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DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

UNDERGRADUATE HANDBOOK 2020-2021

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Contents: 1 Welcome to UCL ............................................................................................................................................................... 3

2 Introduction to the department and parent faculty ......................................................................................................... 5

3 Departmental staff related to the programme ................................................................................................................. 7

4 Key dates ........................................................................................................................................................................... 8

5 Hours of Study ................................................................................................................................................................. 10

6 Our expectations of students.......................................................................................................................................... 11

7 Programme structure ...................................................................................................................................................... 12

8 Tutorials and supervision ................................................................................................................................................ 15

9 Advice on choosing module options and electives ......................................................................................................... 15

10 Changes to Registration Status ....................................................................................................................................... 19

11 Progression, Award and Classification ............................................................................................................................ 21

12 Information on assessment ............................................................................................................................................ 23

13 Extenuating Circumstances and Reasonable Adjustments ............................................................................................. 30

14 Learning resources and key facilities .............................................................................................................................. 34

15 Student support and wellbeing ....................................................................................................................................... 37

16 Employability and Careers .............................................................................................................................................. 42

17 Student representation ................................................................................................................................................... 44

18 Student feedback ............................................................................................................................................................ 47

19 ChangeMakers ................................................................................................................................................................ 49

20 Student Quality Reviewers (SQR) .................................................................................................................................... 50

21 Data Protection ............................................................................................................................................................... 51

22 Health, Safety and Security ............................................................................................................................................. 52

23 After study ...................................................................................................................................................................... 53

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1 Welcome to UCL

Provost’s Welcome Dear students To those of you who are returning, welcome back. To those of you who are new, congratulations for choosing UCL as your university. Whatever your degree programme, your UCL education offers fantastic opportunities to stretch your intellect, expand your experience and develop your skills. The global experience of Covid-19 will require some adjustments to our activities, but it also reinforces the vital importance of our distinctive UCL approach. We want you to learn how to think, not what to think, through research-led learning. We call this the Connected Curriculum. Our students are partners, collaborators and contributors – supervised and informed by world-leading academic staff, working together to pursue excellence, break boundaries and make an impact on real world problems. Championing innovation, creativity and collaboration across our uniquely broad range of faculties and disciplines is proving vital to combating the Covid-19 pandemic, and will remain fundamental to the future of our world. You can find the latest UCL information on the Coronavirus at: www.ucl.ac.uk/coronavirus As we embark on the next academic year, UCL will ensure that the restrictions and negative effects of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 do not prevent the full enjoyment of teaching and learning and of a unique student experience. We will make sure that as a student you connect well with people (peers, teachers, researchers, and other UCL communities); with knowledge and research (in the form of carefully curated resources); and with the wider world. We are ready to deliver this unique Connected Learning approach through enhanced online resources and remote teaching, as well as through face-to-face teaching on campus, as soon as that is possible. I warmly encourage you to shape your journey at UCL. Take our university-wide surveys and make your voice heard. Become a ChangeMaker or an Academic Representative and work in partnership with academics to make your programme of study even better. You’ll also have opportunities to learn outside your degree programme. Get involved with amazing volunteering opportunities (coordinated by the Volunteering Service) and make a difference locally. Investigate opportunities for entrepreneurship through UCL Innovation and Enterprise. UCL is first and foremost a community of great minds. You are a valuable member of that community. I hope you will take every opportunity to shape your time with us, so that your experience is the best possible. Professor Michael Arthur UCL President and Provost

http://www.ucl.ac.uk/coronavirus

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Covid-19: Possible Changes to Information

UCL will do all it can to support you during the on-going Covid-19 pandemic and please be assured that your safety is our top priority. However, we would ask you to please be aware that the information and advice provided in this handbook/Moodle pages may be subject to change. In order for us to be as agile and responsive to your needs as possible, the most current information on services affected by Covid-19 is available on the UCL website and can be accessed from the main Students’ webpages. This also includes Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) which may help you with any queries that you may have. Advice and guidance on the support available to you can also be found on the Student Support and Wellbeing webpages. When the campus is open, you can also access support from the Student Enquiries Centre, though please note that this may need to physically close depending on circumstances. However, you can also log a query with UCL’s new online enquiries system and self-help centre, askUCL, which is always open. Please remember that your department can also help with many queries, particularly questions about your programme or modules, so please check with them where you should enquire. Further information:

• Departmental website: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates

• Key contact: math.ugteaching@ucl.ac.uk

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/support-during-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreakhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/support-during-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreakhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/life-ucl/student-enquiries-centrehttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/askucl-student-enquiry-systemhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduatesmailto:math.ugteaching@ucl.ac.uk

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2 Introduction to the department and parent faculty

Introduction to the department and its history The Mathematics Department is situated at the corner of Gower Place and Gordon Street on the main College site. It occupies floors four to eight above the Students' Union and consists of lecture rooms, academic offices and the departmental office. There is also a student common room and a quiet study room with a small student library. The Mathematics Department at UCL is an internationally renowned department within one of the world's most prestigious universities. It has a research rating in the official UK league tables comparable with that of Oxford and Cambridge. The department's reputation dates from 1826 when it was one of the founding departments of UCL, and as such is the third oldest mathematics department in England. Since its beginning, mathematics at UCL has been enhanced by its many outstanding members of staff. Indeed two of its students (and later staff) Professor Klaus Roth (1958) and Professor Alan Baker (1970) have gone on to win the Fields Medal, the mathematician's equivalent of the Nobel Prize. Another former member of staff Professor Tim Gowers won the Fields Medal in 1998 for work he did whilst at UCL. Since 2011, the department has grown considerably, and now teaches almost 800 undergraduate students. The number of full-time academic members of staff has also expanded to over 60, of whom at least half are full professors, in addition to a number of Honorary members of staff, including four Fellows of the Royal Society. The department also has several Postdoctoral Research Fellows, around 80 PhD students, and 50 MSc students. We also welcome a regular stream of distinguished visiting academics from home and abroad. The broad range of research interests is reflected in the large choice of courses available in the third and fourth years of the degree programmes, from computational geometry to fluid mechanics and from mathematical ideas in biology to cosmology. The original prospectus for the Mathematics Department in 1826 stated: The Mathematical Sciences are so justly valued as a discipline of the reasoning faculties, and as an unerring measure of human advancement, that the commendation of them might seem disrespectful to the judgement of the reader, if they did not afford by far the most striking instance of the dependence of the most common and useful arts upon abstruse reasoning. The elementary propositions of Geometry were once merely speculative; but those to whom their subserviency to the speed and safety of voyages, is now familiar, will be slow to disparage any truth for the want of present and palpable usefulness. Nearly all of this remains as true today as then.

Explanation of the relationship between department and faculty Encompassing the logical, experimental and mathematical study of our universe, UCL Faculty of Mathematical & Physical Sciences consists of eight departments active in teaching and researching broad areas of science. These include Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Physics & Astronomy, Statistical Science, and Mathematics, among others. The faculty also provides a base for a number of research centres and institutes: these facilitate in-depth and interdisciplinary research through collaboration between experts within MAPS, and in related areas in Engineering Sciences and Life Sciences. In addition, the faculty has its own interdepartmental undergraduate degree programme: Natural Sciences. Front-line research feeds directly into our teaching programmes, and our students benefit from access to first-class facilities. All departments in the faculty are involved in teaching. The faculty offers an array of

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three-year BSc and four-year Masters-level MSci degrees in emerging as well as more traditional academic areas.

