Exceptional Assessment Regulations

Swansea University is committed to ensuring the quality of provision and the standards of its awards in emergency situations. During exceptional circumstances it is essential that academic standards and professional body requirements continue to be met. As a result, it may be necessary to vary normal academic protocols, for example:

• Priority may be given to processing information relating to award students.
• Progression and Faculty/School Examining Boards may be rescheduled. Revised assessment schedules must be adhered to allow operation of the Examining Boards, e.g. marking deadlines, submission of marks etc.
• Procedures for internal moderation may require variation.

Sample moderation will be conducted for all assessment modes at all levels (including Taught Postgraduate dissertations), prior to the meeting of the Examining Board, with the exception of assessment methods that are automated (i.e. the answers are machine or optically read), or in quantitative assessments in which model answers are provided to the marker. These are normally exempt from moderation but may need to be checked for accuracy or calibration.

Moderation must be evidenced and recorded consistently. Where full double-blind marking is applied and in any instances of marks being received from one marker only, those marks shall be used as the confirmed marks subject to the agreement of the External Examiner. In the event that internal moderation cannot take place the Faculty will be responsible for finding an alternative staff member to conduct the moderation or to request that the External Examiner conducts this role.

It is expected that the External Examining process will proceed consistent with existing requirements and expectations including the provision to allow Examining Boards to continue irrespective of the attendance of one or more External Examiners. Faculties may seek the appointment of alternative External Examiners where necessary.

Examination Examining Boards will operate in accordance with the University’s Assessment Regulations.

The Examining Board Chair will be responsible for ensuring the quoracy of Examining Boards. Should the Chair have any doubts regarding the quoracy of subject/discipline Examining Boards this should be referred to the Head of School. In the event that it is not possible for a subject/discipline Examining Board to meet, decisions will be submitted to the Faculty/PAB for full consideration.

If the designated Chair of the Examining Board is not able to Chair the meeting, then the Faculty may determine an alternate Chair.

The following exceptional regulations shall apply to Swansea University programmes and Integrated Year 1 or Pre-master’s programmes in The College where marks/grade are unavailable due to the Marking and Assessment Boycott.

The following principles will apply:

• The standards of the University’s awards will be upheld.
• Normal assessment protocols (i.e. assessment regulations, submission, late submission penalties, non-submission policies, extenuating circumstances, academic misconduct etc.) should be followed.
• All work submitted will be marked and students will receive an actual mark/grade for their work. However, the University recognises that there may be a time delay in confirming these marks/grades due to the Marking and Assessment Boycott.
• Where marks/grades are unavailable due to the Marking and Assessment Boycott, and adjustments are considered essential, there must be consistency and fairness in the application of this guidance to student cohorts; however, this guidance cannot be applied if it conflicts with Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body (PSRB) requirements.
• Learning outcomes for the programme should be met.
• To ensure standards, fairness and consistency University Progression and Award Boards will operate as combined Faculty/University Boards.
• Any exceptional cases which fall outside these regulations will be referred to the Assessment and Awards Team in Student  Services and a decision will be made in consultation with the Head of Student Services, the Chair of the University Student Cases Board and/or the Chair of the Regulations Standards and Quality Committee with reference to the normal assessment regulations for the programme.
• The University reserves the right to correct any errors made in relation to marks/grades/decisions made during the Marking and Assessment Boycott.

Undergraduate Students in Level 6/7¹: Final Year Awards 2023

The following regulations shall apply to all programmes which are not subject to any PSRB requirements².

1.

All students will be expected to pursue 120 final year credits in line with the relevant assessment regulations.

2.

Where a student does not have full module marks/grades available for 120 credits but has marks/grades available/confirmed in 100 credits or more of modules in their final level of study the Examining Board should consider whether it is possible to confirm a provisional module mark to allow a provisional award and classification to be approved. The Examining Board will consider the following:

• Whether there are partial marks/grades available (normally for at least 40% of the total module mark) where the unavailable components may be excluded, and the partial mark(s)/grade(s) used as a provisional module mark (provided that the learning outcomes for the programme have been achieved).
• The student’s profile and whether the running average is consistent with the marks/grades already achieved and can be used as a provisional module mark/grade (provided that the learning outcomes for the programme have been achieved).
• The number of actual failed modules (with reference to the compensation regulations).
• Whether any approved deferrals have been agreed.
• Whether the learning outcomes for the programme have been met.

Once actual marks/grades are known the outcome will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board. Where the actual mark would result in a higher classification the award will be uplifted, and the actual mark recorded on the student’s transcript. Where the actual mark is lower than the provisional mark the best mark principle will apply, the provisional mark will stand, and the classification will not be downgraded to a lower classification³.

3. 

