Swansea University and Nanjing Tech University Joint Education Institute Joint Postgraduate Degrees

These regulations apply to programmes delivered at a partner institution outside Wales so are exempt from the Welsh Language Standards

Definition of Terms and Explanation

‘The programme(s)’: the academic programme(s) delivered by the JEI, leading to the SU award of MSc and the NJTU award of Master of Engineering.
‘Core module(s)’: the modules identified as constituting the core academic knowledge for the programme. Core modules must be passed to progress or complete the programme.
‘Compulsory module(s)’: the modules that are required by the Chinese Ministry of Education and which count towards the NJTU award but not the SU award.
‘Taught module(s)’: the modules which are taught by either SU or NJTU and form the programme before the directed independent learning study. These can be core or compulsory modules.
‘Directed independent learning’: a study which provides an opportunity to engage in extended research on one or more aspects of the syllabus. This can be one single piece (often called the ‘dissertation’ or ‘thesis’) or multiple pieces of assessed work.
‘Credit’: A measure of load that is related to the contact hours in both the Chinese and UK system. In these regulations, the SU credits will be used throughout in reference to the core modules in the programme.
Flexible Taught Masters: A full-time programme of study consisting of modules totalling 180 SU credits where directed independent learning is undertaken at the same time as some or all of the taught modules. Note that the JEI Postgraduate Programmes regulations will apply to these programmes in place of the standard SU Flexible Postgraduate Taught Master’s Regulations.
‘Take’: The registration of an effort to undertake a module, for example, first take, second take.
‘Attempt’: The registration of an effort to undertake the assessment in a module, for example, first attempt, resit/ second attempt.
‘First sit’: Where a student may attempt the module again in its entirety due to approved extenuating circumstances, including attending lectures and seminars. Marks for first sits are not capped. Essentially a retake of the module without registering an attempt.
‘Resit’: Where a student may attempt the assessment for a failed module again, at the next available opportunity. Students may not resit the Directed Independent Learning element(s) of assessment. Students are not permitted to resubmit improved, original submissions. Any/all submissions must be original.
‘Retake of module’: Where a student fails to pass a module(s) at the first attempt (due to academic failure or absence) but is eligible to progress to the next year of study the student must retake the failed module(s) in addition to their diet of modules for the next year of study. Modules which are not passed at the first attempt, with the exception of the directed independent learning, will permit a retake opportunity if relevant criteria are met (Section 3, 4 and 5). Retake of a module includes attending lectures and seminars and attempting all associated assessment(s) for the module. In the event of a conflict between a ‘retake’ module and a ‘first take’ module, the first take module takes precedence. The overall module mark for a retake module will not be capped. Students will be charged on a pro-rata basis for the retake of modules, unless there are approved extenuating circumstances. Students are not permitted to resubmit improved, original submissions. Any/all submissions must be original.
‘Matriculation’ / 'Registration’: the formal admission of a student to the programme leading to an award from SU and NJTU. ‘Matriculation’ is the term used by SU and ‘registration’ is the term used by NJTU.
‘Accumulate’ or ‘attain’: to gain credit (pass modules).
‘Exit award’: recognition of a completion of a number of credits for students who have not completed a full Masters programme, afforded to students who have taken modules on the programme and attained credit but have failed to qualify for the intended award (Section 25)
'Training plan’: a structured framework designed to guide the academic and professional development of postgraduate students. It typically includes clearly defined objectives, specialised research or training directions, and a comprehensive course structure that combines core and compulsory modules. Other essential components also involve academic activities like seminars, research practice, and the completion of a dissertation.
Graduation certificate (Biye Zhengshu): A certificate awarded by NJTU to students who complete all elements of the NJTU award.
Certificate of completion (Jieye Zhengshu): Students who completed all elements of the NJTU award except the directed independent learning will receive a certificate of completion. If they later successfully complete the directed independent learning within the maximum candidature of the programme, they will be eligible to receive an NJTU graduation certificate but in order to do so must relinquish the Jieya Zhengshu Eligible students will also be considered for an SU exit award from Swansea University. In the event that a student successfully complete the directed independent learning within the maximum candidature of the programme and are therefore eligible for an MSc, they must relinquish any earlier exit awards.
Certificate of attendance (Yiye Zhengshu): Students who withdraw after completing at least one year of study and passing all year 1 taught modules will receive the certificate of attendance. Eligible students will also be considered for an exit award from Swansea University.
Study certificate: Students who complete less than one year of study and do not pass all year 1 taught modules can receive the study certificate. Eligible students will also be considered for an exit award from Swansea University.

1. Introduction

The following Postgraduate Programme Regulations relate to the postgraduate masters (MSc) and Master of Engineering programmes jointly offered by Swansea University (SU) and Nanjing Tech University (NJTU) as partners in the Joint Education Institute (JEI) leading to a double award.

1.1 Students may qualify for an award of Swansea University under these regulations upon successful completion of one of the following approved full-time modular programmes of study: MSc Automaton and Electrical Engineering; MSc Chemical and Process Engineering; MSc Materials Science and Technology.

1.2 Students may qualify for an award of Nanjing Tech University under these regulations upon successful completion of one of the following approved full-time modular programmes of study: Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering; Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering and Technology; Master of Engineering in Materials Science and Engineering.

1.3 The general management of the programmes shall be the responsibility of the JEI Joint Management Board (JMB) and its subsidiary committee, the Joint Academic Board (JAB), established in accordance with the Memorandum of Agreement between SU and NJTU. The day-to-day management of the programme shall be the responsibility of the programme directors in SU and NJTU.

2. General Regulations

2.1 All students must enrol as students of both SU and NJTU and pay the appropriate fees prescribed by the JEI.

2.2 Students enrolled on these postgraduate programmes may not concurrently be enrolled on another postgraduate programme leading to the award of a qualification of this nature in this or another university.

2.3 The candidature of students found to be in breach of Regulation 2.2 shall normally be cancelled with immediate effect.

2.4 As enrolled students, students must comply with the relevant JEI, SU and NJTU academic and general regulations.

2.5 All Masters Programmes shall be assessed by examination/coursework and submission of piece/pieces of directed independent learning.

3. Structure of Semesters

3.1 The academic year shall be structured in accordance with the academic calendar published annually by NJTU.

4. Entry Conditions

4.1 Students are admitted to programmes of study in accordance with the specific academic programme requirements and the general SU and NJTU requirements governing articulation/registration. A student for postgraduate taught award must hold one of the following qualifications prior to commencement of study:

An initial Bachelor’s degree (normally 2.2 or above) or a Masters degree of a recognised Chinese University.

National Postgraduate Entrance Examination

Conditions of offer may include requirements relating to matriculation (see Regulation 4.4 below).

