Code of Conduct

In 1850, the Senate enacted a code of 18 rules for students. These included proscriptions against "impure and profane language," card games and "other games of chance," the keeping of dogs or firearms, and the use of "ardent spirits." They also required twice-a-day chapel attendance and laid down penalties as severe as expulsion for "habitual and incorrigible idleness."

Now, in general, it requires that members of the University community obey the law and respect the rights of other members, including the rights of students and faculty to express dissent, and the rights of all to work or study free from undue disturbance.

In the early 1980s, a controversy arose when University officials added an additional clause to the Code, proscribing behaviour that tended "to bring the University and its student body into disrepute." Student leaders protested that the clause was too general and could be used to prevent political protest or criticism of the university. "Clause G" was eventually rescinded.

Learn more about the Code of Conduct...