Where a student does not satisfy 1 and 2 above but has marks/grades available/confirmed in 60 credits or more of modules in their final level of study a provisional decision will be determined based on the marks/grades already achieved. The Examining Board may refer to the current running average, confirmed failed marks/grades, partial marks/grades and any formative assessments in arriving at a decision. However, marks/grades for formative assessments will not be used as a substitute mark/grade for summative assessment.

4.

Where a student has less than 60 credits of full module marks/grades in their final level of study but where partial marks/grades are available in modules (for at least 40% of the total module mark/grade) which could count towards the 60 credits required the Examining Board shall give full consideration whether to exclude the unavailable components and use the partial mark/grade as a guide to make a provisional decision. The Examining Board may refer to the current running average, confirmed failed marks/grades, the module learning outcomes and any formative assessments in arriving at a decision. However, marks/grades for formative assessments will not be used as a substitute mark/grade for summative assessment.

5.

Where a student has less than 60 credits of full module marks/grades in their level of study and there are no modules with partial marks/grades the Examining Board should consider whether to make a provisional decision or wait for the actual marks/grades to be returned. The Examining Board may refer to the current running average, any confirmed failed marks/grades, previous levels of study and/or formative assessments in arriving at a decision. However, marks/grades for formative assessments will not be used as a substitute mark/grade for summative assessment.

6.

Where a student does not have full module marks/grades available for 120 credits but satisfies 3, 4 or 5 above the Examining Board should consider whether it is possible to confirm a decision of award predicted. The Examining Board will consider the following:

• Whether there are partial marks/grades available
• The student’s profile and whether the running average is consistent with the marks/grades already achieved and can be used as a provisional module mark/grade.
• The number of actual failed modules (with reference to the compensation regulations).
• Whether any approved deferrals have been agreed
• Whether the learning outcomes for the programme have been met.

7.

Students awarded a provisional classification, or an award predicted decision must achieve an overall level average of at least 35% and not have actual failed marks/grades in more than 40 credits in line with the relevant standard assessment regulations. Where these conditions are not met any provisional decision will be deferred until actual marks/grades are known.

8.

The University will compensate failure down to 0% in non-core modules in up to 40 credits where programme rules permit⁴.

9.

Where a student is subject to a pending case of academic misconduct any provisional decision will be deferred until the case is concluded and any related outcomes/penalties are known.

10.

Students may apply for a deferral opportunity on the basis of extenuating circumstances in accordance with the Extenuating Circumstances Policy. Where a deferral has been granted a student will be permitted to undertake supplementary assessment in the deferred module(s) only.

11.

Where a student has passed more than 80 credits but failed a core module(s) at the first attempt and assessment regulations allow a student will be permitted to undertake supplementary assessment in the core module(s) only (for a capped mark).

12.

Once actual marks/grades are known the outcome will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board and an outcome and classification (where appropriate) confirmed in accordance with the normal assessment regulations for the programme. Where the actual mark(s)/grade(s) are confirmed as a failure which is not eligible for compensation under the regulations the student will be considered for an exit award.

13.

In accordance with University procedures a student who has not yet paid all fees due to the University will have any award decision (provisional or actual) deferred until the financial debt has been cleared.

^1. Level 7 Advanced Initial Degrees only

^2. Exceptional regulations for Engineering programmes are included in Appendix One. A list of all other programmes which are subject to PSRB requirements and for whom these regulations do not apply are included in Appendix Two. 

^3. Where the actual mark is higher than the provisional mark, but the classification does not change, the higher mark will be recorded on the student’s transcript.

^4. For programmes in Engineering following these regulations (Foundation Year) compensation applies to failures down to 30% in non-core modules in up to 20 credits.

Progressing Students in levels 3, 4, 5 or 6⁵ – Full Time students (the approach will also apply pro rata for part-time students).

The following regulations shall apply to all programmes where PSRB allow⁶.

1.

All students will be expected to pursue 120 credits in line with the relevant assessment regulations.

2.

All students progressing to the next level of study must normally achieve an overall level average of at least 35% in line with the relevant standard assessment regulations.

3.

The University will compensate failure down to 30% in non-core modules in up to 40 credits where programme rules permit⁷.

4.

Where there are module or assessment marks/grades unavailable due to the Marking and Assessment Boycott, students will be allowed to progress and trail up to 40 credits (MAB affected modules only) into the next academic year. The following conditions shall apply

Student has passed (with a mark of 40% or more/pass grade) all other modules.

or

Student may be eligible for compensation once the unavailable marks/grades are confirmed (see 3 above).

5.

In cases where a student has passed all modules for the level of study (compensation applies) but there are marks/grades unavailable due to the Marking and Assessment Boycott for some of the components the student will be permitted to continue into the next level of study. Once actual marks/grades are known the module mark(s)/grade(s) will be updated.

