Approved : Senate – September 2003
University Policy, Procedures and Guidelines on
Postgraduate Instructional Programmes
POSTGRADUATE INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMMES
CONTENTS
Foreword ______________________________________________________________
POLICY_________________________________________________________________ 1
1
Academic Standards ________________________________________________ 1
Awards Framework and Regulations____________________________________________ 1
Programme Structures_______________________________________________________ 1
Classes _________________________________________________________
Credits__________________________________________________________
Structures _______________________________________________________
Learning Outcomes________________________________________________
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning (APL) ___________________
Awards Terminology _______________________________________________
1
1
2
2
2
3
Admission ________________________________________________________________ 3
Assessment _______________________________________________________________ 3
Programmes leading to an Award or Joint Award of the University ____________________ 4
2
Programmes ______________________________________________________ 4
Management ______________________________________________________________ 4
Senate Approval ___________________________________________________________ 4
Student Views _____________________________________________________________ 5
Collaboration with another Institution/Agency Leading to Awards or Joint Awards of the University 5
3
Students and the Learning Environment _______________________________ 5
Information to Students ______________________________________________________
Admission ________________________________________________________________
The Learning Experience ____________________________________________________
Student Progress ___________________________________________________________
Student Assessment ________________________________________________________
Student Feedback and Representation __________________________________________
Student Support Services ____________________________________________________
Academic Integrity __________________________________________________________
Academic Appeals __________________________________________________________
Student Complaints other than Academic Appeals _________________________________
6
7
7
7
8
8
8
8
9
9
PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES ___________________________________________ 9
4
Admission ________________________________________________________ 9
Application ________________________________________________________________ 9
Selection ________________________________________________________________ 10
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning (APL) ___________________________ 10
Offer of Admission _________________________________________________________ 11
Registration ______________________________________________________________ 11
5
Mode and Duration of Study ________________________________________ 11
6
General Responsibilities of the Course Director ________________________ 11
7
General Responsibilities of the Student _______________________________ 13
8
Supervised Work __________________________________________________ 13
Responsibilities of the Supervisor _____________________________________________ 13
Absence of the Supervisor __________________________________________________ 14
Responsibilities of the Supervised Student ______________________________________ 14
Policy and Code of Practice for Postgraduate Instructional Programmes
Approved: September 2003
University of Strathclyde
9
Assessment ______________________________________________________ 15
Methods of Assessment ____________________________________________________
Overall Assessment ________________________________________________________
Board of Examiners ________________________________________________________
Academic Dishonesty ______________________________________________________
10
15
15
16
16
Monitoring Progress _______________________________________________ 18
Routine Monitoring_________________________________________________________ 18
Institutional Monitoring ______________________________________________________ 18
11
Feedback Mechanisms _____________________________________________ 18
Student/Staff Committees ___________________________________________________ 18
Student Evaluation Forms ___________________________________________________ 18
Other Mechanisms_________________________________________________________ 18
12
Academic Appeals ________________________________________________ 19
13
Student Complaints other than Academic Appeals ______________________ 19
14
Contacts List _____________________________________________________ 16
Please contact the Governance, Management and Policy team (gmap@.strath.ac.uk), ext. 2754) if
you have any queries.
University of Strathclyde
POSTGRADUATE INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMMES
Foreword
This statement of University Policy, Procedures and Guidelines for Postgraduate Instructional
Programmes was approved by Senate in November 2000 and has been revised several times,
most recently in October 2009. It should be read in conjunction with the General Regulations for
Instructional Masters Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas and
Postgraduate Certificates
(Regulations 19 and 19.1). These regulations together with any additional course regulations are
included in Part 3 of the University Calendar: reference copies of the University Calendar are held
in Academic Departments, the Andersonian Library and the Jordanhill Library.
The main changes from the earlier Procedures and Guidelines are:
•
A requirement for PGI programmes normally to be modular and credit rated in accord with the
University’s awards framework and guidelines for awarding credit
•
Formal requirements for dealing with credit transfer and recognition of prior learning have been
clarified
•
Procedures for the operation of PGI Boards of Examiners have been strengthened
Staff are expected to implement the revised policy with immediate effect, as all changes have
previously been approved by the appropriate University Committee and/or Senate. This document
will be made available on the University’s web site for current and future postgraduate instructional
students, PGI Course Directors, Heads of Department and Senior Academic Officers of each
Faculty. A hard copy will be circulated to Heads of Department. Course Directors should also
inform students at the outset of their studies of any supplementary procedures that apply to the
particular course.