Key staff members within the department Head of Department Prof HJ Wilson Deputy Head of Department Dr JM Talbot Departmental Tutor Dr ML Roberts Admissions Tutor Dr RI Bowles Chair of Maths Joint Honours Exams Sub-Boards Dr M Towers Chair of the Maths Exams Sub-Board Prof D Vassiliev Academic SoRA Liaison Contact Dr L Garcia Martinez Chair of the Departmental Teaching Committee Dr N Sidorova Mid-Sessional Exams Coordinator Dr T Betcke Postgraduate Tutor (Pure Maths) Dr JM Talbot Postgraduate Tutor (Applied Maths) Dr CG Boehmer Postgraduate Tutor (MSc Mathematical Modelling) Dr SN Timoshin Postgraduate Tutor (MSc Financial Mathematics) Dr A Macrina Affiliate Tutor Assoc Prof L Louder Contact details can be found on the Mathematics departmental website and noticeboards in the department. Further information:

• Key contacts: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/people

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/people

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3 Departmental staff related to the programme Key staff involved in programme delivery

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4 Key dates

Term dates, exam/assessment period, core activities (Centrally Provided)

4.1.1 UCL Term Dates: 2020/21

Term Dates

First Term Monday 28 September 2020 to Friday 18 December 2020

Second Term Monday 11 January 2021 to Friday 26 March 2021

Third Term Monday 26 April 2021 to Friday 11 June 2021

For those departments that operate them, Reading Weeks are the weeks beginning Monday 09 November 2020 and Monday 15 February 2021.

UCL Closure Dates

Christmas College Closure Close 5.30pm Friday 18 December 2020

Open 9.00am Monday 04 January 2021

Easter College Closure Close 5.30pm Thursday 1 April 2021

Open 9.00am Thursday 8 April 2021

Bank Holidays Closed - Monday 03 May 2021

Closed - Monday 31 May 2021

Closed - Monday 30 August 2021

Further information:

• Term Dates 2020-21

4.1.2 UCL Examination Periods 2020-21 January Period: 11 – 21 January 2021 Main Examination Period: 26 April 2021 –28 May 2021 Late Summer Assessment Period: 23 August 2021 – 10 September 2021 Students will be notified of other assessment periods as relevant for the modules they study

How UCL and the department will communicate with students (Central and Local) UCL will communicate with students via:

• UCL student email – Students should check their UCL email regularly: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/isd/services/email-calendar

• UCL Moodle – UCL's online learning space, used by module organisers, programme leaders, departments and faculties to provide essential information in addition to learning resources: https://moodle.ucl.ac.uk/

• myUCL – A weekly term-time e-newsletter to all students (undergraduate and postgraduate) at UCL, which covers key internal announcements, events and opportunities: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/student-news/what-myucl

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/life-ucl/term-dates-and-closures/term-dates-and-closures-2020-21http://www.ucl.ac.uk/isd/services/email-calendarhttps://moodle.ucl.ac.uk/https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/student-news/what-myucl

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• UCL Instagram – UCL’s official Instagram channel, featuring news, events, competitions and images from across the UCL community: https://www.instagram.com/ucl/

• @UCL Twitter channel – Sharing highlights of life at UCL from across UCL’s diverse community: https://twitter.com/ucl

• Mathematics Department Twitter channel – Sharing news and events for the department:

https://twitter.com/mathematicsucl

https://www.instagram.com/ucl/https://twitter.com/uclhttps://twitter.com/mathematicsucl

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5 Hours of Study

Hours of study (Central and Local) The primary method of teaching and learning in the Mathematics Department is by means of lectures, reinforced by coursework, problem classes, small group tutorials, self-study, peer-assisted learning (PAL), discussion with other students, and discussion with staff on an individual basis. Members of academic staff may have specified office hours where they are able to meet with students individually, or they may be able to arrange times for such meetings on an ad hoc basis. Some courses also involve computer work, and some have a substantial project component. Students are also expected to undertake some independent study with their time that is not occupied by timetabled teaching. Full Time undergraduate course typically consists of 40 hours of work per week during term time. This time is made up of formal learning and teaching events such as lectures, seminars and tutorials, as well as independent study. The departmental office has opening hours from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Attendance requirements (Centrally Provided)

5.2.1 Attendance Requirements UCL has agreed that the 70% attendance requirement will be suspended for the 2020-21 academic session due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Departments will continue to meet all other requirements where possible as per the Academic Manual. UCL is planning to introduce a central student attendance system for the start of the Second Term 2020-21 as part of a project called Here to Succeed. The system will be supported by a new attendance recording policy. Regulatory requirements in Chapter 3: Section 3 of the Academic Manual will be amended to reflect the new system. Further information:

• Here to Succeed FAQ’s Page

5.2.2 Tier 4 students: Absence from teaching and learning activities In line with UCL’s obligations under UK immigration laws, students who hold a Tier 4 visa must obtain authorisation for any absence from teaching or assessment activities. UCL is required to report to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and engagement monitoring is undertaken by departments at regular points during a student’s registration. This is not only to meet the UKVI requirements, but also to identify any problems as early as possible to ensure action is taken to advise or assist the student.

Further information:

• Academic Manual Chapter 3, Section 3: Attendance and Absence

• UCL Immigration and Visas

• Tier 4 Engagement Monitoring: Temporary policy in response to Covid-19

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/teaching-learning/education-strategy/1-personalising-student-support/here-succeed/frequently-asked-questionshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-3-attendance-and-absencehttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-3-attendance-and-absencehttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/immigration-and-visashttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/sites/students/files/tier_4_engagement_monitoring_policy_2020-21_0.pdf

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6 Our expectations of students UCL enjoys a reputation as a world-class university. It was founded on the basis of equal opportunity, being the first English university to admit students irrespective of their faith and cultural background and the first to admit women. UCL expects its members to refrain from interfering with the proper functioning or activities of UCL, or of those who work or study at UCL. Students should ensure they read and familiarise themselves with UCL’s Student Code of Conduct and other related policies and should be aware that any inappropriate behaviour may lead to actions under UCL’s Student Disciplinary Procedures.

Further information:

• UCL Code of Conduct for Students

• UCL Disciplinary Code and Procedure in Respect of Students

• UCL Policy on Harassment and Bullying

• UCL Code of Practice on Freedom of Speech

• Religion and Belief Equality Policy for Students

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-6-student-casework-frameworkhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-6-student-casework-frameworkhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-6-student-casework-frameworkhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/policies/conduct/harassment-and-bullying-policyhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/srs/sites/srs/files/ucl_code_of_practice_on_freedom_of_speech_v1.0.pdfhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/srs/sites/srs/files/ucl_code_of_practice_on_freedom_of_speech_v1.0.pdfhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/policies/equality/religion

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7 Programme structure

The structure of the programme, duration, credits, qualification(s)

