DMU Regulations

These regulations apply to students enrolled on the programme of study leading to the double degree award of LLB Law at DMU and LLB Maritime Law at (SU).

The general management of the programme of study shall be the responsibility of the Joint Management Board (JMB) and its subsidiary, the Joint Academic Board (JAB), established in accordance with the Memorandum of Agreement between SU and DMU. The day-to-day management of the programme shall be the responsibility of the Programme Director (DMU) and Deputy Programme Director (SU).

The programme consists of two phases:

a. Year 1 is equivalent to a Foundation Year (FHEQ 3) in the United Kingdom;

b. Years 2-4 are equivalent to Years 1-3 of an LLB degree (FHEQ 4-6) in the United Kingdom.

• Accumulate’ or ‘Attain’: To gain credit (pass modules). 
• Cap on marks (marks are capped): The module mark on resit is “capped” at the minimum pass mark (40% UK - 60% DMU) for FHEQ levels 3, 4, 5 and 6.
• Compulsory Modules: Compulsory modules are those which must be pursued by a student.
• Compulsory – General: Modules that are required by the Chinese Ministry of Education but do not count towards the SU award.
• Compulsory - Major: Modules prescribed as constituting the core legal knowledge for the Programme that count towards the SU and DMU award.
• Core module: Must be passed in order for a student to be considered eligible for an LLB award at both SU and DMU. One resit attempt is permitted.
• Credit: A measure of load that is related to the contact hours in both the Chinese and UK system.
• Dissertation: The directed independent learning carried out in the final year.
• English Language: Module(s) used to assess English Language proficiency.
• 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.
• General Option: To supplement the compulsory modules, students will normally be expected to pursue optional modules that constitute core knowledge, but students select a required number of credits from a prescribed list of options in the specialist subject area(s). [Students cannot redeem failure in optional modules via resit.  Instead, students are required to retake failed options alongside their next level of study (proceed and trail). Students can opt to retake the failed module(s) or swap it for alternative optional module within the requirements of the overall programme, to the same credit value as the failed module(s) General Option modules do not count towards the SU award.
• Handbook: A programme handbook shall be made available to each candidate at or before the commencement of studies.
• Jie Ye Zhengshu: A certificate awarded by DMU to students who have taken all modules on the programme but failed modules in the final year and therefore do not qualify for the intended award. Students are permitted one further attempt to redeem failure and subsequently be eligible for award provided that it is taken the following academic year and ultimately falls within the overall period of candidature. If successful, the student will relinquish the Jie Ye Zhengshu and replace with the award of LLB.
• Matriculation: The formal admission of a candidate to the programme leading to an award from both SU and DMU. 
• Required Option: Modules that constitute core knowledge, but students select a required number of credits from a specified list. Students can redeem failure in optional modules via resit provided that the overall module mark, at the first attempt, is no less than 40 (DMU scale). Required Option modules count towards the SU and DMU award.
• Retake of Level: Where a student fails to meet the requirements to progress to the next level of study and must retake the level, in its entirety, the following academic year, including attending lectures and seminars. Marks for retake of the level are not capped. Where students retake the level they are expected to incur the cost of an additional year of tuition fees may opt to withdraw from the programme rather than retake the level but cannot transfer to an alternate programme at either institution. Students are permitted one opportunity to retake each level of study within the programme. 
• Retake of Module: Where a student fails to pass a module at the resit attempt (due to academic failure or absence) or attains a mark less than 40 (DMU scale) and is therefore not eligible for resit,  but has attained sufficient credit to be eligible to progress to the next level of study, the student MUST retake the failed module(s) in addition to their diet of modules for the next level. Retake of a module includes attending lectures and seminars and resubmission of all associated assessment. In the event of a conflict between a ‘retake module’ and a ‘first take module’ the latter takes precedence. The overall module mark for a ‘retake’ module will not be capped at the pass rate. Students will be charged on a pro-rota basis for the retake of modules, unless there are certified extenuating circumstances.
• Resit: Where a student may attempt the failed module(s) again, at the next available opportunity, during the prescribed supplementary period (week 1 of the following semester), without attending lectures and seminars again. Students are permitted 1 resit attempt within the academic year provided that the overall module mark, at the first attempt, is no less than 40 (DMU scale). Resit marks are capped at the pass mark (DMU 60% GPA 1.0 SU 40%) and apply to levels 3-6 on the programme. Resit attempts will be recorded as ‘re-sit’ on the DMU transcript with the capped mark. There is no additional charge to resit a module. Resit assessment elements shall be weighted 100% of the overall module mark irrespective of the initial assessment weightings. The option to resit a module applies to Compulsory General, Compulsory Major and Required Option modules. Failure in General Optional modules can only be redeemed via retake of the module. The schedule for re-sit exams shall be arranged by the DMU Academic Affairs Office, and the examinations will normally be held 3 days before the start or in the first week of the next academic term.
• Take: The registration of an attempt to ‘take’ a module. First take, second take.
• The programme: Double Degree LLB Law (DMU) and LLB Maritime Law (SU) – collaboration between SU and DMU.
• Yi Ye Zhengshu: A certificate of incompletion awarded by DMU for students on the programme for one year or more who decide to withdraw or fail to successfully complete their studies.  In such circumstances SU would also award an exit qualification if the candidate were eligible.  