6.

Where a student does not meet the criteria specified in 4 and 5 above and has not failed more than 60 credits the following will apply:

• Where a student has failed a core module(s) (with full module marks/grades confirmed) the student will be required to take supplementary assessments in the failed core module(s) and/or any failed modules that are non-core and are not eligible for compensation during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a student is subject to a pending case of academic misconduct at the May/June Examining Board the student will be awarded supplementary assessments in the affected module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a deferral has been granted the student will be awarded supplementary assessments in the deferred module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.

7.

Where a student has more than 60 credits of actual failed marks/grades, they will be considered in accordance with the normal assessment regulations for the programme.

8.

Where a student subsequently passes all supplementary attempts, they will normally be permitted to progress and trail up to 40 credits (MAB affected modules only) into the next academic year.

9.

Where a student fails a supplementary assessment but has not failed a core module or more than 40 credits and may therefore be eligible for compensation once the unavailable marks/grades are confirmed they will normally be permitted to progress and trail up to 40 credits (MAB affected modules only) into the next academic year.

10.

Students who fail a supplementary attempt with any mark which is not eligible for compensation (less than 30%) will be required to repeat the level of study.

11.

Students who are repeating the level or repeating failed modules and fail a supplementary attempt with any mark which is not eligible for compensation (less than 30%) will have their decision deferred until actual marks/grades are known.

12.

As per the standard assessment regulations, supplementary assessment at Level 5 (or Level 6 for Advanced Initial Degrees) will be capped at 40% unless a deferred first attempt has been agreed by the Faculty in accordance with the Extenuating Circumstances Policy.

13.

Where a student is provisionally permitted to progress trailing credits but the actual mark/grade for the submitted work, when it is known, is not eligible for compensation  the student will be given an additional reassessment of the failed module(s) whilst continuing at the current level of study (trailing credits). The assessment will normally be scheduled early in the academic session and must take place prior to the end of the first semester.

14.

Where a student is progressing onto a year in Industry/abroad but the actual mark/grade for the submitted work, when it is known, is a failure which is not eligible for compensation the student will be given an additional reassessment of the failed module(s) whilst continuing on the year in industry/abroad. The assessment will normally be scheduled early in the academic session and must take place prior to the end of the first semester.

15.

Where a student sits an additional reassessment for a trailed module(s) and subsequently fails a module(s) which is not eligible for compensation under the regulations the student may be

a) Granted a final supplementary attempt.
b) Advised to transfer programme (where applicable).

^5. Level 6 Advanced Initial degrees only.
^6. Exceptional regulations for Engineering programmes is included in Appendix One.
^7. For programmes in Engineering following these regulations (Foundation Year) compensation applies to failures down to 30% in non-core modules in up to 20 credits.

1.

Where marks/grades are unavailable in any module/modules it will not be possible to determine a provisional outcome for the module.

2.

Faculties may make any actual marks/grades and partial marks/grades available to the student.

3.

Once actual marks are known the final outcome will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board.

The following regulations shall apply to all programmes which are not subject to any PSRB requirements⁸.

1.

All students will be expected to pursue 120 credits in line with the relevant assessment regulations.

2.

All modules must be passed with a mark of 40% or above; however, the University will compensate failure down to 30% in non-core modules in up to 40 credits where programme rules permit.

3.

Where a student does not have full module marks/grades available for 120 credits but has marks/grades available/confirmed in at least 60 credits of confirmed pass marks/grades the Examining Board should consider whether it is possible to confirm a decision of award predicted. The Examining Board will consider the following:

• Whether there are partial marks/grades available.
• The student’s profile and whether the running average is consistent with the marks/grades already achieved and can be used as a provisional module mark/grade.
• The number of actual failed modules (with reference to the compensation regulations).
• Whether any approved deferrals have been agreed.
• Whether the learning outcomes for the programme have been met.

Once actual marks are known the final outcome will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board.

4.

Where a student does not satisfy 3 above and has not failed more than 60 credits the following will apply:

• Where a student has failed a module(s) (with full module marks/grades confirmed) the student will be required to take supplementary assessments in the failed module(s) during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a student is subject to a pending case of academic misconduct at the May/June Examining Board the student will be awarded supplementary assessments in the affected module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a deferral has been granted the student will be awarded supplementary assessment in the deferred module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.

5.

Where a student has more than 60 credits of actual failed marks/grades, they will be considered in accordance with the normal assessment regulations for the programme.

6.

