2014/15 Student Guide
Engineering and Environment
Architecture and
Built Environment
Computer Science and
Digital Technologies
Geography
Mathmatics and
Information Sciences
Mechanical and
Construction Engineering
Physics and Electrical
Engineering
2013/14 Student Guide
Engineering and Environment
Contents
Welcome from the Dean...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 2
1. Introduction............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
1.1 This Handbook........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................3
1.2 Engineering and Environment: A Brief Overview..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................3
1.3 The Student Support Team.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................4
1.4 Your Timetable.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................5
1.5 Academic Calendar..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................5
1.6 University and Engineering and Environment Policies and Procedures.............................................................................................................................................................................7
1.7 Acceptable Behaviour in Class......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................9
2. Programme Information............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 10
2.1 How Does your Programme Work?.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................10
2.2 Programme Awards and Regulations....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................10
3. Learning, Teaching and Assessment................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 12
3.1 Learning and Teaching....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................12
3.2 Assessment.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................12
3.3 Marking and Feedback....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................14
3.4 Referrals/Re-sits and Deferrals....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................14
3.5 Personal Extenuating Circumstances (PECs).....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................15
3.6 Attendance.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................16
3.7 Blackboard..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................16
4. Programme Management......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
4.1 Staffing and Management............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................18
4.2 Communication..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................18
4.3 Student Feedback and Representation................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................20
5. University Support Services.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
5.1 Academic Services.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................21
5.2 Northumbria Students’ Union....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................23
5.3 Finance and Planning......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................24
5.4 English for Special Academic Purposes (ESAP)................................................................................................................................................................................................................................25
Appendix A:
Glossary of Common Terms and Phrases....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................26
Appendix B:
Map of the City Campus........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................27
Appendix C:
Late Submission Process........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................28
Appendix D:
Student Charter...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................30
2013/14 Student Guide
2
Engineering and Environment
Welcome from the Dean
Welcome to Northumbria University.
Our aim is to provide you with a highquality education, great experience
and excellent career opportunities. Our
courses enable you to follow your subject
interests and provide a clear professional
emphasis. Our aspiration is that when you
graduate you can establish a successful and
rewarding career of your choice wherever
you wish to around the world. We look
forward to helping you achieve your goals
through your time with us.
There is so much interesting and innovative work taking place in Engineering and Environment
with great relevance to society and the economy. We equip students with the skills, critical
thinking and knowledge needed to change the world. We aim for excellence in research, teaching
and enterprise. We aspire to be amongst the best in all that we do.
For those who want to better understand the modern world, we have high quality courses that
provide an advantage in the employment market. Our philosophy is to always seek maximum
accreditation by professional bodies. Our commitment to employer liaison boards ensures our
programmes are relevant and informed by what industry needs today and not yesterday. Our
investment ensures facilities are top flight. Our students live life to the full and earn respected
degrees to gain a bright future. We are proud of what they achieve.
We invest in new equipment every year to ensure a world-class environment for teaching and
research. Our research seeks to be relevant, to address the grand challenges of this century
– sustainable and renewable energy and environments, the security and safety of individuals
and organisations, and the transmission and integrity of data, to name just a few of our areas of
expertise.
We welcome people from universities and industry who wish to work with us for mutual
benefit. We welcome students from across the UK and around the world who wish to join us for
undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, PhDs or Professional Doctorates.
Please do make the most of your time at Northumbria, and alongside your academic studies
take the opportunity to get involved in the social life of the University via the many clubs and
events organised by the Students’ Union, Team Northumbria and others. Enjoy your time with us
at Northumbria University and on behalf of all our staff I would like to wish you success in your
studies and future careers.
Glen McHale
BSc (H), PhD, FInstP, FHEA, SMIEEE
Executive Dean and Professor of Applied & Materials Physics
2013/14 Student Guide
3
Engineering and Environment
1. Introduction
1.1 This Handbook
This student handbook is designed to provide you with a guide to the
University and Engineering and Environment where your programme
sits. There is a lot to become familiar with in your first weeks at University.
The staff will try to give you all the information you need to help you
settle in and make the most of the opportunities available to you.
This handbook will help you in that process either by providing the
information that you need or by directing you to more in-depth sources
of information, in particular the University’s website. A key page is the
‘Current Student Information’ page which can be reached by clicking on
‘Students’ on the University home page at www.northumbria.ac.uk.
Another key page is your MyNorthumbria webpage which is reached by
clicking on ‘MyNorthumbria’ on the University Home Page.
Additional information specific to your programme can be found in your
programme handbook. The University also produces a guide for new
students which contains details regarding all services the University
provides to support you during your studies. It can be accessed at
northumbria.ac.uk/browse/newstud/?view=Standard
When summary accounts of regulations and procedures are provided
in this handbook, students must be aware that these are not the
regulations, and definitive versions are to be found elsewhere. This
handbook will show you where these versions are to be found on the
University website.
A glossary of common terms and phrases can be found in Appendix A of
this handbook.
1.2 Engineering and Environment:
A Brief Overview
With approximately 370 academic and support staff (289 Academic,
52 Management and Administration and 26 Technical) and over 6600
students, with more than 850 studying at postgraduate level and over 220
registered as active PhD students, Engineering and Environment draws
together a wide range of subjects under six departments; Architecture
and Built Environment, Computer Science and Digital Technologies,
Geography, Mathematics and Information Sciences, Mechanical and
Construction Engineering, and Physics and Electrical Engineering.
We are fascinated by the smallest particle to the largest space imaginable:
the Universe and everything in between. Technology has always changed
the world, but never more so than in the last decade. We aim to ensure
that you develop the knowledge and practical skills required to drive
that change in the future and to make you stand out in the modern
employment market.
We have a well-justified international reputation, with nearly a quarter
of its student body originating overseas and representing more than
80 different countries. Approximately 800 students are enrolled on
programmes with partner colleges and universities in several countries
including Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea. Articulation agreements
with Universities in China are providing strong links and progression
pathways into Northumbria programmes.
We are also an excellent example of how the research, teaching and
enterprise activities of the staff and the contributions of a wide range
of employers and professional bodies are brought together to provide
students with a great experience, but also to benefit employers and the
wider community.
An important part of the philosophy in the University is that research
and teaching are integrated, with research directly informing teaching.
Eighty-five per cent of Engineering and Environment’s research
submitted in the General Engineering category of the 2008 RAE
(Research Assessment Exercise) was rated as being of an ‘internationally
recognised standard’, with 50% of this ‘internationally excellent’ or
above. Within the Architecture and Built Environment submission, 100%
was rated as ‘nationally significant’; of which 90% was recognised as
‘internationally recognised’, ‘internationally significant’, or ‘world-leading’.
We enjoy many excellent, mutually beneficial relationships with local
and national organisations and the region’s policy makers and shapers.
It regularly provides consultation to a variety of organisations and has
successful partnerships with organisations such as the BIM Academy,
architectural consultancies and Virtual NewcastleGateshead. Short
courses, professional accreditation, employer feedback meetings and
conferences all feed back into the knowledge and experience of the
academic staff, which is then used to advise research students.
We are very proud of our outstanding facilities for learning, teaching and
research and made possible through recent major investment. If you
enjoy learning in a hands-on practical way, you will love our specialist
laboratories which include architecture studios and workshops, built
environment visualisation centre, media and games studios, computer
security and networks laboratories, robotics laboratory, advanced
materials and rapid prototyping workshops, built environment
laboratories, environmental analysis laboratories, geographical
information systems laboratory and usability of spatial environments
laboratory. The laboratories are equipped with industry-standard
equipment and our programme teams are always working to research
and secure the latest hardware and software available to ensure that you
develop the skills you need. In addition, you will have access to 24/7,
award-winning IT and library facilities during term-time.
The majority of our programmes carry the quality marks of professional
body accreditation meeting the underpinning knowledge and
understanding requirements for registration as set out by a professional
body. This includes accreditation from Institution of Mechanical
Engineering (IMechE), Institution of Engineering and Technology
(IET), British Computer Society (BCS), Chartered Institute of Library
and Information Professionals (CILIP), Skills for Justice and the Society
of Archivists, Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), Institute
of Physics (IOP), Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineering
(CIBSE), Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), Chartered
Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH), Institute of Environmental
Management and Assessment (IEMA), Chartered Institute of Ecology and
Environmental Management (CIEEM) and Chartered Institute of Building
(CIOB).
The National Student Survey resulted in high scores for subjects in
Engineering and Environment indicating a high degree of student
satisfaction and reinforcing the quality and University systems. We
work closely with our students to create a supportive yet academically
challenging environment and we are extremely proud of the support we
offer from enrolment to graduation, no matter which of our programmes
you are studying on.
2013/14 Student Guide
4
Engineering and Environment
1.3 The Student Support Team
1.4 Your Timetable
The Student Support Team are available to assist all students requiring
information and/or advice. The team are located in B201 Ellison Building.
You can access your timetable via the University website using the
guidelines provided below. Any problems should be addressed to your
Programme Administrator. You are advised to check your timetable
regularly to keep up-to-date with any changes to class times, days and
rooms. Additionally, any individual module changes may be announced
on the module Blackboard site. You can also obtain module timetables
from module tutors; they will provide you with a module specific
timetable for each of your modules in week 1.
We are open:
Monday – Thursday 8.30 – 17.00 hours
Friday 8.30 – 16.30 hours
or you can contact us at:
Email: ee.studentsupport@northumbria.ac.uk
Tel: 0191 227 4722
Your Semester Two timetable is accessible in the same way but is usually
not available until the end of Semester One.
The Student Support Team in liaison with your Programme
Administrators provide:
For students studying at a distance, your programme handbook will
contain details of your specific programme schedules.
