Student Guide 2012

AlgebraUniversity College for Applied Computer Engineering

Student Guide for the academic year 2012/2013

Dear Colleague,

Thank you for choosing our institution as the place for your further professional development. By recognizing

computer engineering and IT as one of today’s most competitive Croatian export sectors, which employ new

and additional staff even during these times of crisis and recession, you have made a step in the right direction.

Your decision is a great honor to us, but also a big commitment, not only because we are expected to justify

the trust given to us and fulfill your expectations, but also because we are aware of our social responsibility and

the importance of education as a fundamental competitive advantage in today’s dynamic labor market.

Despite the fact that computer engineering and information technology provide great perspective, interesting

jobs, above average salaries as well as exploration of new and advanced technologies, it is important to be

aware of the obligations this career can impose on you. This refers primarily to serious work and motivation

required already during the study period, as well as the need for continuous improvement and learning, great

dedication to work and readiness for constant changes after finding employment.

I believe you have recognized the University College primarily by our unique educational plan and program

oriented towards the acquisition of practical and applicable knowledge required by the IT industry of today

and by international certificates deliberately incorporated into the study program. Our organizational

and personnel structure possesses the same knowledge, experience and enthusiasm that have made the

educational group Algebra the leading provider of education in the field of computer engineering and

information technology in the Republic of Croatia and the largest private educational system in the region.

This is not only a matter of size, but primarily a matter of quality verified by the certificate issued by FER for

the educational program and implementation of classes that are organized by no other professional higher

educational institution in Croatia.

Today, students are increasingly aware that without a good educational plan, which prepares them for practical

work and current labor market needs, they would be investing years of their lives in studies that can potentially

lead them to the unemployment office. As an educational system that has, for more than 14 years, represented

the first choice of more than two thirds of Croatian employers interested in specialist IT training, we are aware

of our responsibilities in this regard.

Therefore, I believe that by studying at the University College you will be given a positive life experience that

will change you forever and make you capable of coping with challenges of the professional career ahead of

you. Do not forget that we live in a time of information technology revolution and that both the World and

the labor market are changing faster than ever before. Remember also that globalization trends will be felt in

Croatia and that millions of educated professionals from other countries are already dreaming of taking your

potential job in the struggle for a better life.

The study at the University College should therefore be understood just as a step on the path to your career.

Become aware of your attitudes, competences and knowledge as the most valuable assets you possess in order

to secure your personal well-being and welfare of your families in times of extreme competition yet to come.

Therefore, your educational journey must continue even after graduation from the University College, at work,

but also outside of it, because each individual may only be measured by the amount of knowledge possessed.

Mislav Balković, M.Sc.

Dean

Introduction

Student Guide for the academic year 2012/2013 54 Algebra College – University College for Applied Computer Engineering –www.racunarstvo.hr

Table of contents

Introduction 3

Contents 4

About the Student Guide 5

About the University College 5

Mission and vision 6

Mission 6

Vision 6

Location and facilities 7

Facilities 7

Plan of University College premises 8

Description of the study 9

Professional title acquired 9

Duration of the study 9

Calendar for the academic year 2012/2013 10

About studying 11

What are learning outcomes? 11

How many points can the student achieve in each

course 11

Attendance at classes – condition for

obtaining signatures 12

What if the student does not obtain a

signature? 12

Mid-term exams 12

When can the learning outcomes be

corrected? 13

Oral exam – final assessment 13

What if the student fails to pass the oral exam or

refuses the grade offered? 14

Calculation of grades 14

What if the student was caught copying? 14

How to register and cancel exams? 14

What if the student does not register for the exam

or does not cancel the exam on time? 14

How many times can the student retake the

exam? 15

How commission exams are conducted? 15

What if the student fails the commission

exam? 15

How many ECTS points can the student transfer

and what are the requirements for

enrollment in the following years of study? 15

Consultations and mentors for less effective

students 15

How and when can I take certification exams? 15

When does the student lose the right to study? 16

Study support 16

Digital infrastructure 16

Library and reading room 17

Forum and how to use it 17

Student opinion matters to us 17

Student surveys 17

Box for complaints and compliments 18

Student status certification 18

List of documents and regulations 19

Final project and student practice 21

Career center 21

Student leisure time 22

Student Council 22

Sports 22

International student exchange 23

Protection of student rights 23

Contacts 24

Throughout its development, the Algebra - University College for Applied Computer Engineering has

built an important organizational and educational infrastructure that is available to students as support

for the educational process. We prepared this guide in order to make it easier and faster for you to use

all resources available, realize the rights belonging to you, and find your way around these regulations,

instructions and other documents. These guidelines represent a short and concise referential overview of

existing documents and instructions and strive to answer most of your potential questions in one place.

However, these guidelines are not the only place where you can find information about the study program

and studying. On the contrary, the Student Guide represents a concise, but shortened overview of what

we consider important and useful. Therefore, we encourage you to look for other information on the

University College website where all current status documents, instructions and regulations have been

published and in case of any further questions we advise you to contact the student office staff.

About the Student Guide

Based on recognized trends in the employment of educated IT specialists observed through the

analysis of employment needs and characteristics of the labor market in the Republic of Croatia, the

project of establishing the University College for Applied Computer Engineering started in 2006.

The project of setting up a university college was extremely complex and time consuming because

the aim of its founders was to create a top-quality higher educational institution with program,

staff and teaching materials ready to respond to the demands of employers and labor market. The

certificate of quality issued by the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER) confirmed

that these were not just ungrounded aspirations and approved the high level of the educational

plan. Another confirmation of quality was received in 2010 when the University College for Applied

Computer Engineering participated in an international pilot project conducted for the first time

in Croatia in form of external assesment of the quality assurance system of higher education. The

Accreditation Organization of the Netherlands and Flanders, NVAO, one of the European authorities

for independent assessment of the quality of higher education, awarded the University College for

Applied Computer Engineering with high marks in all segments, particularly emphasizing the quality

of its professional courses and collaboration with the industry and issued compliance approval.

