SCHOOL OF ORIENTAL AND AFRICAN STUDIES POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH REGULATIONS 2010-2011

POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH REGULATIONS 2010-2011

Contents
REGULATIONS&PROCEDURES Code of Practice for Research Degrees Procedures in Respect of Research Degree Registration Regulations for Students of SOAS Tuition Fees 2010/2011 4 21 26 34

REGULATIONS & PROCEDURES

School of Oriental and African Studies

Code of Practice for Research Degrees

June 2010

Contents
Introduction MPhil and PhD Degree Definitions Admission and Selection Procedures Arrival Procedures Modes of Study Full-time/Part-time Study Status Extension of Writing-up (Continuation)/Interruption/ Maintenance Status Programme Requirements Annual Progression Transfer from MPhil to PhD Training and Research The PhD Training and Research The MPhil Overseas Fieldwork Writing-up Entry to Examination Responsibilities Joint Responsibilities of Supervisor and Student Supervisory Committee Responsibilities Supervisor Second Member Third Member Research Student Responsibilities Departmental Responsibilities Research Tutor Head of Department Faculty Responsibilities Faculty Research Committee Associate Dean (Research) School Responsibilities Research Students Management Group Registry Student Services Pro-Director Complaints and Appeals Complaints about Training or Supervision Appeal Procedures Further Reading 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 9 10 10 11 11 12 13 14 14 15 16 16 16 17 17 17 17 18 18 18 19

CODE OF PRACTICE FOR RESEARCH DEGREES

Introduction
1. The purpose of this Code is to provide guidelines both for academic staff involved in research supervision and for research students working for MPhil and PhD degrees at SOAS. It is intended to ensure that research students are fully and effectively supervised and that every effort is made for research degrees to be completed within the prescribed period of study of three years full-time 1 enrolment (six years part-time). 2. The aim of this Code is further to establish a set of standard procedures for all departments in the School based upon common structures and a definition of specific responsibilities on the part of all those principally concerned. Supervision of research students is, however, influenced by many factors including the nature of the individuals involved, the type of research undertaken, and the character and requirements of the discipline pursued. Some variation between departments is, therefore, inevitable. Departmental practice may supplement this Code, but must not deviate substantially from its aims and provisions.

MPhil and PhD Degree Definitions

3. Students registered for research degrees at SOAS are formally registered for degrees of the University of London and subject to the Regulations of the University (http://www.london.ac.uk/research_degrees.html). 4. The University of London regulations for a PhD thesis state that the scope of the thesis shall be what might reasonably be expected after three years or at most four years of full-time study. 5. The thesis shall: a) consist of the candidates own account of his/her investigations and must indicate how they appear to him/her to advance the study of the subject; b) form a distinct contribution to the knowledge of the subject and afford evidence of originality by the discovery of new facts and/or by the exercise of independent critical power; c) be an integrated whole and present a coherent argument; d) give a critical assessment of the relevant literature, describe the method of research and its findings, and include a discussion of those findings, and indicate in what respects they appear to the candidate to advance the study of the subject; e) be written in English and the literary presentation shall be satisfactory; and f) include a full bibliography and references. 6. It is the responsibility of students to be aware of the regulations and procedures applicable to their degree registration. These regulations are available in the SOAS Postgraduate Research Handbook and online on the Postgraduate Research Section website (http://www.soas.ac.uk/registry/pgresearch/pgrstudents/) _______________________
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Subject to satisfactory progress and completion of a draft thesis students may enrol for a maximum of three further terms on Extension of Writing-up (Continuation) status. The deadline for submission of the thesis is 48 months from initial registration (84 Months part-time). For students who started in or after September 2007, entry to examination will not be permitted to enter the examination after this deadline.

7. Except during periods of approved overseas fieldwork research students are expected to be undertaking research for their degree being based at SOAS, London. 8. The School uses the term MPhil in two different ways. The MPhil can be a research degree in its own right, involving a shorter period of study, different kinds of research and a shorter thesis than the PhD. All new research students initially enrol on the MPhil/PhD programme (unless undertaking to do an MPhil only) until they have satisfied their supervisory committees of their suitability for transferring to PhD status. If a student is not considered to have produced work suitable for transfer to PhD they may be advised to continue enrolment on the MPhil degree.

Admission and Selection Procedures

9. At least two members of academic staff should normally be involved in the selection of MPhil/PhD students. It is the responsibility of the departmental Research Tutor and the Associate Dean (Research) in the relevant faculty to ensure that applications are processed expeditiously and a potential supervisor identified. The Registry should be fully informed of any additional requirements (e.g. with respect to language training). Where appropriate an applicants file may be passed to another department for consideration. While informal discussion between potential supervisor and student is welcomed, decisions on admissions should only be communicated to prospective students through Registry.

Arrival Procedures
10. As stated in the Postgraduate Prospectus, the offer of a place at SOAS for a research degree is normally dependent on submission and approval of a suitable research topic (usually in the form of a statement of 1,000-2,000 words, outlining the research method and sources likely to be used). If the research topic has not already been determined, this should be agreed upon by the student and his/her supervisor as soon as possible, and not later than six weeks after registration. 11. All students are required to meet the Schools standards for proficiency in English. If on arrival, or subsequently, it becomes evident that the students knowledge and use of English is inadequate for the purpose of a research degree, he or she may be required to undertake English language tuition and a timetable for this should be agreed between the supervisor and student. 12. During the first six weeks following registration all research students should be assigned a supervisory committee (normally consisting of the supervisor, the departments research tutor and one other member of staff from the same or a second department). The student, the members of the Supervisory Committee, and the Registry should all be informed in writing of the composition of the committee by the departmental research tutor. 13. A research student should normally have one main supervisor, normally located in the department with which he/she is registered. However, where a students research project crosses more than one field of study, a supervisor can be appointed from another department. In exceptional cases joint supervision may be appropriate. This can include supervisors from two different departments (subject to approval by the relevant Associate Dean(s) (Research), but it is essential that all concerned are clear as to who will be the lead supervisor and thus required to take primary responsibility for the student.

14. All research students (including those studying part-time) are normally required to attend a research training programme and to fulfil the stated requirements of the course. Any further training or skills required should be discussed at an early stage by the student and supervisor and, where necessary, the approval of the Associate Dean (Research) should be sought.

Modes of Study
Full-time/Part-time Study
15. Students at SOAS are normally registered on a full-time basis for research degrees but may also enrol on a part-time basis subject to approval of the supervisor and relevant department. Students enrolled on a full-time basis are required to complete active research and a draft thesis within three years of initial enrolment. Students enrolled on a part-time basis are expected to be in attendance for half the equivalent full-time enrolment and complete their active research and a draft thesis within six years of initial enrolment. 16. Students wishing to enrol on a part-time basis must sign a declaration that they are not intending to study on a full-time basis (See Item 1 of the Procedures in Respect of Research Degree (MPhil, PhD) Registration for conditions of part-time enrolment). 17. Subject to satisfactory progress and production of a draft thesis by the relevant deadline, all students (whether full-time or part-time) may enrol for a maximum of three terms on Extention of Writing-up (continuation) status during which time they retain the right to submit the thesis for examination (See Item 6 of the Procedures in Respect of Research Degree (MPhil, PhD) Registration).