7.1.1 General Rules Credits All full-time undergraduate students take 120 credits of modules each year (you cannot take more or less than this). Most modules are 15 credits, so most students take 8 modules each year, although some modules are 30 credits. [15 credits was previously called 0.5 units.] Levels All modules have a level, which is 4, 5, 6 or 7. Roughly speaking, these correspond to first, second, third and fourth year level [and were previously called First, Intermediate, Advanced and M level], although the modules you take in a given year may not be all at that level. For the (3-year) BSc degree, you must take at least 90 credits at level 6 or above. For the (4-year) MSci you must also take at least 120 credits at level 7. Note: (i) It does not matter from this point of view if modules are mathematics or from other departments. (ii) For both degrees, you also must not take more than 150 credits at level 4. All standard third year mathematics modules are at level 6: so are some of the standard second year options. You may need to check the level of modules from other departments. Most students will automatically take at least 90 credits at advanced level, but if you are doing a combined degree and/or taking outside options you may need to careful about this. Some of the level 7 modules are available in Year 3 as well as in Year 4. It is recommended that MSci students take at least one level 7 module in year 3 to give them more flexibility in choices in Year 4. All modules taken in Year 4 must be at level 7 or 6. Further information:

• Specific degree structures: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options/specific-degree-structures Progression/graduation In order to progress to the next year of the degree/graduate you need to pass all modules. Thus you need to: (i) pass 120 credits in year 1 to progress to year 2 (ii) pass 240 credits to progress to year 3 (iii) pass 360 credits to graduate with the BSc (iv) pass 360 credits and achieve an overall 2i or first class level to progress to year 4 (v) pass 480 credits to graduate with the MSci. This applies to both new and continuing students. However, please also see next section. Condonement Most fails can be condoned, i.e. counted as passes. Up to 30 credits can be condoned each year, with a maximum for the whole degree of 60 credits. Some modules are non-condonable: these are the compulsory first year maths modules, some other compulsory first year modules, and the fourth year project. If a module is not condoned (e.g. it is non-condonable, or you have too many fails), it may be re-sat, normally in the late summer assessment period (if more than 60 credits are failed, a student will need to re-sit in the following year).

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options/specific-degree-structureshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options/specific-degree-structures

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You also need to have an overall mean mark of at least 40% for the year to progress/graduate. [NB Students who started before 2018: past fail marks on any module will be condonable.] Choice of options More specific rules on choice of options are given on the departmental website at https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options. See in particular the link to specific degree structures. However, all choices must also follow the rules above. Part-time study (i) Year 1/2: 60 credits are taken each year from the year 1 full-time diet; (ii) Year 3/4: 30 credits of compulsory modules and 30 credits of optional modules from the year 2 full-time diet are taken each year; (iii) Year 5/6: 60 credits from the full time year 3 diet are taken each year.

Information on study abroad options

7.2.1 Study Abroad A limited number of students may be sent abroad under the auspices of the Study Abroad Programme. The International Office provides assistance and support. The department has an Erasmus exchange programme with Universite de Nantes and Universite de Bordeaux. It participates in the International Office Exchanges. Independent study abroad is not supported by the Mathematics Department. Before contacting the Study Abroad Tutor Associate Prof Lars Louder (l.louder AT ucl.ac.uk), please read the information below and read the information on the college's website for information regarding studying abroad. (i) To be eligible to study abroad you must be registered for an MSci. The period of study abroad will be one year and it will take place during the third of your four year programme. You will be required to register your interest in studying abroad by the end of November of your second year and you will then follow UCL's Study Abroad Preparation Programme during the spring term. The Departmental Form should be filled in the Autumn and well before the International Office deadline. (ii) First class results from Year 1 are required. For prestigious North American universities, extremely high first class results are required. (iii) As study abroad forms an integral part of your UCL programme you will be expected, in the main, to study courses directly related to your degree. The exact courses you take will be agreed by you and your Study Abroad Tutor. You will need to put some time into researching the available courses at the institution of your choice and this process should begin as soon as possible. You should not submit an application to study abroad until you have established that the host institution you wish to apply to offers courses compatible with the requirements of your UCL degree. The Department will support the application of a student, only when we are convinced that the modules taken in the foreign university match well with the student's UCL programme of study. It is the responsibility of the student to present such evidence.

• Go Abroad: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/go-abroad

7.2.2 Information on internships from UCL Careers

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-optionshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/go-abroad

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UCL has web resources, a student toolkit and bookable appointments for students to support them with applications for internships, and guidance in sourcing opportunities. Please note that this information may be subject to change due to Covid-19 – please check the Internships website below for the most up-to-date information.

Further information:

• Internships

Key contacts in the department and faculty for assistance with any of the above Dr Mark Roberts: Departmental Tutor Email: m.l.roberts@ucl.ac.uk Associate Prof Lars Louder: Study Abroad and Affiliate Tutor Email: l.louder@ucl.ac.uk The Teaching and Learning Administrative team can be reached at math.ugteaching@ucl.ac.uk. Harry Donnelly: Senior Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Administrator E-mail: h.donnelly@ucl.ac.uk Sukh Thiara: Senior Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Administrator E-mail: s.thiara@ucl.ac.uk Sam Hopkins: Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Administrator Email: s.hopkins@ucl.ac.uk Lana Shiel: Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Administrator Email: l.shiel@ucl.ac.uk

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/careers/internshipsmailto:m.l.roberts@ucl.ac.ukmailto:l.louder@ucl.ac.ukmailto:math.ugteaching@ucl.ac.ukmailto:h.donnelly@ucl.ac.ukmailto:s.thiara@ucl.ac.ukmailto:s.hopkins@ucl.ac.ukmailto:l.shiel@ucl.ac.uk

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8 Tutorials and supervision

What students can expect in terms of academic and personal tutoring

Academic and Personal Tutoring UCL is committed to providing all students with the academic guidance and personal support that they need to flourish as members of our active learning and research community. As part of the wider support infrastructure provided by a programme, every undergraduate or taught postgraduate student will be assigned a member of staff who can provide constructive academic and personal development guidance and support. At the start of the year, students will be provided with the name of their personal tutor, and information about how meetings will work. Students are encouraged to be proactive in engaging with their Personal Tutor: make sure you reply to emails from your personal tutor in a timely manner and always let them know if you can’t attend a meeting. It’s important to build a relationship with your tutor so that you feel comfortable approaching them, should problems arise. Your personal tutor can also provide academic references for you, which is an important reason to build a professional relationship with them. Please note that this information may be subject to change due to Covid-19 – please check the Personal Tutoring webpage below for the most up-to-date information.

Further information:

• Personal Tutors

Transition Mentors (Centrally Provided) (first-year UG only)

Transition Mentors The UCL Transition Programme supports new first-year students at UCL, helping them to settle in quickly and achieve their potential. Each first-year student is assigned a Transition Mentor for their first term. Transition mentors are later-year students within each department who work with small groups of students on a weekly basis to help them settle in to UCL and London as well as focussing on academic issues and topics specific to their degree programme. First-year students meet their Transition Mentor during the first week of term at their department’s ‘Meet your Mentor’ session. Please note that this information may be subject to change due to Covid-19 – please check the UCL Transition Mentors webpage below for the most up to date information.

Further information:

• UCL Transition Mentors

Departmental Tutor The Departmental Tutor is Dr Mark Roberts (e-mail: m.l.roberts@ucl.ac.uk). You are welcome to contact him at any time. He takes overall responsibility for your attendance and progress, and you may sometimes be asked to see him. He will deal with any formal matters such as change of degree programme or module, applications for access funds, registration, leaving the programme or withdrawal from exams.