University College is a part of Algebra educational group, founder of the University College, which has

been active for more than 14 years on the market of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina and is now

the region’s leading education center for computer engineering and information technology.

About the University College


MissionThroughout its activities, the University College strives to build a value system coherent to values in

which we strongly believe through:

public activities and campaigns,

gathering of relevant information as a basis for social and policy development,

support to formal educational system in the Republic of Croatia,

especially to system of vocational education,

active work within nongovernmental sector and employers’ association,

active work within the framework of European and global initiatives fostering

development of the Republic of Croatia and its educational system (OECD, ETF,...)

attraction of foreign projects and investments significant

for development of the Republic of Croatia,

active work together with institutions and communities of persons with

disabilities in order to foster their social inclusion and employment,

fostering information technology literacy and basic

competences stated in EU strategic documents,

fostering the importance of educational quality on any level, especially within higher education

activities fostering international cooperation and implementation

of projects in cooperation with international institutions,

cooperation with employers and especially ICT employers in order to support their efforts

to educate work force capable of achieving and maintaining competitive advantages

required for the positioning of the Republic of Croatia in the European and global market.

In order to perform all above mentioned activities, the University College makes strategic

development decisions in the field of higher education, assures material and technical resources

for the implementation of these activities, controls and develops internal quality assurance system,

maintains contacts with business sector and supports career development of its students through

activities of the Career center. In order to support the above stated activities, the University College

develops its information system, system for assessment, e-learning (electronic learning) system and,

in material and technical sense, develops the necessary capacities in order to provide prerequisites for

a high quality study.

VisionWe aim to become the first choice of Croatian and regional students interested in professional higher

education in the field of ICT, through development of excellence in all aspects of our work: our

infrastructure, staff, cooperation with the industry and international activities.

Mission and visionFacilitiesSince August 24th 2009 the University College for Applied Computer

Engineering welcomes new generations of students at its new

premises. Today, the University College is situated in a newly

decorated and fully equipped building, dating from the beginning

of the 20th century, which is located within the University Campus

complex in Ilica 242, Zagreb, and can be entered from Domobranska Street.

The contrast of new technologies and old restored buildings creates an encouraging and dynamic

environment within the college premises. With more than 1100 m2 of rooms available for students

and staff, the University College for Applied Computer Engineering raises the level of equipment and

quality of academic facilities in Croatia.

The following facilities of the University College are available to students:

Conference lecture room “Nikola Tesla” with 70 seats and lecture room “Ruđer Bošković” with 49

seats, both equipped with excellent air conditioning system, conference sound system and video

conference equipment that enables students to follow classes via Internet and conduct virtual

lectures held by foreign guest lecturers.

Two air conditioned, specially equipped laboratories for network technologies with 18 – 20 work

places for students. Apart from PC’s, each work place is equipped with Cisco and other network

components for all levels of network technology (from CCNA to CCNP, Wireless, etc.).

Four air conditioned, specially equipped laboratories for computer engineering technologies

equipped with 18 – 26 work places for students. Each work place is equipped with a PC installed with

latest software development packages and operating systems. For each course, a special working

environment is prepared and installed and simple modification and preparation for other courses is

supported by virtualization technology.

Two air conditioned multipurpose classrooms are equipped with 14 – 40 work places. These

classrooms are not equipped with fixed computer equipment, but if necessary a mobile classroom

can be used which consists of two sets of 15 laptops. These classrooms are used primarily for courses

in social sciences.

Reading room and Student Council room are premises used for both work and study. Student room

is equipped with computers and work places as well as with server equipment used for exercise. This

room is available to students 24 hours a day.

The official library of the University College available to students and teaching staff is the library of

the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER), located in Unska 3, Zagreb. In addition,

students can borrow mandatory books and part of additional literature from the reading room of the

University College through on-line order via digital student service (Infoeduka system). Books ordered

this way can be collected at the student office.

The student office is equipped with photocopying machines and other technology that facilitates

studying.

A spacious lounge area for rest, relaxation and refreshments is furnished with modern and

comfortable furniture, coffee machines and other forms of refreshment and provided with Internet

access and TV.

The entire area of the University College is within the reach of fast wireless Internet (completely

free for students) and all classrooms and lecture rooms of the University College are equipped with

presentation equipment.

University College premises are fully accessible to persons with disabilities.

Location and facilities

8 9Student Guide for the academic year 2012/2013

Classroom 6

1st floor

WC m

Hallway Hallway

Hallway

Hallway

Cleaner

Hallway

Multimedia space

StaircaseWC f

WC m

WC f

Stairs

Lecture room “Nikola Tesla”

Classroom 1

Classroom 2 Classroom 3

Classroom 5 Classroom 4

“Galileo”

laboratory

Student

office

Prometric

testing

center

Staffroom

Lecture room

“Ruđer Bošković”

Classroom 0 Technical

support Marketing

Software

engineering

department

Departmentfor

computernetworks

Departmentfor

generalcourses

Department for operating systems

/ Department for

IT Security

Managing

Board

Career

center

Dean's office

Vice dean

“Kopernik”

laboratoryground floor

WC dis

WC m

HallwayHallway

Entrance

Reception

Ramp Ramp

Hallway Hallway

Hallway

Entrance StairsPre-entrance area

WC f

WC m

WC f

Department for training

aids development

support

Department

for teacher

support

Department for

operating

systems

Department for

international

cooperation and

project support

Department

for

education

loft

WC m

Hallway HallwayHallway Staircase

WC f

Plan of University College premisesPremises of the University College for Applied Computer Engineering are marked in blue.