1.1

Candidates are admitted to the programme in accordance with the specific programme entry requirements and requirements governing matriculation for both SU and DMU.  

1.2

Matriculation is the formal admission of a candidate to the programme leading to an award from both SU and DMU. 

1.3

Candidates must provide evidence to the DMU Admissions Office of their qualifications in the form of original certificates or official academic transcripts confirming their qualification(s) from the awarding institution or other body.

1.4

Candidates will be deemed ineligible to enrol where they do not meet the requirements for matriculation. Where the candidate is deemed ineligible to enrol and/or fails to enrol within the prescribed enrolment period, this will result in the candidate’s candidature lapsing and the withdrawal of the candidate from the programme. In exceptional circumstances candidates may be considered for an alternative academic programme at DMU only, at the discretion of JMB.

1.5

Candidates who secure admission to the programme on the basis of qualifications, documents or statements that are subsequently found to be false shall have their candidature withdrawn, and shall accordingly cease to be a student of SU and DMU.

2.1 

All candidates must enrol as a student of both Swansea University (SU) and Dalian Maritime University (DMU) and pay the appropriate tuition fees prescribed for the programme to the University where the student will be based for the academic year in question. 

2.2 

Candidates registered on the programme shall be full time and may not concurrently be enrolled on another degree programme leading to the award of a qualification of this nature or another University outside of SU or DMU.  

2.3 

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

2.4

All candidates shall be expected to enrol within the prescribed period published annually.

2.5  

In order to enrol, candidates are required to provide evidence of entitlement to study in accordance with:

• The specific programme requirements;
• Regulations governing matriculation;
• The laws governing study in both the United Kingdom (Wales) and PR China;
• Fitness to return to study regulations.

2.6 

Where the candidate does not provide satisfactory evidence of entitlement to study in accordance with Regulation 2.5 above and by the deadline stipulated by DMU Admissions, the candidate will be deemed ineligible to enrol.

2.7

All candidates are expected to enrol at both SU and DMU in order to be recognised as a student at both institutions. All candidates shall enrol in accordance with the enrolment procedures published for each institution and within the prescribed enrolment period.

2.8

Candidates are required to enrol within the prescribed enrolment period:

• If enrolling for the first time with the University;
• If enrolling for the first time on the  double degree LLB Law (DMU) /LLB Maritime Law (SU);
• If progressing to the next level of study/the next year of study;
• If the University is expecting a fee to be paid in accordance with the University’s regulations governing student finance and fees

2.9 

In order to enrol candidates are required to provide evidence of entitlement to study as prescribed by each Institution in accordance with:

• The specific programme requirements;
• The University’s regulations governing matriculation;
• The relevant laws governing study in both the UK (Wales) and PR China;
• Fitness to return to study regulations.

2.10 

Where the candidate does not provide satisfactory evidence of entitlement to study in accordance with Regulation 2.9 above and by the deadline stipulated by either institution, the candidate will be deemed ineligible to enrol.

2.11

Where the candidate fails to enrol within a prescribed enrolment period, this will result in the candidate’s candidature lapsing and the withdrawal for non-enrolment of the candidate from both SU and DMU.

2.12 

By completing the enrolment process, students shall confirm that they will abide by the relevant regulations set by both institutions, SU and DMU, reflecting their dual enrolment status. 

3.1

The minimum period of candidature shall be four academic years.

The period of study shall normally be continuous.

The maximum period of candidature shall be six academic years.

Periods of study shall normally include any periods of suspension.

3.2 Composition of the Programme of Study

1. The programme of study will consist of a list of modules to the value of 480 SU credits, published by the Joint Management Board and approved by the Chinese Ministry of Education.
2. The list of modules will show the number of credits for each institution allocated to each module.

3.3 Modules within the Programme

A module is a discrete educational component of a programme. This programme shall consist of modules that are multiples of 5 credit points.

In addition:

• Each module is assigned a unique reference for each Institution (LAD prefix indicates DMU and LAS prefix indicates SU);
• Each module is assigned to a level of study which reflects the academic standard of a module and its learning outcomes;
• Each module shall also be assigned European Credit Transfer System Credits (5 ECTS credits is approximately equivalent to 10 Swansea University credits);

Modules may be grouped into the following categories:

• Lecture based;
• Practical based;
• Dissertation based;or
• An appropriate combination of these categories (composite module).

3.4 Mode of Study

The programme is available as full-time mode of attendance only. Full-time candidates are normally expected to pursue modules, the total credit weighting of which will be 120 credit points (SU) in one academic year.

3.5 Levels of Study

The levels of study applicable to the programme are indicated below. Each level indicates a particular stage within the programme of study and relates to the year of study in which that level might be pursued.

3.6 Transfer of Programmes            

Students on the programme shall not normally be permitted to transfer to an alternative programmes at either institution. 

