Topic

Honor Code

Brigham Young University along with BYU–Hawaii, BYU–Idaho, and LDS Business College are private educational institutions owned, led, and funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Their purpose is to provide quality higher education in an environment that fosters spiritual growth and gospel living. As such, one of the requirements for admission or employment at BYU and other Church schools is a willingness to commit to live a specific set of standards.

The Honor Code—which has been an important part of BYU since its founding—includes policies that require having academic honesty; obeying civil law; living the law of chastity; abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, coffee, tea, and substance abuse; using clean language; adhering to modest dress and grooming standards; and being an active Church member (for LDS students and employees). While some of these elements are common to all universities, many are unique to BYU and, as such, have attracted special attention.

Commitment to the Honor Code is voluntary and reflects the desire and willingness of individuals to contribute to the environment of BYU, which seeks to be in harmony with the doctrines and standards of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Living the Honor Code on and off campus—especially when it is not being enforced—also demonstrates a sense of personal integrity.

These BYU devotionals from university administrators, Church leaders, and others defend the Honor Code and the principles within it. The speakers encourage individuals, as well as the general community of BYU, to live their commitments to the Honor Code. Most important, they expound on the principles of the honor and integrity that each of us needs to develop—not just at BYU but in all aspects of our lives.

C. Shane Reese | September 12, 2023

When we accept God’s plan and timing, we can strengthen our connections with others and know there are no coincidences in the work of the Lord.

devotional 2023

C. Shane Reese | August 28, 2023

BYU employees can be “quick to observe” like Mormon was by seeking and obeying gospel doctrines and prophetic counsel.

university conference 2023

Cecil O. Samuelson | September 12, 2006

Why is the Honor Code important? While we must focus on the more important aspects of it, we cannot afford to ignore the "little things" too.

devotional 2006

Ruth E. Brasher | May 30, 1995

Ruth E. Brasher, director of the BYU Honor Code Office, shares insights into the dangers of separating agency from accountability.

devotional 1995

President Gordon B. Hinckley, prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Gordon B. Hinckley | October 18, 1994

Codes of behavior are not new or out-of-date. The BYU Honor Code fosters honesty, charity, purity, modesty, and commitment.

devotional 1994

Jeffrey R. Holland - Mormon Apostle - and Patricia T. Holland

Jeffrey R. and Patricia T. Holland | September 2, 1980

Understanding the mission of BYU means more than keeping certain standards. It means taking your education seriously and being true to your faith.

devotional 1980

Dallin H. Oaks—first counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Dallin H. Oaks | September 5, 1978

Where much is given, much is expected, not only in scholastic achievement and developing talents but also in conduct and the way we present ourselves.

devotional 1978

Dallin H. Oaks | September 23, 1971

The dress and grooming standards at BYU are based on standards of modesty and propriety—which are not the same, but which both help you to respect yourself.

devotional 1971