University College for Applied Computer Engineering offers two

professional sub specializations:

Software engineering System engineering

The study program in software engineering provides training in design, development and maintenance of

complex applications and information systems.

The study program in system engineering provides training in programming and maintenance of computer

systems and networks.

Additional specialization is possible through elective courses, seminars and final paper. The study program is

spread over three study years. In order to be admitted to the following year of study, students need to pass

previous year exams valued with a minimum of 40 ECTS points in total (it is not necessary to pass all exams).

Admission to the third year of study is not possible, regardless of the number of ECTS points collected during

the second year, in case the student did not pass all first year exams. The students can enroll in the next year of

study in the winter semester. Enrollment in the summer semester is performed automatically after registration

of a completed winter semester in the beginning of February.

When enrolling in the second semester students can, without additional costs and without taking additional

exams, decide to change their chosen sub specialization, since the first semester of study is common to both

study programs.

The obligations of students regarding each course are determined by the course holder (professor) and students

are informed about these obligations at the beginning of classes in form of an official descriptive document

published within the Infoeduka digital student service system available for each course. Each study course is

accredited with a certain number of ECTS points. The number of ECTS points is determined by the number of

teaching hours needed to master the course materials, including active classes (lectures and exercises) as well

as work at home. One ECTS point represents 30 hours of workload. Average weekly workload consists of 22 – 24

school hours of classes and 15 – 20 hours of work at home. The number of ECTS points the student is expected

to collect per semester is 30. Each study year (two semesters) is accredited with 60 ECTS points. During the final,

sixth semester, the preparation of final paper/project within student practice is accredited with 10 ECTS points.

The total number of ECTS points required for completion of studies and acquisition of the diploma is 180.

Professional title acquiredThe professional study program is completed by passing all exams and acquiring a minimum of 180 ECTS

points including the passing of final practical exam, completion of professional practice and preparation of final

paper. The professional title acquired is in accordance with the Act on Academic and Professional Titles and the

Academic Degree (Official Gazette, No. 87/09, entered into force on July 21st 2009).

By completing their studies, the students acquire the title of: professional bachelor of computer engineering

in corresponding sub specialization which corresponds to the degree of Baccalaureus (bacc.ing.comp.), Eng.

Bachelor of Computer Engineering.

Duration of the studyThe study is conducted as a full-time program during a period of three years or six semesters of which the sixth

semester is dedicated to narrower professional guidance and preparation of final project. Expected duration

of classes is 15 weeks per semester which makes 19 weeks in total together with the two midterm examination

periods. The first semester and almost the entire second semester are common to both study programs. Mutual

courses are present in other semesters, but in smaller numbers than during the first year of study. Classes are

scheduled and adapted to the needs of students, especially of those students who work and study.

Description of the study


Wk Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Wk Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Wk Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun

1 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 M 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 8 1 2

2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 M 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 9 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

3 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 6 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

4 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 7 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 M 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

5 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 8 26 27 28 29 30 M 24 25 26 27 28 29 30


31 1 2 3 4 5 6 14 1 2 3 1 1 2 3

11 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

12 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 I1 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 3 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

13 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 I2 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 4 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

14 28 29 30 31 1+I3 25 26 27 28 5 25 26 27 28 29 30 31


M 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 M 1 2

M 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 9 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

6 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 10 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 12 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

7 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 M 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 13 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

8 29 30 M 27 28 29 30 31 14 24 25 26 27 28 29 30


15 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 1

I4 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 I8 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

I5 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 I9 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

I6 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 I10 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

29 30 31 I7 26 27 28 29 30 31 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30

exercises lectures exam term nonworking days holidays

APRIL 2013 MAY 2013 JUNE 2013

JULY 2013 AUGUST 2013 SEPTEMBER 2013

SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER 2012 NOVEMBER 2012 DECEMBER 2012

JANUARY 2013 FEBRUARY 2013 MARCH 2013

Calendar for the academic year

September 24th 2012beginning of the academic year – winter semester

October 29th 2012 – November 10th 2012mid-term exams

December 17th 2012 – January 5th 2013 mid-term exams

December 24th 2012 – December 30th 2012 Christmas and New Year holidays

February 11th 2013 – March 2nd 2013 winter exam term – final exams

February 25th 2013beginning of classes – summer semester

April 2nd 2013 – April 13th 2013 mid-term exams

May 20th 2013 – June 1st 2013 mid-term exams

July 8th 2013 – July 27th 2013 summer exam term and re-examinations

August 26th 2013 – September 21st 2013autumn exam term

University College reserves the right to change the student calendar. The current calendar is available at: www.racunarstvo.hr

What are learning outcomes?Learning outcomes are statements that specify

what the student is expected to know, understand and be able to do on successful completion of the

learning process.

Learning outcomes are defined by course holders for all courses conducted at the University

College. Each course is defined by 4 – 9 learning outcomes. Learning outcomes are fully covered by

the curriculum and assessment methods are defined for each course within the document entitled

“Instructions for attending and taking courses”.

In order to pass the course, the student must achieve a minimum of 50% in EACH of the

learning outcomes identified for the course in question!

How many points can the student achieve in each course?Learning outcomes are assessed through the use of various methods and each assessment method

awards a certain number of points with a maximum of 100 points per course. Points are rounded to

two decimal places.