A review of the Postgraduate Instructional Student Experience is currently being undertaken and
these Procedures and Guidelines will be reviewed in the light of the outcomes of that process, the
proposed credit restructuring of postgraduate instructional courses and any changes in the external
environment.
RMK
October 2009
http://www.strath.ac.uk/staff/policies/
University of Strathclyde
POSTGRADUATE INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMMES
POLICY
1
Academic Standards
Awards Framework and Regulations
1.1
The University has adopted a coherent framework for awards from sub degree to
postgraduate level. The University’s awards framework recognises two postgraduate
levels:
Masters level is equivalent to Level 11 (or SHE5) in the Scottish Credit and
Qualifications Framework (SCQF)
Doctoral level is equivalent to Level 12 (or SHE6) in the Scottish Credit and
Qualifications Framework (SCQF).
1.2
The University offers the following postgraduate awards at Masters (SHE5) level
through postgraduate instructional programmes:
Masters
Postgraduate Diploma
Postgraduate Certificate
1.3
Postgraduate instructional courses leading to the awards in paragraph 1.2 above are
governed by the General Regulations for Instructional Masters Degrees,
Postgraduate Diplomas and Postgraduate Certificates (see Regulations 19 and 19.1
in Part 3 of the University Calendar) and any specific Course Regulations (see Part 3
of the University Calendar).
Programme Structures
1.4
Classes
PG Instructional programmes are normally modular and credit rated using the same
basis for assigning the level and volume of credit.
1.5
Advanced UG classes may be included, unchanged, in PG Instructional programmes
provided that the credit volume of such classes does not exceed 10 credits.
1.6
Advanced UG classes may also be used as inputs to PG Instructional classes but
with assessments and assessment criteria set at a PG level (i.e. assessments and
assessment criteria for the PG delivery will be appropriately different from those used
for the UG classes). The combined credit volume of PG Instructional classes with
UG inputs and Advanced UG classes must not exceed 30 credits.
1.7
Credits
Postgraduate Instructional classes are credit rated by:
i.
the assignment of a level, normally Masters Level (SHE5), or possibly Doctoral
Level (SHE6)
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ii.
1.8
1.9
a volume descriptor (i.e. number of credits).
Postgraduate programme structures within the University are based on each PG
credit requiring a notional 10 hours of study by a typical student.
Structures
Postgraduate instructional programmes define a credit requirement compatible with
the following:
Award
Indicative Credit
Requirement
Minimum Level
Requirement
Integrated Masters Degree
MEng, MSci, MPharm
600
90 credits at level 5 (M Level)
210 credits at Levels 4 + 5
Integrated Masters with Diploma
MEngDiplMan, MEngDiplEnt
PG Certificate
700
60
90 credits at level 5 (M Level)
210 credits at Levels 4 + 5
50 credits at level 5 (M Level)
PG Diploma
120
100 credits at level 5 (M Level)
Masters Degree
180
150 credits at level 5 (M Level)
Note
1.10
1.11
1.
Where appropriate Advanced UG classes may be included unchanged in PGI courses
normally up to a limit of 10 credits. This limit may be increased to 30 credits if the
assessments and assessment criteria for such classes are modified to be genuinely
postgraduate.
2.
The student intake to Integrated Masters Programmes is highly selective, the courses
are intensive and well integrated so that the Masters level credit volume required to
achieve the necessary learning outcomes is less than for a stand alone Masters
programme. Normally between 90 and 120 credits must be achieved at Masters Level
to justify the award of an integrated Masters Degree. Where Masters level classes
include material also used at level 4, learning outcomes are assessed at level 5.
Professional Bodies also accredit Integrated Masters Programmes as appropriate.
Learning Outcomes
Learning outcomes are clearly specified both for overall programmes and for
individual classes. These take account of the level descriptors for the National
Postgraduate Framework(s). A Programme Specification is produced for each
programme.
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
The University endeavours to facilitate arrangements for Continuing Professional
Development (CPD). In this context, Course Directors consider whether it is
practicable and desirable to make arrangements to recognise appropriate prior
learning for the purpose of admission to and/or exemption from elements of their
postgraduate instructional programmes.
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1.12
Exemption on the basis of RPL is allowed primarily where students can demonstrate
that the relevant specific learning outcomes have been achieved (i.e. primarily for
specific rather than general credits). For postgraduate awards exemption will
preferably be less than 34% and normally not more than 50%. Exceptionally, up to
67% exemption for RPL may be allowed where articulation between a Strathclyde
programme and a programme delivered elsewhere is approved by Senate.
1.13
RPL used for exemption will normally have been achieved within the 5 years prior to
the student starting the Strathclyde postgraduate programme.
