THE UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK
THE STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNIVERSITY
AND COMMISSIONER OF EDUCATION
ALBANY. NEW YORK 12234

July 16, 1980
NO. 80-15

Subject: Code of Ethics for Advertising

The Commissioner's Advisory Group on Postsecondary Regulations recently discussed ways of assuring that degree-granting institutions maintain high standards in their advertising and recruitment efforts. The Group decided that a code of ethics, rather than new regulations, was the better way of monitoring institutions as they compete for students in the face of declining enrollments. The Commissioner’s Advisory Group adopted the attached code of ethics on March 25, 1980.

The code has been endorsed by the leadership of each of the four major sectors of higher education in New York State. Degree-granting institutions are urged to adhere closely to the standards set forth in this code of ethics. The Education Department will handle complaints concerning violations of the code. The Department's role will be to review alleged violations; and call justified complaints to the attention of the offending institution's Chief Executive Officer. The institution will be urged to bring its advertising and recruitment efforts into conformity with the code.

A code of ethics, rather than a regulation, has been selected because New York's colleges and universities have generally exercised self-restraint in this area. However, the pressure of declining enrollments has led some institutions to use advertising and recruiting techniques which are inappropriate. It is hoped that together we can quickly correct any such activities by calling attention to the code of ethics.

Any questions concerning the code of ethics, or any complaints concerning advertising, promotional literature, or recruitment activities, should be directed to the Bureau of Academic Information and Reports, State Education Department, Cultural Education Center, Albany, New York 12230 or by calling (518) 473-1215.

Note: the following individuals signed the original document:
Gordon M. Ambach, Commissioner of Education
Robert J. Kibbee, Chancellor, City University of New York
James J. Whalen, Chairman, Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities
Clifton R. Wharton, Jr., Chancellor, State University of New York
Gerald J. Wright, President, Association of Private Degree-Granting Institutions

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