Example:

How methods used for assessment of learning outcomes are rated in certain (illustrative example) courses:

Participation in classes (attendance): up to 3 points

First mid-term exam: up to 20 points

Second mid-term exam: up to 20 points

Third mid-term exam: up to 20 points

Blitz tests: up to 10 points

Homework: up to 10 points

Oral exam: 17 points

Acquisition of points, i.e. assessment methods and distribution of points may differ, and depending

on the course in question some of the following evaluation methods may be introduced: seminar

paper, school assignments, project tasks, work placement, exercises, etc.

Distribution according to learning outcomes (illustrative example):

About studying


Attendance at classes – condition for obtaining signaturesAttendance is not mandatory, but in order to qualify for the teacher’s signature students are required to

attend classes as stipulated by article 34 of the Book of regulations on study. Attendance of each student

is recorded through the Infoeduka digital student service system.

Full-time students must attend at least 70% of the total number of lecture hours and at least 80% of

the total number of exercise hours in order to obtain signatures. Part-time students must attend at

least 60% of the total number of lecture hours and at least 60% of the total number of exercise hours

in order to obtain signatures.

It is possible to attend classes (only lectures) through video conference system, in which case the teachers

may downsize the number of classes attended in comparison to classroom presence or may not accept

such form of attendance at all. Apart from attendance at classes, in order to obtain a signature, depen-

ding on the course in question, additional conditions may be set by the teacher in charge of the course

as stipulated by “Instructions for attending and taking courses”, e.g. seminar paper, project task, etc.

Example: In order to qualify for the signature, the student is required to attend 70% of lectures, 80% of exer-

cises and write a seminar paper. In case the student’s attendance at lectures was above 70% and attendance

at exercises was 100% and the student failed to complete a seminar paper the respective teacher may deny

his/her signature.

What if the student does not obtain a signature?Students who do not qualify for the teacher’s signature may re-enter the same course by paying for the

course during the next academic year and do not have the right to take exams for the course during

the current academic year.

Mid-term examsDuring each semester three mid-term exams will be organized for each course. Each mid-term exam

covers one or more learning outcomes. At the beginning of the course the teacher in charge will cle-

arly define which learning outcomes are covered by which mid-term exam and each mid-term exam

will clearly indicate which learning outcomes are covered by the exam and its questions (exercises) – if

applicable.

In general, first mid-term exam is taken after 5 weeks of classes and covers learning outcomes acquired

during the first 5 weeks. Second mid-term exam is taken after the following 5 weeks of classes and covers

learning outcomes acquired during the next 5 weeks of classes. Third mid-term exam is taken after the

following 5 weeks of classes and covers learning outcomes acquired during the final 5 weeks of classes.

Mid-term exams are not taken during classes, but during a period of 2 weeks scheduled for each mid-

term after a cycle of 5 weeks of classes.

Each mid-term exam may consist of multiple choice questions, descriptive questions, tasks solved with

the help of computer, etc. The type of questions is defined by teachers, but all questions and exercises

must cover relevant course materials and learning outcomes.

Regardless of the number of points achieved in each mid-term exam or related to each learning outcome

the student may take each of the following mid-term exams and other tests.

Example: mid-term exam 1 covers learning outcomes L1, L2 and L3 with a total of 20 points of which 7 points

can be achieved in exercises related to L1, 6 points for L2 and 7 points for L3. The student achieves the following

result for the mid-term exam in question: 5 points for L1, 4 points for L2 and 1 point for L3. All of these points

are to be entered within the Infoeduka system and distributed according to relevant learning outcomes.

Once entered, points obtained in mid-term exams for each of the learning outcomes will not be deleted

unless the student decides to correct the result of an individual learning outcome. In this case points

obtained earlier will be deleted and new points will be entered.

Example: mid-term exam 1 contains learning outcomes L1, L2 and L3 with a total of 20 points of which 7 points

can be obtained in exercises related to L1, 6 points for L2 and 7 points for L3. The student obtains the following

result in the mid-term exam in question: 5 points for L1, 4 points for L2 and 1 point for L3.

During a mid-term examination period the student decides to correct the result obtained in L1 regardless

of the 5 points already achieved, and this time obtains 3 points. In such case previously obtained points

will be deleted and new (inferior) result will be entered. The same applies in case the newly achieved

result is higher than the existing number of points.

Students who have passed relevant exams at other institutions or students who have obtained the

learning outcomes in question based on relevant industrial certificates are not obliged to take parts of

mid-term exams or additional exams related to such learning outcomes.

When can the learning outcomes be corrected?Mid-term exams will not be repeated throughout the semester. Learning outcomes can be improved during

pre-term exams (conducted at the same time as third mid-term exams) or during exam terms. Evaluation

of learning outcomes through mid-term exams enables the students to pass the course material through

smaller units distributed throughout the 19 weeks semester duration.

Example: the student registers for taking the third mid-term exam conducted during pre-term exams. The

student attends the mid-term exam and receives a paper with exercises. The first part of the exam consists of

learning outcomes related to third mid-term exam. Student who is not satisfied with results obtained in other

learning outcomes may retake exercises related to those learning outcomes, in addition to the ones related to

the third mid-term exam. Exercises will be clearly marked so that students will know exactly which learning

outcomes they are retaking (if so wanted).

All students who fail to obtain a satisfactory number of points in particular learning outcome through

the three mid-term exams can, during pre-term exams or during exam terms, retake examination re-

lated to learning outcomes with which they are not satisfied. Students should always be aware that in

order to pass a certain course it is necessary to achieve at least 50% of the maximum number of points

awarded for each learning outcome.

Points obtained through homework, blitz tests and attendance are maintained throughout the acade-

mic year and may be corrected only exceptionally based on explicit approval given by the teacher in

charge of the course.

