Adherence to the Code of Conduct is an integral part of being certified under the USDLA/Quality Standards program.  This is both a condition for USDLA/QS certification and is a visible means of accountability.

The Code not only promotes sound, ethical principles of operation, but also fosters a culture of excellence and improvement which is vital to an institution’s long-term prosperity.  It serves as a guide to ethical practice and provides a useful framework for accountability as well as for the resolution of issues which may arise at an institution.

The Code is written as a set of guiding principles.  In this way, it is responsive to the diverse global e-learning community.  The principles of the Code enable consideration across a range of issues.

A certified institution shall:

1. Conduct its activities according to high ethical principles.  These include, but are by no means limited to, honesty, trustworthiness, and an intrinsic respect for the individual.  Integrity must be ingrained and supported throughout the institution.
   
   Three areas of particular concern are noted below.  Thus, the school will:
   • a. Operate in a non-discriminatory manner, practicing the principles of equality, tolerance, respect, and equal justice.  This precludes favoritism on the basis of race, gender, religion, age, disability, or national origin.
   • b. Respect intellectual property rights including those of vendors, content providers, faculty, and staff.
   • c. Respect privacy rights.  The school must clearly display its policy concerning the collection and use of personal data.  The institution shall safeguard the privacy and integrity of personal data.
2. Comply with the applicable legal and administrative requirements of the jurisdictions in which it operates.
3. Offer distance learning programs which conform to generally accepted norms for the courses of study being offered.  These programs shall include an appropriately credentialed faculty, curricular content that reasonably compares to similar programs of established quality, pertinent educational services such as direct or electronic access to library or counseling resources, and evidence of educational effectiveness as demonstrated by the performance of students and graduates.
4. Communicate openly and honestly with prospective students, students, and the public.  Doing so not only encompasses technical accuracy (“honesty”) but also the sufficiency of information (“openness”) needed to make fair and accurate judgments.
5. Honor promises, commitments, and contractual obligations on a timely basis.  Should disputes arise, resolve them in a fair and equitable manner.

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