8.4 Teaching and Learning Administrators The Teaching and Learning Administrative team can be reached at math.ugteaching@ucl.ac.uk. Harry Donnelly: Senior Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Administrator

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/academic-support/personal-tutorshttp://www.ucl.ac.uk/transitionmailto:m.l.roberts@ucl.ac.ukmailto:math.ugteaching@ucl.ac.uk

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E-mail: h.donnelly@ucl.ac.uk Sukh Thiara: Senior Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Administrator E-mail: s.thiara@ucl.ac.uk Sam Hopkins: Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Administrator Email: s.hopkins@ucl.ac.uk Lana Shiel: Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Administrator Email: l.shiel@ucl.ac.uk

mailto:h.donnelly@ucl.ac.ukmailto:s.thiara@ucl.ac.ukmailto:s.hopkins@ucl.ac.ukmailto:l.shiel@ucl.ac.uk

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9 Advice on choosing module options and electives

Choosing modules

9.1.1 Choosing Modules

Modules are the individual units of study which lead to the award of credit. Many programmes offer students the opportunity to choose between different modules that they are interested in. However some new students will find they do not need to make selections as all their modules are compulsory. If students need to choose modules, their department will advise them of how and when to do this, usually during departmental introductions.

9.1.2 UCL Module Catalogue

UCL‘s new Module Catalogue gives access to a comprehensive catalogue of all modules across the whole of UCL, published in a consistent, searchable and accessible format.

Further information:

• Module Catalogue

9.1.3 Module Selection and Verification Deadlines

After enrolment, students need to select the modules which they will be studying for the coming year. Changes must be approved and cannot be guaranteed. There need to be places available on the module and the changes need to be consistent with the student’s Programme Diet.

Further information:

• Module Registration

9.1.4 Change of Module Selection

If a student wishes to change a module selection, requests need to be submitted and approved by the department. Exact deadlines will be published each year in the ‘Module Selection Task’ on Portico. On Online Programmes, exact deadlines will be set, managed and communicated by the Department. Please email the Departmental Tutor with any module change request.

Further information:

• Portico Login

• Academic Manual Chapter 3, Section 2: Module Selection

Degree options As can be seen from the specific degree structure documents, all students on Mathematics degrees have some options in year 3, and most have an option in year 2. To help you choose your options, please see, in addition to the degree structures, the Module Pathways webpage below, to see modules within their subject areas, and how they depend on each other. The unbroken lines show the normal required pre-requisites for each module and dotted lines the recommended pre-requisites. Please note that: (i) there will be alternative pre-requisites for students not on Mathematics degrees; (ii) if you are on a Mathematics degree and wish to take a module without having taken the required pre-requisites, you should discuss this with the lecturer and/or the Departmental Tutor. Before you choose your options, you may find it useful to look at the syllabuses (https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/module-information-

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/module-catalogue/?collection=drupal-module-catalogue&facetsort=alpha&num_ranks=20&daat=10000&sort=titlehttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/student-status/module-registrationhttps://evision.ucl.ac.uk/urd/sits.urd/run/siw_lgnhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-2-module-selectionhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/module-information-undergraduates

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undergraduates) and past exam papers at the UCL Library website (https://www.ucl.ac.uk/library/e-resources-ucl). Further Information:

• Specific degree structures: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options/specific-degree-structures

• Mathematics options: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options/undergraduate-mathematics

• Module pathways: http://www.homepages.ucl.ac.uk/~ucahmto/pathways.htm

• Rules for degrees, including restrictions on the levels of modules that must be taken: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options/general-rules-degrees

• Outside options: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/detailed-degree-information/outside-options

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/module-information-undergraduateshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/library/e-resources-uclhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/library/e-resources-uclhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options/specific-degree-structureshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options/specific-degree-structureshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options/undergraduate-mathematicshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options/undergraduate-mathematicshttp://www.homepages.ucl.ac.uk/~ucahmto/pathways.htmhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options/general-rules-degreeshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/degree-structures-and-options/general-rules-degreeshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/detailed-degree-information/outside-optionshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/detailed-degree-information/outside-options

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10 Changes to Registration Status

Information on how to change, interrupt or withdraw from a programme (Centrally Provided)

Changes to Registration Students wishing to make changes to their registration status should first discuss their plans with their Personal Tutor or Supervisor who can explain the options available and help students to make the right decision. If undergraduate students then wish to make a change, they should then consult the Departmental Tutor Dr Mark Roberts. Students should also ensure that they read the relevant sections of the UCL Academic Manual before making any requests to change their academic record. Applications must be made in advance of the effective date of change.

10.1.1 Changing modules

If a student wishes to make changes to their individual modules they will need to do so by the deadlines in the Key Dates section. Students should contact their Department Office as soon as possible as all changes will need to be approved.

Further information:

• Changing your degree programme or modules

• Academic Manual Chapter 3, Section 2: Module Selection

10.1.2 Changing programme

If a student wishes to transfer from one UCL degree programme to another, they must make a formal application. The usual deadline for change of degree programme during the academic session is the end of October each year (for students registering in September, with a later date for students registering in January) to be compatible with module selection deadlines, although later transfers may be possible, where the transfer does not affect module selections. Students should log in to their Portico account and complete the online application. Students are strongly advised to discuss their plan with the departments involved before requesting a change of programme on Portico.

Further information:

• Changing your degree programme or modules

• Academic Manual Chapter 3, Section 6 Programme Transfers

10.1.3 Interruption of studies

If a student requires a temporary break from their studies and plans to resume their programme at a future date, they must apply for a formal Interruption of Study.

Further information:

• Interrupting or withdrawing from your studies

• Academic Manual Chapter 3, Section 5: Interruption of Study

10.1.4 Withdrawing from a programme

If a student wishes to leave their degree programme prior to completing their final examinations they must apply for a formal withdrawal from their studies. Applications must be made in advance of the effective date of change. Students should log in to their Portico account and complete the online application.

Further information:

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/status/change-your-studies/change-your-degree-programme-or-moduleshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/status/change-your-studies/change-your-degree-programme-or-moduleshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-2-module-selectionhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/status/change-your-studies/change-your-degree-programme-or-moduleshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-6-programme-transfershttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-6-programme-transfershttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/student-status/changes-your-studies/interrupting-or-withdrawing-your-studieshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-5-interruption-studyhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-5-interruption-study

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• Interrupting or withdrawing from your studies

• Academic Manual Chapter 3, Section 8: Withdrawing from a programme

10.1.5 Informing the Student Loans Company of changes to your student status

If a student makes a change to their programme or registration status during the course of the academic year, it is important that the Student Loans Company (SLC) is notified. The SLC can then re-assess and update its records. Changes could include a student withdrawing from their academic programme, an interruption in studies or transferring to a new programme. The SLC must also be notified when there is a change in mode of study or when a student has returned from an interruption. To inform the SLC of a change in your student status, a Change of Circumstance (CoC) form must be completed online by your Faculty. See the Key Contacts section for details of who to contact in the Faculty if you require a CoC form to be submitted on your behalf or if you have any related queries.

