Generative AI Policy

The policy is effective starting with the August 2024 session.

The University supports the transparent and ethical use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), which refers to technologies that can create text, images, or multimedia. All use of GenAI programs must comply with all University policies, including without limitation, the University's academic integrity policy in the “Prohibited Student Conduct” section of the Student Handbook and any guidelines provided by individual departments. 

Some classes and individual assignments may encourage or require the use of Gen-AI tools. When AI use is encouraged or required, it will be clearly stated in the assignment directions. 

Examples of appropriate GenAI use include: 

• Using GenAI to brainstorm creative ideas for projects and assignments 
• Using GenAI as a research assistant to gather relevant information
• Exploring complex topics by asking GenAI to provide clear explanations and to break down intricate concepts
• Using GenAI as a study aid to create study guides, flashcards, and summaries of complex topics

Examples of inappropriate use include:  

• Allowing GenAI to write your assignment or discussion board posts for you 
• Failing to verify that the content GenAI generates is accurate, complete, current, and unbiased
• Failing to appropriately cite content generated or phrases recommended by AI or provide appropriate attribution
• Using GenAI during tests, exams, or quizzes without permission

Students are responsible for the accuracy of their coursework. Content produced by research or writing tools that use AI may contain errors and must be carefully verified. While AI may be used to begin the process of researching and to provide editing assistance, AI-generated content is not considered original, so it must be cited as borrowed ideas, images, or wording. Any use of AI that appears in a submission must be attributed or cited appropriately, e.g., (OpenAI, 2024). Because content generated by GenAI or similar tools may not meet originality standards, students should use such tools cautiously and follow all disclosure and academic integrity requirements. 

Failure to adhere to this GenAI Policy or any other policies and guidelines, may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the University.