academic institution, the right to acknowledgment, and the value of privacy for all members of the Duke community. At the same time, Duke may be required by law to access and disclose information from computer and network users’ accounts or may find it necessary do so in order to protect Duke’s legal interests, uphold contractual obligations, or comply with other applicable Duke policies. Duke may also be required to access information to diagnose and correct technical problems. 

ACCEPTABLE USE 

In making acceptable use of computing and electronic resources you must: 

  • Protect your user id and system from unauthorized use. You are responsible for all activities on your user id or that originate from your system. 
  • Access only information that is your own, that is publicly available, or to which you have been given authorized access. 
  • Refrain from monopolizing systems, overloading networks with excessive data, degrading services, or wasting computer time, connection time, disk space, printer paper, manuals, or other resources. 
  • Seek pre-approval from OIT before deploying/using code that potentially impacts server resources or automates processes (e.g., in registering for classes). 

In making acceptable use of computing and electronic resources you must not: 

  • Use another person’s system, files, or data without permission (note that permission from an individual user may not be sufficient—some systems may require additional authority) 
  • Give your password to another person (including to your parents). Contact the OIT Service Desk if you need assistance with giving other people authority to access your files or e-mail. 
  • Attempt to circumvent or subvert security measures. 
  • Engage in any activity that might be purposefully harmful to systems or to any information stored thereon. 
  • Make unauthorized modifications to University data. 
  • Make or use illegal copies of copyrighted software or other copyrighted works, store such copies on University systems, or transmit them over University networks. 
  • Use the University ’s systems or networks for commercial purposes; for example, by selling access to your user id or by performing work for profit with University resources in a manner not authorized by the University. 

The above list only addresses some of the most common issues that arise with regard to computing. All prohibitions found in applicable law and other University policies also apply to the computer systems here. All students are expected to adhere to the guidelines associated with their issued physical and/or mobile Duke Card. Visit the Duke Card website for full information and current policies. 

GROUP E-MAIL 

Duke University has established a group e-mail policy that outlines appropriate uses for group e-mail. This e-mail policy applies to all group e-mails sent through Duke’s e-mail systems. 

Large-scale e-mail communications, including surveys, announcements, etc., require the implicit or explicit prior approval of that group or unit. Visit the OIT website for full information and current policies. Note that the above computing policies are subject to change. 

The Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Related Misconduct (PPDHRM) governs allegations of discrimination based on age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status (i.e., protected class status). The Office for Institutional Equity facilitates the investigation and resolution of discrimination matters. Student Affairs offices, such as the Office of Student Conduct & Community Standards, and Duke Reach provide support and interim measures, as needed, for all students. 

It is prohibited for any individual or student organization to intentionally or recklessly engage in conduct that interrupts or interferes with (i) the academic environment or educational experiences of other students and/or instructor’s course objectives; (ii) the authorized or other permissible use of University facilities, including University-sponsored or approved activities and events; or (iii) the rights and privileges of other members of the University community. 

Prohibited conduct may include, but is not limited to: 

  • Preventing any University community member (even for a brief period of time) from hearing a lecture or taking an exam; 
  • Violations of an instructor’s expectations for classroom conduct; 
  • Shouting slurs, epithets, or profane language in public spaces, including classrooms; 
  • Displaying obscene materials in public view; 
  • Unreasonable or reckless conduct that is inherently or potentially unsafe to other persons or their real or personal property; 
  • Reckless driving; 
  • Refusing to leave a private area or closed meeting when unauthorized to attend; 
  • Interrupting or interfering with the carrying out of the duties of a University or public official, including law enforcement; 
  • Urinating, defecating and/or vomiting in public view or in any public or private space not intended for such a purpose; 
  • Behavior on or off-campus, including online, that significantly interferes with the ability of others to live in a safe and reasonably peaceful environment or interferes with normal operation of the University; and, Indecent exposure. 
  • Improper use of AI for deep fakes and inappropriate behavior 

This policy does not restrict open expression and academic freedom that is otherwise protected, including speech that some may find objectionable. However, the exercise of those rights must be done in a manner that is free from disruption or interference. You can learn more about free speech and open expression here. 