Key contacts in the department and faculty for assistance with any of the above Dr Mark Roberts: Departmental Tutor Email: m.l.roberts@ucl.ac.uk The Teaching and Learning Administrative team can be reached at math.ugteaching@ucl.ac.uk. Harry Donnelly: Senior Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Administrator E-mail: h.donnelly@ucl.ac.uk Sukh Thiara: Senior Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Administrator E-mail: s.thiara@ucl.ac.uk Sam Hopkins: Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Administrator Email: s.hopkins@ucl.ac.uk Lana Shiel: Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Administrator Email: l.shiel@ucl.ac.uk

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/student-status/changes-your-studies/interrupting-or-withdrawing-your-studieshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-8-withdrawing-programmemailto:m.l.roberts@ucl.ac.ukmailto:math.ugteaching@ucl.ac.ukmailto:h.donnelly@ucl.ac.ukmailto:s.thiara@ucl.ac.ukmailto:s.hopkins@ucl.ac.ukmailto:l.shiel@ucl.ac.uk

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11 Progression, Award and Classification

Information on how a student progresses through the programme – what does a student need to complete and pass to be awarded a degree, what are the consequences of unsatisfactory progress UCL’s Progression and Award Requirements define how many credits and modules students need to pass to progress from one year of study to the next and to be awarded a UCL qualification. Please refer to Chapter 4, Section 9 of the Academic Manual for the college framework regarding progression and award. Please also refer to section 7 of this Student Handbook for departmental regulations regarding the credits required from students to progress through the degree course and be conferred a degree qualification, including information regarding condonement Further information:

• Academic Manual: Progression and Award: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-9-progression-award

• Progression: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/progression-next-year

Modern Foreign Language requirement Please note that the Modern Foreign Language Requirement is under review – please check with your personal tutor or programme leader if you have any queries about the requirement. Further information:

• Academic Manual: Progression and Award: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-9-progression-award

How will marks be combined to reach a classification? Students who have successfully completed the Progression and Award Requirements will be awarded a Classification. The UCL Academic Manual (Chapter 4, Section 10: Classification) defines the Classification Schemes for each qualification. All module results count towards the final degree classification. The year averages will be calculated as follows: Students who started before 2018: Year 1: [Sum of best 60 credits + (1/2) sum of remaining 60 credits]/6 i.e. worst 4 half-units are half-weighted Year 2 and 3: [Sum of best 90 credits + (1/2) sum of remaining 30 credits]/6 i.e. worst 2 half-units are half-weighted Year 4: Mean of all 120 credits Students who started in 2018 or later: All years: the year average is simply the mean of all 120 credits

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-9-progression-awardhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-9-progression-awardhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/progression-next-yearhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/progression-next-yearhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-9-progression-awardhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-9-progression-award

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The final mark for the degree programme is obtained as a weighted average of these year averages (weighted 1:3:5 for BSc students and 1:3:5:5 for MSci students). The final class of degree is based on this weighted average. Various factors are taken into account, but the following ranges of marks are taken as guidelines for the class of degree normally awarded: 40 - 49: Third 50 - 59: Lower Second 60 - 69: Upper Second 70 - 100: First Firsts, upper and lower seconds, and thirds are all Honours degrees. More specifically, for students starting in 2018 or later the following rules are applied: 40 – 48.49%: Third Borderline lower second/third (48.50 – 49.49%) Less than 60 credits in final year at least 50%: Third At least 60 credits in final year at least 50%: Lower Second 49.50 - 58.49%: Lower Second Borderline upper second/lower second (58.50 – 59.49%) Less than 60 credits in final year at least 60%: Lower Second At least 60 credits in final year at least 60%: Upper Second 59.50 - 68.49%: Upper Second Borderline first/upper second (68.50 – 68.49%) Less than 60 credits in final year at least 70%: Upper Second At least 60 credits in final year at least 70%: First 69.49 – 100%: First Please be aware that there are further adjustments in place for credits achieved in 2019-20 as a result of changes made due to the coronavirus outbreak. Students should refer to communications sent at the time regarding UCL’s implementation of the no-detriment policy. Further information:

• Academic Manual: Classification: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-10-classification

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-10-classificationhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-10-classification

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12 Information on assessment How will students be assessed?

Assessment is predominantly by formal written exams, held in the summer term. Many courses have a coursework component (often worth 10% of the final grade). It is necessary to attend and do coursework satisfactorily in order to pass a course. If inadequate coursework is attempted, you may be considered "Not complete" and withdrawn from the exam, resulting in automatic failure of that course. Further Information:

• Assessment: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/teaching-and-learning

• Exam information: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/exam-information

What are the marking criteria and learning outcomes? The majority of mathematics assessment are exams-based. Assessments are set to enable students to demonstrate the extent to which they have attained and exceeded the intended learning outcomes of the particular modules that they are studying.

What marking scale is in use on the programme? The Department uses a numeric marking scale for all of its assessments, following the regulations in the UCL Academic Manual, Chapter 4, Section 3.8: Marking Scales. First year honours mathematics modules generally have a 15% coursework component, which is obtained from written coursework, online quizzes, participation and attendance. MATH0010 also has an in-course test which accounts for 5% of the final mark. MATH0011 has a 5% coursework component and 20% programming component. MATH0002 has no coursework but two multiple choice quizzes worth 15% each. For all these first year modules, in order to pass the module you must obtain a mark of at least 40% in both the final mark (exam and coursework combined) and in the exam mark alone. For second year modules, many of these have a coursework component. In order to pass the module you must obtain a mark of at least 40% in both final mark (exam and coursework combined) and in the exam mark alone. Third year and ancillary modules also typically have a coursework component. In all these modules, in order to pass you must obtain a mark of more than 40% for the final combined mark. Fourth year modules can also feature a coursework component. In all these modules, in order to pass you must obtain a mark of more than 50% for the final combined mark. Further information:

• Academic Manual: Module Assessment: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-3-module-assessment

What is feedback, and how will students recognise it (questions in lectures, emails etc.)? How and when will students receive feedback on their work and what will it look like? Students receive feedback on all items of assessed coursework, and on selected items of non-assessed work. Feedback may be given in tutorials, problems classes or electronically. It may take the form of verbal or written comments, individual discussions, group discussions, marker’s answers, model answers or other solutions, and may be either personalised or in the form of general points that emerged from the class as a whole. These comments are intended to help you see what was done well and where there is room for improvement. For assessed work, the comments are also provided to help justify the grade awarded. Feedback will vary between modules and lecturers over the duration of the course. Students are invited to

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/teaching-and-learninghttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/teaching-and-learninghttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/exam-informationhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/exam-informationhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-3-module-assessmenthttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-3-module-assessment

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contact or arrange to meet with their personal tutor or lecturers during office hours if there are particular mathematical ideas, problems, or assessments that they would like to discuss individually. For more information about academic feedback in the Mathematics Department, please refer to the webpage below. Further information:

• Academic Feedback: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/academic-feedback

•

UCL Standard turnaround time for feedback (Centrally Provided)

UCL Feedback Turnaround Policy

Regular feedback is an essential part of every student’s learning. It is UCL policy that all students receive feedback on summative assessments within one calendar month of the submission deadline. This feedback may take the form of written feedback, individual discussions, group discussions, marker’s answers, model answers or other solutions (although students should note that UCL is generally unable to return examination scripts). Students writing dissertations or research projects should also expect to receive feedback on a draft on at least one occasion. If, for whatever reason, a department/division cannot ensure that the one calendar month deadline is met then they will tell students when the feedback will be provided - it is expected that the extra time needed should not exceed one week. Where feedback is not provided within the timescale, students should bring the matter to the attention of their Departmental Tutor or Head of Department.

Further information:

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 8: Assessment Feedback

For written examinations, a link to the UCL Examination Guide for Candidates on the Examinations and Awards website (Centrally Provided)

12.6.1 Examinations

Students must ensure that they are aware of the regulations governing written examinations detailed in the UCL Examination Guide for Candidates on the Examinations and Assessment website.

