The Student Code of Ethics
of the Krakow University of Economicsc
Introduction
The Student Code of Ethics of the Krakow University of Economics, hereinafter referred to as the Code, has been adopted out of concern for the good name of the Krakow University of Economics, hereinafter referred to as the University, and in response to the enduring need to cultivate ethical attitudes among students of the University. This initiative stems from an understanding of the correlation between the current ethical standards upheld by students and the level of ethics they will demonstrate in their future personal and professional lives.
The promotion and observance of the Code is a fundamental duty of every student and reflects their awareness of the importance of adhering to moral principles and ethical norms, aimed at achieving the highest academic standards and contributing to the development of a civic society.
The Student Code of Ethics of the Krakow University of Economics is not merely a set of prohibitions and mandates. It is, above all, a declaration of universal values, the observance of which brings distinction not only to the students themselves but also to the University, since the time of its foundation.
Chapter 1
General provisions
§1
The principles set forth in the Student Code of Ethics of the Krakow University of Economics, hereinafter referred to as the Code, are derived from generally accepted moral standards, and in particular from the ethical norms inherent to academic education.
§2
Each student is obliged to become familiar with the principles of the Code, to promote them within the academic community, and, when necessary, to stand in their defense.
§3
Compliance with the Code is entrusted to all students of the University, relying on their moral sensitivity and conscience.
§4
Any violation of the ethical standards defined in the Code, committed for material or any other personal gain, shall be considered reprehensible.
Chapter 2
Academic Community
§5
With due regard for the inherent and inalienable dignity of every human being, a student should act with honesty and integrity, and in interactions with others — regardless of their position in the academic or social hierarchy — observe the principles of good manners and high standards of personal culture.
§6
A student should base their relationships with fellow students on respect, kindness, solidarity, loyalty, and cooperation. In doing so, students contribute to building the academic community of the University.
§7
A student should support fellow students in their academic efforts, assist them in adapting to university life, and help them understand and adhere to the rules and norms prevailing at the University.
§8
A student should demonstrate personal responsibility, be accountable for their actions, and not evade the consequences of their own conduct.
§9
Discriminatory behavior by a student — based on race, religion, nationality, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or any other reason — is deemed unacceptable and reprehensible.
§10
A student should oppose all forms of wrongdoing, aggression, social pathology, and dishonest behavior.
§11
A student must not remain passive in the face of dishonest or unethical conduct by another student or a member of the University staff. They are expected to actively counteract such negative phenomena in academic life. In cases involving violations of legal norms, the student is also obliged to report the matter to the University authorities or appropriate law enforcement agencies.
Chapter 3
Student's right
§12
A student has the right to:
1) be treated equally;
2) receive a fair assessment of their knowledge and academic performance;
3) demand that their rights — granted under the Law on Higher Education and the Study Regulations of the Krakow University of Economics — are respected;
4) deepen their knowledge and develop their skills, in particular by actively participating in extracurricular classes and academic conferences;
5) engage in activities benefiting the academic community through student internships, participation in student government and University bodies, and membership in academic societies and other student organizations.
Chapter 4
Student's duties
§13
A student is obligated to:
1) comply with the duties assigned under the Law on Higher Education and the Study Regulations of the Krakow University of Economics;
2) respect the image of the University and promote its achievements;
3) respect University property.
§14
A student should not participate in any undertakings that demean the dignity of others, nor engage in actions that could harm the good reputation of the University.
§15
Even after graduation, a student should continue to uphold the good name of the University through their moral conduct and intellectual standards.
Chapter 5
Unethical and Reprehensible Conduct
§16
In all of their actions, a student shall be guided by integrity. The following behaviors are considered unethical in particular:
1) submitting coursework or other academic assignments that are not the student’s own work — especially presenting purchased or plagiarized work as one’s own;
2) violating intellectual property rights, including the use of another person's materials in theses or coursework without proper attribution;
3) violating the standards set out in this Code and in Polish law, particularly when such actions are taken to obtain financial gain or other personal benefit;
4) falsifying documents or making fraudulent entries in the student record book (Index) or examination card;
5) impersonating another student;
6) abusing personal, familial, or privileged relationships for unfair advantage;
7) showing disrespect toward academic teachers or other University staff;
8) seeking to obtain unjustified benefits or services from the University.
§17
A student has a duty to respect both University and public property. Students should demonstrate care for the technical condition and aesthetic quality of resources made available to them. The following behaviors are considered reprehensible:
1) damaging University property, especially educational facilities, student dormitories, or their equipment;
2) any other form of vandalism.
§18
A student is expected to interact with academic teachers and other University staff in accordance with the principles of good manners and academic customs. The following behaviors are particularly deemed unacceptable:
1) habitual and unjustified lack of punctuality;
2) disrupting the course of academic classes;
3) insulting or displaying a dismissive attitude.
Chapter 6
Responsibility
§19
For violations of the ethical standards outlined above, and particularly for conduct contrary to the law, a student of the University shall be held accountable before the Disciplinary Committee for Students.
§20
A student has the right to appeal the decision of the Disciplinary Committee for Students to the Appeals Disciplinary Committee for Students. The decision of the Appeals Disciplinary Committee for Students is final.
§21
The Disciplinary Committee for Students and the Appeals Disciplinary Committee for Students operate pursuant to the Law on Higher Education of July 27, 2005 (Journal of Laws No. 164, item 1365, as amended) and the Statute of the Krakow University of Economics.