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University of Salford A Greater Manchester University

Academic Regulations for Taught Programmes 2009/10

Governance Services Unit

University of Salford 09 Academic Regulations for Taught Programmes 2009-2010

09 Academic Regulations for Taught Programmes 2009-2010 - page 2 of 54

Introduction

The Academic Regulations for Taught Programmes (referred to here as the Regulations) are published as a separate printed booklet, as part of the Academic Quality Assurance Handbook and on the Governance website1.

The policies and procedures mentioned in the Regulations are included in the Academic Quality Assurance document and are indicated with italic type. Key terms within the Regulations are indicated with bold type the first or principal time they are used. Particular regulations which are new or have been amended for this academic year are indicated with a bullet in the left margin (where the bullet is adjacent to a numbered regulation then it applies to the whole regulation, otherwise the bullet only applies to the adjacent paragraph).

The Regulations are supplemented by two other documents: the Glossary, which defines the terms used in the Regulations; and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), written specifically for students with questions and answers about the rules related to their programme of study. These documents are published on the Governance website2. It is suggested that the link to the FAQs is disseminated to students perhaps through its inclusion in the programme handbook.

The Regulations apply to all taught provision at the University of Salford and to all students undertaking that provision unless an exception has been approved (1.1.1). The Regulations which apply are those for the current academic year, 2009/10, unless specified otherwise (see regulation 1.1.3). Where a School has any doubt about the applicability or interpretation of the Regulations in particular circumstances and/or wishes to apply for a specific exception the School should seek advice from the Governance Services Unit.

The development of the Regulations is an ongoing process which seeks to respond to the requirements of particular disciplines and the broader context, and to address issues raised in various parts of the University community. The development includes consultation and every effort is made to write the Regulations in as clear and accessible a style and format as possible, even though the subject matter is often very complex. The Regulations cannot cover every eventuality which a programme team might face. However, schools should always endeavour to operate within the spirit of the Regulations and seek advice when unusual or exceptional circumstances arise.

For further clarification and information please contact Stewart Smith-Langridge, ring 0161 295 9005 or e-mail [email protected]

Approved by Senate: June/September 2009

Published: September 2009

1 http://www.governance.salford.ac.uk/page/aqa_handbook 2 http://www.governance.salford.ac.uk/page/guidance

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.governance.salford.ac.uk/page/aqa_handbook

http://www.governance.salford.ac.uk/page/guidance



Contents

1 Application of the Regulations 5

1.1 Scope 5

1.2 Exceptions 5

2 Qualifications awarded by the University of Salford 7

2.1 Qualifications 7

3 Modular framework for taught programmes 9

3.1 Modules 9

3.2 Programmes 10

4 Specification and approval of modules and programmes 15

4.1 Module specification 15

4.2 Approval and amendment of modules 16

4.3 Programme specification 16

4.4 Approval, re-approval and amendment of programmes 18

4.5 Collaborative provision 19

5 Information on taught provision 21

5.1 Information provided by the University 21

5.2 Information provided by schools 21

6 Admission of students 23

6.1 Admissions process 23

6.2 Entry requirements 23

6.3 Entry via Accreditation of Prior Learning 23

6.4 Entry with advanced standing via Accreditation of Prior Learning 24

6.5 Advanced entry 24

6.6 Stand-alone modules 25

7 Registration and enrolment 27

7.1 Registration on programmes 27

7.2 Enrolment on modules 27

7.3 Transfer 27

7.4 Extensions on a Masters programme 28

7.5 Interruption of study 28

8 Assessment of modules 29

8.1 Assessment scale 29

8.2 Assessed work 29

8.3 Personal Mitigating Circumstances 30

8.4 Unfair means 30

8.5 Component mark or grade 32

8.6 Module mark 32



8.7 Module grade 33

8.8 Reassessment and retakes 33

9 Credit, progression and qualifications 37

9.1 Level mark 37

9.2 Award of credit and compensation 37

9.3 Progression 39

9.4 Award of qualifications 40

10 Classification, distinction and merit 43

10.1 Programme mark 43

10.2 Classification of Honours Degree and Integrated Masters Degree 44

10.3 Masters Degree with Distinction or Merit 44

11 Boards of Examiners 45

11.1 Functions of Boards of Examiners 45

11.2 Constitution of Boards of Examiners 45

11.3 External examiners 45

11.4 Conduct of Boards of Examiners 46

11.5 Ratification and decisions 47

12 Communication of results 49

12.1 Results 49

12.2 Information communicated to students 49

13 Academic appeals 51

13.1 Submission of an appeal 51

Index 53


1 Application of the Regulations

1.1 Scope

1.1.1 The Academic Regulations for Taught Programmes, referred to here as the Regulations, shall apply in their entirety to all taught provision of the University of Salford and to all students undertaking that provision unless otherwise approved as an exception.

1.1.2 The Regulations for each year shall be approved annually by the Learning, Teaching and Enhancement Committee and Senate during the previous year.

1.1.3 The Regulations in force at any time shall be those for that academic year unless specified otherwise. When a student registers at the start of an academic year for a year of study the student shall sign up for the Regulations for that academic year. When a student registers part way through an academic year for a year of study the student shall sign up for the Regulations for that academic year which remain in force throughout the year of study. When a student resumes study after an interruption the student shall sign up for the Regulations and the programme and module specifications in force at the time of resumption.

1.1.4 The Regulations are intended to be used as a primary source of information. Alongside the Regulations, the University operates a wide range of institutional policies and procedures. Key aspects of these policies and procedures are incorporated within the Regulations and reference is made there to the full policy or procedure, which can be found in the Academic Quality Assurance Handbook.

1.1.5 Schools may operate guidelines and procedures which supplement the Regulations. In the event of a conflict between the Regulations and the guidelines or procedures of a school, other than approved exceptions, the Regulations are paramount.

1.1.6 • If any Regulation contravenes English law, whether generally or in its application to a particular student or students, the University may modify the Regulation in such manner as may be necessary to reflect the spirit and intention behind the Regulation but so that the Regulation complies with that law. If the Regulation (or relevant part of it) cannot be modified in this way then the Regulation (or relevant part) will not apply. The remainder of the Regulations will not be affected.

1.2 Exceptions

1.2.1 Approved exceptions to the Regulations shall be of two kinds, general exceptions and specific exceptions:

(a) General exceptions shall be approved as part of the Regulations and a list of them included within the Regulations.

(b) Specific exceptions shall be approved by Learning, Teaching and Enhancement Committee and a record kept by the secretary of the Learning, Teaching and Enhancement Committee. Where a school wishes to seek an exception it should in the first instance contact the Governance Services Unit.

1.2.2 The following general exceptions shall apply to the Regulations for 2009/10:

(a) Specified parts of the Regulations shall not apply to the Higher National Certificate and Higher National Diploma. Information on the guidelines governing these qualifications can be provided by the Governance Services Unit.



(b) The Regulations shall not apply to Research Qualifications. Information on regulations governing these qualifications can be found in the Research Award Regulations.

(c) The Regulations shall not apply to the Licentiate Diploma and Higher Doctoral Degrees. Information on the regulations governing these qualifications can be provided by the Governance Services Unit.

(d) The Regulations shall not apply to non credit bearing programmes, sometimes referred to as short courses. Information on such courses can be found in Quality Assurance Approval Procedures for Running Short Courses.

(e) Regulations 7.4.1 to 7.4.4, on extensions on Masters Degree programmes, shall not apply to students who entered a Masters Degree programme prior to 2006/07.

(f) Regulations 9.2.6 (c) and (g), on discretionary compensation, shall not apply to students who entered a programme prior to 2005/06.

(g) Regulations 9.3.4 and 9.3.5, on higher requirements for progression from Level 3 (formerly Level 0), shall not apply to students who entered Level 3 (then Level 0) prior to 2008/09.

(h) A Board of Examiners may exceptionally exercise discretion in the class of degree awarded as set out in the Regulations for 2006/07 (10.2.3) where a student has entered Level 2 (now Level 5) of an Honours Degree programme or an Integrated Masters Degree Programme prior to 2006/07 (see Regulation 10.2.2).

(i) Regulation 10.3.3, on the award of a Masters Degree with Merit, shall not apply to students who entered a Masters Degree programme prior to 2007/08.



2 Qualifications awarded by the University of Salford

2.1 Qualifications

2.1.1 Qualifications of the University which may be awarded to students on completion of a taught programme of study shall be approved by the Learning, Teaching and Enhancement Committee and by Senate before a programme of study leading to the qualification shall be approved.

Qualification descriptors are set out in Qualification Nomenclature available on the Governance website3.

2.1.2 The qualifications of the University and their level within the QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (2nd Edition) are set out below.

University Foundation Certificate [UFdCert] Level 3

Higher National Certificate [HNC] a Level 4

Certificate of Higher Education [CertHE] Level 4

Diploma in Professional Studies b

Higher National Diploma [HND] a Level 5

Diploma of Higher Education [DipHE] Level 5

Foundation Degree Level 5

Foundation Degree in Arts [FdA]

Foundation Degree in Engineering [FdEng]

Foundation Degree in Science [FdSc]

Ordinary Degree Level 6

Bachelor of Arts [BA]

Bachelor of Engineering [BEng]

Bachelor of Laws [LLB]

Bachelor of Science [BSc]

Honours Degree Level 6

Bachelor of Arts with Honours [BA (Hons)]

Bachelor of Engineering with Honours [BEng (Hons)]

Bachelor of Laws with Honours [LLB (Hons)]

Bachelor of Science with Honours [BSc (Hons)]

Graduate Certificate [GradCert] Level 6

Graduate Diploma [GradDip] Level 6

3 http://www.governance.salford.ac.uk/page/guidance


http://www.governance.salford.ac.uk/page/guidance


Integrated Masters Degree Level 7

Master of Chemistry [MChem]

Master of Engineering [MEng]

Master of Environment [MEnv]

Master of Physics [MPhys]

Postgraduate Certificate [PgCert] Level 7

Postgraduate Diploma [PgDip] Level 7

Masters Degree Level 7

Master of Arts [MA]

Master of Business Administration [MBA]

Master of Enterprise [MEnt]

Master of Laws [LLM]

Master in Research [MRes]

Master of Science [MSc]

Masters Degree by research c Level 7

Master of Laws [LLM]

Master of Philosophy [MPhil]

Master in Research [MRes]

Master of Science [MSc]

Doctoral Degree by research c Level 8

Doctor of the Built Environment [DBEnv]

Doctor of Construction Management [DConsMgt]

Doctor of Musical Arts [DMA]

Doctor of Philosophy [PhD]

Doctor of Real Estate [DRealEst]

Engineering Doctorate [EngD]

Professional Doctorate [DProf]

Licentiate Diploma [LDip] c

Higher Doctoral Degree c

Doctor of Letters [DLit]

Doctor of Science [DSc]

a These qualifications are validated by EdExcel. b Only awarded in connection with a placement.

c These are not taught qualifications but are included here in order to provide a complete list of the qualifications of the University.