Duke University prohibits the possession of cannabis (regardless of strain) and other drug paraphernalia, including but not limited to bongs, pipes, grinders, homemade equipment, THC vapes/cartridges, alternative cannabis products (i.e. tinctures, lotions/balms), vapes for use with cannabis oils. Drugs and drug paraphernalia are not permitted on campus due to federal regulations. 

Students and student organizations, regardless of age or location, are prohibited from possessing, using, selling, distributing, growing, manufacturing, and facilitating the use of illegal drugs, controlled substances, and other illegal substances, as well as substances that are used to impair. This includes the improper use of an otherwise lawful substance. This includes substances covered under the North Carolina Controlled Substances Act, the North Carolina Toxic Vapors Act, the Drug- Free Schools and Communities Act and/or any other applicable law. 

Duke prohibits the unlawful distribution, possession, social sharing, non-prescribed use, or misuse for prescription drugs. Altering, tampering, or forging a prescription is prohibited. 

Duke prohibits driving while under the influence of drugs, regardless of location or age, except as permitted by law. 

Duke also prohibits the possession of drug paraphernalia, including, but not limited to bongs, pipes, homemade equipment or THC vapes/cartridges. 

If a University official responds to the smell of cannabis, the Office of Student Conduct & Community Standards may proceed with a disciplinary process and may determine responsibility, based on the totality of the information. 

The factors to be considered include, but are not limited to: 

  • the smell of cannabis, 
  • the presence of paraphernalia related to cannabis use (water bongs, grinders, pipes), 
  • behaviors indicative of cannabis/THC influence, 
  • and any applicable packing, packaging, or testing materials. 

All students are expected to carry (or display, at University official request) either their physical Duke Card or Mobile Duke Card while on campus. 

A student or student organization may be held accountable for failure to comply with: 

  • reasonable directions, requests, directives, expectations, or orders of any University representative or body acting in an official capacity, or impeding with the carrying out of such directives; 
  • reasonable instructions of law enforcement officials acting in an official capacity; 
  • specified protocols and policies for protected research data; and/or 
  • resolutions and/or outcomes rendered during the disciplinary process (including resolutions and/or outcomes issued by a residential staff member). 

Honesty and integrity are critical components of the Duke Community Standard. A student or student organization may be subject to disciplinary action for any of the following actions: 

  • any intentional misrepresentation of fact (by action or concealment), including furnishing false information, to any University official; 
  • any intentional misrepresentation of fact (by action or concealment) to obtain or attempt to induce another to surrender a right, benefit, or property; and/or forgery, alteration, or misuse of any official document, record, key, access code, or instrument of identification, or possession of such forgery. 
  • unauthorized representation of oneself as another person or entity in any University-related activity, whether in-person or via digital/online platforms; 
  • presenting false information on behalf of a student group or organization, including misrepresentation in funding requests, event proposals, or affiliation with external entities 

Please read and adhere to the following references to the Duke University Fire Safety Manual. Any supplemental statements listed below apply in addition to those described in the Safety Manual. 

Candles and other open flames

It is a violation of University policy to light any material on fire on campus. Candles, other open flame devices, and incense are strictly forbidden for use inside Duke University facilities. Battery or electrically powered candles will be used except when a religious activity specifically requires the use of a live flame. Students and student organizations will be held financially accountable for any damage they cause as a result of violating this policy and will be referred to the disciplinary process. Additionally, students may be subject to revocation of their Housing License for any violation of this policy. 

Those individuals wishing to utilize live flame candles in observance of a religious holiday should contact the appropriate Religious Life group at Duke for guidance. OESO Fire & Life Safety (OESO F&LS) will not accept requests directly from students. OESO F&LS will provide information concerning fire prevention directly to Religious Life at Duke and Jewish Life at Duke. Use of candles will not be permitted inside any residential facilities. Requests for use of live flame candles in outdoor locations need to follow the same process and are subject to approval on a case-by-case basis. All personnel should know the location of building fire equipment to include fire extinguishers and manual fire alarm pull stations. 

Fire Alarms and Evacuation. In the event of a fire, the most important thing is for you to evacuate the building safely. Make sure you familiarize yourself with the evacuation routes in your area. Fire emergency response is defined by the acronym R.A.C.E. If you discover a fire or see a flame or smoke, follow the RACE procedures: Remove all persons in immediate danger to safety. Activate manual pull station and call or have someone call 911. Close doors and windows to prevent the spread of smoke and fire. Extinguish the fire (if you are able) and/or evacuate. 