• Generic advice and information on a range of topics including:
Assessment Regulations for Northumbria Awards (ARNA), Handbook
of Student Regulations, and University policies and procedures such
as Personal Extenuating Circumstances (PECs), appeals, complaints,
absence from taught sessions, and student representation.
1.4.1 Timetabling
• Acts as an interface with the University’s Student Services, making
referrals as appropriate.
Northumbria University teaching timetables will provide you with your
scheduled activities including times, locations, teaching staff and the
weeks in which activities take place. Whichever method you choose to
view your timetable you’ll always be able to view a timetable that can be
accessed from wherever and whenever you like.
Engineering & Environment Student Support
Organisation
Further information on how you can access your timetable is available
via the Timetabling area on the University web site: northumbria.ac.uk/
student-hub/
Once you have enrolled on your programme you will be given access to
the Engineering and Environment Student Support Organisation located
in Blackboard (see section 3.7 of this handbook), which provides useful
information to assist you with your studies, including:
If you have any queries with regards to your timetabling needs then
please contact the IT Helpline.
• Student Guide
For campus-based students, most of your teaching will take place in
either Pandon or Ellison Buildings but you may be required to go to other
parts of the University (see Appendix B). The building/room abbreviations
will be explained when you receive your timetable.
• Programme Handbooks
• Useful contacts
• Course Dates
• Forthcoming events
• University procedures – attendance monitoring, late approvals and
Personal Extenuating Circumstances
• IT Facilities
1.4.2 Room Locations
1.5 Academic Calendar
The majority of our programmes operate on a two semester pattern.
Term dates for each semester and for the following academic year can
be found on the University website. Access the University home page
(northumbria.ac.uk), click on ‘Student Hub’ and from the ‘Academic
Links’ page select ‘Academic Calendars’. Students must note these dates
and ensure their availability to fulfil all academic requirements for their
programme of study.
2013/14 Student Guide
5
Engineering and Environment
How to read timetable information
Please note that the information contained below is based upon university web timetables.
Timetable components may vary in their postion on timetables in printed form.
Calendar and Week numbers 2014/15
28-Jul-14
04-Aug-14
11-Aug-14
18-Aug-14
25-Aug-14
01-Sep-14
08-Sep-14
15-Sep-14
22-Sep-14
29-Sep-14
06-Oct-14
13-Oct-14
20-Oct-14
27-Oct-14
03-Nov-14
10-Nov-14
17-Nov-14
24-Nov-14
01-Dec-14
08-Dec-14
15-Dec-14
22-Dec-14
29-Dec-14
05-Jan-15
12-Jan-15
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
02-Feb-15
09-Feb-15
16-Feb-15
23-Feb-15
02-Mar-15
09-Mar-15
16-Mar-15
23-Mar-15
30-Mar-15
06-Apr-15
13-Apr-15
20-Apr-15
27-Apr-15
04-May-15
11-May-15
18-May-15
25-May-15
01-Jun-15
08-Jun-15
15-Jun-15
22-Jun-15
29-Jun-15
06-Jul-15
13-Jul-15
Week
Number
1
26-Jan-15
Date
21-Jul-14
Week
Number
19-Jan-15
Date
Academic Year
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
Summer, Winter and Spring Breaks
Welcome Week
Semester Teaching Weeks
Assessment/Exam Weeks
2013/14 Student Guide
6
Engineering and Environment
1.6 University and Engineering and
Environment Policies and Procedures
1.6.1 Academic Misconduct
A very serious view is taken of any form of unfair advantage sought and
used by students to gain higher marks than might otherwise have been
awarded. Exam Boards have the power to fail candidates for all or part
of an assessment, or fail the whole programme, in which an academic
irregularity has occurred. The following summarises the position in the
University Assessment Regulations for Northumbria Awards (ARNA)
regarding what constitutes ‘unfair advantage’ but does NOT replace these
regulations. You must familiarise yourselves with the full position in the
University Regulations (See Section 1.6.2 of this handbook). A Student
Guide to avoiding Academic misconduct can be found at: northumbria.
ac.uk/sd/central/ar/qualitysupport /assess/assproc/assdocstud
There is also guidance available from the Students’ Union at mynsu.
northumbria.ac.uk/adviceandrepresentation/ ineedadvice/
Plagiarism
Plagiarism is using somebody else’s words or ideas without
acknowledging them or, put another way, presenting someone else’s
words or ideas as your own. It is a serious academic offence and will
lead to work being disregarded or disciplinary action being taken. One
important way of avoiding accusations of plagiarism is to make correct
references to your original sources (see section 3.2.3 of this handbook).It
is important that you fully understand the issue of plagiarism. If you are in
any doubt, please ask a member of your programme team.
Examples of plagiarism include:
• The inclusion in a student’s work of more than a single phrase from
another person’s work without the use of quotation marks and
acknowledgement of sources.
• The summarising of another person’s work by simply changing a few
words or altering the order of presentation, without acknowledgement.
• The substantial and unauthorised use of the ideas of another person
without acknowledgement of the source.
• Copying the work of another student, with or without that student’s
knowledge or agreement.
Collusion
This exists where a student:
• Submits as entirely his/her own, with intention to gain unfair
advantage, work done in collaboration with another person.
• Collaborates with another student in the completion of work which is
intended to be submitted as the other student’s own unaided work.
• Knowingly permits another student to copy all or part of his/her own
work and to submit it as that student’s own unaided work.
Falsifying Data
• This is the presentation of data in reports, assignments, dissertations,
etc. based on experimental work falsely purported to have been carried
out by the student, or obtained by unfair means.
Dishonest Practice
• The use of any other dishonest practice not so far identified. (In other
words, anything not mentioned above which the University deems to
have been obtained by unfair means!)
1.6.2 Assessment Regulations for Northumbria Awards
(ARNA)
All matters relating to progression and awards are contained within
ARNA and you should familiarise yourself with these regulations. The
regulations can be accessed at: northumbria.ac.uk/sd/central/ar/
qualitysupport/assess/assproc/assdocstud/
1.6.3 Data Protection and Confidentiality
Everyone has the right to privacy and confidentiality. Confidentiality is
a concept enshrined both in ethical and legislative frameworks within
society and forms the basis of good practice.
When you enrol online you agree to the sharing of information in
respect of academic performance. Details of how to restrict the public
display of your data are found in section 16 of the Handbook of Student
Regulations (see section 1.6.9 of this handbook).
Please note that due to data protection legislation, we do not discuss
your progress with any third party.
In terms of information which is not strictly to do with academic
performance, confidentiality and the appropriate disclosure of sensitive
personal data is sometimes very hard to manage. When dealing with
difficult student issues, situations may arise when we need to discuss
information with another person.
As a general principle, if you refuse or do not give consent, information
about your personal circumstances cannot be shared. However, there
may be exceptional circumstances where there is a need to act without
your permission, where there is a legal requirement to disclose the
information such as where there is immediate risk to yourself or others.
In such circumstances it is theoretically possible that failure to disclose
could be regarded as a breach of the general duty of care, for example if
it resulted in harm or injury.
The Counselling Service has a statement on confidentiality, which
you can view at: northumbria.ac.uk/sd/central/stud_serv/couns
ellingsupport/CMHSagreement/?view=Standard
2013/14 Student Guide
7
Engineering and Environment
1.6.4 Environmental Policy
The University recognises the key role it has to play in caring for the
environment and realises that environmental risks should be fully
managed, minimised or removed by complying with environmental
legislation and raising awareness of environmental sustainability to
all connected to the University. Information about the University’s
environmental policy can be found at northumbria.ac.uk/sd/central/
campus/enviro/? view=Standard
Engineering and Environment has achieved a ‘Silver’ standard in the
National Union of Students Green Impact environmental benchmarking
scheme. Bronze and Silver awards measure good practice in 36
categories covering travel, waste, energy and recycling. The Faculty also
leads on the celebration of Climate Week (next year 2-8th March 2015).
Last year at our Climate Week Fair we had demonstrations of electric
cars and a ’bike day’ with a pedal powered smoothie maker courtesy of
Edinburgh Bike Coop. We also ran a recycle y’r books stall which raised
over £100 for Water Aid. Student participation in our environmental
activities is very important; if you would like to be involved contact
John Holmes, the Faculty Director of Sustainability at john.holmes@
northumbria.ac.uk.
If you have any queries then, in the first instance, refer to the Faculty’s
Ethics and Governance web page: northumbria.ac.uk/sd/academic/
ee/about/studentsupport/ethics1/ which contains links to relevant
guidance; if you are still unsure about how to proceed then approach
your supervisor, the module tutor or Departmental Research Ethics
Representative.
1.6.6 Equality and Diversity
Engineering and Environment strongly supports the University policy
on Equality and Diversity (https://intranet.northumbria.ac.uk/
facultiesandservices/hri/guidance/azpolicy/edpolicy/) and strives
for good practice with regards to its staff, students and the wider
community we engage with. We take equality and discrimination issues
seriously. Should you have any concerns or questions, please refer to
the policy and/or contact a relevant member of academic staff, Student
Support or the Students’ Union.
1.6.7 First Aid
The University provides a network of First Aiders covering all sites. In the
event of sudden illness or injury the First Aiders should be the first point
of contact.
The most important aspect of environmental sustainability is in the
curriculum and you will find that many modules focus on sustainability
issues.
For First Aid Assistance call Security on 0191 227 3999.
1.6.5 Ethics in Research
Staff acting as Fire Marshalls have been nominated for all areas. All
students and staff will be guided to evacuate the building by the nearest
exit and gather at the designated safety point as soon as the fire alarm
is raised. For an extreme emergency call Security on 0191 227 3200. All
students will be contacted early in Semester One by Student Support
to enquire if they have any permanent or temporary mobility problems.
Where appropriate a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan will be created
to ensure that the students concerned are aware of the appropriate fire
exit procedures from each of the teaching rooms timetabled.