4.2 Applicants for taught postgraduate programmes, who do not have an undergraduate degree, must instead have significant relevant work or other experience, which has been assessed by the Admissions Selectors as appropriate for admission to the relevant programme.

4.3 A prospective student who already holds a doctoral level qualification (including PhD, the Engineering Doctorate and Taught Doctorates etc.) shall show that the postgraduate taught programme to be pursued is in a different field of study from that for which the Doctoral degree was awarded.

4.4 Students must provide evidence to NJTU Graduate School of their qualifications in the form of original certificates or official academic transcripts confirming to award of the qualification(s) from the awarding institution or other body, to be eligible for matriculation/ registration.

4.5 Prior to admission to the programme of study, NJTU will confirm that a student has sufficient English Language skills to permit entrance onto the programme through successful completion of the foreign language element of the National Postgraduate Entrance Examination in English.

4.6 Students must disclose character and suitability issues as required by SU and NJTU or otherwise in relation to their programme of study. The onus is on the student to provide any evidence they consider necessary and appropriate to enable SU and NJTU to make a decision on their application. Failure to disclose a character and suitability issue or evidence of those issues necessary and appropriate to enable SU and NJTU to make a decision on an application, may lead to withdrawing a student or not admitting a student to a programme of study.

4.7 NJTU will conduct a preliminary check of admission qualifications prior to matriculation/ registration. Within 3 months of the enrolment of new students, a comprehensive review of their admissions qualifications will be carried out by NJTU. The admission qualification will be cancelled for both institutions if there are inconsistencies between the information given by students and the evidence provided.

4.8 Students will be deemed ineligible to enrol where they do not meet SU and NJTU requirements for matriculation/registration.. Where the student is deemed ineligible to enrol and/or fails to enrol within a prescribed enrolment period, this will result in the student’s candidature lapsing and the withdrawal of the student from both institutions (see Regulation 5).

5. University Enrolment

5.1 All students are expected to enrol in both institutions in order to be recognised as a student of SU and NJTU. Students will be required to enrol with both institutions at the start of the programme, with SU at the start of each subsequent year of study, and with Nanjing Tech at the start of each semester. Students should pay the relevant fees at the start of the programme and each subsequent year.

5.2 All students shall enrol in accordance with the enrolment instructions for the particular programme of study in each institution and within the prescribed enrolment period as defined by the JEI.

5.3 In order to enrol with SU and NJTU, students, where applicable, are required to provide evidence of entitlement to study at each institution in accordance with:

the specific programme requirements.

Each institution’s regulations governing matriculation/registration.

The laws governing study in both the United Kingdom (Wales) and the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

5.4 All students will be recorded in the national registration system for students of higher education. Students are required to log on the China Higher Education Student Information (CHSI) to check their student status information. If the information is found to be incorrect, the student should submit an application for revision to NJTU Graduate School, which will be submitted to the Ministry of Education for approval. If the registration information is wrong, the registration shall be considered invalid until it is corrected.

5.5 Where the student does not provide satisfactory evidence of entitlement to study at SU and NJTU in accordance with Regulations 6.3 and 6.4 above and by the deadline stipulated by the JEI, the student will be deemed ineligible to enrol.

5.6 Where the student fails to enrol with either SU or NJTU within the prescribed enrolment periods and/or pay the programme fees, this will result in the student’s candidature lapsing and the withdrawal for non-enrolment of the student from both institutions.

5.7 Reinstatement of the candidature and permission to enrol late.

Students who are not able to enrol with NJTU and SU by the deadline must apply to the NJTU Graduate School in accordance with the NJTU Graduate Student Status Management Regulations.

The decision to approve or not approve permission to enrol late will be made by the NJTU Graduate School in accordance with the "Nanjing Tech University Graduate Student Status Management Regulations." and Swansea University. The maximum extension period must not exceed two weeks. The decision will be reported to SU Student Records. Students who do not enrol with both institutions by the deferred deadline will be deemed to have withdrawn for non-enrolment.

5.8 Students who are not able to enrol due to ill health may apply to the NJTU Graduate School in accordance with the NJTU Graduate Student Status Management Regulations and apply to defer enrolment for 1 year. The decision to approve or not approve deferral will be made by the NJTU Graduate School in accordance with JEI criteria. The decision will be reported to SU Student Records.

5.9 Each institution shall notify the relevant respective authorities, in accordance with laws governing study in the United Kingdom and the People’s Republic of China (PRC), of students who have been withdrawn for failure to enrol on a programme of study within the prescribed enrolment period.

5.10 By completing the enrolment process, students confirm that they will abide by the regulations of both institutions, reflecting their status as enrolled at both institutions.

5.11 Students who change names, ID numbers or other personal details during the academic year should provide the appropriate legally valid supporting documents to NJTU Graduate School for verification. The new information will be reviewed by NJTU and reported to the higher education administration and SU Student Records.

5.12 Admin review

To request an admin review of the decision to not approve reinstatement of candidature and permission to enrol late, students must submit an Admin Review Form. A review and final decision will be made by the NJTSI Joint Management Board (JMB).

6. Programme of Study 6.1-6.4

6.1 The programmes are offered on a full-time basis only. The SU programmes are delivered as flexible taught Masters programmes. Learning outcomes shall be specified for each Masters programme.

6.2 Time Limits

6.2.1 Maximum/Minimum Periods of Candidature shall be as follows:

Full-Time – 3 year programme
Minimum	3 years	Maximum	5 years

The period of candidature will normally include any periods of suspension.

6.3 Level of Study

6.3.1 The level of study shall be at level 7 of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ).

6.4 Study Plan of Nanjing Tech Degree

6.4.1 Students who, within the prescribed period of study, have completed all components of the approved curriculum, obtained passing grades, and satisfied the University’s graduation requirements may, upon personal application and approval by NJTU, be permitted to graduate. The graduation certificate shall be conferred by NJTU. Students who meet the criteria for the award of a Master’s degree may apply for the degree. Upon successful review and approval by the University’s Academic Degree Evaluation Committee, the degree certificate shall be conferred by Nanjing Tech University.

6. Programme of Study 6.5

6.5 Modules within the Programme - Swansea University degree

6.5.1 Each programme of study leading to the attainment of a SU award will consist of a list of core modules to the value of 180 SU credits, published by the JEI and approved by the Chinese Ministry of Education. This will include 100 SU credits of taught modules in Years 1 and 2 and a directed independent learning assessment(s) worth 80 SU credits in Year 3.

The programmes are delivered in the following format:

Year 1 – 50 credits of taught modules

Year 2 – 50 credits of taught modules (literature review skills) and research and practical activities

Year 3 – 80 credits Directed Independent Learning

All students must complete 80 credits of directed independent learning within the normal maximum period of candidature as set out in Regulation 6.2.1.

