It is the expectation of HBS that all students, whether or not they are on campus or are currently enrolled as degree candidates, will behave in a mature and responsible manner. This expectation for mature and responsible conduct also encompasses accountability for one’s own well-being, including responsible decision-making regarding physical and mental health. Further, HBS expects every student to be familiar with the regulations governing membership in the Harvard community set forth in this Handbook. HBS generally expects: regular and timely attendance and timely attendance and participation in all HBS course, program and other required activities; respectful, attentive behavior within and outside courses; appropriate conduct, judgment and tact in all personal and professional situations; effective and timely communication with all members of the Harvard community; appropriate judgment in responding to unethical, unprofessional or dangerous behavior on the part of others; respecting and respectful behavior regarding the privacy of all members of the Harvard community; and maintaining appropriate boundaries when dealing with others at HBS, including, for example, in regard to educator/student relationships. In addition, students may not provide false information to university officials or disrupt or obstruct teaching, research or other University activities, nor may they engage in any form of: physical violence or abuse; hazing; sexual misconduct; harassment, coercion or other conduct that threatens the health or safety of any person; threats involving deadly weapons, explosives, bombs, chemical or biological agents, or other deadly devices; theft, misappropriation, or unauthorized use of, destruction of, or damage to property; violation of published university rules or federal state or local law on University premises or at University-sponsored activities; and misuse of library or computer facilities. Illegal, unethical or other inappropriate behavior that is engaged in by a student outside of the HBS community also may be considered, and discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin, age, ancestry, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected basis is prohibited. Because students are expected to show good judgment and use common sense at all times, not all kinds of misconduct or behavioral standards are codified here.
Students are expected to comply with all disciplinary rules from matriculation until the conferring of the degree. A degree will not be granted to a student who is not in good standing or against whom a disciplinary charge is pending, either with HBS or with the disciplinary board of another school.