Following the supplementary attempts, the Examining Board shall consider whether a decision of award predicted can be confirmed (see 3 above) or whether to wait for the actual marks/grades to be returned. The Examining Board may refer to the current running average, any confirmed failed marks/grades and/or formative assessments in arriving at a decision. However, marks/grades for formative assessments will not be used as a substitute mark/grade for summative assessment.

7.

Students repeating modules/the level who have actual failed modules will be considered in accordance with the normal assessment regulations.

8.

Once actual marks/grades are known they will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board and an outcome confirmed.

9.

Where actual marks are confirmed as failures not eligible for compensation, the student will be offered a reassessment at the next available opportunity, provided the student has not exhausted their attempts to pass other modules at the supplementary Examining Board (e.g. already failing a module which is not eligible for compensation at the third and final attempt at the Examining Board as determined by the programme assessment regulations).

10.

In accordance with University procedures a student who has not yet paid all fees due to the University will have any award decision (provisional or actual) deferred until the financial debt has been cleared.

^8. Exceptional regulations for Engineering programmes are included in Appendix One. A list of all other programmes which are subject to PSRB requirements and for whom these regulations do not apply are included in Appendix Two.  

The following regulations shall apply to all programmes which are not subject to any PSRB requirements⁹.

1.

All students will be expected to pursue 240 credits in line with the relevant assessment regulations.

2.

All modules must be passed with a mark of 40% or above; however, the University will compensate failure down to 30% in non-core modules in up to 40 credits where programme rules permit.

3.

Where a student does not have full module marks/grades available for 120 credits in their first year of study the Examining Board should follow the exceptional regulations for progressing students.

4.

Where a student does not have full module marks/grades available for 120 credits in their second year due to the Marking and Assessment Boycott, but has marks/grades available/confirmed in at least 60 credits of confirmed pass marks/grades, the Examining Board should decide whether it is possible to confirm a decision of award predicted. The Examining Board will consider the following:

• Whether there are partial marks/grades available.
• The student’s profile and whether the running average is consistent with the marks/grades already achieved and can be used as a provisional module mark/grade.
• The number of actual failed modules (with reference to the compensation regulations).
• Whether any approved deferrals have been agreed.
• Whether any modules are core.
• Whether the learning outcomes for the programme have been met.

Once actual marks are known, the final outcome will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board.

5.

Where a student does not satisfy 4 above and has passed 60 credits or more the following will apply:

• Where a student has failed a module(s) (with full module marks/grades confirmed) the student will be required to take supplementary assessments in the failed module(s) during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a student is subject to a pending case of academic misconduct at the May/June Examining Board the student will be awarded supplementary assessments in the affected module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a deferral has been granted the student will be awarded supplementary assessment in the deferred module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.

6.

Where a student has more than 60 credits of actual failed marks/grades, they will be considered in accordance with the normal assessment regulations for the programme.

7.

Following the supplementary attempts, the Examining Board shall consider whether a decision of award predicted can be confirmed (see 3 above) or whether to wait for the actual marks/grades to be returned. The Examining Board may refer to the current running average, any confirmed failed marks/grades, previous levels of study and/or formative assessments in arriving at a decision. However, marks/grades for formative assessments will not be used as a substitute mark/grade for summative assessment.

8.

Students repeating modules/the level who have actual failed modules will be considered in accordance with the normal assessment regulations.

9.

Once actual marks/grades are known they will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board and an outcome confirmed.

10.

Where actual marks are confirmed as failures not eligible for compensation, the student will be offered a capped reassessment at the next available opportunity, provided the student has not exhausted their attempts to pass other modules at the supplementary Examining Board (e.g. already failing a module which is not eligible for compensation at the third and final attempt at the Examining Board as determined by the programme assessment regulations).

11.

In accordance with University procedures a student who has not yet paid all fees due to the University will have any award decision (provisional or actual) deferred until the financial debt has been cleared.

^9. Exceptional regulations for Engineering programmes are included in Appendix One. A list of all other programmes which are subject to PSRB requirements and for whom these regulations do not apply are included in Appendix Two.  

The following regulations shall apply to all programmes which are not subject to any PSRB requirements¹⁰.

1.

All students will be expected to pursue 120 credits of taught modules in line with the relevant assessment regulations.

2.

Where assessments have been completed and marks/grades confirmed for 120 credits of taught modules a decision will be taken in accordance with the normal progression regulations for the level/programme of study.

3.

The University will compensate failure down to 40% in non-core modules (provided that the overall mark for the taught modules is at least 50%) in up to 30 credits where programme rules permit¹¹. 

4.

Where there are module or assessment marks/grades unavailable due to the Marking and Assessment Boycott, but a student has passed (with a mark of 50% or above) all other modules they will normally be allowed to progress and trail up to 40 credits (MAB affected modules only) and continue with their directed independent learning module(s).

5.

