University Awards and Degree Programs: Regulations and Requirements, Slides of Medicine

Download University Awards and Degree Programs: Regulations and Requirements and more Slides Medicine in PDF only on Docsity! Academic Regulations (Taught Programmes) Effective from September 2021 to Present Student Regulations and Policies uclan.ac.uk/studentcontract PREFACE The application of the Academic Regulations is underpinned by University policies and procedures, to which reference is made at appropriate points within the Regulations. Contents A: The Academic Regulations ........................................................................................................................................ 1 A1 The University ............................................................................................................................................................ 1 A2 Powers of the University to Grant Awards .................................................................................................................. 1 A3 Approval of Courses and Awards by the Academic Board of the University ............................................................. 1 B: Awards of the University ............................................................................................................................................ 2 B1 Principles .................................................................................................................................................................... 2 B2 List of Awards ............................................................................................................................................................. 2 B3 Title of Awards............................................................................................................................................................. 3 B4 Approval of new awards ........................................................................................................................................... 12 B5 Certification of Awards .............................................................................................................................................. 12 C: Modular Framework ................................................................................................................................................... 13 C1 Modular Framework .................................................................................................................................................. 13 C2 Modules .................................................................................................................................................................... 13 C3 Courses .................................................................................................................................................................... 14 C4 Placements ............................................................................................................................................................... 14 C5 Study Abroad ............................................................................................................................................................ 14 C6 Stage ........................................................................................................................................................................ 14 C7 Mode of Study........................................................................................................................................................... 15 C8 Duration of Study ...................................................................................................................................................... 15 C9 Attendance and Engagement ................................................................................................................................... 15 C10 Standard Credit Requirements for Awards ............................................................................................................... 16 D: Approval and Periodic Review of Course s ............................................................................................................. 18 D1 Course closure .......................................................................................................................................................... 18 D2 Course Approval, Credit Recognition and Periodic Course Review of courses offered in collaboration with other institutions or other organisations ........................................................................................................................................ 18 E: The Admission of Students ....................................................................................................................................... 18 E1 Principles .................................................................................................................................................................. 18 E2 General Entry Requirements ................................................................................................................................... 19 E3 The admission of students with criminal convictions ............................................................................................... 21 E4 Admission with credit (including Accreditation of Prior Learning) ............................................................................ 21 F: Student Registration for Awards ........................................................................................................................ 22 F1 Registration ............................................................................................................................................................... 22 F2 Intercalation .............................................................................................................................................................. 22 G: Assessment ................................................................................................................................................................. 23 G1 Principles of Assessment .......................................................................................................................................... 23 G2 Module Assessment and Feedback on Assessed Work .......................................................................................... 23 G3 Late Submissions ...................................................................................................................................................... 23 G4 Examination Arrangements ....................................................................................................................................... 24 G5 Students with Disabilities and/or Learning Difficulties ............................................................................................... 24 G6 Assessment Practice................................................................................................................................................. 24 G7 Academic misconduct ............................................................................................................................................... 24 G8 Com position and Responsibilities of Assessment Boards......................................................................................... 