3 Modular framework for taught programmes

3.1 Modules

3.1.1 A module shall be designated at one of the following levels:

• Level 3

• Level 4

• Level 5

• Level 6

• Level 7

A module may not be designated at more than one level.

3.1.2 The size of a module shall be measured in credits, where 1 credit is equivalent to 10 hours of indicative learning time.

3.1.3 A module at Level 3, 4, 5 and 6 shall be assigned one of the following credit values:

10 credits

20 credits

30 credits

40 credits

50 credits

60 credits

3.1.4 A module at Level 7 shall normally be assigned one of the following credit values:

15 credits

30 credits

45 credits

60 credits

3.1.5 Where part of a programme is being offered jointly with another institution, a module at Level 7 may be assigned one of the following credit values:

10 credits

20 credits

3.1.6 A module shall also be assigned an ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) credit value based on the equivalence of 1 ECTS credit to 2 University of Salford credits.

3.1.7 A module shall be ½ a semester, 1 semester, 1½ semesters or 2 semesters long.

3.1.8 At Level 3, 4, 5 and 6 the following module shapes shall be permitted:

length in semesters

½ 1 1½ 2

10 credits

20 credits 30 credits 40 credits

50 credits 60 credits



3.1.9 At Level 7 the following module shapes shall be permitted:

length in semesters

½ 1 1½ 2



3.1.10 A module shall start at the beginning or mid-point of a semester and shall finish at the mid-point or end of a semester.

3.1.11 A module shall be delivered within a single academic year.

3.1.12 All teaching, revision and assessment shall take place within modules during the designated semester periods. All examinations shall take place at the designated times. Teaching, revision and assessment shall be arranged according to guidelines set out in the Academic Quality Assurance Handbook.

3.2 Programmes

3.2.1 Each taught programme shall comprise modules within one or more levels of the programme. Completion of a level of a programme is intended to lead to the achievement of learning outcomes commensurate with the FHEQ (2nd Edition) qualification levels:

• Programme Level 3 -

• Programme Level 4 FHEQ Level 4




3.2.2 The level of a programme shall normally be the same as the level of the modules which make up that level of the programme.

3.2.3 A level of a programme may be divided into stages. Stages shall be utilised when:

(a) the level of the programme comprises more than 120 credits, where the additional credits make up a separate stage;

or

(b) the level of the programme leads to more than one named qualification, where the credits leading to each qualification make up a separate stage.

3.2.4 A Masters programme shall comprise:

(a) a stage of 120 credits followed by a stage of 60 credits;

or

(b) three stages of 60 credits.

The final 60 credit stage shall be the Masters Project.

3.2.5 All placements shall take the form of credit rated modules.

3.2.6 Where a programme includes a placement the credit value of the placement may be additional to the standard credit requirements for such a programme, set out in regulation 3.2.23.



3.2.7 A top-up programme may be designed to enable a student, who has been awarded a credit bearing qualification by this University or another institution, to accumulate the additional credits necessary for a higher qualification.

3.2.8 A programme may incorporate one or more programmes leading to an intermediate terminating qualification if a significant number of students are likely to:

(a) register for the intermediate terminating qualification;

or

(b) register for the full programme but with the intention of leaving with the intermediate terminating qualification.

3.2.9 A Masters Degree programme (180 credits at Level 7) shall include a Postgraduate Diploma programme (120 credits at Level 7) as a named intermediate terminating qualification.

3.2.10 The final 60 credit stage of a Masters Degree programme shall comprise one of the following:

(a) a 60 credit module;

(b) a 45 credit module and a 15 credit module;

(c) two 30 credit modules.

3.2.11 A programme shall include modules for which a module mark is given with the following minimum overall credit values:

(a) For an Honours Degree programme:

60 credits at Level 4, 60 credits at Level 5 and 100 credits at Level 6;

(b) For an Integrated Masters Degree programme

60 credits at Level 4, 60 credits at Level 5, 120 credits at Level 6 and 120 credits at Level 7.

3.2.12 A module or modules may be included within a programme of study leading to a research qualification, as listed in regulation 2.1.2, so long as the modules comprise no more than one third of the total programme of study.

3.2.13 The title of a programme in combined subjects shall follow the conventions below at Levels 5, 6 and 7:

(a) A and B: 50 credits or more in each of A and B;

(b) A with B: 60 credits or more in A and 40 credits in B, or 70 credits or more in A and 30 credits in B.

In the case of a Masters Degree programme the conventions shall apply to the Postgraduate Diploma programme.

3.2.14 The title of a programme which includes a compulsory and integral placement shall indicate the existence of the placement, implicitly or explicitly.

3.2.15 The academic year shall comprise three semesters of equal length:

Semester 1

Semester 2

Semester 3 (only used for designated programmes)

Further guidance on the organisation of the academic year is provided on the University’s Governance website4

4 http://www.governance.salford.ac.uk/almanac


http://www.governance.salford.ac.uk/almanac


3.2.16 A full-time programme shall comprise modules or parts of modules distributed in a regular manner as follows:

(a) two semesters of 60 credits each (standard undergraduate programmes);

(b) three semesters of 40 credits each (designated undergraduate programmes);

(c) three semesters of 60 credits each (Masters programmes);

(d) two semesters of 60 credits or less but of equal size (placement years).

3.2.17 A part-time programme shall comprise modules, or parts of modules, worth less than 60 credits per semester, normally distributed in a regular manner. Normally, there will be between 30 credits and 45 credits per semester, subject to the provisions of regulation 3.2.16 (b).

3.2.18 All programmes shall include the possibility of a semesterised pathway at Levels 5, 6 and 7. Where modules cross semesters then alternative modules which do not cross semesters shall be available in their place.

3.2.19 Where an honours degree programme is offered in full-time mode a part-time equivalent programme shall be offered in parallel unless exemption is approved by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic).

3.2.20 A standard full-time programme shall not normally include concurrent study, where a student undertakes modules at the next level without having accumulated all the specified credits at the previous level.

3.2.21 A Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma may include concurrent study.

3.2.22 A programme may be designed so that concurrent study is an inherent feature of the programme or is necessary for the purpose of reassessment if:

(a) at least 60 credits can be obtained at one level before any modules are undertaken at the next level;

and

(b) the modules studied concurrently are at two adjacent levels.

3.2.23 The table below lists the main programmes leading to qualifications awarded by the University, their standard full-time length and their normal range of part-time lengths. It shows the programme levels and credit requirements, and the standard pattern of full-time delivery.

Foundation Certificate a 1 yr FT 1½ – 2 yrs PT

• Programme Level 3 120 credits at Level 3 FT Yr 1 (Semester 1,2)

Certificate of Higher Education a, c 1 yr FT 1½ – 2 yrs PT


Diploma of Higher Education a, c 2 yrs FT 3 – 4 yrs PT



Foundation Degree 2 yrs FT 3 – 4 yrs PT





Ordinary Degree a, b, c 2½ yrs FT 4 – 5 yrs PT



• Programme Level 6 60 credits at Level 6 FT Yr 3 (Semester 1)

Honours Degree a, b, c 3 yrs FT 4½ – 6 yrs PT




Honours Degree with placement (example) a, c 4 yrs FT 6 – 7 yrs PT


• Programme Level 5, Stage 1 120 credits at Level 5 FT Yr 2 (Semester 1,2)

• Programme Level 5, Stage 2 40 credits at Level 5 d FT Yr 3 (Semester 1,2)


Integrated Masters Degree b, c 4 yrs FT 6 – 8 yrs PT





Graduate Certificate a ½ yr FT 1 yr PT

• Programme Level 6 40 credits at Level 6 & FT Yr1 (Semester 1) 20 credits at Level 4, 5 or 6

Graduate Diploma a 1 yr FT 1½ – 2 yrs PT

• Programme Level 6 90 credits at Level 6 & FT Yr1 (Semester 1,2) 30 credits at Level 4, 5 or 6

Postgraduate Certificate a ½ yr FT 1 yr PT

• Programme Level 7 60 credits at Level 7 FT Yr 1 (Semester 1)

Postgraduate Diploma a 1 yr FT 1½ – 2 yrs PT


Masters Degree/PgDip e 1 yr FT 2 – 3 yrs PT

• Programme Level 7, Stage 1 120 credits at Level 7 FT Yr 1 (Semester 1,2)

• Programme Level 7, Stage 2 60 credits at Level 7 FT Yr 1 (Semester 3)

a may be awarded as an intermediate terminating qualification b may include a credit bearing placement c may include a Foundation Certificate programme as a foundation year d this is just an example, there is no standard credit value attached to a placement e may include a Graduate Diploma as an initial year



4 Specification and approval of modules and programmes

4.1 Module specification

4.1.1 For each module there shall be an approved module specification.

4.1.2 The module specification shall specify:

(a) the title of module;

(b) the subject code and JACS (Joint Academic Coding System) code;

(c) the course code;

(d) the level of the module;

(e) the credit value of the module;

(f) the ECTS (European Credit Transfer System ) credit value of the module;

(g) the length (in semesters) of the module and the semester(s) in which the module is offered;

(h) whether the module is new or existing;

(i) the title of any module which this replaces;

(j) the date from which the specification comes into effect;

(k) the School responsible for the module;

(l) the module co-ordinator(s);

(m) any programmes for which the module is approved;

(n) any pre-requisites;

(o) any co-requisites;

(p) the total contact or indicative learning hours for the module;

(q) the percentage taught by Schools other than the School responsible for the module;

(r) the aims of the module;

(s) the intended learning outcomes;

(t) whether the module is marked (i.e. a module mark is recorded, the default) or graded (i.e. a module grade is recorded) (NB if any of the components are marked then the module shall be given a module mark, but if all the components are graded then the module shall be given a module grade, see regulation 8.7.1);

(u) whether the module mark is calculated by Method A (the default) or Method B (see regulation 8.6.2 to 8.6.4) (NB if any of the components are graded then Method B shall be used);

(v) the components of the module that are assessed in chronological order;

(w) the teaching and learning strategies;

(x) an outline of the syllabus;

(y) indicative texts and/or other learning materials/resources.

