Knowing the Brigham Young University (BYU) policy on body art is crucial if you intend to attend or work there and have tattoos.

Owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, BYU is a private university with a distinctive set of policies called the Honor Code.

This code addresses attire and grooming rules as well as other facets of student and staff behavior.

Particularly tattoos are a major emphasis of these rules.

Let’s dissect the BYU tattoo policy and discuss possible implications for staff, teachers, and students.

BYU Tattoo Policy – at a Glance

• Strict Policy: BYU’s Honor Code discourages tattoos and promotes a conservative appearance.
• Cover Up: Visible tattoos should be covered with clothing or makeup.
• Community Perception: Tattoos are often judged, and some students feel out of place.
• Adherence Expected: Faculty, staff, and students are all expected to comply with the tattoo guidelines.
• Personal vs. Standards: Balancing tattoos with BYU’s values can be challenging but necessary.

The BYU Honor Code makes clear that tattoos are inappropriate and not welcome.

Consistent with university ideals, the dress and grooming rules stress keeping a neat and modest look.

Living by these values means that staff, teachers, and students themselves are urged to refrain from acquiring tattoos.

Although the Honor Code discourages visible tattoos generally, it does not completely forbid admittance or employment for persons with existing tattoos.

Tattoos are encouraged to be covered as much as possible most of the time.

What Does BYU Community Say?

Students and professors have varied experiences, hence the tattoo policy’s execution can change as well.

Many BYU students post tales on forums like Reddit about how others on campus view their tattoos.

Some students even say their tattoos make them feel judgmental or out of place.

Others said they have occasionally felt awkward when peers or professors have commented on their body art.

Some others, however, claim they have figured out how to negotiate the restriction without major problems.

Covering Up and Managing Tattoos at BYU

Covering is typically the easiest way for those with visible tattoos to meet BYU’s expectations.

Many students choose long sleeves, cosmetics, or other techniques to make sure their tattoos are hidden during class or university events.

Usually held to the same standards, faculty and staff members may have to cover visible tattoos while on duty.

Respecting the university’s ideals and following the Honor Code remain BYU’s top priorities.

Balancing Personal Expression and University Standards

For students and staff at BYU, balancing personal expression with the university’s strict standards can be challenging.

The Honor Code reflects BYU’s commitment to a particular set of values, which includes maintaining a clean and modest appearance.

Tattoos, even if personal or meaningful, are seen as inconsistent with these guidelines.

While some students and staff with tattoos find ways to fit in, it’s important to be aware of the cultural expectations on campus.

Final Thoughts

BYU’s tattoo policy is clear in its stance against visible body art.

The Honor Code sets a standard that reflects the university’s values, emphasizing modesty and professionalism.

Students and staff with tattoos are encouraged to cover them as a sign of respect for these standards.

Understanding and adhering to the tattoo policy is part of being a member of the BYU community.

While tattoos may be a personal form of expression, at BYU, the expectation is to prioritize the Honor Code’s guidelines.