Most students undertake some research as part of their programme
of study, typically for a dissertation or project. All research must be
conducted in accordance with the University’s Ethics and Governance
Handbook (see northumbria.ac.uk/static/5007/research/
reghandbook.pdf) and Faculty Research Ethics Procedures (see
northumbria.ac.uk/sd/academic/ee/about/studentsupport/
ethics1/), the underpinning principle of which is to ensure that no harm
results, to the researcher, the researched or the environment, during the
course of the research.
Students should register their research using the Faculty Research Ethics
Registration and Approval Form (see Appendix B of Faculty Research
Ethics Procedure). The University operates a risk based approach to
research, grading all projects green, amber or red risk, using an Ethical
Scrutiny and Risk Assessment Tool (see www.northumbria.ac.uk/
static/5007/respdf/riskassesmenttool.pdf). If a project is green
risk, for example being based only on secondary literature or data, or
lab based experiments conducted under COSHH regulations, it can be
approved by the project supervisor. However, most research projects
require some primary research to be conducted, typically involving
human participants, in which case the research would automatically
be regarded as amber risk. Such projects must be approved by one
independent reviewer, such as the Module Tutor or Departmental
Research Ethics Representative, before they can commence. Approval
will be conditional on the researcher obtaining the informed consent
of all participants using a standard form (see Appendix C of Faculty
Research Ethics Procedures). Red risk projects, typically those involving
vulnerable people e.g children, sensitive personal data or risk to
participants or the researcher, must be submitted to the Faculty Research
Ethics Committee for consideration and approval by two independent
reviewers, before the research can commence.
1.6.8 Fire and Evacuation Procedures
1.6.9 Handbook of Student Regulations
The Handbook of Student Regulations includes information such as:
• Student Disciplinary Rules and Procedures
• Principles and Procedures relating to Student Appeals against
Examination/Assessment decisions
• Procedures for requiring a student to withdraw from the University for
unsatisfactory academic progress and the procedures for a student to
appeal against them
• Student Complaints Procedure
A copy of this is available online at northumbria.ac.uk/vc/leservteam/
stud_reg_handbk/
2013/14 Student Guide
8
Engineering and Environment
1.6.10 Health and Safety
1.7 Acceptable Behaviour in Classes
The University Health and Safety Policy and Procedures document may
be obtained from the University Health and Safety Adviser or the website:
northumbria.ac.uk/sd/central/campus/hse/healthandsafety/
hs_pol/?view=Standard
The University is committed to creating an environment conducive to
learning that will benefit all students. Feedback received from students
has suggested the following points of good practice and courtesy to
tutors and fellow learners:
Information for students about staying healthy and safe can be found on
the student Services website at northumbria.ac.uk/sd/central/stud_
serv/sws/swskhks/?view=Standard and in the guide Keeping Healthy,
Keeping Safe that can be accessed from this site.
Be quiet
There may be specific safety procedures that you are required to follow
because of the nature of the work you are undertaking or the facilities
you are using during your programme. Programme staff will introduce
you to these procedures either as part of your programme induction or
during relevant classes.
• Noise levels, especially in larger lecture theatres, quickly accumulate to
unacceptable levels.
1.6.11 Student Charter
The Northumbria student charter sets out expectations for all students
during their time at Northumbria in order to ensure that they have the
best possible learning experience. It is a partnership document that sets
out what we expect of you as a student and in turn, what you can expect
from the University and Students Union. The full charter can be found in
Appendix D of this handbook.
1.6.12 Use of Student Work
In accordance with the Handbook of Student Regulations (sections
12.3), please note that Engineering and Environment uses student work
for non-commercial purposes including academic teaching and research.
If you do not wish your work to be used in this way, please advise your
Programme Leader accordingly.
• Chatting disturbs the speaker (staff or student) and disrupts the
concentration of others.
Switch off mobile phones
• Making or receiving calls or using the camera facility on your mobile are
always unacceptable.
• Texting in class can annoy other learners.
Keep to time
• Coming into lectures late often disrupts the whole class, if you are late
please enter the room with the minimum of disruption.
• The same rule applies if you need to leave early, do so with the
minimum of disruption and as a courtesy let your tutor know that you
must leave early.
Come prepared and ready to work
• This is particularly so in the case of seminars and group work where
other learners depend upon your input.
Dispose of your litter properly
• For the benefit of all users, please ensure that you leave all learning
spaces tidy and litter free.
Please note:
• If staff consider your behaviour to be unacceptable you may be asked
to leave.
• If you have concerns about the application of these guidelines, please
talk to the tutor or your course rep or the Students’ Union Advice and
Representation Centre.
• There may be other guidance, related to health, safety and professional
issues in connection with laboratory, studio and clinical spaces, which
should be taken account of in relation to acceptable behaviour. Please
check your Programme
2013/14 Student Guide
9
Engineering and Environment
2. Programme Information
2.1 How Does your Programme Work?
Your programme is based on the accumulation of credits for successfully
completing modules. To be awarded an undergraduate honours degree
students need to accumulate 360 credits at the appropriate levels or 480
credits for an integrated Masters. At postgraduate level students need to
accumulate 180 credits at the appropriate level to be awarded a Masters
Degree.
Honours degrees and Integrated Masters are classified according to
the following broad parameters of relevant marks:
First class honours
Average mark of 70% or above
Second class honours, upper division
Average mark of at least 60% but less than 70%
Each module is worth an identified number of credits. This ‘credit value’
is based on the notional number of hours of student effort required to
successfully complete the module. One credit is usually equivalent to a
notional 10 hours of student effort. Therefore, a 10 credit module would
require 100 hours of effort, a 20 credit module 200 hours, etc.
Second class honours, lower division
Average mark of at least 50% but less than 60%
As part of your effort you will spend a significant amount of time
undertaking independent or direct study. This could involve for example:
N.B. The average is the best of either a weighted average
of levels 5 and 6, or level 6 only
Third class honours
Average mark of at least 40% but less than 50%
(not available for Integrated Masters)
• Recommended reading
• Independent research
• Preparing for seminars
• Writing assignments
• Revising for examinations
Details of your programme structure and the modules available on your
programme can be found in your programme handbook.
2.2 Programme Awards and Regulations
2.2.1 Assessment Regulations for Northumbria Awards
(ARNA)
All matters relating to progression and awards are contained within
ARNA and you should familiarise yourself with these regulations. If you
are unsure about any of the details in these regulations please do not
hesitate to contact your Programme Leader or Student Support Staff.
The information below summarises the main points from ARNA but you
should refer to the most up to date regulations for definitive information.
northumbria.ac.uk/sd/central/ar/qualitysupport/assess/assproc/
assdocstud/
2.2.2 Honours degree
The standard undergraduate honours degree programme constitutes 360
credit points (120 each at levels 4, 5 and 6). Progression between these
levels occurs at the end of every academic year (for full time students) or
Stage (for part time students) and is subject to student performance.
2.2.3 Masters degree
The postgraduate programme is split into two stages. The first stage is
the taught stage and consists of 120 credits over two semesters. The
second stage is the project stage and consists of one 60 credit project
over one semester. The credit requirement for the Masters degree is 180
credits. Progression to project is subject to academic performance.
Masters degrees are classified according to the following broad
parameters of relevant marks:
Distinction
Average mark of 70% or above
Commendation
Average mark of at least 60% but less than 70%
For detailed information please refer to ARNA Section 5
2.2.4 Credits certificates and diplomas
If you don’t meet the requirements for a degree, the Award Board may
be able to recommend a lower level award (as specified in ARNA). At
mid-stage a repeat stage is normally offered at the discretion of the
Programme Leader.
2013/14 Student Guide
10
Engineering and Environment
2.2.5 Changing programme/withdrawal/interruption
of studies
If you wish to take time out of your studies you should discuss this first
with your Programme Leader and then register your intention with the
Student Progress Team by completing the chance of circumstances
procedure below. The timing of the interruption will influence the
credits that you have accumulated and can carry forward so it is essential
that you discuss this option.
Occasionally students want to leave their programme or University.
It is essential that you contact your Programme Leader or any other
member of staff that you feel comfortable talking to, as they will be able
to discuss your concerns with you, and offer advice on options open to
you. If however you still feel that leaving is the best decision for you,
then you need to formally withdraw, again by following the change of
circumstances procedure below.
If you do not complete the withdrawal process you may be liable for fees
and may be failed by the examination board at the end of the year.
A “failure” on a programme will look worse to potential future
Programme Leaders or employers than a “withdrawal”. International
students will be required to complete an additional form with Student
Support and Wellbeing.
If you wish to change to another programme you should first discuss
this with your Programme Leader. Please note that it is not always
possible to transfer to another Northumbria University programme or
University mid-term so it may be that you need to take the rest of the
year off (interrupt your studies) and start again the following September.
To register your interest in changing programmes please complete the
change of circumstances procedure below.
Please note that there may be financial implications due to changing or
leaving your programme and you should discuss this with the Student
Progress Team who will contact you once you have completed the
change of circumstances procedure. You can also seek advice from the
Welfare and International team in Student Support and Wellbeing.
Change of circumstances procedure
To register your intention to change course, take time out or leave the
university please inform the Student Progress Team by completing the
following steps and they will be able to assist you with the process.
• Log on to “MyNorthumbria”
• Click on “My Record”
• Click on the Change of Circumstances tab
• Select the relevant option
The Student progress team will then be in touch with you.
2013/14 Student Guide
11
Engineering and Environment
3. Learning, Teaching and Assessment
3.1 Learning and Teaching
Programme subject content is delivered via modules. The module
descriptors and module guide describe the content of the module and
its teaching, learning and assessment approaches, together with the
notional student workload divided between lectures, practical classes,
seminars, workshops, tutorials, directed and independent learning and
assessment.
