Code of Conduct
The University of Tennessee is committed to facilitating a workplace culture that promotes responsible and ethical behavior.
The unethical behavior of just one employee can detract from the excellent contributions of thousands. For this reason, it is of the utmost importance that compliance with rules and regulations and respect for fellow employees are taken seriously and infractions are reported promptly to appropriate officials.
UT’s code of conduct, effective July 1, 2012, is intended to assist employees and their departments in creating a responsible and ethical workplace. It outlines the basic expectations for employees, directs them to policy requirements and training resources and provides instructions for reporting concerns and violations.

“To help ensure that we are serving Tennesseans and beyond through the discovery, communication and application of knowledge, our university must be devoted to advocating responsible and ethical behavior in all that we do.”
UT President Randy Boyd
Objective
To provide employees of the University of Tennessee with guidance on how to conduct themselves in an ethical and responsible manner.
Policy
The Code of Conduct was developed to supplement and clarify existing university policies, procedures, and rules. It does not replace, limit, or otherwise alter any existing policies. Employees are expected to familiarize themselves with the Code and to abide by it. Employees who violate the Code will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Employees should direct specific ethical or compliance questions to their supervisor or the university’s director of compliance. The university’s Code of Conduct is comprised of 1) general principles and statements of ethical and responsible conduct and 2) specific examples of prohibited conduct.
Training
Code of Conduct via K@TE
General Principles and Statements
- Ethical and Responsible Conduct
- Responsible Reporting of Suspected Violations
- Respect for Others
- Avoiding Conflicts of Interest
- Responsible Use of University Resources
- Responsible Conduct in Research
- Commitment to Environmental Health and Safety
- Responsible Use and Protection of Confidential Information
Specific Examples of Prohibited Conduct
- Respect for Persons
- Respect for Property
- Standards of Safety
- Compliance with Laws and University Policies
- Work Performance
- Standards of Attendance