Assessment Criteria

Assessment, progression and arrangements for handling referrals are in accordance with the rules and regulations of Newcastle University.

Examinations are marked on a % basis, the % mark being converted into a grade on the 16 point grade scale. Assignments are marked on the same 16 point scale. For each module, the examination and assignment grades are averaged on an equal weighting basis. The resultant module grade is rounded up to the nearest whole number.

For each module passed there are 15 credits awarded for which the standard required is a minimum of grade 8.

The industrial project is marked on the basis of the 16 point scale. The project is worth 60 credits for which the standard required is a minimum of grade 8.

To be awarded an MSc with Distinction, the following criteria will normally apply:

• A total of 180 credits of which:
  • Optional modules contribute 120 credits (8 modules).
  • The industrial project contributes 60 credits.
• and a minimum of grade 14 for the overall average grade based on 120 credits worth of modules.
• and a minimum of grade 14 for the industrial project.

To be awarded an MSc with Merit:

• Exactly the same criteria apply as for the MSc with Distinction, except that the threshold is grade 11.

To be awarded an MSc, the following criteria will normally apply:

• A minimum of 150 credits based upon the same combination of modules as above,
• with there being no individual module less than grade 5,
• and a minimum of grade 8 for the overall average grade based on 120 credits worth of modules,
• and a minimum of grade 8 for the industrial project.

To be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma, the following criterion will normally apply:

• A minimum of 90 credits with
• a minimum of grade 8 for the overall average grade based on 120 credits worth of modules

The Diploma may be awarded with Distinction or Merit at the discretion of the Examinations Board. 

Viva

Award of the MSc or Diploma will be subject to the outcome of any oral examination of any delegate which the External Examiner may decide to conduct.