Students at DMU may apply to transfer on to the programme, but this would be at the discretion of the Programme Director/Deputy Programme Director and on the condition that the student meets entry requirements and joins the programme at the beginning of Level 3/Year 1 (direct entry to L4/Year 2 will not be permitted).

4.1

Both SU and DMU expect students to adhere to the engagement requirements as outlined in the following engagement statement: 

Joint Engagement Statement

It is expected by both SU and DMU that all enrolled students should engage with any scheduled face-to-face or virtual learning session associated with each module which they have elected to pursue for the full duration of the programme inclusive of all scheduled weeks within terms and semesters.

A scheduled learning session includes but is not limited to lectures, seminars, workshops, study groups, practical classes, example classes, tutorials, examinations, supervisory meetings, field trips or other activities which students are expected to engage with.

Both SU and DMU require students to adhere to any additional programme requirements identified in the programme handbook.

Both SU and DMU require students to comply with any additional engagement monitoring requirements which may be put in place to enable the Universities to comply with external agencies (e.g. government and funding agencies).

4.2 Absence of Students

Students have a duty to inform their School of any absences from the University in accordance with the principles in the joint Student Charter. 

Students who are absent from an examination may submit to their School a request for consideration of extenuating circumstances in accordance with the Joint Policy on Extenuating Circumstances.

4.3 Unsatisfactory Engagement

“Unsatisfactory engagement” includes, but is not exclusively confined to:

• Repeated or sustained failure to engage with face-to-face or virtual scheduled learning sessions and online learning resources without providing a satisfactory reason and/or

• Failure to attend a scheduled interview with a member of academic/professional service staff, particularly where such an interview is concerned with non-engagement and/or academic progress.

Students whose engagement is deemed to be unsatisfactory shall be considered in accordance with the Joint Engagement Monitoring Policy.

4.4 Joint Engagement Monitoring Policy

Please see Joint Engagement Monitoring Policy.

Students who receive a notice of withdrawal from both institutions, in accordance with the Joint Engagement Monitoring Policy, may request a final review of this decision. Please see the Final Review Procedure. 

6.1

Both SU and DMU recognise that students may feel compelled for various reasons to interrupt their studies during/over an academic session. In such instances candidates may request a suspension of their studies Suspension of Studies. It should be noted that students do not have a right to suspend their studies; rather suspensions must be requested and approved by the Joint Academic Board acting for both Institutions.

Students are only permitted to request to suspend their studies during their maximum period of candidature. Requests which fall outside this period should be dealt with through a request for an extension of candidature.

6.2 Applications for Suspension

Students who request to suspend studies shall be required to make an application to the Joint Academic Board (JAB) via the Programme Director (DMU)/Deputy Programme Director (SU). Such applications shall include the grounds for the request and evidence to support the case. English translations much be provided in addition to any original evidence submitted in another language. Normally, students should attend for interview with a relevant member of staff to receive support and for advice. If the Programme Director (DMU)/Deputy Programme Director (SU) supports the student’s request, then they will put forward a recommendation to the Joint Academic Board for consideration. If approved the change in student circumstances must be reported and records updated at both institutions within an agreed timeframe. 

The grounds on which a student can request a suspension shall be as follows:

• Health. Note: Except in cases of serious health conditions, supported by medical evidence, the Joint Academic Board shall be permitted to refuse a request for suspension.
• Exceptional personal circumstances
• Financial
• Military Service

In cases where a student intends to transfer programme in the following academic session.

Students requesting a suspension of studies are advised to do so before the start of the proceeding semester, term or academic year wherever possible but can submit an application during the academic year with the support of the Programme Director/Deputy Programme Director. Applications to suspend studies immediately prior to the assessment period shall not normally be permitted unless it is for health or other compelling reasons.

Students will be expected to include in their application the date of their expected return.

Students will normally be expected to resume their studies at the beginning of the next full semester (or academic year) and re-start the semester/year/level of study as appropriate. Students will automatically forfeit credit for any modules that were partially completed at the point of suspension but may complete outstanding resits during the supplementary period, if circumstances permit.

A request to retain existing credit must be supported by the Programme Director/Deputy Programme Director. Only existing credit for completed modules may be retained. Partial marks will be forfeited. In some cases, e.g. students who suspend studies after the successful completion of a term, it may be considered more appropriate for students to resume their studies at the beginning of the next term. In such cases students are required to have provisionally passed all modules allocated to the term and will be permitted to retain the credit gained.

Please note that this option will not be available to students who are studying modules that span the full academic year.

Approved requests for suspension of studies shall be referred by the JAB to those responsible for the maintenance of student records at each institution to update accordingly. 