Extension of Writing-up (Continuation) Status, Interruption of Study and Maintenance of Registration

18.Students and supervisors are expected to familiarise themselves with the regulations relating to these forms of registration status before seeking or approving continuation, interruption and maintenance status and to comply with the relevant School regulations and procedures concerning them. 19. Research programmes are intended to be continuous. In some cases students may not be able to continue with their normal registration and an interruption of study may be sought. All interruptions will be subject to the approval of the relevant Associate Dean (Research) and will only be granted for exceptional circumstances such as pregnancy, serious illness or exceptional personal circumstances. The maximum period of interruption normally allowed in any research programme is three terms. 20. Extension of Writing-up (Continuation), Interruption of Study and Maintenance of Registration may affect issues such as council tax exemption, travel discounts and visas. Students and supervisors should seek advice from the Registry where necessary. 21. Interruption of study cannot normally be applied for retrospectively.

Programme Requirements
Annual Progression
22. Students enrolled on a research degree at SOAS are assessed by annual report and will not be permitted to re-enrol for the following academic session without confirmation of satisfactory progression.

Transfer from MPhil to PhD

23. Although some research students are enrolled for an MPhil degree only, most are initially registered for an MPhil and, subject to satisfactory progress, subsequently transferred to PhD status. 24. For full-time students, consideration for transfer will take place in May/June of the first year. Any extensions to this timetable are subject to the approval of the Associate Dean (Research) and all full-time students must be transferred to PhD before the start of year two. Part-time students are considered for transfer to PhD in May/June of their second year of part-time enrolment. Students may not leave for overseas fieldwork unless transferred to PhD. 25. The process of transfer from MPhil to PhD should involve consideration by the supervisory committee of the students progress in meeting the requirements of the MPhil training programme, in preparing written work (including draft chapters), and in making oral presentations (including seminars) to a suitable standard. Where possible, the process should include a meeting between the student and his/her supervisory committee, at which the student may be asked to give an oral presentation. 26. A transfer should not be approved unless the student has fully satisfied the supervisory committee as to the students competence in written and spoken English as well as to the research content of the thesis. 27. Transfer of registration must be approved by the Supervisory Committee on the appropriate Registry form. Where the Supervisory Committee decides against transfer, this should be recorded on the Registry form, which should also record whether this decision is final or subject to a further review of the students progress. Where there is disagreement over transfer among members of the Supervisory Committee, or the student wishes to appeal against not being transferred, the matter should be referred by the departmental research tutor or Head of Department to the Associate Dean (Research). 28. The outcome of the process should clearly indicate one of the following: a) that the student will be transferred to PhD status; b) that the students transfer has been deferred to a specific date and subject to certain stated requirements; c) that the transfer is not approved, but the student can continue for an MPhil degree only; or d) that the programme of study be terminated.

Training and Research The PhD

29. The PhD involves three years of full-time supervised study (six years part-time) followed by submission of the thesis for examination no later than four years from initial enrolment (seven years part-time). PhD work in Britain differs from the typical American PhD because it places greater emphasis on individual research and less on taught courses. It is expected that candidates will have already completed postgraduate taught courses in the form of a UK taught Masters degree (MA, MSc, MMus or LLM for example), or an equivalent recognised by the School, and obtained good results before starting a PhD Programme.

30. Nonetheless the PhD does include elements of teaching and of research training, especially in the first year of study (two years part-time). Training requirements vary between departments and full details of departmental training requirements will be available from your Faculty or Department.

Training and Research The MPhil

31. Unlike the PhD, the MPhil degree is essentially a two year full-time research degree. Research students intending to submit for an MPhil degree are expected to attend the relevant training programme, research seminars and any courses deemed necessary for their research. However, it is likely that MPhil students will spend less time (if any) in overseas fieldwork and that the bulk of research will be done in the UK. Although there is no equivalent to the transfer procedure for PhD students, MPhil students should have satisfied their supervisor and supervisory committee by the end of the first year that their work is suitable for an MPhil degree. Students then enrol for a second year of active research and are expected to complete a draft thesis by the end of year two. Subject to satisfactory progress and completion of a draft thesis students may then enrol for a maximum of three terms on Extension of Writing-up (Continuation) status during which time they retain the right to submit their thesis for examination.

Overseas Fieldwork
32. Fieldwork outside the UK is often an important part of research work at SOAS. A maximum of three terms overseas fieldwork is normally permitted in a full-time PhD Programme. Any longer periods require the special permission of the relevant Associate Dean with responsibility for research students who will only approve cases where clear academic grounds have been presented by (or through) the supervisor. No student will be permitted to proceed to overseas fieldwork until transferred to PhD status and their fieldwork has been approved by the Registry. [See Procedures in Respect of Research Degree (MPhil/PhD) Registration] 33. In many cases, especially with PhD students, the research proposal will plan a period of extended fieldwork outside the UK during the second year of full-time registration. Before overseas fieldwork is approved the student and supervisor should discuss in some detail and well in advance the purpose of this fieldwork, the nature, location and duration of the research, the need for additional research funds (and any applications that need to made as a result), what visas, letters of recommendation and other documents need to be obtained before the fieldwork begins, what health measures may be necessary, and how (and how often) contact between student and supervisor is to be maintained. A risk assessment of the proposed fieldwork must be made. It is the student's responsibility to assess the risk and discuss it, as necessary, with the supervisor and others. The School advises all students to consult Foreign Office guidance and NOT to travel to countries or areas contrary to FO advice. Confirmation that a risk assessment has been undertaken must be given on the Fieldwork Application Form. It is extremely important for students to submit a Fieldwork Application Form and lodge this with the Registry for checking well before their departure. Similarly, on returning, it is important for students to contact the Registry as well as their supervisor. Non-standard fieldwork applications will need the approval of the Associate Dean (Research). On return, many supervisors expect a written report on the progress made during the fieldwork period. 34. At least monthly contact, by letter or e-mail, is expected (even when there seems too little or too much to report). If you are not completing a log book electronically, the log book is lodged with the supervisor while a student is on fieldwork and must continue to be completed. In some cases, where funds and timing permit, it may be better to have two shorter periods of fieldwork rather than one long one, which may exhaust the research student and weaken contact between student and supervisor. However requirements will vary from one student to another and from one topic or discipline to another. It is important for students to contact both the supervisor and the Registry if fieldwork plans change.

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Writing-up
35.The third year of the PhD (or part-time equivalent) is normally devoted to drafting and re-drafting the chapters. A complete draft of the thesis is required by the end of year three. 36. Subject to satisfactory progress and completion of a draft thesis by the end of year three (or parttime equivalent) students may enrol for a maximum of three terms on Extension of Writing-up (Continuation) status. 37. For MPhil candidates a completed draft thesis is required by the end of year two (or part-time equivalent). 38. Under Extension of Writing-up (Continuation) status students will continue to have access to School facilities, including use of the SOAS Library, but are entitled to receive only a reduced level of supervision. 39. Extension of Writing-up enrolment is at a significantly reduced fee from full-time or part-time enrolment and is available on the understanding that: a) b) the student is at an advanced stage of writing up and requires only reduced supervision; the student will complete writing up and submit the thesis for examination within three terms or by their thesis submission deadline (whichever is sooner).

