If you have been called to a plagiarism panel or you're worried about plagiarism, our advice service can help.

Cheating and plagiarism are regarded by the University to be substantial academic irregularities. This means that anything defined by the University to be plagiarism is dealt with under the University's Code of Discipline for students.

Being asked to attend a Plagiarism panel can be extremely stressful for a student. We can arrange to accompany you to the meeting and ensure that you make the best possible defence. In order to be accompanied you need to speak to an advice worker.

Student Responsibilities

Students have the responsibility to:

1. Familiarise themselves with the University's definition of plagiarism (copying someone else's work, either deliberately or accidentally, and attempting to pass it as your own)
2. Adhere to the University's guidelines on acceptable academic practice in terms of Citations and Referencing
3. To be aware of the consequences of academic misconduct in relation to plagiarism.

Academic irregularity is a serious issue and can have significant consequences on your academic career.

Types of Plagiarism

The University has two types of plagiarism - Minor and Major.

Minor infractions, are usually ones in which the student has accidentally copied or partly copied the work of another person, without properly citing it. Minor cases usually result in the student being made to re-submit the work, with a capped mark of 40%.

Major infractions, are usually cases in which the student has taken deliberate steps to copy someone elses work in order to pass it off as their own. Major cases normally result in a severe consequences, and it is not unknown for students to be suspended from their course, or even expelled.

What to do if you've been invited to a plagiarism panel

Sometimes, there can be mitigating circumstances which can reduce the consequence awarded for each infraction. It is best to contact your Union advive workers immediately by sending an email to advice@uwsunion.org.uk, if you have received an invitation to a plagiarism panel.