6.2 Required to Suspend

In accordance with overarching policy and regulation from both institutions (see Suspension of Studies) a student on the JEP may be required or advised by the JAB (via the Programme Director/Deputy Programme Director) to suspend their studies as follows: 

i) In cases of academic appeals where the appeal board may require a student to suspend studies where it is deemed that advising a student to withdraw is inappropriate.

ii) In serious disciplinary cases, candidates may be required to suspend their studies pending further investigations.

iii) In cases of a custodial sentence a student is likely to be required to suspend studies during the sentence. A satisfactory outcome of a risk assessment would normally be required before the student may resume their studies.

iv) In cases where a tuition fee debt to SU or DMU exists, and the student fails to clear the debt, following a second warning from the relevant University, a student will be required to suspend studies.

v) As part of an outcome/penalty imposed by a University Committee of Enquiry where fitness to practice, academic misconduct or a disciplinary offence has been substantiated, a student may be advised or required to suspend studies.

A student may also be required to suspend studies where either institution deems that on health grounds it is not appropriate for a student to continue with their studies, whether in exercising its duty of care to others or where it is deemed not to be in the interest of the particular student. 

7.1

Where a student has suspended their studies for health reasons, the student must provide to the JAB, as a condition of their re-enrolment, written confirmation from their treating medical practitioner that they are fit to resume their study and/or such other evidence which is requested by the Programme Director/Deputy Programme Director acting on behalf of the Joint Academic Board. English translations must be provided in addition to any original evidence submitted in another language. 

7.2

Students returning from suspension should ensure that they are able to resume their studies and:

• Where they suspended due to personal circumstances, the student should ensure that the personal circumstances are no longer affecting their studies;
• Where they suspended due to financial concerns, the student should ensure that they have met, and can continue to meet, their financial obligations. 

7.3

The maximum period of candidature shall not be automatically extended for students who suspend studies, with the exception of students who suspend for military service (where the candidature period is effectively paused until their return). Students may extend their request to suspend studies provided that they can complete their programme of study within the maximum candidature. Students who require an extension to the maximum period of candidature shall apply under the ‘Extension of Candidature’ regulations using the process outlined in the Programme Handbook.

7.4

Where students fail to return to their studies by the date specified and where no response is received to any communication from SU or DMU by the prescribed deadline, then the JAB shall assume that the student has withdrawn. The student shall be informed in writing by both institutions that their candidature has been withdrawn, and their record amended accordingly. The student shall have the right to appeal against the decision in accordance with the Academic Appeals Procedure.

8.1

SU and DMU shall set deadlines for the submission of assessment. Candidates who fail to submit assessment by the deadline shall be subject to the zero penalty for the late submission of work as detailed in the Programme Handbook.

8.2

It shall be presumed that, unless the School received details of extenuating circumstances and a request for an extension, that the student was not unduly affected in the preparation of the assessment in question.

The degree programme time limits (maximum period of candidature – six years), may be extended, but in exceptional cases only and in accordance with the following criteria:

• Normally, extensions will be granted only on compassionate grounds, or in cases of illness and serious domestic difficulties which can be demonstrated to have adversely affected the candidate. A full and reasoned case, supported by appropriate medical or other independent evidence, must be made by the Programme Director/Deputy Programme Director in consultation with the student (or on behalf of) for consideration by the Joint Academic Board. English translations must be provided in addition to any original evidence submitted in another language. Details of how to apply for students will be included in the Programme handbook.
• In cases which arise as a result of illness:
  • Satisfactory medical evidence, including a medical certificate, must be supplied. (The extent and nature of the illness as described in the certificate are invaluable in assessing the case.)
  • A clear statement must be supplied, showing that the Programme Director/Deputy Programme Director has evaluated the situation in which the candidate finds himself/herself as a result of the illness and that s/he considers the requested extension to be appropriate. Such a statement will, wherever possible, follow direct contact between candidate and the Programme Director/Deputy Programme Director.

Please read in conjunction with the Joint Policy on Extenuating Circumstances.

10.1

It shall be the candidate’s responsibility to inform both institutions of any extenuating circumstances which might require specific support or consideration for assessment.  Guidance and details of how to apply will be provided for students via the Programme Handbook.

10.2

Candidates shall be required to produce appropriate documentation in support of their circumstances and all must be set out on the appropriate form and supported, where possible, by written evidence with original documentation translated to English.

10.3

A candidate requiring adjustments to their studies as a result of disability, long-standing medical condition, wellbeing difficulty or Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD) should discuss their requirements with the Disability Office or equivalent. The candidate will be required to provide supporting documentary evidence to either the Disability Office or Wellbeing Service. The request for adjustments will not be implemented if supporting evidence is not provided. 

10.4

Where an adjustment is needed and is supported by medical evidence, the Disability Office (or equivalent) will send their recommendations to the Programme Director/Deputy Programme Director to act on. 

10.5

A candidate requiring specific provision for their examinations should discuss their requirements with the Disability Office (or equivalent). The candidate will be required to provide supporting documentary evidence to the Disability Office (or equivalent). The request for specific examination provision will not be implemented if appropriate supporting evidence (with English translation) is not provided. 

10.6

Where a request is made for specific examination provision, the Disability Office (or equivalent) will send their recommendations to the Programme Director/Deputy Programme Director and Assessment team to make the necessary provisions. These must be shared and recorded across both institutions.  