6.5.2 A module is a discrete educational component of a programme. Modules delivered by NJTU will have equivalent SU credits, in additional to NJTU credits.

6.5.3 In addition:

each module is assigned a unique SU reference number;

the learning outcomes of each module reflect the academic standards of the level of study;

each module contributing to the SU award shall also be assigned European Credit Transfer System Credits (10 ECTS credits is approximately equivalent to 20 Swansea University credits).

6.5.4 Modules may be grouped into the following categories:

Lecture based;

Practical based;

Dissertation based;

or an appropriate combination of these categories (composite module).

6.5.5 All modules contributing to the SU MSc programmes are core. Core modules must be pursued and passed for a student to qualify for an award. Failures in core modules must be redeemed. Students shall have a maximum of two opportunities to pass any module required for a SU award: the first attempt and a retake,. All attempts must normally be completed within one academic cycle of the initial take.

In accordance with the degree award regulations of SU, any student who fails a core module after two attempts shall be deemed not to have met the academic standards of Swansea University. Such students shall be withdrawn from the SU programme and shall not be eligible for the award of a Swansea University degree, although they may be considered for an exit award (Section 25).

Students in this category may apply to continue their studies within the JEI on a programme leading to a NJTU award only. They shall be required to pay the prescribed tuition fees and to complete all elements of the curriculum specified by NJTU. Students who qualify for an award of NJTU shall be permitted to graduate and shall be awarded a master’s degree by NJTU.

6.5.6 All modules in the training programme must be completed and passed by students in order to complete their current stage of study and qualify for an award NJTU. Failed modules must be retaken at the next available opportunity.

6.5.7 Eligibility for the award of a SU degree shall require attainment of English language proficiency at IELTS 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in each component) or above. During their studies, students’ English Language proficiency will be assessed and should be a minimum of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

6.5.8 The JEI will specify the structure and delivery model of a programme at the point of programme approval.

6. Programme of Study 6.6-6.7

6.6 Directed Independent Learning (DIL)

6.6.1 Each candidature shall be completed by the presentation of a piece or pieces of directed independent learning and the approval of such work by the examiners.

6.6.2 NJTSI shall assign one Supervisor to each student, who must be an active employee of NJTU. The selection, changes, responsibilities, and management of supervisors shall be carried out in accordance with relevant regulations of Nanjing Tech University.

6.6.3 The assessment of guided self-study shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the "Implementation Measures for Graduate Degree Applications at Nanjing University of Technology (Trial)" in relation to the NJTU Award, only.

6.7 Programme Awards

6.7.1 Students may qualify for an award upon successful completion of an approved modular programme of study provided on a full-time basis.

6.7.2 SU Masters degrees and Postgraduate Certificate and Diplomas are awarded to students who have demonstrated:

A systematic understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of their academic discipline, field of study or area of professional practice.

A comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship.

Originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline.

Conceptual understanding that enables the student:

to evaluate critically current research and advanced scholarship in the discipline;

to evaluate methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, to propose new hypotheses

Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to:

Deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level.

Continue to advance their knowledge and understanding, and to develop new skills to a high level.

And holders will have:

The qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring:

the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility;

decision-making in complex and unpredictable situations;

the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development

6.7.3 The Awards for these Postgraduate programmes shall be as follows:

SU awards:

Flexible masters

180 credits (100 credits of taught modules and 80 credits of directed independent learning to be conducted concurrently with the taught delivery, in a structured and discrete)

NJTU awards:

Graduation Certificate

And Degree Certificate

All taught modules passed. Directed independent learning passed. Evaluation of morality, intelligence, physical health and aesthetic ability completed.

6.7.4. Exit awards are detailed in section 25.

7. Handbook/Guidance

7.1 A Student Handbook/Guidance shall be made available to each student at or before the commencement of studies.

8. Transfer of Programmes

8.1 Students will not be permitted to transfer to other programmes within the JEI and other programmes within SU and NJTU.

8.2 Students will not be permitted to transfer on to programmes within the JEI from other programmes within SU and NJTU.

9. Engagement of Students

9.1 The JEI expects students to adhere to the engagement requirements as outlined in the SU Student Charter and NJTU Graduate Students Disciplinary Regulations, in accordance with the NJTSI Engagement Statement (see Regulation 9.2)

9.2 NJTSI Engagement Statement

It is expected by SU, NJTU and the JEI that all enrolled students should engage with any scheduled face-to-face or virtual learning sessions associated with each module they are pursuing for the full duration of the programme inclusive of all scheduled weeks within terms and semesters.

Scheduled learning sessions include, but are not limited to, lectures, seminars, workshops, study groups, practical classes, tutorials, examinations, supervisory meetings, field trips or other activities which students are expected to engage with.

The JEI requires students to adhere to any additional programme requirements identified in the programme handbook/guidance.

10. Monitoring of Progress and Engagement

10.1 Attendance shall be monitored in accordance with NJTU’s Regulations for Leave Application and Approval Management for Students.

10.2 Progress shall be monitored through regular discussion sessions with Personal Tutors and through the NJTSI Progression and Award boards.

11. Student Absence

11.1 Students whose work is interrupted by illness for more than seven days are required to inform the NJTSI Academic Affairs office in writing and to submit a medical certificate.

11.2 A student who has been absent from an examination is required to send, without delay to the NJTU Graduate School, a written explanation within five working days of the examination taking place. In the case of illness, they shall also be required to submit a medical certificate.

11.3 All students shall note that it is their responsibility to make the JEI aware as soon as possible of any extenuating circumstances which could impact their performance either during the academic year or during assessment, in accordance with the SU policy on Extenuating Circumstances Affecting Assessment. Academic appeals based on extenuating circumstances which could have been brought to the attention of the JEI prior to the meeting of examination boards shall not be considered.

12. Reasonable Adjustments

12.1 The Swansea University Reasonable Adjustment Policy for Learning and Assessment outlines the University’s approach to Reasonable Adjustments. Students are able to disclose a disability at any time throughout their programme of study. Students can access support without medical evidence underpinning a diagnosed disability, however supporting evidence will be encouraged as this will assist the University in determining the most appropriate support.

Students may disclose a disability in a number of different ways. This could include:

Advising the academic affairs office and/or Counsellor directly, either as an applicant or as after enrolment.

Telling a member of staff elsewhere in the Joint Institute (for example, the student’s Personal Tutor, lecturer, or Counsellor).

Sharing information through other academic and non-academic processes (for example, by disclosing needs related to student accommodation or as part of an application for extenuating circumstances).

