Quality Handbook Supplement 5J - Assessment regulations when there are PSRB constraints

1.1 The University states that, where available, all NTU courses will attain appropriate accreditation or recognition by Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies (PSRBs).

1.2 In some cases, the PSRB requirements may impose constraints on the application of the University’s Common Assessment Regulations (CAR). Typically, these constraints relate to issues of retake, referral, compensation and student representation or conduct.

1.3 Where it is absolutely necessary to adopt the PSRB constraints – in order for students to achieve PSRB recognition - course teams should normally make provision for a different, alternative award which falls within the conventional interpretations of the relevant CAR. This alternative award will ensure that students on such courses are treated fairly and consistently with students on non-PSRB recognised courses elsewhere in the University.

1.4 The title of the alternative award should be sufficiently different from the PSRB recognised award, so that it is not misleading to employers. The title will be considered at the approval event.

1.5 Alternative awards should be conferred to mark the achievement of positively defined outcomes, not simply compensation for failure to achieve the PSRB award or by default. The alternative award should only be awarded if the student has demonstrated the outcomes that are required for that alternative award.

1.6 In order that students know what is expected of them in such circumstances, course teams must ensure that clear information is available to all students and teaching staff (including any at a collaborative partner) about the specific requirements that must be met for the PSRB recognised award.

1.7 In particular, the course team must devise a supplement to the relevant University Common Assessment Regulations, to make it clear:

1. Which modules must be passed to meet the requirements of the PSRB.
2. Which modules must be passed at the first attempt in order to meet the requirements of the PSRB.
3. Which modules cannot be compensated to qualify for the PSRB-recognised award.
4. Which modules, or other parts of the course must be passed at a certain level, grade or mark to qualify for the PSRB-recognised award.
5. Whether the course as a whole must be achieved at a certain level, grade or mark to qualify for the PSRB recognised award.
6. Any variation from University procedures in terms of the Consideration of personal circumstances, academic appeals, and Academic Integrity.

1.8 This supplement will normally be approved at the approval event or shortly afterwards, where negotiations need to be finalised with the PSRB. In latter cases, approval will usually be conditional.

1.9 Once approval has taken place, the PSRB register must be updated, and currency maintained, with a final copy of the supplement provided to EQP.

1.10 In the case of Professional Certificate and Professional Diploma courses, the need to provide an alternative award is not paramount. For more information about this, see Quality Handbook Supplement 3B.