11.1

All Joint Award and Progression Boards held in relation to this programme shall be conducted in accordance with the Joint Assessment, Marking and Feedback Policy.

11.2

All examinations shall be conducted under the jurisdiction of the joint SU/DMU Regulations and Procedures for the Operation of Examinations.  

11.3 

The Joint Academic Board shall be responsible for the nomination of an external examiner to the programme in accordance with the SU Code of Practice for External Examiners.

11.4

The Chair of the overarching SU Award and Progression boards shall have responsibility for Appointment of an external examiner.

11.5 

Additional external examiners may be nominated and appointed as deemed necessary in accordance with above procedure.

11.6

The External Examiner is responsible for:

• Review of assessment before it is confirmed;
• Review of a sample of marked assessments;
• Review of the distribution of marks;
• Attendance at examination boards in person or virtual presence;
• Submitting a formal report annually on the quality and standards of provision
• Sign-off of award endorsement forms (electronic signatures accepted).

12.1

An Aegrotat award is an award without classification that may be conferred upon a candidate on the presumption that the candidate, who is unable to continue their studies, would have satisfied the standard required for the award had they been able to continue.

12.2

A candidate who has completed their full period of study and has been absent from examinations/final assessment due to illness or other cause judged sufficient by the relevant Joint Academic Board, may apply to the Programme Director, for consideration at the Joint Award Board, to be considered for a degree under the aegrotat provisions. The application must be accompanied by a medical certificate or other evidence to support the grounds on which it is made.

12.3

In considering an application for the award of an aegrotat degree, the Joint Award Board shall consider the work that the student has submitted during the year and in such part of the examinations as they have attended (if any), and records of the candidate's performance during previous years of the programme, to determine whether there is adequate evidence that, had the student completed the examination(s) in normal circumstances, they would clearly have reached a standard for an award at the appropriate level. If the board is so satisfied, it shall recommend the award of an aegrotat degree. The recommendation of the Joint Programme Award Board shall be considered and ratified by the University Award Board for each institution before the decision may be conveyed to the candidate.

12.4

The Aegrotat award will normally correspond to the level of study which is interrupted.

12.5

An Aegrotat degree, diploma or certificate shall be unclassified and, in all other respects, un-graded.

12.6 

An Aegrotat degree shall normally be a named award. The full degree title of an Aegrotat award shall be considered as part of the procedures for considering the award and shall be made known to the candidate prior to their acceptance of the award.

12.7

The request for the award of an Aegrotat award may be made by the candidate or, where a candidate is unable to prepare or submit a request, by the Programme Director acting on their behalf. 

12.8 

The candidate shall be required to indicate, in writing, that they are willing to accept an Aegrotat award. Where a candidate is unwilling to accept an Aegrotat award, they shall be permitted to complete the examination or assessment in question by the approved subsequent date.

13.1

A posthumous qualification may be awarded to a deceased student who has completed sufficient study for the award.

13.2

The Programme Award Board may recommend that a posthumous award be conferred where there is sufficient evidence of the candidate’s performance to demonstrate that the candidate would have reached the standard required for the award in question.

13.3

A posthumous degree shall normally be a named award.

13.4

If the candidate had completed all the assessment requirements for the award, the case should be considered by the Joint Programme Award Board.

13.5 Procedures for Making the Award

Application for consideration for a posthumous award must be made by the Programme Director/Deputy Programme Director, with the permission of the candidate's family or next of kin, in writing, to the Joint Programme Award Board.

The recommendation of the Joint Programme Award Board shall be considered and ratified by the University Award Board for each institution before the decision may be conveyed to the candidate’s family or next of kin.

Assessment and feedback in relation to each module on the Programme, shall be governed by Joint Assessment, Marking and Feedback Policy.

Different marking scales are used by SU and DMU. The marking scale used for assessment within a module, and for the overall module mark, is determined by the Joint Academic Board and is specified in the module descriptor. The relationship between the marks is:

a. A pass mark at DMU is 60% and for SU modules at all levels on the programme it is 40%.

b. Marks above the pass mark are mapped as5: 𝑐𝑛= [−0. 05𝑢𝑘2 +13𝑢𝑘+100]/9

c. Marks below the pass mark are mapped as6: 𝑐𝑛=||1.5𝑢||

d. SU 99% is mapped to the DMU scale as 99% rather than DMU 100%.

e. Irrespective of the scale being used, no mark can be greater than 100%, or less than 0%.

f. The implementation of the mapping between scales is through a lookup table (See Appendix 1) with marks specified as integers. A separate mapping table is used for each direction.

Total continuous assessment marks and examination marks are each rounded up to the nearest integer out of 100; when combining to give the total module mark the result is rounded to the nearest integer.

To pass a module, a student must undertake the approved assessment for the module and meet all specified requirements for a pass in the module. In most cases this is a requirement to achieve an overall module mark above the module pass mark (i.e. 40% SU scale), but some modules may specify additional conditions.

Redemption

Where a candidate has failed a compulsory module, they can redeem failure by taking the resit component which will be based on the initial assessments (combined) and weighted 100 per cent of the overall module mark.