12.2 A student requiring adjustments to their studies as a result of disability, long-standing medical condition, wellbeing difficulty or Specific Learning Difficulty should discuss their requirements with the Academic Affairs Office to ensure that NJTSI can make a full assessment of their needs and ensure that appropriate adjustments are recommended.

In urgent and/or serious situations an assessment may be made by an academic member of Staff Support staff in accordance with the Reasonable Adjustment Policy for Learning and Teaching.

12.3 Where an adjustment is agreed the Faculty/College/School shall be responsible for implementing the adjustment.

12.4 Where adjustments are required for an assessment (including in-person examinations,) students should wherever possible request these before the stipulated deadline to give sufficient time for the adjustments to be put in place.

Requests for adjustments to assessments (including in-person exams) made after the deadline cannot be guaranteed and will depend on what is reasonable and practicable to arrange within the time available.

In the case of in-person examinations alternative assessments should be considered in place of additional time where the examination duration, additional time and rest breaks (in total) exceed 4 hours 22 minutes. 

13. Suspension of Studies

13.1 Suspension of studies shall be considered in accordance with the JEI Suspension of Studies policy and the NJTU Graduate Student Status Management Regulations. Suspensions are usually permissible for a maximum of 1 year, with a maximum of 2 suspensions totalling 2 years allowable during the programme.

13.2 Students returning from suspension will be asked to apply to the JEI for resumption two weeks before the end of the semester. Students who suspended due to ill health must provide a ‘Certificate of Recovery’ to confirm they are fit to resume studies.

14. Late Submission of Work

14.1 SU and NJTU will set deadlines for submission of assessment and dates for any examinations. Students who fail to submit an assessment by the deadline or do not sit an examination without approval of extenuating circumstances will receive a mark of 0% for the assessment component concerned.

The JEI Student Handbook contains information relating to the scheduling, submission and late submission of assessment. 

14.2 It shall be presumed that, unless the JEI received details of extenuating circumstances and the request for an extension, that the student was not unduly affected in the preparation of the assessment in question. Full details of the extenuating circumstances criteria and procedure are available in the Policy on Extenuating Circumstances Affecting Assessment.

14.3 Applications for extension to the deadline for submission of the piece of directed independent learning can be considered by the JAB, up to the minimum period of candidature (normally three years). See Regulation 14 for information on extensions to candidature.

15. Extensions to Candidature

15.1 This is a full-time programme which will normally be completed within 3-5 years (see Regulation 7.2). The maximum period is designed to enable students, whose studies have been interrupted for whatever reason, to complete their degree. Students must aim to complete their programme by the deadlines given for the programme. A candidature shall lapse (and examination be thereby precluded) if the programme is not completed within the agreed JEI time limits.

15.2 Applications for extensions must be routed via the student's supervisor to the JAB, where the case will be considered administratively on behalf of the JEI and Swansea University for submission to the NJTU Graduate School. Time limits may be extended up to a maximum of 12 months, but in exceptional cases only. Requests that exceed this limit will not normally be considered. Requests for extension must be submitted by the JEI to the NJTU Graduate School within one calendar month before the submission/ expected end date to ensure that the student’s circumstances and work plan are up-to-date

All extension requests submitted for consideration must contain the following:

A clear statement from the student indicating how the circumstances have directly affected the student’s performance and ability to submit by the maximum candidature deadline.

A comprehensive statement of support from the student’s supervisor(s).

Information/independent evidence supporting the grounds for the request.

An evaluation of progress to date including a work plan, which has been agreed between the student and their supervisor, for completion of the dissertation within the timescale of the extension.

Applications submitted without the appropriate evidence and work plan will not be considered.

Decisions will be reported to SU Student Records and NJTU Graduate School.

15.4 Extensions of candidature for students who are resubmitting their piece of directed independent learning will not normally be permitted.

16. Specific Support/ Examination Provision

16.1 It shall be the student’s responsibility to inform the JEI of any extenuating circumstances which might require specific support or consideration for assessment.

Students shall be required to produce appropriate documentation in support of their circumstances, and all must be set out of the appropriate form and supported, where possible, by written evidence with a certified English translation provided in addition to any original documents which are not in English. Any request must be submitted to the JEI as soon as practically possible and certainly before the examination or assessment in question.

16.2 A student requiring adjustments to their studies as a result of disability, long-standing medical condition, wellbeing difficulty or Specific Learning Difficulty should discuss their requirements with the NJTU Graduate School. The student will be required to provide supporting documentary evidence to the Graduate School. The request for adjustments will not be implemented if supporting evidence is not provided. 

16.3 Where an adjustment is needed and is supported by medical evidence, this will be considered by the NJTU Graduate School, in liaison with the relevant JEI Examination Officer.  

16.4 A student requiring specific examination provision for their coursework or examinations should discuss their requirements with NJTU Graduate School.  The student will be required to provide supporting documentary evidence to the NJTU Graduate School.  The request for specific examination provision will not be implemented if appropriate supporting evidence is not provided. 

If appropriate, suitable arrangements shall be made by the JEI in consultation with the student.

17. Examining Boards and Appointment of Examiners

17.1 All examinations shall be conducted under the jurisdiction of the NJTU policy. The operation of the Examination Boards shall be conducted in accordance with the JEI Postgraduate Programme Regulations.

17.2 External examiners shall be nominated and appointed via the NJTSI Joint Academic Committee in accordance with the procedures detailed in the Swansea University Code of Practice for External Examiners and the Quality Assurance Framework: Bilingual and Second Language Delivery with Academic Partners. An external examiner will be appointed to each of the SU MSc programmes and a Chief External Examiner may be appointed to oversee all programmes in the portfolio. The programme External Examiner will also review the NJTU programmes.

18. Academic Appeals

18.1 Academic appeals shall be conducted in accordance with the Provisional Regulations on the Handling of Student Appeals of Nanjing Tech University for any modules which only contribute to the NJTU award. For all modules which contribute to both the SU and NJTU awards, academic appeals shall be conducted in accordance with the SU Accuracy of Published Marks or Academic Appeals procedures.

19. Academic Misconduct

19.1 Any allegation of unfair practice shall be considered in accordance with the Regulations on Disciplinary Actions of Nanjing Tech University for any modules which only contribute to the NJTU award. For all modules which contribute to both the SU and NJTU awards the SU Academic Misconduct policy and code of practice and procedures apply.

20. Assessment General Principles

20.1 Presentation of marks

The JEI Examination Boards shall be presented with all marks of assessment for modules taken so far during the academic year. 

All marks which have not yet been presented to the Joint Progression and Awards Board are considered provisional and therefore may be subject to change.