Further information:

• Examinations and Assessments

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 4: Examinations

12.6.2 Intercollegiate Exams

UCL students taking examinations at other colleges as part of the University of London’s intercollegiate module sharing scheme should refer to the Student Policy outlined in the Academic Manual, Chapter 8 (Annexe 11: “Intercollegiate Module Sharing with other University of London Colleges – Student Policy”).

Further information:

• Academic Manual Chapter 8: Academic Partnerships Framework

For coursework submissions, clear information about where and how to submit work, including details of any electronic submission methods and the technical support available

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/academic-feedbackhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/maths/current-students/current-undergraduates/academic-feedbackhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-8-assessment-feedbackhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-8-assessment-feedbackhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/exams-and-assessmentshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-4-examinationshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-4-examinationshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-8-academic-partnerships-framework

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In many courses regular coursework is set. In most courses, this consists of problem sheets given out to be completed and handed in a week later. The lecturer will make it clear when and where coursework should be submitted. This is a very important part of the course – working on problems is one of the best ways of getting a good understanding of the topics. The sheets can contain both assessed and unassessed questions. You are encouraged to attempt all questions. Some help with that will be available during synchronous classes. You should give in your solutions to the assessed questions on the date requested: your work will be marked and returned to you about one week later. You will receive model solutions for the assessed questions, and some of them may be gone over in class. It is important to look at your marked work (when returned) to see what you got right, what wrong and to note any comments from the marker. All second year Mathematics courses and some third/fourth year courses also have coursework – assessed work may be given every week or less often. The lecturer will make it clear what work is assessed.

Information about penalties for late submissions (Centrally Provided)

Late Submission Penalties Planning, time-management and the meeting of deadlines are part of the personal and professional skills expected of all graduates. For this reason, UCL expects students to submit all coursework by the published deadline date and time, after which penalties will be applied. If a student experiences something which prevents them from meeting a deadline that is sudden, unexpected, significantly disruptive and beyond their control, they should submit an Extenuating Circumstances (EC) Form. If the request is accepted, the student may be granted an extension. If the deadline has already passed, the late submission may be condoned i.e. there will be no penalty for submitting late. In general, it is not possible to submit coursework late and you will obtain a mark of 0 for that exercise sheet. If you have to miss a coursework or cannot submit it on time due to illness or have other extenuating circumstance you should inform the lecturer/problem class teacher. To submit a request for extenuating circumstances, students should speak to the Departmental Tutor Dr Mark Roberts, or a Teaching and Learning Administrator in Room 610. Please refer to the Extenuating Circumstances section of the Student Handbook for more information. Further information:

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 3: Module Assessment

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 6: Extenuating Circumstances

Information about absence from assessment (Centrally Provided)

Absence from Assessment Any student who is absent from an assessment without prior permission will receive a mark of 0.00%/ Grade F unless they formally request to defer their assessment to a later date by submitting a claim for Extenuating Circumstances with appropriate supporting evidence. If Extenuating Circumstances are not approved, the mark of 0.00%/ Grade F will stand and the student will be considered to have made an attempt. In line with UCL’s obligations for students studying under a visa, Tier 4 students must also obtain authorisation for any absence from teaching or assessment activities under the Authorised Absence for Students on a Tier 4 Visa procedures.

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-3-module-assessmenthttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-3-module-assessmenthttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-6-extenuating-circumstances

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Further information:

• Academic Manual Chapter 3, Section 3: Attendance and Absence

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 6: Extenuating Circumstances

Information about word counts and penalties (Centrally Provided)

Word Counts Assignment briefs will include clear instructions about word counts, the inclusion of footnotes, diagrams, images, tables, figures and bibliographies etc. Students are expected to adhere to the requirements for each assessment. Students exceeding these parameters may receive a reduction in marks.

Further information:

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 3: Module Assessment

Information about the consequences of failure (Centrally Provided) Please note that this information may be subject to change due to Covid-19 – please check the Students’ webpages for the most up-to-date information:

• Students’ webpages Students are permitted a maximum of two attempts at any given assessment. If a student fails an assessment at the first attempt they might:

• Be eligible for Condonement

• Need to Resit or Repeat the assessment

• Apply for a Deferral or other support under the Extenuating Circumstances procedures

Condonement Condonement allows a student to progress from one year to the next and/or to be awarded a qualification where they are carrying a small amount of failure, as long as their overall performance is of a good standard and the requirements of any relevant Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Bodies are met. Students who meet the Condonement Criteria will not be reassessed. A student’s eligibility for Condonement in any given module is determined by the programme on which they are enrolled - some modules may be ‘Non-Condonable’ i.e. students must pass them. Condonement applies to module marks falling within a certain range, and students will need to meet defined criteria to be eligible for Condonement. Please note that all first year Mathematics modules are non-condonable for students in the first year of a Mathematics degree. For these modules, it is also necessary to obtain at least 40% on the examination component (as well as overall) in order to pass the module. If a mark of less than 40% is obtained on the exam with an overall mark of 40% or greater, an FQ may be returned, which indicates that the module has been failed. Further information:

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 9: Progression and Award: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-9-progression-award

Student Guides to Condonement:

• Undergraduate Student Guide to Condonement: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/exams-and-assessments/exams/late-summer-assessments/guide-undergraduate-condonement

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-3-attendance-and-absencehttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-3-attendance-and-absencehttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-6-extenuating-circumstanceshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-3-module-assessmenthttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-3-module-assessmenthttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-9-progression-awardhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-9-progression-awardhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/exams-and-assessments/exams/late-summer-assessments/guide-undergraduate-condonementhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/exams-and-assessments/exams/late-summer-assessments/guide-undergraduate-condonement

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Reassessment Depending on the amount of failure, Reassessment may take the form of either a Resit, which usually takes place in the Late Summer, or a Repeat in the following academic session. The marks for modules successfully completed at the second attempt will be capped at the Pass Mark – 40.00% for modules at UG Level/Levels 4, 5 and 6; 50.00% for PGT modules at Masters Level/Level 7. Further information:

• Academic Manual: Consequences of Failure: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-11-consequences-failure

Deferred Assessment If an assessment has been affected by Extenuating Circumstances (ECs) students may be offered a Deferral i.e. a ‘new first attempt’ or a ‘new second attempt’. If the student successfully completes a Deferral of their first attempt, their module marks will not be capped. If the student successfully completes a Deferral of their second attempt (i.e. they have ECs on a Resit or Repeat), their module marks will be capped at the Pass Mark (i.e. the existing cap will not be removed).

• Academic Manual: Extenuating Circumstances: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-6-extenuating-circumstances

Academic Integrity High academic standards are fundamental to ensuring continued trust and confidence in UCL’s world-leading research and teaching, as well as the individuals who work and study at UCL. UCL takes Academic Integrity very seriously, and expects students to familiarise themselves with UCL’s referencing and citation requirements. A good starting point is the UCL Library Guide to References, Citations and Avoiding Plagiarism. Students should also ensure that they are familiar with the specific referencing requirements of their discipline, as these may vary. Candidates for written examinations should also familiarise themselves with the requirements set out in the UCL Examination Guide for Candidates, which is published annually on the Examinations and Awards website. It is also very important that students are aware of what items they are permitted to bring into the Examination Halls, so they can ensure they do not unintentionally breach the examination rules. UCL has a zero tolerance approach to the use of essay mills and contract cheating, as they go against every principle that UCL stands for. These types of service disadvantage honest students and devalue standards in our universities. The vast majority of students at UCL will maintain their Academic Integrity throughout their studies, but it is important to be aware that UCL may consider breaches to your Academic Integrity as an instance of Academic Misconduct. When Academic Misconduct occurs there can potentially be penalties imposed, and it is important to note that repeated breaches will be taken very seriously and could result in exclusion from UCL (see Academic Manual, Chapter 6, Section 9.3, web-link provided below). For students who are unsure of what may be considered as Academic Misconduct, the procedures in Chapter 6 of the Academic Manual define all such behaviour and how this is taken forwards. UCL also has online tools available to help students identify what behaviours may be considered as Academic Misconduct.

