A Court Case Analysis Of Administrative Versus Faculty Grading Rights

Abstract

Since 1940, when the AAUP formally defined academic freedom (AAUP, 1984), most faculty members believe they have the final authority in assigning course grades to their students.  Faculty members may be surprised that several recent court decisions have concluded that college and university administrators have the right to change grades initially assigned by faculty.  This manuscript examines faculty members’ rights to assign student grades within the context of academic freedom.  Several important recent court decisions on student grading and grade changes are summarized and discussed.  Based on these decisions, recommendations are made for both faculty and college and university administrators regarding the assignment of student grades and the student grade appeals process.