Why universities need to conduct background checks

Universities are hubs for adults who want to further their learning, but they are also very unique environments, with students, professors, and tutors all merging together on campus. Due to this dynamic and the complexities it brings up, it’s important universities conduct thorough background checks on all of their staff.

The unique power dynamics of higher education

While university students are legally adults, the power dynamics between staff and students is imbalanced. Professors, teaching assistants, and administrative staff hold significant influence over students’ academic outcomes – they are inherently in a position of immense power. However, it doesn’t mean that this imbalance is negative – it actually facilitates mentorship. Consequently, it means that staff must be held to a high standard of conduct (in fact, most universities will have a code of conduct for staff). Universities therefore have a duty to ensure that their staff are qualified and trustworthy as inevitably, they are in positions that demand said trust.

Why background checks are essential for universities

Protects students from harm

Although rare, there have been high-profile cases where individuals with a history of misconduct were hired by universities, only for them to abuse their position of power and harm students and other staff. Background checks help identify prior criminal behavior, including sexual misconduct, harassment, fraud, or any conduct that could threaten student safety. Ensuring that staff with such histories are not placed in positions of influence over students is a vital protective measure to safeguard both students and staff alike.

Case study: University of Cambridge

A recent case of staff misconduct happened at one of the most infamous – and often seen as prestigious – universities in the world: the University of Cambridge. Between the academic years 2018-2024, six student complaints were made against staff regarding sexual harassment and misconduct. However, the university only dismissed one member of staff; five other staff members were allowed to continue working despite their misconduct. A thorough background check could have prevented this from ever happening – if the university had done their due diligence, they might have seen a pattern of behaviour that would’ve dissuaded them from hiring the staff members in the first place.

Helps uphold academic and institutional reputations 

A university's academic and institutional reputation are arguably what attract students – they want to know that they’re going to a prestigious institution. Discovering that an employee has a history of falsifying credentials or has been involved in academic dishonesty can damage a university’s reputation and call into question the validity of its academic output. Background checks can verify academic qualifications and professional licences and therefore help to maintain a university’s reputation and integrity.

Promotes university’s commitment to accountability

Requiring background checks sets a clear expectation that all members of the university community are held to a standard of ethical conduct and transparency. It reinforces the message that safeguarding is a shared priority, and that the university takes its duty of care to everyone on campus seriously.

Fair screening

Of course, conducting background checks must be done thoughtfully. It’s essential that the process respects individual privacy, avoids discrimination, and includes opportunities for individuals to explain any flagged concerns. 

Universities should also be transparent about their screening policies, ensure consistency in their application, and continually review their practices in line with evolving legal and ethical standards.

Building a safe campus for everyone

Ultimately, background checks are about putting preventative measures in place to create the safest, most supportive environment possible. In a setting where trust, mentorship, and vulnerability are all key aspects of the student experience, ensuring that those in positions of power are vetted appropriately is absolutely vital. By conducting background checks, universities can help students focus on what really matters – studying, learning, and enjoying a unique time in their lives.