Module guides are provided at the start of the module either
electronically or in hard copy. The module guides will include the aims
and learning outcomes of the module being studied. Module Tutors are
responsible for co-ordinating the module.
Lectures are supported where appropriate by seminars, laboratory
classes and workshops that allow a range of teaching and learning
approaches to be used. Seminars are used to develop understanding
and application of the knowledge delivered in lectures. As such you may
expect to undertake a range of activities within seminar sessions. Such
activities may include case study analysis, group discussions, individual or
group presentations, problemsolving and exercises related to the subject.
Workshops and laboratory classes are used, where appropriate, to
develop understanding and application of information in relation to the
module being studied. As with seminars, they involve smaller group sizes
and use a range of activities to develop the required skills.
Tutorials are used to give group and one-to-one support for assignments
and personal development planning.
Independent and directed learning is incorporated within each module.
This increases as students progress and usually culminates in a final year
project or dissertation.
A number of modules provide students with electronic resources made
available via internal networks or the internet (see section 3.7 of this
handbook).
achievement against the stated learning outcomes of each module and
to assess your level of achievement against the standards required for
the degree.
Assessment is used to:
• Facilitate and reinforce learning
• Measure and judge your performance over a part of the
programme using published criteria and against the relevant
module learning outcomes
• Provide feedback about your performance, helping you to identify
strengths and weaknesses
• Recognise and credit achievement at the point where it occurs
• Determine your suitability to progress to the next level of the
programme
• Determine the award of an appropriate qualification
3.2.1 Types of Assessment
Tutors adopt a variety of assessment strategies designed to provide you
with feedback in respect of your success in meeting the requirements of
your programme and specific module aims and outcomes. You will have
two main forms of assessment:
Formative assessment
These are methods that will help you learn, but which will not have a
recorded mark. They provide a focal point for directed and independent
learning in each semester.
Methods used may include:
• Seminar discussions
Engineering and Environment is committed to helping all our students
reach their full potential. The quality of experience that we provide for all
our students is of paramount importance. We therefore ask you to adopt
the simple points of good practise and courtesy, outlined in Section 1.7
of this handbook, in all your taught classes.
• Group work
3.2 Assessment
• Laboratory and site activities
A range of assessment methods, linked to the module learning
outcomes, are used to support, inform and motivate your practical
and intellectual development. This includes, where appropriate,
the development of personal and interpersonal skills. Examples of
assessment methods include work-based assignments for part-time
students, group assignments and presentations, the production of lab
and field reports and traditional examinations.
Criteria are provided to enable you to understand what is expected
of you and how you will be judged on your performance. Informal
feedback on progress takes place, particularly in seminars and workshops
and through non-assessed tests, essays and assignment preparation
discussions.
Assessments are moderated at both the setting and marking stage. This
takes place internally at level 4 and below, and internally and externally
at higher levels. The purpose of assessment is to reinforce learning and
to enable you, and your tutors, to demonstrate, measure and judge your
• Informal peer assessment
• Unmarked exercises for discussion
•Workshops
Summative assessment
These methods will give a mark and will include:
• provision of criteria to enable students to understand what is expected
of them and how they will be judged on their performance.
• a word or size limit. Excessive size/numbers of words will result in a
reduction of the mark. Assignments well below the word limit will often
be weak and lacking in appropriate analysis and literature.
• provision of formal feedback by the marker. You should read this as the
comments provide helpful feedback on your ideas and they may be
useful in preparing subsequent assessments.
• coursework is normally submitted and marked anonymously, so do not
put your name on your work – use only your student number.
2013/14 Student Guide
12
Engineering and Environment
3.2.2 Assessment specification and criteria
3.2.4 Handing in your assignments
For each module, you will be required to complete at least one
assessment (per 10 credit module) and, in some cases, you complete two
or more (for a 20 credit module). The exact requirements will be given
to you at the start of each module and will be outlined in the module
guide, supported by a more detailed Assessment Brief. Where generic
marking criteria are used across assignments on your programme, these
will be provided in your Programme Handbook.
The hand-in date for each of your assignments is decided by each
module tutor in conjunction with the programme team to ensure you
have a balanced schedule of assessed work. This date will be given to you
well in advance at the time the assignment is distributed.
3.2.3 Plagiarism and Referencing
The University takes academic misconduct very seriously (see sections
1.6.1 and 1.6.2 of this handbook). One of the most common forms of
academic misconduct is plagiarism which can be avoided by ensuring
your have referenced your work correctly.
Referencing your Work
You will be expected to fully reference your work – in the text and in
a bibliography. Good quality referencing provides evidence of your
independent study/research. Poor referencing makes you vulnerable to
a charge of ‘plagiarism’. The Harvard method of referring to publications
and of arranging references uses the author’s name and the date of the
publication. References are listed at the end of the text in alphabetical
order by author’s name. The general format of a journal reference is
shown below:
Smith, J. (1999) How to succeed!
Journal of Entrepreneurs, 1(2), p. 34-56
Author/s name and initials are listed first, followed by year of publication
in brackets. Then there is the title of article and the journal where the
article appears, which is underlined or in italics. Finally, state the volume
and issue number (in brackets) along with the pages where the article
can be located.
For further information, including advice on how to cite information
from the web, access the following website: library.northumbria.ac.uk/
skillsdev, which, addresses frequently asked questions in relation to the
Harvard referencing system.
Further help with referencing is provided in Pears, R. and Shields, G.
J. (2013) Cite them right: The Essential Referencing Guide. 9th edn.
Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. available from the Library.
Turnitin UK – Electronic Plagiarism Detection
Turnitin is the global leader in electronic plagiarism detection. It is a tried
and trusted system and over 80% of UK universities have adopted it,
as well as a number of schools, FE colleges, professional and awarding
bodies. Turnitin will help you to avoid ‘cut and paste’ plagiarism.
Use Turnitin to:
• Check your work against a vast database of billions of pages of both
current and archived material.
• Obtain a customised Originality Report after an extensive search of
content of internet sources, books, newspapers and journals from both
academic and professional sources.
It is easy to use and requires minimum training. Guidance can be found
via Northumbria Skills Plus accessed at nuweb2.northumbria.ac.uk/
library/skillsplus/index.html
When you complete an assessed assignment, you will normally hand
in the work to B201 Ellison Building in from 8.30 – 4.00pm (Monday –
Friday) and complete a work submission form. Where practical, marking
is now anonymous so it is essential to provide your correct student ID
number. It is important to keep receipts for hand-ins in case any queries
arise. This sheet is completed by yourself, date stamped and a portion
is returned to you as your receipt for the work. It is important that you
enter the correct module code, module title and tutor to ensure your
work is passed to the correct module tutor. Part-time and distance
learning students should check on exact hand in procedures for their
modules as these may include postal or electronic submission. Students
are responsible for securing their work and not submitting loose sheets
of paper.
You must also keep a separate version of your assignment for your own
records in case a second copy is required. It is also essential to retain
receipts for submitted work.
3.2.5 Late Submission
Sometimes due to circumstances beyond your control it may become
impossible for you to submit a piece of work on time. If this is the case
you must get a Late Submission Form approved by a member of the
Student Support Team in B201 Ellison Building. You must do this in
advance of the hand-in date. Late submissions will normally only be
granted if backed up by appropriate third party written evidence (such
as a medical note). Please note: Pre-booked holidays are not grounds
for late submission. Further information on this process is provided in
Appendix C.
Any work submitted after the deadline and without prior late
approval will receive a mark of zero and will be regarded as
incomplete. You will need to do additional work for any modules
with incomplete components.
3.3 Marking and Feedback
3.3.1 Marking and Moderation
Marking involves staff allocating marks according to defined marking
criteria that have been approved in advance. Assessments may be
marked by a single staff member or a team of markers (depending on
the size of the module). These are invariably the staff who delivered the
module and their expertise in the subject discipline is assured. If the work
is marked by a team, initial meetings and sample marking is undertaken
to establish common expectations in relation to the marking criteria to
minimise variations across markers.
Once all the marking has been completed for an assessment, a sample
of the work is selected for ‘moderation’. The sample size is proportional
to the number of scripts and is selected from the whole range of marks.
Student work is anonymous during the marking and moderation process
and your name will only be revealed once all the marks have been
agreed following the sample check. Prior to the Examination Board, the
2013/14 Student Guide
13
Engineering and Environment
External Examiner also verifies the appropriateness of the marks awarded
within the sample, and it is only at the Exam Board stage that the marks
are fully approved. If there are disparities between markers during the
moderation process, then additional work may be sampled and third
markers may be called upon to resolve any differences. By the end of the
whole process the Exam Board must report that it is satisfied that the
marks that have been awarded are a true reflection of the quality of the
work.
You have responsibility to ensure that you complete the necessary
referrals/deferrals if you have failed modules on the programme. If you
have been referred in a module due to an incomplete component or
academic misconduct you must attempt the referral or the module will
be failed, even if the pass mark was achieved at the first attempt. If you
are aware you have referrals or deferrals to undertake but do not receive
the relevant work, please contact your Programme Administrator or
Programme Leader as soon as possible.
The University standard time for marking is 20 working days (four weeks).
Although this may seem to you like a long time for work to be marked
and returned to you, it is important that we allocate sufficient time for
staff to carefully consider the work, so that the mark allocated fairly
reflects the quality of your submission. Tutors’ marking workloads have
to be considered in relation to the other academic duties they have to
perform. We estimate that, on average, each item of assessed work takes
approximately 20–30 minutes to mark and provide feedback. In addition,
once marked, all assessments have to be moderated (see above) to
ensure fairness and consistency.
It is also imperative that you keep your Programme Administrator
up-to-date with regard to contact details.