Fire Drill Training 

OESO Fire & Life Safety Division staff conducts four student housing fire drills per year (two each semester). They go on site to supervise all aspects of the drills, including observation, evaluation, and documentation. The standard procedure entails activating the fire alarm system, usually by engaging a staff member/student volunteer to use a manual pull station. All students, faculty, staff, and visitors must exit the building and meet at their designated Emergency Assembly Point (EAP). Occupants are then briefed on their performance of evacuating the building, ways in which to improve said evacuation, how to activate a pull station, what to do in the event of a real fire, and how to use a fire extinguisher. Never assume that a fire alarm is a drill or false alarm. Remain calm and evacuate the facility. Evacuation is mandatory for all individuals when the fire alarm is sounding. Anyone who fails to evacuate may face disciplinary action. Follow the directions of fire and police personnel and never re-enter the building until they give permission to do so. For more information regarding the policies associated with Fire Safety & Protection, please read and adhere to the following document: https://www.safety.duke.edu/sites/default/files/IV_1FireProtection.pdf  

Open fires

Students who either provide or contribute materials to burn or who ignite or attempt to ignite flammable materials will be considered in violation of this policy. Students also should realize that such actions violate state law and may result in a citation for unlawful burning. 

Grills

A permit from the City of Durham may be required for using a grill. Additionally, members of the University community must obtain an evaluation and a written letter of consent from the Office of Fire & Life Safety Division before using a grill. Failure to comply with this policy and city ordinance may result in a fine imposed by the Durham Fire Marshal, as well as potential disciplinary action. 

ELECTRICAL WIRING/APPLIANCES 

Tampering with electrical wiring, including but not limited to the installation of direct-wired ceiling fans and unauthorized entry into electrical panel boxes, is prohibited. Residents are responsible for any damages caused by electrical appliances that are not owned by Duke University. 

HALOGEN LAMPS 

OESO Fire & Life Safety Division and Housing and Residence Life prohibit halogen lights in residential areas. The very high temperatures reached by their bulbs constitute a fire hazard and a potential source of burns. In addition, the geometry of the floor model lamp tends to make them very unstable and easily tipped over. 

DECORATIONS, HOLIDAY, AND THEME PARTIES FIREWORKS/PYROTECHNICS 

Students or performers may not possess/use fireworks or pyrotechnics of any kind on campus. Anyone who sees a person with these materials should immediately report it to Duke Police. 

FLAMMABLE/COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS 

Flammable/combustible materials including but not limited to gasoline, lighter fluid, and propane tanks are not permitted inside residential buildings. 

OBSTRUCTION OF HALLWAYS, STAIRWELLS, SIDEWALKS, AND LAWNS 

North Carolina fire safety codes prohibit the obstruction of hallways and stairwells. The Durham Fire Marshal mandates the immediate removal of all items obstructing hallways and stairwells. Housing and Residence Life, Facilities Management, OESO Fire & Life Safety, or Duke Police will remove without warning or reimbursement furniture, bicycles, lumber, and all other items found obstructing hallways or stairwells. 

University furniture will be removed from hallways and stairwells and residents may be charged for missing furniture. Sidewalks, stairways, and entryways must not be used for purposes other than ingress or egress. Bicycles or scooters may not be left in these areas or other locations where they may cause harm to persons or grounds keeping equipment. 

DAMAGING OR TAMPERING WITH FIRE SAFETY EQUIPMENT 

Relocating, removing, tampering with, or destroying smoke detectors or fire safety equipment is strictly prohibited. Damage and/or theft of fire equipment are punishable under North Carolina state law. Intentional false alarms, damage, theft, and misuse of fire detection, alarm, and extinguishing equipment are punishable under the criminal law provision of the North Carolina Statute 14-286 and may result in the loss of housing privileges and/or disciplinary action. In addition, residents will be charged for fire damage resulting from neglect or intentional actions. If a resident or staff member notices any damaged, missing, or malfunctioning equipment, they should immediately report the deficiency to the housing office or OESO Fire & Life Safety Division. 