Further information:

• Academic Manual Chapter 6, Section 9: Student Academic Misconduct Procedure

• Library Guide to References, Citations and Avoiding Plagiarism

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 4: Examinations

• Examinations and Assessments

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-11-consequences-failurehttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-11-consequences-failurehttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-6-extenuating-circumstanceshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-6-extenuating-circumstanceshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-6-extenuating-circumstanceshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-6-student-casework-frameworkhttp://www.ucl.ac.uk/library/training/guides/webguides/refscitesplaghttp://www.ucl.ac.uk/library/training/guides/webguides/refscitesplaghttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-4-examinationshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-4-examinationshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/exams-and-assessments

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Information about Marking, Second-Marking and Moderation (Central and Local)

Marking, Second-Marking and Moderation All work that is submitted for summative assessment is marked by a UCL Internal Examiner or Assistant Internal Examiner. All UCL programmes also include second-marking and internal moderation processes to ensure that marking is consistent and fair. Second-marking can take a number of different forms depending on the type of assessment, but the overall aim is to ensure that marking is as accurate as possible. Internal moderation also helps UCL to ensure that marking is equitable across different modules, pathways, options and electives.

Information about the External Examiner process and how to access reports via Portico (Centrally Provided)

External Examining at UCL External Examiners are senior academics or practitioners from other universities who help UCL to monitor the quality of the education we provide to our students. In particular, External Examiners scrutinise the assessment processes on each programme, helping UCL to ensure that all students have been treated fairly, that academic standards have been upheld and that the qualifications awarded are comparable with similar degrees at other UK universities. Each External Examiner submits an on-line annual report. Faculties and departments are required to reflect on any recommendations and address any issues raised in a formal response. The report and response are discussed with Student Reps at the Staff-Student Consultative Committee, and are scrutinised by faculty, department and institution-level committees. Students can access their External Examiner’s report and departmental response via the “My Studies” page through their Portico account either through ‘Module Assessment’ or ‘Summary of Results and Awards’ or by contacting their Departmental Administrator in the first instance. On the same “My Studies” Portico page, students can also access UCL wide External Examiners reports for the last three years. For central queries relating to External Examining, please contact Student and Registry Services at examiners@ucl.ac.uk.

Information about UCL’s examination irregularities and plagiarism procedures (Centrally Provided)

Examination Irregularities and Plagiarism UCL students are expected to be aware of and adhere to UCL’s referencing and examination requirements as a condition of their enrolment:

• For examinations, the UCL Examination Guide for Candidates is published annually on the Examinations and Awards website. All candidates for written examinations must ensure they are familiar with the requirements for conduct in examinations set out in this guide.

• For coursework submissions, students must ensure that they are familiar with the UCL Library Guide to References, Citations and Avoiding Plagiarism which provides detailed guidance about UCL’s referencing and citation requirements. Students should also ensure that they are familiar with the specific referencing requirements of their discipline. UCL will use plagiarism detection software to scan coursework for evidence of plagiarism against billions of sources worldwide (websites, journals etc. as well as work previously submitted to UCL and other universities). Most departments will require students to submit work electronically via these systems and ask students to declare that submissions are the work of the student alone.

mailto:examiners@ucl.ac.uk

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Any student suspected of examination misconduct, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, falsification, contract cheating, ghost writing (paying and/or instructing someone to write an assignment for you) or any other form of academic misconduct which is likely to give an unfair advantage to the candidate and/or affect the security of assessment and/ or compromise the academic integrity of UCL will be investigated under the Examination Irregularities and Plagiarism procedures. If misconduct is found, students are likely to be failed for that assignment and/ or module. Serious or repeated offences may lead to failure of the whole year, suspension or even expulsion. A breach of copyright or intellectual property laws may also lead to legal action. Further information:

• Exams: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/exams-and-assessments/exams

• References & Plagiarism: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/library/docs/guides/references-plagiarism

• Academic Manual: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/ Students can also seek advice from the Students’ Union Advice Service

• Advice Service: https://studentsunionucl.org/help-and-advice/advice-service

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/exams-and-assessments/examshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/library/docs/guides/references-plagiarismhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/https://studentsunionucl.org/help-and-advice/advice-service

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13 Extenuating Circumstances and Reasonable Adjustments

Information about Reasonable Adjustments (Centrally Provided)

Students with Disabilities and Long-term Conditions UCL will make Reasonable Adjustments to learning, teaching and assessment to ensure that students with a disability are not put at a disadvantage. UCL also provides Reasonable Adjustments for students who might not consider themselves to have a ‘disability’ but who nevertheless would benefit from additional support due to an ongoing medical or mental health condition. It is the responsibility of the student to request Reasonable Adjustments, and students are encouraged to make a request as early as possible. Students who are given a SoRA (Statement of Reasonable Adjustment) should discuss the implementation of this with the Departmental Tutor (Dr Mark Roberts), or the Senior Teaching and Learning Administrator Ms Sukh Thiara, or the Department Academic SoRA Liaison Contact Dr Luis Garcia Martinez. Further information:

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 5: Reasonable Adjustments

• Disability support

• Mental health and wellbeing support

Pregnancy and Maternity, Paternity, Parental and Adoption Leave UCL can also make Reasonable Adjustments for students who are pregnant or who need to go on Maternity, Paternity, Parental Leave and Adoption Leave. Students do not have to apply for a Summary of Reasonable Adjustments but should instead contact UCL Student Support and Wellbeing to find out about the support available.

Further information:

• Support for Pregnant Students

• Support for Student Parents

Religious Observance Students may need Reasonable Adjustments to help them observe their faith, particularly where classes or assessments might fall on important religious dates. Students do not have to apply for a Summary of Reasonable Adjustments but should instead contact the appropriate Chaplain for advice and support. Further information is also available in UCL’s Religion and Belief Policy.

Further information:

• Religion and Faith

• Religion and Belief Equality Policy for Students

Information about Examination Adjustments (Centrally Provided) Examination Adjustments are adjustments to written examinations for students with a disability, medical or mental health condition, such as extra time, rest breaks or specialist equipment. Students should contact the Disability, Mental Health and Wellbeing team who can help them to complete an application and advise them on gathering the required documentary evidence. Applications need to be received by the Disability, Mental Health and Wellbeing team three weeks before the examination period in question.

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-5-reasonable-adjustmentshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/disability-supporthttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/disability-supporthttp://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/wellbeinghttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/pregnant-studentshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/information-specific-groups/student-parentshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/specialist-information-and-support/religion-and-faithhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/policies/equality/religion

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After this deadline students will need to apply to defer their assessment to the next opportunity (normally the Late Summer Assessment period) if they require mitigation, under the regulations in Section 6: Extenuating Circumstances.