1.14
Credit derived from RPL may only be used once, be it for entry or exemption
1.15
Awards Terminology
Masters degrees by instruction are qualified by a limited number of broad discipline
descriptors (MSc, LLM, MA, MLitt, MEd, MBA, MArch, MTM, MEnvs, MCM, MIM).
Titles for PG Diplomas and Certificates normally reflect the detailed subject of study.
Admission
1.16
Students are admitted to postgraduate instructional programmes if they are
considered to have the necessary experience, qualifications and motivation to
succeed in achieving the award to which that programme leads (see paragraphs 3.3
to 3.5).
Assessment
1.17
Student assessments are designed and approved as an integral part of the class and
course to test the stated learning outcomes. A variety of methods are used as
appropriate and students are informed in advance of the nature of the assessment.
Required standards of achievement and credit values for each course and class
should be explicit, owned by all the staff and made known to the students.
1.18
Departments/courses take steps to ensure the authenticity of student work and that
assessments that contribute to a final award (including the award of credits) continue
to be fair, valid, reliable and set at the proper level.
1.19
Postgraduate instructional classes and courses define a threshold standard of
performance for determining passes. Where numerical assessment is used, Senate
has agreed that a common pass mark of 50% for all postgraduate instructional
classes should be applied. To allow a genuine and appropriate degree of flexibility,
an award may be conferred if the student achieves an average mark of at least 50%
across the programme, with individual modules achieving a mark of not less than
40%. Notwithstanding this, progression from a Postgraduate Diploma to a Master
course may require students to achieve a higher standard or mark.
1.20
At the discretion of the relevant Board of Examiners, students may be allowed to
repeat, or to be reassessed on, failed classes. Students are normally allowed at least
one opportunity to be reassessed on any failed class. The arrangements for each
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course are included in the regulations for that course and conveyed to students in
handbooks or similar.
1.21
Boards of Examiners have explicit, written operating rules to supplement the basic
course regulations, for example, for dealing with medical evidence. These operating
rules may also allow the Board to exercise its discretion based on the wider
experience of the Board and its External Examiners. Any discretionary decisions and
reasons for them are clearly documented.
Programmes leading to an Award or Joint Award of the University
1.22
The University collaborates with other institutions/agencies to provide joint
programmes where there is mutual benefit to the students and institutions concerned.
Where the University validates a course delivered in whole or in part by the
collaborating institution, it accepts responsibility for the academic standard of the
programme which it monitors alongside its own programmes using the same or
similar structures and processes.
2
Programmes
Management
2.1
In managing its courses the University operates a system of devolved responsibility
and expects that:
i.
the responsibilities of individual members of staff will be clearly defined;
ii.
individual members of staff will have appropriate opportunities for staff
development;
iii.
peer judgement and expert comment will take place through the academic
management structure;
iv.
external input to course development and review will be sought, where
appropriate;
v.
continuing course review and enhancement will take place;
vi.
innovative teaching, learning and student assessment methods will be
considered where appropriate;
vii.
alternative modes of study will be considered where appropriate;
viii.
information technology will be used to support and enhance course delivery
and student assessment, where appropriate and feasible.
Senate Approval
2.2
In its course approval role, Senate:
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i.
oversees the University’s portfolio of courses;
ii.
provides a broad spectrum of academic viewpoints and expertise;
iii.
aims to ensure that standards are maintained by peer judgement and
comparison across a wide range of disciplines;
iv.
normally acts on the recommendation of the relevant Board of Study;
v.
seeks detailed advice from University Committees, particularly the Education
Strategy Committee and the Ordinances and Regulations Committee.
Student Views
2.3
The University expects the views of students to be taken into account: as part of
continuous feedback on the effectiveness of teaching, as part of annual course
monitoring and when considering the introduction of a new course where this is
practicable.
Collaboration with another Institution/Agency Leading to Awards or Joint Awards of
the University
2.4
2.5
The University collaborates with other institutions/agencies where there is mutual
benefit to the students and institutions concerned. The University:
i.
may collaborate with appropriate UK or Overseas institutions/agencies to
offer joint courses or otherwise to support the distance delivery of University
courses;
ii.
may validate courses offered by other UK or Overseas institutions/agencies
that complement the University’s portfolio and are of an appropriate standard;
iii.
may enter into appropriate articulation arrangements with other institutions/
agencies that allow students to enter specific University degree courses with
advanced standing;
iv.
does not normally franchise its courses to other institutions/agencies.
Any joint programme that leads to awards or joint awards of the University is
governed by a formal agreement that is approved by Senate and signed by a Senior
Officer of the University.