It is against North Carolina state law and Duke University policy to gamble, with the exception of the state lottery and online sports wagering. A student/student organization is gambling if the student/student organization operates, plays, or bets at any game of chance at which any money, property, or other thing of value is bet. Raffles of any kind, including those sponsored by student organizations, are also prohibited. A “raffle” is defined as “a game in which the prize is won by random drawing of the name or number of one or more persons purchasing chances” (N.C.G.S. §14-309.15). Poker nights and casino games are permitted only if no admission is charged, no buy-in is required, and no real money is wagered. Sports wagering is permitted only through a licensed online operator for persons 21 and up. “Sports wagering” is defined as “placing wagers on a sporting event [defined as professional sports, amateur sports, and college sports], a portion of a sporting event, or individual performance statistics of athletes in a sporting event,” this does not include “fantasy or simulated games or contests.” (N.C.G.S. §18C-902). 

Students and student organizations are responsible for notifying their guests of University rules and regulations and may be held accountable for the conduct of their guests. Guests can be Duke University students or non-students. 

Guests on campus who do not abide by University policies are subject to being trespassed. Students are responsible for the behavior of visitors to their room/apartment and may be found responsible for behavior that occurs there whether or not the occupant(s) is/are present. 

The Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Related Misconduct (PPDHRM) governs allegations of harassment based on age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status (i.e., protected class status); see the PPDHRM policy. The Office for Institutional Equity facilitates the investigation and resolution of discrimination matters. Student Affairs provides support and interim measures, as needed, for all students. 

All other allegations of harassment that do not involve a protected class status are covered under this policy. Under this policy, harassment is defined as unwelcome conduct that is so severe, persistent, and/or pervasive that it alters the conditions of education, employment, or participation in a program or activity, thereby creating an environment that a reasonable person in similar circumstances and with similar identities would find hostile, intimidating, or abusive. Harassment is distinguished from behavior that, even though unpleasant or disconcerting, is appropriate to the carrying out of certain instructional, advisory, or supervisory responsibilities. 

OVERVIEW 

The purpose of this policy is to prevent hazing in all forms, promote the safety and well-being of students, and affirm the institution’s commitment to a respectful and inclusive campus environment. 

Hazing (defined below) is a serious infraction of Duke University regulations and federal and/or state law. Duke University is committed to providing a safe educational environment for all students and does not tolerate hazing by any group, individual, or University personnel affiliated with the University. 

Hazing often arises during a student’s initiation into an organization, such as a fraternity, sorority, athletic team, sports club, or covered society, where a perceived or actual power differential exists between current and new members. A student organization is formed when at least two currently enrolled Duke University students engage in organized gatherings and communications around shared interests, regardless of whether the student organization is registered and/or recognized by the University. 

As required by the Stop Campus Hazing Act, Duke University will collect statistics on hazing incidents, which will be published within the Campus Hazing Transparency Report. This report will include all data points gathered, such as the date the investigation was initiated, the date the investigation concluded, the date the student organization was notified that a hazing violation occurred, and the outcomes each student organization received. The Campus Hazing Transparency Report is published annually to the campus community. 

Policy

The University defines Hazing as any intentional or reckless situation created, whether on or off University premises, that is potentially harmful to an individual’s physical, emotional, or psychological well-being, regardless of an individual’s willingness to participate or its relevance to the individual’s membership status in a recognized or unrecognized student organization. 

Hazing includes, but is not limited to, the following: 
  • Criminal and Threatening Behavior 
    • Any conduct that constitutes a criminal violation of local, state, tribal, or federal law 
    •  Threatening words or actions that cause a person to fear reasonable bodily harm 
  • Physical Abuse and Endangerment 
    • Forced standing for extended periods or marching in formation 
    •  Extreme physical exertion or calisthenics  
  • Coerced or Forced Consumption 
    • Coercing, restricting, or forcing the consumption of food, solids, liquids, alcohol, drugs, or other substances
  • Sleep and Sensory Deprivation
    • Sleep deprivation or interruption of consecutive sleep hours 
    • Exposure to the elements (e.g., cold, heat, rain) as punishment or initiation 
  • Psychological and Emotional Abuse 
    • Blindfolding 
    • Acts of humiliation or degradation (e.g., streaking, wearing degrading or inappropriate apparel) 
  • Social, Academic, and Care Disruption 
    • Interfering with academic performance or classroom instruction 
    • Disruption of academic or extracurricular commitments  
    • Disruption of an individual's ability to attend to personal care, health, safety, or well-being  
  • Sexual Coercion and Harassment 
    • Forcing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to perform sexual acts 
    •  Subjecting others to compromising or sexually explicit situations 
  • Additional Prohibited Practices 
    • Activities that, by their time, place, or manner, would not typically constitute hazing but are rendered inappropriate due to the context or intent  
    • Organizing or requiring unauthorized "road trips" 