25 P a g e | 2 B: Awards of the University B1 Principles B1.1 All awards conferred by the University are defined by a series of benchmarks relating to the general level of knowledge and skills required to register for the award, the highest level of study required to achieve the award and the standard time taken to complete the award as expressed in terms of full-time study. B1.2 All awards conferred by the University are benchmarked against the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications for England, Wales and Northern Ireland issued by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education. Individual disciplines may also refer to relevant subject benchmarks. B1.3 Awards can only be gained by following and successfully completing a course of study leading to an approved award which has been approved by the University. B1.4 University awards are designed to incorporate exit point awards where appropriate aims and learning outcomes have been specified. Exit point awards may only be given where the learning outcomes for the lower award have been met. B1.5 Certificates, transcripts and Diploma Supplements follow an approved style and format. B1.6 All courses will be taught and assessed in English with the following exceptions: (i) where the learning outcomes are explicitly related to competence in Languages other than English; (ii) where the acquisition of competence in English is a declared learning outcome, support work may be in the student’s native language. B2 List of Awards B2.1 The Awards conferred by the University are shown in table B3.10. B2.2 Posthumous awards The University may confer any of its awards posthumously provided there is evidence of work successfully completed at the appropriate level. The classification will be determined by the Assessment Board on the basis of the overall academic profile. The award can be accepted on the student’s behalf by a parent, spouse or other appropriate individual. B2.2 Research Awards The Academic Regulations for research awards are published in the Academic Regulations for Postgraduate Research Degrees. B2.3 Professional Doctorate Awards The Academic Regulations for Professional Doctorates are published in the Academic Regulations for Professional Doctorates. Guidance on the framework for Professional Doctorates can be found in Appendix 12 of the Academic Quality Assurance Manual. B2.4 Honorary Awards There are three categories of Honorary Award: i) an Honorary Doctorate (D.Univ.), appropriate for those who have made a significant contribution to the development of the University and/or have made a major contribution to the development of education at the national and/or international level; ii) an Honorary Fellowship, appropriate for those who have achieved distinction in their profession or area of activity, and/or made a significant contribution to society in general; iii) a Corporate Award, appropriate for those organisations, institutions of corporations which have demonstrated significant charitable work s, community enhancement, or through their collective endeavour have advanced education or academic research regionally, nationally or internationally. P a g e | 3 B2.5 The Honorary Academic Awards committee considers nominations for the award of Honorary Doctorate and recommends conferment of any award by the Academic Board. The awards of Honorary Fellow or Corporate Awards are conferred by the Nominations Committee, a sub-committee of the University Board. The Committee (s) will take account of past, current or planned future links between a student and the University in determining whether an award should be conferred. B3 Title of Awards B3.1 Certificate in Education [Cert Ed] [post-compulsory] The Certificate in Education is a teaching qualification awarded to students who have successfully completed a specialist teaching course in post-compulsory education. B3.2 Foundation Degrees Foundation degree programmes will lead either to the award of FdA, FdSc or FdEng. The award of FdA is generally used in art and design, the arts and humanities and areas of social or business studies. The award of FdSc is generally used in technology, science or mathematics and their applications. The award of FdEng is reserved for courses which provide a technologically broad education with an emphasis on engineering applications. B3.3 Bachelor Degrees First degree programmes will lead either to the award of a BA or a BSc or to a more closely defined award restricted to certain subjects and types of course. The award of Bachelor of Arts (BA) is generally used in art and design, the arts and humanities and areas of social or business studies. The award of Bachelor of Science (BSc) is generally used in technology, science or mathematics and their applications. In areas where either title may be used, the title will be based on the curricular focus of the course and prevailing norms across the relevant higher education sector. The title Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) is reserved for courses which provide a technologically broad education with an emphasis on engineering applications. The title Bachelor of Laws (LLB) is reserved for courses of specialized study in law. The Senior Status LLB is a graduate entry, 2 year variant of this award. B3.4 Graduate Certificate/Diploma Courses at undergraduate level (Level 6) which are taken by those who are already graduates. B3.5 Integrated Masters Integrated Masters courses represent extended first degree programmes which include a significant element of level 7study. The titles MEng/MPhys/MChem/MLaw/MSci/MMath/MComp/MHRM/MComSC/MPAS/MChiro are reserved for courses of specialised undergraduate study in a specific subject area which provide the skills and knowledge required in the subject for professional development in industry or research and as such are recognised by industry, professional bodies and research councils. The title Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) is reserved for courses which form the primary qualification registerable with the General Dental Council that enables dentists to practice in the UK (following appropriate Foundation Training) The title MPharm is reserved for courses accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). The title Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery [MB BS] is reserved for courses which form the primary qualification registerable with the General Medical Council that enables doctors to practice within the UK. The title of Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences and Medicine (BVMS) is reserved for a course which is to be registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Sciences as a qualification that enables veterinary surgeons to practice in the UK. B3.6 Postgraduate Certificate in Education [PGCE] [post-compulsory] P a g e | 4 The Postgraduate Certificate in Education is a teaching qualification awarded to graduate students who have successfully completed a specialist teaching course in post-compulsory education. P a g e | 10 FHEQ level Title of Award Classifications available General Minimum Entry Requirement Standard Course Duration (expressed as FT equivalent length, + 2 years for Part Time) Highest Level of study (equivalent qualifications required for or experience accepted. the Award For course specific requirements see course documents) 6 Bachelor’s Degrees with First Class, Upper Second Class, Lower Second Class, Third Class, Degree without Honours Applicants must have 5 3 years (1 year for top-Up Awards) (4 years for some Overseas provision/ Cyprus Campus) 6 Honours: (Bachelor of Arts [BA GCSE passes at Grade C Hons]; Bachelor of or above (including Maths Engineering [BEng Hons]; and English or Bachelor of Laws [LLBHons]; equivalent) plus a 12 unit Bachelor of Science [BSc profile the equivalent of Hons]) two subjects at Advanced Level (A2). 