See the Policy and Code of Practice for Collaborative (Off-Campus and Overseas)
Courses leading to Awards or Joint Awards of the University and Flexible and
Distributed Learning (including e-learning) at http://strath.ac.uk/staff/policies/
3
Students and the Learning Environment
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Information to Students
3.1
The University aims to provide students and prospective students with accurate,
appropriate and timely information at each stage of their studies (pre-entry,
registration and induction, progress events, and prior to assessments). The Course
Team provide much of this information orally. Critical information is also confirmed in
writing. All postgraduate instructional students receive this statement of University
Procedures and Guidelines with their offer letter. Faculties and departments provide
more detailed information about and procedures relevant to courses in Handbooks or
similar. The University and some faculties and departments produce a postgraduate
prospectus.
3.2
Increasingly the University is making information available to students and
prospective students through the world wide web. Faculties and departments
maintain their own web pages giving information about research specialisations. The
PEGASUS system gives staff and students appropriate access to data held on the
University’s student record system and the Virtual Learning Environment facilitates
communication between students and between staff and students. Access to
personal data complies with data protection legislation.
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Admission
3.3
The decision to admit a postgraduate instructional student will be made by the
Course Director (see paragraph 4.4). The Registry supports the admissions process
and the International Office provides additional support for overseas applicants.
3.4
The University’s Equal Opportunities and Racial Equality policies apply to all aspects
of the recruitment process.
3.5
It is normal practice for references to be sought on potential students and interviews
are arranged wherever practicable.
The Learning Experience
3.6
The Course Director (or nominees):
i.
establishes contact with the student at the outset of his/her studies;
ii.
ensures that the student is introduced to the relevant university communities;
iii.
ensures that the student is made aware of academic and other information
related to his/her studies and general wellbeing;
iv.
generally guides the student throughout the period of his/her studies.
Where a dissertation, or project, or report is required in addition to the instructional
part of the course, a Supervisor is normally appointed for each student to oversee
this activity.
3.7
Each student is also made aware of his/her responsibilities within the learning
arrangements and particularly his/her responsibility to seek help in the event of any
difficulties.
3.8
For each student there is a named individual other than his/her Supervisor or the
Course Director whom the student may approach in confidence for advice. This
individual may be an Academic Counsellor, Postgraduate Convenor/Tutor, Head of
Department or other member of staff and in this role he/she will provide advice
independently rather than as a member of the Course Team.
Student Progress
3.9
The Course Team regularly sets and gives feedback to students on coursework and
assignments. If a student is concerned about his/her performance, he/she should
consult a member of the Course Team, the Course Director or his/her “independent”
adviser (see paragraph 6.4).
3.10
The University’s Quality Monitoring Committee carries out an annual review of
completion rates for all full-time postgraduate instructional courses.
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Student Assessment
3.11
Arrangements for assessments are indicated in paragraphs 1.17 to 1.21.
3.12
University Procedures and Guidelines set down definitions of academic dishonesty
and indicate procedures for dealing with possible instances (see paragraph 3.17).
Students are also advised of University policy in this area in course or student
Handbooks, and in the Guidelines for Students on Good Academic Practice and the
Avoidance of Plagiarism (see http://www.strath.ac.uk/plagiarism/).
3.13
Anonymous marking is widely employed for formal written examinations. Double
marking is good practice for assessments that are not marked anonymously.
Student Feedback and Representation
3.14
The University welcomes feedback from postgraduate instructional students on any
aspect of their studies and learning environment through:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
Faculty and Department Student/Staff Committees;
University of Strathclyde Students’ Association;
The Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey;
any other appropriate channels such as telluswhatyouthink@strath.ac.uk.
Student Support Services
3.15
The University also provides a range of student support services through the:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
vi.
vii.
viii.
ix.
x.
xi.
xii.
xiii.
xiv.
Careers Service;
Centre for Academic Practice and Learning Enhancement;
Learning Services;
Chaplaincy Centre;
International and Graduate Office;
Registry;
Residences and Catering;
Student Advisory and Counselling Service;
Student Health Service;
Disability Service;
Student Finance Office;
Sports Centre;
University of Strathclyde Students’ Association;
University Library.
Academic Integrity
3.16
In common with all other academic institutions, the University of Strathclyde has a
strong tradition and culture of personal and professional honesty and integrity in its
approach to teaching, learning and research. The University aims to provide all
research students with:
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3.17
i.
a proper understanding of the importance of academic honesty;
ii.
an awareness of what constitutes academic dishonesty and how to avoid it;
iii.
a knowledge of the appropriate standards for academic writing in their field of
study.