Students and student organizations are expected to respect the rights of others at all times, whether on or on campus. When off campus, students are expected to abide by local noise ordinances. When on campus, student/student organizations must follow the expectations set forth in the Residence Life and Event Registration polices. 

During specified hours, higher noise levels are permitted but must remain at a level considerate of those students who wish to study or sleep. 

Please refer to the Housing and Residence Life Policy for expectations in the residence halls. Quiet hours are in effect 24 hours a day, from reading day(s) through the end of finals. Students and student organizations, whether on or off campus, are expected to abide by local noise ordinances. 

Amplified Sound

  • Amplified sound is not allowed inside any campus center buildings unless prior approval by Campus Life is obtained. 
  • Campus Life reserves the right to require amplification systems to be turned down or off if they disrupt services, students, or other events 
Amplified sound is allowed in residential spaces with approval from Conference and Event Services. 

East Campus: 

  • Friday 5:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m. 
  • Saturday 12:00 p.m. -12:00 a.m. 
  • Sunday 12:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. 

West Campus: 

  • Monday through Thursday 5:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. 
  • Friday 5:00 p.m.-2:00 a.m. 
  • Saturday 1:00 p.m. -2:00 a.m. 
  • Sunday 1:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. 
Amplified sound is allowed outdoors with approval from Conference and Event Services: 
  • Monday through Friday 5:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. 
  • Saturday and Sunday until 11:00 p.m. 

Amplified sound is allowed on the BC Plaza:  

  • Monday through Friday 12:00 p.m. -1:00 p.m. 
  • Monday through Thursday 5:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. 

Exceptions to these days and times may be granted by the Vice President of Student Affairs (or designee) for major University events including, but not limited to: Last Day of Classes (LDOC), Bricks to Stone, and Convocation. 

Outdoor Areas: 
  • Events and activities on the grounds of the campus, including the use of sound amplification 
  • Equipment and construction for exhibits or other purposes must be approved in advance and in writing by the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs for student organizations, by Event Management for all other users 
All Campuses:

Students who are disturbed by noise should attempt to resolve the situation by contacting the other party(ies) involved; or, if needed, seek the assistance of resident assistants, assistant residence coordinators, and residence coordinators. If necessary, persistent complaints may be registered by calling your designated RA on Call or Duke Police at 919-684-2444. 

Students are responsible for the actions of their guests; co-habitants, as a whole, may be held responsible for violations of this policy by their individual members or their guests. Initial complaints will be referred to appropriate residential staff. Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, as well as the existence of prior violations, the complaint may be forwarded to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards for disciplinary action. 

Other violations for which students or student organizations may be subject to disciplinary action include, but are not limited to: 

  • violating any other published or posted University regulations or guidelines not specifically mentioned in this guide, including, but not limited to the Residence Life, Student Involvement Leadership (SIL), Duke Recreation and Physical Education, Duke Athletics, Duke Dining, University parking & transportation regulations, Duke Testing Center, Quick Reference Guide and student behavioral expectations surrounding public health guidance; 
  • acting as an accomplice through action or negligence to the commission of any prohibited act; 
  • attempting or intending to commit any violation of laws and/or University policies; and violating local ordinances or state or federal laws (as determined through the University's disciplinary process), including those related to noise, housing occupancy, and/or the use or distribution of alcohol. 

Any physical abuse, fighting, and/or endangerment to an individual or student organization is specifically prohibited. This behavior includes, but is not limited to: 

  • physical violence or attempted physical violence against a person or student organization. This includes fighting. 
  • threat of physical violence against a person or student organization. 
  • any action that endangers the health, safety, or welfare of a person or student organization. 