The overall module mark attainable for resits shall be capped at the minimum pass mark for levels 3, 4, 5 and 6.

Resits shall be taken at the next available opportunity and during the prescribed resit period.

Repeat of the Level

Where a candidate is required to retake the year (due to academic failure), all components of the retake modules are reattempted, and any previous marks/credit will be forfeit.

Award and Progression Boards

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 Joint Assessment, Marking and Feedback Policy.

Initially, and following strict marking conventions, provisional marks for continuous assessment shall be determined and recorded on the assessment system at both institutions. 

These marks, combined with the ‘final assessment’ usually taken at the end of the teaching session, will give the overall module mark, to be considered at the Joint Programme Award and Progression Boards.

The provisional marks and decisions from the Joint Award and Progression Boards will then be submitted to the overarching University Progression and Awards Boards for each institution which shall confirm the progression and award decisions. 

A separate Extenuating Circumstances committee that reports to the Joint Award and Progression Boards will also consider evidence of extenuating circumstances relating to individual students.

Membership of the Joint Programme Award and Progression Boards:

Chair: Professor Sarah Jones

Programme Director: Dr Tabetha Kurtz-Shefford (SU)/Dr Cao (DMU)

Deputy Programme Director: Shihui Yu (DMU)

Chief External Examiner: Dr Rui Zheng

Internal Examiners: All teaching members from the Joint Programme  

Secretary: TBC                            

Joint Programme Award Board – Terms of Reference

• To ensure that Award and Progression regulations relating to the JEP are applied consistently, and those standards are maintained.
• To confirm marks for modules taught on the programme from both institutions.
• To receive recommendations on extenuating circumstances and finalise marks.
• To make recommendations on provisional awards for ratification by the respective University Award Boards at each institution.
• To make recommendations on exit qualifications.
• To draw up subject level pass lists/result endorsement forms and ensure that these are signed by a Chief External Examiner.

The External Examiner(s) must be available for consultation at this meeting and are also required to sign the result endorsement forms following the meeting. 

Joint Programme Progression Board – Terms of Reference

• To ensure that Assessment and Progression regulations relating to the JEP are applied consistently, and those standards are maintained;
• To confirm marks for modules taught on the programme from both institutions;
• To receive recommendations on extenuating circumstances and finalise marks;
• To determine progression decisions, with reference to the common regulations, and to award supplementary assessments;
• To draw up subject level pass lists/result endorsement forms and ensure that these are signed by a Chief External Examiner.

Rules for Progression and Awarding Credit

The following progression regulations shall apply to the Double Degree programme LLB Maritime Law (SU) LLB Law (DMU) in collaboration with Dalian Maritime University (DMU).

Presentation of Marks for Non-finalists

When determining progression issues, the Joint Programme Progression Board shall be presented with all marks of assessment undertaken during the academic year.

Presentation of Marks for Finalists (Level 6)

The Joint Programme Award Board shall consider the result profiles of final year students and make recommendations on final award outcomes to the respective Award Boards of each Institution. The results profile of the relevant students presented to the Joint Programme Award Board will include:

The Final Year results

The results of modules pursued during previous Levels of Study but which contribute towards the awarding process (Levels 3, 4 5 and 6).

Anonymous Marking

Please read in conjunction with the Joint Assessment, Marking and Feedback Policy.

Students registered to the programme will be anonymised by student number, and names will not be used when marking. Staff will not take steps to identify any students by their student number.

All student assessments submitted via the Digital Learning Platform (DLP) at each institution will be marked in an anonymous state to ensure there is no (conscious or unconscious) bias in marking. Work submitted outside of the DLP, or which requires specific marking approaches (e.g. specific marking guidelines) will be identifiable by student number only.

There are necessary exceptions to anonymity where assessments include ‘in-person’ (including virtual) elements including (but not limited to) performance, practical work, presentations, fieldwork, placements, clinical skills and some team or group assessments.

The School of Law will inform students where specific assessments may not be marked anonymously.

Disclosure of Identity

Please read in conjunction with the Joint Assessment, Marking and Feedback Policy.

Student names will not be used while marking is taking place, and for as long as practically possible thereafter. The Joint Academic Board acknowledges that:

• Preserving the anonymity of a student's marks may not in all cases preserve the anonymity of the student;
• Candidates who have submitted an application for extenuating circumstances, or require reasonable adjustments, may need to have their assessment(s) identified in order to consider what further action might be necessary;
• Anonymity is not maintained for final degree classifications.

Schools may conduct Subject Level Assessment Boards either anonymously or by name. The Joint Progression and Awards Boards will not be anonymous and will be conducted by name.

Disclosure of Marks

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

Please refer to the University’s Joint Assessment, Marking and Feedback Policy and Accuracy of Published Marks.

G1         

The Pass mark for modules will be set at 40% (SU) and 60% (DMU) at levels 3, 4,5 and 6. Credits will only be awarded to candidates who pass a module.

