Updated: December 1, 2024

The Student Code of Conduct ("Code of Conduct") applies to all students at Bayan Islamic Graduate School. Standards of conduct and disciplinary procedures can be found in the relevant sections. No single policy or group of policies can anticipate every eventuality. Accordingly, Bayan expressly reserves the right to revise, supplement or withdraw any policy or portion of a policy, included in the Code of Conduct, as it deems necessary.

General Conduct Expectations

In alignment with Bayan Islamic Graduate School's mission to provide a faith-based education rooted in Islamic principles, all members of the Bayan community are expected to respect the teachings of Islam and the diverse traditions within our faith. Furthermore, students will uphold the highest standards of personal honor, morality, and integrity. The institution reserves the right to refuse admission to or dismiss any individual who violates these principles, ensuring that our community remains a place of trust and upright  conduct.

On and Off-Campus Activities

Students' rights and freedoms in off-campus settings come with the responsibility to exhibit conduct and behavior that adhere to Islamic etiquettes (adaab) and reflect positively on themselves, Bayan Islamic Graduate School, and the broader community. While the school is not responsible for students’ off-campus events or behavior, it reserves the right to take disciplinary action in response to conduct that violates school expectations and policies, or that adversely impacts the Bayan community and its objectives. Students living off campus during hybrid intensives are expected to be positive representatives of our values, adhering to all applicable laws, ordinances, and community regulations.

Reporting Misconduct

Any individual may confidentially report a violation of the Code of Conduct by submitting a written statement to support@bayanonline.org. This report should include a 1–2-page description of the alleged violation and must be submitted within 30 days of the incident. The institution reserves the right to take disciplinary action for any violation of the Code of Conduct, regardless of how much time has elapsed since the occurrence, should the allegations hold merit.

Reports of discrimination, harassment, bullying or other non-academic grievances against faculty, staff, or third parties should be directed to the dean’s office of the student’s respective school, including any partner institutions affiliated with Bayan.

Accepted Sources of Information

Information regarding a student's misconduct may be obtained from a variety of vetted and credible sources, including but not limited to reports from faculty, staff, and students, as well as law enforcement agencies and community members. Additional sources may include electronic communications, photographs, social media, and audio or video recordings received from vetted and credible sources. All information will be evaluated in light of our commitment to upholding the principles of justice and integrity within the Bayan community.

Definition of Student

The term "Student" encompasses any individual associated with Bayan Islamic Graduate School, including those applying for admission, currently enrolled graduate students, individuals who have completed their most recent term and are eligible for re-enrollment, those on an approved educational or other leave, individuals currently under suspension or expulsion, and those awaiting their degree. This encompasses degree-seeking students, certificate students, students at large, and auditors. This definition applies during the period leading up to the start of classes, throughout the duration of classes, between academic terms, and during approved leave. This Policy also applies if a student withdraws from the institution while a disciplinary issue is still pending.

Standards of Evidence

Decisions regarding violations of the Code of Conduct will be based on the preponderance of the evidence standard, meaning it must be determined whether it is more likely than not that the student committed the violation.

Authority and Responsibility for Student Discipline

The Dean of Students at Bayan Islamic Graduate School is responsible for the overall coordination of the rules and regulations concerning student discipline related to misconduct and serves as the final authority for appeals regarding disciplinary decisions. The Vice President is primarily responsible for managing the operational aspects of the disciplinary process. The Vice President will review all reports of misconduct and may coordinate any necessary follow-up investigations with the Campus Security Personnel. If the Vice President determines that the reported facts, if proven true, would constitute a violation of the  Code of Conduct, the student will be charged accordingly, and the matter will be addressed through either an administrative hearing or a hearing with the Student Disciplinary Committee. When appropriate, certain policy violations may also be handled by other disciplinary bodies, including committees or boards that oversee academic misconduct.

Jurisdiction of the Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct applies to behavior that takes place on Bayan Islamic Graduate School premises (i.e. where classes and/or programs are conducted), during School-sponsored activities, and to off-campus conduct that negatively impacts the School community and its objectives. The Dean of Students will determine, on a case-by-case basis and at their sole discretion, whether the Code of Conduct applies to off-campus conduct.

Violation of Law and School Discipline

Disciplinary actions may be initiated against a student who is charged with violating the law. These proceedings can occur before, during, or after any civil or criminal legal processes.

