Last updated 2 December, 2011 © 2012 Newcastle University
Each module within your degree programme will be assessed. Assessment methods vary but include examinations, assessed coursework, presentations or class tests.
Examinations can take place at the end of Semester 1 (in January) or at the end of Semester 2 (in May / June) or at the end of both Semesters. Examination dates and times are set by the University and, at the appropriate time of the year, students can view their own personalised exam timetable online at http://www.ncl.ac.uk/examinations/
Examinations are scheduled on Saturdays as well as on week days. It is YOUR responsibility to check the details VERY carefulyl and present yourself at the correct venue, on the correct day, and at the correct time. The format of each examination is governed by its rubric i.e. the written instructions on the paper. The Module Leader will tell you what format to expect. Where a student fails to achieve an overall pass mark for a module (40%), they are allowed two further attempts (unless the module is part of their final year). Resit examinations take place in Newcastle in the second half of August. A third and final attempt is available at the next normal occasion of examination (January and / or May / June); candidates take a year out as an ‘External Candidate’ in these circumstances.
The University Examination Guidelines (pdf)
Deadlines for the submission of assessed work will be provided at the start of each module by the Module Leader. Unless instructed otherwise by the Module Leader, students are required to post one paper copy of their work by 4.00PM on the deadline date into the appropriate assignment box.
Where a student has a good reason for being unable to meet a submission deadline, they must complete a Personal and Extenuating Circumstances (PEC) form in advance of the deadline. Good reasons are normally those associated with unexpected medical or personal problems e.g. illness, close family bereavements etc.
In accordance with the University Policy on the Late Submission of Assessed Work, any work submitted after the deadline without an approved extension (but with seven days of the deadline) will lead to a maximum mark of 40% for the assessment in question. Work submitted more than seven days after the deadline will be recorded as a non-submission and a mark of zero will be recorded. This applies to all assessed work whether it constitutes all or part of the final mark.
Sometimes things happen that are beyond our control (illness, personal problems etc.) If things start to affect your studies, you need to let someone know; there are processes and people in place to help you.Your Personal Tutor is a good starting point as they will be able to advise you about the various University procedures. Some requests can be dealt with by your Degree Programme Director; others will need to be referred to a central point within the University. If, for whatever reason, you feel unable to discuss your personal circumstances with your Personal Tutor, you should contact your Degree Programme Director or the Senior Tutor for your degree programme.
The most important thing you can do is to tell us about the problems that you are experiencing. To do this, please complete a Personal and Extenuating Circumstances (PEC) form. In completing this form, we can then consider the most appropriate type of adjustment, for example, an extension, exemption, deferral, concession, or use of discretion etc. It is essential that you are aware of, and have faith in, the PEC process. You may feel that you do not wish to share the details of your circumstances. However, if you do not bring this to our attention at the time, your circumstances cannot be taken into consideration when considering your performance. Students are reassured that all PEC paperwork is handled in the strictest of confidence.
Each academic year you will study modules totalling 120 credits. Please ensure that you check the modules that you are registered for on the S3P system. If you notice any errors, please contact your programme secretary immediately.
You can check your academic timetable at the following link: http://www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
A number of degree programmes are accredited by Professional Bodies. Please see your Programme Handbook for further information. It is worth noting that when applying for professional accreditation after you graduate you will be asked to submit certain information. We strongly recommend that you collect this whilst at university. The information that you need to keep includes:
We believe that the best approach to getting help / advice is to try to sort things out promptly and to speak to the person who is closest to issue. For example, if you have a problem with a particular module, the best thing to do would be to contact the lecturer or seminar leader for that module. If after that you cannot resolve the problem, then the next thing to do would be to speak to your Personal Tutor or the Degree Programme Director.
For a variety of reasons some students may find it necessary to take a break from their studies. If you are thinking of transferring to another programme, suspending study for a year, or withdrawing from University altogether, please consult your Personal Tutor, Degree Programme Director, or Programme Support member of staff. There will be paperwork to complete to ensure that all necessary parties are informed of your decision.
Last updated 2 December, 2011 © 2012 Newcastle University