20.2 Presentation of Marks for Award

The full set of results for each student considered at the Joint Progression and Awards Board, shall be presented to the examiners. The result profile of the relevant students will normally include:

The results of the Taught modules.
The results of the piece(s) of directed independent learning.

20.3 Progression Decisions

Decisions on progression will be taken at the end of Year One and Year Two. The JEI shall make this information available to students in the Student Handbook/Guidance.

Award decisions for all full-time students will be taken at the end of the third year.

20.4 Anonymous Marking

Please refer to the Assessment, Marking and Feedback policy.

20.5 Disclosure of Identity

Please refer to the Assessment, Marking and Feedback policy.

20.6 Disclosure of Results

A distinction should be drawn between provisional marks and confirmed marks.

Please refer to the Assessment, Marking and Feedback policy.

20.7 Appeals Against award and/or progression Decisions

Students who fail to qualify to proceed may request that the decision of the Board be reviewed in accordance with the Appeals and/or Accuracy of Published Marks Procedure.

21. General Assessment Rules: JEI Flexible Taught Masters Degrees

21.1 The Pass mark for modules will be set at 50% (SU) and 60% (NJTU). Credits will be awarded to students who pass a module.

21.2 SU Awards:

Students who accumulate 180 SU credits may qualify for the award of an SU degree. The SU degree will have a classification of Distinction, Merit or Pass. The overall SU degree classification shall be calculated based on the mean average of core module marks, that are weighted according to their credit value, across the whole programme.

21.3 SU Awards:

Students, who achieve an overall average mark of not less than 60% (SU) and not more than 69.99% for the whole programme, shall be eligible for the award of a Masters degree with merit.

21.4 SU Awards:

Students, who achieve an overall average mark of not less than 70% (SU) for the whole programme, shall be eligible for the award of a Masters degree with distinction.   

21.5 NJTU Awards:

Students who accumulate 28 NJTU credits and all the elements of the training plan may qualify for the award of an NJTU degree. NJTU degrees are pass/fail so do not have a classification.

21.6 Decisions on progression will be taken at the end of each year of study.

Award decisions for all full-time students will be taken at the end of the third year.

21.7 All modules contributing to the SU award are ‘core’. Core modules must be passed with a mark of at least 50% (SU)/ 60% (NJTU) before a student can progress.

21.8 Students who are unsuccessful at the first attempt in any taught module may be permitted one further attempt to retake the module at the next opportunity, provided this can be achieved within the maximum period of candidature.

21.9 Students who are unsuccessful in the directed independent learning assessment(s) will normally be permitted one further opportunity to resubmit the assessment(s), provided this can be achieved within the time limit for the degree.

21.10 Students who are part-way through their programme, who retake a module but fail to pass and/or fail to submit their directed independent learning assessment by the submission deadline will not be eligible for a masters award but may, depending on the number of credits accumulated, be entitled to an exit qualification. 

Students who fail to submit their directed independent learning assessment by the deadline will fail that module. No resubmission will be given. Where there are one or more assessment components in respect of the directed independent learning module, students who have submitted at least one assessment component by the deadline and fail to obtain an overall module pass mark will normally be permitted to resubmit all failed components in accordance with the appropriate time limit.

21.11 Students who are at the end of their programme who retake a module but fail to pass will be required to withdraw from both institutions. Such students shall have no further opportunity to complete their programme of study and shall only be eligible to be considered for an exit qualification. Students who are required to withdraw from both institutions will be given no further attempts to redeem their modules and will not be eligible to transfer credits to another programme of study at SU or NJTU, and their studies will be terminated. Normally, such students shall not be re-admitted to that same programme of study, or to a cognate programme, without the approval of the JEI and/ or relevant Committee in the identified institution.

21.12 In exceptional circumstances, and in accordance with the Policy on Extenuating Circumstances Affecting Assessment, students who fail to redeem their module(s) during the retake opportunity because of extenuating circumstances or who fail the module at the first opportunity (i.e. as a deferral) may submit evidence of such circumstances to the JAC for consideration. At the discretion of the Joint Progression and Awards Board, such students may be permitted one further opportunity to be reassessed. The reassessment(s) shall normally take place at the next assessment(s) point for the modules concerned in the next academic year.

21.13 A student who is to be re-examined in set projects or other forms of course assessment shall not be permitted to re-submit modified versions of their original work, but shall be required to submit for assessment new work on different topics from those which originally failed to satisfy the examiners.

21.4 A student who is absent for the whole or part of a written examination (or who fails to submit set projects or coursework by the required date(s)) will be deemed to have failed the module(s) in question. It is recognised that some students will not be able to attend examinations or submit coursework during the assessment period due to illness or other extenuating circumstances. Please see the Policy on Extenuating Circumstances for more information. Applications for extenuating circumstances will be considered by the Joint Extenuating Circumstances Committee. Students granted deferrals will be required to sit the examinations at the next scheduled examination point for the module(s) concerned.   

21.5 The rules outlined in the Specific Rules section (Section 3) will normally influence the JEI Progression and Award Board in arriving at a progression decision for students. However, students must not expect as of right that they will be allowed to retake modules, or be allowed to continue. The Board may take into account other circumstances relating to the student’s case before taking any progression decision. 

21.6 Students who do not complete the programme and/or withdraw from SU and NJTU may, depending on the number of credits accumulated, be entitled to consideration for an exit qualification. 

21.7 Students who are unable to meet their submission deadline for the Directed independent Learning may apply for an extension to their submission deadline in accordance with the JEI regulations.

21.8 The JEI reserves the right to charge a re-examination fee in respect of the re-submission.

22. Specific Rules to be Applied at the Year One Board

22.1 Students who pass all specified modules in year 1 shall be allowed to continue with their studies.

22.2 Students who pass a minimum of 10 SU credits but fail one or more modules at the first attempt (to a maximum of 40 SU credits) in year 1 may be awarded one opportunity to retake the module(s) at the next available point. These students will be able to continue to year 2 before retaking the failed modules.

22.3 Students who fail more than 40 SU credits in year 1 shall be required to withdraw from the programme.

22.4 Students who fail any module at the retake attempt will not be eligible for a masters award and will be required to withdraw. Such students may be considered for an exit award.

22.5 All students who are required to withdraw from the JEI have the right of appeal in accordance with the Academic Appeals Procedure.

22.6 Students listed in 22.3 and 22.4 may apply to continue studying at the JEI, during which they must pay tuition as required, enjoy academic resources provided by Swansea University, and comply with the "Nanjing University of Technology Graduate Student Status Management Regulations" and the "Nanjing University of Technology Graduate Degree Application Implementation Measures (Trial)." Those who complete all training requirements set by Nanjing Tech University and meet the graduation standards will be granted graduation and awarded a master's degree by Nanjing Tech University.