G2       

In order to proceed from one level to another, a candidate must aim to accumulate 120 SU credit points (and the DMU equivalent for each level) by obtaining a mark of 40% (SU) 60% (DMU) or better in modules that contribute to the SU and DMU award. 

G3         

Candidates must satisfy attendance and assessment requirements of all modules.

G4         

Candidates who have qualified to proceed from one level of study to another shall not be allowed to elect to repeat any module which has been passed, in order to improve their performance.

G5         

It is recognised that some candidates will not be able to attend examinations during scheduled Assessment Periods due to illness or other extenuating circumstances.

Please see Policy on Extenuating Circumstances for instances where candidates were unable to attend examinations or submit assessment due to extenuating Circumstances. Applications for extenuating circumstances will be considered and supported by the Joint Extenuating Circumstances committee. 

Exit Qualifications

A candidate admitted to an initial degree programme who subsequently does not progress to completion may, depending upon the number of credits attained at the appropriate levels at the time of exit, qualify for one of the following awards:

Exit awards of Certificate of Higher Education are unnamed awards.

A candidate exiting a degree programme with an undergraduate Certificate or Diploma of Higher Education shall be eligible for the award of a Distinction where they have attained an overall mark of 70% or above for the award in question.

Such exit qualifications shall be approved by the University Progression and Awards Board.

DMU Specific Exit Awards

‘Jie Ye Zhengshu’: A certificate awarded by DMU to students who have taken all modules on the programme but failed modules in the final year and therefore do not qualify for the intended award. Students are permitted one further attempt to redeem failure and subsequently be eligible for award provided that it is taken the following academic year and ultimately falls within the overall period of candidature. If successful, the student will relinquish the Jie Ye Zhengshu and replace with the award of LLB.

‘Yi Ye Zhengshu’: A certificate of incompletion awarded by DMU for students on the programme for one year or more who decide to withdraw or fail to successfully complete their studies. In such circumstances SU would also award an exit qualification if the candidate were eligible.  

Rules to be applied during the End of Level Progression Boards

S1       

Candidates who accumulate at least 120 credits (80 credits SU and 40 credits DMU combined) in modules at the appropriate level automatically qualify to proceed to the next level of study provided that:

• Candidates have attained English Language proficiency to a standard of IELTS 6.0 or Swansea English Language Test (SWELT) 6.0. 

S2       

Candidates who accumulate 30 DMU credits or more but fewer than 40 DMU credits may qualify to proceed to the next level of study provided that:

• Candidates have attained English Language proficiency to a standard of IELTS 6.0 or Swansea English Language Test (SWELT) 6.0 and
• Failure of a compulsory (major) module is redeemed by retake of the module(s) at the next available opportunity alongside study at the next level.

S3         

Candidates who meet the requirements of S1 and S2 in respect of accumulation of credit but fail to satisfy the requirement of English Language proficiency to a standard of IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) will fail to qualify to proceed to the next Level of Study. Such candidates will normally be required to Repeat the Level of Study and will automatically forfeit any credit already gained.

S4         

Candidates who accumulate fewer than 30 DMU credits, will fail to qualify to proceed to the next Level of Study. Such candidates will normally be required to Repeat the Level of Study and will automatically forfeit any credit already gained.

S5         

Candidates will have one opportunity to Repeat the Level of Study. Such candidates will be withdrawn from the programme if they fail to qualify to proceed to the next level of study at the second attempt.

S6         

The marks achieved by candidates repeating the level of study shall not be capped.

S7         

The marks achieved by candidates retaking a module shall not be capped.

Rules to be applied during the End of Level Progression Board

S1         

Candidates who accumulate at least 120 credits (SU and DMU credits combined) in modules at the appropriate level automatically qualify to proceed to the next level of study.

S2       

Candidates who accumulate 30 DMU credits or more but fewer than 40 DMU credits may qualify to proceed to the next level of study provided that:

• Failure of a compulsory (major) module is redeemed by retake of the module(s) at the next available opportunity alongside study at the next level.

S3         

Candidates who accumulate fewer than 30 DMU credits, will fail to qualify to proceed to the next Level of Study. Such candidates will normally be required to Repeat the Level of Study and will automatically forfeit any credit already gained.

S4         

Candidates will have one opportunity to Repeat the Level of Study. Such candidates will be withdrawn from the programme if they fail to qualify to proceed to the next level of study at the second attempt.

S5         

The marks achieved by candidates repeating the level of study shall not be capped.

S6         

The marks achieved by candidates retaking a module shall not be capped.

Rules to be applied during the End of Semester - Interim Progression Boards

The purpose of interim progression boards will be to:

• Ratify marks taken at the first attempt, resit or retake;
• Confirm resits for compulsory modules to the taken at the next available opportunity provided the overall mark in the failed module(s) is not less than 40 DMU/26 SU.

Rules to be applied during the Joint Award Board

SU Award

S1       

Candidates who accumulate credit in Compulsory-Major modules at levels 3,4,5 and 6 will automatically qualify to be considered for the award of an Honours degree.  Failure in modules with required optional status only will be compensated down to a mark of zero.

