UNIVERSITY OF SUFFOLK

[Insert Department/Partner College]

[INSERT AWARD TITLE(S)]

COURSE HANDBOOK

20XX-XX

In this template, text in red indicates where you will need to make a decision on the appropriate content for the final version of your handbook, either deleting the red text, making the appropriate text black, or adapting provided text to accurately depict your plans for provision.

Upon request to your Course Administrator this handbook can be provided in an alternative format.

This handbook was compiled on [insert date] and the information presented is correct as of that date

CONTENTS

Welcome statement from the Course Team.............................................................................1

Purpose of this handbook.........................................................................................................2

Course Team............................................................................................................................3

Roles of Course Team members.........................................................................................4

Your course...............................................................................................................................5

Course rationale and philosophy..........................................................................................5Course aims.........................................................................................................................5Course learning outcomes...................................................................................................5Course structure...................................................................................................................5

Your study.................................................................................................................................7

Learning and teaching methods...........................................................................................7A typical week......................................................................................................................7Work experience/Placement................................................................................................7Academic year......................................................................................................................8Virtual Learning Environment (Learn)..................................................................................8

Assessment..............................................................................................................................9

Assessment on this course..................................................................................................9Referencing..........................................................................................................................9Assessment summary..........................................................................................................9Assessment schedule........................................................................................................11Assessment and marking criteria.......................................................................................11Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)..................................................................................11Assessment regulations.....................................................................................................11Personal Development Planning (PDP).............................................................................12Planning your future...........................................................................................................12Health Education East of England (HEEOE) Student Survey............................................12

Where you will learn................................................................................................................14

Course specific Health and Safety Guidelines........................................................................14

Full module specifications.......................................................................................................15

Welcome statement from the Course Team

We are pleased to welcome you to the [insert Course Title] programme at the University of Suffolk / University of Suffolk at [Partner] College.

The [insert Course Title] programme is offered within the [insert Department] in the [insert Faculty/Partner College name]. [You may like to insert more details about the activities and aims of your Department/Faculty/College here].

[Insert welcome from Course Team - see handbook guidance for examples of good practice]

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Purpose of this handbook

This handbook provides you with a detailed introduction to your course and to your experience as a student completing it. You will find details of what you will study and how you will be assessed, the support that will be available to you, and information on other opportunities available to you whilst you are studying. An updated version of this handbook is produced each year – you will be able to access the latest version electronically on the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (Learn).

This handbook should be read in conjunction with the online University of Suffolk Student Handbook, which provides more general information and guidance about:

the University of Suffolk (including facilities and resources and key points of contact) making the most of the learning opportunities available to you managing your study the support services available to you arrangements for listening and responding to your feedback ways in which you can get involved in improving the student experience at the

University University regulations, policies and procedures.

[Where relevant, you should also refer to any placement / work-based learning handbook, which should be provided prior to students undertaking any work placements]

Each University of Suffolk course has a definitive record that summarises its essential features. This provides a reference point for students, employers, applicants and others taking an interest in the course. You can find the Definitive Course Record on Learn (the University’s virtual learning environment). The definitive record provides a concise summary of your course, with more detail provided in this handbook.

If you cannot find the information you need in this handbook, further information can be found on MySuffolk and in the online Student Handbook, where the most up-to-date versions of general information is made available electronically (including all University policies and procedures). Alternatively, please ask a member of your course team who will be happy to help you.

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Your Course Team

We hope that it will not take you long to settle in at the University and get to know relevant staff. The course team are here to assist you directly in the achievement of your academic, professional and personal goals, and help you on your path to your chosen career.

Below is a list of people who you are likely to meet during the course of your studies, along with their contact details:

Job Title / Name Room number(optional)

Telephone number andUniversity of Suffolk email address

Pro-Vice-Chancellor, [Insert Faculty Name]*[Insert Name]

Head of Department, [Insert Department Name]*[Insert Name]

Course Leader[Insert Name]

Course Team members[Insert Name]

Course Administrator[Insert Name]

[Any other relevant staff e.g. Technicians(Insert Name)]

External Examiner [Provide details of the identity and current professional role (institution and job title) of the course’s external examiner OR include the following statement:

At the time of writing, a new External Examiner is being appointed for this

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course. Once appointed, the details of the new External Examiner will be published on Learn

[* or partner college equivalents (please delete)]

Roles of Course Team members

Some members of your course team take on particular roles and responsibilities within the course’s operation. Descriptions of how your course leader, personal tutor, module leaders, and other lecturers and tutors support you in your studies and learning are explained in the University of Suffolk Student Handbook, as is the role of the External Examiner.