Notes of guidance for the completion of a module specification are provided in the Programme Design, Approval and Amendment Procedure.

4.1.3 The module specification shall specify for each component in chronological order of submission or examination:

(a) the type of component (i.e. coursework, examination, etc);



(b) whether the component is marked (i.e. a component mark is recorded, the default) and in that case the weighting of the component as a percentage shall be specified (the weightings shall total 100% and a weighting of 0% shall not be used)

or

whether the component is graded (i.e. a component grade is recorded);

(c) if the module is assessed by Method B, then those components which have to be passed in order for the module to be passed shall be specified (NB any component that is graded must be passed in order for the module to be passed; where Method B is used and no components are specified it is assumed that all the components have to be passed) (see regulation 8.6.2 and 8.6.4);

(d) the length of the component (i.e. the word count for written work, the duration of an exam, or other measure if appropriate).

4.2 Approval and amendment of modules

4.2.1 A module specification shall be approved by the relevant programme approval and review sub-committee (and reported to the relevant faculty) before the module can be offered.

The process for the approval and amendment of modules is set out in the Programme Design, Approval and Amendment Procedure.

4.2.2 A module may be approved which is not part of a programme.

4.3 Programme specification

4.3.1 For each taught programme or group of cognate programmes there shall be an approved programme specification.

4.3.2 The programme specification shall specify:

(a) the awarding institution/body;

(b) where the programme is taught;

(c) the Faculty and School(s) responsible for the programme;

(d) any links with partner institutions;

(e) any accrediting body;

(f) the qualification(s);

(g) the FHEQ (Framework for Higher Education Qualifications) level of the qualification;

(h) the title of the programme;

(i) the length of the programme;

(j) the mode(s) of attendance/delivery;

(k) the year of commencement;

(l) the source of funding;

(m) the JACS code and any other relevant code;

(n) relevant external reference points;

(o) the aims of the programme;

(p) the entrance requirements;

(q) the allocation of responsibility for the administration of the programme where not wholly 'owned' by one school;



(r) the structure of the programme;

(s) the content of the programme;

(t) • the intended learning outcomes of the programme or part of the programme leading to each qualification, including named intermediate terminating qualifications and, optionally, a statement of the learning outcomes for each level and stage of the programme;

(u) the teaching, learning and assessment strategies for the programme;

(v) any assessed professional experience;

(w) any special features of the programme;

(x) requirements for progression at each level and the criteria on which the final qualification is based. Where the award of an intermediate terminating qualification named after the title of the programme would conflict with professional body requirements or be otherwise misleading then another name should be specified;

(y) arrangements for student support.

Notes of guidance for the completion of a programme specification are provided in The Programme Design, Approval and Amendment Procedure.

4.3.3 Within the programme specification the description of the programme structure (i.e. regulation 4.3.2 (r)), which may be in the form of a diagram, shall specify all the modules approved for the programme and state for each module:

(a) the credit value of the module;

(b) the level of the module;

(c) the length (in semesters) of the module;

(d) the semester(s) in which the module is offered;

(e) the level of study of the programme in which the module is located (normally this is the same as the level of the module);

(f) where the level of study of a programme is divided into stages, the stage in which the module is located;

(g) where a programme includes more than one qualification, the qualification towards which the module contributes;

(h) whether the module is core or optional;

(i) any other programme based restrictions on module choice;

(j) the eligibility of the module for compensation: at Level 3, 4, 5 or 6 a module may be fully eligible, partially eligible or not eligible for compensation; at Level 7 a module may be fully eligible or not eligible for compensation (if the eligibility is not specified the module shall be designated as fully eligible for compensation).

4.3.4 A requirement for progression on a programme from Level 3 to a route at Level 4 which is higher than the standard progression requirement may be specified (see also regulation 9.3.4). In this case the programme specification (i.e. regulation 4.3.2 (x)) shall designate:

(a) those routes at Level 4 for which the standard progression requirement does apply. There must be at least one route such that a student who achieves 120 credits at Level 3 can progress to a route at Level 4;

and for each route at Level 4 for which a higher progression requirement applies

(b) the Level 3 modules for which an attainment mark is calculated;

and



(c) the attainment mark that shall be achieved before a student shall be permitted to progress to Level 4.

4.4 Approval, re-approval and amendment of programmes

4.4.1 The approval process for programmes shall normally comprise two stages:

(a) outline approval by the relevant programme approval and review sub-committee (which shall be reported to the relevant faculty) and by the Academic Programmes and Partnerships Committee;

(b) detailed approval of the programme specification by the relevant programme approval and review sub-committee (which shall be reported to the relevant faculty).

The approval process for programmes is set out in the Programme Design, Approval and Amendment Procedure.

4.4.2 Schools shall ensure that all proposals for new or amended programmes are congruent with the Regulations.

Where a school wishes to submit a proposal which is not fully congruent the school should seek an exception to Regulations and make it clear that an exception is being sought (see regulation 1.2.1(b)).

4.4.3 A programme of study leading to a qualification awarded by the University shall not be advertised or applications to the programme permitted until:

(a) the programme has been approved in outline;

or

(b) exceptionally, permission has been given by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic).

4.4.4 An offer of a place on a programme of study leading to a qualification of the University shall not be made until:

(a) the programme has been approved in outline;

and

(b) the programme has been approved in detail.

4.4.5 A programme shall be reviewed annually. The annual programme monitoring and enhancement process is set out in the Internal Review Scheme.

4.4.6 A programme shall be periodically reviewed and re-approved in detail normally every five years and no more than every six years. The periodic programme review process is set out in the Internal Review Scheme.

4.4.7 A major amendment to a programme shall be approved in outline and in detail.

A minor amendment to a programme shall be approved at school level and reported to the faculty.

Definitions of amendments and the process for approving them are set out in the Programme Design, Approval and Amendment Procedure.

4.4.8 The withdrawal of a programme on academic grounds shall be approved by the Academic Programmes and Partnerships Committee. The withdrawal process is set out in the Procedure for the Withdrawal of Programmes.



4.5 Collaborative provision

4.5.1 Where a programme of study leading to a qualification awarded by the University is delivered in full or in part by a UK institution or organisation without degree awarding powers or by an overseas institution or organisation, the institution or organisation or a division of it shall be affiliated to the University. Affiliation is required in addition to the normal procedure for approval of modules and programmes.

The affiliation process is set out in Procedures on Partnerships and Collaboration.

4.5.2 Where affiliation is required the affiliation process shall be completed before the programme can be advertised or offered, or can recruit.

4.5.3 All programmes of study leading to a qualification awarded by the University delivered by an affiliated institution or organisation shall be conducted in accordance with the Regulations and the Procedures on Partnerships and Collaboration.

4.5.4 Where an affiliation agreement has reached the end of the agreed affiliation period the agreement shall be reviewed and where appropriate renewed.

4.5.5 Where arrangements take place between the University and any other institution or organisation which involve one or more of the following:

(a) entry, entry with advanced standing or advanced entry on to a programme of the University;

(b) facilitation of a distance learning programme offered by the University;

(c) off-campus delivery of a programme of the University;

(d) any other association which allows the institution to use the name of the University or to refer to any of its qualifications in any context;

the arrangements shall be conducted in accordance with the Regulations and the Procedure on Partnerships and Collaboration.



5 Information on taught provision

5.1 Information provided by the University

5.1.1 The University shall provide prospective students and other interested parties with information on programmes of study in the prospectus and other promotional material of the University and through other means.

A list of the information provided is set out in the Recruitment and Admissions Policies.

5.1.2 The University shall provide all new students prior to their arrival at the University with joining instructions and a University handbook, containing information on University services and sources of help and advice.

Additionally, the University shall provide all new international students and postgraduate students with University handbooks designed specifically for them.

5.1.3 The University shall advise all students with a disability and individual or additional requirements that they should be assessed and advised by the Disability Service in the Student Life Directorate. As a consequence they may receive additional arrangements in assessments and support to facilitate study within the resources available.

5.1.4 The University shall provide all staff and students with access to the Regulations and all documents referred to within them.

5.2 Information provided by schools

5.2.1 Each school shall maintain a 'baseroom' collection, as set out in the Information Held by Schools.

The 'baseroom' collection shall contain, as a minimum, information on:

(a) school organisation;

(b) teaching, learning and assessment;

(c) annual reports and minutes for the last three years.

5.2.2 Schools and faculties shall maintain a set of current programme specifications and module specifications.

5.2.3 Each school shall maintain a school handbook, as set out in the Information Held by Schools.

The school handbook shall contain, as a minimum, information on:

(a) school organisation;

(b) admissions and induction;

(c) programme management;

(d) assessment arrangements, including formal systems for the receipt of coursework which would enable a student to prove that assessed work was handed in;

(e) student support and guidance;

(f) staffing and resources.

5.2.4 Schools shall provide all students registered on a programme with a programme handbook at the commencement of the programme and normally at the



commencement of each subsequent level or year of study, as set out in the Information Held by Schools.