Where a student does not meet the criteria specified in 4 above the following will apply:

• Where a student has failed up to 30 credits within the range for compensation (40-49) and passed all other modules, the student will have the option to compensate the marks or take the supplementary opportunity.
• Where a student has failed a module(s) with a mark below 40% or a fail grade (with full module marks/grades confirmed) the student will be required to take supplementary assessments in the failed module(s) during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a student is subject to a pending case of academic misconduct at the May/June Examining Board the student will be awarded supplementary assessments in the affected module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a deferral has been granted the student will be awarded supplementary assessments in the deferred module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.

6.

Where a student subsequently fails a supplementary attempt the final decision/outcome will be deferred until all marks/grades are known. Once actual marks/grades are known they will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board and an outcome confirmed.

7.

Where a student is provisionally permitted to progress trailing credits but the actual mark/grade for the submitted work, when it is known, is a failure not eligible for compensation the student will be given an additional reassessment (final attempt) of the failed module(s) whilst continuing with their directed independent learning module(s). The reassessment will normally be scheduled early in the academic session and must take place prior to the end of the first semester.

8.

Students repeating modules who have actual failed modules will be considered in accordance with the normal assessment regulations.

^10. Exceptional regulations for Engineering programmes are included in Appendix One. A list of all other programmes which are subject to PSRB requirements and for whom these regulations do not apply are included in Appendix Two.  

^11. For programmes in Engineering following these regulations, compensation applies to failures down to 40% in non-core modules in up to 20 credits.

The following regulations shall apply to all programmes which are not subject to any PSRB requirements¹².

1.

All students will be expected to pursue 180 credits of taught modules in line with the relevant assessment regulations.

2.

If assessments have been completed and marks/grades confirmed for 120 credits of taught modules a decision will be taken in accordance with the normal progression regulations for the level/programme of study.

3.

The University will compensate failure down to 40% in non-core modules (provided that the overall mark for the taught modules is at least 50%) in up to 30 credits where programme rules permit.

4.

Where there are module or assessment marks/grades unavailable due to the Marking and Assessment Boycott, but a student has passed (with a mark of 50% or above) all other modules they will normally be allowed to progress and trail up to 40 credits (MAB affected modules only) and continue with their directed independent learning module(s).

5.

Where a student does not meet the criteria specified in 4 above the following will apply:

• Where a student has failed up to 30 credits within the range for compensation (40-49) and passed all other modules, the student will have the option to compensate the marks or take the supplementary opportunity.
• Where a student has failed a module(s) (with full module marks/grades confirmed) the student will be required to take supplementary assessments in the failed module(s) during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a student is subject to a pending case of academic misconduct at the May/June Examining Board the student will be awarded supplementary assessments in the affected module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a deferral has been granted the student will be awarded supplementary attempts in the deferred module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.

6.

Where a student subsequently fails a supplementary assessment attempt the student will be permitted to continue for an exit award, in accordance with the normal assessment regulations.

7.

Where a student is provisionally permitted to progress trailing credits but the actual mark/grade for the submitted work, when it is known, is a failure not eligible for compensation, the student will be given an additional reassessment (final attempt) of the failed module(s) normally as an external student. The reassessment will normally be scheduled early in the next academic session and must take place prior to the end of the first semester.

8.

Students repeating modules who have actual failed modules will be considered in accordance with the normal assessment regulations.

^12. Exceptional regulations for Engineering programmes are included in Appendix One. A list of all other programmes which are subject to PSRB requirements and for whom these regulations do not apply are included in Appendix Two.

The following regulations shall apply to all programmes which are not subject to any PSRB requirements¹³.

1.

All students will be expected to pursue 180 (240 for Extended programmes) credits of taught modules in line with the relevant assessment regulations.

2.

Where marks/grades for the directed independent learning module(s) are available a decision will be confirmed in accordance with the relevant assessment regulations.

3.

Where marks/grades are unavailable in any module/modules which form part of their directed independent learning element of the programme it may not be possible to determine a provisional decision. Every effort will be made to mark the work submitted. Once actual marks/grades are known they will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board and an outcome confirmed.

^13. Exceptional regulations for Engineering programmes are included in Appendix One.  A list of all other programmes which are subject to PSRB requirements and for whom these regulations do not apply are included in Appendix Two.  

The following regulations shall apply to all programmes which are not subject to any PSRB requirements¹⁴.

1.

All students will be expected to pursue 60 credits in line with the relevant assessment regulations.

2.

All modules must be passed with a mark of 50% or above.

3.