Entry to Examination
40. When the MPhil or PhD thesis is nearing completion, both student and supervisor must begin to plan for the final stages the submission and examination of the thesis. It is the responsibility of the supervisor to recommend examiners one from within the University of London and one from outside the University (but normally within the UK). The supervisor is not one of the examiners, but can be present at the viva (oral examination) if the candidate so wishes. University of London Regulations clearly state that only the student, the appointed examiners and the supervisor are permitted to attend the examination. 41. The student will need to fill in the appropriate examination entry forms for submitting the thesis. These forms should be completed and returned to Registry TWO MONTHS before the intended date of submission to avoid delays in appointment of examiners and arrangement of the examination. 42. It is also the responsibility of the student to see that the thesis is prepared in the approved format and with the required number of copies. It is especially important to follow the maximum length for MPhil (60,000 words) and PhD (100,000 words) theses. The School does not support requests to submit theses which exceed the word length. 43. For both MPhil and PhD degrees candidates are required both to submit a thesis of the required standard (see below) and to defend their work to the satisfaction of the examiners in a viva (oral examination). 44. The examiners of a PhD thesis have a number of options open to them: they can deem the candidate as having fully met the requirements of a PhD (or ask for only minor amendments to be made); they can require more substantial changes to be made and the revised thesis represented within 18 months (usually this is done without a second viva); they can decide that the candidate has failed to meet the standard required for a PhD but may be offered an MPhil degree instead; or they may fail the candidate entirely. Examiners for an MPhil thesis also have the options of approving the degree (or calling for minor changes), requiring a revision and re-submission, or failing the candidate.

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Responsibilities
Joint Responsibilities of Supervisor and Student
45. It is a fundamental requirement that there should be regular meetings between the research student and his/her supervisor. These should normally be of at least one hours duration. Intervals between meetings may vary according to the stage the students work has reached. As a general rule, full-time students and their supervisors should meet fortnightly during the first year and monthly during subsequent years of the full-time enrolment (or part-time equivalent). It is to be expected that Supervisor and student availability may require adjustments to this schedule outside the Schools taught course term dates. When this is the case arrangements must be agreed for these periods (whether by adjustment to the meeting schedule or by correspondence and/or telephone) to reflect that research degrees involve year round enrolment, study and academic support. 46. As far as possible, supervisor and student should agree an agenda for future meetings. They should keep a record of when meetings are held, the nature of (and deadlines for) any work to be completed or submitted, and the date and time of the next meeting. They are also advised to keep note of the main issues and problems discussed. Normally this should be done via the logbook. 47. Each research student has a log book which must be maintained by the supervisor and the student with a record of supervisory meetings, research progress and issues arising. An agreed record of the number and nature of supervision meetings will be particularly valuable for the completion by supervisor and student of the annual report forms and in any appeals procedure. The log book should be completed for each meeting. 48. During the first year of full-time registration, the supervisor and student should work together to draw up a research plan and a timetable for the research, including any periods of fieldwork. The plan should clearly mark out the stage by which a student is expected to have completed a given point in the research, must take into account the restraints of time and resources and should allow for completion of active research and submission of draft thesis within 36 months of initial registration (72 months part-time) and submission of the thesis for examination within 48 months (84 months part-time). 49. A supervisor should respond to any written work, either orally or in writing, within one month of it being submitted. If because of the length or complexity of the written work, or because of ill health, or pressing demands on his/her time, the supervisor is unable to respond within one month, he/she should inform the student of this at the time the work is submitted, or as soon as possible thereafter, and clearly indicate when a response will be given. 50. If a supervisor expects to be absent from SOAS for a period of more than one month during term time, he/she should inform the student and departmental research tutor accordingly. Where necessary, alternative arrangements must be made either to maintain active contact by other means (e.g. by e-mail) or through the Supervisory Committee. Likewise, a student expecting to be absent from SOAS for more than one month during term time (and outside agreed periods of fieldwork) must inform the supervisor and, where necessary, make alternative arrangements for supervision. 51. It is the responsibility of both the research student and his/her supervisor to maintain cordial and constructive relations with a view to ensuring effective supervision and satisfactory completion of the thesis. However, in situations where, in the view of the research student and/or supervisor, relations between them have broken down, the student or supervisor may ask (i) other members of the supervisory committee, (ii) the Departmental Research Tutor, or in cases where this is not appropriate, (iii) the Head of Department, or, if a satisfactory solution has not otherwise been found, (iv) the Associate Dean (Research), to propose an alternative supervisor.

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52. Particular attention must be given by the Departmental Research Tutor and supervisory committee to the impending retirement or departure of an existing supervisor or periods of research leave. It is the responsibility of the research tutor and Head of Department to ensure that arrangements are made well in advance, and agreed with the research student, concerning a replacement supervisor.

Supervisory Committee Responsibilities

The Supervisor 53. The responsibilities of the supervisor are: a) to agree with the student a suitable topic for research that can be completed and written up within the prescribed period of study. Full-time students are required to submit within four years (three full-time years and the writing-up year) and part-time students within seven years (six part-time years and the writing-up year); to assist the student in making full use of the facilities provided by the School and to encourage him/her to play a full part in the intellectual and social life of the School; to establish a timetable of regular meetings with the student. This is normally fortnightly during the first year and monthly during subsequent years of full time enrolment or part-time equivalent (see item 45) at which all matters relating to, or affecting, his/her work are discussed; no later than six weeks after registration to agree with the student the subject and basic structure of the research project, an appropriate research method, and a realistic plan of work, and to advise on any additional skills required; no later than 12 months after registration for MPhil-only students, and twenty-four months for PhD students, to agree with the student a realistic timetable for completion of the research and writing-up of the thesis. This must allow for completion of active research and a draft thesis within 36 months of initial enrolment (72 months part-time) and submission of thesis for examination no later than 48 months from initial enrolment (84 months part-time); to monitor progress of the student in accordance with the agreed schedule and to advise Registry and the Associate Dean (Research) of any issues as they arise; to arrange (in consultation with the supervisory committee and the research tutor) for a replacement supervisor in the event of absence during term-time in excess of four weeks; to inform the student about requirements for, and procedures relating to transfer from MPhil to PhD; to initiate the transfer at the appropriate time; to liaise with other members of the supervisory committee concerning the transfer and to supply them with copies of written materials for assessment; to advise the research tutor and to inform the student of the result and consequences of the decision concerning transfer; where transfer has not been initiated in May/June of the first year (for full-time students) to raise with the departmental research tutor and the Associate Dean (Research) the question of whether or not the student should be given a further opportunity to proceed to a PhD, remain as an MPhil student, or have his/her registration terminated;

b) c)

d)

e)

f) g)

h)

i)