6 Senior Status Bachelor of First Class, Upper Bachelor degree 2 years 6 Laws LLB (Hons) Second Class, Lower Second Class, Third Class, Degree without Honours 6 Graduate Certificate Distinction, Merit successful level 6 study 1 semester 6 6 Graduate Diploma Distinction, Merit successful level 6 study 2 semesters 6 7 Integrated Masters Honours: (Master of Physics [MPhys]) (Master of Pharmacy with [MPharm]) (Master of Engineering [MEng]) (Master of Chemistry [MChem]) (Bachelor of Dental Surgery [BDS]) (Master of Law [MLaw]) (Master of Science [MSci]) (Master of Mathematics [MMath]) (Master of Computing [MComp]) (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery [MB BS]) Master of Human Resource Management(MHRM) Master of Community and Social Care (MComSC) Master of Physician Associate Studies(MPAS) Master of Chiropractic (MChiro) First Class, Upper Second Class, Lower Second Class, Third Class ^ [for BDS and MB BS no classification is awarded other than BDS or MB BS with Honours when an APM of 70% or more is achieved] Applicants must have 5 GCSE passes at Grade C or above plus a 12 unit profile the equivalent of two subjects at Advanced Level (A2). [Applicants with advanced standing to year 2 of the BDS must have previous graduate achievement in biomedical sciences or related subject] 4 years (5 years for the BDS and MB BS) 7 P a g e | 11 FHEQ level Title of Award Classifications available General Minimum Entry Requirement Standard Course Duration (expressed as FT equivalent length, + 2 years for Part Time) Highest Level of study (equivalent qualifications required for or experience accepted. the Award For course specific requirements see course documents) 7 Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences and Medicine (BVMS) Pass, Merit, Distinction Entry requirements: 5 GCSE passes at Grade C or above and AAB A- levels (or equivalent) 5 years 7 Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas 7 Postgraduate Certificate Distinction, Merit Bachelor degree with Honours [Mgt experience for CM] 1 semester 7 (PGCert) Certificate in Management [CM]; Post Graduate Certificate in Education [PGCE*] 7 Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) Diploma in Management Distinction, Merit Bachelor degree with Honours [2 years management 2 semesters 7 Studies[DMS] experience for DMS] P a g e | 12 FHEQ level Title of Award Classifications available Dist Merit General Minimum Entry Requirement (equivalent qualifications or experience accepted. For course specific requirements see course documents) Standard Course Duration (expressed as FT equivalent length, + 2 years for Part Time) Highest Level of study required for the Award Taught Masters 7 Master’s Degrees: Master of Architecture [MArch]; Master of Arts [MA]; Master of Business Administration [MBA]; Master of Clinical Dentistry [MClinDent]; Master of Clinical Medicine (MCLinMed); Master of Laws [LLM]; Master of Science [MSc]; Master of Education [MEd]); Master of Research [MRes] Distinction, Merit Bachelor Degree with Honours at lower second class or above [Bachelor Degree in Architecture that carries RIBA Pt1 recognition at upper second or above or lower second with relevant work experience for MArch] [Primary Dental Qualification (eg BDS or BChD) and be on the GDC Dentist Register for MClinDent] [Mgt experience and age 23 for MBA] Calendar year [2 calendar years for MArch, MClinDent and MClinMed] 7 Professional Masters 7 Professional Masters Distinction, Merit Bachelor Degree with Honours at lower second class or above and evidence of a significant experiential profile 1 calendar year FT 2 calendar year PT 7 Research Degrees 7 Master of Arts MA; Master of Science MSc; Master of Laws LLM (by Research) Bachelor Degree with Hons at lower second class or above 1 year thesis 7 Master of Philosophy(MPhil) Bachelor Degree with Hons at lower second class or above 2 years thesis 7 Master of Surgery (MCh [Res]) Bachelor Degree with Hons at lower second class or above 3 years thesis 8 Doctor of Medicine (MD [Res]) Bachelor Degree with Hons at lower second class or above 3 years thesis 8 Doctor of Philosophy(PhD) Bachelor Degree with Hons at lower second class or above Ϯ 3 years thesis 8 Professional Doctorate (DProf) Bachelor Degree with Hons at lower second class or above plus professional experience¥ 3 years 8 + thesis 8 Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Bachelor Degree with Hons at lower second class or above plus professional experience Ϯ 3 years 8 + thesis 8 Doctor of Education (EdD)) Bachelor Degree with Hons at lower second class or above plus professional experience Ϯ 3 years 8 + thesis P a g e | 14 C2.10 Module size C2.10.1 A standard module is worth 20 credits. It equates to the learning activity expected from one sixth of a full- time undergraduate year. C2.10.2 For Undergraduate and Postgraduate taught courses module size must comply with the following guidelines: Level Module Size Options 3 20, 40, 60 4 20, 40, 60, 120 5 20, 40, 60, 120 6 20, 40, 60, 120 7 20, 40, 60, 120 C3 Courses C3.1 Courses lead to named awards (e.g. BSc Psychology). Courses consist of specified combinations of modules approved by the University as appropriate for that named award and which allow students to meet the overall award requirements in terms of module number and level. A table of module requirements is shown in C10. C3.2 Courses are assigned to Academic Schools. Their development, operation and assessment are the responsibility of the Head of School. C4 Placements C4.1 Sandwich Courses Sandwich courses are developed with an extensive period of supervised work experience. This must be a minimum of 30 weeks in total to be eligible to be defined as a sandwich course. Awards are appropriately endorsed with merit/distinction. The period of work experience has aims and learning outcomes and is assessed but does not contribute to the minimum module requirement for the award nor the award classification calculation. C4.2 Work Experience Periods of work experience leading to the achievement of specified learning outcomes may take the form of individual modules or may be integrated with academic study within a module. C5 Study Abroad C5.1 Language courses Language courses will normally include an extensive period of study abroad (usually 35 weeks). The period of study abroad has aims and learning outcomes and is assessed but does not contribute to the minimum module requirement for the award nor to the award classification calculation. C5.2 Exchange Schemes Exchange schemes may include study abroad and should satisfy the relevant learning outcomes of the course but do not necessarily need to match the content of any specific modules as set out in the Programme specification. C6 Stage C6.1 Bachelor Degrees are divided into stages P a g e | 15 Stage 0 is equivalent to a full-time foundation year and prepares a student for the degree or diploma course. Stage 1 is equivalent to a first year of a full-time degree course and forms the basis of progression to stage 2. Stage 2 is equivalent to the subsequent years of a full-time degree course. C6.2 For the Integrated Masters course, Stage 2 is equivalent to the second year of a full-time degree course. Stage 3 is equivalent to the final two years of a full-time Integrated Masters course. C6.3 For the integrated PhD, Stage 2 is equivalent to a three-year PhD course. C7 Mode of Study C7.1 The modular framework is designed to accommodate the movement of students between full-time and part- time mode of study. Changes to mode of study require prior approval. C7.2 A full-time student is defined as any student undertaking modules equating to at least 100 credits during a standard (two semester) academic session. The maximum number of credits that may be taken during an academic session is normally 120. Exceptionally, a full-time student may undertake 140 credits where they are required to retake a 20-credit module. C7.3 A full-time student undertaking an approved accelerated degree programme will normally complete 180 credits within a standard (three semester) academic session. C8 Duration of Study C8.1 The standard duration of full-time study towards specified awards is shown in the table in section B3.10. The standard duration for part-time provision will normally exceed the full- time duration by two years. C8.2 A student is permitted to interrupt the continuous registration on their programme of study but must seek authorisation to do so from the Head of School (or nominee) prior to the commencement of that interruption of study. The application should be