Academic Freedom and Academic Responsibility

Policy number: 
06.035
Policy description: 

The University of North Texas (UNT) exists for the common good. The common good depends upon the free search for truth and its free expression. Academic freedom is essential to these purposes and applies to both teaching and research. Freedom in research is fundamental to the advancement of truth. Academic freedom in its teaching aspect is fundamental for the protection of the rights of the faculty member in teaching and of the student to freedom in learning.

Academic freedom carries with it special responsibilities correlative with rights. Faculty have the academic responsibility to subject their knowledge and postulates to rigorous review by peers who are experts in the relevant subject material, to have a firm foundation of their postulates in the most relevant and suitable available evidence, and to work with one another to provide the best education possible for our students.

Policy owner: VP for Academic Affairs
Policy contact: 
Angie Cartwright
Asst. Vice Provost, Faculty Success
Faculty Success
Applies to: 
Faculty
Date Issued: 
Monday, September 23, 2013
References: 

Last updated: 

Date: 
10/08/2021
Action: 
Revision
Comments: 
Revision updated the Policy Statement and added definitions to assist with policy clarity. Added language to specify the duty to promote diversity and inclusion and freedom of expression.
Date: 
10/31/2014
Action: 
Revision
Comments: 
The passage on stewardship of resources has been consolidated into once sentence. Effective 10/31/2014.
Date: 
09/23/2013
Action: 
New Policy
Comments: 
Created for clarification and separation from the tenure and promotion policy. Effective 9/23/2013.