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j)

the supervisor must make himself/herself aware of the requirements of the students funding body, report promptly on the students progress when required to do so by the Associate Dean (Research) or external funding bodies, and ensure, as far as possible, that the student completes within the prescribed period; to advise the student on correct research procedures, including the dangers of plagiarism, and to report to the Associate Dean (Research) any persistent research misconduct, including plagiarism; at an appropriate point in the students study (and in accordance with University of London regulations) make recommendations for the appointment of internal and external examiners and ensure that the student enters for the MPhil or PhD examination in good time (at least two months before submission) and submits the thesis within the School deadline. For students admitted in September 2007 and after, entry to the examination will not be permitted after 48 months (full-time) or 84 months, i.e. seven years (part-time); and to advise the student on University regulations about research theses and procedures relating to research degree vivas and their outcomes.

k)

l)

m)

Second Member of the Supervisory Committee 54. The responsibilities of the second member of the Supervisory Committee are: a) where possible the second member of the Supervisory Committee should be selected before, or as soon as possible after, a research students enrolment and no later than the end of the first term; b) where the supervisor considers it desirable, to enhance or augment the supervision of the student by contributing additional guidance and expertise; c) to maintain an active involvement with the general progress of the students work and to participate in decisions relating to his/her transfer from MPhil to PhD, eligibility for enrolment on Extension of Writing Up (Continuation) Status or, where necessary, termination of registration; and d) to act on behalf of the supervisor during unforeseen periods of absence Third Member of the Supervisory Committee 55. The responsibilities of the third member of the Supervisory Committee are: a) where possible the third member of the Supervisory Committee should be selected before, or as soon as possible after, a research students enrolment and no later than the end of the first term; b) where required the third member should enhance or augment the supervision of the student by contributing additional guidance and expertise; and c) to maintain awareness of the students progress in the degree and participate in decisions relating to his/her transfer from MPhil to PhD, eligibility for enrolment on Extension of Writing-up (continuation) status or, where necessary, termination

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The Research Student Responsibilities

56. The responsibilities of the research student are the following: a) to attend meetings with the supervisor as and when arranged, to meet agreed deadlines for work, to agree an agenda for future meetings and bring to supervision meetings topics or research material for discussion, and to inform the supervisor of any likely absence of more than four weeks duration during term time (apart from approved periods of fieldwork); b) to carry out his/her research effectively, to an approved standard, and within the prescribed period of study. Students are expected to complete active research and a draft thesis within 36 months of initial enrolment (72 months part-time). Subject to satisfactory progression students may then enrol for a maximum of three terms on Extension of Writing-up (continuation) status and must submit their thesis for examination within 48 months of initial enrolment (84 months part-time); c) to participate in, and satisfy the requirements of, any MPhil/PhD training programme to which he/she may be assigned; d) to agree and abide by a timetable for regular meetings with the supervisor, to submit written work (allowing sufficient time for the supervisor to read and comment on the work) and to make such oral or seminar presentations as may be required by the supervisor or departmental research tutor; e) to follow the Schools procedures with respect to transfer of registration from MPhil to PhD; f) to complete such reports and returns as are required by the supervisor and Departmental Research Tutor;

g) to contact the other members of the Supervisory Committee when requested to by the main supervisor; h) to be pursuing active research based at the School of Oriental and African Studies, London, except during periods of approved interruption or overseas fieldwork. i) j) to remain in contact by appropriate and agreed means with the supervisor during periods of fieldwork; to bring any complaints or problems (including those of a medical nature) to the attention of the supervisor and/or Departmental Research Tutor, and to inform the supervisor of any problems seriously affecting the progress of research and writing;

k) to consult in confidence with the Departmental Research Tutor (or, where appropriate, the Head of Department) if it is felt that a change of supervisor is necessary; and l) to follow the requirements of the School and University with respect to the submission and examination of research theses.

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Departmental Responsibilities
Departmental Research Tutor 57. The responsibilities of the Departmental Research Tutor are: a) to oversee the selection and admission of new MPhil/PhD degree students and the allocation and notification to those concerned of supervisors and supervisory committees; b) to organise (and, where appropriate, run) a training programme for MPhil/PhD students; c) to ensure the distribution and the prompt completion and return of annual report forms and other reports concerning research students. Student progression is dependent on receipt of a satisfactory annual report from the supervisor and enrolment for the next year of the programme will not be permitted without this; d) to ensure the effective operation of departmental procedures for students transfer from MPhil to PhD status; e) to maintain, with Registry, an accurate and up-to-date record of students registration status; and f) in association with the Head of Department and the Facultys Associate Dean (Research), to achieve or maintain satisfactory completion rates within the department.

The Head of Department 58. The responsibilities of the Head of Department are as follows: a) to exercise overall responsibility for the welfare, academic progress and support facilities of research students in the department; b) to ensure that the requirements set out in this Code of Practice are followed and in particular to ensure that the procedures for effective supervision and monitoring of students are fully implemented; and c) to delegate, where appropriate, responsibility for day-to-day organisation of graduate training and supervision in the department to a departmental research tutor, and to assist him/her in ensuring the maintenance of satisfactory completion and success rates.

Faculty Responsibilities
Faculty Research Committee 59. The responsibilities of the Faculty Research Committee are: a) to oversee all matters relating to research degrees on behalf of the faculty including training, upgrade procedures, monitoring of progress, completion and success rates, examination procedures and quality assurance; and b) to provide a forum for all departments and student representatives to discuss matters relating to research students and research degrees.

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Associate Dean (Research) 60.. The responsibilities of the Associate Dean (Research) are: a) to chair the Faculty Research committee; b) to consider applications for exceptions to the normal study pattern or degree requirements; and c) to represent the Faculty at the School Research Students Management Group.

School Responsibilities
Research Students Management Group 61. The responsibilities of the Research Student Management Group are: a) to co-ordinate the management of the Schools Postgraduate Research Degrees b) to report to the Research and Enterprise Committee on policy and procedural changes relating to the Schools research degrees and to seek approvals from REC where required Registry 62. The responsibilities of the Registry are: a) to monitor and advise relevant departments and committees on quality assurance issues relating to research degrees; b) to oversee the administration of SOAS research degrees from application to examination.; c) to ensure the existence of clear and transparent procedures; d) to develop and encourage the sharing and promoting of good practice; e) to support departments and faculties in monitoring and review of procedures and performance; f) to provide advice to departments, staff and students on issues relating to research degrees; and

g) to maintain clear and accessible information on regulations and procedures relating to research degrees on the Postgraduate Research Section web pages (http://www.soas.ac.uk/registry/pgresearch/). Student Services 63. The responsibilities of Student Services are: a) to provide a prompt, confidential advisory and support service to SOAS students; b) to assist students to manage practical, personal and emotional concerns that may impact on their academic progress; and

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c) to provide advice on issues relating to disability, equality, general welfare, visa requirements etc. Pro-Director 64. The responsibilities of the Pro-Director are: a) to be overall responsible for the management of research degrees within the School; b) to chair the Research Students Management Group and the School Research and Enterprise committee

Complaints and Appeals

Complaints about Training or Supervision
65. A student may complain about a perceived deficiency in research training or supervision under the terms of the Student Grievance Code of Practice. The matter should be raised informally with the supervisor or with the Departmental Research Tutor in the first instance but, if this fails to resolve the issue, the student can thereafter approach the Head of Department and, if necessary, the relevant Associate Dean (Research).