Example: the student has obtained a sufficient number of points (through mid-term exams, exercises, etc.)

related to the first 7 learning outcomes of a course which consists of 8 learning outcomes in total, but did not

obtain a sufficient number of points regarding the last eighth learning outcome. Student can register for the

following exam term and within the written exam can retake the exercises related to the 8th learning outcome.

If the student collects a satisfactory number of points regarding the 8th learning outcome he/she will meet

the requirements necessary to take the oral exam.

The maximum number of points per learning outcome and per assessment method is known in advance

(for most courses) and there is no point for students to take the oral exam in case they failed to collect

at least 50% of the maximum number of points per each outcome.

Oral exam – fi nal assessmentThe grade obtained in the oral exam represents the final grade for the course. This grade is given by the

teacher in charge of the course through free evaluation of the level of knowledge displayed by students.

Based on the teacher’s decision an oral exam might not be required for a particular course / student.

Such decisions are stated within the “Instructions for attending and taking courses”.

Oral exams (if conducted) and the entry of grades in students’ Indexes may be attended by students

who have obtained signatures from the respective teacher confirming that all obligations regarding the

course in question had been fulfilled and that the student had obtained a minimum of 50% of the total

number of points stipulated for each learning outcome.


Based on the knowledge demonstrated in the oral exam the teacher may grade the student’s knowledge

with an unsatisfactory grade regardless of the points obtained in learning outcomes (during the mid

term exams).

What if the student fails to pass the oral exam or refuses the grade offered?If the student obtains an unsatisfactory grade based on knowledge demonstrated in the oral exam or

refuses the grade offered by the teacher, the student can re-register for the exam during one of the

following exam terms and retake the oral exam (if satisfied with the points obtained for each learning

outcome during the course). Each time the student retakes the exam as described above, it will be calcu-

lated within the total number of exam attempts allowed (3+1) and the exam will be considered as failed.

Calculation of gradesGrades are calculated as follows:

• 92,01-100,00 points: excellent (5)

• 75,01-92,00 points: very good (4)

• 58,01-75,00 points: good (3)

• 50,01-58,00 points: sufficient (2)

What if the student was caught copying?Students are expected to participate in classes, write homework, take mid-term exams, final exam, etc.

Each of these activities must be done individually (unless otherwise specified). Copying from another

student is considered a minor disciplinary offense and measures will be applied in accordance with article

8 of the Book of regulations on responsibilities and penal measures. Measures are usually taken against

both students involved, the one who was copying and the one who was copied from.

Example: If the exam supervisor notices that the student was copying during the examination, the student will

be sent out from the classroom and awarded with 0 points for each learning outcome related to the exam or

the mid-term exam without the examination of the test. The student will also be reported to the Committee

for Penal Measures which will impose disciplinary measures. The student may retake the exam during the

next exam term (if 3+1 attempts were still not reached).

Example: If the exam supervisor notices that the student had copied homework from another student, both

students involved will be reported to the Committee for Penal Measures which will impose disciplinary mea-

sures. Students have the right to rewrite their homework, but will be assigned a new task.

In case copying reoccurs after a disciplinary measure has been already imposed in accordance with ar-

ticle 8 of the Book of regulations on responsibilities and penal measures it will be considered a serious

disciplinary offense and measures will be applied as stipulated in article 7 of the aforementioned Book

of regulations.

How to register and cancel exams?In order to take mid-term exams and exams it is necessary to register for exams through the Infoeduka

system. Registration deadline is at least 72 hours prior to the beginning of the exam and the cancellation

deadline is at least 24 hours prior to the exam. Cancellation can also be done through the Infoeduka

system.

What if the student does not register for the exam or does not cancel the exam on time?The student who fails to register for a mid-term exam or exam on time may not take the exam in question

at this time, but may register for the next exam term according to stipulated deadlines.

Student who does not cancel the exam on time and does not attend the exam has used one of the exam

attempts allowed (3+1) and his result will be considered as failed.

How many times can the student retake the exam?Each student may take each exam up to four times in total and the fourth exam attempt will be con-

ducted as a commission exam. The student is considered to have taken the exam by registering for the

exam and taking the exam or by failing to cancel a registered exam and not attending.

How commission exams are conducted?For courses conducted during winter and summer semester commission exams will be organized in

September/October. Commission exams usually consist of a written part conducted for correction of

learning outcomes and the oral exam in front of a three member examination committee as stipulated

by the Book of regulations on study. The examination committee has the right to assess the student

with a maximum number of points prescribed for each learning outcome depending on the level of

knowledge. The final grade will be given by the examination committee.

Commission exams will be charged. In order to register for a commission exam the student needs to

present evidence at the student office showing that the exam has been paid for. Otherwise, the student

will not be able to take the commission exam and will have to wait for the commission exam to be re-

organized during the following academic year or exceptionally during another period.

What if the student fails the commission exam?The student who does not pass the exam in four attempts, in other words fails to pass the commission

exam, may re-enter the course in question and retake the exam during the next academic year. By re-

entering the course the student obtains the right to another 4 exam attempts. If the student fails to pass

the course again the student will lose the right to study at the Algebra – University College for Applied

Computer Engineering.

In case the student fails to pass the exam 12 months after enrollment in the course, the student loses

the right to take the exam and has to re-enter the course regardless of the signature obtained or the

total number of exam attempts he/she already made.

How many ECTS points can the student transfer and what are the requirements for enrollment in the following years of study?Each student may enroll in the next following year of study if he/she obtained at least 40 ECTS points

during the previous study year. Student who did not pass all first year exams may not enroll in the third

year of study.

Students can enroll in courses assigned with a maximum of 30 ECTS points per semester which means that

it is possible to follow courses that are conducted during the same semester, but that belong to different

study years, in case all other enrollment requirements have been met.