[For courses where there are other significant roles – for example practice supervisors, mentors, work placement coordinators or dissertation supervisors – include additional sections here]

4

Your course

In the following sections we describe your programme of study in a number of ways. In the next two sections we explore what the course is about and what we are trying to achieve through the course. Then we go into more detail describing what you will be expected to get out of the course, and specifying how the course is structured into levels and modules [explaining how you are able to plan your study programme and the choices you will need to make in doing so]. Details of your course, along with a copy of this handbook and other course information, can be located in your course area of Learn.

The University of Suffolk reserves the right to cancel delivery of elements of, or all of, this course should conditions make it impractical for such provision to be continued. In such situations, while the University will endeavour to enable current students to complete their studies, possibly in partnership with another provider, this cannot be guaranteed.

Course rationale and philosophy

[Insert course rationale and philosophy]

Course aims

[Insert course aims]

Course learning outcomes

In this section we list what we expect you to gain from studying this course. Our expectations are presented in terms of learning outcomes, statements defining specific abilities and skills which you will need to demonstrate to complete the course.

[Insert learning outcomes for course at each level – where named exit awards are included in the provision, the learning outcomes associated with each should be clearly indicated (usually these are shared with the relevant level learning outcomes)]

Course structure

[Present the modules at each level indicating point of delivery (i.e. semester 1, all year …) and which are mandatory, requisite and optional (to define what these terms mean in the context of your course structure, adopting or adapting the following text may be helpful:)]

This course includes three types of module:

Mandatory modules : these are modules that you must take and pass in order to meet the requirements for your award.

Requisite modules : These are modules you must take as part of your studies but it is not compulsory for you to pass – there may be an alternative module at the same or a higher level you could take to make up the deficit in credit should you fail the module.

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Optional modules : These are modules you can select to complete as part of your studies. You will be required to complete a specific number of optional modules from a prescribed list as set out in the course structure.

[The following template may be used to present course structure:

Module title Credits Module typeDelivery

point

Level 4 modules

Level 5 modules

Level 6 modules

Follow this with an explanation of the course structure, explaining how students develop their knowledge, understanding and skills as they proceed through the levels. If students will be able to choose from optional modules, provide helpful discussion to guide them on how to decide between options, possibly illustrated by case studies that show possible pathways through the course. Indication should be made of study requirements for any named exit awards which are included in the programme. It would normally be expected that any mandatory modules within the course would also be mandatory modules for any exit awards (e.g. any mandatory modules at Levels 4 or 5 would need to be passed in order to be awarded a named CertHE or DipHE).]

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Your study

Your experience as a student here at the University of Suffolk is designed to enable you to explore your course subject, develop your own knowledge and skills, and prepare for your future. While the scheduled sessions provided for you on this course are an essential part of your learning, so is the time you spend in independent study and in completing assessment activities. You need to plan to do about 200 hours (including classes) for each 20 credit module. Your course team, in conjunction with the Learning Services team, will do their best to support you in your learning, to enable you to use all your time effectively in reaching your goals and achieving successfully in your studies.

Learning and teaching methods

It is our aim to provide students with a range of learning environments and styles of teaching and learning which will suit the varied subject matter within the different modules, and support the needs of students at all levels of the programme. Teaching and learning [will take place in the context of lectures, seminars, workshop activities, off-campus trips and work placements,] each supported by a comprehensive programme of tutorial support.

In general, the strategies employed will encourage you to become a self-motivated, independent learner capable of directing your own study, whilst maintaining the academic rigour and quality expected of undergraduate study.

