Ethical Use of Generative AI

Statement on Ethical Use of AI for thesis/dissertation work, capstones, and comprehensive exams

The use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) can support innovative and creative scholarship when used within appropriate guidelines, which may vary by discipline. It is vital that students uphold the core principles of academic and research integrity. As such, transparency around the usage of generative AI is required between the student, their committee and school/department, as well as the student and the audience of their completed thesis/dissertation, capstone, and/or comprehensive exams. Students need to take responsibility for their work, including using their own words and proper citations.

All use of generative AI in the thesis/dissertation/capstone/comprehensive exam process must be disclosed to the student’s committee by the student. Generative AI use should be verified to be within the standards of the discipline and school/department by the student and the student’s committee. Unauthorized use of generative AI may be considered a violation of Policy 1.8 Integrity in Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activities. Usage of generative AI must be appropriately cited following the guidelines of the style manual used by your discipline.

While these guidelines serve as the Graduate School’s position on the use of generative AI in the thesis/dissertation/capstone/comprehensive exam process, individual schools/departments may have additional policies, guidance, or restrictions. It is the student’s responsibility to understand and follow these standards and contact their school/department or the Graduate School with any questions or concerns. As generative AI is relatively new and evolving, additional or more detailed guidance may be issued in the future.