Appeal Procedures
66. Appeal against non-transfer from MPhil to PhD a) A student may appeal against a decision not to permit transfer of registration from MPhil to PhD. The appeal should be made to the Departmental Research Tutor in the first instance, but, if this fails to resolve the issue, the student can thereafter appeal to the Head of Department and, if necessary, to the Associate Dean (Research). b) The School will only consider representations from candidates concerning non-transfer made on the grounds of irregularity or administrative error, where there is concern that the process may not have been conducted in accordance with the relevant Codes and/or Regulations, or where there is evidence of circumstances which might have adversely affected the student's performance. c) Those considering an appeal do not have the authority to direct or overturn the decision of the Students Supervisory Committee. Their authority only extends to requiring the Supervisory Committee to reconsider its original decision. 67. Appeal against a decision to terminate registration a) In cases where termination of a students registration has been recommended, the student can appeal, within thirty days of the issue of the notification of termination and subject to the approval of the Director of Registry and Student Services, to a specially constituted tribunal. The purpose of the tribunal is to ensure that the proper School procedures have been followed with respect to supervision and the responsibilities outlined in this Code of Practice. b) The Appeals Tribunal shall consist of: (i) the Pro-Director; (ii) a senior member of a department other than that with which the student is registered; and

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(iii) either a SOAS academic of the students choosing or a postgraduate student representative from the appellants department. c) The tribunal can receive written and/or oral evidence from the student and supervisor. It is required to make its report and to inform the student of its decision within seven days of the meeting and to report its decision to the Schools Learning and Teaching Quality Committee. d) The tribunal can decide (i) to uphold the decision to terminate the students registration, or (ii) to require registration to be resumed (with whatever conditions may appear to the tribunal to be appropriate). In the event of (i), no subsequent appeal will be allowed. 68. Appeal against a decision by examiners to fail an MPhil or PhD Students should consult the Procedure for Consideration of Appeals by Candidates for Research Degrees and associated guidelines, available from the Postgraduate Research Section of the Registry and on the SOAS web site.

69. Further Reading

a) The Postgraduate Research Handbook is produced annually for research students at SOAS. The Handbook includes regulations and information on all aspects of SOAS research degrees. This is available online via the Postgraduate Research Section website at http://www.soas.ac.uk/registry/pgresearch/pgrstudents/ b) Official Regulations and Procedures

SOAS research degrees are awarded by the University of London and subject to the Regulations for the Degrees of MPhil and PhD. These are available online at http://www.london.ac.uk/research_degrees.html SOAS regulations and procedures are in the Postgraduate Research Handbook and in this code of practice. Students must also be aware of individual departmental procedures relating to issues such as research degree training. These are included in Faculty and/or Departmental handbooks available on relevant departmental web pages. c) Internet Resources

There are various places on the web to find further information and advice regarding SOAS research degrees including: The Postgraduate Research Section website http://www.soas.ac.uk/registry/pgresearch/ Faculty and Departmental Websites http://www.soas.ac.uk/academic/ Research Students Portal http://www.soas.ac.uk/research/rsp Research Students Society website http://www.soas.ac.uk/research/rsp/rss/ SOAS Students Union http://soasunion.org/

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Student Services http://www.soas.ac.uk/students/services/index.html Directorate of Professional and Support Services This page includes the Student Disciplinary Procedure and the Student Grievance Procedure. http://www.soas.ac.uk/directorate/services/ School Policies http://www.soas.ac.uk/admin/governance/policies/

Marcus Cerny Postgraduate Research Manager June 2010

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SCHOOL OF ORIENTAL AND AFRICAN STUDIES (University of London)

PROCEDURES IN RESPECT OF RESEARCH DEGREE (MPhil, PhD) REGISTRATION

1 Full-time / Part-time
Students normally register/enrol on a full-time basis for research degrees. Students may enrol on a part-time basis only if the relevant academic department is prepared to accept them on this basis and they provide a signed undertaking that they do not intend to study on a full-time basis. The Conditions for Part-time Study are as Follows: a) Part-time study is half full-time and the expected attendance and supervision will be on that basis, even if the student attends methodological or other courses alongside full-time students in the first year. A part-time PhD programme is normally six years (18 terms). If a case exists for a shorter period of enrolment this must be made and approved before enrolment. Consideration of transfer to PhD status normally takes place in the sixth part-time term. If a thesis is submitted for examination in less than 18 terms the student will be deemed to have been studying on a full-time basis for some or all of the programme, with reference to the number of terms they are submitting in advance, and additional fees will be due retrospectively (pro rata at the fee level prevailing at the time of submission). Entry to research degree examination will not be permitted until any outstanding fees have been paid.

b) c) d)

Terms / Calendar Years

SOAS research degrees are year long courses with the enrolment running from the first day of the academic session until the day preceding the first day of the next academic session. The Schools convention is to use academic terms and calendar years for enrolment periods. For research students terms begin in September, January and April/May and end the day before the beginning of the next term. The summer vacation period counts as an extension of the summer term and does not in itself count as a separate enrolment period.

Minimum Registration / Enrolment Period

University regulations specify a minimum full-time equivalent registration period of two calendar years for MPhil and PhD (unless a student can, exceptionally, be credited with a previous period of study at another UK institution).

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The School specifies a full-time equivalent enrolment period of two calendar years (six terms) for MPhil and three calendar years (nine terms) for PhD (see section 1 in respect of part-time study.) In exceptional cases, the School may require a student to be enrolled for a longer period. A students offer of a place to study at the School will normally specify that the full-time equivalent period of three calendar years enrolment (nine terms) will be required for a PhD programme. However, in very exceptional cases, a students supervisor and Supervisory Committee may recommend to the relevant Associate Dean for Research, that a fulltime student be permitted to submit a thesis for examination for PhD after six, seven or eight terms of full-time study.

Transfer from MPhil to PhD Registration

All students are registered initially for the MPhil. Transfer to PhD, back dated to the original date of registration for the MPhil, is made on the recommendation of the students Supervisory Committee and is subject to satisfactory progress. Consideration for transfer to PhD should normally take place during May/June of the first year of enrolment (second year for part-time students).