As guidelines for academic staff, the University has issued University Procedures and
Guidelines for Dealing with Possible Instances of Academic Dishonesty (see
http://www.strath.ac.uk/staff/policies/). This document encourages staff to raise
student awareness of the issues and includes examples of unacceptable behaviour
and advice on designing assignments to reduce the chance of this occurring. It also
includes procedures for dealing with possible instances of academic dishonesty in
order to facilitate a fair and consistent approach across the whole University. Serious
instances are referred to the Senate Discipline Committee in accord with University
Regulations.
Academic Appeals
3.18
A student may appeal, in accord with Regulation 19.1.34 (see Part 3 of the University
Calendar), against transfer or termination of registration or against a decision of the
Faculty Board of Study and Senate not to award a degree. Initial appeal is to the
Faculty and any secondary appeal is to the Senate. Such appeals are dealt with in
accord with the principles of natural justice and the maintenance of academic
standards. Procedures for dealing with academic appeals are detailed in the
University
Policy
and
Procedures
for
Academic
Appeals
(see
http://www.strath.ac.uk/staff/policies/).
Student Complaints other than Academic Appeals
3.19
Procedures for dealing with student complaints other than academic appeals are
detailed in the University Policy and Procedures for Student Complaints (see
http://www.strath.ac.uk/staff/policies/).
PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES
4
Admission
Application
4.1
Applicants are required to complete the appropriate University application form, either
online (http://www.strath.ac.uk/prospectus/postgraduateapplications/), or by post or
facsimile. In line with other Universities in the UK, the University operates a screening
procedure for all applicants in respect of previous criminal convictions. Application
forms and information on application procedures are available from the University
Registry. Although there is no formal closing date for applications, most full-time
instructional courses start in September and applicants are encouraged to apply by
the end of March. If places are available, applications will be considered up to the
date the course commences.
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4.2
For students participating in In-Company Schemes, application is normally made
through the company and/or the department concerned.
4.3
For PGDE courses offered by the Faculty of Education applicants are asked to
submit applications by 15 December to allow time for interviews.
Selection
4.4
A recommendation to admit an applicant will be made by the relevant Course
Director or the Director’s nominee on the basis of:
i.
whether the applicant meets the entry requirements as published in the
University Calendar;
ii.
whether the applicant has adequate proficiency in the English language
[currently the University requires potential candidates whose first language is
not English, to have achieved a minimum score of 6.5 in the International
English Language Testing Service or equivalent demonstration. Additional
English Language tuition can be provided by the University’s English
Language Teaching Division if required];
iii.
information provided by references or interview;
iv.
any additional information that may be requested by the Course Director;
Some courses may also request a commitment fee (e.g. the part-time and flexible
learning MBA).
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
4.5
Appropriate formal and/or experiential prior learning may be recognised for the
purpose of admission to and/or exemption in postgraduate instructional programmes
as indicated in individual course regulations (see part 3 of the University Calendar).
4.6
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in this context might be on the basis of an award
other than a UK first degree or may, in the case of experiential learning, involve
assessment of a portfolio of evidence prepared by the student and accompanied by a
reflective commentary detailing how the learning experience has contributed to the
student’s academic and/or professional development.
4.7
The following University-wide procedural guidelines have been adopted to govern
RPL:
i.
There should be a named individual or body at the programme level
responsible for making the initial assessment of claims.
ii.
There should be oversight of decisions on individual claims by a named
individual or body, which is independent of the programme team.
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iii.
Intake through RPL should be monitored annually by faculties and a summary
report should be presented by the Vice-Dean (Academic), or equivalent, of
each faculty to the University’s Quality Monitoring Committee.
iv.
Faculties may supplement these University-wide guidelines with faculty
procedures as appropriate.
v.
Departments and/or Programme Teams should define criteria relating to RPL
for individual courses.
vi.
Faculties should monitor criteria adopted for different programmes.
Offer of Admission
4.8
On the recommendation of the Course Director (or nominee), Registry issues a
formal offer of admission that specifies the terms and conditions governing entry to
and study on the instructional course, the duration of the course, the fees to be paid
and the award to which successful completion will lead.
4.9
This statement of University Procedures and Guidelines for Postgraduate
Instructional Programmes is circulated with each offer letter together with further
relevant information on the Registry, the Finance Office and other student support
services.
Registration
4.10
Students must register on joining a course and then renew registration at the start of
each new academic year. Students are required to accept the terms of the
University’s offer and agree arrangements for payment with the Finance Office before
they are registered for postgraduate study. Continued registration will depend on
satisfactory progress, which will be formally reviewed at regular intervals.
