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Our Commitment to Accuracy and Integrity

The Importance of the Misrepresentation Policy and Procedures at Cheyney

Ƶ is committed to providing accurate, honest, and transparent information in every communication we share with students, families, and the public. Federal regulations outline three key areas in which institutions must not misrepresent information: the nature of educational programs, the institution’s financial charges, and the employability of graduates. The U.S. Department of Education further prohibits colleges and universities from making any false, erroneous, or misleading statement—whether written, spoken, visual, or delivered through any other medium—to students, prospective students, the public, accrediting bodies, state agencies, or federal agencies. Upholding these standards is essential to maintaining trust, supporting informed decision-making, and protecting the integrity of the Cheyney experience.

What Counts as Misrepresentation?

The U.S. Department of Education defines misrepresentation as any false, erroneous, or misleading statement made directly or indirectly to a student, prospective student, member of the public, accrediting agency, state agency, or the Department of Education.

A statement is considered “misleading” if it has the likelihood or tendency to deceive or confuse, and it includes all methods of communication:

  • Written materials
  • Websites or social media
  • Visual content
  • Oral statements
  • Testimonials (including those given under pressure or as a condition of participation)

Substantial Misrepresentation

Federal regulations define substantial misrepresentation as any communication on which a person could reasonably be expected to rely, or has relied, to their detriment.

Cheyney’s Commitment to Accuracy & Transparency

Ƶ strives to provide accurate, honest, and clear information in all formats—print, digital, broadcast, and in-person presentations. We hold ourselves to a high standard of integrity and work diligently to ensure that no communication misrepresents the University’s programs, costs, or outcomes. As part of that commitment, we follow the U.S. Department of Education’s requirements outlined in 34 C.F.R. §§ 668.71–75, which define and prohibit any form of misrepresentation or substantial misrepresentation.

Who This Policy Applies To

This responsibility extends to all individuals and organizations representing Ƶ in any capacity. Employees, contractors, vendors, partner organizations, and third parties acting on the University’s behalf must ensure that all marketing, recruitment, admissions, advertising, and educational communications uphold the highest standards of truth and clarity. Additionally, CU may not state or imply—directly or indirectly—that participation in federal programs indicates endorsement of the quality of our academic offerings by the U.S. Department of Education.

Misleading by Omission

These standards apply not only to what is said, but also to what may be omitted in ways that could mislead or confuse current or prospective students, families, the public, or our partners. If an omission creates a misleading impression or results in incomplete or unclear understanding, it may constitute misrepresentation. Cheyney is committed to ensuring that information is presented fully and contextually, so that students and the public can make informed decisions.

Clarifying Our Relationship with the U.S. Department of Education

Ƶ may never suggest—implicitly or explicitly—that participation in federal programs means the U.S. Department of Education endorses, approves, or guarantees the quality or outcomes of our educational programs. CU’s participation in federal programs is administrative in nature and must not be represented as an indicator of quality or ranking.

Zero Tolerance Policy

Violations of this policy may result in corrective action, including employee retraining and disciplinary action, to ensure that misrepresentation does not recur.

 

Reporting Concerns

If you believe misrepresentation may have occurred, please report it immediately:

Ƶ Public Relations – publicrelations@cheyney.edu

All concerns will be reviewed promptly and handled in accordance with University policy.

Regulation

Ƶ’s Misrepresentation Policy is grounded in federal requirements established by the U.S. Department of Education. The following regulations outline the standards all institutions must follow to ensure accuracy, honesty, and transparency in communications to students, families, partners, and the public:

34 CFR § 668.71 — Purpose and Scope of Misrepresentation Regulations

34 CFR § 668.72 — Misrepresentation of the Nature of Educational Programs

34 CFR § 668.73 — Misrepresentation of Financial Charges

34 CFR § 668.74 — Misrepresentation of Employability of Graduates

34 CFR § 668.75 — Procedures for Addressing Substantial Misrepresentation

These federal regulations define what constitutes false, misleading, or deceptive statements, set expectations for institutional behavior, and outline the consequences for substantial misrepresentation. Ƶ adheres to these regulations fully and incorporates them into our policies, training, and oversight practices to ensure the accuracy and integrity of all communications.