Applying criminological theory to academic fraud

Purpose - This paper aims to examine academic dishonesty and research misconduct, two forms of academic fraud, and provides suggestions for future research informed by criminological theory. Design/methodology/approach - After reviewing prior literature, this paper outlines four general criminological theories that can explain academic fraud. Findings - While criminological theory has been applied to some studies of academic dishonesty, research misconduct has rarely been examined within a broader theoretical context. Practical implications - This paper provides a blueprint for future theoretically informed analyses of academic fraud. Originality/value - This paper represents a unique attempt to apply general criminological theories to diverse forms of fraud in higher education settings.