“By creating we think, by living we learn” Patrick Geddes
The Admissions Policy of the University is aligned with the University’s Mission and Strategic Plan, appropriate internal policies and procedures and external legislation. Admissions processes will be managed by the University's Admissions & Student Recruitment Service (referred to hereafter as ASRS) who will operate a centralised admissions system for all undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. It will be linked to a defined network of admissions officers and/or postgraduate selectors in the academic schools with devolved responsibility for Distance Learning, Continuing Professional Development and the Continuing Education/Part-time Degree Programme who will adhere to the Admissions Policy as appropriate.
ASRS is a part of the Student Operations Directorate.
1.1 The University provides a service to facilitate entry into higher education at undergraduate level, as well as provide opportunities for post-degree study, both as part of structured taught postgraduate programmes and individual research. To that end, ASRS can offer specific advice and guidance about all levels of study at the University of Dundee. The University is committed to be a leading provider of high quality higher education for local, regional, national and international communities.
1.2 The University will strive to attract applicants from a wide and diverse community, who have the appropriate commitment, ability, knowledge and experience to fulfil their academic and/or professional potential and benefit from the university’s educational provision.
1.3 The University of Dundee values the diversity of its staff and student body and therefore aims to create an environment where staff and students are treated fairly and with dignity and respect, irrespective of age, disability, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, nationality, religious or political beliefs, socio-economic background, marital status, civil partnership or other irrelevant distinction.
1.4 In order to encourage applicants to use our services the University will promote our services and provide clear, consistent and accessible information and guidance for all stakeholders e.g. applicants, parents, schools, colleges, and all university staff involved in the admissions process.
1.5 The University aims to create an environment where excellence in teaching, learning, research and professional development will prosper and the University can continue to contribute positively and dynamically to the local, national and international communities.
1.6 Building on the principles of The Schwartz Report, “Fair Admissions to Higher Education: Recommendations for Good Practice,” produced in 2004 and subsequent published recommendations for good practice,the Universityaims to recruit applicants from a diversity of backgrounds with a wide variety of experience and qualifications, in conjunction with offering guidance, preparation and support as appropriate.
1.7 The University aims to ensure the consistent and fair matching of applicants to suitable programmes in order to help enhance retention and progression rates, and ultimately serve the interests of the applicants, the University and the community more effectively.
1.8 ASRS aim to deliver a consistent, high quality service that will meet applicants’ requirements at all times and serves the applicant’s best interest. ASRS aim to achieve this through a commitment to staff training and an adherence to customer care protocols detailed within the body of this document. ASRS aim to apply all good practice standards across all areas of admissions activity, in both the UK, EU and International markets and strive consistently improve service standards. (Please refer to Appendix 2 for service standards).
2.1 There is an expectation that every applicant will be able to achieve the outcomes of the programme at the required standard. This expectation can be demonstrated through a wide variety of forms of preparation, including relevant experiential learning derived from employment or voluntary work, or through vocational, professional, access and overseas awards, as well as through conventional certificated qualifications. The minimum requirement for consideration for entry to each undergraduate programme is set annually by the relevant academic School Board in partnership with ASRS. In certain professional courses this process will also be subject to professional body requirements. Any proposed amendments will be implemented in the following academic year subject to University approval. The requirements are communicated to ASRS who implement the criteria on behalf of the academic School.
A proven level of academic achievement is generally required for postgraduate study.
2.2 Each undergraduate programme will list the number of Scottish Highers /A Levels and the grades required for consideration for entry. Equivalent qualifications are listed on our website under each programme.
Each taught postgraduate programme will list the degree and the appropriate level of degree required for entry. Entry requirements for each programme will be determined by the programme leader in partnership with ASRS.
Some undergraduate and most taught postgraduate programmes will also specify particular subjects required where an in-depth knowledge of the subject is required. This information is regularly updated on our website, in the UCAS profiles (undergraduate programmes) and is published annually in the prospectus.
For admission to a research degree, an applicant must have obtained as a minimum a Degree with Honours of the First or Second class. A relevant Master’s Degree can compensate an honours classification by one level. Individual Schools may apply additional requirements. Alternative qualifications may be approved for admission if the applicant can satisfy the University of their fitness to undertake higher study.
2.3 The entry requirement for advanced entry to programmes is available in the prospectus and on the website. The entry requirements are higher to reflect entry into level two or level three of the programme.
2.4 The achievement of formal qualifications is not the only barometer of a student’s potential. Admissions staff will assess the application “holistically”, taking into account skills, experience and abilities as well as commitment and motivation to study to establish whether the applicant has the potential to benefit from the programme and graduate successfully. Experience may include knowledge or practice gained from previous work or study, voluntary or community involvement or care responsibilities. Applications will be dealt with on their individual merits.
2.5 Entry for undergraduate programmes will be considered on successful completion of either DUAL (mainly face-to-face) or DLAD (online), and suitability. Additional criteria, for example applicant motivation and personal qualities, may be specified. Some professional programmes may also require applicants to be interviewed; applicants will be informed in writing and again at the selection interview of the specific standard required for undergraduate entry. Predicted or achieved grades, the applicant’s personal and educational situation will be taken into account when considering suitability for these programmes.