Overseas Fieldwork
An Application for Approval to Undertake Overseas Fieldwork/Research form must be completed in advance for each period of overseas fieldwork requested and the fees for the overseas fieldwork period must be paid in advance. Students must be transferred to PhD status before leaving for any significant period of overseas fieldwork. Short trips abroad for datagathering, which do not affect the students enrolment or fee status, are permitted. Students are normally permitted to spend a maximum of three full-time terms (or part-time equivalent) on overseas fieldwork for a PhD, or two full-time terms (or part-time equivalent) for an MPhil, during the normal prescribed period of enrolment (see section 3 above). Agreed overseas fieldwork periods of up to three full-time terms (or part-time equivalent) for PhD, or two full-time terms (or part-time equivalent) for MPhil, will count towards a students prescribed enrolment period. Requests for an extension of overseas fieldwork, in exceptional cases, are subject to the approval of the relevant Associate Dean for Research but must allow for completion of research within the prescribed deadlines. Overseas fieldwork cannot normally be undertaken in the first year of enrolment or during the last term of the students prescribed enrolment period. Students are deemed to be registered for fieldwork status where more than 50% of the term will be spent on approved overseas fieldwork.

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Research degrees are year long programmes and do not follow the School taught course term dates. See section 2 for details of research degree term periods.

Extension of Writing-up (Continuation) Status

Students who have completed the Schools prescribed period of enrolment and who have completed a draft thesis, may, with the recommendation of their Supervisory Committee, apply to re-enrol on Extension of Writing-up (continuation) status paying a much reduced fee. An Application for Extension of Writing-up (Continuation) Status form must be completed. Students on Extension of Writing-up status will be allowed to use the SOAS library but will only be entitled to the minimum level of supervision appropriate to their status. They cannot attend classes. The Continuation period will not be designated as either full-time or parttime study. The Extension of Writing-up period is for a maximum of three terms or until a candidates deadline for thesis submission (whichever is sooner) Requests for an extension of a students Extension of Writing-up status cannot normally be considered. If a candidate has extenuating circumstances for consideration these should be sent to the Postgraduate Research Section of the Registry for the consideration of the Associate Dean (Research).

Interruption of Study
A programme of study must normally be continuously pursued. A student who has not completed their normal School enrolment period but needs to interrupt their studies for reasons found acceptable to the School, will be required to submit an Application for Interruption of Programme of Study form. Applications for interruption must be supported by the supervisor of the student and include supporting documentation (e.g. medical certificates). Students granted interruption status will not be actively enrolled students. They will have no automatic right of access to the School, its Library or other facilities, or to supervision by members of the academic staff, during the period of interruption. Interruption of study periods do not count towards a students prescribed period of study. All applications for periods of interruption are subject to the approval of the relevant Associate Dean for Research. Interruption is permitted only in exceptional circumstances and is not normally allowed for more than a maximum of three terms during a students prescribed period of study. The School will not consider retrospective applications for interruption of study. Re-enrolment to the research programme will not be permitted until any outstanding fees have been paid (see also section 10).

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Maintenance of Registration
Maintenance of Registration Status is only available to students who enrolled in September 2006 or earlier. Students who enrolled in or after September 2007 are not be permitted to submit their thesis for examination later than 48 months from initial enrolment (84 months parttime). Students who are eligible for maintenance status, who have completed the period of enrolment prescribed for them by the School (and may have been enrolled for a period as Continuation students) but are not quite in a position to submit their thesis for examination, will be maintained on the Schools list of students registered for the degree but not in active enrolment. Students with Maintenance Status will not be actively enrolled students. They will have no automatic right of access to the School, its Library or other facilities, or to supervision by members of the academic staff, during the period of Maintenance. Maintenance periods do not count towards a students prescribed period of study. The maximum length of time permitted for Maintenance status is five years (see also section 10).

Entry to Examinations
Research students should enter for examination two months prior to submission of the thesis. Examination entry forms and guidelines regarding the conduct of MPhil and PhD examinations are available on the Postgraduate Research Section website at http://www.soas.ac.uk/registry/pgresearch/examprocedures/.

10

Reactivation of Research
In respect of students on Interrupt status or Maintenance Status, the School reserves the right to refuse, on academic grounds, to allow students to reactivate their research in cases where the students supervisor (or Head of Department in the absence of the supervisor) and the relevant Associate Dean for Research decide that the current academic validity of work undertaken during the original enrolment period is in doubt or where the School is no longer able to provide appropriate supervision.

11. Fees
Details of School tuition fees are published in a tuition fees schedule issued annually. Students are not required to pay a separate fee for examination. However, examination fees are payable in respect of re-examination.

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12. University of London Regulations

SOAS Research Degrees are awarded by the University of London and research students should also refer to the Universitys Regulations for the degrees of MPhil and PhD.

Marcus Cerny Postgraduate Research Manager June 2010

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July 2010 SCHOOL OF ORIENTAL AND AFRICAN STUDIES (University of London)

REGULATIONS FOR STUDENTS OF THE SCHOOL OF ORIENTAL AND AFRICAN STUDIES (subsequently referred to as the School)
Scope of these Regulations These Regulations apply to students of the School registered for degrees of the University of London at the School and for qualifications of the School. In addition, they apply in whole or in part to students of the School not registered for a degree or other qualification and to students of other Colleges of the University of London admitted to follow courses at the School. Students are subject to the Regulations in force for the relevant session. 1 University of London Degrees Under University of London Ordinance 13 the School is authorised to award University of London degrees, subject to compliance with Ordinances 12, 14 and 15. 2 Awards of the School The School may award qualifications, other than degrees, in its own name under the provisions of its Charter of Incorporation. 3 University and School Qualifications Awarded by the School The School may award only those degrees and other qualifications as approved from time to time by the School. 4 Admission to the School 4.1 Applications to study at the School must be submitted by the specified deadlines on the appropriate application forms, together with requested supporting documentation. Applicants for first degrees, including those for entry to other than the first year, must apply through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). All offers of admission to pursue a programme of study as a student of the School are made by the Director of Student and Registry Services or an authorised deputy. No promise or purported offer made otherwise than in accordance with this Regulation has any validity. An applicant will not be enrolled as a student of the School unless he/she has received an offer of admission to pursue the programme of study for which he/she seeks enrolment and has accepted that offer in writing. Admission to the School is conditional upon an applicant signing a declaration and undertaking that he/she will abide by the regulations of the School laid down by, or with the authority of, the Schools Governing Body, as from time to time varied or modified by that Body. Offers of admission are made for a specific entry date. An applicant who is unable to enrol by the specified date, and has not been given permission to enrol late, may apply to the Director of Student and Registry Services to have his/her offer of a place deferred to the next normal entry date.

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

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Approval to defer is not given automatically and is subject to approval by the School. Applications for deferral beyond the next normal entry date, including those for a second deferral, will not normally be granted and, in these circumstances, applicants are required to submit a fresh application. 4.6 The School reserves the right to reject applications to study at the School on academic grounds or if places are no longer available and to give no reasons to such applicants save at its own discretion. Rejections will be communicated to the applicant only by the Director of Student and Registry Services or an authorised deputy.

