The PhD program abides by principles of academic integrity, research responsibility, and social work ethics. Students are expected to adhere to the standards and policies identified below and may be dismissed by the Program Director for violation thereof.
Academic Integrity
The PhD program follows WVU policy of academic integrity. This policy applies to all work conducted in the program including coursework, comprehensive exams/dissertation proposal, dissertation, and any affiliated research projects. See Academic Integrity.
Student Conduct
The PhD program follows the WVU Code of Student Conduct. See WVU Student Code of Conduct.
Research Responsibility
All research conducted under university auspices is monitored by the WVU Institutional Review Board (IRB) for adherence to the principles of ethical and responsible research and conforms to standards set by the Office of Research Integrity , Research Compliance Administration , and the IRB. Prior to engaging in research with human subjects, students must complete the WVU required online CITI training .
NASW Code of Ethics
In addition to university standards applying to all students, the School of Social Work also adheres to the NASW Code of Ethics. The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics outlines the primary mission of the social work field, the core values of the social work profession, and the ethical principles that all social workers are expected to follow. Abiding by these personal and professional standards at all times is paramount for professional social workers. As such, all students admitted to the PhD program at WVU are expected to follow the Code of Ethics at all times. The full NASW code of ethics should be read at NASW Code of Ethics. All students must review the Code and complete an agreement form before they can begin coursework.