in writing and set out the reasons for interruption and the period of time requested for such interruption. Retrospective interruptions to study are not permitted. The period of authorised interruption shall normally be up to one year and exceptionally up to two years. A period of authorised interruption shall normally be no less than one month. Such periods of time would normally be considered as authorised absence. If an interruption is not authorised but a student does not attend their course, the University may determine that a student’s studies be terminated and apply its withdrawal procedures under section G13 of these regulations. C8.3 Students who wish to interrupt their studies for longer than the period which can be authorised, or who fail to enrol for an academic year without authorised interruption, must seek readmission if they wish to resume their studies. C8.4 An authorised interruption of study would normally require an adjustment to the expected end date of the programme by the equivalent period of time. C9 Attendance and Engagement C9.1 Student attendance and engagement at timetabled learning activities of courses and modules is required. Notification of illness or exceptional requests for leave of absence must be made to the Head of School or nominee (usually the Course Leader). C9.2 Students with continuous unauthorised absence may be deemed to have withdrawn from the course and the University may apply its withdrawal procedures in accordance with section G13 of these regulations. C9.3 Individual modules and/or courses may incorporate a specific attendance requirement as part of the assessment criteria for successful completion of a module. P a g e | 16 C10 Standard Credit Requirements for Awards minimum at: Award title Minimum module requirement Stage 2 Stage 3 Level 4 or above Level 5 or above Level 6 or above Level 7 or above Level 8 Certificate of Achievement* 20 (at Level 3 or above) Certificate* 20 20 Certificate of Higher Education 120 120 Foundation Certificate 120 120 Advanced Certificate* 40 40 Diploma 100 100 80 Higher National Certificate* 120 120 Higher National Diploma 240 240 100 Diploma of Higher Education 240 120 240 100 Foundation Degree 240 240 100 Advanced Diploma** 320 200 320 180 60 Diploma in Professional Studies 120 120 Degree 320 200 320 180 60 Honours degree 360 240 360 220 100 Senior Status LLB 240 240 240 100 Honours degree for Overseas Provision with 4 Years Study Cycle (3 years at Stage 2) 480 360 480 280 140 Honours degree for Cyprus Campus Provision with 4 Years Study Cycle 480 240 480 220 100 Top-up Degree (Honours) 120 120 120 100 Graduate Certificate 60 60 40 Graduate Diploma 120 120 100 Integrated Masters 480 120 240 480 360 220 120 Bachelor of Dental Surgery 720***** 120 240 720 360 200 120 Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences and Medicine (BVMS) 600 120 240 600 480 360 240 Postgraduate Certificate 60 60 40 Postgraduate Diploma 120 120 100 (Taught) Masters Degree 180 180 160*** Master of Architecture 240 240 P a g e | 19 C10.6 Programme Structure for Integrated PhD Stage 1 Year 1 or part time equivalent 120 credits of research skills modules at Level 7 or above. Stage 2 Year 2 or part time equivalent A research thesis at Level 8. D: Approval and Periodic Review of Courses D1 Course closure D1.1 Sometimes, circumstances beyond the control of the University may mean that it has to close a course. In these circumstances, the University will take all reasonable steps to minimise the resultant disruption to affected students, by, for example, offering affected students the chance to move to another course or institution, or by delivering a modified version of the same course. The University will ensure that adequate standards are maintained for any students remaining on the course. D2 Course Approval, Credit Recognition and Periodic Course Review of courses offered in collaboration with other institutions or other organisations. D2.1 Forms of relationship D2.1.1 The University may form a relationship with other bodies in the UK or overseas to offer courses. Such courses may lead to the awards of the related bodies as well as to awards of the University. D2.1.2 Whatever form the relationship takes, the University will satisfy itself, through its Course Approval and Periodic Review procedures, that a course or learning programme complies with the Academic Regulations and that the related establishment provides a suitable learning environment for students on courses leading to awards of the University. D2.2 Formal Agreement D2.2.1 All collaborative courses, including franchised courses, validated courses, credit recognition and articulation, will be covered by an agreed formal statement of the arrangements (normally in the form of an Institutional Agreement and Memorandum of Co-operation). E: The Admission of Students E1 Principles E1.1 The selection of students for admission is based on the ability to benefit as demonstrated through prior educational achievement, motivation and commitment. E1.2 Responsibility for the selection of students lies with Admissions Tutors, nominated by Deans/Heads of School, operating within the general entry requirements for the award specified by the University and any specific course- based requirements. E1.3 The University will not admit applicants unless there is a reasonable expectation that the applicant can fulfil the learning outcomes of the course and reach the required standard for the award. E1.4 The admission of students with disabilities and/or learning difficulties is based on the academic judgement that the student can, with reasonable adjustments by the University, be reasonably expected to fulfil the learning outcomes of the course to achieve the award. E1.5 The admission of individual applicants is at the discretion of the University having regard to the safety and welfare of the University community and the general principles above. P a g e | 20 E1.6 Misrepresentation in the application process E1.6.1 Offers to applicants whom the University believes have willfully or negligently misrepresented information in their application may be withdrawn and the applicant’s contract with, and membership of, the University may be terminated. In the case of UCAS applicants, the Head of Admissions will inform UCAS of the findings. The applicant will be entitled to bring a complaint as detailed in the Admissions Policy and Applicant Complaints Procedure where he/she believes the decision is unreasonable. E1.6.2 Where the University believes that a student has willfully or negligently misrepresented information in their application, a nominee of the Vice-Chancellor may terminate the University’s contract with the student and membership of the University will cease. The student will be given an opportunity to make representations to a nominee of the Vice- Chancellor before such a decision is taken. E2 General Entry Requirements E2.1 The University’s general minimum entry requirement is specified in terms of the standard current qualification operating in England and Wales (see B3.10). Equivalent learning from other study or experience will also meet this requirement. E2.2 In addition to the general entry requirement, individual courses may specify particular subjects of study, areas of learning or experience or levels of performance in relation to admission. Course specific requirements are determined by the Head of School and approved at Course Approval. E2.3 All students must have sufficient competency in English language to study successfully for the proposed award. Competency may be demonstrated by qualification, accreditation of prior learning or separate University test. E2.4 General Entry requirement for admission to undergraduate courses E2.4.1 The minimum level of attainment required for entry to the start of standard courses leading to awards at first degree level is expressed in terms of UCAS Tariff Points. Qualifications and/or experience at an equivalent level are welcomed and will