Student Handbook

Updated in March 2023

1. Introduction

Dear student,

Welcome to Webster Vienna Private University (WVPU)!

As members of our university community your deeds reflect upon its reputation. Therefore, we have compiled this Student Handbook to serve as your guide to the principles, policies and procedures that apply to all students enrolled at WVPU. It begins with the two most important sets of policies of which you need to know and adhere. These are the WVPU Code of Conduct and Academic Policies. It then lays out important policies regarding privacy and safety and concludes with a section on frequently asked questions (FAQs).

Given the modern digital age in which we live, the WVPU Student Handbook is compiled as an electronic document with embedded links to the website or to Connections, the university’s intranet. Where meaningful, we include abstracts and introductory texts to key linked documents. Please make sure that you follow those links and fully understand policies and procedures found within them. WVPU reviews and updates its policies on a regular, usually annual basis. You will find, therefore, the most up-to-date policies online in the links provided within this document. Please make sure to refer to the current website and Intranet for the most current information.

Finally, please note that this WVPU Student Handbook references policy documents pertaining specifically to students of WVPU, i.e. those enrolled in WVPU degree programs or visiting on campus, as well as a broader set of policies pertaining to students of Webster University worldwide. Importantly, WVPU specific policies have statutory authority in Austria. Thus, we expect students to follow all Webster University policies, regardless of their origin, but to recognize that, where differences exist, those of WVPU take precedence.

On behalf of the entire Webster university community, we welcome you and wish you success in your studies.

Prof. Dr. Johannes Pollak, Rector and
Dr. Samuel R. Schubert, Associate Director

2. Academic Policies

Academic policies are designed to provide the highest-quality education and service to students. Our policies are based on both the American and Austrian education systems. General baseline policies may be found in the WVPU Student Handbook and the undergraduate and graduate catalogs. Supplemental Austrian policies† may be found in the Webster Vienna Private University (WVPU) Constitution, the Study and Examination Guidelines of Webster Vienna Private University, and WVPU Thesis Guidelines for Students.

* Please note that this page contains the most up-to-date policies applicable to WVPU students and is periodically reviewed and updated (last update: September 2021). Because WVPU academic policies are subject to change, one should refer to the current website for the most current information.

† In accordance with local accreditation laws and requirements, all WVPU specific policies have statutory authority.

Topics of Interest

Students who plan to withdraw completely from WVPU or take a leave of absence lasting more than one semester must complete the Leave of Absence and Withdrawal Form. Students must also inform their advisors, ensure that all outstanding fees are paid and all library books are returned. A failure to do so could result in WVPU withholding transcripts and other official documents.

See the WVPU Code of Conduct, as well as the Academic Honesty section of the Extended Campus Code of Conduct in the WU Student Handbook.

Specific rules may apply in Austria with regard to student visas and their extension. See the Academic Load and Student Classification sections of the undergraduate catalog or the Course Load Guidelines section of the graduate catalog.

Students can take a maximum number of ECTS in any given semester or term. If they wish to exceed this limit, they need to seek permission for the academic overload from the Office of the Director. More information on procedures to request permission for the academic overload is available in the Connections portal (requires login).

Students are expected to maintain a minimum GPA. WVPU policies on academic probation and dismissal for undergraduate and graduate students can be found in the Connections portal (requires login).

According to the WVPU Add, Drop and Withdrawal policy, course withdrawals are allowed up to and including week six of term courses and week nine of semester courses. In the case of documented extenuating circumstances, students may request a late withdrawal, by submitting the Late Withdrawal Request Form (PDF) to the Academic Services Officer (ASO), Ms. Maida Kojic-McAndrew. The decision requires approval of the Office of the Director.

See sections 4.7 and 4.8 of the Study and Examination Guidelines of Webster Vienna Private University.

The instructor sets attendance requirements and students are expected to actively participate in all of their scheduled courses. See the respective attendance sections of the undergraduate and graduate catalogs. Students who do not attend the first session of any course and do not communicate their absence to the instructor prior to the first session will be automatically dropped from the course to free up space for those desiring to register for that course.

WVPU offers the possibility to alumni, corporate partners and current students to audit selected undergraduate and graduate courses. WVPU’s audit policy is specific for courses taught at WVPU, limited to WVPU alumni, corporate partners and current students and is separate from Webster University’s Audit for Enrichment program.

Alumni, corporate partners and current students may audit classes following the fulfillment of certain conditions.

WVPU offers the possibility to alumni, corporate partners and current students to audit selected courses within the following framework:

Audits are never for credit.
Audits will not be registered as part of an official transcript.
The opportunity to audit a class is subject to: availability, and approval of the faculty teaching the course.
Attendance and participation are required.
Professors are not obliged to provide a formal assessment (grades) on assignments or the course.
Language courses may not be audited.

In order to audit a course, alumni, corporate partners and current students must follow procedures specific to their status as follows:

Alumni

WVPU offers alumni the opportunity to audit courses for non-credit through the Alumni Audit Program. The first audited course is free of charge as a gift for successfully completing a degree at WVPU. Alumni are welcome to register for additional courses for a fee of 250 euros. This offer extends to Webster Vienna classes only and registration is based on availability in the class. Please note that textbooks and/or lab fees are not included in this offer. Contact the Alumni Audit Program with any further questions.

To register for classes through the Alumni Audit Program, please complete the Audit Registration Form and submit it online. For further questions, contact: alumni@webster.ac.at.

Textbooks for the courses are available through the Webster Vienna Textbook Services. If you opt to purchase textbooks through Webster Vienna or if this is not your first Webster Vienna Alumni Audit, payment may be processed either through direct bank transfer to Webster Vienna Private University (payment forms available via finance.students@wesbter.ac.at).
Webster Vienna Private University Bank Connection:

Erste Bank, Graben 21, 1010 Vienna, Austria IBAN: AT47 2011 1310 0310 1197, BIC/SWIFT: GIBAATWW

Corporate Partners

Requests from corporate partners are handled by the Office of the Director. Interested parties should complete the Audit Registration Form and submit it online. Corporate partners are entitled to audit courses at no cost as part of their partnerships. For questions, please contact office.rector@webster.ac.at.

Current Students

Requests from students are handled by the Academic Services Office. Students interested in auditing courses should fill out the Audit Registration Form and submit it online. Current students are entitled to audit courses at no cost.

As of May, 2021.

To preserve the integrity of its academic standards and degrees, Webster Vienna Private University reserves the right to revoke a conferred degree earned through academic misconduct or fraud, or in case the degree was conferred erroneously due to administrative error. WVPU’s Degree Revocation Policy outlines the procedure and circumstances whereby a previously granted WVPU degree may be revoked. This policy pertains exclusively to degrees granted by Webster Vienna Private University, accredited by the Agency for Quality Assurance and Accreditation Austria, and not to those degrees conferred by Webster University.

Revocation due to Academic Misconduct

In accordance with §89 of the University Act 2002, WVPU may revoke a previously conferred Academic Degree when it was obtained thorough serious academic misconduct or fraud. Examples of serious academic misconduct include, but are not limited to, providing false information on an application for admission, cheating on an examination, plagiarism or research misconduct while enrolled in a degree program.

The University Senate is responsible for handling and deciding upon degree revocation cases related to academic misconduct in accordance with the procedures outlined below.

Anyone with information regarding academic misconduct or fraud related to a previously earned academic degree should refer it to the University Senate. Upon receipt of credible information, and assuming the Senate agrees by simple majority vote that the accusation merits further investigation, the University Senate shall form an investigative committee composed of the respective Department Head, an appointed faculty member, and the former advisor of the student (if still employed at Webster) or, in case the advisor is no longer at the University, a senior permanent faculty member covering core subject areas of the respective program.

The investigative committee will review the evidence within thirty days. If it finds by simple majority vote that the allegations are legitimately founded it will recommend a hearing. If the committee finds that the evidence does not support the allegations, no further action will be taken.

If the committee recommends a hearing, the individual suspected of prior academic misconduct will receive a statement detailing the allegations and copies of any evidence relating to the allegations from the Office of the Director. The individual will have 30 days to respond and will have the option of providing a written statement addressing the allegations in addition to attending the formal hearing. If the individual chooses not to respond within 30 days or attend the hearing, a decision will be made without the individual’s input.

At the hearing, the investigative committee will present the allegations, evidence and any written response from the individual suspected of misconduct. The individual, if present, can address the allegations. The University Senate will then vote on revoking the degree by a simple majority decision. This decision is final and cannot be appealed.

When the Senate decides to revoke a degree, WVPU’s Academic Services Office will send letters to venues that received copies of the original degree to show that WVPU revoked the individual’s degree.

Revocation due to Administrative Error

WVPU’s Academic Services office oversees a systematic process for determining degree eligibility, which includes a confirmation from both the student and the Department Head overseeing the respective degree program that the student concerned successfully met all program requirements.

In the rare event that a student was approved for a degree in error, such as when a student did not meet all the degree requirements and thus did not earn the degree but received approval in error or when a student was conferred the wrong degree, the Academic Services Office or the respective Department Head will submit a degree revocation request to the Office of the Director. The Director and Associate Director will review if the student met all degree requirements.

If the wrong degree has been conferred, the degree will be revoked and a new degree will be issued. If the student did not complete all requirements, the Director and Associate Director will decide on the next steps, which may include the revocation of the degree or allowance for the student to finish any remaining degree requirements within a set time period.

Students are requested to communicate with faculty and staff via the respective faculty or staff members’ official email address, of which two official domains (webster.edu and webster.ac.at) are valid. See Candidate/Connections/Email Accounts sections of the undergraduate and graduate catalogs for setting up official student accounts.

The rescheduling of exams is the responsibility of the respective academic department head. See sections 5.3 and 5.4 of the Study and Examination Guidelines of Webster Vienna Private University.

Grading Appeals

See section 3, Course assessment appeals, of the Study and Examination Guidelines of Webster Vienna Private University. If a solution cannot be found in consultation with the instructor or subsequently, the respective department head within a three-month period, students may email a formal appeal to the Examination Committee. The student is expected to provide all the necessary materials (graded work, term papers, etc.), as well as the reasons for the appeal, in writing to the committee. After receiving this material, the committee will render a decision and inform the student within a matter of four weeks.

Grading Standards

See section 6, Grading standards of Webster University and their Austrian equivalents, of the Study and Examination Guidelines of Webster Vienna Private University.

Incomplete (I) Grades and Late Work

Incomplete grades negatively affect your academic progress, course sequencing, retention and graduation plans and should be avoided. Incompletes are only applied when you have completed most of the required coursework and have agreed to deliver the remaining components in a short and manageable timeline. Under no circumstances may the deadline exceed three months. After three months, any remaining I grades will be converted to a failing degree (ZF).

As a matter of fairness and equality, all students are required to turn in all missing work no later than the last week of the semester. Instructors will not award Incompletes in lieu of earning failing grades. If you have not provided enough coursework to pass the course by the grading deadline, instructors will assign a grade of F and not an Incomplete. If you have delivered only partial work, you will be given the grade that you earned so far according to the same scale as all other students in the class.

All undergraduates, regardless of major, are required to successfully complete the Research Methods Roadmap.

Research Methods Roadmap

The Methods Road Map (MRM) is a checklist of four compulsory and sequential undergraduate methods and research design courses (24 ECTS). The MRM encourages student growth in the area of research-focused writing and it underscores the importance of formulating research questions, constructing research designs, distinguishing among methodological approaches and choosing appropriate methods whether qualitative or quantitative to address them.

Undergraduates take four MRM courses over their first six semesters, establishing a basis for more advanced method or tool-specific courses as they progress toward their thesis project. It ensures that all students are properly prepared to undertake a thesis project and graduate with the requisite scholarly research skills requisite for an European Qualifications Framework (EQF) an Austrian National Qualification Framework (NQF) Level VI qualification. Two MRM courses are included within the common Core Module (12 ECTS) and the remaining discipline-specific courses are part of module 2 of the different undergraduate degree programs.

MRM Courses included in the Common Core Module (12 ECTS):

GLBC 1200 Global Cornerstone Seminar: Scientific Reasoning and Society (6 ECTS)
STAT 1100 Descriptive Statistics (6 ECTS)

MRM Courses that are included in Module 2 of the different degree programs (12 ECTS):

Bachelor of Arts in International Relations: Module 2
- ANSO 2720 Introduction to Measurement and Statistics
- INTL 2700 Methods of Political Inquiry
Bachelor of Science in Psychology: Module 2
- PSYC 2750 Introduction to Measurement and Statistics (6 ECTS)
- PSYC 2825 Introduction to Research Methods (6 ECTS)
Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communication: Module 2
- ANSO 2720 Introduction to Measurement and Statistic
- MDST 4200 Media Research
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration: Module 2
- BUSN 2750 Introduction to Statistics (6 ECTS)
- BUSN 2825 Introduction to Research Design and Methods (6 ECTS)

The Webster Vienna Private University (WVPU) Code of Conduct provides guidance and sets the baseline for the standards of ethical behavior of all WVPU community members. Rooted in the notions of honesty, integrity and respect, it covers matters of academic performance, interpersonal communication, behavioral and professional integrity and responsibility and conflicts of interest.

All students, regardless of degree, are required to successfully complete a thesis, which is the culminating project of their university studies. Detailed information for those who are planning, researching or writing their theses can be found in Connections (requires login). Please see our WVPU Thesis Guidelines. Discover more information on the thesis process, content and minimum standards.

For all information related to tuition payments, see Financial Information.

3. Code of Conduct and Related Procedures

The WVPU Code of Conduct applies to all university employees, students and contractors whose conduct should be in accordance with university regulations and applicable laws. It is the responsibility of every member of the community to familiarize one’s self with relevant policies and guidelines. Noncompliance with this Code may result in sanctions.

Faculty and students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic honesty and integrity and familiarize themselves the WVPU’s Academic Policies. The university does not tolerate acts of cheating, plagiarism, fabrication or the facilitation thereof.

All communication must be conducted with respect to the values of the WVPU community and the cultural sensitivities of its members by avoiding:

National, racial, ethnic or religious slurs
Words of discrimination or gender bias
Intimidation, insults or innuendo
Ad hominem attacks toward any individual

While the university respects the right of all individuals to peaceful, lawful exercise of free speech, it will not tolerate conduct that endangers the health and safety of others or incites violence.

All behavior must be conducted with respect to the values of the WVPU community and the cultural sensitivities of its members. Members of the WVPU community are expected to respect the dignity of others. This expectation of respectful behavior includes conduct outside the workplace or classroom.

Members of the WVPU community are expected to conduct themselves at all times with due regard to the interests and reputation of the university, both during and after their hours of employment.

The university is committed to providing an environment free of implicit and explicit harassment and coercive sexual behavior. Sexual harassment will not be tolerated at WVPU and may lead to sanctions under applicable laws.

Employees should carry out their duties free of bias and without unnecessary delay, particularly in matters that directly affect the progress of students and operations of the university.

Conflicts of interest are very common. Any person employed by the university needs to take special care not to expose themselves, their colleagues or the university to such conflicts by disclosing any and all relationships, transactions or dealings that may be interpreted as compromising one’s judgment or giving the appearance of unfair preference or personal gain.

Any employee that has a private or commercial relationship with another employee or student should recuse him/herself from any decision process involving the status of the other.

Among employees

While consensual relationships happen in the workplace, supervisor/subordinate relationships and relationships of a commercial nature heighten the need for disclosure. Employees entering into commercial or intimate relations with a subordinate should notify Human Resources as soon as possible in order to find a solution leading to relevant recusals or service providers.

Between employees and students

In general, university employees should eschew sexual relationships with students who they are required to assess or to whom provide support services due to the inherent power imbalances involved and potential for abuse and/or coercion. Private relationships with students, particularly those of a commercial or intimate nature, could call into question the objectivity of grading for faculty, damaging the reputation of both the student and the faculty member, and call into question the fair provision of services if with a member of the administrative staff.

When consensual relationships develop between faculty and student, the faculty member, not the student, must notify the Office of the Director and as soon as possible in order to eliminate any possible interpretation of bias. Actions to eliminate any conflicts of interest may include changes in teaching assignments, alternative assessors, or even changes to the student’s course selection, but in all cases will aim to remove the role of faculty to formally evaluate, assess or supervise the student.

Based on the principle of subsidiarity, conflicts should be resolved as close to the source of the conflict as possible. Parties to disputes should work to resolve conflicts in a respectful, objective and solution-oriented manner with the supervisor in charge, develop a solution that is transparent and fair to all parties.

The University is committed to using resources in an environmentally sustainable manner.

Employees and students should not utilize the material resources of the university or the efforts of its employees during working hours for purposes of personal use or commercial gain.

What To Do

Suspected breaches of the Code of Conduct can be addressed following the procedures outlined in the Conduct and Grievance Procedures. The University will not respond to anonymously reported cases. All cases will be handled with utmost confidentiality.

Conduct and Grievance Procedures

Sept. 15, 2021

WVPU’s Conduct and Grievance Procedures serve to support the university’s commitment to ethical behavior, rooted in honesty, integrity, and respect, as outlined in the university’s Code of Conduct. While we expect that mutual respect and goodwill will serve to resolve most disputes and complaints, WVPU’s procedures provide fair processes to evaluate and pursue possible breaches of the Code of Conduct and associated policies. A breach includes a failure to uphold WVPU’s standards of academic integrity, respectful interaction, and accountability as outlined in the Code of Conduct such as academic misconduct, discrimination, unfair treatment, bullying, or any form of harassment.

Three principal types of procedures are covered by this document: academic integrity, grievances, and student conduct. Academic integrity procedures serve to uphold the university’s high standards of academic integrity and are used in suspected cases of both faculty and student academic misconduct. The grievance procedures, including both formal and informal procedures for employees and students, provide a channel for resolving grievances as well as enabling employees and students to request an impartial review of actions taken that they consider unfair or as an impediment to the successful attainment of working, living, and learning at Webster Vienna Private University. The student conduct procedures enable the university to address student misconduct fairly and constructively to foster a safe, respectful and inclusive campus.

Following WVPU’s Code of Conduct, faculty and students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic honesty and integrity and familiarize themselves with WVPU’s academic policies. The university does not tolerate acts of academic misconduct or the facilitation thereof. Examples of academic misconduct include, but are not limited to, lying on applications, cheating on examinations, plagiarism, or research misconduct.

This policy outlines the procedures in place in the event of cases of WVPU student and faculty academic misconduct.

2.1. Procedures in cases of student academic misconduct

2.1.1. Procedures for faculty

If a faculty member determines a student has cheated, plagiarized, or committed any other act of academic misconduct within a course they may decide on an appropriate consequence, including the following options: issuing a failing grade on the assignment or issuing a failing grade to the student for the course. In addition, faculty are required to inform the respective department/ program head via email and copy it to a dedicated email address: cheat.report@webster.ac.at. These records can be called up as evidence in the case of a related assessment appeal (See §3 of the Study and Examination Guidelines for assessment appeal procedures). The following information must be included in the report: faculty and student name, ID, course information (prefix, number, title, and section), type of issue (cheating, plagiarism) and assignment (test/paper/project), percentage of grade, score issued, and how the matter was resolved.

A dishonesty violation may warrant consideration for dismissal, suspension, or other disciplinary action in serious or repeated cases. These cases are subject to a hearing by the Academic Honesty Board, as outlined below.

2.1.2. Academic Honesty Board

Purpose: The Academic Honesty Board hears cases involving charges of academic dishonesty.

Board Representation: The Academic Honesty Board consists of five members, including the Director or Associate Director, the head of the respective academic department, the student’s academic advisor, a student representative, and a representative of the senate. If the student’s academic advisor is also the Department Head then another faculty member shall be nominated by the Senate. In addition, any of the panel members made the initial or previous report of academic misconduct, then they shall recuse themselves from the panel and a replacement member shall be nominated by the Senate.

Initiation of Process: Cases are referred to the Academic Honesty Board by the Academic Department Heads or the Director or Associate Director. The Academic Honesty Board will be convened and organized by the Office of Academic Affairs.

Process: The Academic Services Office will notify the student in writing suspected of academic dishonesty of the hearing at least ten working days in advance. The Academic Services Office will also provide the student with a statement detailing the allegations and copies of any evidence relating to the allegations. The student will have the option of providing a written statement addressing the allegations in addition to attending the formal hearing. If the student does not respond or attend the hearing, a decision will be made without the individual’s input.

At the hearing, the Academic Honesty Board shall examine all relevant facts and circumstances, may ask the involved student questions (if present), and the student shall also have the opportunity to make a statement. The student may be accompanied at the hearing by a support person or advisor of choice (e.g., student, parent, faculty member, staff member, associate); however this person may not participate in the hearing or speak on his or her behalf.

The Academic Honesty Board decides by majority vote whether there was a violation of the Code of Conduct. If the Board determines there was a violation, they also determine by majority what sanctions should be applied, such as probation, suspension, or dismissal. All decisions are final and cannot be appealed.

Hearings are confidential and closed to all but the principals of the case. A summary of the hearing will be kept by the Academic Services Office and will be kept for 7 years any may be released in the event of any related legal proceedings.

2.2. Faculty Academic Integrity

2.2.1. Principles of Research Integrity

Webster Vienna Private University is committed to promoting and upholding basic principles of research integrity among its faculty. These include the following, as published by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research (BMBWF) ¹:

Independence means not allowing the choice of method, assessment of research data and materials, and the weight attributed to alternative statements nor the assessment of others’ research to be guided by political, economic, ideological, or similar factors. Independence therefore ensures the best possible objectivity and impartiality throughout the entire research process.
Honesty means ensuring impartiality throughout the entire research process, i.e., avoiding unfounded claims and promises, or refraining from presenting research results more favorably or unfavorably than they are.
Scrupulousness means applying methods in accordance with the state of the art (lege artis), developing and implementing research processes with great care, and reporting on the research in an appropriate form.
Transparency means ensuring that it is clear what data, materials, and methods the research was based on and how the results were achieved. The line of reasoning must be clear, and the individual steps in the research process must be verifiable. Transparency must also be ensured in terms of potential conflicts of interest, both of a financial or other nature.
Fairness means treating other researchers fairly and with respect throughout the entire research process. Fairness towards other researchers is especially important in the review processes and in the investigation of research misconduct.

2.2.2. Research Misconduct

In order to uphold the basic principles of research integrity, WVPU faculty (both adjunct and employed faculty) are expected to adhere to the Guidelines for Good Scientific Practice developed by the Austrian Agency For Research Integrity (ÖAWI).² The willful, conscious, or grossly negligent violations of the Standards of Good Scientific Practice as considered as research misconduct and shall not be tolerated.³

The following actions are in particular to be considered research misconduct:

Unethical standards in the collection of data, especially pertaining to research with human subjects,
The fabrication of data,
the falsification of data,
plagiarism,
the unjustified refusal to provide access to primary and original data, and
obstructing the research activities of other researchers as well as other unfair attempts to damage the scholarly reputation of another researcher.
providing inaccurate information in a grant proposal
creating disadvantages to researchers who have reported potential research misconduct (whistle-blowers).

Critical statements in scholarly discourse or errors made in good faith (honest errors) are not considered to be forms of research misconduct.

2.2.3. Procedures in cases of faculty academic misconduct

The Faculty Integrity Board (FIB) oversees cases of suspected academic misconduct by a faculty member, organizes investigations, and issues recommendations on responding to the breach. The Board is composed of the Director or Associate Director, Head of Human Resources, and one faculty representative nominated by the University Senate. Any members of the Board shall recuse themselves in the event of a conflict of interest.

Suspected breaches of research integrity by WVPU faculty (both adjunct and employed) should be reported to the Director, or with a member of the Faculty Integrity Board in the event of a conflict of interest. A report including a description of the suspected incident and any surrounding facts shall be prepared by the individual receiving the report.

The Faculty Integrity Board shall convene to review the report. The objective of the review is not to determine facts, such as if the alleged behavior took place, but only if the case might reasonably constitute academic misconduct and warrants an investigation. If the Board determines by majority vote that the issue warrants investigation, then the report shall be forwarded to the Austrian Agency for Research Integrity (ÖAWI) within 10 working days of the breach for investigation.

Following the investigation, the Faculty Integrity Board shall convene to review the findings of the investigations and the recommendations provided by ÖAWI. The Board shall issue final recommendations to the Director on subsequent actions. These may include (but are not limited to) sanctions including termination, training for faculty, or modification of university procedures. The Director shall decide on final measures to be implemented and shall prepare a report detailing how the recommendations of the Faculty Integrity Board have been addressed.

2.3. Academic misconduct in previously earned degrees

In accordance with §89 of the University Act 2002, WVPU may revoke a previously conferred Academic Degree when it was obtained through serious academic misconduct or fraud. WVPU’s Degree Revocation Policy outlines the procedure and circumstances whereby a previously granted WVPU degree may be revoked. Anyone with information regarding academic misconduct or fraud related to a previously earned academic degree should refer it to the University Senate.

¹ Research Ethics / Research Integrity Working Group of the Austrian Higher Education Conference (2020) Best Practice Guide for Research Integrity and Ethics. Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research (BMBWF),

² Austrian Agency for Research Integrity (2015). Guidelines for Good Scientific Practice. §2 https://oeawi.at/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/OeAWI_Brosch%C3%BCre_Web_2019.pdf 19.pdf

³ Ibid., §3.

WVPU Grievance Procedures are derived from the University’s commitment to equal opportunity and fair treatment in a complex and integrated community. The grievance procedures support the right of students and employees to obtain a review of actions taken that they consider unfair or as an impediment to the successful attainment of working and learning at Webster Vienna Private University. While many complaints are best resolved informally, the University recognizes that many disputes are not resolved effectively with informal measures, or due to the serious nature of the case are better suited to be formally investigated from the beginning.

3.1. Definitions, scope, and applicability

Grievances constitute allegations raised by an individual of a misinterpretation, misapplication, discriminatory application, or violation of the code of conduct or associated policy. For instance, alleged violations of academic freedoms, sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, bullying, ad hominem attacks, or unequal treatment including (but not limited to) discrimination based on age, sex, race, religion, creed, ethnic/national origin, physical or mental ability, pregnancy, genetic background, marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Academic integrity violations, grade disputes, admissions decisions, and similar academic decisions are not issues grievable under these procedures unless they relate to issues of harassment or discrimination.

Guidance on sexual harassment and related concepts and responses are available in WVPU’S Guidance on Sexual Harassment, prepared by the Working Group on Equal Opportunities.

Grievance procedures are available to all students and employees of the University and apply to grievances (as defined above) involving other employees, students, and/or third parties with contractual relationships with the University. There are separate procedures for employee and student grievances. Employees who voluntarily resign their employment or are dismissed can exercise rights under this policy during the two weeks immediately following their resignation or dismissal.

In the grievance process, the person making the complaint will be referred to as the Complainant student and the person(s) that are the subject of the complaint will be referred to as the Respondent. The representative of Human resources, the Working Group on Equal Opportunity, or the Works Council who first receives the complaint shall serve as the grievance coordinator and will initiate any required administrative steps in the procedure.

3.2. Principles

Confidentiality: To the extent possible, strict confidentiality will be maintained by all parties regarding all matters relevant to grievances on a need-to-know basis with the following provisions. In the case of informal grievances, consent is required of the Complainant before discussing the issue with other parties. In the case of formal grievances, the Respondent and the Complainant and in the case of employees the Respondant’s management will be notified. Members of the Grievance Panel, as described later in this policy, shall not discuss the grievance outside of the Hearing Panel meetings and shall not accept side conversations with persons who are not part of the formal hearing process.

Right to a fair hearing: The university upholds the rights of students and employees to obtain a formal review of actions taken that they consider unfair, but also of the opportunity for all parties involved in formal proceedings to have a fair hearing, provide their account, and receive timely updates and decisions relating to the grievance.

Right to an advisor: Both the Complainant and the Respondent have the right to be accompanied at all meetings, interviews and hearings in the grievance process by a support person or advisor of choice (e.g., student, parent, faculty member, staff member, associate); however this person may not participate in the hearing or speak on his or her behalf.

Reprisals: WVPU prohibits retaliation or reprisals against individuals based on their pursuit in good faith of a grievance under these procedures, or their participation in good faith in the grievance process. Any person attempting reprisal or retaliation will be subject to whatever disciplinary action the University concludes is appropriate, up to and including termination and dismissal.

Conflict of Interest: Panel members with a conflict of interest or material bias must recuse themselves from all procedures relating to the grievance (formal and informal). When in doubt, a panel member(s) may be removed by document unanimous vote by the remaining members. Replacement members of the panel are selected by the remaining members.

3.3. Employee Grievance Procedures

3.3.1. Informal grievance resolution

WVPU encourages employees to first pursue informal resolution as close to the source of the conflict as possible. Parties to disputes should resolve conflicts respectfully, objective, and solution-oriented with the supervisor in charge and develop a transparent and fair solution for all parties. The respective supervisor is the first point of contact for solving disputes informally.

The supervisor should address any informal grievance raised to a supervisor without unreasonable delay. This may include meeting with the individual who raised the grievance, the person against whom the grievance is raised, or other witnesses. The supervisor will inform the employee of measures taken orally or in writing. A written reply should be provided if the employee requests it.

Multiple alternative channels are available If the employee feels uncomfortable discussing the grievance with their supervisor, if the supervisor is party to the complaint, or if no agreement has been reached. They may raise an informal grievance in a confidential conversation with a grievance coordinator, who may be either representative of the Works Council (WC), Working Group for Equal Opportunity (WGEO), or with Human Resources (HR).

Consultations with any of the supports listed above are intended to provide advice, aid an individual in determining whether to try to resolve the situation on his or her own; to help the individual understand the WVPU’s formal and informal grievance procedures; and to provide a safe and private setting in which to discuss the incident(s) that gave rise to the concern.

Strict confidentiality shall be maintained in the informal procedure unless otherwise agreed with the Complainant, or if someone’s immediate safety is at risk. The support party approached with the grievance (representative of the WGEO, WC, or HR), henceforth the ‘Grievance Coordinator’, may ask for consent to discuss the issue raised with defined individuals to better resolve the issue.

Examples of resulting steps from an informal grievance include the following:

Notice to the Respondent (if any) of the behavior and the impact of their behavior on the Complainant
Mediation agreed upon by Complainant and Respondent
Referral of the grievance to an appropriate individual for assistance in reaching a resolution.
Referral to coaching or counseling services
Recommendations of measures to improve the general workplace climate in the affected department

The employee may at any point elect to pursue a formal grievance procedure, which is outlined below, or may contact an alternative Grievance Coordinator.

3.3.2. Formal Grievance Procedures

If attempts to resolve concerns informally prove unsuccessful or if the Complainant feels that the matter is sufficiently serious to address formally, he or she may initiate a formal grievance procedure. The purpose of the formal grievance procedures is to identify if there is an issue that needs to be addressed and what steps should be taken, including organizational measures.

The formal grievance proceedings consist of the following steps:

A written statement is submitted and an initial meeting confirms the Complainant wishes to proceed;
An initial hearing by the Grievance Panel will confirm if the nature of the complaint constitutes a grievable offense;
An independent investigation will result in a report including findings and recommendations;
The Grievance Panel will conduct a hearing and conclude if a breach WVPU’s code of conduct has occurred and will issue recommendations on remedial actions;
The Executive Board will address the recommendations and will provide a written explanation if any of the recommendations cannot be implemented.

The Grievance Panel consists of the Director or Associate Director, the Head of Human Resources, a Works Council representative, a member of the Working Group on Equal Opportunity, and a representative of the senate. Decisions are made on the basis of majority.

In the event of a conflict of interest, including any involvement in the grievance, panel members must recuse themselves. When in doubt, a panel member(s) may be removed by document unanimous vote by the remaining members. Replacement members of the panel are selected by the remaining members.

3.3.3. Filing a grievance

The formal grievance procedure is initiated by a written statement describing the complaint and the intention to raise a formal grievance. This statement may be submitted to Human Resources or a member of the Works Council or the Working Group on Equal Opportunities. This statement should set out clearly the nature of the grievance, concentrate on the facts of the situation.

The recipient of the written statement, the Grievance Coordinator, shall convene a confidential meeting with the Complainant within five working days of receiving the complaint. The purpose of this meeting is to ensure the Complainant understands WVPU’s formal grievance procedures and wishes to proceed.

3.3.3.1. Initial hearing

Following the confirmation that the Complainant wishes to proceed, the Grievance Coordinator shall immediately notify the grievance panel members, any relevant supervisors, and any Respondents named in the complaint.

The Grievance Panel shall be convened within 10 working days of the meeting for an initial hearing. The objective of the initial hearing is not to determine facts, such as if the alleged behavior took place, but only if whether the nature of the complaint constitutes a grievable issue.

If the panel determines by majority vote that the nature of the complaint constitutes a breach of the code of conduct, then an investigation shall be conducted, as outlined in the following section. If the Grievance Panel decides the issue is not grievable, then the Panel will prepare a written report of the Panel's findings and forward it to the Grievance Coordinator, the appropriate supervisors, the Complainant, and Respondents.

The Grievance Panel may also recommend interim measures pending the investigation to mitigate contact between a complainant, a respondent, and anyone involved in the investigation to ensure safety, prevent retaliation, and address an ongoing hostile environment. Interim measures imposed on the respondent are not determinations of guilt. Such measures are implemented to ensure that the investigation and adjudication of a complaint proceeds as efficiently and swiftly as possible. Examples of interim measures include, but are not limited to: no contact orders, restricted access to university the university facilities, classes, or organizational activities, adjustments to academic and working situations, and access to counselling and training services. The Executive Board is responsible for final decisions on interim measures and their implementation.

3.3.4. Investigation

To ensure a fair investigation, the Grievance Panel shall appoint an independent party as an investigator. Wherever possible and appropriate this person shall be an external expert chosen based on the nature of the allegations. The investigation should generally begin no later than thirty days following the initial Grievance Panel hearing. The duration of the investigation will vary based on the nature of the grievance but should not exceed sixty days.

The person carrying out the investigation shall:

interview the Complainant and Respondents separately,
interview other relevant third parties separately,
obtain and review any available evidence,
review related policies and procedures,
produce a report summarizing the evidence, detailing the investigations, findings, conclusions as well as recommendations.

Upon the conclusion of the investigation, the investigator will provide the investigative report and copies of any evidence to the Grievance Committee.

3.3.5. Grievance Panel Hearing

Following the conclusion of the investigation, the Grievance Panel will convene to review the investigation and produce recommendations for further action. The panel should generally be convened within ten working days of the submission of the investigation report. Both the Respondent and Complainant will be given the opportunity to separately address the Grievance Panel. In addition, the investigator should be available to attend the hearing to answer any questions of the Grievance Panel.

The objective of the hearing is to determine if there was a breach of the code of conduct and to issue recommendations for further action. The Grievance Panel will used a ‘clear and convincing’ standard of evidence in deciding (on the basis of majority) if the Respondent breached the code of conduct. That is, the evidence presented must convince the majority of the Grievance Panels members that it is highly probable that the alleged infraction took place.

The recommendations can include (but are not limited to) disciplinary action against the Respondent (such as formal warnings, transfer to another position, suspension, or dismissal), changes to an organization’s policy or procedures, training, counseling, coaching, or mediation for the parties involved and supervisors, further investigation, or no further action. Even if the situation is determined inconclusive, the Grievance Panel can recommend organizational measures that tackle related working conditions. The Grievance Panel may also request a consultation with the Complainant to discuss appropriate action.

The Panel shall prepare a written report summarizing their findings and recommendations on corrective action(s) to be taken if any. The report shall be submitted to the Director of the University and/or the University Council if there is a conflict of interest with the Director.

3.3.5.1. Implement Recommendations

If the determination is made by the Panel that the grievance has merit, the University is obliged to take appropriate, corrective, and remedial actions. The university rectorate (or University Council) will endeavor to implement the panel recommendations as best as possible and will document all steps taken. If it is not possible to implement one or more of the recommendations, the rectorate shall organize a meeting with the Panel members to explain and discuss alternative steps.

The Director or University Council shall promptly and simultaneously inform both the Respondent and the Complainant of the results of the hearing and any immediate corrective, and remedial actions to be taken. Decisions are final, and no appeal is possible.

3.4. Student Grievance Procedure

Students may employ the Student Grievance Procedure to address serious non-academic complaints. Student non-academic complaints may stem from a broad set of causes including but not limited to matters of conduct by fellow students or university personnel or regarding the misinterpretation, misapplication, discriminatory application, of a university policy or procedure excluding those pertaining to grading, assessment, and academic honesty.

3.4.1. Informal Resolution

Where appropriate, students are encouraged to seek informal resolution of a grievance by bringing it to the attention of the relevant individual, administrator, or office. WVPU’s Code of Conduct stipulates that conflicts should be resolved as close to the source of the conflict as possible. Parties to disputes should work to resolve conflicts in a respectful, objective, and solution-oriented manner and develop a solution that is transparent and fair to all parties.

Students may also raise informal complaints with the Student Resource Center Officer (SRC), or if the complaint involves the SRC the student may alternatively address the Office of the Director or the Working Group on Equal Opportunities (WGEO). Confidentiality shall be maintained unless otherwise agreed with the student raising the concern, or if someone’s immediate safety is at risk. The support party approached should seek consent to discuss the complaint with defined individuals to better resolve the issue. The support party can propose resolutions measures including (but are not limited to):

Notice to the Respondent (if any) of the behavior and the impact of their behavior on the Complainant;
Mediation agreed upon by Complainant and Respondent;
Referral of the grievance to an appropriate individual for assistance in reaching a resolution;
Referral to coaching or counseling services;
An administrative proceeding (see §4.3);
Formal Grievance Procedures.

3.4.1.1. Formal Student Grievance Procedures

The grievance proceedings consist of the following steps:

A written statement is submitted, and an initial meeting confirms the Complainant wishes to proceed;
An initial hearing by the Student Grievance Panel will confirm if the nature of the complaint constitutes a grievable offense;
An independent investigation will result in a report including findings and recommendations;
The Grievance Panel will conduct a hearing and conclude if a breach of WVPU’s code of conduct has occurred and will issue recommendations on remedial actions;
The Executive Board will address the recommendations and will provide a written explanation if any of the recommendations cannot be implemented.

If the Respondents named in the grievance are students, the Student Grievance Board shall be composed of the Director or Associate Director, a student representative nominated by the Student Government Association, the Student Resource Officer, a faculty member nominated by the University Senate, and a member of the Working Group on Equal Opportunities. If the grievance concerns the conduct of a university employee, the Grievance Panel shall be composed of the Director or Associate Director, a student representative nominated by the Student Government Association, the Head of Human Resources, and a representative nominated by the Works Council and a member of the Working Group on Equal Opportunities. Decisions shall be made on the basis of majority.

3.4.1.2. Filing a grievance

The formal grievance procedure is initiated by a written statement describing the complaint and the intention to raise a formal grievance. This statement may be submitted to the Student Resource Officer, a representative of the Student Government Association, or the Working Group on Equal Opportunities. This statement should describe the nature of the grievance and concentrate on the facts of the situation.

The recipient of the written statement, the ‘Grievance Coordinator’ (the representative from the SRC, WGEO, SGA, or WGEO) shall convene a confidential meeting with the Complainant within five working days of receiving the complaint. The purpose of this meeting is to ensure the Complainant understands WVPU’s formal grievance procedures and wishes to proceed.

3.4.1.3. Initial Grievance Panel Hearing

Following the confirmation that the Complainant wishes to proceed, the grievance coordinator shall immediately notify the Student Grievance Panel members, the appropriate supervisors, and any Respondents named in the complaint.

The grievance panel shall be convened within 10 working days of the meeting for an initial hearing. The objective of the hearing is not to determine facts, such as if the alleged behavior took place, but only if the nature of the complaint constitutes a grievable issue. Additionally, in complaints regarding student conduct, the Student Grievance Panel may refer the case to the Student Conduct Board.