5
Mode and Duration of Study
5.1
Postgraduate instructional courses may be offered on a full-time, part-time or open
learning basis, or a mix of these. Some courses are offered off-campus, including incompany/in-service arrangements and outreach teaching. Individual course lengths
will vary depending on the programme offered and the mode of study, with any
requirements for maximum or minimum duration specified in General or Course
Regulations.
6
General Responsibilities of the Course Director
6.1
The Course Director must take all reasonable steps to ensure that:
i.
students are aware both of the general Health and Safety Regulations in
operation, and of those which are particularly relevant to them;
ii.
students have access to necessary facilities and resources;
iii.
appropriate equipment relevant to the course is available when required;
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6.2
iv.
students are aware of all relevant academic services available to them and
particularly the Library, Learning Services and the Centre for Academic
Practice and Learning Enhancement;
v.
students are made aware of their own responsibilities in the learning process
(see paragraph 7.1);
vi.
all students have access to these Procedures and Guidelines for
Postgraduate Instructional Programmes, and any supplementary
departmental and faculty information.
The Course Director is also responsible for ensuring that new students receive
appropriate information on procedures, services and personnel relevant to their
introduction to the University and their continued studies. The following information is
normally provided:
i.
details of the course to be studied, including the course regulations,
curriculum, reading lists, etc;
ii.
the distinction between requirements for an MSc and a Postgraduate
Diploma;
iii.
any dissertation or project requirements;
iv.
the name of the course director/organiser and others who teach on the
course;
v.
the teaching and assessment methods to be used;
vi.
the importance of academic integrity and the consequences of academic
dishonesty;
vii
any additional information the students may require, such as:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Computer Classes
Laboratory Facilities
Careers Service
Student Advisory and Counselling Service
University Equal Opportunities Policy
University Racial Equality Policy
University Policy on Dignity and Respect (Harassment and Bullying)
English Language Teaching Division.
Students can normally expect to be informed about any committees that individual
departments or courses have established to discuss postgraduate business. These
committees may have student representatives as members where appropriate.
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6.3
For all students on postgraduate courses there is a named individual other than their
Supervisor or the Course Director whom they may approach in confidence for advice.
This individual may be an Academic Counsellor, Postgraduate Convenor/Tutor, Head
of Department or other member of staff and in this role he/she will provide advice
independently rather than as a member of the Course Team.
6.4
The Academic Counsellor arranges to meet students on a regular basis to discuss
progress with the course and any issues the student may wish to raise. The
Counsellor can refer students to other specialist services within the University if
required. Where a Postgraduate Convenor/Tutor has been nominated as an
additional point of contact on any postgraduate matters they fulfil the same functions.
6.5
Particular care needs to be taken with overseas students who may initially require
more assistance than others.
7
General Responsibilities of the Student
7.1
The responsibilities of the student are:
i.
to know and observe the Health and Safety Regulations;
ii.
to know and observe the University’s Equality and Diversity Policies
iii.
to be in regular attendance in the department or other assigned place of work
or study;
iv.
to take the initiative in raising any problems or difficulties, whether academic,
financial or personal, with the Course Director, or a member of staff teaching
on the course, or the student’s Counsellor, or through any other of the
University’s counselling arrangements;
v.
to perform satisfactorily and to hand in work on time;
vi.
to make themselves familiar with relevant information on regulations,
procedures, services and personnel which has been provided by the
department and other relevant Academic Services;
vii.
to ensure that the University is notified of any absence longer than 7 days by
informing the Course Director and providing a medical certificate (where
appropriate) to Registry.
7.2
Any further requirements are specified in the Course Handbook and/or course
literature.
8
Supervised Work
Responsibilities of the Supervisor
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8.1
8.2
It is normal practice to appoint a Supervisor for the dissertation, or project, or report
where this activity is required in addition to the instructional part of the course. The
Supervisor’s responsibilities include:
i.
to advise on and approve an activity outline;
ii.
to advise on the structure of the dissertation/project/report and the feasibility
of the methodology to be used;
iii.
to comment on draft chapters submitted by the student;
iv.
to be accessible during the course of the activity;
v.
to advise on the final form of the dissertation/project/report which may then
be bound and submitted to the department: this notwithstanding it is the
student’s responsibility to decide after consultation with the Supervisor when
the standard of the dissertation or thesis is sufficient to submit for
assessment. The Supervisor’s approval of the final form of the submission
should not be taken as an indication of the outcome of the assessment and
may not form the basis of an appeal.
Any further requirements are specified in the Course Handbook and or course
literature.
