The Honor Code

Founded in 1842, the Honor System is one of the University of Virginia's most cherished institutions. Based on the principle that University students want to be trusted, and to be able to trust their peers, it helps create and strengthen a "Community of Trust."

Semester at Sea (SAS) participants are considered U.Va. students for Honor Code purposes, from their arrival at the ship through their completion of the voyage and the SAS required coursework, whether primarily enrolled and seeking a degree at U.Va. or at another institution. They are therefore expected to uphold the Honor Code, and their commitment not to lie, cheat or steal extends to conduct at sea, in port, or anywhere they represent themself as a University student or a Semester at Sea participant.

Because all SAS students have made this commitment to personal honor, they are presumed by their peers, faculty members, administrators, and community residents, alike, to act honorably, until proven otherwise.

U.Va. Honor Code

Whether at sea, in port, traveling, or on a field trip, SAS students are committed:

• To not lie
• To not cheat
• To not steal

Due to the unique nature of the Semester at Sea Program, the Honor Committee's procedures have been slightly modified in respect to SAS participants. Learn more about how the Honor Code is implemented in Chapter 3 of the Voyager's Handbook on our website.