Statement of Policy 

Duke University respects the right of all members of the academic community to explore and to discuss questions that interest them, to express opinions publicly and privately, and to join together to demonstrate their concern by orderly means. It is the policy of the University to protect the right of voluntary assembly, to make its facilities available for peaceful assembly, to welcome guest speakers, to protect the exercise of these rights from disruption or interference. 

The University also respects the right of each member of the academic community to be free from coercion and harassment. It recognizes that academic freedom is no less dependent on ordered liberty than any other freedom, and it understands that the harassment of others is especially reprehensible in a community of scholars. The substitution of noise for speech and force for reason is a rejection and not an application of academic freedom. A determination to discourage conduct which is disruptive and disorderly does not threaten academic freedom; it is, rather, a necessary condition of its very existence. Therefore, Duke University will not allow disruptive or disorderly conduct on its premises to interrupt its proper operation. Persons engaging in disruptive action or disorderly conduct shall be subject to disciplinary action, including expulsion or separation, and also charges of violations of law. 

A picket, protest, and/or demonstrations is an event and must comply with University event policies and processes. Students planning a picket, protests, or demonstration should use Duke Groups to register their event and can request Pickets, Protests, and Demonstration team support upon registering. Students can direct additional event registration questions to Event Services (eventservices@duke.edu). 

Rule 

Disruptive picketing, protesting, or demonstrating on Duke University property or at any place in use for an authorized University purpose is prohibited. 

While Duke University recognizes the right to voluntary assembly, members of the University community must recognize that the Duke University Health System provides care for individuals needing uninterrupted medical services in tranquil surroundings. Accordingly, all pickets, demonstrations, mass assemblies, and protests shall be confined to campus areas and are strictly prohibited in or around any Duke University Health System building. 

Hearing and Appeal

Cases arising out of violations of the Pickets and Protests Regulations will be heard by the University Judicial Board, in accordance with the procedures outlined herein. The University Judicial Board shall have jurisdiction over members of the student body, members of the faculty, and administrative personnel of the University not subject to the personnel policy handbook. Hearings will be conducted with regard for academic due process. The decision of the University Judicial Board shall be final if the accused is exonerated or if there is no appeal. 

In other cases, students may appeal to the president, or, in their absence, the provost, in which case such appeal shall be solely on the record of the proceedings before the hearing committee of the University Judicial Board. Argument on appeal shall be written submission, but the president may, in addition, require oral argument. 

A hearing committee will consist of two faculty members, one dean, and two students. These students will be selected from members of the judicial boards or governments in the undergraduate, graduate, or professional colleges or schools. The chair of the hearing committee will be designated by its members. The hearing committee will conduct its proceedings in accordance with academic due process. 

Amendments

These regulations on pickets, protests, and demonstrations may be changed or amended by the University at any time but any such change or amendment shall be effective only after due notice or publication. These regulations supersede any regulations heretofore issued on the sub. 

Students and student organizations are expected to respect the property of others (including that of the University) and may be subject to disciplinary action for the following: 

  • damage, destruction, reckless and/or negligent behavior, defacement of the property of another, including littering or chalking of University property that results in or could foreseeably result in damage to University property or facilities; 
  • unauthorized access, entry, and/or use of University or non-University facilities or property, including, but not limited to buildings, classrooms, residential rooms, athletic areas, parking areas, roofs, ledges, and tunnels; 
  • unauthorized possession, misuse, removal, relocation, or obstruction of property or equipment belonging 
  • to the University; 
  • violation of any policy or guidelines pertaining to specific usage of a University facility and/or threatening damage, destruction or defacement of property 

Retaliation by individual students, groups of students, or student organizations is prohibited. Retaliation is an adverse action or threat of adverse action taken against an individual for reporting behavior that may be prohibited by law or policy or participating in an investigation or resolution process related to an allegation of misconduct. 

Retaliation must be sufficiently severe or pervasive to create an environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or abusive, adversely affecting the targeted individual’s/student organization’s educational, work, or living environment. 

The Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Related Misconduct (PPDHRM) governs allegations of sexual/gender-based harassment and applies to all members of the Duke community (faculty, staff and students (undergraduate, graduate and professional). 