23.   Specific Rules to be applied at the Year Two Board

23.1 Students who pass all specified modules in Year 2 shall be allowed to progress to year 3.

23.2 Students who pass a minimum of 10 SU credits but fail one or more modules (to a maximum of 40 SU credits) in year 2 may be awarded one opportunity to retake the module(s) at the next available point. These students will be able to continue to year 3 before retaking the failed modules.

23.3 Students who fail more than 40 SU credits in year 2 shall be required to withdraw from the programme.

23.4 Students who fail any module at the retake attempt will not be eligible for a masters award and will be required to withdraw. Such students may be considered for an exit award.

23.5 In exceptional circumstances, and in accordance with the Policy on Extenuating Circumstances, students who fail module(s) because of extenuating circumstances may submit evidence of such circumstances to the JEI for consideration by the Joint academic Committee. At the discretion of the Joint Progression and Awards Board, such students may be permitted one further opportunity to be reassessed.

23.6 All students who are required to withdraw from the JEI have the right of appeal in accordance with the Appeals Procedure.

23.7 Students listed in 23.3 and 23.4 may apply to continue studying at the JEI, during which they must pay tuition as required, enjoy academic resources provided by Swansea University, and comply with the "Nanjing University of Technology Graduate Student Status Management Regulations" and the "Nanjing University of Technology Graduate Degree Application Implementation Measures (Trial)." Those who complete all training requirements set by Nanjing Tech University and meet the graduation standards will be granted graduation and awarded a master's degree by Nanjing Tech University.

24. Rules for Awarding Flexible Taught Masters Degrees, to be applied at the Year Three Board.

24.1 Specific Rules for awarding credit at the end of the programme.

24.1.1 SU Awards:

Students who accumulate 180 SU credits may qualify for the award of an SU degree and appropriate classification, in accordance with Regulation 21.2-21.4.

24.1.2 NJTU Awards:

Students who accumulate 28 NJTU credits and meet all criteria listed in Regulation 21.5 may qualify for the award of an NJTU degree.

24.1.3 Students who fail to submit their directed independent learning assessment or approved equivalent by the deadline will not be eligible for a Masters award but may be considered for an exit award. No resubmission opportunity will be permitted.

Where there are one or more assessment components in respect of the directed independent learning module, students who have submitted at least one assessment component by the deadline and fail to obtain an overall module pass mark, will normally be permitted to resubmit all failed components in accordance with the appropriate time limit.

24.1.4 Students who fail the directed independent learning or approved equivalent and who are permitted to resubmit will be required to resubmit within 12 months of the official publication of results.

24.1.5 Students who do not pass all modules will fail to qualify for the award but may be considered for an appropriate exit award (see Regulation 25.1).

24.1.6 All students who are required to withdraw from the JEI have the right of appeal in accordance with the Academic Appeals Procedure.

25. Exit Qualifications

25.1 A student who is admitted to a Flexible Masters programme but is subsequently unable, or is not permitted, to progress to completion may, depending upon the number of credits attained at the time of exit qualify for one of the following awards of Swansea University:

Postgraduate Certificate	passed 60 credits
Postgraduate Certificate with Merit	passed 60 credits (with SU mark of 50% or more) attained an overall average mark of not less than 60% and not more than 69.99% (SU)
Postgraduate Certificate with Distinction	passed 60 credits (with SU mark of 50% or more) attained an overall average mark of 70% (SU) or higher
Postgraduate Diploma	passed 120 credits
Postgraduate Diploma with Merit	passed 120 credits attained an overall average mark of not less than 60% and not more than 69.99% (SU)
Postgraduate Diploma with Distinction	passed 120 credits attained an overall average mark of 70% (SU) or higher

25.2 Eligible students may be awarded one of the following exit awards from NJTU:

Study Certificate

Less than one year of the programme completed.

Not all year 1 taught modules passed.

Certificate of Attendance

At least one year of the programme completed.

All year 1 taught modules passed

Certificate of Completion

All elements of the training plan completed except the directed independent learning.

26.NJTSI Progression and Award Boards

26.1 The following Examination Boards shall meet to assess students:

Mode of Study	Joint Progression and Awards Board
Full time	Year 1 – Semester 1& 2
	Year 2 – Semester 1& 2
	Year 3 – Semester 2

26.2 Further details on the constitution, roles and responsibilities of Examination Boards are contained in Section 8 of these regulations.

27. Structure of Examination Boards  27.1-27.3

27.1 The JEI operates an assessment system for all its programmes, in collaboration with SU and NJTU who award the qualifications.  The system is intended to deal with progression issues at all levels and with the awarding of qualifications. 

27.2 An Outline of the Committee Structure

The model below represents the JEI’s structure for managing student progression and awards. 

A flow chart showing the structure of the exam board

27.3 Examination Boards

27.3.1 The Joint Management Board and its subsidiary, the Joint Academic Board, has overall responsibility to ensure that both institutions provide overall module marks (to include component marks for each element of assessment) for each student studying its modules in an accurate and timely manner and to ensure that all marks are moderated in accordance with the Assessment, Marking and Feedback policy.

Initially, and following strict marking conventions, provisional marks for continuous assessment and examinations shall be determined and recorded on the assessment at both institutions. A sample of the assessments submitted for the core modules will be considered by the programme External Examiner, who will review the moderation of the assessments in addition to the marks awarded. These marks will give the overall module mark, to be ratified at the NJTSI Progression and Award Board.

The provisional marks and decisions from the JEI Joint Progression and Awards Board will then be submitted to the overarching Swansea University Progression and Awards Board and NJTU Graduate School which will confirm the progression and award decisions.

Evidence of extenuating circumstances relating to individual students will be considered as part of any Extenuating Circumstances requests and the decisions will be reported to the JEI Joint Examination Board(s).

27.3.2 Membership of JEI Joint Examination Boards and JEI Joint Progression and Awards Board 

Membership will include representation from both institutions:

Chair: Dean (or nominee). 

Chief External Examiner: One External Examiner to act as Chief External to sign the official results endorsement form. 

Internal Examiner: Programme Director and Deputy Programme Director. Members of the academic teaching delivery team from SU and NJTU   

External Reps: Cross-representation from both institutions in the JEI.  

Secretary: To be determined by Chair. 

 27.3.3 JEI Joint Examination Boards -Terms of Reference 

To ensure that the rules and regulations relating to progression are applied consistently and those standards are maintained.

To confirm marks for modules taught by SU and NJTU within the JEI.

To receive recommendations on extenuating circumstances and finalise marks.

