UC Ethics and Compliance Briefing Resources

Purpose/Overview

The Ethics and Compliance Briefing helps employees develop awareness of UC’s Ethical Values and Standards of Ethical Conduct, evaluate the appropriate responses to situations they may encounter at the University, and to whom they can go for help when questions arise or they witness behavior inconsistent with our values.

Below you will find links to all resources identified in the UC Ethics and Compliance Briefing, including applicable policies, contact information for offices where you can seek help or report suspected misconduct, and other guidelines and resources.

UC Statement of Ethical Values and Standard of Ethical Conduct

University of California Statement of Ethical Values and Standards of Ethical Conduct

University of California Standards of Ethical Conduct (webpage)

Speak Up Culture: Ways to Report Suspected Misconduct

UC encourages employees to Speak Up and supports a culture where concerns can be shared openly. If something doesn’t seem right, there are several ways to make a report—and it’s okay if you’re not sure which one to use. Your report will be routed to the right office, and you’ll be informed if it’s redirected.

Making a Whistleblower Report

Under the Whistleblower Policy, you are encouraged to report incidents of suspected “improper governmental activities,” including any unlawful acts, significant policy violations, and specific types of workplace misconduct.

You have options for making a whistleblower report at UC. The easiest way is through the Whistleblower Hotline—available 24/7 in over 150 languages—by phone at 800-403-4744 or online. You can also report concerns to your Locally Designated Official, your manager, or another leader at your location. The Whistleblower Protection policy outlines your rights when you file a whistleblower report.

Reporting Other Types of Misconduct

Some behaviors may not qualify as 'improper governmental activities' under the Whistleblower Policy but are still inconsistent with UC Values and may have other reporting pathways. UC policies that address such concerns include:

These policies explain how to recognize and report issues, your protections against retaliation, and available confidential resources. Your location’s Title IX, Anti-Discrimination, HR, or Academic Personnel Offices are also available to help with questions.

Confidential Resources

If you would like to speak with someone confidentially before deciding whether to file a report, confidential resources are available at every UC location. Your local Ombuds Office provides a confidential, independent space to explore concerns and can help you identify the appropriate offices or other confidential resources available to assist you.

Note: Confidential resources do not share information with formal complaint or compliance processes, and speaking to a confidential resource will not initiate a formal report under the Whistleblower Policy.

Ethics, Compliance and Audit Services