* Fraud or Misrepresentation: This is the most common reason. It includes submitting falsified documents during the application process (e.g., fake transcripts, false claims of experience), plagiarism on a significant scale leading to the award of the degree (not just individual assignments), or significant misrepresentation of oneself to gain admission or maintain enrollment.
* Violation of University Policies and Code of Conduct: This encompasses a broad range of actions, including:
* Serious disciplinary offenses: Examples include severe breaches of student conduct codes, such as violent crimes, sexual assault, hate crimes, or serious drug offenses. The severity of the offense and the university's policies will determine whether degree revocation is warranted.
* Academic dishonesty beyond plagiarism: This could involve cheating on exams, collusion, or fabrication of research data on a substantial scale affecting the overall qualification for the degree.
* Falsification of information on official university documents: This extends beyond application materials to include things like research grants or financial aid applications.
* Professional Misconduct (Post-Graduation): In some cases, a university might revoke a degree if a graduate is later found to have engaged in serious professional misconduct that directly relates to their studies or the field of their degree. This is less common and usually requires demonstrable harm caused and a strong connection between the misconduct and the awarded degree. For example, a medical doctor found guilty of gross negligence or fraud might have their medical degree revoked by their university as well.
* Substantial Errors in the Awarding Process: Though rare, if a university discovers a significant procedural error or administrative oversight in the awarding of a degree that would invalidate the credential, it might be revoked.
Important Considerations:
* Due process: Universities are generally required to provide due process to students before revoking a degree. This usually includes an investigation, a hearing, and an opportunity to appeal the decision.
* Burden of proof: The university carries the burden of proving that the grounds for revocation are valid and that the appropriate procedures have been followed.
* University policy: Specific policies and procedures for degree revocation vary significantly between universities.
In summary, while degree revocation is unusual, it's a power universities retain for serious breaches of trust, academic integrity, or legal standards. It is almost always reserved for cases far more serious than minor infractions.