To determine progression issues, with reference to the rules and regulations, and to award supplementary assessments;

In the case of students at the end of their programme of study;

To make recommendations on provisional awards for degrees/certificates/diplomas and other qualifications to the JEI Joint Progression and Award Boards.

To make recommendations on exit qualifications.

To nominate representatives to attend, on behalf of the subject, the JEI Joint Progression and Awards Board.

To draw up subject level pass lists/result endorsement forms and ensure that these are signed by the Chief External Examiner.

27. Structure of Examination Boards  27.4-27.5

27.4 JEI Joint Progression and Awards Board

27.4.1 The Joint Progression and Award Board will act under the authority delegated to it by the JEI Joint Academic Committee and oversee the JEI’s assessment process and confirm marks and all progression and award decisions for the Partnership. In addition, the Board will be responsible for monitoring the quality and standards of awards made in the JEI’s name. All awards recommended by an Examining Board must be conferred by the Joint Award and Progression Board before Certificates and Transcripts can be issued.

27.4.2 JEI Joint Progression and Awards Board – Terms of reference 

To monitor and ensure adherence to the requirements of the JEI’s academic and assessment regulations by progression and award boards;

To approve recommendations on the awarding of degrees and other qualifications by the JEI Joint examination boards;

To report to the JAB on recommendations for awards bestowed by SU and NJTU for the JEI;

To approve recommendations from JEI Joint examination boards on progression issues with reference to the assessment regulations;

To receive and consider reports from all relevant boards;

To determine cases where a procedural irregularity has occurred during the proceedings of progression and award boards and where a recommendation has been made contrary to Regulations;

To make recommendations on the revocation of awards;

To review, on an annual basis, issues relating to the assessment process;

To monitor and report on key performance indicators in relation to assessment outcomes;

To make recommendations on the bestowing of aegrotat and posthumous awards;

To consider External Examiners’ reports and ensure appropriate responses are made and any issues of concern are reported to the JAC and subsequently the SU Regulations, Quality and Standards Board.

27.5 Issues Requiring Approval by SU Senate 

27.5.1 Recommendation on the revocation of an award 

At an Exam Board every effort shall be made to reach a consensus.  If a disagreement arises between the External Examiner and the relevant Examining Board regarding issues of standards, the views of the External Examiner shall be noted in the minutes of the Board and in the external examiners’ report.  The External Examiner may appeal, in exceptional circumstances, to the SU Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education) or another Pro Vice-Chancellor (where the PVC (Education) is unavailable or is in conflict of interest).  The decision of the Pro Vice-Chancellor shall be final. 

When the decision of an External Examiner gives rise to a case of dispute between the External Examiner(s) and internal examiners it is within the power of the SU Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education) to decide on the matter, at their discretion, or to appoint another External Examiner to provide an independent opinion.  The Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education) may take into account any written reports submitted by members of the Examining Board.  

 In choosing a second External Examiner the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) may also take into account, but need not be bound by, the nomination (if any) of an Examining Board for a second External Examiner.  A decision on whether or not to reconvene the Examining Board shall be at the discretion of this second External Examiner whose decision on this matter shall be final. 

27.5.2 Disputes between the JEI Examination Board and the JEI Joint Progression and Awards Board 

Decisions made by the JEI Joint Progression and Awards Board or by the Chair/Deputy Chair of that Board shall normally be made in accordance with the regulations and therefore, such decisions will normally be final. In exceptional circumstance where there is a disagreement between the JEI Joint Examination Board and the JEI Joint Progression and Awards Board or the Chair/Deputy Chair of that Board with regards to the application of the regulations, the Chair of the JEI Joint Examination Board may appeal to the SU Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education), who is responsible for Standards and Quality. The decision of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education) shall be final.  

28. Admission to Degrees

28.1 Students who have qualified for their SU awards shall be admitted to their degrees in absentia, by decree of the Vice-Chancellor of Swansea University. Students shall be invited to an awards ceremony in NJTU at a later date to celebrate their award.

29. Aegrotat Awards

29.1 An Aegrotat Award may be conferred upon a student on the presumption that a student who is unable to continue their studies would have satisfied the standard required for the award had they been able to continue.

29.2 The award of an Aegrotat Degree shall be made in accordance with SU Aegrotat Degree Regulations.

30. Posthumous Awards

30.1 A posthumous qualification may be awarded to a deceased student who has completed sufficient study for the award. The award of a posthumous degree shall be made in accordance with the SU Posthumous Degree Regulations.

JEI Directed Independent Learning

The following Postgraduate Specific Assessment Regulations relate to the postgraduate masters (MSc) and Master of Engineering programmes jointly offered by Swansea University (SU) and Nanjing Tech University (NJTU) as partners in the Joint Education Institute (JEI). Please note that with regard to the NJTU degree, the following should be considered in conjunction with the specific NJTU Master’s Thesis requirement,

31. 80 credits directed independent learning

31.1 Each candidature shall be completed by the presentation of a piece or pieces of directed independent learning and the approval of such work by the examiners.

32. Supervision of directed independent learning

32.1 For each candidature, the JEI shall approve one supervisor. The supervisor shall be an NJTU staff member, based in NJTU.

32.2 Students shall be supervised in accordance with the Regulation for Postgraduate Supervision at NJTU.

33. Responsibilities of the JEI

33.1 Proposals to be feasible in terms of the timescale and resources available and to be allocated to supervisors with suitable expertise.

33.2 Supervisors to be allowed sufficient time to discharge their duties, particularly where the cohort is large.

33.3 The guidance on postgraduate education from the Chinese Mistry of Education to be followed, when appropriate, in respect of facilities to be made available (study space, library, appropriate research environment, etc.)

33.4 Written guidelines to be issued with regard to attendance, frameworks for meetings and general expectations, in accordance with the Regulation for Postgraduate Supervision at NJTU.

33.5 The implementation of all such guidelines to be monitored on a regular basis.

33.6 Where students require additional help with language skills, this advice to be provided as a service separate from the duties of the supervisor.

33.7 A mechanism to be in place whereby a student is able to request a change of supervisor, and whereby an alternative member of staff is made available should any supervisor be absent for a prolonged period of time.

33.8 The number of students allocated to a supervisor to be such that he/she will have the capacity to fulfil the responsibilities noted in Section 34.

34. Responsibilities of the Supervisor

34.1 Advice and guidance to be provided to the student with the aim of facilitating the production of a piece of work of the requisite standard for a Taught Masters degree.

34.2 The proposal to be within the supervisor's field of expertise, the selected topic to be defined in consultation with the student and approved by the JEI.

34.3 The proposal to be suitable for completion within the allotted time span.

34.4 A timetable for the submission of work to be agreed in accordance with the JEI.

34.5 Regular meetings (a minimum of three meetings) to be held in accordance with the Regulation for Postgraduate Supervision at NJTU.

