Academic Standards, Policies, and Integrity
The College of General Studies is committed to supporting student success. Explore the academic standards, policies, and procedures that guide our community and help students understand their rights and responsibilities.
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Academic Standing
The College of General Studies is committed to the success of its students and follows the guidelines and regulations established by the Office of the Provost regarding undergraduate academic standing.
Dean’s List
Following the fall and spring terms, College of General Studies students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement are recognized on the Dean’s List. Eligibility requirements differ for full-time and part-time students.
Full-Time Students
To qualify for the Dean’s List following the fall or spring term, a student must:
- Earn at least 12 credits during the term.
- Achieve a term GPA of at least 3.50.
Courses taken on the Satisfactory/No-Credit option do not count toward the 12-credit requirement.
Part-Time Students
To qualify for the Dean’s List following the spring term, a student must:
- Earn at least 12 credits across the consecutive fall and spring semesters.
- Achieve a cumulative GPA of at least 3.50 across those two terms.
Courses taken on the Satisfactory/No-Credit option do not count toward the 12-credit requirement.
View the CGS Dean’s List for a list of recognized students.
Grade Disputes
Students who wish to dispute a grade should follow these steps:
- The student and professor should meet to discuss the grade and attempt to resolve the dispute.
- If they cannot reach a resolution, the student and professor should meet with the chair of the department offering the course.
- The department chair provides a written resolution to the dispute.
- The student may contest the chair’s resolution with an Assistant Dean.
- The Assistant Dean may interview the student, professor, and department chair before providing a written resolution.
Student Code of Conduct
The Student Code of Conduct outlines the nonacademic rights and responsibilities of University students. It defines offenses by and against students and describes the process for reporting and addressing alleged violations through the University Student Judicial System.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is about more than following University rules. It means developing your own voice, respecting the work of other creators, and building habits that support your academic and professional reputation.
Students and faculty are expected to understand and follow the University's academic integrity standards. As members of a community of learners, all students and instructors are responsible for upholding the behavioral, academic, and ethical standards of the University and their fields of study.
The University Academic Integrity Code establishes expectations and procedures for addressing issues such as cheating and plagiarism. Matters pertaining to academic integrity and the Student Code of Conduct at CGS are handled in accordance with the academic integrity procedures established by the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences and fall under the purview of the Office of the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies and CGS.
Build Good Academic Practices
Developing strong academic habits helps you produce your own work, use information responsibly, and give appropriate credit to the ideas and contributions of others. These resources can help you build those skills:
Understand Academic Integrity
Review the academic standards and expectations that apply to the University community.
Learn How to Avoid Plagiarism
Learn how to use information from other sources, distinguish your ideas from those of others, and give proper credit through citations.
Develop Responsible Research Practices
Explore strategies for finding, evaluating, and using information effectively throughout the research process.
Using Generative AI Responsibly
Generative AI tools can support learning and research, but they should be used thoughtfully and in accordance with University standards and your instructor’s course policies. Before using these tools for coursework, understand what is permitted in your class and how to use them responsibly.
The University's Acceptable Use of Generative AI Tools Operating Standard establishes expectations for responsible use. These include:
- Verify AI-generated content.
- Protect University data.
- Respect privacy and intellectual property.
For additional guidance, tools, and student resources, visit Generative AI @ Pitt.
Remember: University-wide standards apply to all students. However, whether and how generative AI may be used for a particular assignment is determined by your instructor. Always review your syllabus and assignment instructions, and ask your instructor if you are unsure.
Questions or Need Guidance?
If you have questions about academic integrity, citation practices, or the appropriate use of generative AI in your coursework, consult the resources above and reach out to your instructor before submitting your work.