Guidelines on the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Theses and Dissertations

Generally Permissible Uses of Gen AI

Editorial Assistance:
Gen AI tools may be used to:

1. Correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
2. Format margins, headings, and citations in accordance with specified style guides.
3. Provide writing style suggestions, such as shortening lengthy sentences or clarifying jargon, without altering the original intended meaning.

Research on Gen AI:
If the thesis or dissertation involves research on Gen  AI, it is permissible to include examples of Gen AI content, provided that:

1. All examples of the Gen AI generated content are clearly identified in the student’s thesis or dissertation.
2. All examples of Gen AI generated content are cited appropriately and acknowledgements are provided. 

Using Gen AI to Generate Ideas and Approaches:
Generally, Gen AI tools may be used in the student’s development of ideas or approaches as follows: 

1. Brainstorming: While a student’s ideas should be their own, they may wish to use Gen AI tools to assist in brainstorming by, for example, asking general questions about a particular topic and existing approaches, narrowing down broad ideas or concepts (or broadening overly narrow ones), organizing or simplifying multiple ideas and thoughts, or to find connections between multiple ideas. 
2. Initial Survey of Literature: Students may wish to gain an initial, broad understanding of existing approaches or literature on a particular subject. While not a replacement for library or scholarly databases, Gen AI tools may be used to generate summaries of literature or annotated bibliographies to serve as a starting point in finding scholarly sources related specifically to the student’s core concept or area of interest. Summaries generated by a Gen AI tool should be reviewed for accuracy.

However, if using a Gen AI tool in either of these capacities, students are advised to first read the Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence, available at [insert hyperlink].

Authorization and Disclosure of Gen AI Use 

Advisor and Committee Written Approval: 
Prior to using Gen AI tools in any capacity beyond the permissible uses outlined above, such as in data analysis, content generation, or other substantive contributions, students should obtain written approval from their advisor and advisory committee.

Disclosure Statement:
Any use of Gen AI tools for which approval has been granted should be disclosed clearly in the thesis or dissertation by including: a description of the AI tools used, the extent and purpose of their use, and proof of approval from the advisory committee.

Academic Integrity and Honesty 
The unauthorized use of Gen AI tools, such as presenting Gen AI research or writing as the student’s own original work and/or without proper acknowledgements and citations, may constitute academic misconduct (see USRR Article II.)   and may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal from the student’s academic program. The use of Gen AI tools on written qualifying or comprehensive exams is prohibited, unless explicitly allowed in the unit’s graduate handbook or explicitly required in an exam question prompt.

Publishing and Intellectual Property
Students should be aware of potential intellectual property issues related to Gen AI  content, including ownership rights and the use of proprietary data. Prior to publishing, students should familiarize themselves with the individual publisher’s standards and policies regarding the use, or prohibition, of Gen AI.  

General Recommendations for Graduate Students

1. Review the University’s Guidelines for Responsible Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence. 
2. Engage in open discussions with advisors and committee members about the use of Gen AI tools in your research and writing process. 
3. Stay informed of evolving University, school/college, and department/unit policies and guidelines regarding the use of Gen AI tools.