S2         

Candidates who fail a compulsory-major module(s) in the final year but otherwise meet the requirement of S1 above, will fail to qualify for an honours degree. Such candidates may be permitted one final RESIT attempt to redeem the failure(s) in the compulsory module(s) during the supplementary period. For the purposes of classifying the degree, the mark(s) so achieved shall be capped at the minimum pass mark. The marks for all other modules will be retained for the purposes of classifying the degree.   

S3       

Candidates who fail to redeem failure at the resit attempt may, in exceptional circumstances and only with the expressed permission of the University Progression and Awards Board, be permitted to repeat study the following session. Such a decision shall be taken with possible reference to the outcomes of a Joint Committee of Enquiry, Extenuating Circumstances Committee, Student Cases Board or an Academic Appeal Board. Such decision shall include a recommendation as to whether the marks achieved during the repeat study should be capped or uncapped.

S4         

Candidates who are repeating study in the final year and who fail to qualify to be considered for an award will be given no further attempts to redeem failures and will be Required to Withdraw their candidature from the programme.

Depending on the number of credits attained, these candidates may be eligible for an exit award. The Joint Awards Board will be responsible for considering the number of credits attained and, if appropriate, provisionally awarding the relevant exit qualification. 

Eligibility for Award

Eligibility for SU Award

Candidates must have pursued (taken) 132 DMU credit points/480 SU credit points comprising modules of required Optional and Compulsory-Major status to be eligible to be considered for an award.

Modules pursued on the programme at Levels 3, 4, 5 and 6 taught by SU and DMU shall contribute towards the final classification as detailed below according to the status of the module.

Candidates must attain credit (pass) all Compulsory-Major modules on the programme which includes the Dissertation (Directed Independent Learning) module.

Failure in modules with required optional status will be tolerated down to a mark of zero.

Eligibility for DMU Award

Candidates must have pursued (taken) 169 DMU credits points /480 SU credit points comprising modules of Required Optional, General Optional, Compulsory-Major, Compulsory-General and Compulsory-Professional status. Credits are subject to minor change at the discretion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, please see appended programme structure for each cohort. Modules pursued on the programme at Levels 3, 4, 5 and 6 taught by SU and DMU shall contribute towards the final classification as detailed below according to the status of the module.

Candidates must attain credit (pass) all Compulsory – General, Compulsory-Major and Compulsory-Professional modules on the programme, which includes the Dissertation (Directed Independent Learning) module.

Failure in modules with required optional and general optional status will be tolerated down to a mark of zero.

Classification Bands (Applicable to SU Award only)

The candidate’s class of degree will be determined by the weighted average mark for all modules, including marks of failures, contributing to the honours' assessment using the following classification boundaries:

ELIGIBILITY FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF AN AWARD

The Joint Programme Award Board shall consider the candidate's overall performance during the Levels of Study which contribute towards the award.

BORDERLINE CASES

The following Guiding Principles are designed to assist the Joint Award Board in the consideration of borderline cases in the classification of degrees. These principles shall be used in conjunction with the method of classification, and shall be considered in the cases of all students whose classification average falls within the 'window of opportunity' (i.e. within 2% of a classification boundary).

The Joint Progression and Awards Board should raise a student’s classification if they fall within the ‘window of opportunity’ and satisfies the criteria of 3.3.2 (Preponderance Principle) and/or 3.3.3 (Exit Velocity Principle).

These Principles also assume that the Joint Programme Award Board will not change marks that have been confirmed by the Joint Programme Progression Board – for the current or previous academic years. 

Preponderance Principle

Where a student's classification average falls within 2% of a classification boundary, the Joint Award Board shall consider the proportion of marks obtained by the student, that count towards to the SU award, in each classification band. The Joint Progression and Awards Board shall consider only those marks at Levels 5 and 6.

In order that the student be awarded the higher classification, a student must have achieved 100 SU credits in the final year of study and marks in the higher classification band must have been achieved in modules attracting a credit weighting equal to half or more of those contributing to the SU degree classification.

For students who have pursued 240 credits at levels 5 and 6

Exit Velocity Principle

Where a student's classification average falls within 2% of a classification boundary, the Joint Programme Award Board shall consider the non-weighted average of the Final Year of Study.

Where the student's Final Year average is in the higher classification band, the Joint Programme Award Board shall provisionally agree the higher classification. 

Weighted Average

Candidates are to be classified according to their weighted average mark on all modules taken that count towards the degree classification.

A formula is then applied to calculate the weighted degree classification average as follows:

• Level 6 average, given a weighting of 4
• Level 5 average, given weighting of 3
• Level 4 average, given a weighting of 2
• Level 3 average, with a weighting of 1

The degree transcript provided by DMU will show all modules (SU and DMU) counting towards the DMU award  with marks on the DMU scale.

The degree transcript provided by SU will show all modules (DMU and SU) counting towards the SU award with marks on the SU UK scale plus an overall Honours classification.

A student with tuition fee debts to either institution shall not be entitled to receive the award from either.

Conversion from SU to DMU marks: