U of R investigates cheating allegations involving nursing students

The University of Regina said it is investigating around 50 cases of possible academic misconduct by nursing students during their final exams in December.

Last week, the U of R said about 1,200 students from the Saskatchewan Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing program wrote an estimated 4,800 final exams, and that the students being investigated represented about one per cent of the program’s total students.

“We can confirm that some of the investigations have determined that academic misconduct did occur, while others resulted in a determination that there was insufficient evidence to support a finding of misconduct,” said university spokesperson Paul Dederick.

Dederick added that not all investigations are complete and said any students found to have engaged in academic misconduct have a right to appeal the decision within 30 days.

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He said the U of R is responsible for the academic oversight of the program.

“The University is committed to ensuring the integrity of all our academic programs and will continue to take pre-emptive measures to prevent academic misconduct, and address suspected incidents when they are identified,” Dederick said.

University waiting for details on international student cap

Last week, the federal government announced a two-year cap on international student visas.

The university said it is working to obtain more information in order to determine the cap’s potential impact on undergraduate admissions, and said it didn’t yet have enough details to provide a response.

“We value our international students and recognize that we are strengthened both academically and culturally by the diverse worldviews and experiences they bring when they choose to learn, study, and grow at the U of R,” Dederick said.

“We plan to work closely with the province and our other partners in Saskatchewan’s post-secondary sector to ensure that international students continue to have a place at our institution.”