4.7 5

Entrance Requirements 5.1 5.2 In order to be admitted to the School, a candidate must be at least 17 years of age. An applicant cannot be admitted to the School unless he/she has satisfied any general entry requirements applicable to his/her application, any additional entry requirements for the programme of study applied for and any further conditions set in the individual offer of the place. Candidates for admission may be called for interview and may be required to take an entrance test. Admission to the School is conditional upon the possession of a sound knowledge of written and spoken English. Applicants may, therefore, be required to provide evidence of their competence in written and spoken English. The Schools requirements in respect of English language competence are laid down from time to time by, or with the authority of, the Academic Board. Applicants for admission may be required, as a condition of their registration, to attend pre-sessional and/or in-sessional English language classes at the School.

5.3 5.4

Registration, Enrolment and Re-enrolment 6.1 Before beginning their programme of study at the School successful applicants must complete enrolment procedures. In respect of programmes of study leading to the award of a qualification, initial enrolment will include registration for the qualification being sought. Registration for a qualification remains valid until the qualification sought has been obtained or registration is terminated or lapses, whichever is the sooner. Students following programmes of study of more than one year duration must re-enrol at the beginning of each subsequent academic session as determined by the structure of their programme of study. Registration, enrolment and re-enrolment procedures will be laid down by the Director of Student and Registry Services of the School from time to time and all successful applicants or students must register, enrol or reenrol, as appropriate, in accordance with these procedures. Applicants or students may not attend classes or use School facilities until they have completed enrolment or re-enrolment procedures. Taught course students must return their duly completed course registration forms no later than the last day of teaching week 1 of Term 1. Students who fail to comply with this requirement may be deemed by the Head of Registry to have withdrawn from their studies at the School. Returning students must register their course choices for the following year online at

6.2

6.3 6.4

27

the SOAS website no later than the end of the second week of Term 3 of the previous academic year. 6.5 Students may be registered for only one qualification at the School at any one time, except where a joint qualification is offered. In addition, degree students cannot be registered concurrently for another degree of the University of London. A student who has been awarded a qualification by the School may not subsequently be registered for the same qualification in the same subject or branch of study. It is the responsibility of applicants and students to ensure that information which they provide to the School is accurate and complete. This requirement applies inter alia to application forms, forms for checking of qualifications, and forms for registration, enrolment and re-enrolment. The School reserves the right to withdraw the offer of a place or to terminate or suspend a student's registration or to prevent enrolment or re-enrolment if fraudulent information has been supplied or if information has been fraudulently withheld. Students may be required at the discretion of the School to provide proof of identity, academic qualifications and other information which they have submitted. The School reserves the right to withdraw the offer of a place or to terminate or suspend a student's registration or to prevent enrolment or re-enrolment if proof is not produced within the time limit specified by the School. The School also reserves the right to make such enquiries as it thinks fit to ascertain the accuracy of information submitted to it.

6.6

6.7

6.8

Payment of Tuition Fees 7.1 No applicant or student will have completed registration, enrolment or reenrolment procedures until the appropriate tuition fees have been paid or there is written assurance acceptable to the Director of Student and Registry Services that the tuition fees will be forthcoming from a reliable source such as a local education authority or other formal sponsor found acceptable to the Director of Student and Registry Services. Termly and other instalment payments are not normally permitted. Tuition fee rates are published for specific academic sessions and are fixed for the duration of that session. Students are required to pay the tuition fees relevant to their year of study. Applicants or students may not register, enrol or re-enrol after the specified period unless they have been given permission to do so by the Director of Student and Registry Services. Those so permitted will incur a late enrolment fee unless they have produced evidence of good cause for lateness found acceptable by the Director of Student and Registry Services.

7.2

7.3

Academic Progress 8.1 Students are required to attend regularly and punctually all lectures, classes, tutorials and seminars which form the programme of study for which they are enrolled and any prescribed English language classes. Students are required to comply with instructions concerning attendance which may be issued from time to time by, or with the authority of, the Chair(s) of Department(s) in which they are studying. In addition, students must comply with any programme or award attendance requirements.

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Failure to attend regularly and punctually without good cause may result in the Director of Student and Registry Services deeming a student to have withdrawn from the programme of study. Students must inform the Director of Student and Registry Services if they are absent from their classes for more than two weeks and must supply a medical certificate or other documentary evidence explaining the reason(s) for their absence. 8.2 For a student on a programme of study of longer than one year duration, progress from one year to the next will be subject to the student satisfying the board of examiners in respect of such progression or, in the case of a research student, subject to a satisfactory report from the students Research Committee. Progress in taught programmes of study is governed by programme examination regulations which specify the decisions available to the relevant board(s) of examiners. Students who fail to satisfy the relevant board(s) of examiners will not be permitted, at that time, to proceed to the next year of their programme of study. Such students, if their programme of study has not been terminated, must apply for leave of absence to interrupt their studies for the following academic session if they do not intend or they are not permitted to re-enrol and repeat the failed year of study. Application must be made in writing to the Director of Student and Registry Services who will deem registration to have lapsed if no application is made. For programmes of study which are of longer than one year duration, students are required, where eligible, to re-enrol and follow their programme in consecutive years of study. The School may, at its discretion, grant an interruption of study to a candidate on grounds of illness or other cause found adequate, for a period of up to one year. Applications for leave of absence must be made in writing to the Head of Registry, together with a supporting statement from the students Head(s) of Department(s). An application for an interruption of study of more than one year or a re-application for interruption of study which, if successful, would lead to a cumulative period of interruption of more than one year, will be subject to the approval of the relevant Associate Dean. Applications will not normally be approved for periods of interruption of study exceeding two years in total. Students who interrupt their studies without approval or otherwise fail to reenrol at the designated time may be deemed by the Director of Student and Registry Services to have withdrawn from their studies and their registration will lapse. In such cases an application for re-registration will be considered at the discretion of the School and, if granted, may be subject to conditions imposed by the School.

8.3

8.4

8.5

Student Discipline 9.1 No student of the School shall engage in activity likely to interfere, in the broadest sense, with the proper functioning or activities of the School or those who work or study in the School or undertake action which otherwise damages the School. Students are required to comply with the Schools Statement of Principles concerning freedom of expression and Code of Practice on the booking and conduct of meetings held on School premises. Students are required to comply with all codes of practice, regulations and procedures from time to time laid down by, or with the authority of, the

9.2

9.3

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Governing Body or Academic Board and with all relevant legislation. 9.4 9.5 In their use of the Library, students are required to abide by the rules for its use as laid down from time to time by the appropriate School committee. In their use of the Schools computers, students are required to abide by the rules for the use of School computer systems as laid down from time to time by the Information Strategy Committee. Users must comply with the Data Protection Act insofar as it is relevant to their activities. They must report the existence of any files which are under their control and which fall under the terms of the Act to the Schools Data Management Officer. Conduct by a user in contravention of the Act or which may involve the School in a contravention of the Act is an offence. Contravention of Regulation 9 renders a student liable to penalties, which in serious cases may extend to suspension or termination of membership of the School. Such penalties shall be imposed in accordance with the disciplinary or other procedures from time to time laid down by, or with the authority of, the Governing Body or Academic Board.