3.3.2 Feedback
Feedback is a vital part of your learning process and will occur
throughout your engagement with academic staff. Informal levels of
feedback will often occur in lectures, seminars, lab work and project
activities, and through the use of in-class activities and questioning.
More formal feedback occurs during the assessment process and usually
involves staff writing comments on scripts that are returned to students.
Whilst there will invariably be differences in the styles that individual staff
members adopt to provide feedback, their comments should serve three
main purposes: (1) to explain the mark awarded; (2) to identify strengths
within the work; and (3) to indicate areas that could be improved on for
future work.
It is imperative that you collect all your assessment scripts so that you
benefit from the feedback comments provided by the tutors. Your
feedback provides you with the key opportunity to use assessment to
improve your learning. Hence, if you have any problems understanding
the feedback on your work, you should arrange a meeting with the staff
member to clarify their comments.
It is important to review the comments you have received on all your
work to identify any consistent issues that have arisen across several
pieces of assessment. This will help you formulate an action plan to deal
with recurring weaknesses affecting your attainment. The Skills Plus
programme managed by the University Library is an extremely valuable
resource for students who require general advice such as ‘Writing
Assignments’, ‘Preparing for Exams’ or ‘Thinking Critically’ (see section 5.1.4
of this handbook).
3.4 Referrals (Re-sits) and Deferrals
If you are required to undertake a referral in a module, this will normally
require an agreed assessment (coursework/exam) to be submitted/
taken during the referral examination period scheduled for mid to late
August. You must bear this in mind when making holiday plans. In some
cases you could undertake a deferral; this is where a PEC claim has been
submitted and the Examination Board decides that you should be given
a first attempt at the assessment.
3.5 Personal Extenuating Circumstances
(PECs)
Personal Extenuating Circumstances are defined as circumstances
beyond a student’s control that have significantly affected performance
in any assessment. PEC forms are available from the Student Support
Team in B201 Ellison Building, and online. These forms contain full
guidance notes that you need to read thoroughly, however please note
the following:
• PECs should be of a medical or personal nature affecting you for any
significant period of time and/or during the assessment period. For
long-term issues you are advised to consult your Programme Leader at
the earliest opportunity.
• Claims should be made by published deadlines each semester, in the
semester in which the circumstances occurred and not retrospectively
after receiving your results.
• The evidence submitted should be dated and the date of the evidence
must coincide with the dates of the assessments of the modules being
claimed for
Please refer to the PEC form and guidelines on the Northumbria website
northumbria.ac.uk/sd/central/ar/qualitysupport/assess/assproc/
assdocstud/ and refer to ARNA section 10. Additional information
is available from the Students’ Union in the form of ‘Brief Guides for
Student - Personal Extenuating Circumstance’ available from the
Student Support Team in B201 Ellison Building and via the Students’
Union Advice and Representation Centre mynsu.northumbria.ac.uk/
adviceandrepresentation/ineedadvice/
It is your responsibility to alert the Progression and Awards Board (PAB)
to any personal extenuating circumstances you wish to have considered.
Although you may have discussed your difficulties with a member of
staff, this does not in itself constitute the submission of extenuating
circumstances. Claims for PECs must be made in writing and be
accompanied by medical or other corroborative evidence. Forms which
are not accompanied by medical or other corroborative evidence will not
be considered.
Deadlines will be published on the e-LP, and are available from
G07 Pandon Building and B201 in Ellison Building as well as on the
e-Noticeboards outside these offices.
Should claims be submitted after published deadlines they will need to
include information about why they are late. If students wish to submit
claims after marks have been released you will need to do so under the
appeal process (section 7, Handbook of Student Regulations).
This is an informal process in the first instance.
2013/14 Student Guide
14
Engineering and Environment
The form, evidence and a statement from your tutor are considered by
a Sub-committee of the PAB that assesses all PEC claims. Where claims
are assessed as valid this decision (but not details of the claim) will be
forwarded to the Progression and Awards Board.
All information is treated as confidential and is made available only to the
guidance (or named) tutor, administrative staff processing the claims, and
the members of the PEC Sub-committee. You may, if you wish, submit a
confidential statement direct to the chair of the PEC Sub-committee.
You will be notified of the outcome of your claim by letter.
The PEC process is distinct from the process for approval of late
submission of work. In many cases the Student Support Team in B201
Ellison Building may grant extensions to cover cases where you are
unable to submit work by a given deadline due to short illness etc. (see
section 3.2.5 of this handbook and Appendix C).
Where you have been given an extension and completed the work
you should not then submit a PEC claim unless you feel that the
circumstances affected the quality of the work produced.
The PEC process is distinct from the process for registering as a special
needs student. Where you have been granted extra time for your
examinations or have a flexible deadline due to special needs you should
not then submit a PEC claim unless you feel that the circumstances
affected the quality of the work produced.
3.6 Attendance
At Northumbria University attendance is monitored on all programmes.
Attendance at all taught sessions is extremely important as research
shows that attendance is a key factor in students successfully completing
their programmes.
Northumbria are committed to each students’ wellbeing and success,
therefore it is our policy to monitor attendance and to contact students
who have missed three consecutive taught sessions.
If you receive a letter from the Student Support team then it is
important that you respond to us to confirm the reason for your
absence. Please note that in cases of continued unexplained absences
it may be necessary to instigate formal attendance procedures as
detailed in Section 8 of the Student Handbook of Regulations https://
www.northumbria.ac.uk/vc/leservteam/stud_reg_handbk/
research/?view=Standard
The university is required to confirm attendance to a number of
stakeholders:
• Student Finance England (SFE): The student loans company requires
regular confirmation of attendance in respect of students for which it
pays tuition fees and provides funding
• UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI): In order to maintain Highly Trusted
Sponsor status the University is obliged to monitor attendance of
international students.
3.6.1 Absence from Scheduled Classes
Please inform the Student Support team of your absence as soon as you
are able to, either by telephone or by email and out of courtesy advise
your module tutor. If possible, ask someone who will be attending the
classes to collect copies of hand outs etc for you.
Absence report line: 0191 227 4722
Email: ee.studentsupport@northumbria.ac.uk
If your absence is frequent or long term then you may wish to contact
the Student Support team for advice on how we can assist you. Please
keep a record of any evidence regarding your absences such as a medical
certificate as this will be required should you require late approval or
submit a personal extenuating circumstance application.
The following are acceptable reasons for student non attendance
• Serious illness (or that of a family member)
• Hospital appointments
• Bereavement following the death of a family member or close friend
• Interviews (not an acceptable reason for missing examinations)
Part-time work commitments are not acceptable reasons for non
attendance for full-time students.
Please note that an explained absence is not the same as a justified
absence. An irregular attendance profile will be highlighted to your
programme leader for follow up.
Poor attendance records will be taken into consideration when
references are requested.
3.6.2 Returning from an Absence
As soon as you can, start attending classes again. Let you Guidance
Tutor or Programme Leader know that you are attending classes again
and arrange an appointment to see them if appropriate. Plan your work
carefully, building in time to make up the learning you have missed,
using Blackboard and help from other members of the group in the
first instance. If you need help from class/tutors/module tutors then it
is useful to email them first to explain what you need and arrange an
appointment if necessary.
3.7 Blackboard
The eLearning Portal, often referred to as Blackboard, is a virtual learning
environment available on the University’s website. Having enrolled as a
Northumbria student your Student ID will give you access to any of your
modules that have a Blackboard site attached. You will find that most
modules have such sites and they provide information on the module,
links to other sites, announcements, quizzes, discussion rooms and other
interactive services. You can also expect to find module plans, including
assessment briefs and syllabus and module review information. When
you first meet your module tutors they will be able to give you details of
the site content.
Blackboard also contains a full guide to Student Support and Wellbeing
and Study Skills.
To access Blackboard:
From the Northumbria home page northumbria.ac.uk
• Click on ‘Student Hub’
• Click on ‘eLearning Portal’
• Click on ‘Login Here’
• Enter your username and password
The Blackboard Mobile Learn app is available free to all students. The app
gives greater flexibility in method, time and location used to access the
eLearning Portal.
2013/14 Student Guide
Engineering and Environment
Blackboard Mobile Learn is not intended to be a replacement for desktop
/ laptop computers, but provides convenient access into a number of
areas within the eLearning Portal.
The key features for staff and students are:
• Push Notifications can be sent to your device when changes are
made to eLearning Portal sites, including announcements, discussion
contributions, content, grades or tests. To use any of these you will
need to have notifications turned on for your device. This means you
no longer need to login to see if new content has been added, you will
be informed on your mobile device if you have enabled this to happen.
• View content. You can view new content uploaded to your eLearning
Portal sites with some content types available within the app,
depending on the platform. Otherwise you can view content in your
device’s web browser.
• Participate in discussions. The Blackboard Mobile app provides a very
easy way to view and contribute to discussions boards and blogs.
• Set Favourites. You can set favourite module sites and organisations. To
do this press the star on the course menu and the site will then appear
in the ‘Favourites’ area.
Online demonstrations of the app’s functionality can be viewed at:
blackboard.com/Platforms/Mobile/Resources/Demos.aspx
The app will work on iOS (iPod Touch, iPhone and iPad) devices, Android
devices and BlackBerry devices.
15
2013/14 Student Guide
16
Engineering and Environment
4. Programme Management
4.1 Staffing and Management
4.2.2 Email and telephone
You will meet a large number of academic, administrative and support
staff throughout your studies. The majority of staff will be drawn from
various subject groups within Engineering and Environment, however, if
appropriate, we also draw upon subject specialists from other faculties
and external consultants/advisors.