be equally considered. See B3.10. E2.4.2 The University will not normally make unconditional offers to candidates after only one year of post-16 study. E2.4.3 Students applying for undergraduate courses must have a minimum proficiency in English equivalent to IELTS 6* before being offered a place. *Note: where the medium of instruction and assessment of a student’s previous study was English then they may be deemed to have demonstrated English competency at the levels specified above without a separate test. The University reserves the right, however, to request evidence of proficiency through testing. E2.5 Overseas Collaborative Provision: entry and exit requirements. E2.5.1 For undergraduate overseas collaborative programmes which include a structured language programme and related study skills support, an IELTS level equivalent to 4.5 is the minimum entry requirement to level 4 of the collaborative programme. Students must achieve a minimum IELTS score of 6.0, or equivalent, before progressing to level 6 of their course and/or transferring to UCLan. E2.6 Minimum entry requirement for admission to taught postgraduate courses E2.6.1 For details of the minimum requirements, see B3.10. Equivalent learning from other study or experience will also serve to meet this requirement. E2.6.2 Students applying for postgraduate programmes must have a minimum level of proficiency equal to IELTS 6.5* or equivalent. P a g e | 21 E3 The admission of students with criminal convictions E3.1 For some courses (especially those involving contact with children or vulnerable adults) applicants must declare any criminal conviction (spent and/or unspent) and a check through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) may be additionally required for admission. In such cases the Head of School is responsible for ensuring that procedures are in place for the consideration of convictions in line with University and/or professional body requirements and for notifying applicants of the outcome. E4 Admission with credit (including Accreditation of Prior Learning) E4.1 The University operates procedures to formally recognise prior learning gained elsewhere both for admission to a course and, where appropriate, for admission with credit (the award of credit which can be counted towards the requirements for an identified University award). E4.2 Credit for non-University learning towards the requirements for a University award may be gained through articulation agreements, tariff arrangements or the accreditation of prior learning (APL). A student can make an application to apply credit from prior learning to a University course through the Admissions Office when applying for that course. E4.3 Articulation agreements are a form of transfer agreement whereby a specific course delivered in a specific institution elsewhere has been mapped against and is recognised as giving advanced standing onto a named University course. E4.4 Tariff arrangements are a form of credit recognition where the prior learning is such that it is frequently presented for recognition by a number of applicants to a specific course. This is approved and recorded within a programme specification and avoids the need for individual students to apply for accreditation of prior learning. E4.5 APL is the identification and formal acknowledgement of an individual student’s prior learning in order to gain credit towards a specified University award. It may be certificated (from another institution/awarding body) or experiential (drawn from life/work experience). E4.5.1 The types of credit awarded for APL are: Specific Module Credit: where credit is awarded for prior learning which matches the learning outcomes of identified UCLan validated modules. Elective Credit: where the Programme Specification identifies free choice elective module(s), and it is established that the prior learning can be mapped to the required volume and academic level. Course or Subject Credit: where credit is awarded for prior learning which lies within a particular course or subject discipline and permits the achievement of the relevant course learning outcomes but does not necessarily match the content of any specific modules as set out in the Programme Specification. E4.5.2 APL is determined in relation to a specific course. Where a student changes course, the Course Leader must review the appropriateness of the original APL claim to the new course. This may result in the need for a new application by the student. E4.6 Qualifications which are at the level of the University’s general requirements for admission to a course cannot be used to claim admission with credit, with the exception of students who meet the specific requirements for exemptions under Evaluation Committee for Private Universities (ECPU) regulations that apply to courses offered at UCLan CYPRUS. E4.7 The smallest amount of learning which can contribute to any award is a module, irrespective of the credit value. E4.8 Undergraduate study which has already contributed to credit for an undergraduate award may not be counted towards postgraduate awards. E4.9 With the exception noted in E4.10 and E4.11 below, the maximum credit for prior learning towards both undergraduate and postgraduate awards is two thirds of the total credit requirement for the award. In the P a g e | 24 F2.6 The award of the intercalated bachelor’s degree will be conferred at the next graduation ceremony following successful completion of the programme, except in the case of an intercalated taught postgraduate degree programme where the award will be conferred at the same time as completion of the registered programme. G: Assessment G1 Principles of Assessment G1.1 The purpose of assessment is to provide the opportunity for students to demonstrate that they have fulfilled the learning outcomes of the course and achieved the standard required for the award they seek. G1.2 Assessment must reflect individual student achievement and relate it to a standard for each award which is recognised and maintained across Universities and other higher education institutions in the United Kingdom. G2 Module Assessment and Feedback on Assessed Work G2.1 All modules will be assessed. Students are expected to attempt all required assessments for each module for which they are registered, and to do so at the times scheduled unless authorised extensions, special arrangements for students with a disability, or mitigating circumstances allowing deferral have been granted. G2.2 Each module will specify an assessment strategy by which students can demonstrate the achievement of the learning outcomes for that module. G2.3 The maximum number of summative assessment elements in each 20-credit module is not normally more than 2. All modules may be passed on aggregate. Professional body requirements may require that all elements must be passed. G2.4 Generic feedback on all summative elements of assessment which contribute to a module, will be made available to students within 15 working days (3 weeks) of the scheduled submission or examination date. Generic feedback on end of module assessment and dissertations will be made available within 15 working days following the publication of results. G2.5 For all assessments, students will be provided with individual feedback. G2.6 Feedback may be provided in oral, written, audio or digital format as appropriate. G3 Late Submissions G3.1 The University requires students to adhere to submission deadlines for any form of assessment. A penalty will be applied in relation to unauthorised late submission of work. G3.2 Extensions may be granted for up to 10 working days and will be confirmed to the student in writing. The request should be made in writing by the student to the Academic Registry, clearly stating the reason for the extension and detailing the module and assessment where an extension is requested. Students who submit work after an authorised extended deadline date will be awarded a mark of 0% for that element of assessment. Section 