Consultations and mentors for less effective studentsIf necessary, consultations can be arranged with the teacher in charge of the course. If the teacher

concludes, based on test results, that the level of knowledge of certain students is significantly behind

that of other students, such student must attend mandatory consultations or additional classes and will

be assigned with a mentor who will work with the student and help him/her master the course material.

How and when can I take certifi cate exams?Certificate exams included in the tuition fee are not mandatory and free certificate exams are

available only to students who meet all precertification requirements as prescribed. This usually refers

to passing exams in related courses or obtaining a certain number of credits within the certificate

exam preparation system.


In case the student fails to pass a certificate exam, the University College will provide an opportunity

for re-evaluation through a second exam upon payment of costs determined by the price-list issued

by the certification institution responsible for the test procedure.

Certificate exams can be taken within exam terms according to a pre-announced schedule, but are

not connected to the exams held at the end of each course. Certificate exams cannot replace exams

conducted at the end of classes. Students generally take certificate exams in a particular field only

after successfully passing the exam / exams related to the respective certificate exam. The right to

take certificate exams included in the tuition fee is valid for a maximum of 6 months after the expiry

of student rights, in case these expire on the basis of successful completion of studies, or after the

date of disenrollment or of cessation of student rights in case these rights cease on any other basis.

When does the student lose the right to study?The student status will be deemed as ceased in the following cases:

Completion of the studies

Disenrollment from the study program

In the case the student fails to pass an exam after enrolling in the same course

for the second time (due to failing the commission exam or deadline expiry as

defined by paragraph 6 article 27 of the Book of regulations on study)

Exclusion from the studies due to violation of the University College regulations in

accordance with the Book of regulations on responsibilities and penal measures

Inability to complete the studies within due time

In any other case provided by the law and the University College Statutes.

Digital infrastructureStudents studying at the University College

are entitled to use the complete higher

education information infrastructure

supported by the AAI authentication

system. In addition to access to the

University College services such as the

Infoeduka – digital student service, e-mail

system, video conference system and forum, each student is entitled to use services provided by

CARNet as well as favorable Internet access options provided by commercial telecommunication

service providers.

Infoeduka is a digital student service system that supports students during studies and is used for:

1. Overview of notifications – official bulletin board of the University College

2. Registration and cancellation of exams

3. Overview of attendance in classes

4. Instructions for attending courses

5. Instructions for preparation of seminar papers

6. Access to all materials related to classes

7. Access to LMS learning system

8. Contacts with student office

Study support

9. Mailbox

10. Overview of exams passed and points collected

11. Communication with teachers and assistants

12. Overview of books available at the internal library

13. Overview of financial obligations towards the University College

14. Printing out student status certifications issued to full-time students

Infoeduka system represents an official communication channel and by signing the student contract

students commit to follow notifications published by teachers, assistants and other entities of the

University College.

Notifications published within the Infoeduka system contain information about the time of

consultations, exam results, oral exams schedules, results of seminar papers and other information.

Library and reading roomThe official library of the University College is located at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and

Computing (FER). Apart from the official library situated at FER, the University College is equipped

with an internal reading room where mandatory literature and a part of optional literature related

to the study can be found. The Infoeduka digital student service system supports the process of

borrowing and returning reading room items. Students can review book titles, check their availability

and order books through the Infoeduka system.

Library and reading room membership is obtained by enrollment and it is not necessary to apply for

membership. Library membership is defined by the Book of regulations on library use issued by FER

and reading room membership is regulated by the Book of regulations on study.

Full-time students are entitled to privileges when applying for a National and University Library

Membership Card upon presentation of their student card (X-card).

Forum and how to use itThe University College forum is used exclusively by students and teachers of the University College

and in order to log in identical information is required as for logging into the digital student service.

Forum can be entered via the link published on the college website. On the forum students can

exchange experiences and learning materials or ask for help in solving exercises. The use of forum is

recommended to all students in order to find out more about the experience of earlier generations

and since the forum is also visited by teachers and assistants, students can ask for help or receive

advice through informal contact.

Link: https://student.racunarstvo.hr/pretinac/forum/

Student surveysTwice during each semester students are given the opportunity to express their satisfaction with

studies through anonymous surveys. The first survey is conducted after the first 7 weeks of classes

(at the end of mid-term exam 1), and the second survey is conducted just before the end of semester.

Surveys consist of 5 parts: basic information about students, evaluation of courses, evaluation of

teachers, evaluation of assistants and evaluation of classrooms. Survey of each course is conducted

during exercises and access information necessary for filling out the survey is published within the

Infoeduka system. Surveys are mandatory and important in order to, among other things, analyze the

quality of studies and introduce improvements based on survey results.

Student opinion matters to us


Box for complaints and complimentsDuring their studies, students can share their proposals, suggestions, opinions and thoughts with

persons responsible for the organization and implementation of the study program by using the “box

for complaints and compliments”. This old fashioned metal mailbox is placed near the entrance to

classroom 1. Suggestions, compliments, opinions and impressions can be entered anonymously or

signed. The University College will reply in writing to all persons who submitted their proposal or will

publish its reply through the Infoeduka system or on the college bulletin board in case of anonymous

proposals. The traditional mailbox was chosen deliberately in order to ensure complete anonymity of

students’ remarks and comments.

Students who require certificates of

student status have the opportunity to

print out such certificates through the

Infoeduka system in order to realize

their rights to:

1. transport

2. health insurance

3. supplementary health insurance

4. student employment service.

Printed certificates need to be verified by the student office in order to become legitimate.

For all other certifications required students must contact the student office.