Please ensure that we have up-to-date contact details for you (ideally
your mobile phone number). If your details change during your time
at Northumbria, please inform your Programme Administrator. We will
contact you throughout the academic year with information and also
your exam results. We may need to contact you at short notice (such as
to inform you of a room change or a cancelled lecture) and while the
telephone usually gives immediate access, email is used extensively
throughout the University and is a very effective method of two-way
communication between students and staff. You will also have been
asked during enrolment to provide a next of kin contact number in
case of emergencies. Again, please ensure you inform your Programme
Administrator of any changes to these details.
Staff and others from the wider University (such as the University Library
and Student Support and Wellbeing) are here to help you get the most
out of your programme. Your Programme Handbook introduces you to
the roles of programme staff and their responsibilities, the Administrators
and any other specific contacts for your programme.
Each programme is lead by a Programme Leader who will be your first
point of contact for any programme management issues.
4.1.1 External examiners
In addition to various staff, the University employs external examiners in
order to provide independent verification of the standards of the degrees
that we award and to ensure that our assessment processes are fair.
At least one external examiner will be appointed for your programme
and will look at a sample of the work produced for assignments and
examinations on your modules.
Sometimes work will be sent to external examiners while on other
occasions they will visit the University to look at work. Some external
examiners may want to meet with you and other students in order to get
a better feel for the programme and the assessment processes used.
The sample of work to be seen by the external examiner is normally
selected by the module tutor and will be representative of the range of
work produced for that module. The number of pieces of work included
in the sample depends upon the number of students on the module.
You still receive feedback on your work and a copy of your work, even if
your work is retained for a sample.
4.2 Communication
A number of means of communication will be used by staff depending
upon the information they wish to convey and the timing. Programme
noticeboards, announcements on the eLearning Portal and email are
frequently used. We also use a texting facility to inform you of urgent
information such as timetable changes.
4.2.1 Notice Boards
Where possible we will send information via email or Blackboard but
in some cases we put relevant information on notice boards. You must
check the notice boards regularly. The location of your notice boards will
be provided during induction. Alternatively this information is available
at the office.
It is particularly important to check the notice boards at the start of
the semester when timetable changes are more likely and towards the
assessment period when important information such as exam rooms and
pass lists will be displayed.
The E-notice board outside G07 in Pandon Building and B201 in Ellison
Building are used to display important information.
You should automatically be allocated an email address by the University
once you have enrolled. Remember that the Northumbria email address
will be the one that is used to make contact with you so do make sure
that you check it regularly, particularly if you also use a personal email
account. Please also ensure that you delete unwanted emails from both
your ‘inbox’ and your ‘deleted items’ box to prevent your email box from
becoming full as this will prevent both the receipt and sending of any
further emails.
Email etiquette when communicating with University staff
The University email service plays a vital role in supporting
communications at Northumbria. Whether you are a new or experienced
user of University email, it is important to be aware of the good practise
and conventions that should underpin your use of this service. Emails are
used by students for communicating about both social and academic
issues; it is therefore easy to forget to adjust your writing style when
you switch from addressing your friends to addressing academic/
other University staff. However, your relationship with University staff is
essentially a professional one and it is important that the written style of
your email correspondence reflects this.
In light of the above, please adopt these simple points of good practise
or ‘netiquette’ in your use of Northumbria University’s email service;
• Remember that the laws of the land relating to written communication
apply equally to email, including laws on defamation, copyright,
obscenity, and fraud.
• Be polite; before sending a message reread it to ensure there is nothing
there that could be perceived as discourteous. If you TYPE IN CAPITALS
for example, this would usually be perceived as shouting.
• Make a good impression; your email may be seen by persons who don’t
know you or the University, so ensure that what you write and how you
write it gives a good impression.
• ‘Textspeak’ (e.g. how r u?) is not appropriate when corresponding with
University staff.
• Pay attention to grammar and spelling. Use the spell check if necessary.
• Be careful about how you express yourself. Use humour and sarcasm
with care; you are much more likely to be misunderstood in an email
than in person, as you are unable to use body language/vocal inflection
to convey your meaning.
• Remember that people other than the addressee may see your
message, so think carefully before sending any sensitive or confidential
information by email.
2013/14 Student Guide
17
Engineering and Environment
• Check your University email regularly and reply promptly as your
correspondents will assume that messages are reaching you. Your
University email address will be used as a first point of contact by both
academic and non-academic staff within the University.
Following the guidelines above will help to ensure that your email
correspondence with University staff is appropriate in style and tone
and should also ensure that your meaning is communicated clearly, with
minimal potential for misinterpretation.
4.2.3 Appointments
We have an open door policy which means you can call in and talk
to a member of staff when ever they are available in their office.
However as academic staff teach on many modules/programmes it is
advisable to make an appointment if you wish to be sure to see them.
Occasionally you may be able to have an immediate appointment but
don’t be disappointed if asked to return at a mutually convenient time.
Please contact staff to cancel if you are unable to make the arranged
appointment.
Your Programme Leader normally allocates time during the week when
he/she will be available; but please feel free to see them at any time if the
situation is urgent.
The Students Support team located in B201 Ellison Building are also
available to deal with any queries (see section 1.3 of this handbook). They
will usually be able to respond to any enquiry and if not, will be able to
advise you where to go next.
4.2.4 Use of Website Discussion Forums and Online
Social Networking Sites
Modern communications technology offers individuals, wherever they
are worldwide, the opportunity to exchange information and opinions,
to get to know one another and to form communities. This is clearly a
positive development, encouraging debate and better understanding
between people. Well-known examples of this medium are provided via
websites such as Facebook and Twitter.
Students at Northumbria are encouraged to exchange information
and to provide feedback on their experience here at the University, and
there are a number of ways to do this. These include the Virtual Learning
Platform Blackboard, course representatives, personal tutors, other
student forums as well as through engagement in the National Student
Survey.
Used properly, social networking sites such as Facebook are a great way
to find old friends, join interest groups and share information. However,
all students who are studying at Northumbria University in Engineering
and Environment should remember that anything posted on a social
networking site is in the public domain.
It is important for all individuals to be mindful of the effect that
statements posted on any medium accessible by others, may have. Such
statements could be in print or on the web, referring to the University,
its students and/or staff. It may also be in the case of a placement
experience, referring to any member of placement staff, or service user.
Any statement posted onto a public forum must comply with both the
University’s rules and regulations (section 3 of the University’s Handbook
of Student Regulations and any other policies and procedures notified to
you) and with civil or criminal law. Defamatory or damaging statements
made about individuals or organisations may be subject to potential
proceedings under the civil or criminal law and the University’s own
regulations.
The University’s advice to all its learning community is therefore to
exercise sensible restraint when engaging in discussion or other types of
exchange using these media.
What may be considered to be letting off steam about a situation within
a learning environment, a placement setting, or at work can potentially
be read by someone who may take offence at the content of a posting.
You should be aware that complaints from any person, either within
or outside the University community, citing incidences of misconduct
in this context, will have to be investigated through the available
disciplinary procedures. In addition, such misconduct may be subject to
action according to civil or criminal law.
The World Wide Web is a wonderful resource for accessing information,
for making friends, for engaging in debate and for entertainment. Like
any other medium, it is important to use it sensibly and with respect to
others.
4.3 Student Feedback and Representation
4.3.1 Feedback and Consultation
As part of the University’s Quality Assurance policy, the views and
opinions of students are an important and valued part of continuous
improvement within programmes. Formally, we ask for feedback via
Programme Committees, through Staff Student Liaison Committees and
Student Reps and via surveys and questionnaires.
Your Programme Committee and Staff Student Liaison Committee
meets every semester. These consist of your programme management
team, plus student representatives selected by the student group. The
Committees consider all aspects of your programme and discusses
actions for improvement where appropriate. They also provide you with
an opportunity to tell us about your learning experience; including
both positive and negative aspects, suggested solutions and/or
improvements that you may like to make. Individual tutors and module
tutors will be invited to attend the meetings where appropriate. The
student representatives will be notified of the dates of the Programme
Committee and will be encouraged to seek your views so that they can
fully represent you and other students on your programme.
You can expect to receive two types of feedback questionnaire:
• Module Feedback Questionnaires – these ask your opinions related to
each module of study. Your responses will help inform module tutors
on any changes to make to the modules, as part of the yearly review
process.
• Programme Questionnaires – this asks your views on general issues
related to the programme as a whole. Your programme is reviewed
on a yearly basis and again the information you supply will provide a
formal input to this.
However, perhaps the most important form of feedback is informal
– through discussions with tutors, administration staff and/or your
Programme Leader. We welcome constructive feedback at any time
about any aspect of your programme. If you have any issues regarding
your programme, we hope that these can be addressed informally
wherever possible. If the issue is related to a particular subject/module
2013/14 Student Guide
Engineering and Environment
then, in the first instance, you should raise this with the tutor or module
tutor concerned. For general issues related to your programme or its
management, you should discuss the matter with your Programme
Leader.
From time to time you may be asked to provide feedback about your
programme and experiences as a student to people external to your
programme as part of the quality management process at the University,
e.g. for Periodic Reviews or for Institutional Audits. If your input to these
processes is sought, you will be provided with further information
explaining what is required and how your feedback will be used.
4.3.2 Student representative
The Faculty and Northumbria Students’ Union work in partnership to
support an effective system of course representation for students on
all programmes – and both are very keen that students put themselves
forward to take on this crucial role. Course Reps are key figures within
the faculty and their course community, and have a real impact on
decisions affecting students. Through their role they also build their
communication and negotiation skills, and the Students’ Union provides
them with training and support. To find out more, email su.coursereps@
northumbria.ac.uk or visit the Students’ Union website at www.mynsu.
co.uk/reps.
18
2013/14 Student Guide
19
Engineering and Environment
5. University Support Services
5.1 Academic Services
5.1.3 Student Support and Wellbeing
A range of services which will support you from your first days at
Northumbria through to graduation and onto your next steps are
available. Many of our services are nationally recognised and customer
service accredited; our aim is to ensure you receive the best possible
standard of service and that you have access to professional support and
advice when you need it.
