This Code of Conduct establishes clear procedures and guidelines to ensure that Concordia University Chicago and any associated representatives, partners, or organizations act ethically and transparently in all recruitment, marketing, and lead generation activities. It applies to the institution, its employees, agents, contractors, and any third parties engaged in recruitment or promotional activities on behalf of the institution.
The CUC Admission staff adheres to the following:
Core Principles
- Transparency: All recruitment and marketing communications must be honest, clear and accurate.
- Respect: Prospective students must be treated with dignity and provided with sufficient time and resources to make informed decisions.
- Integrity: The institution must act in good faith, avoiding any practices that could mislead, pressure, or coerce prospective students.
Prohibited Practices
- False or Misleading Statements: Providing inaccurate information regarding program costs, accreditation, job placement rates, financial aid, or transferability of credits.
- High-Pressure Tactics: Requiring immediate decisions, offering misleading "limited time" promotions, or using coercive language to compel enrollment.
- Targeting Vulnerable Individuals: Exploiting prospective students who are under duress, financially unstable, or otherwise vulnerable.
- Unethical Incentives: Offering unapproved gifts, monetary rewards, or other inducements to encourage enrollment.
Recruitment and Marketing
- Training and Oversight: All employees and contractors involved in recruitment must undergo regular training on ethical recruitment practices and applicable legal standards.
- Communication Standards: All promotional materials must be pre-approved by the institution’s compliance team to ensure accuracy. Recruitment Representatives must provide prospective students with comprehensive, documented information about programs, costs and support services.
- Interaction with Prospective Students: Representatives must give students sufficient time to review program details and consult with family or advisors.
- Partner and Third-Party Management: The institution must conduct due diligence on third parties involved in recruitment, ensuring alignment with ethical standards.
Enforcement
- Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary actions, including termination of employment or partnerships, depending on the severity of the breach.
- The institution will review this Code annually and update procedures as necessary to remain compliant with industry standards and regulations.
Concordia University Chicago is committed to fostering a culture of integrity and accountability. Regular audits and feedback from stakeholders will be used to refine recruitment practices and ensure they reflect the highest ethical standards.