Various regulations and documents defining the rights and obligations of students and statutory

documents of the University College are available on the University College website:

http://www.racunarstvo.hr/studij.aspx?id=1243

Accreditation and certification issued by the Ministry of Science, Education and Sports

On June 5th 2008 the National Council for higher education issued a positive opinion on the request

of the University College for Applied Computer Engineering and the Ministry of Science, Education

and Sports awarded the University College for Applied Computer Engineering with the accreditation

for organization and pursuance for professional higher educational program in the field of applied

computer engineering. This document confirms the accreditation.

Certificate issued by the FER

The University College for Applied Computer Engineering is the only professional higher education

institution in the Republic of Croatia that has been given the certificate “approved by FER” issued by

the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing during the process of evaluation of educational

plan.

Book of regulations on study

In addition to the study contract signed between the student and the University College, the Book

of regulations on study represents one of the key documents that regulate the study during each

academic year. The Book of regulations on study stipulates: admission procedure, enrollment, tuition

fees, scholarships, admission to higher years of study, disenrollment, duration of classes, contents of

tuition, rights and obligations of students, etc.

Student status certifi cation

List of documents and regulations


Call for admission 2012/2013

The Call for admission contains basic information on admission procedure, quotas and studying at

the University College

Decision on CARNet membership

This document confirms that the University College has been accepted as a full member of the

Croatian Academic and Research Network.

Approval for the use of student X-cards

This approval confirms the right of students to use national student identity X-cards.

Instructions for the use of the Infoeduka system

These instructions are intended for the use of students studying at the University College and provide

easier orientation within the Infoeduka digital student service system. These instructions describe

all tools available to students within this system such as: professionalized schedule, registration and

cancellation of exams, list of exam terms, use of e-mail, overview of courses and finances.

Statutes

The Statutes define status, name, address and activities of the University College for Applied

Computer Engineering. The Statutes describe, among other things, bodies active within the College

and their functions.

Book of regulations on responsibilities and penal measures

This Book of regulations regulates the responsibilities of students studying at the University College

in case of non-fulfillment of obligations, serious infringement of college reputation and responsibility

for violation of legal acts, regulations and decisions. Furthermore, it defines jurisdiction for initiating

proceedings, enforcement of procedures and conduction of disciplinary proceedings.

Book of regulations on quality assurance

The Book of regulations on quality assurance defines the area of evaluation, organization and

operation of the quality assurance system of the University College. Among other things, the Book

of regulations on quality assurance stipulates the organization and operation of the Committee for

Quality Assurance.

Ethical Codex of the University College for Applied Computer Engineering

Ethical Codex of the University College for Applied Computer Engineering presents a set of standards

of conduct containing moral principles and principles of professional ethics which need to be

followed by students, teachers and other employees of the University College for Applied Computer

Engineering during their professional and public activities.

Development strategy

Development strategy of the University College includes key strategic objectives and development

tasks, and represents a general development framework of the institution. This strategy is

complemented by sub strategies which cover certain specific areas of development.

This document represents a publicly released shortened version of the college’s development strategy

and contains a strategic framework for development, without the elaboration of sub strategies and

associated action plans.

Book of regulations on library use

The Book of regulations on library use defines library rules and rights and obligations related to the

use of FER’s library.

Book of regulations on final project and final exam

The Book of regulations specifies the format of the final project and rules and procedures for the

application and defense of final paper.

Decision on recognition of industrial certificates

Determines which certificates can be recognized in case of reduction of tuition

fees and exemption from obligations related to relevant courses.

In order to obtain the diploma at the University College, students must pass all exams, complete

other obligations, enter the course entitled “Development of final project / work placement”,

complete professional practice (or have such practice acknowledged), successfully complete the final

project, pass the final practical exam and defend the final paper in accordance with the provisions of

the University College Statutes, Book of regulations on study, Book of regulations on work placement

and Book of regulations on final project and final exam. Students with relevant work experience are

not required to complete professional practice (work placement), but are given the option to have

such work experience acknowledged in accordance with the Book of regulations on work placement.

Such recognition is not done automatically and relevance of previous work experience is estimated in

relation to the topic chosen for the final paper.

The times in which higher educational institutions were interested mainly in conducting classes and

when the university management was mainly interested in assigning teachers to existing courses

are long behind us. Modern educational institutions in countries positioned at the top of the world

competitiveness rankings provide multi-layered functional links between students, their careers,

education, economy and long-term national development strategy. This type of strategic redefinition

became the core concept of the University College for Applied Computer Engineering.

This approach is reflected in the structure of our curriculum which is aligned with labor market needs

and European and global development strategies for IT industry, because we want to prepare our

students for tomorrow’s market and not exclusively for the market of today or the one of yesterday.

In addition, building up careers of each of our students is another important segment developed

through the Career center. The Career center functions as a basic meeting point for students, college

and employers through:

Advisory role in career development from the moment of admission until

the end of studies (a number of formal procedures documented)

Constant student monitoring in collaboration with specialized subject teachers by

guiding the students through curriculum and elective courses according to results and

predispositions demonstrated and by giving them support in mastering the study program

Planning of professional thesis in cooperation with mentors as well as helping

and directing students towards projects conducted by future employers

At the same time the Career center collaborates intensively with employers through:

Active work with their internal mentors responsible for career development of employees

Special services for employers who award scholarships to students

Selection of the best students for participation in projects, internships and employment

During the past years the University College has built a number of services that make the activities of

the Career center function successfully. This refers to the IT infrastructure of the digital student service

and the supporting ELAP (electronic academic portfolio) system that is currently being developped.