If the Panel determines by majority vote that the nature of the complaint constitutes a breach of the code of conduct and warrants a full investigation, an investigator shall be appointed as outlined in the following section. If the panel decides that the complaint constitutes a breach of the code of conduct, but can be best resolved by a Student Conduct Board hearing, then the hearing will take place as outlined in section 4.4. If the Panel decides the issue is not grievable, then the Panel will prepare a written report of the Panel's findings and forward it to the Grievance Coordinator, the appropriate supervisors, the Complainant, and Respondents.

3.4.1.4. Investigation

To ensure a fair investigation, the grievance panel shall appoint a neutral party as the investigator. When the grievance concerns the behavior of employees, if possible the investigator shall be an external expert chosen based on the nature of the allegations. The investigation should begin no later than thirty days following the initial Grievance Panel hearing. The duration of the investigation will vary based on the nature of the grievance but should not exceed sixty days.

The person carrying out the investigation shall:

interview the Complainant and Respondents separately,
interview other relevant third parties separately,
obtain and review any available evidence,
review related policies and procedures,
produce a report summarizing the evidence, detailing the investigations, findings, and recommendations.

Upon the conclusion of the investigation, the investigator will provide the investigative report and copies of any evidence to the Grievance Committee.

3.4.1.5. Grievance Panel Hearing

Following the conclusion of the investigation, the Student Grievance Panel will convene to review the investigation and develop recommendations for further action. The panel should generally be convened within ten working days of the submission of the investigation report. Both the Respondent and Complainant will be given the opportunity to separately address the Grievance Panel. In addition, the investigator should be available to attend the hearing to answer any questions of the Grievance Panel.

The objective of the hearing is to determine if a breach of the code of conduct occurred and to issue recommendations for further action. The Grievance Panel will used a ‘clear and convincing’ standard of evidence in deciding (on the basis of majority) if the Respondent breached the code of conduct. That is, the evidence presented must convince the majority of the Grievance Panels members that it is highly probable that the alleged infraction took place.

These can include (but are not limited to) disciplinary action against the Respondent (such as formal warnings, transfer to another position, suspension, or dismissal), changes to an organization’s policy or procedures, training, counseling, coaching, or mediation for the parties involved, further investigation, or no further action. The Grievance Panel may also request a consultation with the Complainant to jointly agree on appropriate action.

The Panel shall prepare a written report summarizing the findings and recommendations on corrective action(s) to be taken if any. The report shall be submitted to the Director of the University and/or the University Council if there is a conflict of interest with the Director.

3.4.1.6. Implementation of recommendations

If the determination is made by the Panel that the grievance has merit, the University is obliged to take appropriate, corrective, and remedial actions. The university rectorate will endeavor to implement the panel recommendations as best as possible and will document all steps taken. If it is not possible to implement one or more of the recommendations, the rectorate shall organize a meeting with the Panel members to explain and discuss alternative steps.

WVPU student conduct procedures are in place to respond to alleged student breaches of the WVPU Code of Conduct or non-compliance with other (non-academic) university policies. They provide a fair system that is intended as much for guidance and correction of behavior as for invoking fair and appropriate sanctions. The procedures are designed to determine whether students' alleged behaviors violate the WVPU Code of Conduct or other relevant policies and determining appropriate actions.

4.1. Reports of alleged violations

Reports of student conduct that may involve a possible violation of the WVPU Code of Conduct and associated policies may be brought to the Student Resource Center, the Head of the Academic Department of the Student, or the office of the Director.

4.2. Confidentiality and records

To the extent possible, strict confidentiality will be maintained by all parties regarding alleged student conduct violations, hearings, and sanctions on a need-to-know basis.

Reports of alleged student conduct violations and outcomes of administrative proceedings shall be confidentially recorded by the Student Resource Center and shall not be forwarded to any third party. These records shall be released to Student Conduct Board in the event of conduct hearings or Grievance involving the Respondent named in the records, or the event of a legal proceeding involving the report. The records shall be deleted seven years from the date of the initial record.

Once a case has been referred to the Student Conduct Board it shall be entered into Webster University’s student conduct software along with the outcome and may be considered in future decisions involving the student, such as for study abroad opportunities.

4.3. Administrative proceeding

Many minor disputes or infractions can be handled within the context of administrative proceedings. Upon receiving reports of alleged student misconduct, the Student Resource Center, an Academic Department Head, or the Director or Associate Director may request an administrative proceeding.

The administrative proceedings are chaired by the Academic Director, Associate Director, or a designate and are attended by the Student Resource Officer and the Respondent. If there is more than one Respondent, each shall be granted his or her own proceeding.

During the administrative proceeding, the Respondent and the participants will engage in a conversation to discuss the circumstances of the alleged violation, responsibility, and appropriate sanctions. The Director or Associate Director may withdraw any alleged violation deemed to be without basis. Sanctions resulting from administrative proceedings exclude dismissal and suspension but may include (but are not limited to) written warnings to the Respondent, an essay, action plan, or written reflection to be provided by the student, an agreement with the Respondent not to contact named individuals or removal from a course.

Cases in which Respondents do not agree with the proposed resolution or do not accept responsibility will proceed to a hearing by the Student Conduct Board.

4.4. Student Conduct Board

The purpose of the Student Conduct Board (SCB) is to conduct a formal hearing of alleged student conduct violations, deciding if the alleged violations took place and on any resulting sanctions and action, up to and including suspension and dismissal. The student conduct board allows students facing accusations of misconduct the opportunity to have their case heard before a panel of their peers, staff, and faculty.

The Student Conduct Board can hear cases referred from administrative proceedings, or the Director or Associate Director can also immediately refer a case to a hearing when the case involves serious allegations or if the student denies the reported behavior. Cases involving sexual misconduct and serious allegations of bullying or harassment requiring thorough investigation should be handled WVPU’S formal grievance procedures (see section 3).

The Student Conduct Board is composed of the Director or Associate Director, two student representatives nominated by the Student Government Association, the Student Resource Officer, and a faculty member nominated by the University Senate. The decisions shall be based solely on information and statements introduced at the hearing. All decisions shall be made by a majority vote. Any Student Board Member with a conflict of interest or material bias must recuse themselves from all procedures relating to the hearing aside from testifying. Replacement members may be selected by the remaining board members.

The Student Resource Office shall be responsible for organizing a time for the hearing and notifying all parties who are to testify, and collecting and forwarding all pertinent data and evidence to the Student Conduct Board members. The SRC officer shall also give appropriate advance notice, in writing, of the charges against the student and copies of the available evidence, to ensure that he or she may adequately prepare for such a hearing. The notice indicates the date, time, and place of the hearing. The notification should be received by the student at least ten calendar days before the hearing. The Respondent may submit additional evidence, the names of any witnesses to testify on his or her behalf, written statements from absentee witnesses to the SRC Officer no later than three days before the hearing.

At the student conduct hearing, the Respondent shall have to opportunity to present his or her side, explain any evidence her or she submitted in advance, as well as call on any relevant witnesses (character witnesses are not relevant to this procedure). The SRC officer shall present any other evidence and call on any other relevant witnesses. Once all testimony is heard or read, the Respondent may make a final statement and the Board members are given a final opportunity to ask questions. All persons other than Board members are excused and the Board meets to render a decision. The student may be accompanied at the hearing by a support person or advisor of choice (e.g., student, parent, faculty member, staff member, associate); however this person may not participate in the hearing or speak on his or her behalf.

The Student Conduct Board shall decide if the Respondent was responsible, not responsible, or shall choose to continue the case to obtain additional information or need for further consideration. If the Respondent was found to be responsible, the board shall decide on any sanctions up to and including dismissal. It may also issue related recommendations to improving the learning environment at WVPU, such as needed training, prevention, missing resources, or changes in university policies and procedures. The decision shall be provided, in writing, to the student.

4. WVPU Study and Examination Guidelines

Approved by the University Council on November 20, 2020

This document provides a summary of the key examination guidelines applicable to all study programs and course types offered by Webster Vienna Private University (WVPU); it particularizes the regulations identified in Chapter 8.2 of the WVPU Constitution. The document contains the universal standards used by WVPU in the grading of courses, the assessment, scheduling and oversight of exams, including the respective makeup and appeals processes for students as well as a general description of the grading standards of Webster University and their Austrian equivalents. It is the sole responsibility of students to read and adhere to these and any additional guidelines pertaining to individual courses as stipulated in the respective syllabi.

Course grading at WVPU is based on the practice of formative assessments. Diverse weights are afforded to final and midterm exams as well as in-class quizzes. Therefore, WVPU does not maintain a formal re-examination policy for failed exams as is the practice in Austrian public universities, universities of applied sciences, and private universities.

WVPU courses are offered in multiple formats across 18-week semesters, whereby individual session lengths may vary or be held in block format depending on the degree cycle, level and discipline.
In special cases, courses may also take the form of directed or independent studies under the direction of an instructor. In directed studies up to 5 students work through the complete course material outside of the classroom whereas in an independent study a single student works independently on a topic not offered as a regular course.
WVPU courses may be offered on site in class, fully remote with synchronous broadcasting of sessions online, or in hybrid form, combining in-class and remote components as well as synchronous and asynchronous elements.

WVPU courses at the graduate or undergraduate level are never based purely on one final examination.
1. WVPU courses combine a diverse and cumulative set of oral, written, and examinations assessments to determine final grades.
2. The specific distributed weight of assignments and exams vary from course to course depending on the level and discipline and oversight of the respective academic department.
Final grades normally are assigned according to the U.S. system of letter grades (ABCDF for first cycle courses and ABCF for second cycle courses).
1. Some courses are also graded as Pass or Fail.
2. Depending upon the agreement of the instructor, students may request that any course be graded as pass/fail. To do so, students must request a pass/fail score by the end of the second week of class.
Students who fail to deliver a performance component required for successful completion of a course due to a legitimate and documented reason will receive a grade according to the work submitted.
1. If a student does not provide enough coursework to pass the course by the grading deadline, the student will receive an F.
2. In exceptional cases and in the case of thesis projects, instructors may assign a grade of Incomplete (I) to allow for the student complete their work.
  1. When receiving an Incomplete (I), a student has one semester to complete his or her work after which the student will receive a failing grade.
Students are entitled to know the grading scale used in any course, i.e. points assigned per letter grade.
1. Grading scales should always be included in the course syllabus.
2. The precise percentage to letter grade distribution is determined by the instructor within the broader context of standards defined by the academic departments administering the respective academic programs under auspices of which any course takes place.
Students who earn an F, WF, or ZF in a required course of their degree program must repeat the course.
1. Students may repeat an elective course in which an F, WF, or ZF is earned.
Students are entitled to retake any course in order to change the grade used in calculating their grade point average (GPA).
1. All attempts to complete a course as well as those registered and withdrawn are recorded and presented in the student’s official transcript of records.