Absence of the Supervisor
8.3
If the Supervisor is to be absent from the University for a period of two weeks or
longer, the Course Director/Head of Department normally makes alternative
supervisory arrangements.
Responsibilities of the Supervised Student
8.4
The responsibilities of the student are:
i.
to maintain progress in accordance with the agreed schedule of work,
including completion of any written work;
ii.
to maintain regular contact with the Supervisor;
iii.
to approach the Supervisor if any problems or difficulties are encountered;
iv.
to contact his/her Counsellor or departmental Postgraduate Convenor/Tutor
or other named individual if there is a failure to establish a satisfactory
working relationship with the Supervisor;
v.
to decide when the standard of the dissertation/project/report is sufficient to
submit for assessment: the supervisor’s advice on the final form of
submission should not be taken as an indication of the outcome of the
assessment and may not form the basis of an appeal.
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9
Assessment
Methods of Assessment
9.1
The assessment methods in use are performance in coursework, written
examinations, oral examinations and a dissertation, or project, or report. Students
should be informed at the commencement of the course which methods of
assessment are to be employed and the balance between these when the final
assessment is calculated. Some courses may use only one method of assessment.
9.2
For group projects, the students should be told how these will be assessed and what
percentage of the project mark will contribute towards the overall assessment.
Overall Assessment
9.3
During and at the end of the period of instruction students may be required to sit
examinations or to submit work that will contribute to their overall course assessment.
In general terms, students who fail to satisfy the Board of Examiners fully may be:
i.
permitted the opportunity to resit a particular examination within a specified
length of time, as detailed in the relevant course regulations;
ii.
permitted to resubmit work for assessment within a specified length of time,
as detailed in the relevant course regulations;
iii.
recommended for an alternative award (for example, transfer from MSc to
Diploma);
iv.
required to meet other conditions, specified by the Board of Examiners;
v.
required to withdraw from the course.
Students should be informed at the outset of their studies, which of these options
apply to their particular course.
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Board of Examiners
9.4
An examining body of not less than four persons is appointed on behalf of Senate by
the Faculty Board of Study for each course leading to the award of a University
postgraduate instructional qualification. This normally includes academic staff
responsible for the conduct of the course and an External Examiner (see Regulations
19.1.15 in part 3 of the University Calendar). A membership list for each
Postgraduate Instructional Board of Examiners is provided annually to the Quality
Monitoring Committee for approval on behalf of Senate.
9.5
Faculties endeavour to ensure that consistent practices are adopted within the
Faculty regarding the operation of Boards of Examiners for postgraduate instructional
courses. To facilitate this, faculties provide members of Postgraduate Instructional
Boards of Examiners with written details of operational aspects, such as:
9.6
i.
documentation to be provided to External Examiners (such as the University
Procedures and Guidelines for External Examiners of Instructional Courses
(see http://www.strath.ac.uk/staff/policies/), course details, examination papers
for some/all years, sample assignments, student scripts for some/ all years
etc) and an indication of whether this is supplied before or at the meeting;
ii.
documentation to be provided to all members of the Board and an indication
of whether this is supplied before or at the meeting;
iii.
information on any standard procedures (e.g. for dealing with medical
evidence or other personal information, for recording decisions etc) to be
followed by the Board before, during and subsequent to it convening;
iv.
advice to the Board as to the role and importance of the External Examiners’
contribution and guidance as to how their comments or concerns should be
taken into account;
v.
a clear statement of any discretionary powers and accompanying procedures
that may be used by the Board and/or the Convenor on behalf of the Board;
vi.
a clear statement of any delegated powers accorded to the Convenor to act
on behalf of the Board.
Awards recommended by Boards of Examiners are ratified by the appropriate Board
of Study on behalf of Senate.
Academic Dishonesty
9.7
In June 2009 Senate approved revised University Procedures and Guidelines for
Dealing with Instances of Possible Academic Dishonesty by Students (see
paragraphs 3.16 and 3.17). In all instances staff should endeavour to ensure that
appropriate communication has taken place with the student regarding allegations
and possible subsequent actions and outcomes. The student must be afforded
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appropriate opportunity to discuss the matter and intimate any mitigating
circumstances.
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10
Monitoring Progress
Routine Monitoring
10.1
It is the responsibility of the members of staff who organise and teach on the course
to monitor the progress of the students concerned. This monitoring may take a
variety of forms, e.g.
i.
regular seminars to discuss topics relevant to the course;
ii.
assessment of coursework on a regular basis.
Institutional Monitoring
10.2
The Quality Monitoring Committee conducts an annual survey of postgraduate
instructional student progress for full-time students. This survey provides information
on the number of students:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
vi.