Interim Restriction

The Vice President or the Dean of Students, or their designee, may impose an interim restriction on a student at any time after receiving a report. This restriction may be institution-wide or specific to access to the facilities of the host institution during hybrid intensive periods and is implemented: 1) to ensure the safety and well-being of members of the Bayan community or to protect the property of the host institution; or 2) if the student poses a clear threat of disrupting or interfering with the normal operations of the academic program. During this interim restriction, the student may be denied access to the host institution's facilities and any classes conducted there.

The interim restriction is separate from the regular disciplinary process, which will continue as outlined in this Policy, including any necessary appeals. An interim restriction may impact a student’s time to degree completion, as in-person attendance for hybrid intensive courses is required. A student placed under interim restriction may appeal the decision by contacting the Vice President if the Dean of Students made the decision, or the Dean of Students if the Vice President issued the restriction.

Standards of Conduct

Standards of Conduct for Bayan Islamic Graduate School

Bayan Islamic Graduate School seeks to create a world that understands Islam and its values in a modern context. As such, Bayan is focused on maintaining a learning environment that is consistent with the ideals and principles of Islam. All Bayan students, including those who are not Muslim, are required upon enrollment and abide by this Code of Conduct.

It is expected that all students will maintain the highest standards of personal ethics, honor, morality, and integrity, consistent with the principles and adaab of Islam. Bayan reserves the right to deny admission or dismiss any person who violates these principles.

Bayan’s Code of Conduct shall apply to conduct that occurs on campus and in the classroom (in-person or on campus), at Bayan-sanctioned or sponsored activities, and to off-campus conduct that adversely affects the Bayan community, Bayan’s reputation, and/or the pursuit of its mission. Each student shall be responsible for his/her conduct from the time of application for admission through the actual conferring of a degree, even though conduct may occur before classes begin or after classes end, as well as during the academic year and during periods between terms of actual enrollment (and even if their conduct is not discovered until after a degree is awarded). The Code of Conduct shall apply to a student’s conduct even if the student withdraws from Bayan while a disciplinary matter is pending. All conduct that occurs off campus that violates any portion of the Code of Conduct will be subject to Bayan Student Conduct Committee review.

Although not exhaustive, the following list includes examples of serious violations of Bayan’s Code of Conduct:

1. Willful Undermining of the Principles of Islam.
2. Disruptive or Dysfunctional Behaviors.
   Conduct that may compromise the educational environment or the health and safety of others.
3. Dishonesty in Any Form.
   This includes theft, fraud, cheating, plagiarism, and furnishing false information.
4. Academic Dishonesty.
   Plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, and facilitating academic dishonesty.
5. Harassment.
   Based on personal characteristics such as sex, sexual orientation, race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, and any legally protected characteristic.
6. Disparagement.
   Taking actions that disparage or negatively impact Bayan's mission or the reputation of the institution, or those of Bayan students, faculty, alumni, or staff.  
7. Violation of Any School Policy or Encouraging Others To Violate School Policies
   Failing to abide by school policies, rules, or regulations; or encouraging others to do so.
8. Unauthorized Use of Bayan’s Name or Facilities.
   For purposes or events that are not consistent with this Code of Conduct and Bayan’s mission.
9. Physical Abuse or Assault.
   Including domestic or relationship violence.
10. Sexual Misconduct.
    Including nonconsensual sexual contact, penetration, exploitation, and harassment.
11. Verbal and Written Disrespect.
    Threatening, intimidating, harassing, coercing, bullying or stalking behavior that endangers the health or safety of any person.
12. Obstruction or Disruption of Activities.
    Teaching, research, administration, or other Bayan activities.
13. Prohibited Substances.
    On-campus use, possession, or distribution of tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs, or misused prescription drugs.
14. Weapons Policy.
    Firearms, explosives, and other weapons are not allowed on campus or at any Bayan-sponsored function.
15. Vandalism.
    Attempted or actual damage to property, including impermanent disfigurement (ex. spray paint, garbage, etc.).
16. Misuse of Emergency Equipment.
    Deliberate misuse of fire alarms or emergency protocols.
17. Gambling.
    Gambling in any form is not permitted.
18. Conviction by Law Enforcement.
    For violations of federal, state, or local law that affect Bayan’s mission and reputation.
19. Failure to Comply with Directives.
    Not following written or verbal directives from Bayan officials and/or law enforcement.
20. Soliciting Media Without Approval.
    Inviting reporters or observers to campus without prior approval.
21. Unauthorized Use of Electronic Devices.
    Capturing images or recordings of individuals without consent.
22. Activities Causing Safety Hazards.
    Locking/unlocking doors without authorization, inappropriate entry through windows, triggering alarms when not justified, failing to clean up spills, throwing objects, etc.
23. Obscenity and Lewd Behavior.
    Exhibition, possession, or distribution of material deemed obscene or contrary to Islamic values. Verbal abuse and use of obscene language.
24. Participation in Non-Recognized Organizations.
    Engaging in activities with organizations that have lost recognition or legitimacy.
25. Failure to Uphold Code of Ethics.
    Not adhering to Bayan's Code of Ethics in engagements with external stakeholders.