Students may discuss any grade with the instructor up until the closing of the respective grading period.
All grade disputes shall be resolved at first instance between the student and the instructor.
A student who believes they have received a grade that is arbitrary or assigned for non-academic reasons may discuss the grade with the respective Department Head.
1. In the case of Webster University online courses, students may discuss the grade with the appropriate department chair in St. Louis.
If the grade dispute is not resolved within three months, the student may appeal the grade to the Examination Committee.
Grade appeals will not be considered after one academic year.

Students are entitled to ask for clarification by the instructor or proctor about any questions posed on the exam.
1. Questions should be presented directly to the instructor or proctor without disturbing other students.
2. Instructors or proctors reserve the right to allow an initial period for questions for all students.
Students are solely responsible to adhere to university policies on academic honesty.
Students, who fail to attend final exams without a pre-excused absence, receive a failing grade (0 points) for the examination.
1. Students are expected to be present for any examination at the scheduled time and place. Failure to show up later than 15 minutes after the beginning of a scheduled exam is regarded as an unexcused absence.
Students are entitled to see all examination documents and course assessment records.
Exams missed due to excused absences may be rescheduled.
Students have the right to appeal an examination assessment on reasonable grounds including:
- a violation against the process of examinations,
- a suspected case of a discrimination by an instructor, or
- a disturbance during the examination procedure.
1. Students can appeal examination results to an Examinations Committee consisting of the Director or Associate Director, the head of the respective academic department, one additional department head, and a student representative.
The university requires that its instructors retain digital records of all assessment criteria for at least one year and assign grades to students no later than two weeks following the date of the examination or assignment deadline.
Students are entitled to review their performance on final exams and/or projects prior to the grading deadline.
1. The instructor can choose to return the final exams and/or projects to students, keep them or deposit them with the respective department coordinator for student review.
2. Should the instructor choose to keep the graded exams, these must be kept for a period of one year.
Students with disabilities are entitled to receive upon explicit request special accommodations in performing examinations.

Final examinations for all courses generally are scheduled in the final week of the semester.
Mid-term exams, if applied, may be held either in class or during an additionally scheduled examination week.
Academic department heads are entitled to permit individualized scheduling of examination dates between students and instructors in order to accommodate particular circumstances.
Examinations may be postponed in the event that the instructor or proctor falls ill or is more than 15 minutes late to any scheduled examination appointment.

WVPU grades courses according to the standards shared across the Webster University network.

When looking at their online transcripts, students will see one of the following grade codes:

Undergraduate Letter Grades (letter grade and Austrian equivalent)

A: 1 — Sehr gut — very good
A-: 1 — Sehr gut — very good
B+: 2 — Gut — good
B: 2 — Gut — good
B-: 2 — Gut — good
C+: 3 — Befriedigend — satisfactory
C: 3 — Befriedigend — satisfactory
C-: 3 — Befriedigend — satisfactory
D+: 4 — Genügend — adequate
D: 4 — Genügend — adequate
F: 5 — Nicht genügend — unsatisfactory
P: Pass

Undergraduate Letter Grades (letter grade and Austrian equivalent)

A: 1 — Sehr gut — very good
A-: 1 — Sehr gut — very good
B+: 2 — Gut — good
B: 2 — Gut — good
B-: 2 — Gut — good
C: 3 — Befriedigend — satisfactory
F: 5 — Nicht genügend — unsatisfactory
P: Absolviert

Additional WVPU grading options

CR: No grade/credit
I: Incomplete
W: Withdrawn
WF: Unofficial withdrawn, thus F
IP: In progress
NR: Not reported for the course
Z: Placeholder for a late submitted grade
ZF: Incomplete and not complete within one academic year

5. WVPU Thesis Guidelines

Approved by the University Council on Nov. 20, 2020

Introduction

Writing a thesis or conducting a thesis project is one of the most challenging and yet rewarding academic experiences a student faces at any level. It provides them with an opportunity to demonstrate their ability to undertake independent research appropriate to their academic level as well as develop and apply discipline relevant research designs, techniques, and methods or produce a major independent project reflective of and appropriate to their respective field. Furthermore, it serves as evidence of successful completion to a long stretch of studies, thereby stimulating the transition from one degree-cycle to the next or from university to a working life.

The following presents, in sequence, universal rules pertaining to the registration, preparation and assessment of bachelor and master theses and those respectively specific to first and second cycle degrees.

For specific guidelines and procedures, including length, organization and style matters, students should refer to WVPU’s Thesis Process, Content and Minimum Standards (Appendix 3a).

Universal rules
1. In order to earn an Austrian accredited degree in any field and at any level requires that students successfully complete a thesis project including preparation, submission, and approval (for graduate by at least two qualified individuals, a supervisor and second reader).
  1. Individuals authorized to serve as thesis supervisors or readers are to be made available by the respective academic departments.
  2. Thesis supervisors must hold a PhD or equivalent in the respective discipline of the thesis topic or fall into one of the following groups:
    - Assistant, Associate, Full or Visiting Professors or Lecturers of WVPU or any of Webster University’s campuses
    - Status-track faculty of another accredited university in the U.S. or European Higher Education Area
  3. Thesis readers may be any individual of category 1.1.2 as well as individuals nominated by the respective departments and approved by the Director.
2. The specific quantity of ECTS for a thesis or thesis project as well as the specific requirements in terms of content and length will vary between cycle level and discipline and must be made available in writing to students via the departments overseeing the respective degree programs. However, at no point may the discipline and cycle specific standards fall below those presented in this document.
3. Students are solely responsible to consult with the librarian regarding the requirements for the thesis submission to the library.
4. Students should expect that the editing and approval processes preceding the final thesis acceptance/non-acceptance may take considerable time and subsequently could have an impact on the actual graduation date.
  1. Students are solely responsible to complete and receive approval for their thesis before graduating.
  2. The time required for the supervisor and reader to review the student’s thesis or thesis project as well as the time allocated to conduct any additional editing may not be shortened to meet a student’s desired graduation date.
Universal registration rules
1. Students must complete all relevant program requirements prior to formally registering for a thesis or thesis project. However, students are strongly encouraged to begin preparing for their thesis or thesis project as early as possible.
Universal preparation rules
1. Students must follow a specific sequence of actions when preparing to write their thesis or produce their thesis project.
  1. Students must fill in all appropriate forms in proper sequence. The precise forms may differ depending on degree cycle and discipline.
    1. The supervisor (first reader), reader (second reader) and department head must sign the Thesis Declaration Form.
  2. Regardless of level or discipline, students must produce a complete Thesis Proposal including:
    - Introduction summarizing a research question
    - Initial Literature Review on the topic organized around all major concepts identified in the research question thereby identifying an existing research gap
    - Theory-based hypotheses deriving from the research question
    - Initial proposal on the methodology used to test the hypotheses
    - Statement of anticipated outcomes
    - Any proposed use of human subjects
    - Any potential use of university equipment
    - A bibliography or cited references section depending on the standards of the respective discipline.
  3. If human subjects are required to complete the thesis or thesis project, students must obtain written permission from Webster University’s Institutional Review Board before beginning to collect any data on human subjects beyond the pilot study stage of the thesis.
    1. Students are solely responsible to allow enough time for approval.
  4. Students must submit all relevant forms and the written proposal and receive approval before the last day of the semester prior to the semester when they intend to begin.
    1. Students are solely responsible for preparing all materials and getting approval in time.
    2. Academic departments are required to establish appropriate procedures with announced deadlines for submission and approval of thesis proposals.
Universal assessment rules
1. Students must deliver theses according to the most updated formatting and citation rules of WVPU, the details of which vary between undergraduate and graduate programs, and must be provided by the respective academic departments.
2. The thesis or thesis project is considered a draft, and thus incomplete until a final version has been approved in full by the supervisor and reader according to the appropriate procedures and level defined by the respective academic departments.
3. It is the sole responsibility of the thesis supervisor to forward the thesis to the (second) reader after he/she has approved it.
4. Both the supervisor and, in the case of graduate theses, the reader provide a written assessment of the work to the respective departments and the departments provide those assessments to the Office of the Director prior to scheduling a defense.
5. Upon final approval, students must deliver a digital version of the thesis in PDF format and at least one bound hard copy to their respective academic department.
6. Students are required to adhere to any discipline specific rules as defined by the academic departments.
7. Grading standards depend on level and discipline, but must be credit/no credit, pass/fail, or a letter grade.
8. Students who do not meet the respective departmental standards for their thesis will not receive a letter grade of F.

Undergraduate thesis rules
1. ECTS for successfully completed undergraduate theses depend on the discipline and are specified in corresponding study plans.
2. The course coding for undergraduate theses must be approved for scheduling by the Director or Associate Director.
  1. No other course may be substituted as a thesis.
Undergraduate thesis registration
1. Specific registration rules are determined by the respective departments.
2. Registration for an undergraduate thesis must be for one semester.
Undergraduate thesis assessment
1. Undergraduate theses receive a letter grade (A,B,C,D,F).
2. Final approval of an undergraduate thesis is the sole responsibility of the supervisor.