34.6 Agree with the student a record of all such formal meetings, including dates, action agreed, and deadlines set. The record shall be maintained by the student and submitted to the JEI on submission of the work.

34.7 Work to be returned according to specified deadlines and accompanied by constructive comments.

34.8 A feedback session will be given to any student who fails and is permitted by the Joint Progression and Awards Board to resubmit their work.

35. Responsibilities of the Student

35.1 The work produced to be first and foremost the student's own work, albeit achieved with benefit of advice and guidance from the supervisor.

35.2 Students are expected to be in attendance at NJTU during the whole programme.

35.3 A timetable for the submission of work to be agreed in accordance with the supervisors.

35.4 Regular meetings (a minimum of three meetings) to be attended in accordance with the Regulation for Postgraduate Supervision at NJTU.

35.5 A careful record to be maintained, agreed between NJTU and SU supervisors and student, of all formal meetings, including dates, action agreed and deadlines set. In accordance with the Regulation for Postgraduate Supervision at NJTU, a copy of this record should be submitted to the JEI when the work is submitted.

35.6 Supervisors to be contacted should additional meetings be considered necessary.

36.7 Work to be completed within the agreed framework, with any problems relating to late (or unsatisfactory) submission to be brought to the supervisor's attention in writing as soon as possible.

36. Examination of directed independent learning

36.1 For every Postgraduate Taught Masters’ Joint Examining Board there shall be a Chair who shall be responsible for ensuring that the correct administrative procedures for the submission and examination of the work are carried out.

36.2 All work shall be marked by two internal members of staff, one of whom should normally be the supervisor for that particular student. However, in certain circumstances it may not be appropriate for the Supervisor to act as marker.

36.3 The role of the External Examiner is specified in Swansea University's Code of Practice for External Examining.

36.4 However, if it is impossible to allocate two internal markers then the JEI should pay an external marker to act in the capacity as the second marker and the External Examiner should be asked to oversee that moderation has occurred.

36.5 Although it is customary for the same external examiner to examine a student for the programme, an independent examiner may be appointed to examine the work where specialist knowledge or expertise is required.

36.6 The JEI may opt to use sampling regulations if the cohort is greater than 10. The sampling regulations are as follows:

At least 10% of the total number of pieces of work (minimum of 5) including at least one from each class (Pass, Merit, Distinction, where appropriate). In addition, all failed pieces of work must be sent to the External Examiner.
The marks shall be ratified at the Joint Progression and Award Boards (JEI and University Progression and Awards Board).
For dealing with disputes or disagreements, see the SU Code of Practice for External Examining.

37. Submission of directed independent learning

37.1 The directed independent learning must be submitted in accordance with the JEI’s requirements.

37.2 Detailed instructions on the presentation of work shall be available to students in the student handbook/guidance.

37.3 Submission of directed independent learning shall be defined as submission of a piece or pieces of work submitted in accordance with the requirements specified under submission of directed independent learning detailed in your Student Guidance and should also meet the requirements (format, word limits, etc.) specified by the JEI. The JEI shall have the discretion to determine whether a submission fails to meet these requirements.

37.4 Dates for submission of the piece or pieces of independent directed learning shall normally be in Year 3 of the programme. The deadline for submission will be detailed in the student handbook.

37.5 Students who fail to submit their directed independent learning by the deadline will be required to withdraw from the programme. If eligible, they may be considered for an exit award from SU and/or NJTU.

37.6 The maximum period of candidature for these programmes is five years. The maximum period is designed to enable students whose studies have been interrupted for whatever reason to complete their degree. Students must aim to complete their programme by the deadlines as given in General Regulations for JEI Postgraduate Programmes. A candidature shall lapse (and examination be thereby precluded) if the programme is not completed within the time limits outlined in General Regulations for JEI Postgraduate Programmes.

38. Resubmission

38.1 Resubmission of the Directed Independent Learning is not permitted outside of the agreed deadline without approved extenuating circumstances. Students who are permitted to resubmit must do so within the following time limits

Mode of Study	Time limit
FULL TIME	Normally 12 months (after the official University publication of results)

38.2 A fee may be payable to the JEI for the re-examination.

38.3 Ordinarily, where students receive feedback during their initial and draft submission deadlines, according to the NJTU Policy, this should include written feedback on the reasons for failure immediately following confirmation of the result NJTU. Feedback will reflect all comments from the Examiners (Internal and External) and the student will be informed of the necessary changes required.

38.4 Students re-submitting are only permitted to make minor changes to the title of their work with the permission of their Supervisor. Such changes should not require any further original research.

38.5 Students resubmitting their work beyond the original deadline, shall be considered as external students. Such students will not normally be expected to be in attendance at NJTU during the resubmission period.

39. Publication of Work

39.1 A student shall be at liberty to publish the whole or part of the work produced during their period of registration with SU and NJTU, prior to its submission as a whole, or as part, provided that in the published work it is nowhere stated that it is in consideration for a higher degree. Such published work may later be incorporated in the piece of directed independent learning submitted for examination.

40. Bar on Access

40.1 Not with standing the provisions in the regulations relating to the availability of directed independent learning, the SU and/or NJTU may be permitted, on a special recommendation approved by the JEI, to place a bar on photocopying and/or access to a student's work for a period of up to five years. It shall be the responsibility of the student's supervisor to make an application to the JEI as soon as is reasonably practicable. This bar would also apply to members of both universities.

40.2 The summary and title shall be freely available.

40.3 Any recommendation for a bar on access must be made to the JEI after consideration of an application by a student's supervisor. It shall be the responsibility of the supervisor to make the application as soon as is reasonably practicable. The recommendation must include a statement of the grounds on which the request is being made. Most requests of this nature are made on the grounds of the commercial sensitivity of the research, which may have been partially sponsored by a commercial or industrial organisation.

40.4 When a bar on access has been granted, the student’s supervisor will be notified. In the case of work which is deemed to be of relevance to Wales, the SU Faculty shall inform the librarian of the National Library of Wales that the work is to be withheld from access for a specified period.

40.5 Although the bar shall be regarded as operative as soon as the work is submitted, the period approved shall be calculated from the date on which the student is formally notified by the JEI that they have qualified for a degree.

40.6 On submission, a student shall be required to incorporate a signed statement within the work to indicate either:

that the work, if successful, may be made available for inter-library loan or photocopying (subject to the law of copyright), and that the title and summary may be made available to outside organisations; or
that the work, if successful, may be made so available after expiry of a bar.

41. Disposal of directed independent learning following Examination

41.1 The storage and disposal of Directed Independent Learning materials shall comply with NJTU policies. SU faculty are not required to retain copies of such materials.