Where a student does not have full module marks/grades available for 60 credits, but has at least 40 credits of confirmed pass marks/grades the Examining Board should consider whether it is possible to confirm a decision of award predicted. The Examining Board will consider the following:

• Whether there are partial marks/grades available
• The student’s profile and whether the running average is consistent with the marks/grades already achieved and can be used as a provisional module mark.
• The number of actual failed modules
• Whether any approved deferrals have been agreed
• Whether any module(s) are core modules
• Whether the learning outcomes for the programme have been met.

Once actual marks/grades are known the outcome will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board and an outcome confirmed.

4.

Where a student does not meet the criteria specified in 3 above the following will apply:

• Where a student has failed a module(s) (with full module marks/grades confirmed) the student will be required to take supplementary assessments in the failed module(s) during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a student is subject to a pending case of academic misconduct at the May/June Examining Board the student will be awarded supplementary assessments in the affected module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a deferral has been granted the student will be awarded supplementary assessments in the deferred module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.

5.

Where a student subsequently fails a supplementary assessment attempt the final decision/outcome will be deferred until all marks/grades are known. Once actual marks/grades are known they will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board and an outcome confirmed.

6.

Where an actual mark/grade, when it is known, is a failure the student will be given an additional reassessment (final attempt) of the failed module(s) normally as an external student. The reassessment will normally be scheduled early in the next academic session and must take place prior to the end of the first semester.

7.

Students repeating modules who have actual failed modules will be considered in accordance with the normal assessment regulations.

8.

In accordance with University procedures a student who has not yet paid all fees due to the University will have any award decision (provisional or actual) deferred until the financial debt has been cleared.

^14. Exceptional regulations for Engineering programmes are included in Appendix One. A list of all other programmes which are subject to PSRB requirements and for whom these regulations do not apply are included in Appendix Two.  

The following regulations shall apply to all programmes which are not subject to any PSRB requirements¹⁵.

1.

All students will be expected to pursue 120 credits in line with the relevant assessment regulations.

2.

All modules must be passed with a mark of 50% or above; however, the University will compensate failure down to 40% in non-core modules in up to 30 credits where programme rules permit.

3.

Where a student does not have full module marks/grades available for 120 credits but has marks/grades available/confirmed in at least 60 credits of confirmed pass marks/grades the Examining Board should consider whether it is possible to confirm a decision of award predicted. The Examining Board will consider the following:

• Whether there are partial marks/grades available.
• The student’s profile and whether the running average is consistent with the marks/grades already achieved and can be used as a provisional module mark.
• The number of actual failed modules (with reference to the compensation regulations).
• Whether any approved deferrals have been agreed.
• Whether the learning outcomes for the programme have been met.

Once actual marks are known the final outcome will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board.

4.

Where a student does not meet the criteria specified in 3 above the following will apply:

• Where a student has failed up to 30 credits within the range of compensation (40-49) and passed all other modules, the student will normally have the option to compensate the marks or take the supplementary opportunity.
• Where a student has failed a module(s) (with full module marks/grades confirmed) the student will be required to take supplementary assessments in the failed module(s) during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a student is subject to a pending case of academic misconduct at the May/June Examining Board the student will be awarded supplementary assessments in the affected module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a deferral has been granted the student will be awarded supplementary assessment in the deferred module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.

5.

Once actual marks/grades are known the outcome will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board and an outcome confirmed. Where the actual mark(s)/grades are confirmed as a failure which is not eligible for compensation under the regulations the student will be given an additional reassessment (final attempt) of the failed module(s) normally as an external student. The reassessment will normally be scheduled early in the next academic session and must take place prior to the end of the first semester.

6.

Students repeating modules who have actual failed modules will be considered in accordance with the normal assessment regulations.

7.

In accordance with University procedures a student who has not yet paid all fees due to the University will have any award decision (provisional or actual) deferred until the financial debt has been cleared.

^15. Exceptional regulations for Engineering programmes are included in Appendix One. A list of all other programmes which are subject to PSRB requirements and for whom these regulations do not apply are included in Appendix Two. 

Joint programmes with partners outside the University will be considered on a programme-by-programme basis in accordance with the University’s academic quality standards and regulatory procedures.

Once actual marks/grades are available outcomes will be considered at the next scheduled Examining Board.

For Progressing students’ where actual marks/grades are available by 1 September 2023 outcomes will be considered at the relevant September Supplementary Examining Board. Where actual marks/grades are not available by this date, outcomes will be considered at a November Examining Board.

For Award students’ actual marks/grades and outcomes will be considered at the November Examining Board. Following the Examining Board award certificates will be posted to students.

Exceptional Assessment Regulations – All Engineering programmes.

The following exceptional regulations shall apply to Engineering programmes which are subject to PSRB requirements.

Undergraduate Students in accredited Engineering programmes

Level 6/7¹⁶: Final Year Awards 2023

1.