Graduate thesis rules
1. Credit for successfully completed graduate theses depend on the discipline and are specified in corresponding study plans.
2. The course coding for graduate theses must be approved for scheduling by the Director or Associate Director.
  1. No other course may be substituted as a thesis.
  2. Students writing a thesis in International Relations must also register for INTL 6900, an anchor course for document tracking and processing.
  3. Students writing a graduate thesis must also fill out the requisite forms allowing the thesis to be published by ProQuest in its digital database.
    1. Formal submission of the thesis to ProQuest is the responsibility of the respective departments.
Graduate thesis registration
1. Registration for a graduate thesis must be for no less than one semester and no more than two semesters.
Graduate thesis assessment
1. In addition to universal submission rules, graduate theses must meet the following additional requirements:
  1. Students must publicly defend their thesis.
    1. Departments are required to schedule thesis defenses and announce them with two weeks' notice.
    2. Students must submit together with their thesis an unsigned Thesis Approval Form, which is signed by the supervisor and (second) reader, the department head and either the Director or Associate Director.
    3. Graduate theses are to be graded with letter grades.

October 6, 2020

Process for Undergraduate Thesis

Student finds supervisor, develops a research question and basic research design.
Proposal development/acceptance by supervisor.
Student registers for thesis.
Writing and feedback phase.
Final version is sent to supervisor.
Supervisor writes assessment for the thesis and grades it. Assessment will be sent to the Office of the Director.

Please note: UG theses should be register for a semester course (for 8 ECTS) in the Fall or the Spring!

Process for Graduate Thesis

Student finds supervisor, develops a research question and basic research design, and files a thesis intent form.
Proposal development/acceptance by supervisor, followed by registration.
Writing and feedback phase.
Final version is sent to supervisor and reader.
Once the supervisor approves the thesis, student binds thesis according to the guidelines.
Department coordinator collects assessments including a suggested grade and sends them by e-mail to the Office of the Director.
The thesis defense is scheduled.
The thesis defense is held. Final grade is set in a discussion between supervisor and reader (and chair – no student!) immediately after the defense and entered into CX as soon as possible.
The bound thesis is sent to the Office of the Director for signature.

Thesis Defense Committee for Graduate Thesis

For each graduate thesis, a thesis committee needs to be established consisting of three employed faculty members. This means that besides the reader and the second reader, there needs to be a third faculty present at the defense. If the department head is the supervisor or the second reader of the thesis, this third person can be a member of the faculty of any department, but not an adjunct.

Thesis Content and Structure

Title Page
Table of Contents
List of Figures and/or Tables
Introduction — ends with a broad research question
Literature review — ends with research gap (may in some disciplines include the theory coverage)
Theory — ends with theory based hypotheses
Method (this includes a walk through and reasoning of the approach to be taken)
Data
Analysis
Conclusion
References
Appendices

It does not matter if some of those sections do not make up their own chapter but they need to be in the thesis. Of course in the case of exploratory theses, i.e. the better understanding of a problem, it might look a bit different with respect to hypothesis and methods. In addition, the applied method depends on the question, i.e. this can also alter the structure slightly.

Thesis Length

Undergraduate thesis:

Minimum of 10,000 words in the body of the text (excluding graphics, tables and table of content)

Graduate thesis:

Minimum of 18,000 words in the body of the text

WVPU Student Policies

Access and Use

Access to some University computer systems requires that each user have a unique identity, protected by a password. A computer identity represents the user in various system activities, to provide access to software and data, and to associate the user's own software and data with the identity. As such, this computer identity is a University instrument of identification, and its misuse constitutes forgery or misrepresentation and is subject to University disciplinary action.

In particular:

No Webster system is to be used for any illegal or criminal purpose.
Unauthorized attempts to gain root access or access to any account not belonging to the user on any Webster system are prohibited.
Do not share your logon credentials with anyone else.
Unauthorized access to restricted databases is prohibited.
Any user who finds a possible security hole on any Webster system is obliged to report it to the system administrators.
Password sharing is prohibited. Users shall be held responsible for choosing safe passwords, ensuring file protections are set correctly, and for all use of accounts and user-ids assigned to them.
No food allowed in computer labs. Drinks only allowed in spill proof containers.

Civility and Liberty

The University seeks to protect the civil, personal and property rights of those actually using its computing resources and seeks to protect the confidentiality of University records stored on its computer systems. Conduct which involves use of University computer resources to violate another's rights is subject to University disciplinary action.

As an academic institution, we are committed to supporting the academic freedom of all members of the University community; as a social institution, we are committed to respecting the dignity of all members of our community. The standards and principles of intellectual and academic freedom developed for university libraries apply to material received via computer news networks and by similar means. The standards of intellectual and academic freedom developed for faculty and student publication in traditional media apply to computer-mediated publication.

There will be situations in which what one person understands to be free expression another person takes to be harassment, personal assault, or an assault on prevailing standards of decency. The Report of the Committee on Freedom of Expression at Yale University (January 8, 1975), states:

Shock, hurt and anger are not consequences to be weighed lightly. No member of a community with a decent respect for others should use, or encourage others to use, slurs and epithets intended to discredit another's race, ethnic group, religion or sex. It may sometimes be necessary in a university for civility and mutual respect to be superseded by the need to guarantee free expression. The values superseded are nevertheless important, and every member of the university community should consider them in exercising the fundamental right to free expression.

We have considered the opposing argument that behavior which violates these social and ethical considerations should be made subject to formal sanctions, and the argument that such behavior entitles others to prevent speech they might regard as offensive. Our conviction that the central purpose of the university is to foster the free access of knowledge compels us to reject both of these arguments. They assert a right to prevent free expression. They rest upon the assumption that speech can be suppressed by anyone who deems it false or offensive… They make the majority, or any willful minority, the arbiters of truth for all. If expression may be prevented, censored or punished, because of its content or because of the motives attributed to those who promote it, then it is no longer free. It will be subordinated to other values that we believe to be of lower priority in a university. The conclusions that we draw, then, are these: even when some members of the university community fail to meet their social and ethical responsibilities, the paramount obligation of the university is to protect their right to free expression… If a university's overriding commitment to free expression is to be sustained, secondary social and ethical responsibilities must be left to the informal processes of suasion, example and argument.

Just as nothing in the present policy is to be understood as excusing users of University computing facilities from compliance with federal or state law, nothing in this policy should be understood as withdrawing the University's affirmation of statements in faculty and student policy handbooks in support of academic and intellectual freedom.

None of this, though, denies that harassment on the basis of sex is a violation of Section 703 of Title VII of The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and is also prohibited under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Webster University's Sexual Offense Policy defines sexual harassment (following Section 703 and the EEOC's 1980 Sex Discrimination Guidelines):

Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature constitutes sexual harassment when 1) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or a condition of an individual's employment or education or 2) submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for employment or academic decisions affecting that individual or 3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work or academic performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational or employment environment.

The mere fact of computer-mediation by no means excuses contact that otherwise counts as sexual harassment under the reasonable person standard adopted by the University. Furthermore, users of public terminals or similar facilities at the University should be aware of the public nature of shared facilities and should take care not to display images or play sounds that could create an atmosphere of harassment for others. Similar considerations apply to electronic mail exchanges.

Electronic mail on Webster systems should be as private as the system administrators can make it. Users are prohibited from trying to read the electronic mail of others. System administrators are not to read mail or non-world-readable files unless truly required in the course of their duties. System administrators are to treat mail and non-world-readable files as private at all times. Whenever feasible, systems should be administered so that bounced mail is directed to the system administrators in the form of headers only to protect privacy while ensuring reliable e-mail service. The University is not responsible for unofficial uses of computer resources. In particular, email and personal Web pages often express private opinions which do not reflect University positions.

Property

Webster University computing and information resources are made available to individuals to assist in the pursuit of educational and other academic goals. It is expected that users will cooperate with each other and respect the ownership of work and information even though it is in electronic — rather than more immediately tangible — form. Individuals and organizations will be held no less accountable for their actions in situations involving computers and information resources than they would be in dealing with other media. Rules prohibiting theft and vandalism apply to software and data as well as to physical equipment.

In particular:

No Webster system is to be used as a staging ground to crack other systems.
No one shall alter or delete software, hardware, communications, or data belonging to someone else without authorization.
Users may not browse, access, copy or change private files without authorization. Users may not attempt to modify the computer system or software in any unauthorized manner.
Use of Webster systems for non-Webster purposes, such as running an independent business, or volunteer work for some other organization, absent written authorization, may constitute theft of computer time. Activities by students related to their coursework or to the work of chartered student organizations, and by faculty or staff related to their contractual obligations are explicitly authorized by this policy.
Users ought to adhere to posted lab and system policies, procedures or protocols, such as time or storage limits, where those policies, procedures or protocols are consistent with this policy. Refusal may constitute failure to comply as defined in the Code of Student Conduct.
The use of invasive software, such as "worms" and "viruses" destructive to computer systems, is unethical and illegal.
Copyrighted software must only be used in accordance with its license or purchase agreement. Users do not have the right to receive or use unauthorized copies of software, nor to make unauthorized copies for themselves or others.
Attempting to damage or disrupt operation of computer equipment, data communications equipment or data communications lines is prohibited.
Gratuitous consumption of system resources (disk space, CPU time and bandwidth) will not be tolerated.

Adjudication

This policy establishes no new governance or disciplinary structures. Alleged violations of this policy are to be treated like other allegations of wrongdoing at the University. For example, allegations of misconduct by students should be adjudicated according to established procedures regarding student conduct.

Above policy approved in this form by the Faculty Senate, Webster University, July 18, 1996, and by the Technology Coordinating Committee, August 21, 1996, following previous deliberations by the Senate, as well as deliberations by the Technology Coordinating Committee of the University, it’s AUP Subcommittee, and the Faculty Executive Committee (precursor to the Senate). Adopted by the Administrative Council of the University on August 27, 1996.

Your privacy is important to us and we take the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other relevant privacy regulations seriously. It is our goal to be sensitive and respectful of your personal information and to adhere to all facets of the GDPR regulation. Please be aware that all personal data you provide are subject to our Privacy Notices.

We have created Privacy Notices for our main constituents that reflect our commitment to transparency and best practice when it comes to handling your personal data. In the Notices, we outline how we collect your data, why we collect your data, when we share your data, and inform you of your rights with regard to access, deletion and the ability to update that data.

Our privacy notices are available here.

If you have questions about our privacy notices, our cookie policy, privacy practices, or any other aspect of your privacy and the security of your personal information, please email our Privacy Manager. For more resources on privacy, to report an incident, please see our Office of Global Compliance, Governance and Privacy website.