We realise that alongside your academic life, you will be managing your
day-to-day life, including money, living in a new city or country, and
making new relationships and friendships and we are here to help you
when you may feel you need some additional advice and support. Our
services include:
5.1.1 Ask4Help
Ask4Help is the starting point to enquire about any of our services. It
enables you to place queries 24/7; To contact Ask4Help
•email: ask4help@northumbria.ac.uk
•telephone: 0191 227 4646
• or come and talk to us wherever you
see the Ask4Help sign.
5.1.2 Careers and Employment Service
We can help you to find part-time work while you study, fine tune your
employability skills and guide you through your career choices from first
year to beyond graduation.
Services include:
• Jobsonline – Register for email alerts and search for part-time work,
including jobs on campus, volunteering opportunities and graduate
jobs at northumbria.ac.uk/jobsonline
• One-to-one support – Receive confidential and impartial advice
through booked appointments or the daily Careers Clinics, additional
sessions available for international students.
• Careers Zone – Become better informed, get help in finding
information on career planning, work experience, volunteering, finding
employers, going into further study, working and studying abroad and
applying for jobs.
• Online via the website and the careers tab on the e-learning portal,
including subject specific resources, streamed DVDs giving tips on
interview skills and practice online psychometric testing.
• Employer presentations and careers fairs organised throughout the
year. See northumbria.ac.uk/careersevents or go to our Facebook
pages.
• Careers events on particular topics to help you find a graduate job,
demonstrate your skills to employers, enhance your CV and market
yourself effectively.
Visit us:
City Campus: Careers Zone, University Library
Welfare and International, offering free, impartial and confidential
advice, guidance and information on a wide range of issues including:
student finance support and advice, immigration and visa support,
health and wellbeing. For more information, visit: northumbria.ac.uk/
welfareandinternational
Disability Support, providing advice, guidance and support to all
disabled students. This includes students with dyslexia or dyspraxia,
long-term medical conditions, sensory impairments or autism spectrum
conditions. For more information, visit: northumbria.ac.uk/disabilities
Counselling and Mental Health Support, offering a range of
support services for students who need help when things just get
a bit too much, including personal, emotional and mental health
issues. For more information please visit: northumbria.ac.uk/
counsellingandmentalhealth
Chaplaincy and Faith Advice offering pastoral and spiritual support
to students of different faiths, philosophical beliefs and value systems.
We also offer events and activities, such as lunches, trips and discussion
groups. For more information and to view different prayer rooms
and facilities across our campuses, please visit: northumbria.ac.uk/
chaplaincy
Student Progress offering a web-based self-service portal to enable
students to stay on course in the event of a change of circumstance such
as requesting a course change or taking time out of University. For more
information, please visit: northumbria.ac.uk/stayingoncourse
CONTACT US
At City Campus
• Come to the Student Support and Wellbeing Centre, Ground Floor,
Northumberland Building. The Centre is open 9.00am to 5.00pm
(Monday to Friday)
• Telephone us on 0191 227 4127
At Coach Lane Campus
• Come to the Ask4Help desk in Coach Lane Library
• Telephone us on 0191 215 6590
• northumbria.ac.uk/ssw
facebook.com/nussw
Coach Lane Campus: Library
@nussw
facebook.com/NUCareers
@NUCareers
2013/14 Student Guide
20
Engineering and Environment
5.1.4 University Library
Visit us:
Our Library is here to support your learning throughout your time at
Northumbria. Our professional staff, scholarly collections, and learning
spaces, form a vital part of your learning experience. Our services include:
City Campus Library (City Campus West), Law Practice Library (City
Campus East)
• 24/7. Our online services are always available wherever you are. City
Campus Library is open and staffed 24/7 in term time and we offer
extensive opening hours for all our libraries throughout the year.
northumbria.ac.uk/library
• Learning spaces. At the heart of every Northumbria campus, our
libraries provide a range of study spaces and IT to suit every learning
style including dedicated zones for group, quiet and silent study. PCs,
wireless laptops, printers, scanners, specialist software, interactive
whiteboards and other collaborative tools are available across our
libraries. Refreshments are offered as part of our Learning Café and
shop in the basement of City Campus Library and are nearby at Coach
Lane and the Law Practice Library.
• Library collection. Our extensive library collection encompasses both
print and online resources, including over half a million print books and
half a million electronic books available online so you can access them
whenever or wherever you need. Fifty thousand electronic journals and
over a hundred databases provide additional scholarly resources for
your independent learning and project work.
• Skills Plus and the Northumbria Skills Programme. Northumbria‘s
Librarians ensure you have opportunities throughout your course to
develop the study skills, information literacy and digital literacy you
need to be successful. Our popular Northumbria Skills Programme and
our online multimedia ‘SkillsPlus’ cover topics ranging from searching
for information to writing essays and reports.
www.northumbria.ac.uk/skillsplus
• Disability Support. Our staff are here to help students with
disabilities access Library services. If you would like a personal tour
and introduction to the Library, or you experience any issues using our
services please get in touch via Ask4Help. www.northumbria.ac.uk/
library-disabled-access
Coach Lane Campus Library
facebook.com/northumbriaunilibrary
@nulibrary
5.1.5 Academic Registry
This service provides the student portal, giving you the ability to
interact with and maintain your student record throughout your time at
Northumbria. This is the basis of our contact with you and it is essential
you keep your personal details up to date.
Services within the portal include areas for:
• Enrolment. Before you commence study you will enrol online and
upload your photograph for your Smartcard here, which is your proof of
enrolment whilst at Northumbria. Every year you will re-enrol through
the portal to re-confirm your details or amend as appropriate.
• Online Option Selection. When this facility is made available to your
course, you will choose your optional modules within the portal.
• Your Courses holds the details such as start and end dates for your
course and allows you to view online the modules you are taking.
• Self Service letters. This provides you with the ability to request
services such as Bank or Council Tax letters and a Confirmation of
Enrolment letter.
• Change of Circumstances. This provides the ability to interact with
our Student Progress Team should you wish to change course, take a
break from your studies or leave the University.
• Part-time and Distance Learning Support. If you are enrolled on a
part-time or distance learning course, our online services are designed
so you can make the most of what the Library offers. Our dedicated
Distance Learning service can also provide you with library resources
via post.northumbria.ac.uk/ptdl
• Your Details is where you maintain and update all your personal
data such as contact details and your student support number (if
applicable). You will also receive messages here if we are missing any of
your data. Please make sure your home address is up to date as this is
the address we will use for posting your final award certificate.
• Your Feedback. As part of our commitment to customer service
excellence we seek and value your feedback on everything we do. http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/yoursay-form
• Congregation provides you with details about your graduation
ceremony, and is where you will go to confirm your attendance and
book tickets for the event at the appropriate time
To access any of the above services go to the ‘MyInfo’ tab on
MyNorthumbria.
• Module Results. Once your results have been formally confirmed by
the Exam Board and released by your Faculty, you will be able to view
these online.
To access this service, go to the ‘MyMarks’ tab on MyNorthumbria.
2013/14 Student Guide
21
Engineering and Environment
5.2 Northumbria Students’ Union
The Students’ Union is run by students for students. A registered charity,
the Union is independent of the University. It offers lots of different
opportunities to make the most of your time at Northumbria at both City
Campus (opposite the Library) and Coach Lane.
For your course: Every course has at least one student representative,
or course rep. Appointed at the start of the year, their role is to bring
student views to University staff and work with them on improving the
experience for everyone involved in that course. Course reps are trained
and supported by the Students’ Union. It’s a good idea to get to know
your course rep. You could even be rep for your course! Your programme
leader can tell you more.
The Students’ Union is also the place to go if you have problems with
your course. Their specialist advice staff give independent help on
matters to do with your academic studies; from submitting an appeal or
complaint to supporting you if with personal circumstances that affect
your studies to facing a charge of academic misconduct or student
disciplinary.
For your social life: The Students’ Union in both City and Coach Lane
campus provides lots for students to do and make friends. It’s a place for
students to meet for coffee and lunch between lectures, watch sports in
HD and have fun with evening entertainments from gigs by well-known
bands to student sessions for up and coming musicians. It is also the
place to develop your hobbies and interests. With over 80 societies from
snowsports and skydiving to computer games and writing, from political
societies to international and faith societies, from history to organising
trips around the UK. Whatever your interest, the Union has something for
you.
For your career: It may not seem like it now, but your time at
Northumbria will go quickly, so it is important to make the most of it. Did
you know 73% of employers would recruit a candidate with volunteering
experience over one without? The Union has hundreds of volunteering
opportunities all designed to improve your employability when you
graduate. Don’t wait until your last year to build your C.V.
For your rights: The Union is a student led organisation. Every March,
you will have the chance to vote for next year’s Sabbatical Officers, the
team of five students who lead the Union. The Officers work closely with
the senior staff of University on everything from academic issues that
affect lots of students such as hidden costs and bursaries to pushing
for cheaper, healthier food on campus to campaigning for your safety
in Newcastle. Who you elect in March 2015 will affect how the Union
benefits you in 2015/16.
To find out more about all of these you can (a) visit the website on
mynsu.co.uk, (b) email them at su.enquiries@northumbria.ac.uk and
(c) drop in and see them at City or Coach Lane campus.
2013/14 Student Guide
22
Engineering and Environment
5.3 Finance and Planning
The Finance and planning Department have made the following
arrangements in order to assist you with tuition fee payment advice.
Finance and Planning Department Opening Times
8.30am – 5.00pm
(Cash Office closes 4.00pm)
Monday – Thursday
8.30am – 4.30pm
(Cash Office closes 4.00pm)
Friday
Closed
Saturday – Sunday
24 hour telephone assistance for students
Student Finance Helpline
0191 227 4050
When you ring the Helpline you will be given a unique reference number for your query, with which you
can track the progress at all stages; at the final stage you will also receive an emailed confirmation of the
action taken.