This way, students will be enabled to present their CV’s as well as their own skills and experiences

Final project and student practice (work placement)

Career center


Student leisure time

supplied with the information on the quality of study through the display of points and grades

obtained in each course, matrix of passed certificate exams, records of attendance and authorized

references given by teachers and project leaders. ELAP will be connected with employment offices in

order to expand the potential for cooperation in projects and employment of students and include

special services for employers collaborating with the College. ELAP is currently in its final stage of

development.

Student CouncilIn the beginning of 2010 the University College Student Council was founded at the initiative

of students, with support from the University College. The Student Council gathers all students

interested in establishing and deepening communication between students themselves as well as

between various organizations that connect students from different colleges, such as organized

sports competitions, traveling and other activities.

One of the most important aims of the Student Council is the revival of student life outside of the

formal framework of lectures and exercises. Members of the Student Council are happy to assist

by tutoring all interested students with the help of assistants. Intense two-way communication is

achieved through workshops and generational proximity of younger assistants and students allows

for a friendly environment which further enhances the learning quality and exchange of knowledge

and experience.

The Student Council participates in sports competitions, organizes LAN parties and various thematic

meetings in their premises located within the University College buildings and participates in the

organization of travels, recreational trips, appearances at technological conferences, etc.

In 2010, the students’ association (Kasper) was founded in order to gather students who organize

activities aimed at improving the quality of study and mutual communication between generations.

These students also help in promoting the University College at various events such as The University

of Zagreb Fair and sports competitions. Notifications of meetings are announced on the forum, and

each new student can join the association. By joining the students’ association the student takes

responsibilities in fulfillment of tasks accepted.

SportsThe University College takes particular care of sports activities organized for students and employees.

With this purpose, the University College Commissioner for Sports organizes and takes care of

various sports activities. The Student Council, in cooperation with the Commissioner for Sports,

participates in the organization and preparation of students for their successful performance at sports

competitions organized by the University of Zagreb Sport Federation. At this moment we participate

in five-a-side soccer and basketball. Every spring, the University College Sports games are organized

and due to the existing rivalry between system and software engineering students the atmosphere

is already heated. In addition to that, other sports initiatives are organized on a monthly basis (e.g.

student chess tournaments, skiing, etc.).

The college also provides free use of sports hall for all students of the University College regardless of

membership in sports teams or students’ association. Students will be notified through the Infoeduka

system of the time and place scheduled for usage.

As a holder of the Extended ERASMUS University Charter, the University College for Applied

Computer Engineering enables an exceptional experience of studying and living abroad and offers

financial support that completely covers all tuition costs and is available through agreements with

various foreign universities and faculties. This means that it is possible to study at a foreign institution

of choice for one semester without paying any further tuition fees in addition to regular tuition.

Students can apply for a study visit during a period of 3 to 12 months with acknowledgement of

ECTS points obtained at the foreign institution. Students typically choose one semester as the period

for their study visit. This may be the 5th or 6th semester of the third study year or the graduation

semester. This opportunity is offered to both full-time and part-time students and visiting students

will assume all obligations of full-time students studying at the foreign institution. In addition to

tuition fee coverage, additional financial support is provided for students who choose to study

abroad in the amount of 200€ to 400€ per month. This amount is used to cover subsidence costs,

travel, accommodation and insurance costs.

In addition to study visits, students can apply for professional practice (work placement) conducted

abroad during a period of 3 to 12 months. This opportunity is offered to both full-time and part-

time students, and is usually chosen during the graduation semester. In this case, financial support

is also offered in the amount of 200€ to 400€ per month in order to cover subsidence costs, travel,

accommodation and insurance costs.

In order to participate in international student exchange (study visit or professional practice abroad)

students can apply to calls announced by the Career center through the Infoeduka system. In general,

students should apply for international student exchange 4 to 6 months in advance..

In accordance with the Book of regulations on study, the protection of student rights is ensured as

follows;

• The student has the right to file a complaint regarding the grade achieved in the exam unless the

exam was taken in front of a committee. The complaint needs to be submitted in writing to the

University College Dean not later than one working day upon the date of the exam. The Dean will

appoint a three-member teachers’ committee for exam implementation.

• Students of the University College are entitled to information related to their studies and any

other relevant information the University College might have at its disposal and which should be

made available to students in accordance with the University College acts and the Croatian law.

• Students have the right to make anonymous or non-anonymous comments, suggestions,

complaints and objections at any time by using the box provided for such comments,

suggestions or complaints or by contacting the student office employees in writing or orally.

Each proposal, suggestion or complaint received will be discussed according to the Book of

Regulations on quality assurance.

• In order to exercise the right to information or to seek help in protecting their rights, students

can contact student office employees, and in case students are for any reason dissatisfied with

the information received or consider the information incomplete the Vice Dean for Education is

to be responsible for students’ questions and for giving instructions and information regarding

protection of student rights.

The Student Ombudsman is responsible for protection and promotion of student rights.

International student exchange

Protection of student rights

24 Algebra College – University College for Applied Computer Engineering –www.racunarstvo.hr

Algebra – University College for Applied Computer EngineeringAddress:

Ilica 242, 10000 Zagreb

www.racunarstvo.hr

Student offi ceHead of Student office

Josipa Vukelić

Working hours:

Mon 16:00 - 19:00

Tue 14:00 - 17:00

Wed, Thu, Fri 9:00 - 12:00

ContactsTelephone:

385 (0)1 2222 182

385 (0)1 2332 861

Fax:

385 (0)1 2222 183

E-mail:

[email protected]

[email protected]

Career centerHead of Career center

Renato Barišić

385 (0)1 2222 180

[email protected]

Contacts

Address: Ilica 242, Zagreb

Tel: +385 (0)1 2222 182

+385 (0)1 2331 861 (Algebra call centar)

Email: [email protected]

www.racunarstvo.hr

Documents

Student Guide 2012