3 of the Assessment Handbook provides further information. G3.3 Students who submit work within 5 working days after the published submission date without an authorised extension will be awarded the minimum pass mark (see H3) for that element of assessment (including work graded pass/fail, where the minimum grade would be ‘pass’). All work submitted later than 5 working days after the published submission date without an authorised extension will be awarded a mark of 0% for that element of assessment (work graded pass/fail would receive a ‘fail’). G3.4 Unauthorised late submission at resubmission will automatically be awarded a mark of 0% for that element of assessment. G3.5 Where the nature of the circumstances is such that the extension is required for more than 10 working days, students may submit a case for consideration in accordance with the procedure for Mitigating circumstances. P a g e | 25 G4 Examination Arrangements G4.1 An examination is defined as a formal, timed assessment of any duration which is subject to continuous invigilation. G4.2 The University operates Examination Procedures in relation to the behaviour of examination students (see section 5.1 of the Assessment Handbook). G5 Students with Disabilities and/or Learning Difficulties G5.1 Reasonable adjustments to assessment processes for students with disabilities and/or learning difficulties will be made providing the requirement has been established by an assessment of need undertaken by Disability Services. G6 Assessment Practice G6.1 The University is committed to the principle of maintaining academic standards through the processes of verification and moderation. G6.2 Comments made by the first marker on the student’s work or performance must be available to the moderator for all assessments other than projects/dissertations. G6.3 The University requires all summative assessments to be anonymised where possible. G6.4 All postgraduate and final year undergraduate projects/dissertations must be clean double marked (see section 2.3 in the Assessment Handbook) except where this is precluded because of the method of presentation for students with a disability or learning difficulty. G6.5 Oral presentations or examinations which contribute more than 25% of the overall module mark require at least two members of academic staff to witness the presentation and to agree the mark awarded. G7 Academic Misconduct G7.1 Academic misconduct applies to summative assessment only and includes all forms of cheating, plagiarism, collusion and re-presentation as defined in the Assessment Handbook. G7.2 All instances or allegations of the use of academic misconduct within summative assessment will be investigated in line with the procedure set out in the Assessment Handbook. If the allegation is found to be proven the Academic Integrity Lead or Academic Misconduct Committee acting on behalf of the Assessment Board will implement the appropriate academic penalty in the module and report it to the Assessment Board. Categories of academic misconduct and related penalties are specified in the Assessment Handbook. P a g e | 26 G7.3 An Assessment Board will not come to a decision on a student’s result where an instance or allegation of the use of academic misconduct has not been resolved. G7.4 Where evidence of academic misconduct becomes available subsequent to the recommendation of the Assessment Board, the matter will be re-opened at a subsequent meeting of the Board and the original recommendation may be set aside if appropriate. G7.5 Any appeal against the decision of the Academic Integrity Lead or Academic Misconduct Committee will be heard under Stage 1 of the Procedure for Appeals against Assessment Board decisions, as set out in section 7 of the Assessment Handbook. An appeal will only be valid if it is based on the following grounds: i that the original decision was not conducted fairly and/or in accordance with the published procedure; ii that the original decision was unreasonable in all the circumstances. G8 Composition and Responsibilities of Assessment Boards G8.1 Examiners/assessors are required to declare any close personal or business relationship with a student which could reasonably question the impartiality of the examining/assessment process. The Chair of the Assessment Board will determine the most appropriate action in such cases. G8.2 Module Assessment Boards G8.2.1 Each School will operate Module Assessment Boards for all modules assigned to that School. Membership will comprise the Head of School or nominee (Chair) and academic staff, including those from partner institutions, associated with the delivery of the modules. G8.2.2 The quorum for Module Assessment Boards shall be the attendance of the Head of School or nominee (Chair) and an internal examiner able to report fully on all results for each module considered by the Board. Attendance at all boards should be kept to a minimum and should not involve all staff teaching on each module. G8.2.3 Where a module runs solely at a Partner Institution, the University may delegate to the Partner Institution the operation of the Module Assessment Board. G8.2.4 It is the responsibility of the Module Assessment Board to determine the mark/grade achieved by each student in individual modules and to make recommendations to the appropriate Course Assessment Board in relation to reassessment and compensation. G8.2.5 Marks/grades determined by Module Assessment Boards shall not be subject to revision by other Boards. G8.3 Course Assessment Boards G8.3.1 Each School will operate a Course Assessment board which covers each Course for which the School is responsible. Membership will comprise the Head of School (Chair), and relevant Course Leader (s). Attendance of External examiner is ONLY required where final awards are being made and may be attendance remotely. G8.3.2 The Chair of the Course Assessment Board must have undertaken the required training and be on the University’s ‘List of Approved Chairs’. G8.3.3 The quorum for the Course Assessment Board shall be the attendance of the Head of School or nominee (Chair), Course Leaders as appropriate for each course under consideration within the school and where f inal awards are being made only and the External Examiner(s). In exceptional circumstances, the Head of School may nominate an appropriate deputy for a Course Leader who is unavoidably absent. G8.3.4 Where a course runs solely at a Partner Institution, the University may delegate to the Partner Institution the operation of the Course Assessment Board. G8.3.5 If in exceptional circumstances no External Examiner(s) is able to be present (either in person or remotely) when final awards are being made, the External Examiner(s) will be required to confirm the recommendations of the Course Assessment Board and communicate his/her views by written correspondence to the Chair of P a g e | 29 Compensation must not be applied where the module mark falls below the threshold mark of 30% for undergraduate modules (Levels 3, 4, 5 and 6) or 45% for modules at Level 7 or above and modules utilised solely on the undergraduate professional programmes in Medicine and Dentistry (BDS, MBBS). A higher threshold may be set where there are sound academic reasons such as professional body requirements. G10.3 The number of credits which can be compensated within an award is limited according to the maxima shown in the following table. Course regulations may specify less than the maximum where this is appropriate or where professional body requirements so dictate. Type of Award Maximum credits Level 3 Level 4 Level 5 Level 6 Level 7 1. Stage 0 20 2. Certificate of Achievement Not applicable 3. Certificate 0 4. Advanced Certificate 0 5. Diploma 6. Higher National Certificate and Higher Certificate 40 7. Higher National Diploma 40 20 8. Cert HE/Foundation Certificate 40 9. Dip HE 40 20 10. Foundation Degree 40 20 11. Degree and Advanced Diploma 40 20 20 12. Honours Degree 40 20 Plus an additional 20 credits at either L5 or L6 20 13. Top-Up Degree (Hons) and Senior Status LLB 20 14. Honours Degree for overseas provision with 4 years study 40 20 Plus an additional 20 credits at either L5 or L6 20 15. Honours Degree for Cyprus Campus provision with 4 years Study cycle Yr 1 40 20 20 Yr 2 40 Type of Award Maximum (credits shown in brackets) 16. Integrated Masters 40 20 Plus an additional 20 credits at either L5, L6 or L7 20 20 17. Graduate/Postgraduate Diploma 20 18. Graduate/Postgraduate Certificate Not applicable 19. Taught /Professional Masters Degree 20 credit taught module 20. Professional Awards in the fields of Medicine 20 credit taught module Stage 1 21. Professional Doctorate 20 credit module at Stage 1 P a g e | 30 G10.4 Where a Course Assessment Board applies compensation to a module the original mark or grade shall not be altered, and that original mark will be used in any award classification. G10.5 Performance in core modules cannot be compensated. G10.6 Compensation should be considered and applied at the earliest opportunity. G11 Module Reassessment G11.1 The decision to offer reassessment lies with the Course Assessment Board taking account of the recommendations from Module Boards and the student’s overall profile. P a g e | 30 G11.2 Where a student has failed a component and is required to be reassessed in that component, the maximum mark which may be awarded for any reassessed component will be the minimum pass mark (i.e. 40 for Level 3, 4, 5 and 6 modules and 50 for Level 7 modules and all modules with registerable qualifications). This mark will contribute to the overall aggregate mark for the module. G11.3 Where the module does not require the student to pass each component of assessment, but the module is failed on aggregate, if following re-assessment, the capping of the component mark (application of G11.2) prevents the student from passing the module, the module mark will be capped rather than the component mark. G11.4 A module, or a component within it, may be reassessed only once. G11.5 In-module reassessment is permitted and if marked numerically is subject to the requirements of G11.2 and G11.4 (i.e. that the assessment is capped, and a further attempt is treated as the reassessment opportunity). In-module skills tests which are graded pass/fail are not subject to G11. 2 andG11.4. G11.6 If upon reassessment the original mark and the reassessed mark are both under the minimum pass mark, the higher of the two marks will be used in any subsequent averaging calculation. G12 Module Attempts G12.1 The definition of ‘attempt’ is a student’s first ‘sit’ and any ‘resit’ (of any component of assessment) within a module. A retake of the same or an alternative module in a subsequent year or semester is considered to be a separate second attempt. The following are not considered to be ‘separate attempts’ 1. where a student is reassessed for a module; 2. re-enrolment for the module in a subsequent semester where a module grade is ‘deferred’. 3. Where, because of mitigating circumstances, a student is permitted to repeat a year, all module results from the original year will be invalidated and such modules will not count towards the total number of attempts. G12.2 Except in the case of Certificate and Advanced Certificate Awards, or where Pearson regulations apply, there shall be a limit to the number of module attempts permitted within each award. G12.3 The number of credits which may be attempted within certain awards is stipulated as follows: Award Minimum credit Requirement Permitted Additional credit Attempts as defined in G12 above Certificate 20 Not applicable Advanced Certificate 40 Not applicable Certificate of Higher Education 120 120 Diploma of Higher Education 240 120 Foundation Certificate 120 120 Foundation Degree 240 120 Higher National Diploma 240 Not applicable Higher National Certificate 160 Not applicable Diploma 100 100 Graduate Certificate 60 40 Graduate Diploma 120 120 Postgraduate Certificate 60 40 Degree and Advanced Diploma 320 120 at Stage 1* 6 120 at Stage 2 P a g e | 30 academic progress is deemed unsatisfactory, the appropriate Course Assessment Board may determine that a student’s studies be terminated. G13.2 Students on professionally regulated courses which lead directly to or which satisfy the conditions of a professional qualification, or which confer a direct licence to practise, are also subject to the University’ s Fitness to Practise Procedure. H: Course Awards and Results H1 Principles H1.1 Awards are recommended by Course Assessment Boards acting with delegated authority from the Academic Board. H1.2 Course Assessment Boards will make recommendations for awards through the application of the academic and relevant course regulations using academic judgement to operate discretion within the limits defined in these Regulations. H2 Marking and Grading H2.1 The University uses a grade band marking scale as detailed in the Assessment Handbook Section 2.1.7. This marking scale contains a fixed number of percentage points in each class band which is assigned by a marker for a piece of assessed work. H2.2 For modules at Levels 3, 4, 5 and 6, the term pass refers to a mark >=40. Ungraded credit is a pass. Compensated modules are treated as passes for the purposes of determining that the module requirement has been met. For modules at Level 7 and above, the term pass refers to a mark >=50. Modules utilised solely on the undergraduate professional programmes in Medicine and Dentistry (BDS, MBBS) have a pass mark of 50. H2.3 In addition to grading bands, the University uses a system of grades and codes to denote study performance. Description Grade Distinction in placement D Merit in placement M Pass P Satisfactory S Unsatisfactory U Fail (where aggregate module mark is at or above the minimum pass mark but a core element is failed) F Decision deferred I Decision deferred at reassessment IR Not graded NG Associate/Exchange student: not assessed Z Compensated failed module C Fail: reassessment recommended R Fail: reassessment not taken up X Fail: retake module K H3 Recommendation for Award H3.1 Students are assessed for the registered award on completion of the appropriate module minima. H3.2 To be recommended for an award a student must have: P a g e | 30 1. achieved passes in the module requirement specified for the award; 2. passed any additional requirements specified by a Course associated with the award including core modules, defined combinations of modules and placements; H3.3 Compensated modules are treated as passes for the purposes of determining that the module requirement has been met. H4 Classification of Awards H4.1 The classification of awards is based on the Average Percentage Mark (APM) - a calculation derived from the marks achieved in specified modules. Classifications are subject to other conditions as detailed below. H4.2 The APM for the Honours Degree is a weighted average which recognises higher level study through the ratio 2:8 for Level 5: Level 6. See H4.5 below for the application of each ratio. H4.3 The APM for all other awards is a weighted average which recognises higher level study through the ratio 1:2:3:4 for Level 4: Level 5: Level 6: Level 7. H4.4 A minimum APM of X9.5 will be rounded up to the next classification for all awards. H4.5 Honours Degree The classification of awards for Honours Degrees will be based on the highest classification outcome from one of the following: 1 The APM based on a weighted average of the best 100 credits at Level 6 and the best 100 credits at Level 5 using the ratio 2:8 for Level 5: Level 6. 2 The APM based on the best 100 credits at Level 6. 