Referencing & Plagiarism: Suspected of plagiarism?

The University have very strict rules on Academic Misconduct.  The University will take action against any student that contravenes the regulations through negligence, foolishness or direct intent.

Examples of academic misconduct include:

• Plagiarising 

• Breaking examination rules

• Copying the work of another student (collusion)

• Obtaining or attempting to obtain examination papers prior to an examination

• Offering a bribe/ inducement to academic staff or invigilators

• Presenting group work as your own

• Arranging for another person to complete an assignment on your behalf

• Arranging for another person to fraudulently represent you at assessment (e.g. in an examination).

Middlesex takes plagiarism very seriously. If caught for plagiarism it is likely that you will have to repeat the module with a maximum grade of 16. At worst you might be withdrawn from your programme altogether!

It is your responsibility as students to ensure that you understand and avoid plagiarising. All students should make sure that they correctly reference their sources and make use of bibliographies to minimise the risk of plagiarising.

The Library, LET and MUSU runs workshops and clinics to help you learn how to avoid plagiarism and how to reference correctly.

If you are suspected of academic misconduct you will receive a letter from Academic Registry, which details both the allegation and any evidence. You should always respond to this letter as soon as possible, but it must be within 14 calendar days of the date on the letter.  In the letter you should address the allegation and whether you deny or accept the allegation. You should provide an explanation and state any reasons. You should also submit relevant evidence, where necessary.

If you receive an allegation of academic misconduct please contact MUSU's Academic and Welfare Advice team. They can explain the process, help you with your response letter and if necessary attend a hearing.