April 17, 2023

Our campus has a sophisticated locking and access system that grants access to different rooms and areas depending on the nature of the user. This system regulates access both within the building and to the building itself. To facilitate this, the building and its various constituencies such as students, adjuncts and employees are sorted into groups, each with defined accessibility to specific areas at defined times. The following access regulations pertain to students and visitors.

1. Access

Do not let any unfamiliar person enter the building with you and always use your own access card. Visitors need to register at front desk and be picked up from ground floor and be accompanied back by their host at the end of their visit.

2. Access cards

Access cards must be carried at all times and serve as ID while on university premises. They must be used to access the building and shown to university personnel or contracted security personnel upon request. Students who have forgotten their card will be asked for their student ID number before being granted access by the front desk. Temporary access is valid for one calendar day only.

Access to main campus facilities is terminated if the card is forgotten more than three times, as it is assumed that the card has been lost. Students must fill in a replacement access card form, and a fee of 30 euros will be charged to their student account. Students need to register as visitors at the front desk until they receive their replacement card. If the card is lost or broken, students must fill in a replacement access card form, and a 30 euros handling fee will be charged. However, in case of technical failure, the card is replaced for free once a year. Students who have an “on hold” status need to make an appointment with the student finance office as soon as possible and will only receive their new card after approval from the finance officer. All cards must be returned to the front desk when access has ended.

In the event of loss or theft, card holders are obliged to notify Facilities department immediately. During opening hours, the notification can be made directly at the front desk, via phone at +43 (0)1 269 92 93 4300, or via e-mail to facility@webster.ac.at, stating full name and student ID number so the card can be deactivated. Student standard access

3. Student Access

Every actively enrolled student will receive access to classrooms (except Mac and PC Lab) and the main front entrance only. Students will receive an access card with their picture, student ID, study status (graduate/undergraduate), and birth date.

Stickers for the ID card for the current semester must be picked up from the front desk.

Students who have an “on hold” status will not receive access to the university premises. They must obtain clearance from the front desk to have their cards reactivated and register as a visitor for the day. Students are considered active until the end of their last class enrollment. Access for inactive students is removed no later than the end of the academic year.

3.1 Trainee scholarship students

Supervisors of Trainee Scholarship Students can request access for their WVTS and their cards will be programmed accordingly. For example, an event assistant can request access to the staff kitchen, storage rooms, the event coordinator office etc.

3.2 Counseling room 5.10; music room 5.9, SGA room

Distribution of access cards for these rooms occurs via the front desk. If you wish to use these rooms, you can pick up the cards from the front desk and return them after use. The handover of these cards requires a signature at pick-up and at the time of return. If the front desk is closed, you must return the cards the next day.

3.3 Event participant cards

These cards are distributed by the front desk and can be handed out for larger groups upon request.

3.4 MAC lab, PC lab and other labs /media rooms

Additional access may be granted on a permanent or temporary basis to the groups using the areas. If you believe that you need access to an additional area or room, please contact your supervisor.

4. Visitors

Visitors must register and unregister at the front desk and carry a visitor badge at all times, which is valid for a calendar day only. They must be picked up and released at the front desk by the host. Visitors who come on a regular basis and are familiar with the campus and emergency procedures may move freely within the campus during opening hours after the host confirms their instruction to the facilities. The visitor must wear the visitor badge visibly at all times and produce a photo ID upon request by any university official. If they cannot produce an ID, the visitor must leave immediately. Refusal to do so may result in charges of trespassing.

5. Opening Hours

Opening hours of the main reception are published on our Contact Us page.

Once the main entrance of the building has been closed, and the wooden doors are closed, it is necessary to exit through the side entrance. Do not manually open the wooden entrance doors to exit once they are closed.

Updated Feb. 2017

There are lockers available for students on almost every floor in the building.
Keys for the lockers can be collected at the Front Desk. Locker keys will be signed out on a first-come, first-served basis. The name and student ID of each student receiving a locker key will be noted and students will need to sign that they agree to the Student Locker Policy.
These lockers are for temporary use, at maximum for the duration of one semester. All lockers need to be emptied and keys returned to the Front Desk the latest by Friday at noon of the last week of each semester.
Webster University does not incur liability for any missing items or damage to your personal belongings.
All student should make sure to take care of their locker key. In case you lose your locker key, please contact the Front Desk. A maintenance staff member will open your locker for a fee of 50 euros, which covers Webster’s cost for replacing the cylinder of the locker.
If students fail to clear their locker and return their locker key at the end of the term, the locker will be emptied and students will be charged a fee of 50 euros on their student account. Students will be able to pick up their personal belongings during break week and the first two weeks of the next term at the Front Desk. Items that are not picked up after the first two weeks of the semester will be donated: Books will be donated to the library, USB sticks to IT, clothing will be dropped off at a local clothing drop-off location for Kolping Austria. Items that cannot be donated will be disposed

Effective June 1, 2022

Webster Vienna Private University is committed to providing environment that safeguards its community members’ welfare, while promoting individual freedom and responsibility. Community members must adhere to the Code of Conduct, which includes an expectation of all community members to conduct themselves with due regard to the interests and reputation of the institution, and explicitly outlines that the university will not tolerate conduct that endangers the health and safety of others. To that end:

Alcohol consumed on campus or as part of WVPU activities shall be done lawfully, responsibly and in moderation. Intoxicated behavior that violates WVPU’s Code of Conduct will not be tolerated and will be subject to removal from WVPU premises, sanctions or measures as outlined in the Conduct and Grievance Procedures.
Persons planning WVPU events with alcohol should be mindful of complexities of planning an event with alcohol and should manage their events accordingly. The safety and well-being of participants shall be at the forefront of event planning and management. Events that encourage excessive drinking are prohibited.
Student-led organizations that plan events with alcohol consumption require a university employee to approve the event plans and be present at the event. This individual shall assist the organizers to make responsible decisions about the events and aid in enforcing the alcohol policy and Code of Conduct.
WVPU recognizes that that alcohol abuse is most effectively reduced through treatments programs and will support affected community members through referrals to appropriate counselling and treatment programs.

Updated 2024.

Webster Vienna is a Smoke, Tobacco and Vape-Free Community

All Webster University campus buildings are designated smoke-free areas. Smoking is not permitted in front of the entire façade of Praterstrasse 23.

Our smoke-free and vape-free campus policy is outlined in the Webster Vienna student handbook and enforced by fine. Fines can be added to your student account where they will be required to be paid prior to Commencement.

So where are you allowed to smoke or vape?

Smoking is permitted underneath the trees in front of Praterstrasse 21 where you can find ashtrays and benches, and past the Palais Wenkheim boundaries outside of the Spar supermarket.

This policy exists in an effort to protect our community from serious health risks and adverse environmental effects of cigarette smoking and vaping. Your cooperation (which again, is mandatory) contributes to a healthy campus and respectful neighborhood.

WVPU seeks to provide for the safety of students, faculty, staff and visitors and our campus by eliminating or reducing threats of violence in our Webster learning, living and working environment. The university is committed to maintaining this environment free from dangerous weapons, violence and/or threats of violence. This worldwide Campus Violence and Weapons policy includes all Webster university campuses and applies to all full-time and part-time students and employees of the University, all contract workers on University premises, and to all visitors to University locations.

13. Services for Students

At Webster Vienna, we are committed to delivering high-quality, transformative learning experiences, which is why we have offices and departments dedicated to providing personal and academic services to our students. Finding the information you need, when you need it, can smooth the path from application to graduation and improve your whole university experience.

WVPU provides the following services for our students:

Student Counseling Service
Student Resource Center
Career Services
Academic support services, such as learning support service, advising and faculty mentoring, Language Center, Methods and Quant Center and library service.

14. FAQs

WVPU provides an extensive set of frequently asked questions on Connections, Webster’s intranet, about academics, advising, student life, financial matters and IT. These questions are regularly updated.

Undergraduate

Graduate

Student Handbook

1. Introduction

2. Academic Policies

Topics of Interest

Absence

Academic Honesty

Academic Load Status (Full- vs. Part-Time)

Academic Overloads

Academic Progress

Add, Drop and Withdrawal Policy

Archival/Retention of Student Work

Attendance

Auditing of Classes Policy

Alumni

Corporate Partners

Current Students

Degree Revocation Policy

Revocation due to Academic Misconduct

Revocation due to Administrative Error

Email Communication

Exams (Rescheduling and Make-Up Exams)

Grading

Grading Appeals

Grading Standards

Incomplete (I) Grades and Late Work

Research Methods Coursework

Research Methods Roadmap

Student Code of Conduct

Thesis

Tuition Payment

3. Code of Conduct and Related Procedures

Academic Honesty

Respectful Interaction

Integrity and Accountability

Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest

Relationships and Recusals

Among employees

Between employees and students

Conflict Resolution

Use of University Resources

What To Do

Conduct and Grievance Procedures

1. Introduction

2. Academic Integrity

2.1. Procedures in cases of student academic misconduct

2.2. Faculty Academic Integrity

2.3. Academic misconduct in previously earned degrees

3. Grievance Procedures

3.1. Definitions, scope, and applicability

3.2. Principles

3.3. Employee Grievance Procedures

3.4. Student Grievance Procedure

4. Student Conduct Procedures

4.1. Reports of alleged violations

4.2. Confidentiality and records

4.3. Administrative proceeding

4.4. Student Conduct Board

4. WVPU Study and Examination Guidelines

1. Course Types and Formats

2. Course Assessment Standards and Norms

3. Course Assessment Appeals

4. Examination Assessment Standards and Norms

5. Examination Scheduling Standards and Norms

6. Grading Standards of Webster University and Their Austrian Equivalents

Undergraduate Letter Grades (letter grade and Austrian equivalent)

Undergraduate Letter Grades (letter grade and Austrian equivalent)

Additional WVPU grading options

5. WVPU Thesis Guidelines

Introduction

Universal Rules, Including Registration, Preparation and Assessment

Universal rules

Universal registration rules

Universal preparation rules

Universal assessment rules

Undergraduate Thesis Rules, Registration and Assessment

Undergraduate thesis rules

Undergraduate thesis registration

Undergraduate thesis assessment