Academic and Intellectual Policy

I. SUMMARY 

Academic and intellectual freedom are essential in a university setting as they nurture an environment where scholarship and inquiry are not only encouraged but expected. It is the  
cornerstone of a vibrant academic community, allowing students and faculty to explore breadth of ideas and perspectives, which is crucial for a well-rounded education. Strayer University upholds a steadfast commitment to academic and intellectual freedom and the pursuit of truth, fostering an environment where freedom of expression and inquiry flourish. The university's policy on academic and intellectual freedom underscores its dedication to maintaining a rigorous academic dialogue, which is integral to the learning experience. This commitment is a strong emphasis on collegiality, civility, and diversity, ensuring that all voices are and respected within the Strayer community. 

A. Academic freedom refers to the right of faculty and students to engage in intellectual inquiry and exchange ideas without undue interference or restriction from law institutional regulations, or public pressure. The core elements of academic freedom include:  
1. Teaching: The freedom to discuss all relevant topics within the classroom. 
2. Research: The freedom to pursue all avenues of scholarship, research, and creative  
expression, and to publish the findings. 
3. Intramural speech: The freedom from institutional censorship or discipline when  
participating in the governance of an educational institution; and 
4. Extramural speech: The freedom from institutional censorship or discipline when  
speaking or writing as private citizens. 

B. Intellectual freedom is the right of every individual to seek and receive information and knowledge without restriction 

III. POLICY 

A. Academic and intellectual freedom are central to Strayer’s mission of providing students with an exceptional educational experience, empowering students to achieve their personal and professional aspirations. It is the responsibility of all students, faculty, and staff to uphold the institutional commitment to academic and intellectual freedom. Strayer University’s Academic and Intellectual Freedom policy supports the growth and sharing of knowledge.  

B. Strayer University is committed to: 

1. The principles of freedom of expression and inquiry.  
2. Fostering an academic environment where robust dialogue thrives, independent of political trends.  
3. Respecting confidentiality and privacy rights of students. 
4. Respect for the diverse perspectives that are essential to the institution's educational mission; and 
5. Maintaining a learning atmosphere where open discussions contribute to the academic and professional advancement of students and faculty, all while upholding the constitutional right to free speech.

IV. FACULTY EXPECTATIONS

A. Faculty members are encouraged to actively engage in their scholarly pursuits, including teaching, research, and related activities. 
B. Faculty members have the freedom to conduct research or scholarship of their own choosing. 
C. Faculty members are protected from institutional censorship but must clearly indicate when their views do not represent Strayer University. 
D. Faculty members agree to adhere to institutional policies, yet retain the freedom to speak and write on professional matters without fear of institutional discipline or restraint. 
E. As educators, faculty members are responsible for maintaining high standards of scholarship and ensuring that classroom content remains relevant to the subject matter. 
F. Faculty members must respect the confidentiality and privacy rights of all individuals, including students. 
G. In the classroom, faculty members are expected to foster independent thinking and present information impartially. 
H. Faculty members do not have the right to discuss controversial topics in the classroom that are outside of or unrelated to their field of study or not germane to the learning outcomes or course content.  

a. “Controversial topics” refer to subject matter that provokes a significant disagreement among individuals, often leading to public debate. Controversial topics often involve issues that do not have a clear consensus and can invoke intense discussions due to differing opinions or values.  

I. If a student believes a faculty member has exceeded the bounds of academic or intellectual freedom, they should contact the Office of Student Affairs for guidance and resolution.  
J. In addition to academic and intellectual freedom matters, faculty members are expected to follow all policies set forth in SEI’s Code of Business Conduct and Employe Handbook. 

V. CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT AND ACADEMIC AND INTELLECTUAL FREEDOM 

VI. VIOLATIONS TO THE CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT POLICY 

A. Incidents deemed as hateful, threatening, or discriminatory as outlined within the Code of Student Conduct Policy (https://strayer.smartcatalogiq.com/current/student- 
handbook/student-disciplinary-and-grievance-policies-and-procedures/code-of-studentconduct/) include but are not limited to: 

• Dishonesty 
• Unprofessional conduct 
• Misuse of University property 
• Alcohol and drug violations 
• Criminal activity and violent or dangerous behavior 
• Other violations 

B. Any occurrences of the above behavior could subject a student to disciplinary action as set forth in the Student Handbook (https://strayer.smartcatalogiq.com/en/current/studenthandbook/student-disciplinary-and-grievance-policies-and-procedures/sanctions/), up to and  
including:

• Admonition 
• Disciplinary probation 
• Restitution 
• Discretionary sanctions 
• Suspension 
• Withdrawal without refund 
• Dismissal/expulsion 
• Revocation of degree 

Faculty should review SEI’s code of Business Conduct and Employee Handbook for details on Strayer policy and disciplinary measures.