[Insert a description of the methods and session types that will form the students’ scheduled learning experience while at the University. You should explain what the course team see is the purpose of each element, how students might prepare for a session, and what students should expect to receive and contribute to each session. You should also explore other aspects of the students expected learning activity (such as independent study, workshops, set reading, work placements, …), explaining how each should contribute to their learning and providing guidance to students on how they can best use the opportunities for their benefit. For courses that span more than one level of study, provide indication on how students study and learning activity is expected to develop as they progress through the course (possibly towards more independent learners, competent or mature practitioners, or similar subject related aspirations or objectives)]

A typical week

[Insert an indication of what a student would expect to experience in a normal week of study – when and where will scheduled study take place, what additional independent study should be expected, what specific support will be available to support students in their studies (tutorials, online materials, …)]

Work experience / placement [where applicable]

Include a brief explanation of the place of work placement / experience / work-based learning on the course and how placements are arranged - cross-reference to separate work experience/placement handbook or specific sections later in this handbook]

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Academic year

[This should include information about how the academic year is organised, e.g. year long, two semesters, three terms, etc. and when students start and finish. Provision of specific dates is good practice, clearly communicating the scheduling of exam periods, assessment boards, reading weeks, and other key elements of the student experience.]

Virtual Learning Environment (Learn)

The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) at the University of Suffolk is known as Learn. Learn is the main place to go for learning materials and module information.[Insert a description of how Learn is used to support module delivery and assessment on this course, e.g.:

Here are some examples of what Learn is used for: an access point for course and module materials a notice board through the ‘announcements’ system an environment for collaborative working with peers though blogs, wikis and

discussion boards a way for students to submit work for marking an access point to view your unratified results a place to find information about help and support extra-curricular information.]

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Assessment

In this section you will find discussion of how you will be assessed through your course and frameworks and regulations that control the assessment processes. The Assessment Matters area of the My Course area of MySuffolk should be your first point of call for more detailed explanations and guides to the processes and regulations associated with assessment. This area is also the place where Exam Timetables are published.

Assessment on this course

Assessment is an integral part of academic life. The assessments you will encounter on your course will be varied, to enable you to experience and adapt to different assessment styles.

[Provide a description of the types of assessment tasks that students will encounter in their studies, explaining what is expected and any specific requirements for work on this course. Define the difference between summative and formative assessment as it is employed in the course. Explain the role and form of formative assessment and how it articulates with summative assessment, and how it support students in their learning and skill development. Mention of the University of Suffolk Assignment Toolkit (ATK) (hosted on the Library area) might usefully be included. Within this section, explore whether students are able to submit draft work for review and the processes and limitations that are associated with this. Also, where relevant, explore the principles guiding group assessment that are employed on the course (with reference to the University of Suffolk policy for the Assessment of Group Work). You may direct students to helpful documentation they can refer to in order to guide them.]

Referencing

[Provide guidance on the referencing standard employed on the course. You may find it helpful to refer to the Library documentation provided for students on citation and referencing formats]

Assessment summary

[Provide a table that summarises the components of assessment for each module within the course, enabling students to see what will be expected of them throughout their programme of study.]

[If available, indicate assessment schedule in final column:]

Module title Component number

Assessment type Word count / duration

Core / non-core

[Date / week] due

Level 4 modules

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Module title Component number

Assessment type Word count / duration

Core / non-core

[Date / week] due

Level 5 modules

Level 6 modules

10

Assessment schedule

[Either:]Your course has an assessment schedule which is agreed by the course team to ensure that, where possible, your assessment load is distributed through the year. The amalgamated assessment schedule for all your modules, recording planned submission deadlines and dates for the return of feedback on each assessment, will be distributed near to the beginning of the academic year and will be made available to you in the course area on Learn [and on the course notice board].

[Or:] You will need to examine closely the schedule for the modules that you are studying and build the hand-in dates into your personal study schedule.

Assessment and marking criteria

The nature of the assessment for each module will reflect the level of that module and its academic and practical content. You will be provided with criteria against which your assessed work will be judged in order to award a mark.

[Where a single set of marking criteria are employed for all assignments [at each level] these criteria may be included in the handbook here or as an appendix. All undergraduate courses are expected to either use the University of Suffolk Generic Marking Criteria or use criteria derived from them – a Word version of the generic criteria are available in the Registry area of the intranet]

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Some students will be able to use previous study at a similar level, or experience gained through work or other settings, against modules on this course. [Insert a discussion of common applicable RPL opportunities available to students on this course]

A detailed student guide to RPL processes is available on MySuffolk – you are advised to look at this if you suspect that you could make use of RPL as credit against modules on this course. Following consultation of this guide, if you wish to explore this further you should contact the Course Leader.