All students will be expected to pursue 120 final year credits in line with the relevant assessment regulations.

2.

In all accredited Engineering programmes, all modules are ‘CORE’ in accordance with the requirements laid out by the accrediting bodies for the programmes. This means, that any student completing Years 1, 2, 3, 4 of an accredited programme must pass all 120 credits of modules on which they are enrolled.

3.

Where a student does not have full module marks available for 120 credits but has clearly passed all modules with the component marks available/confirmed the Examining Board should consider whether it is possible to temporarily exempt the missing component mark to allow a provisional award and classification to be approved.

4.

Once the actual component mark(s) are known the final outcome will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board. Where the actual mark would result in a higher classification the award will be uplifted, and the actual mark recorded on the student’s transcript¹⁷.

5.

Where a student has passed 80 credits and has failures in the remaining available credit, they will be granted supplementary examinations in line with the Engineering regulations. 

6.

Where a student does not satisfy 3 the Examining Board will wait for the actual marks to be returned in order to confirm the students award decision. Once actual marks are known the outcome will be considered by the next appropriate Examining Board and an outcome and classification (where appropriate) confirmed.

7.

Where a finalist student is subject to a pending case of academic misconduct at the May/June Examining Board, the student may be awarded supplementary assessments in the affected module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period (subject to the regulations).

8.

Students may apply for a deferral opportunity on the basis of extenuating circumstances in accordance with the Extenuating Circumstances Policy. Where a deferral has been granted a student will be permitted to undertake supplementary assessment in the deferred module(s) only.

Progression 2023 (students currently in levels 3, 4, 5 or 6) – Full Time students (the approach will also apply pro rata for part-time students).

1.

All students will be expected to pursue 120 credits in line with the relevant assessment regulations.

2.

In all accredited Engineering programmes, all modules are ‘CORE’ in accordance with the requirements laid out by the accrediting bodies for the programmes. This means, that any student completing Years 1, 2, 3, 4 or an accredited MSc programme must pass all 120 credits of modules on which they are enrolled.

3.

All students progressing to the next level of study must normally achieve an overall level average of at least 35% in line with the relevant standard assessment regulations.

4.

Where there are module or assessment marks unavailable due to the Marking and Assessment boycott, students will be allowed to progress and trail up to 40 credits (MAB affected modules only) into the next academic year. The following conditions shall apply:

• Student has passed (with a mark of 40% or more) all other modules.

5.

In cases where a student has passed all modules (120 credits) but there are marks unavailable due to the Marking and Assessment boycott for some of the components the student will be permitted to continue into the next level of study trailing the marks for the unavailable components.

6.

Where a student does not meet the criteria specified in 4 above and has not failed more than 60 credits the following will apply:

I. Where a student has failed a core module(s) (with full module marks confirmed) the student will be required to take supplementary assessments in the failed core module(s) during the supplementary assessment period.
II. Where a student is subject to a pending case of academic misconduct at the May/June Examining Board the student will be awarded supplementary assessments in the affected module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.
III. Where a deferral has been granted the student will be awarded supplementaries in the deferred module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.

7.

Where a student has failed more than 60 credits but fewer than 20 credit of actual failed marks/grades, they will be required to repeat the level of study.

8.

Where a student has 100 credits or more of actual failed marks/grades, the decision will be deferred.

9.

Where a student subsequently passes all supplementary attempts, they will normally be permitted to progress and trail up to 40 credits of MAB affected modules into the next academic year.

10.

Students who fail a supplementary attempt with any mark which is not eligible for compensation (less than 30%) will be required to repeat the level of study.

11.

Students who are repeating the level or repeating failed modules and fail a supplementary attempt will have their decision deferred until actual marks are known.

12.

As per the standard assessment regulations, supplementary assessment at Level 5 (or Level 6 for Advanced Initial Degrees) will be capped at 40% unless a deferred first attempt has been agreed by the Faculty in accordance with the Extenuating Circumstances Policy.

13.

Where a student is provisionally permitted to progress trailing credits but the actual mark for the submitted work, when it is known, is a failure not eligible for compensation, the student will be given an additional reassessment of the failed module(s) whilst continuing at the current level of study (trailing credits). The assessment will normally be scheduled early in the academic session and must take place prior to the end of the first semester.

14.

Where a student is progressing onto a year in Industry/abroad but the actual mark for the submitted work, when it is known, is a failure which is not eligible for compensation, the student will be given an additional reassessment of the failed module(s) whilst continuing on the year in industry/abroad. The assessment will normally be scheduled early in the academic session and must take place prior to the end of the first semester.

15.

Where a student sits an additional reassessment for a trailed module(s) and subsequently fails a module(s) which is not eligible for compensation, under the regulations the student may be:

a) Granted a final supplementary attempt.
b) Advised to transfer programme (where applicable).