Or email the Student Finance Helpline: it.helpline@northumbria.ac.uk
Automated Telephone Payment System
(for the payment of tuition, accommodation and sport membership fees)
The brochure ‘Important Finance Information For All Students 2014/15’
provides brief details of tuition fee levels, scholarships, payment terms
etc. and can be accessed at northumbria.ac.uk/sd/central/finance/
stud_inf/?view=Standard
5.3.1 Letter of Sponsorship
If you are being sponsored for your fees, then the University requires a
sponsor letter to confirm your sponsorship status. This needs to be on
the Company’s/Sponsor’s letterhead.
The following information must be included in the letter:
0191 215 6555
This letter can be sent to the University as a scanned email attachment to
it.helpline@northumbria.ac.uk
This can also be faxed over on 0191 227 4464. Students can hand this
in person to the Finance Department at Sutherland Building or at their
respective Student offices as well.
Please note that it is your responsibility to hand in a sponsor letter in
time. If the University does not receive a sponsor letter, the student will
be invoiced and would be held liable for paying the fees.
1. Student Number
5.3.2 Problems with Payment of Tuition Fees
2. Student Name
Please note that should you experience any problems with the payment
of your tuition fees you are encouraged to seek advice from the
University Student Welfare Advisors based in the Student Support and
Wellbeing Team and to also contact the Finance and Planning Team as
soon as you can to avoid the implementation of the exclusion process.
Please refer to the Student Handbook of Regulations, Section 13, Credit
Control and Debt Management.
3. The amount or the percentage of the sponsorship.
4. The academic year the sponsorship applies to.
5. Relevant contact person and their email address in the company.
6. Any purchase order or reference that the sponsor would like to be
quoted by the University when we request for payment.
7. A VAT Registration Number if the company has one, if not, this must be
stated in the letter.
8. A Purchase Order number must be quoted by your company in order
for us to validate the sponsor letter.
northumbria.ac.uk/studentregs
2013/14 Student Guide
23
Engineering and Environment
5.4 ESAP (English Language for Specific
Academic Purposes)
The ESAP programme is an in-sessional academic study skills programme
designed to help International students who are on academic courses
at Northumbria and whose first language is not English – even if their
English level is already very high. It is designed to help develop their
literacy and professional communications skills – particularly writing
assignments, dissertations and also project presentation work
Examples of ESAP Seminar topics include:
• Academic style and conventions
• Understanding assignment briefs
• How to use source material effectively – in text citation and writing
reference
• How to avoid plagiarism AND gain credit by quoting, paraphrasing and
summarising correctly
• The planning and structuring of an assignment/ literature review or
dissertation
• How to present effective presentations – with group and tutor
feedback
• Becoming part of the academic community here in Newcastle and
Northumbria
ASk Tutor Paul Milburn
Office
Lipman 001
Emailpaul.milburn@northumbria.ac.uk
ASk Tutor Chris Middleton
Office
Lipman 002
Emailchris.middleton@northumbria.ac.uk
ASk Tutor Deborah Burns
Office
Lipman 010
Emaild.burns@northumbria.ac.uk
ASk Tutor Chris Reed
Office
Lipman 001
Emailc.reed@northumbria.ac.uk
2013/14 Student Guide
24
Engineering and Environment
Appendix A: Glossary of Common Terms & Phrases
ARNA
Assessment Regulations for Northumbria Awards. These are the assessment procedures and regulations that will
govern your study.
Blackboard/ eLearning
Portal
Electronic learning system, known by both names. Modules are supported by Blackboard (Bb) and this forms an
integral part of your module study.
Deferral
If you miss a component of assessment as a result of Personal Extenuating Circumstances, you may be offered the
opportunity to have a first attempt at the assessment for the module.
EB; Ellison Building
PB; Pandon Building
These are the two main buildings for Faculty of Engineering and Environment. Some of your teaching may take
place here. Ellison Building room numbers are prefaced by the building abbreviation, EB, then the Block, with the
first number denoting the floor – e.g. EBA104 is on the first floor of A block in Ellison Building. Pandon rooms are
prefaced by PB with the first number denoting the floor.
Jan Start
The academic year for most degree courses runs from September to August (‘Sept start’). However, some degrees,
normally postgraduate, run from January to December and are known as ‘Jan start’.
MEB (Module Examination
Board)
Module Examination Board where results for individual modules are considered.
Module
An individual unit of study with its own module code, curriculum, learning outcomes, teaching and learning
methods and assessment. Each module counts as a number of credits (10, 20, etc.) towards the total number of
credits required for the final award. Each module has its own code consisting of letters and numbers e.g. GE0177
NU
Northumbria University
PAB (Progression and
Awards Board)
The Progression and Awards Board considers student results profiles and determines classification of awards and
progressions to the next year.
PEC (Personal Extenuating
Circumstances)
Students who are unable to undertake assessments or who feel their performance has been affected by illness or
other personal circumstances can submit a Personal Extenuating Circumstance claim (however, evidence must be
provided in all cases to demonstrate how you have been affected).
TEC (Technical Extenuating
Circumstance)
For example, if the computer/s break down when undertaking an examination; or if a fire alarm goes off during an
exam, then a Technical Extenuating Circumstances claim (TEC) can be submitted. Generally TECs are used when a
group of students are affected.
Referral
If you fail a module you will be given an opportunity (as long as your performance in other areas of your
programme is good enough) to undertake further assessment in order to make good that module.
Programme
Programme is the title used to describe the degree you are studying. Each programme has a code number
e.g. ACH1. You may need to refer to this on various official University documents.
2013/14 Student Guide
25
Engineering and Environment
Appendix B: Map of City Campus
15
27
San
al
Centr
et
10
33
13
31
4
e
Str
8
r
na
lco
Fa
d
Roa
be
um
)
167 (M
way A
20
d
rlan
11
21
Motor
29
22
36
l
Co
32
ge
le
et
re
St
2
35
25
rth
No
7
16
30
23
3
6
34
ce
’s Pla
To Haymarket
Metro Station
38
14
oad
rd R
dyfo
ry
a
St M
26
et
tre
yS
Da
28
39
9
e
lac
nP
iso
Ell
19
1
37
24
18
17
5
d
oa
D
tR
an
ur
12
To Monument
Metro Station
eet
ge Str
rid
New B
Manors Metro Station
Reception/Information Centre
Parking
Cycle Parking
Bus Stop (Free Bus)
Public Bus
Café
Key
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
21 & 22 Ellison Place
Campus Services
Burt Hall
Camden Court
Clapham House
Claude Gibb Hall
Drill Hall
Ellison Building
Ellison Terrace
Northumbria Nursery
Glenamara House
Hadrian House
Health Centre
Library
15 Lipman Building
16 Lovaine Halls and Flats
17 Business and Law Building
18Newcastle Unitarian Church
(Durant and Turner Halls)
19 Nixon Hall
20 Northumberland Building
21 Pandon Building
22 Rutherford Hall
23 St James’ Church
24 Design Building
25 Sport Central
26 Squires Annexe
inc. Gallery North Project Space
27 Squires Building inc. Gallery North
28 Squires Workshops
29Student Support and Wellbeing Centre
30 Students’ Union
31 Sutherland Building
32 Sutherland House (Security)
33 Trinity Building
34 University Gallery and Baring Wing
35 Victoria Hall
36 Wynne-Jones Building inc. Chaplaincy
and Faith Advice Centre
37 Mea House
38 Muslim Prayer Facility
39 Sandyford Building (Newcastle College)
2013/14 Student Guide
26
Engineering and Environment
Appendix C:
Late Submission Process
Notes:
If you are unable to meet the set deadline for your assessment you may
apply for an extension via our Late Submissions Process. Please note that
a late submission will only be granted when the criteria below are met
and supporting evidence is received.
Instances 1: One-week extension (2 weeks for project/dissertation)
• You identify that you will be unable to meet the set deadline for
your assessment and that a short-term extension would allow you to
complete the piece of work.
• An extension request form can be obtained from the Student Support
Team in B201 Ellison Building which is completed and submitted with
the appropriate evidence to support your claim at least 24 hours
before the assignment due date and time.
• The form is reviewed and matched to the instances noted below and
an appropriate extension is either granted or you are referred to your
Year Tutor or Programme Leader for further guidance. Please note:
Your Module Leader, Year Tutor and Programme Leader will be
informed of your new submission date.
• Your assessment is completed and submitted on the new agreed date
and time.
• Undergraduate Dissertation/Project Late Submission requests will be
authorised by Tutors
• Postgraduate Dissertation/Project Late Submission requests will be
authorised by subject administrators.
• Short-term medical problem with supporting evidence.
• Compassionate grounds affecting only this submission with supporting
appropriate evidence.
• Employment commitments (part-time students only) with supporting
evidence.
• Disability or on-going special needs which carry a recommendation
of flexible deadlines for assessed work (student must be listed on
the Student Support and Wellbeing Disability register, which will be
checked by Office Staff ).
Instances 2: 24 hour extension (48 hour for project/dissertation)
• IT-related problems (not printers) which are the fault of the University
with supporting evidence.
Instances 3: Longer term extensions would be referred to your
Year Tutor/Programme Leader for guidance (refer to Programme
Leader/1st or 2nd marker for project/dissertation)
• Disability or on-going special needs which carry a recommendation
of flexible deadlines for assessed work (student must be listed on
the Student Support and Wellbeing Disability register, which will be
checked by Office Staff ).
• A long-term/major illness or personal issues which requires tutor
guidance.
2013/14 Student Guide
Engineering and Environment
Appendix D
27
2013/14 Student Guide
Engineering and Environment
28