Assessment regulations

The Framework and Regulations for Undergraduate / Integrated Master’s / Taught Postgraduate [delete as applicable] Awards and other policies relating to assessment can be found on MySuffolk. You should ensure you read and understand these regulations. The Course Team strictly adheres to these regulations and you should become familiar with the terms used. Please ask for clarification if you are unsure of any policy or regulation. A more detailed exploration of the assessment processes is provided in the University of Suffolk Student Handbook and you are strongly advised to familiarise yourself with these early on in your studies.

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[If you have course specific assessment regulation variation(s), for example to meet professional body requirements, provide an explanation of these and their implication for students here]

[Professional Misconduct / Ethics / Confidentiality / Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS)

Where appropriate, include a discussion on professional misconduct and any implications in terms of students’ involvement in placements. Where pertinent, also explore DBS checks, ethical issues and confidentiality.]

Personal Development Planning (PDP)

[Provide an introduction to the PDP programme in use on the course and how it is integrated into your course provision.]

Planning your future

[Provide a discussion of the possible post-course opportunities available to successful students, including career opportunities and possible further study opportunities. Indicate careers staff and facilities available to students on the course.]

Health Education East of England (HEEOE) Student Survey [To be included for HEEOE commissioned courses only: Adult Nursing; Child Nursing; Mental Health Nursing; (all including Flexible or Work-Based Learning); Midwifery (shortened and 3 year); Health Visiting; Operating Department Practice; Paramedic Science; Diagnostic Radiography, Radiotherapy and Oncology]

Health Education East of England (HEEOE) is the Local Education and Training Board that covers Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Norfolk and Suffolk and Essex. HEEOE’s aim is to improve the quality of education, training and development in the East of England. HEEOE commissions pre-registration nursing, midwifery and allied health profession programmes in the East of England at our six regional HEIs and some learners in other LETBs. HEEOE also commission postgraduate Medical Training. For programmes such as Paramedic Science and Oral Health care, HEEOE fund the student’s placements. In total HEEOE invest almost £400 million each year in training of the current and future workforce. HEEOE is committed to ensuring that every learner has an excellent experience of academic learning and practical placements, and are recruited and taught by the NHS values; and that these experiences continue to improve. HEEOE continually monitors the quality and performance of programmes to ensure that this happens, including the view from the universities, the organisations taking students for placements, and from students who are undertaking programmes. We are committed to commissioning excellent education with quality outcomes directly influencing future commissioning. Full information in relation to the quality management of universities can be found here: https://heeoe.hee.nhs.uk/.

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Every year, HEEOE run a student survey. In [previous year], [number] students ([percentage]) of all commissioned students completed this survey and this year we want to hear from more students! [Insert latest figures] By completing your questionnaire you are fulfilling your responsibility to provide feedback on funded programmes and more importantly you are helping us to ensure that your programme and future programmes are the highest quality and all your learning reflects the values of the NHS. You are also given an opportunity to raise good practice and raise any concerns you may have. Learner feedback is central to our quality processes and we always value your input. Once you have completed your programme of study at your University, you may be contacted to confirm the details of your first post. HEEOE provides significant funding for students trained locally and as part of ensuring value for money it is vital we know where you are working and what role you are undertaking. Please take the opportunity to let us know your employment details.

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Where you will learn

[Provide a brief outline of where students’ scheduled sessions are likely to be held. Provide details of any specialist facilities students will need to access, and indicate any access restrictions or requirements associated with these. If field trips are likely to be included in the course delivery, provide brief details such as costs and timings.]

For further information on the facilities and learning and student support services available to you, please explore the University of Suffolk Student Handbook.

Course specific health and safety guidelines [include where relevant]

[Insert guidelines]

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Full module specifications

[Insert module specifications at each level. The module specification template and a guide to completing the template is available on the Course Approval, Modification and Review pages on the University website. You should ensure that the indicative reading lists have been reviewed and updated in the last 12 months.]

Level 3 modules

[Insert modules with details as above]

Level 4 modules

[Insert modules with details as above]

Level 5 modules

[Insert modules with details as above]

Level 6 modules

[Insert modules with details as above]

Level 7 modules

[Insert modules with details as above]

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