Classified Research

UNT does not possess a government security clearance and cannot act as a corporate entity to possess classified material. It is the policy of the University not to accept agreements which require access to classified data, require University employees to obtain security clearances, or restrict the dissemination of the results. Rare exceptions to this general policy with respect to classified research may be made only with prior approval of the VPRI. In such cases, the following additional considerations apply: 

• All such exceptions must be reported in writing to the VPRI prior to execution of a contract or acceptance of a grant. 
• Whenever possible, the University shall retain the right to disclose the existence of the proposed research and the identity of the sponsor. 
• Students may participate in approved classified research, as long as this participation does not significantly impede their progress toward a degree, and no thesis or dissertation submitted in fulfillment of degree requirements may be classified, in whole or part. 
• Consulting and other external activities involving classified research are not prohibited, as long as they are consistent with the University’s Policy on External Professional Activities for Pay. 
• In times of national emergency, rapid access to campus expertise or facilities may be required by government agencies for purposes other than long-term research. Permission for such short-term access may be granted by the VPRI.