Further information:

• Exam Arrangements

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 4: Examinations

• Disability support

• Mental health and wellbeing support

Information about when, where and how to submit a claim for Extenuating Circumstances (Centrally Provided)

Please note that this information may be subject to change due to Covid-19 – please check the Students’ webpages for the most up-to-date information:

• Students’ webpages

13.3.1 Illness and other Extenuating Circumstances

If a student’s assessments are disrupted by events which are unexpected, significantly disruptive and beyond the student’s control, such as serious illness or bereavement, they can apply for ‘Extenuating Circumstances’. Students are responsible for letting UCL know about any event that might affect their performance in assessments (exams or assignments) at the time that it takes place. Applications need to be submitted within 1 week. Meeting this deadline is important: we can only consider late applications if ongoing circumstances mean that it was genuinely impossible for the student to submit on time. Students should not wait for supporting evidence to become available before submitting their EC claim. If a student is unable to obtain the necessary evidence within the deadlines they should still submit their form on time and indicate that their evidence is to follow.

13.3.2 How to apply for Extenuating Circumstances

Step 1: Read the Extenuating Circumstances procedures

The regulations include important information about eligibility and how to make a claim:

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 6: Extenuating Circumstances

Step 2: Check whether the circumstances are covered:

We may be able to support students better through reasonable adjustments, examination adjustments or an interruption of study.

• Grounds for Extenuating Circumstances

Step 3: Complete an Extenuating Circumstances Form

• EC application form Students should make sure that they tick the box allowing us to share their request with members of staff who are directly responsible for making a decision (don’t worry, we will keep data secure). Students should make sure that they tell us about every assessment that has been affected – we won’t assume it applies to assessments that aren’t on the form.

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/disability-support/exam-arrangementshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-4-examinationshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-4-examinationshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/disability-supporthttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/disability-supporthttp://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/wellbeinghttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-6-extenuating-circumstanceshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-6-extenuating-circumstanceshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/sites/academic-manual/files/ucl_extenuating_circumstances_form.docx

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Step 4: Get supporting evidence

Please note that this information may be subject to change due to Covid-19 – please check the Students’ webpages for the most up-to-date information:

• Students’ webpages This needs to be from a registered doctor or other verifiable source – students should ask their doctor or evidence provider to read the guidance notes on the form carefully – we need to understand how the circumstance has affected the student’s ability to do their assessment. If students need time to get their evidence, they should submit their form on time and submit their evidence as soon as they can.

• Extenuating Circumstances Evidence

Step 5: Submit the form within 1 week of the Extenuating Circumstance taking place

We may not be able to help if a claim is late. Students need to submit their form to their home department or faculty office. The office will forward the form and evidence, confidentially, to the appropriate person.

What happens next

If students apply for a 1 week extension, this will be considered by staff in their department, who will try to give a response as quickly as possible. If students apply for other help, requests will be considered by either the faculty or departmental Extenuating Circumstances Panel. The Panel will usually offer one of the following, although they may suggest something else:

• an extension of more than 1 week

• a ‘deferral’ i.e. postponing the assessment to the next scheduled occasion

• suspending the normal penalties for handing work in late.

13.3.3 Longer-term conditions

The Extenuating Circumstances regulations are designed to cover unexpected emergencies; they are not always the best way to help students who might have a longer-term medical or mental health condition, disability or learning difficulty. Although there may be times when it is necessary for such students to use the EC regulations, students should make sure they take advantage of all the other support mechanisms provided by UCL such as:

Reasonable Adjustments:

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 5: Reasonable Adjustments

Examination Adjustments:

• Academic Manual Chapter 4, Section 4: Examinations

Interruption of Study:

• Academic Manual Chapter 3, Section 5: Interruption of Study

Disability Support:

• Disability support

Mental Health and Wellbeing Support:

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-6-extenuating-circumstances#6.7https://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-5-reasonable-adjustmentshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-5-reasonable-adjustmentshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-4-assessment-framework-taught-programmes/section-4-examinationshttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-5-interruption-studyhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-3-registration-framework-taught-programmes/section-5-interruption-studyhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/disability-support

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• Mental health and wellbeing support

Information on fitness to study (Centrally Provided)

13.4.1 Support to Study Policy and Fitness to Study Procedure

Students with physical or mental health concerns are encouraged to make contact with the available support services as early as possible so that UCL can put in place reasonable adjustments to support them throughout their studies. However, there may be occasions when a student’s physical or mental health, wellbeing or behaviour is having a detrimental effect on their ability to meet the requirements of their programme, or is impacting on the wellbeing, rights, safety and security of other students and staff. In such cases UCL may need to take action under the Fitness to Study Procedure.

Further Information:

• Academic Manual Chapter 6, Section 2: Support to Study Policy

• Academic Manual Chapter 6: Section 3: Fitness to Study Procedure

• Academic Manual Chapter 6, Section 4: Learning Agreements, Barring, Suspensions and Termination of Study

• Disability support

• Mental health and wellbeing support

Key contacts in the department for assistance with any of the above If you have any problems or difficulties, please discuss them with a member of staff. Specific questions about mathematical problems in your courses should in the first instance be taken up with your small-group tutors (first year students) or the appropriate course lecturer (all years). For more general questions (academic, personal, financial, accommodation, etc.) you can talk with the following people: (i) Your personal tutor (ii) The Departmental Tutor, Dr Mark Roberts (iii) The Teaching & Learning Administrators (iv) The Head of Department, Professor Helen Wilson (v) Department Academic SoRA Liaison Contact, Dr Luis Garcia Martinez (vi) Other members of staff you feel comfortable talking to

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/wellbeinghttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-6-student-casework-frameworkhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-6-student-casework-frameworkhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-6-student-casework-frameworkhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/academic-manual/chapters/chapter-6-student-casework-frameworkhttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/disability-supporthttps://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/disability-supporthttp://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/support-and-wellbeing/wellbeing

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14 Learning resources and key facilities

Information on university-wide learning resources and key contacts for support (Centrally Provided)

UCL Library and Learning Resources

14.1.1 UCL Library Services UCL has 16 libraries covering a wide range of specialist subjects with expert staff that students can ask for help. UCL Library Services provides access to a huge range of resources. The UCL Library Services page has information for students about using the library, services available, electronic resources and training and support. Please note that information on library opening times may be subject to change due to Covid-19 – please check the link to the Library below for current information. Further information:

• Library information for students: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/library/students

14.1.2 UCL Information Services Division (ISD) The UCL Information Services Division (ISD), the primary provider of IT services to UCL, offers IT learning opportunities for students and staff in the form of ‘How to’ guides which provide step-by-step guidance to all of ISD’s key services, including email and calendar services, user IDs and passwords, print, copy and scanning, wifi and networks. There are also opportunities for Digital Skills Development through face-to-face training in areas such as data analysis, programming, desktop applications and more, along with individual support through drop-ins and via the ISD Service Desk. Please note that information on ISD services may be subject to change due to Covid-19 – please check the webpages below for current information.

• Digital Skills Development UCL also has a licence for Lynda.com (now migrated to LinkedIn Learning) which provides thousands of high quality video-based courses from programming to presentation skills:

• LinkedIn Learning Learning on Screen (“bob”) provides students with access to a vast archive of 65 free-to-air channel programming for educational usage – you can view TV programmes and films, and listen to radio programmes. In addition,