The programme handbook shall contain, as a minimum, information on:

(a) aims and intended learning outcomes of the programme;

(b) programme structure, including details of core modules, option modules, pre-requisite modules, pathways, module eligibility for compensation and any other conditions, as set out in the programme and module specifications, which may affect module enrolment;

(c) teaching, learning and assessment methods;

(d) assessment requirements;

(e) assessment procedures;

(f) staff details/sources of help;

(g) communication with students;

(h) responsibilities of students;

(i) reference to other specified relevant information.

5.2.5 Schools shall provide all students enrolled on a module with a module handbook or similar document at the commencement of the module.

The module handbook shall contain, as a minimum, information on:

(a) the assessment strategy, which should indicate how the learning outcomes will be assessed using assessment methods appropriate to their achievement;

(b) assessment details, including dates of examinations and deadlines for submission of coursework or any other assessment requirements;

(c) the reading list, and other learning materials and resources.

5.2.6 All assessment briefs which form part of a module assessment scheme shall be verified.

The procedures are set out in Internal Verification and Moderation.

5.2.7 Schools shall remind students that it is each student's own responsibility:

(a) to read and understand the information given to them on assessment requirements;

(b) to make staff aware of any circumstances affecting their ability to comply with these requirements.



6 Admission of students

6.1 Admissions process

6.1.1 The recruitment and admission of students to the University is informed by Recruitment and Admissions Policies.

An admissions good practice guide is available from the University Admissions Office.

6.2 Entry requirements

6.2.1 To be eligible for admission to a programme an applicant shall satisfy the General Entry Requirement and the specific entry requirement for the particular programme of study.

6.2.2 In addition, an applicant whose native tongue is not English shall satisfy the English Language Requirement.

6.2.3 Benchmark qualifications for satisfying the General Entry Requirements for the programmes of the University are set out in the General Entry Requirements for Admission to Programmes of Study. The General Entry Requirements are set for the following categories of programmes:

(a) Foundation Certificate, Foundation Degree, Higher National Certificate, Higher National Diploma;

(b) Certificate of Higher Education, Diploma of Higher Education, Ordinary Degree, Honours Degree, Integrated Masters Degree;

(c) Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma;

(d) Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, Masters Degree.

6.2.4 Heads of School shall ensure that the specific entry requirements for programmes are appropriately determined.

Specific entry requirements shall be set out in programme specifications, the prospectus and other promotional material of the University.

6.2.5 Benchmark qualifications for satisfying the English Language Requirement are set out in the Entry Requirements for Admission to Programmes of Study.

6.3 Entry via Accreditation of Prior Learning

6.3.1 An applicant who does not possess one of the qualifications which satisfies the General Entry Requirement may be admitted through the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL).

The procedures are set out in APL: An Institutional Policy Framework.

6.3.2 The Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) may be used for entry.

6.3.3 Advice and guidance for applicants regarding entry through APL shall be free of charge.



6.4 Entry with advanced standing via Accreditation of Prior Learning

6.4.1 A student may be permitted to enter a programme of study with advanced standing and awarded credit for specified modules or a level or stage of the programme through APL.

The procedures are set out in APL: An Institutional Policy Framework.

6.4.2 Credit may be awarded through APCL or APEL.

6.4.3 A student shall only be permitted to enter a programme of study with advanced standing through APL where:

(a) the responsible school considers that the learning previously undertaken will give the student the appropriate grounding to proceed to the relevant point in the programme and is equivalent to those modules which have been undertaken by students proceeding through the programme to that point;

and

(b) any module previously studied for which the student wishes to be awarded credit has been passed.

6.4.4 A student may be awarded credit for a module through APL where:

(a) the credit value of the modules for which credit is awarded through APL is no greater than two thirds of the total credit value of the qualification to which the programme leads;

and

(b) the modules for which credit is awarded through APL are modules which comprise the first two thirds of an entire programme leading to the qualification. Specifically, credit may not be awarded through APL for modules at Level 6 of an Honours Degree programme or modules which comprise the final 60 credit stage of a Masters programme.

The minimum overall credit values for modules for which marks shall be given are set out in regulation 8.6.9.

6.4.5 • A student may be awarded credit for a level or stage of a programme through APL where:

(a) the learning outcomes for the level or stage of the programme has been approved as part of the programme specification;

(b) the student has demonstrated through the APL process that they have met all the learning outcomes for the level or stage of a programme; and

(c) the level or stage for which credit is awarded does not comprise the final level or stage of an Honours Degree programme or the final stage of a Masters programme.

6.4.6 Any initial advice and guidance for students regarding the award of credit through APL shall be free of charge.

6.5 Advanced entry

6.5.1 A student may be permitted to enter a programme of study part way through the programme where:

(a) the student has successfully completed a previous programme of study, leading to a qualification in a cognate discipline, whose credit rating is no less than the credit rating of the programme to be entered up to the point of advanced entry;



and

(b) the point of advanced entry is the commencement of a level or stage of the programme to be entered.

6.5.2 For the purpose of entry onto an Honours, Ordinary or Foundation Degree programme:

(a) if a student has successfully completed a Higher National Diploma programme in a cognate discipline and normally has achieved merits or distinctions in the second year of the Higher National Diploma programme then the study for the Higher National Diploma may be rated at up to 120 credits at Level 4 and 120 credits at Level 5;

(b) otherwise, if a student has successfully completed a Higher National Diploma programme in a cognate discipline then the study for the Higher National Diploma may be rated at up to 120 credits at Level 4 and 60 credits at Level 5;

(c) if a student has successfully completed a Higher National Certificate programme in a cognate discipline then the study for the Higher National Certificate may be rated at up to 120 credits at Level 4.

6.6 Stand-alone modules

6.6.1 A student who meets the entry requirements or advanced entry requirements for a programme may be permitted to enrol on a stand-alone module within the programme.

6.6.2 A student who does not meet the entry requirements or advanced entry requirements for a programme may be permitted to enrol on a stand-alone module within a programme and a student may be permitted to enrol on a stand-alone module outside of a programme where the school is satisfied that the student:

(a) stands to benefit from the module;

(b) can cope with the assessments required;

and

(c) has the appropriate experience to a requisite level to warrant admission.

6.6.3 Where a student has passed a stand-alone module the student may use this as evidence of his or her capability:

(a) to undertake further stand alone modules;

or

(b) to be admitted onto a programme via APL.



7 Registration and enrolment

7.1 Registration on programmes

7.1.1 A student shall register each academic year on the programme of study to which he or she has been admitted before the student shall be permitted to undertake the programme.

7.1.2 A student shall not be permitted to register on more than one programme of study leading to a qualification at one time except with the special permission of the Registrar and Secretary.

7.1.3 The times and procedures for registration are prescribed by the University. Only with the special permission of the Registrar and Secretary may a student be permitted to register at other than the appointed time.

7.1.4 All registrations shall be considered as provisional by the University until full payment has been made of the tuition fees due for the academic year in question.

7.1.5 A student may with the special permission of the Registrar and Secretary be permitted to register conditionally on a programme for a specified period of time.

7.1.6 If a student does not pay or does not make satisfactory arrangements to pay his or her tuition fees then the student's registration for the academic year in question may be cancelled or the results of any assessments withheld.

7.1.7 If a student is in debt to the University for the previous academic year the student shall not be permitted to register for any academic year except with the special permission of the Registrar and Secretary.

7.1.8 At the time of registration all students shall sign a statement undertaking that they will conform with the provisions of the Regulations of the University.

7.1.9 The University reserves the right not to accept a late or incorrect registration or to cancel an incorrect registration.

7.1.10 A student whose registration is revoked shall not be permitted to register for a programme until the revocation is lifted.

7.2 Enrolment on modules

7.2.1 A student shall enrol each academic year on a valid set of modules for the programme on which he or she is registered before the student shall be permitted to undertake the modules.

7.2.2 A student may enrol on a stand-alone module outside of a programme.

7.3 Transfer

7.3.1 Where a programme leading to a qualification incorporates a programme leading to a lower qualification a student who is registered on either programme shall be permitted to transfer to the other programme.



7.3.2 A student who is registered on a programme may be permitted to transfer to another programme via the admissions process. The APL process may be used to recognise credit awarded for modules already undertaken.

7.4 Extensions on Masters programmes

7.4.1 A student undertaking the final 60 credit stage of a Masters programme shall be permitted two extensions.

[NB Regulations 7.4.1 to 7.4.4 shall not apply to students who entered a Masters Degree programme prior to 2006/07, see Regulation 1.2.2 (e)]

7.4.2 The length of the first extension shall be one third of the approved length of the programme.

The length of the second extension shall be one sixth of the approved length of the programme and shall be available on payment of a fee.

The total period for these two extensions shall be limited to a maximum of two years.

7.4.3 A student shall be permitted an extension during reassessment or when retaking a module so long as the overall number of extensions does not exceed two.

7.4.4 A student may submit a case of personal mitigating circumstances or take an interruption of study during an extension.

7.5 Interruption of study

7.5.1 A student may take an interruption in his or her programme of study. The period of interruption shall normally be up to one year and exceptionally up to two years.

The procedures for interruption of study are set out in the Academic Quality Assurance Handbook.

7.5.2 An interruption of study shall normally be granted following consultation between the student and the School concerning the appropriate point at which to interrupt study and recommence the programme.

7.5.3 Where a programme is to be discontinued or significantly amended it may not be possible to grant an interruption of study.

7.5.4 At the time a student interrupts study the student’s registration on the programme shall temporarily lapse.

7.5.5 At the time a student recommences study after an interruption the student shall re-register on the programme before he or she shall be permitted to continue on the programme.



8 Assessment of modules

8.1 Assessment scale

8.1.1 Student performance in coursework and examinations shall normally be assessed and recorded as a mark. All marks shall be in the form of a percentage (i.e. out of 100%).

8.1.2 At Level 3, 4, 5 and 6 the following marking scale shall be used:

outstanding 90% – 100%

excellent 80% – 89%

very good 70% – 79%

good 60% – 69%

fair 50% – 59%

adequate 40% – 49%

unsatisfactory 30% – 39%

poor 20% – 29%

very poor 10% – 19%

extremely poor 0% – 9%

Descriptors for the marking bands, which have been developed by Schools and which elaborate on the levels of performance identified in the marking scale in terms of disciplines, shall be used to inform marking.

8.1.3 At Level 3, 4, 5 and 6 markers in some disciplines may also make use of advisory class marking bands.

8.1.4 Student performance in coursework and examinations may be recorded as a grade of pass (P) or fail (F).

8.1.5 Where a student does not submit work (i.e. does not submit coursework, attend an examination or participate in some other form of assessment) then a non-submission (NS) shall be recorded.

8.2 Assessed work

8.2.1 Procedures for the conduct of University examinations are set out in the Code of Practice: Assessment Policies and Procedures, the Examination Rules and the Information for Invigilators of University Examinations.

8.2.2 All written examinations at programme levels 5, 6 and 7 shall be marked anonymously.

The procedures are set out in the Code of Practice: Assessment Policies and Procedures.

8.2.3 All assessed work (i.e. examination scripts and coursework assignments) at Level 5, 6 and 7 of a programme shall be moderated.

The procedures are set out in Internal Verification and Moderation.

8.2.4 Schools shall:

(a) have a system of receipting assessed work;

(b) have mechanisms for providing feedback on all assessed work;



(c) maintain a record of feedback provided.

The procedures are set out in Feedback on Assessed Work and the Retention of Assessed Work.

8.2.5 Where coursework is submitted late the following penalties for late work shall be applied to the mark for that work:

(a) if the work is up to 7 calendar days late then 10 marks shall be deducted, but if the work would otherwise pass then the mark for the work shall be reduced to no lower than the pass mark for the module;

(b) if the work is between 8 and 14 calendar days late then 20 marks shall be deducted, but if the work would otherwise pass then the mark for the work shall be reduced to no lower than the pass mark for the module;

(c) if the work is a fail and is up to 14 calendar days late then no penalty shall be applied;

(d) if the work is graded and is up to 14 calendar days late then no penalty shall be applied;

(e) if the work is more than 14 calendar days late then it cannot be submitted and shall be recorded as a non-submission (NS).

8.3 Personal Mitigating Circumstances

8.3.1 A student may submit a case of personal mitigating circumstances, regarding assessment, for consideration.

The procedures are set out in Personal Mitigating Circumstances.

8.3.2 A student who wishes to submit a case of personal mitigating circumstances shall put it in writing using the Personal Mitigating Circumstances Form. The form:

(a) should be submitted by the submission date for coursework and prior to a test or examination, and in any event shall be submitted prior to the date of the Personal Mitigating Circumstances Review Panel;

(b) shall normally be completed and submitted by the student;

(c) shall normally be supported by documentary evidence.

8.3.3 Where a case of personal mitigating circumstances is accepted for a component:

(a) if the claim is for the late submission of work then any penalties for late work for that component shall be removed and the module mark or grade shall be calculated in the normal way

(b) if the claim is for the standard of performance, non-submission of work or absence from an examination then the student shall be offered a replacement attempt for that component.

8.3.4 Where a student has accepted the offer of a replacement attempt for a component the original mark or grade for the component shall be voided and a replacement mark or grade shall subsequently be given for the component (see regulation 8.6.6)

8.4 Unfair means

8.4.1 The use of unfair means in coursework or an examination by a student is strictly forbidden and is likely to result in a severe penalty.

The University procedures concerning the use of unfair means in assessment are set out in the Policy on the Conduct of Assessed Work.



8.4.2 The use of unfair means in assessment to gain an unfair advantage can take a number of forms which are likely to fall into one or more of the following categories:

(a) plagiarism, which involves taking the work of another person and using it as if it were one's own;

(b) collusion, which involves working with others on tasks that should be carried out on an individual basis;

(c) falsifying experimental or other investigative results;

(d) taking unauthorised material into an examination;

(e) contracting another person to produce a piece of assessed work;

(f) copying from another person during an examination.

8.4.3 Cases of suspected use of unfair means in assessment shall be reported and investigated in accordance with the University procedures.

8.4.4 Where a student has been found to have used unfair means in assessment the following penalties shall normally be applied by the Discipline Committee:

(a) at Level 3 or 4: a module mark of 0% shall be awarded for the module(s) in question;

(b) at Level 5 or 6: a module mark of 0% shall be awarded for the module(s) in question and the module marks for all other modules at that level of the programme shall be limited to a maximum of 40%;

(c) at Level 7: the student shall be permanently expelled from the University, a mark of 0% shall be awarded for the module(s) in question and the marks for all other modules at Level 7 which have been taken shall be limited to a maximum of 50%;

(d) on a second occasion (i.e. after a penalty has previously been imposed on the student): the student shall be permanently expelled from the University, a mark of 0% shall be awarded for the module(s) in question and the marks for all other modules at that level of the programme which have been taken shall be limited to a maximum of the pass mark for the module.

(e) where a module is graded, if a penalty of 0% for the module mark would otherwise apply then a grade of F shall be awarded for the module and if a module mark would otherwise be limited to the pass mark for the module then the grade shall be unaffected.

It should be noted that the Discipline Committee and the Disciplinary Appeals Committee will still have recourse to the full range of penalties within the Code of Conduct for Students5 and may impose a higher or lower level of penalty from those listed above depending on the circumstances of a particular case.

8.4.5 Where a module mark of 0% or a module grade of F has been awarded as a penalty for the use of unfair means:

(a) all component marks for the module shall be set to 0%;

(b) all component grades shall be set to F.

(c) any previous module marks for the module shall be set to 0%;

(d) the student shall not be given compensation for that module but shall be permitted to be reassessed or to retake the module as set out in section 8.8 of the Regulations.

5 available from the University Policies website http://policies.salford.ac.uk/ or from the Head of Governance and Deputy Secretary


http://policies.salford.ac.uk/


8.5 Component mark or grade

8.5.1 A student enrolled on a module shall be given a component mark or grade or NS recorded for each component listed in the module specification. The component mark or grade may be determined directly from the assessment or from sub-component marks or grades which have been determined from the assessment.

8.5.2 At Level 3, 4, 5 and 6 the pass mark for a component shall be 40%.

8.5.3 At Level 7 the pass mark for a component shall be 50%.

8.5.4 Component marks and grades shall be input into the Student Information System via Gradebook.

8.6 Module mark

8.6.1 A student who has undertaken a module which includes one or more marked components shall be given a module mark, derived from the component marks, that represents a summary of his or her performance on that module.

8.6.2 There are two methods of calculating the module mark: Method A, which is used normally; Method B, which is used where some or all of the components have to be passed in order to pass the module. Any component which is graded must be passed in order to pass the module so where a module contains both marked and graded components Method B is always used. The method used shall be stated in the module specification (where no method is stated and there are no graded components the method shall be deemed to be Method A).

8.6.3 Using Method A, the module mark shall be calculated as the weighted average of the component marks according to the weightings stated in the module specification. That is:

module mark = sum of (component mark x weighting)

8.6.4 Using Method B, the weighted average of the component marks shall be calculated initially (NB any graded components are not included in the initial calculation).

Where any marked components that must be passed have been passed and all the graded components have been passed then the module mark shall be the weighted average of the component marks.

Where any marked components that must be passed have been failed or any graded components have been failed then the module mark shall be the weighted average of the component marks subject to the condition that the maximum module mark that can be achieved shall be 39% at Level 3, 4, 5 and 6, and 49% at Level 7.

8.6.5 Where all the component marks and grades for a module are recorded as NS the module mark shall be NS.

Otherwise, component marks recorded as NS shall be treated as 0%, component grades recorded as NS shall be treated as F and the module mark calculated in the normal manner.

8.6.6 Where replacement component marks or grades have been given on account of a case of Personal Mitigating Circumstances (see regulations 8.3.3 and 8.3.4) the module mark or grade should be calculated in the normal way using the replacement marks or grades for those components which have been voided plus the original marks or grades for any other components. (see also regulation 8.8.9



8.6.7 Where a student has been awarded credit for a module via APL then where possible the module mark shall be recorded as a percentage mark, obtained via the marks' translation process, otherwise a module grade of P shall be recorded. (see also regulation 6.4.4)

8.6.8 Where a student has undertaken a period of study, as part of a programme of the University, which is assessed by another institution:

(a) if the study is at Level 3, 4 or 7 then where possible the module mark(s) shall be recorded as a percentage mark, obtained via the marks' translation process, otherwise the module mark(s) shall be recorded as a pass/fail grade;

(b) if the study is at Level 5 or 6 then the module mark(s) shall be recorded as a percentage mark, obtained via the marks' translation process.

8.6.9 The minimum overall credit value of the modules for which a module mark shall be given shall be:

(a) for an Honours Degree:

60 credits at Level 5 and 100 credits at Level 6

or

120 credits at Level 6;

(b) for an Integrated Masters Degree:

120 credits at Level 6 and 120 credits at Level 7

8.6.10 A module mark recorded as NS shall be treated as 0% for all subsequent calculations.

8.6.11 At Level 3, 4, 5 and 6 the pass mark for a module shall be 40%.

8.6.12 At Level 7 the pass mark for a module shall be 50%.

8.7 Module grade

8.7.1 A student who has undertaken a module for which all the components are graded shall be given a module grade, derived from the component grades, that represents a summary of his or her performance on that module.

8.7.2 Where all the components have been passed the module grade shall be a pass.

Otherwise, the module grade shall be a fail.

8.7.3 Where all the module grades are recorded as NS the module grade shall be NS.

Otherwise, the component grades recorded as NS shall be treated as a fail and the module grade calculated in the normal manner.

8.7.4 A module grade recorded as NS shall be treated as a fail for all subsequent purposes.

8.8 Reassessment and retakes

8.8.1 A student who has passed a module shall not be permitted any further opportunities to be reassessed or to retake the module, subject to the provisions of regulation 8.8.14.



8.8.2 • A student who has failed a module and has been given a component mark or grade of NS in the final assessed component of that module at its first presentation shall not be permitted any further opportunities to be reassessed or to retake the module unless:

(a) a case of personal mitigating circumstances is accepted for that component; or

(b) where a case of personal mitigating circumstances is not accepted, the University, through a procedure approved by Senate, exceptionally grants the student exemption from the provisions of this Regulation. A student so exempted shall be deemed to have failed the module and be subject to normal reassessment and retake provisions.

8.8.3 • A student who has failed a module which forms part or the whole of the final 60 credit stage of a Masters Degree programme shall be permitted one reassessment opportunity only and shall not be permitted to retake the module.

8.8.4 A student shall be permitted, subject to the provisions of regulations 8.8.1 to 8.8.3:

(a) two opportunities to undertake a module, namely a take and a retake;

and

(b) a reassessment following each opportunity at a time specified by the University.

8.8.5 Where a student has been permitted to be reassessed or to retake a module the maximum module mark that the student shall be given under any circumstances, subject to the provisions of regulation 8.8.6, shall be the pass mark for the module: that is 40% at Level 3, 4, 5 and 6 and 50% at Level 7.

8.8.6 Where a student has been permitted to be reassessed on a module a new component mark shall be given for each marked component that was failed and a new component grade for each graded component that was failed.

The module mark shall be calculated from:

(a) the original component marks and grades for the passed components

and

(b) whichever is the higher of the original marks and grades and the new marks and grades for the reassessed components.

The module mark shall be no higher than the pass mark, subject to the provisions of regulation 8.8.7.

8.8.7 Where a student is reassessed for a module for which the module mark is calculated by Method B and has achieved component marks sufficient to pass the module then the module mark given to the student shall be whichever is the higher of:

(a) the weighted average of the component marks at the first attempt;

(b) the pass mark for the module.

8.8.8 Where a student has been permitted to be reassessed on a graded module a new component grade shall be given for each component that was failed when initially assessed.

The module grade shall be calculated from the original component grades for the passed components and the new component grades for the reassessed components.

8.8.9 Where a student who has been given a replacement component mark or grade does not pass the module then the subsequent calculations for the module mark or grade shall take place in the standard logical order, using component marks or



grades achieved at assessment and reassessment, even though not all assessments and reassessments have taken place at the usual time.

8.8.10 Where a student has been permitted to retake a module the module mark shall be calculated entirely from new component marks and grades given when the student retook the module. The module mark shall be no higher than the pass mark.

8.8.11 Where a student has been permitted to retake a graded module the module grade shall be calculated entirely from new component grades given when the student retook the module.

8.8.12 Where a student has been permitted to retake a module the student shall be permitted to retake a different module on the programme under the same conditions so long as such a module would otherwise be permitted as a take on the programme in place of the original module.

8.8.13 Where a student has been reassessed or has retaken a module the higher or highest of the module marks or grades thus achieved, which shall be no higher than the pass mark, subject to the provisions of regulation 8.8.6, shall be used in any subsequent calculations and recorded on the student transcript.

8.8.14 A student registered on an Integrated Masters Degree programme or a Masters Degree programme with a Graduate Diploma programme as an initial year who has achieved a module mark of less than 50% at Level 6 of the programme shall be permitted to be reassessed, for each marked component where a mark of less than 50% was achieved and each graded component that was failed, or to retake the module. The maximum module mark after reassessment or retaking that the student shall be given shall be 40%, subject to the provisions of regulation 8.8.5. However, a weighted average of the component marks, achieved following reassessment or retaking the module, up to the value of 50% may be used for the purposes of progression as specified in regulation 9.3.7 (c).



9 Credit, progression and qualifications

9.1 Level mark

9.1.1 A student who has undertaken Level 3, 4, 5 or 6 of a programme or 120 credits at Level 7 shall be given a level mark, derived from the module marks at that level of the programme, that represents a summary of the student's performance at that level.

9.1.2 The level mark shall be calculated as the weighted average of the module marks for all the marked modules at that level of the programme. That is:

level mark = (sum of (module mark x credit)) (credits at the level)

9.2 Award of credit and compensation

9.2.1 A student who has passed a module (i.e. has achieved a module mark of at least 40% at Level 3, 4, 5 or 6 or 50% at Level 7) shall be awarded the credits for that module.

9.2.2 A student who has failed a module may, under circumstances set out below, be given compensation and awarded credits for that module.

9.2.3 A student can only be given compensation if as a consequence the student accumulates all the credits necessary to complete the level or stage.

9.2.4 A student who has undertaken Level 3, 4, 5 or 6 of a programme and has failed one or more modules shall be given automatic compensation for the modules if all of the following conditions have been met:

(a) the failed modules are designated as fully eligible for compensation in the programme specification (see regulation 4.3.3 (j));

(b) modules worth no more than 20 credits in total have been failed;

(c) a module mark of at least 30% has been achieved for each failed module;

(d) none of the failed modules contains a graded component that has been failed;

(e) • in each failed module a mark of at least 20% has been achieved for the final assessment component of the module determined by the last date for submission or examination;

(f) modules at that level of the programme worth at least 120 credits have been undertaken;

(g) all the modules at that level have the same credit level as the level of the programme;

(h) modules at that level of the programme worth at least 100 credits have been passed;

(i) a level mark of at least 40% has been achieved.

9.2.5 A student who has undertaken the Postgraduate Diploma stage of a programme or Level 7 of an Integrated Masters programme and has failed a module shall be given automatic compensation for the module if all of the following conditions have been met:

(a) the failed module is designated as fully eligible for compensation in the programme specification (see regulation 4.3.3 (j));

(b) a module worth 15 credits in total has been failed (where 10 or 20 credit modules operate modules worth up to 20 credits may be failed);



(c) a module mark of at least 40% has been achieved for the failed module;

(d) the failed module does not contain a graded component that has been failed;

(e) modules at that level of the programme worth 120 credits have been undertaken;

(f) modules at that level of the programme worth 105 credits have been passed (where 10 or 20 credit modules operate modules worth only 100 credits may have been passed);

(g) a level mark of at least 50% has been achieved.

9.2.6 A student who has undertaken Level 3, 4, 5 or 6 of a programme and has failed one or more modules may be given discretionary compensation for the modules by the Board of Examiners if all of the following conditions have been met:

(a) the failed modules are designated as fully eligible for compensation in the programme specification (see regulation 4.3.3 (j));

(b) automatic compensation has not been given for the failed modules;

(c) modules worth no more than 40 credits in total have been failed;


(e) modules at that level of the programme worth at least 120 credits have been undertaken;

(f) all the modules at that level have the same credit level as the level of the programme;

(g) in each failed module a mark of at least 20% has been achieved for the final component of the module determined by the last date for submission or examination (where there is only one component that is the last component, where two or more components have the last date they are all final components);

(h) a level mark of at least 40% has been achieved.

[NB regulations 9.2.6 (c) and (g) do not apply to students who entered the programme prior to 2005/06, see regulation 1.2.2 (f)]

9.2.7 A student who has undertaken Level 3, 4, 5 or 6 of a programme and has failed one or more modules may be given discretionary compensation for the modules by the Board of Examiners if all of the following conditions have been met:

(a) the failed modules are designated as partially eligible for compensation in the programme specification (see regulation 4.3.3 (j));

(b) modules worth no more than 20 credits in total have been failed;

(c) a module mark of at least 30% has been achieved for each failed module;


(e) modules at that level of the programme worth at least 120 credits have been undertaken;

(f) all the modules at that level have the same credit level as the level of the programme;

(g) modules at that level of the programme worth at least 100 credits have been passed;

(h) a level mark of at least 40% has been achieved.

9.2.8 Where a Board of Examiners is considering giving discretionary compensation to a student the Board should take into account whether the student has met the learning outcomes for the level or stage of the programme.

9.2.9 Modules undertaken as part of the final 60 credit stage of a Masters Programme shall not be eligible for compensation.



9.2.10 A student who has been given compensation for a module shall be entitled to be reassessed or to retake the module subject to the provisions of the Regulations.

9.3 Progression

9.3.1 Progression within a level of a programme shall be automatic unless the level is divided into stages.

9.3.2 Where a level of a programme is divided into stages a student who has accumulated the credits for a stage, set out in the programme specification, shall be permitted to progress to the next stage of that level.

9.3.3 A student who has accumulated the credits for a level of a programme and any other requirements designated in the regulations shall be permitted to progress to the next level of that programme.

The standard requirement for progression is:

120 credits at Level 3, 4, 5 or 6

9.3.4 A student who has undertaken Level 3 for which there is a higher requirement for progression from Level 3 to a route at Level 4 shall be given an attainment mark for each such route.

The attainment mark shall be calculated as the weighted average of the module marks for the particular modules designated in the programme specification (see regulation 4.3.4). That is:

attainment mark = (sum of (module mark x credit)) credits

[NB regulations 9.3.4 and 9.3.5 do not apply to students who entered Level 3 prior to 2008/09, see regulation 1.2.2 (g)]

9.3.5 A student registered on a programme for which there is a higher requirement for progression from Level 3 to a route at Level 4 who:

(a) has accumulated 120 credits at Level 3

and

(b) has achieved the attainment mark designated in the programme specification shall be permitted to progress from Level 3 to that route at Level 4.

9.3.6 A student registered on an Honours Degree Programme who has accumulated 120 credits at Level 4 and 80 credits at Level 5 but who has not met the requirements for progression from Level 5 to Level 6 may be permitted by the Board of Examiners to transfer to a named Ordinary Degree Programme where such a programme has been approved.

9.3.7 A student registered on an Integrated Masters Degree programme or a Masters Degree programme with a Graduate Diploma programme as an initial year who:

(a) has accumulated 120 credits at Level 6 of the programme;

and

(b) has either achieved a Level 6 mark of at least 50%;

(c) or has achieved a progression mark of at least 50%, determined in a similar manner to the Level 6 mark but calculated as though the maximum module mark that can be achieved on reassessment or retaking a module is 50%,

shall be permitted to progress to Level 7 of the programme.

9.3.8 A student registered on a Masters programme who has obtained 120 credits at Level 7 for modules which comprise the Postgraduate Diploma stage(s) shall be permitted to progress to the final 60 credit stage of the programme.



9.3.9 A student shall be permitted to progress to next level of a programme for which concurrent study has been approved as an inherent or necessary feature (see regulation 3.2.22) without having accumulated all the credits at the previous level if all the following conditions have been met:

(a) the student has accumulated at least 60 credits at the previous level;

(b) the modules studied concurrently are at two adjacent levels;

(c) any credits required by the Board of Examiners shall be accumulated before the student shall be permitted to continue on the next level.

9.3.10 A student may exceptionally be permitted to study at two levels concurrently on any programme when:

(a) the student has made an appeal against a decision of the Board of Examiners or Discipline Committee and has been allowed to proceed to the next level pending the outcome of the appeal;

or

(b) Personal Mitigating Circumstances have prevented the student from being assessed in the normal manner.

Further details can be found in the Code of Practice on the Assessment of Students.

9.4 Award of qualifications

9.4.1 A student registered on a programme of study leading to a qualification who has accumulated the credits for the qualification, set out in the programme specification, shall be awarded the qualification, which shall be named according to the title of the programme.

9.4.2 A student registered on a programme of study leading to a qualification who leaves the programme without accumulating the specified credits for that qualification shall be awarded the highest available intermediate terminating qualification, if any, selected from the qualifications of the University, set out in regulation 3.2.23, for which the student has accumulated the credits required.

9.4.3 Where a programme leading to an intermediate terminating qualification has been approved or the intermediate terminating qualification is worth at least 120 credits then a named intermediate terminating qualification shall be awarded.

Otherwise, an unnamed intermediate terminating qualification shall be awarded.

9.4.4 Where a programme leading to an intermediate terminating qualification has been approved then the name of the intermediate qualification awarded shall be the title of the programme.

Otherwise, the name of a named intermediate terminating qualification shall be either the title of the programme leading to the next highest qualification or a particular name that has been approved for this purpose, as set out in regulation 4.3.2 (x).

9.4.5 A student registered on a programme of study who has accumulated 120 credits at Level 3 shall be awarded a University Foundation Certificate, named according to the conventions in regulation 9.4.3 and 9.4.4.

9.4.6 Where a student holds an intermediate terminating qualification of the University or an Ordinary Degree of the University and within a period of one year or less has on the basis of this qualification directly entered a programme leading to a higher qualification part way through the programme then the student shall not be awarded



the higher qualification until the lower qualification has been rescinded and the student has returned the certificate to the University.

9.4.7 Where a placement module is additional to the credit requirements of programme, as set out in the programme specification, it shall not contribute to the award of the qualification but will be recognised through the award of a Diploma in Professional Studies.

9.4.8 A student who has not been permitted to progress or transfer to another programme or awarded a final qualification and who has not been permitted any further assessment opportunities shall be required to withdraw from the programme, subject to the provisions of regulation 9.4.2.

9.4.9 • A student registered on a programme of study leading to a qualification of the University who dies without accumulating the specified credits for that qualification shall be eligible for the posthumous award of that qualification where:

(a) the student has accumulated at least two-thirds of the credits for the qualification; and

(b) the Board of Examiners, taking into account the student’s eligibility for an intermediate terminating qualification under regulation 9.4.2, the evidence of the student’s performance in the final level or stage of the programme and the wishes of the immediate family of the deceased, recommends the conferment of a posthumous final qualification.

9.4.10 • A posthumous award in accordance with regulation 9.4.9 shall be made without classification or Distinction or Merit and the certificate shall record that the qualification was awarded posthumously.



10 Classification, distinction and merit

10.1 Programme mark

10.1.1 A student who has met the requirements for an Honours Degree or an Integrated Masters Degree, or has met the requirements for a Masters Degree and been given module marks for modules worth 180 credits at Level 7 shall be given a programme mark that represents a summary of his or her performance on the programme.

10.1.2 A module mark shall contribute towards the calculation of the programme mark if:

(a) the module has been approved by the University of Salford within the modular framework for taught programmes, as set out in section 3 of the Regulations and encompassing those programmes listed in regulation 3.2.23;

or

(b) the module mark was ratified by the Board of Examiners for the programme.

10.1.3 The programme mark for a standard Honours Degree programme, containing 120 credits at Level 5 and 120 credits at Level 6 for which module marks are given, shall be calculated as follows:

programme mark = 25% x Level 5 mark + 75% x Level 6 mark

10.1.4 The programme mark for a non-standard Honours Degree programme shall use credits for which module marks are given and shall be calculated as follows:

programme mark = ((Level 5 credits x Level 5 mark) + (3 x Level 6 credits x Level 6 mark)) (Level 5 credits + 3 x Level 6 credits)

[NB the formulae in regulation 10.1.3 and 10.1.4 for calculating the programme mark give the same result when applied to a programme containing 120 credits at Level 5 and 120 credits at Level 6.]

10.1.5 The programme mark for a standard Integrated Masters Degree programme, containing 120 credits at Level 6 and 120 credits at Level 7 for which module marks are given, shall be calculated as follows:

programme mark = 25% x Level 6 mark + 75% x Level 7 mark

10.1.6 The programme mark for a non-standard Integrated Masters Degree programme shall use credits for which module marks are given and shall be calculated as follows:

programme mark = ((Level 6 credits x Level 6 mark) + (3 x Level 7 credits x Level 7 mark)) (Level 6 credits + 3 x Level 7 credits)

10.1.7 The programme mark for a Masters Degree programme shall be calculated as follows:

programme mark = (sum of (module mark x credit)) 180

10.1.8 In the case of a Masters Degree programme, a project mark, which is commonly the module mark for a single 60 credit module, shall be calculated as the weighted average of the module marks over the final 60 credit stage of the programme. That is:

project mark = (sum of (module mark x credit)) 60



10.2 Classification of Honours Degree and Integrated Masters Degree

10.2.1 The award of an Honours Degree or Integrated Masters Degree shall be classified.

10.2.2 The class of degree shall be determined by the programme mark, according to the table below:

minimum class of programme mark degree

68.5% first

59.0% upper second

49.5% lower second

40.0% third

[NB where a student has entered Level 5 of an Honours Degree programme or an Integrated Masters Degree programme prior to 2006/07 a Board of Examiners may exceptionally exercise discretion in the class of degree awarded as set out in the Regulations for 2006/07 (10.2.3), see regulation 1.2.2 (h)]

10.3 Masters Degree with Distinction or Merit

10.3.1 A student who has been given a programme mark may be awarded a Masters Degree with Distinction or Merit.

10.3.2 A student who has achieved:

(a) a programme mark of at least 70%;

and

(b) a project mark of at least 70%,

shall be awarded a Masters Degree with Distinction.

10.3.3 A student who has not been awarded a Masters Degree with Distinction but has achieved:

(a) a programme mark of at least 60%;

and

(b) a project mark of at least 60%,

shall be awarded a Masters Degree with Merit.

[NB regulation 10.3.3 does not apply to students who entered a Masters Degree programme prior to 2007/08, see regulation 1.2.2 (i)]



11 Boards of Examiners

11.1 Functions of Boards of Examiners

11.1.1 Boards of Examiners are Sub-Committees of Senate with delegated responsibility for ratifying marks and for taking decisions regarding progression and the award of qualifications. Full details can be found in Approval of Membership and Clarification of Procedures and Functions of Boards of Examiners.

11.1.2 Boards of Examiners may operate through single-tiered boards or double-tiered boards.

11.1.3 A single-tiered board:

(a) shall ratify marks for modules within a programme or group of programmes;

(b) shall take decisions concerning progression or the award of qualifications for all students within a cohort on a named programme or group of programmes.

11.1.4 A double-tiered board comprises two tiers.

At the first tier, which is often referred to as a module board, the board:

(a) shall ratify marks for modules within its subject area.

At the second tier, which is often referred to as a programme board, the board:

(b) on the basis of ratified marks received from the relevant module boards, shall take decisions concerning progression and the award of qualifications for all students within a cohort on a named programme or group of programmes.

11.1.5 A board may, on occasion, operate as both a single-tiered board and a double-tiered board.

11.2 Constitution of Boards of Examiners

11.2.1 There shall be a standard constitution for Boards of Examiners which is determined by category. The categories are core, optional and invited.

11.2.2 Exceptions to the standard constitution require the approval of Faculty Board.

11.2.3 Schools shall establish the membership of each Board of Examiners by name and report the membership as a standard agenda item.

11.2.4 Schools shall nominate a Secretary to each Board of Examiners.

11.3 External examiners

11.3.1 For every programme or group of modules leading to a qualification awarded by the University there shall be at least one examiner who is external to the University.

Procedures for external examiners are set out in the Code of Practice on the External Examiner System for all Taught Programmes.

11.3.2 For collaborative programmes approved by the University but delivered by another institution or organisation there shall be at least one examiner who is external to both the University and the other institution or organisation.

11.3.3 The selection and appointment of external examiners shall be the responsibility of Boards of Faculty under the delegated powers of Senate.



11.3.4 The number of external examiners for any award should be sufficient to cover the full range of modules and programmes, and to cover the different forms of Boards of Examiners organised within schools.

11.3.5 The formal limit for the period of service of an external examiner shall be four years with the possibility of limited extension in exceptional circumstances.

11.3.6 The fees for external examiners shall be approved by Senate.

11.3.7 The functions of an external examiner shall be:

(a) to verify that academic standards are appropriate for the award, or part thereof, for the programme(s) to which he or she has been appointed;

(b) to ensure national comparability of academic standards;

(c) to ensure that the assessment process is fair and fairly operated.

11.3.8 An external examiner shall participate in the assessment process wherever it contributes to a final qualification awarded by the University.

11.4 Conduct of Boards of Examiners

11.4.1 Chairs and Secretaries shall undertake staff development training in Chairing and Servicing Boards of Examiners.

11.4.2 Schools shall annually publish a list of Boards of Examiners with dates of meetings and whether the board is single-tiered or double-tiered.

11.4.3 Boards of Examiners shall operate with a standard agenda.

11.4.4 Attendance at Boards of Examiners shall be sufficient to be representative of all modules under consideration and to enable appropriate collegial decisions to be made about progression and awards.

11.4.5 An external examiner may attend any meeting of the Board of Examiners.

11.4.6 An external examiner shall normally attend any meeting of the Board of Examiners that:

(a) takes decisions concerning the award of final qualifications;

or

(b) ratifies marks or takes decisions at Level 7.

Where an external examiner cannot attend a meeting he or she is expected to attend then the external examiner shall be available for consultation.

11.4.7 The full Board of Examiners shall normally take all decisions.

Chair's action may be used exceptionally as set out in the Approval of Membership and Clarification of Procedures and Functions of Boards of Examiners.

11.4.8 Guidance regarding student debtors is available in Procedures at Boards of Examiners in Respect of Student Debtors.

11.4.9 A record of all decisions, including the ratification of marks, taken by a Board of Examiners or by chair's action shall be signed or confirmed in writing by:

(a) the chair of the Board;

(b) all external examiners present at the meeting of the Board;

and



(c) any external examiner who would normally have been present at the meeting of the Board, or who would normally have been present had the decision not been taken by chair's action.

11.4.10 A minute of all meetings of a Board of Examiners and cases of chair's action shall be kept.

11.5 Ratification and decisions

11.5.1 All marks and other information ratified and all decisions taken by a Board of Examiners shall be consistent with the Regulations of the University.

11.5.2 Prior to ratifying marks the Board of Examiners shall consider reports from the School(s) on module mark profiles as set out in the Academic Quality Assurance Handbook.

11.5.3 The rounding of marks shall be applied as follows:

(a) All calculations to derive an overall mark for a module shall be accurate to two decimal places.

(b) The module mark shall be determined by rounding the overall decimal mark to the nearest whole number (0.50 is rounded up).

(c) The module mark shall always be recorded and used as a whole number.

(d) The project mark (where applicable), level mark and programme mark shall always be calculated, recorded and used as a decimal number accurate to two decimal places.

Advice on the processing of marks can be obtained from the Student Information Directorate

11.5.4 For each module the following information shall be ratified for a student:

(a) mark, one of: percentage mark (0 – 100) grade (P or F) non submission (NS)

(b) assessment status, one of: first assessment (default) reassessment retake retake reassessment

(c) APL status, one of: no APL (default) APCL APEL

(d) PMC status, one of: no PMC accepted (default) PMC accepted

(e) compensation status, one of: no compensation (default) automatic compensation discretionary compensation

11.5.5 At each level or stage of a programme the following information shall be ratified for a student:

(a) the number of credits undertaken;

(b) the number of credits accumulated;



(c) where appropriate, the level mark.

11.5.6 On completion of a programme the following information shall be ratified for a student:

(a) the number of credits undertaken;

(b) the number of credits accumulated;

(c) where appropriate, the programme mark.

11.5.7 On completion of a Masters Degree programme the following information shall be ratified for a student:

(a) the project mark.

11.5.8 The following decisions shall be available to a Board of Examiners:

(1) continue at the current level or stage (a);

(2) continue at the current level or stage (a) with assessment opportunity (b);

(3) progress to the next level or stage (a);

(4) progress to the next level or stage (a) with compensation;

(5) progress to the next level or stage (a) with assessment opportunity (b);

(6) required to withdraw from the programme without the award of a qualification;

(7) award an intermediate terminating qualification (c);

(8) award an intermediate terminating qualification (c) with compensation;

(9) award a final qualification (c);

(10) award a final qualification (c) with compensation;

(11) transfer to a programme (d) leading to a higher or lower qualification;

(12) defer the decision.

Details of decisions:

(a) for level or stage: level if appropriate, stage

(b) for each module with assessment opportunity whether: assessment or reassessment (default) take (default) or retake if appropriate, replacement assessment or replacement reassessment

(c) for qualification: qualification whether named or un-named if appropriate, class of degree, distinction or merit

(d) for programme: programme level if appropriate, stage.



12 Communication of results

12.1 Results

12.1.1 On completion of a meeting of a Board of Examiners or the use of chair's action, schools shall communicate details of all ratified marks and grades and all decisions taken to the Student Information Directorate.

12.1.2 A pass list shall be maintained by the Student Information Directorate.

12.1.3 The Student Information System shall be the official repository of all student results.

12.2 Information communicated to students

12.2.1 Schools shall communicate to students information on unratified marks and grades at the earliest opportunity, accompanied by a statement that the marks and grades are subject to ratification by the Board of Examiners.

12.2.2 Schools shall communicate to students by individual letter information on ratified results concerning:

(a) module marks or grades

(b) progression to the next level or stage of a programme;

(c) the award of a qualification;

(d) any compensation that has been given, including the opportunity of further assessment instead;

(e) opportunities for further assessment, including details for the relevant modules;

(f) any other decisions taken by the Board of Examiners.

12.2.3 The individual letter sent to a student containing ratified results shall be considered to be the formal communication of those results and the date on the letter shall count as the date of publication of a decision of the Board of Examiners (see regulation 13.1.3(a)).

12.2.4 Where a student has been awarded a qualification or withdrawn from their programme of study a transcript shall be issued by the Student Information Directorate showing the marks or grades for all modules undertaken and any qualification that has been awarded.

Otherwise, a record of performance shall be issued annually by the Student Information Directorate showing the marks or grades for all modules undertaken.

12.2.5 The transcript shall be the official record of a student’s academic achievement.



13 Academic appeals

13.1 Submission of an appeal

13.1.1 A student may appeal against a decision of the Board of Examiners. The University procedures for the submission and consideration of appeals are set out in the Academic Appeals Procedure.

13.1.2 Before taking the decision to submit an academic appeal a student:

(a) shall contact his or her programme leader in order to attempt to resolve the matters informally or shall seek further clarification at school level;

(b) may contact the Students’ Union Advice Centre for further advice;

(c) may contact the Head of Governance Services and Deputy Secretary for advice on the applicability and operation of the procedure.

13.1.3 A student who wishes to appeal against a decision of the Board of Examiners shall do so in writing to the Head of Governance Services and Deputy Secretary using the Academic Appeals Pro-forma. The completed pro-forma:

(a) shall be submitted within 10 working days of the publication of the Board’s decision;

(b) shall be submitted to the Head of Governance Services and Deputy Secretary;

(c) shall specify the grounds on which the appeal is made;

(d) shall include the full particulars of the case.

13.1.4 An appeal may only be submitted on one or more of the following grounds:

(a) that evidence is available which for good and reasonable cause has not been submitted in accordance with the Personal Mitigating Circumstances procedures;

(b) that there has been a relevant and significant error in the operation of the procedures of the Board of Examiners or the application of the Regulations;

(c) that the Board of Examiners has acted in a way that is manifestly unreasonable.

13.1.5 Disagreement with the academic judgement of the Board of Examiners in confirming marks and grades for individual assessments shall not constitute grounds for appeal.



Index

academic appeals 51 submission 51

Academic Quality Assurance Handbook 2, 5 Academic Regulations for Taught Programmes 2, 5

application 5 scope 5

admission of students 23–25 admissions process 23

advanced entry 24, 25 Accreditation of Prior Learning 23, 24

APCL 23, 24 APEL 23, 24 APL 23, 24

approval 16–18 approval and amendment of modules 16 approval, re-approval and amendment of programmes 18

assessment 29–44 assessed work 29, 30 assessment of modules 29–35 assessment scale 29

Boards of Examiners 45–48 conduct 46, 47 constitution 45 double-tiered board 45 functions 45 single-tiered board 45

classification 44 of Honours Degree 44 of Integrated Masters Degree 44

collaborative provision 19 compensation 37–39

automatic compensation 37, 38 discretionary compensation 38 fully eligible 17, 37, 38 partially eligible 17, 38 not eligible 17

component 15 component mark or grade 32

concurrent study 12, 40 credit 9, 10, 12, 13

award of credit 37–39 descriptors for marking bands 29 enrolment on modules 27 entry requirements 23

entry via Accreditation of Prior Learning 23, 24 entry with advanced standing via Accreditation of Prior Learning 24

exceptions to the Regulations 5, 6 general exceptions 5, 6 specific exceptions 5

extensions on a Masters programme 28 external examiners 45, 46 grade 29

component grade 32 module grade 33

information 21, 22, 49 communicated to students 49 on taught provision 21, 22




provided by schools 21, 22 provided by the University 21

intermediate terminating qualifications 12, 13, 40, 41 interruption of study 28 level 9, 10, 37

level mark 37 level of a programme 10

mark 29 attainment mark 18, 39 component mark 32 level mark 37 module mark 32, 33 percentage 29 project mark 43 programme mark 43

Masters Degree with Distinction or Merit 44 Method A 15, 16, 32 Method B 15, 16, 32 modular framework for taught programmes 9–13 module 9, 10

module grade 33 module handbook 22 module mark 32, 33 module specification 15, 16 stand-alone module 25

penalties for late work 30 Personal Mitigating Circumstances 30, 32, 34 posthumous awards 41 programme 10–13

programme handbook 22 programme mark 43 programme specification 16–18 programme structure 17

progression 39, 40 higher requirement 17, 39

qualifications 7, 8 award of qualifications 40, 41 intermediate terminating qualifications 12, 13, 40, 41

ratification and decisions 47, 48 reassessment 33, 34, 35 retake 34, 35 registration on programme 27 results 49

communication of results 49 transcript 49

school handbook 21 semester 9–13 specification 15–18

module specification 15, 16 programme specification 16–18

stage 10 stand-alone module 25 transcript 49 transfer 27, 28 unfair means 30, 31

penalties 31

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