3 The classification is determined by reference to the overall profile and performance with the minimum requirement that: i a minimum of 60 credits at Level 6 are in the classification band. and ii the highest APM is no lower than 2 percentage points below that required for the classification For Honours Degrees the following scale will be used to determine the award classification: APM: 70 - 100% First Class Honours 60 - 69% Upper Second Class Honours 50 - 59% Lower Second Class Honours 40 - 49% Third Class Honours H4.5 Degree without Honours/Advanced Diploma The classification of awards for the Degree without Honours/Advanced Diploma will be based on an APM derived from a weighted average of all Level 5 and Level 6 modules. For the Degree without Honours/Advanced Diploma the following classifications are available: APM: 70 - 100% Distinction 60 - 69% Merit P a g e | 31 H4.6 Integrated Masters Degree/Bachelor in Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery/Bachelor of Dental Surgery The classification of awards will be based on the highest classification outcome from one of the following: 1 The APM based on a weighted average of 12 modules at Stage 3. 2 The APM based on a weighted average of 18 modules at Stage2/3 3 The classification is determined by reference to the overall profile and performance with the minimum requirement that: • a minimum of 60 credits at Level 7 are in the classification band and • the highest APM is no lower than 2 percentage points below that required for the classification For Integrated Masters Degrees the following scale will be used to determine the award classification: APM: 70 - 100% First Class Honours 60 - 69% Upper Second Class Honours 50 - 59% Lower Second Class Honours 40 - 49% Third Class Honours For the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) and Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB BS) an APM of 70% or above may be recognised by the award of BDS with Honours or the award of MB BS with Honours. H4.7 Taught/Professional Masters Degree The classification of awards for Taught/Professional Masters Degree will be based on an APM derived from all Level 7 modules. Any Level 6 modules must be passed but will be excluded from the calculation of the APM. For Taught/Professional Masters Degree awards the following scale will be used to determine the classification: APM Award 70% or above Distinction 60% or above Merit H4.8 Postgraduate Diploma/Certificate The classification of awards for the Postgraduate Diploma/Certificate will be based on an APM derived from all Level 7 modules. Any Level 6 modules must be passed but will be excluded from the calculation of the APM. For Postgraduate Diploma/Certificate awards the following scale will be used to determine the award classification: APM: 70 - 100% Distinction 60 - 69% Merit P a g e | 34 Registered Award Exit award/s Minimum credit requirement for Exit Award Level Certificate of Higher Education 120 at Level 4 or above Postgraduate Diploma Postgraduate Certificate 60 at Level 6 or above with a minimum of 40 credits at Level 7 or above. (Taught) Masters Degree/Professional Masters Postgraduate Diploma 120 at Level 6 or above with a minimum of 100 credits at Level 7 or above Postgraduate Certificate 60 at Level 6 or above with a minimum of 40 credits at Level 7 or above. Professional Doctorate Masters/Professional Masters 180 at level 7 or above Postgraduate Diploma 120 at level 7 or above Postgraduate Certificate 60 at level 7 or above * Students are required to attempt 120 credits and may only be awarded a degree following failure in one or two modules. I: Appeals against Assessment Board Decisions I1 Principles I1.1 An appeal cannot be made against the academic judgement of the examiner(s), properly exercised. Appeals on this basis will be ruled invalid. I1.2 Details of the rules and procedures for Appeals can be found in the Assessment Handbook. I2 Grounds for Appeal against Assessment Board decisions I2.1 A request for an appeal against an Assessment Board decision (other than a decision relating to academic misconduct – see below) shall be valid only if it is based on one or more of the following grounds: i. that an Assessment Board has given insufficient weight to mitigating circumstances; ii. that the student’s academic performance has been adversely affected by mitigating circumstances which the student has, for good reason, been unable to make known to the Assessment Board; iii. that there has been a material administrative error at a stage of the process, or that some material irregularities have occurred; iv. that the assessment procedure and/or examinations have not been conducted in accordance with the approved regulations (this fourth ground will not be relevant to an appeal against a decision relating to an interruption or discontinuance of study. Such an appeal should be based on one or more of the three grounds above). P a g e | 35 Where a student is seeking to appeal a decision of the Assessment Board relating to academic misconduct, the appeal will only be valid if it is based on the following grounds: (i) that the original hearing was not conducted fairly and/or in accordance with the published procedure; (ii) that the original decision was unreasonable in all the circumstances. The full procedure is set out at section 7 in the Assessment Handbook. J: External Examiners J1 Principles J1.1 The external examining process is fundamental to ensuring that the University’s standards of awards are comparable with those across the HE sector in the United Kingdom. J1.2 Every award bearing course will have an External Examiner appointed to it. J2 Appointment of External Examiners J2.1 External examiners are appointed by the University (subject to any required approval from external validating bodies) using criteria and procedures agreed by the Academic Board. J2.2 The University reserves the right to terminate appointments where the role is not fully or properly discharged. J2.3 The standard appointment period is 4 years. K: Extraordinary Circumstances Governing the Assessment Process K1. Principles K1.1 The guiding principle of the University’s response to extraordinary circumstances will be to maintain the academic standards of its programmes, the credibility of its awards and its own reputation. Subject to the maintenance of this principle, and to professional body requirements, every reasonable step will be taken to expedite the determination of awards and the progression of students. K1.2 Extraordinary circumstances may be caused by external factors beyond the control of the University, which interfere with normal assessment processes or procedures and create a risk that the determination of awards or the progression of students will be delayed, though the functioning of the University is not radically or lastingly affected. Episodes of industrial action, or disruptive natural events such as epidemics or flooding, are examples. K2 Process K2.1 There will be a formal declaration by the Vice-Chancellor of the beginning, anticipated duration (where this can be estimated) and end of any episode of ‘extraordinary circumstances. K2.2 The body responsible for approving special arrangements for the determination of awards and progression in the light of K1.1 above will be the Academic Board. K2.3 The decisions open to the Academic Board are: (i) to delay recommendations until full information is available; (ii) to allow recommendations to be made on a basis of less than complete profiles of marks. These recommendations must be decisive but may be partial, e.g. the award of a qualification but with the award of merit/distinction delayed; progression to the next year/stage but with the possibility of one or more modules required to be reassessed or retaken. P a g e | 36 K2.4 Where the operation of the approved modes of assessment within a module or course has been disrupted by extraordinary circumstances, the Academic Board may authorise the use of modes of assessment different from those set out in approved course documentation, provided that (i) such alternative modes of assessment provide evidence sufficient for a judgement that specified learning outcomes have or have not been achieved; and (ii) such alternative modes of assessment are approved by relevant External Examiners and professional bodies, where appropriate.