Student Handbook
The Student Handbook is designed to acquaint students with the specifics of the standards expected of them as members of the University community. The policies and regulations delineated in the handbook apply to all students enrolled at Vanderbilt. What students may expect of each other, and the principles that form the basis of what the University expects of students, are articulated in the Community Creed.
The Vanderbilt Community Creed
The Community Creed is a student-initiated statement of the values to which the Vanderbilt community aspires. Individuals who join this community embark on a lifelong journey toward greater intellectual enlightenment and personal growth. By fostering the Creed’s principles, we anchor ourselves to the University’s enduring tradition of excellence, united by a common set of values:
Academic
We strive to pursue intellectual knowledge with curiosity and humility. We engage in a partnership of learning and discovery, where the scholarly exploration of ideas is not only protected, but encouraged.
Neighborly
We strive to be ambassadors of goodwill within our campus and beyond. We serve, uplift, and empower the members of our global neighborhood.
Courageous
We strive to be courageous, acting with bold authenticity. We embrace taking risks, challenging assumptions, and persevering in the face of adversity.
Honest
We strive for honesty in our academic endeavors and relationships with others. We commit to integrity and accountability across all aspects of life—personally, professionally, and academically.
Open
We strive to openly engage with ideas, experiences, and with one another. We welcome every background and story through celebration of the diversity that enriches our common experience and active participation in constructive conversations about our differences.
Respectful
We strive to promote a culture of civility grounded in equity, inclusivity, and respect. We hold each other’s passions and perspectives in high regard, endeavoring to live a life of personal growth and service.
Student Accountability, Community Standards & Academic Integrity
Student Accountability, Community Standards & Academic Integrity promotes good citizenship within the Vanderbilt University community through education. Students are expected to respect themselves and others, to act responsibly, and to be accountable for their actions. The student accountability system addresses student violations of University policy through fair, consistent, and confidential procedures.