Disciplinary Procedures

Philosophy of Student Discipline at Bayan

The disciplinary process at Bayan Islamic Graduate School is educational in nature, aimed at fostering individual responsibility and respect for others' rights. Disciplinary sanctions are intended to encourage self-discipline and protect the community's rights and safety.

Bayan has the authority to establish conduct codes and can suspend or dismiss students whose actions harm the campus community. Disciplinary proceedings differ from criminal court; they are designed to determine the truth fairly, though they may be informal for less serious violations.

When serious violations could lead to suspension or dismissal, students will have the chance to present their case before a Student Disciplinary Committee. For minor violations, issues may be resolved with a warning or an administrative hearing. Students will always be informed of the alleged violations and allowed to respond.

Honor Code

Preamble: Bayan Islamic Graduate School is committed to upholding the principles of integrity and respect that reflect Islamic values. While we acknowledge the Honor Code of our partner institution, in cases where conflicts arise between their policies and Islamic etiquettes, Bayan's internal policies will take precedence. This ensures that our commitment to Islamic principles remains at the forefront of our community standards.

Bayan Islamic Graduate School Honor Code

At Bayan Islamic Graduate School, we are committed to upholding the principles of integrity, respect, and accountability, reflective of Islamic values. Our Honor Code guides our academic and personal conduct, fostering a community of trust and excellence.

Principles of the Honor Code

Bayan Islamic Graduate School's approach to teaching the Islamic tradition is rooted in a broad, pluralistic understanding that has been accepted by the global Muslim community. Our educational programs aim to provide a general orientation to Islamic teachings and methodologies relevant to various fields, rather than solely producing scholars in traditional disciplines. We recognize the historic diversity of opinions within Islam while adhering to what is authentically accepted by our community. Bayan welcomes diversity of thought within these strands of the tradition and emphasizes that the classroom is a space for intellectual engagement and dialogue, not for proselytization or disputation among students.

Bayan defines the Islamic tradition as the body of knowledge and methodology originating from the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and developed by subsequent scholars to preserve and transmit God’s final revelation. The Qur'an and Sunnah serve as the primary sources, with various traditional sciences—such as aqeedah, fiqh, tasawwuf, tafsir, and hadith—cultivated to maintain fidelity to Islamic teachings over time.

You can read more regarding "The Bayan Approach" here.

1. Integrity: I will act honestly in all academic endeavors, avoiding any form of dishonesty, including cheating, plagiarism, and falsification of information.

2. Respect: I will treat all members of the Bayan community—students, faculty, and staff—with kindness, graciousness, and forgiveness. I will also show respect for authority and those who represent knowledge.

3. Accountability: I acknowledge my responsibility for my actions and will hold myself accountable to the standards set forth in this Honor Code.

4. Academic Rigor: I will maintain rigor in my arguments and discussions, ensuring that I approach academic discourse thoughtfully and respectfully, avoiding overbearing or malicious behavior.

5. Decorum: I will conduct myself in a decent, well-mannered, and decorous manner, contributing to a positive learning environment.

6. Restricted Areas: I will respect campus security by not entering restricted areas without permission and by adhering to all security procedures.

7. Sustainability: I will support Bayan's commitment to sustainability by minimizing waste and engaging in practices that promote environmental stewardship.

8. Community Engagement: I will contribute positively to the Bayan community, promoting a culture of support and cooperation among peers.

9. Reporting Violations: I will report any observed violations of this Honor Code to the appropriate authorities, ensuring that our community remains a space of trust and integrity.

Commitment

By enrolling at Bayan Islamic Graduate School, I pledge to uphold this Honor Code and overall Code of Conduct in all my academic and personal conduct, understanding that violations may result in disciplinary action. I recognize that my actions reflect not only on myself but also on the broader Bayan community and its mission to embody the values of Islam in a contemporary context.