Postgraduate Taught Students – Standard Programmes Part One

1.

In all accredited Engineering programmes, all modules are ‘CORE’ in accordance with the requirements laid out by the accrediting bodies for the programmes. This means, that any student completing an accredited MSc programme must pass all 120 credits of taught modules on which they are enrolled, in addition to the 60 credit Directed Independent Learning element (180 credits in total).

2.

If assessments have been completed and marks confirmed for 120 credits of taught modules a decision will be taken in accordance with the normal progression regulations for the level/programme of study.

3.

Where there are module or assessment marks unavailable due to the Marking and Assessment boycott, students will normally be allowed to progress and trail up to 40 credits (MAB affected modules only) and continue with their directed independent learning module(s). The following conditions shall apply:

• Student has passed (with a mark of 50% or more) all other modules.

4.

Where a student does not meet the criteria specified in 2 or 3, the following will apply:

• Where a student has failed a module(s) (with full module marks confirmed) the student will be required to take supplementary assessments during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a student is subject to a pending case of academic misconduct at the May/June Examining Board the student will be awarded supplementary assessments in the affected module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.
• Where a deferral has been granted the student will be awarded supplementaries in the deferred module(s) and any other failed modules during the supplementary assessment period.

5.

Where a student subsequently fails a supplementary attempt the final decision/outcome will be deferred until all marks are known. Once the actual marks are confirmed an Examining Board will be convened as soon as possible to confirm an exit award.

6.

Where a student is provisionally permitted to progress trailing credits but the actual mark for the submitted work, when it is known, is a failure not eligible for compensation, the student will be given an additional reassessment (final attempt) of the failed module(s) whilst continuing with their directed independent learning module(s). The reassessment will normally be scheduled early in the academic session and must take place prior to the end of the first semester.

^16. Level 7 Advanced Initial Degrees only.
^17. Where the actual mark is higher than the provisional mark, but the classification does not change, the higher mark will be recorded on the student’s transcript.

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

Hillary Rodham Clinton School of Law

PGDip Legal Practice
LLM Legal Practice and Advanced Drafting

School of Social Sciences

PGCE Primary with QTS
PGCE Secondary with QTS (and variants)

Faculty of Medicine Health and Life Science

School of Health & Social Care

PGCert Non-Medical Prescribing for Nurses & Midwives
Grad Cert in Perioperative Care
Certificate in Health Care Studies
BSc (Hons) / GradDip/ MSc/ PGDip Specialist Community Public Health Nursing

• Health Visitor
• School Nurse

(with and without integrated V100)

BSc (Hons)/GradDip/MSc/PGDip Community Health Studies Specialist Practice Award in District Nursing
BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Audiology)
BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Rehabilitation Engineering)
BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Medical Engineering)
BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Cardiac Physiology)
BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Respiratory & Sleep Physiology)
BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Nuclear Medicine)
BSc (Hons) Health Care Science (Radiotherapy Physics)
BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Radiation Physics)
BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Neurophysiology)
BMid (Hons) Midwifery – Long Programme
MOst Osteopathy
DipHE in Paramedic Science
DipHE in Paramedic Science for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)
BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science
BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)
CertHE Basic Audiological Practice
BSc (Hons) Social Work
MSc Social Work
PGCert Approved Mental Health Professional
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy
BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice
MSc/PGDip Advanced Clinical Practice (Primary Care)

School of Medicine

(Graduate Entry), MB BCh Medicine
MPharm (Hons) with Foundation Year / MPharm (Hons) Pharmacy

Postgraduate:
MSc Biomedical Science (Clinical Biochemistry)
MSc Biomedical Science (Clinical Microbiology)
MSc Biomedical Science (Cell Pathology)
MSc Clinical Science (Medical Physics)
MSc/PGDip/PGCert Diabetes Practice
MSc/PGDip/PGCert Genomic Medicine
MSc/PGDip/PGCert Health Data Science
MSc/PGDip/PGCert Health Informatics
MSc/PGDip/PGCert Leadership for the Health Professions
MSc/PGDip/PGCert Medical Education
MSc Medical Radiation Physics
MSc/PGDip/PGCert Nanomedicine
MSc Physician Associate Studies

School of Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology
BSc (Hons) Psychology [with a foundation year]
BSc (Hons) Criminology and Psychology
BSc (hons) Education and Psychology
BSc (Hons) Sociology and Psychology
BSc (Hons) Psychology Year Abroad
BSc (Hons) Criminology and Psychology Year Abroad
BSc (Hons) Education and Psychology with a year abroad
BSc (Hons) Sociology and Psychology with a year abroad
MSc Clinical Psychology and Mental Health