11
registered for each course;
awarded a masters degree by instruction;
awarded a diploma;
transferred to a research degree;
‘writing-up’;
who failed to complete.
Feedback Mechanisms
Student/Staff Committees
11.1
Student/staff committees are established for courses and/or departments. Some
deal with all postgraduate matters (i.e. instructional courses and research students)
in a department. Others relate to courses that are based in more than one
department. Students will be informed of the committees relevant to them that are in
operation and student representation will be sought.
11.2
Student/staff committees provide both a forum for discussion about the course and a
mechanism for the resolution of problems connected with the course(s), the
departments(s), and the facilities available to students, etc. They also provide
valuable feedback to the department(s) and courses concerned.
Student Evaluation Forms
11.3
Students are encouraged to provide feedback at any stage and are normally asked to
complete an evaluation form at the end of the course. Again the information obtained
is useful to the department, particularly in deciding what changes (if any) are
required.
Other Mechanisms
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11.4
Students can provide feedback on the course at any time directly to the Course
Director or via their Counsellor or the Postgraduate Convenor/Tutor or other
individual named in the Course Handbook or other Departmental literature, or to the
University by emailing telluswhatyouthink@strath.ac.uk.
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Academic Appeals
12.1
The letter to a student informing him/her of a decision to transfer or terminate his/her
registration or not to award a degree includes notification of the right to appeal in
writing to the Faculty Board of Study on any of the grounds set down in Regulation
19.1.29 (see Part 3 of the University Calendar). The letter also gives notice of the
date by which the student must lodge any appeal with the Faculty Officer. Students
may obtain further information on the appeals process from the Faculty Officer where
necessary.
12.2
The Faculty sets up a Panel of unbiased academic staff with a Senior Academic
Officer of the Faculty as Convenor. The Faculty Appeals Panel decides the outcome
of the Faculty Appeal, operating in accord with the principles of natural justice and
the maintenance of academic standards.
12.3
In the event that the Faculty does not uphold a student’s appeal, the student is
informed of this and of his/her further right of appeal to Senate. A student must
submit his/her Senate Appeal to the Secretary to the Senate Appeals Committee,
Governance, Management and Policy Team within six weeks of the outcome of the
preceding Faculty Appeal being notified to the student. Students may obtain further
information on the appeals process from the Secretary to the Senate Appeals
Committee where necessary.
12.4
The Senate sets up a Committee of unbiased Senate members with a Senior
Academic Officer of the University as Convenor. The Senate Appeals Committee
makes a final decision on the Senate Appeal, operating in accord with the principles
of natural justice and the maintenance of academic standards.
12.5
Students may obtain assistance in preparing appeals from the Student Advisory and
Counselling Service or the University of Strathclyde Students’ Association.
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Student Complaints other than Academic Appeals
13.1
Students are encouraged to raise any complaints about their studies or about
university services directly with those concerned in the first instance. University staff
will consider such complaints fairly and do their best to resolve any difficulties.
However, if a student is dissatisfied with the response to an informal
complaint/enquiry/request for assistance, then a formal written complaint may be
made to the Course Director/Head of the relevant Academic Department or the Head
of the Support Service concerned. If the student remains dissatisfied with the
response to a first formal complaint, then he/she can pursue the matter further,
making a final complaint by writing to:
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i.
the Dean of the Faculty concerned (in the case of complaints about academic
matters); or
ii.
the University Secretary (in the case of complaints about services or about
discrimination or harassment).
13.2
The recipient of a formal written complaint (first or final) will appoint a reviewer to
consider the complaint in confidence and without bias. The reviewer may be the
recipient of the formal complaint themselves or his/her nominee(s). The reviewer
consults as appropriate and keeps the student informed of the progress of enquiries,
reporting the final outcome as soon as practicable.
14
Contacts List
The Adviser for Students with Disabilities, Mrs Anne Simpson: 0141 548 3402;
a.simpson@strath.ac.uk
Governance, Management and Policy Team (Postgraduate Applications and
Scholarships), Ms Shirley Kirk: 0141 548 3204; s.kirk@strath.ac.uk
English Language Teaching Division, eltd@strath.ac.uk
Finance Office (Student
g.miller@strath.ac.uk
Payments),
Mr
George
Miller:
0141
548
2612;
Student Affairs, Mr John Martin: 0141 548 4931; j.martin@strath.ac.uk
International Student Adviser, Mr Jim Wilson; 0141 548 3674; j.wilson@strath.ac.uk
Student Advisory & Counselling Service, Student Adviser, Ms Sarah Lockwood: 0141
548 3510 s.lockwood@strath.ac.uk
RMK
October 2009
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