9.6

10

Debt or Liability Outstanding to the School or University or another College of the University Where a student has a debt or other liability outstanding to the School or to the University or to another College of the University the School reserves the right to take action to obtain settlement. A debt or liability may include inter alia an accommodation or library debt or unreturned library items or outstanding tuition fees or loans. Action may include: the withholding of end-of-session results or award documents; the withdrawal of library privileges; refusing re-enrolment in the following academic session; cancellation of registration or enrolment and exclusion from the School. Where other measures prove unsuccessful the School may institute legal proceedings.

11

Communications with Individual Students 11.1 11.2 Students are required to keep the Director of Student and Registry Services informed of their current address. Communications sent from the School to an individual student must be regarded as applying to that student only.

12

Applications for Exemption from or Suspension of Regulations Applications by students for exemption from or suspension of the Regulations for Students shall be made through the Director of Student and Registry Services.

13

Compliance with Regulations and Procedures Students are personally responsible for complying with School regulations and procedures. The School will accept no responsibility in the case of non-compliance with School regulations and procedures, but the Director of Student and Registry Services may always be consulted.

14

Approved Programmes of Study 14.1 The regulations for first degrees and postgraduate taught degrees and general regulations for other programmes of study which may be followed

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at the School stipulate inter alia the normal attendance modes and duration for approved programmes of study. 14.2 14.3 The School reserves the right to withdraw programmes of study or courses. A student registered for a taught degree which requires the acquisition of fluency in a foreign language may be required or permitted by the School to spend part of the programme of study abroad for this purpose. The length of the period spent in study abroad shall be determined by the School but will not exceed a maximum of one term for students following a full-time programme of study of three years duration.

15

Conditions of Award of a Degree, Diploma or Certificate 15.1 To be awarded a degree, diploma or certificate a candidate must: (a) have completed to the satisfaction of the School the programme of study prescribed in the regulations for the particular award for which the student registered; within the period prescribed, have been examined in all parts of the examination for that degree, diploma or certificate and have shown a competent knowledge in the examination as a whole.

(b)

15.2

In addition, the candidate must have settled, or agreed to settle to the satisfaction of the School, any debt or outstanding liability to the School or to the University or to another College of the University (see Regulation 10).

16

Teaching Location All teaching for School courses will take place in property owned or leased by the School for that purpose, except where the School specifically authorises teaching to take place elsewhere.

17

Assessment and Examination 17.1 For the purposes of this Regulation the term assessment includes assessment of a course by unseen written examination, coursework, project, dissertation, oral examination, performance or any combination of these. Where used without modification, the word examination refers to an unseen written examination (as in the relevant examination period). No student will be admitted to an assessment unless he/she has submitted to the Schools Examinations and Assessments Manager the appropriate assessment entry form duly completed in accordance with the instructions and in the time period laid down from time to time by the Director of Student and Registry Services. No student will be admitted to an assessment unless he/she has attended the appropriate course(s) of study in preparation for the assessment. Candidates may have their entry to an assessment or assessments cancelled if they have not attended the appropriate course(s) to the satisfaction of the School or in accordance with attendance requirements prescribed for the relevant course(s). Candidates who re-enter for any part of an assessment shall be examined in accordance with such regulations as were current when they first entered

17.2

17.3 17.4

17.5

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for assessment. 17.6 Absence from an assessment will result in a failure being recorded unless the School has given formal permission to defer or the relevant board of examiners has deemed the absence to be for good cause. Candidates who wish to defer their entry for assessment must apply to the Registry in writing before the commencement of the relevant examination period. Reasons for deferral must be stated and documentary evidence should be provided where appropriate (e.g. where the application is being made for reasons of ill-health). Candidates must abide by the instructions to candidates governing the assessments for which they have entered. Failure to observe the instructions to candidates may constitute an assessment offence. Examination scripts, dissertations, independent study projects, or essays for courses assessed wholly by one piece of coursework, are the property of the School and will not be returned to candidates. Students are reminded that all work submitted as part of the requirement for any assessment of the School of Oriental and African Studies (University of London) must be expressed in their own words and incorporate their own ideas and judgements. Plagiarism - that is, the presentation of another person's thoughts or words as though they were the students own must be avoided. Direct quotations from the published or unpublished work of others must always be clearly identified as such by being placed inside quotation marks, and a full reference to their source must be provided in proper form. A series of short quotations from several different sources, if not clearly identified as such, constitutes plagiarism just as much as does a single unacknowledged long quotation from a single source. Equally, if students summarise another person's ideas and judgements, they must refer to that person in their text as the source of the ideas and judgements, and include the work referred to in their bibliography. Failure to observe these rules may result in an allegation of cheating. Students should therefore consult their tutor or supervisor if they are in any doubt about what is permissible. Where students draw on their own previous written work, whether submitted as coursework for their current degree, or for a previous degree or qualification, this must be clearly stated. Coursework essays submitted for one course may not be used for another course without acknowledgement and prior approval. Plagiarism is an assessment and/or examination offence. 17.10 Any case of alleged cheating or irregularities of a similar character, including conduct affecting the security of assessments, whether or not proscribed in the Regulations and Instructions governing the assessment at or in connection with which it occurs, will be governed by the School's Regulations for Proceedings in Respect of Assessment and Examination Offences. Special assessment arrangements for individual candidates for reasons of disability, illness or other good cause shall be determined in accordance with the procedures laid down for the Schools Special Assessments Panel. Applications should be submitted to the Examinations and Assessments Manager in writing by the appropriate deadline. Full details of the Procedure for the Consideration of Special Assessment Arrangements are available

17.7

17.8

17.9

17.11

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from the Examinations and Assessments Manager. 18 Examination Fees 18.1 Examination fees are payable by degree, certificate or diploma candidates no longer enrolled as such at the School and by all part-time students not registered for a degree or other qualification. Fees are payable at the time of submission of the examination entry form. Forms will not be accepted without the appropriate remittance. A schedule of examination fees is available from the Examinations and Assessments Manager in the Registry.

18.2

19

Representations in Respect of Examination Failure A taught course student who wishes to make a representation in respect of an examination result must do so in accordance with the procedures laid down from time to time by the Academic Board. There is no procedure for the consideration of appeals against the academic judgement of examiners. Research degree students who wish to appeal against a fail decision by their examiners should consult the University of Londons Procedure for Consideration of Appeals by Candidates for Research Degrees and associated guidelines, available from the University website.

20

Transcripts The School provides without charge and on request one transcript of a students programme of study. Requests for further transcripts can be considered only if accompanied by the approved fee. Additional copies of a transcript requested at the same time can be provided at the approved fee.

21

Making and Publication of the Regulations for Students 21.1 The Regulations for Students are laid down by the Schools Governing Body and can only be suspended or amended by, or with the authority of, that body. These Regulations will be published annually.

21.2 22

Suspension of regulations Applications for suspension of these regulations may be approved by the relevant Dean. If suspension is approved, the case will be reported in anonymous form to the next meeting of the relevant Faculty Board.

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Tuition Fees2010-2011
For information on fees and loans: For information on scholarships: www.soas.ac.uk/fees fees@soas.ac.uk www.soas.ac.uk/scholarships scholarships@soas.ac.uk

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