This Policy prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or military status (collectively, “protected status” or “protected characteristics”). This prohibition includes discrimination and harassment based on the perception of an individual’s protected status, even if that perception is incorrect. The Policy also prohibits related misconduct, such as sexual assault, relationship violence, stalking, and retaliation. This Policy applies to all operations of Duke University and Duke University Health System. More information, please review the Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Related Misconduct website. 

When the OSCCS receives reports alleging sexual misconduct, a Dean of Students representative will contact the complainant to outline support options and inform the complainant about their option to contact the Office of Institutional Equity. The Office for Institutional Equity conducts any investigations under the PPDHRM. 

Students are encouraged to seek supportive measures whether or not they choose to file a complaint. For additional information about policy, processes, support and reporting of sexual/gender-based violence, see Gender Violence Education and Outreach. 

Per the Healthy Duke Initiative, Duke University maintains a smoke and tobacco-free policy on all property and grounds owned or solely leased by the University. The use of all tobacco products, including, but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, hookahs, chewing tobacco, snuff, and electronic smoking devices such as e-cigarettes, vaporizers, vaping products, and IQOS, is prohibited on any property or grounds owned or solely leased by Duke University. 

The use of tobacco products, electronic cigarettes, and vaping devices is prohibited in University vehicles, outdoor seating or viewing areas of sports arenas and recreational spaces, including Baker Field. Furthermore, the possession of smoking-related devices is not permitted in University residence halls and apartments. 

Stalking is a course of conduct (including cyberstalking) directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear their or others’ safety, or to suffer substantial emotional distress disruption of educational opportunities. 

Stalking based on a protected status or characteristic is considered under the Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Related Misconduct. 

 

Theft, attempted theft, possession of stolen property, and unauthorized use of property are prohibited.Theft includes the unauthorized taking, use or possession of property and/or property/services of another, and the unauthorized use of student organization name and logo. Possessing stolen property occurs when a student or students know or reasonably should have known that property in their possession was obtained through theft, including knowingly being in possession of stolen goods. 

This includes, but is not limited to, unauthorized use of vehicles, equipment, services, the Duke University name and logo, University bookstore, and dining establishments.

Express or implied threats are prohibited. 

Any behavior (in words or actions) that threatens to interfere with an individual or group’s safety, academic efforts, employment, or participation in a University-sponsored program or activity, and that under the circumstances causes the individual to have a reasonable apprehension that such harm is about to occur; or any verbal, expressed, or implied threat to injure an individual or group or damage their person or property are prohibited. 

Capturing, recording, photographing, filming, livestreaming, or otherwise creating audio, video, or photographic images of an individual, including through the use of smart glasses without their consent in a location or under circumstances in which that person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, including but not limited to shower/locker rooms, residential rooms (on or off campus), and restrooms, is prohibited. 

Recording, photographing, filming, livestreaming, or otherwise capturing the image of an individual in violation of University policy, posted facility rules, program requirements, or express instructions governing a University activity, event, class, recreational program, or facility is also prohibited. 

Information, images, recordings, or other content obtained, whether directly or indirectly, in violation of this policy may not be stored, shared, transmitted, displayed, published, distributed, or otherwise disseminated by any means, whether electronic or non-electronic. 

The unauthorized use, reproduction, alteration, manipulation, creation of derivative images, recordings (including digitally altered or AI-generated content), impersonation, or distribution of an individual's image likeness, or voice without their consent is strictly prohibited. 

Although North Carolina law permits weapons on public University campuses under certain parameters, Duke University policy has not changed and continues to prohibit weapons on campus. 

It is against University policy to possess and/or use a gun, rifle, pistol, or other firearm of any kind, or any powerful explosive on University property. Additionally, other than when permitted by the Vice Provost/Vice President for Student Affairs (or designee) for legitimate educational purposes, students are not permitted to possess and/or use on campus any weapon, including, but not limited to: ammunition (live or spent), pepper spray, mace, BB gun, stun gun, paintball gun, potato gun, any-3D printed related weapon or paraphernalia (including printed bullets, weapon parts etc.), realistic-looking toy gun, air rifle, air pistol, sword, bowie knife, dagger, slingshot, switchblade knife, blackjack, and metallic knuckles, combustible materials, such as lighter fluid, fireworks, or fire starters) are prohibited.