More information can be found at www.dundee.ac.uk/dld
2.6 Generally the University advises that those entering higher education will benefit from completing secondary school education, working or undertaking volunteer work rather than entering directly after finishing their examinations. The Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007 provides a legislative framework for those working or dealing with anyone under 18 years old. However in terms of Scots law those over 16 years can contract on their own behalf and Universities do not act in loco parentis for students.
There is no upper age entry limit to academic programmes. Some professional programmes, for example medicine, due to the long training period, may require applicants to demonstrate they have sufficient time following completion to practise.
2.7 The University supports initiatives to promote wider access to all undergraduate and equivalent programmes and is committed to extend access to and participation in Higher Education. The university has a specific engagement strategy and is involved in a range of initiatives which are both regional and national in scope and aspiration. The initiatives to widen access and participation include Inspiring Future Nurses, Discovering Degrees and DUAL/DLAD (as above). They are designed to target individuals, regions and educational establishments where culturally, geographically, socially and economically there is a historically poor uptake of Higher Education opportunities. Full details of these initiatives are provided on the university website, http://www.dundee.ac.uk/admissions/participation/
The University will not positively discriminate in favour of applicants from low participation groups; rather each applicant is assessed on his or her individual merits.
2.8 The University welcomes applications from those leaving care and will work closely with all relevant agencies and organisations to facilitate a smooth transition into study. Undergraduate applicants are encouraged to disclose care leaver status on the UCAS application form to allow us to support positively and pro-actively care leavers.
2.9 The International Office is responsible for advising and supporting full-time international applicants on a wide variety of issues including qualifications, entry requirements, pre-arrival immigration matters, accommodation, international fees and the airport pick-up service. Student Operations organise a comprehensive orientation programme on the University and the City of Dundee. Applicants must demonstrate that they possess the necessary English language skills required for their chosen programme. Each academic School in partnership with ASRS will determine the minimum IELTS (the British Council’s International English Language Testing System) score for entry on each programme, in line with UKBA regulations. Applicants can find this information in the prospectus, on the website or via agents working on behalf of the University.
2.10 Art and Design programmes require academic qualifications and a portfolio of the applicant’s work; offers are based primarily on the content of the portfolio. Guidance on how to present a portfolio is available.
2.11 All applicants are required to declare any unspent conviction on the application form. Normally, admissions staff will disregard any criminal convictions which are spent under the terms of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 unless the programme of study is likely to mean the student will have contact with vulnerable adults or children. For programmes where applicants may come in contact with vulnerable adults or children all offences including spent and motoring offences must be declared and will be taken into account. For more information please refer to http://www.dundee.ac.uk/academic/convictions.htm
2.12 By signing their application form, applicants are declaring that the facts stated are accurate and true. The University reserve the right to make any investigation to verify these facts and reserve the right to revoke the offer if it finds anything presented in the application is misrepresented.
2.13 The DDA (2005) and Equality Act (2010) places statutory duties on Universities to make reasonable adjustments in anticipation of the needs of disabled students and not to treat disabled students less favourably than other students. Universities also have a duty to promote equality of opportunity for disabled people. These duties apply to all services, facilities and benefits the University provides, or offers to provide, for students, including admissions, exclusions and all aspects of teaching and learning.
In relation to admissions, the University will not discriminate against a disabled person:
The University recognises that an enquirer/applicant has the right to request that the existence or nature of their disability is treated as confidential. (Please refer to Appendix three for additional information). Although there is no obligation for any applicant to declare a disability, the University encourages applicants to disclose a disability so that it may consult with them and determine any reasonable adjustments in a timely manner.
2.14 There are competitive opportunities available to individual students depending on the course and the country they wish to visit. Students can study abroad for a semester, full academic year and/or work placement as part of their degree programme at undergraduate or postgraduate level. Undergraduate students also have the opportunity to participate in the TSE programme (Transatlantic Student Exchange) which enables students to study in the USA or Canada in 2nd year. Some degree programmes permit a short period of study in the USA in 3rd year. The Australasia Exchange gives students the opportunity to study in Australia, New Zealand or Hong Kong, usually in 3rd year. Additionally, the ERASMUS programme allows undergraduate and postgraduate students to study and/or undertake a work placement in the EU for a minimum of 3 months to a maximum of 12 months in either a host University or enterprise from 3rd year onwards.
All applications for the above schemes are administered by the Global Programmes Office of the International Office in partnership with the Academic Link Co-ordinators within the Colleges of the University. Applications are considered on the basis of satisfactory completion of the programme to date, and acceptance by the host University.
3.1 Selection for undergraduate programmes is determined by meeting the entry requirements, a good academic reference and an appropriate personal statement, as well as any other requirements set by the University. It is important to understand the applicant’s motivation for the course of study and for selecting the University of Dundee. The application form, personal statement, references, experience, examination results, interviews, and attendance at visit days all can give an insight into motivation.
Applicants for postgraduate programmes are assessed on academic criteria, including references as well as a personal statement indicating motivation and suitability for the programme.
In addition to the normal requirements, research applicants will be asked to provide a brief outline of their research proposal.
Applicants will receive guidance where the selection process incorporates an interview. The guidance will include information on the format of the interview, procedures, the criteria and means by which applicants will be judged. All applicants will receive written confirmation of the outcome of the interview process. All decisions from interview panels will be recorded in line with agreed protocols and retained in accordance with the University’s data retention and archive policy.
Throughout the selection process, all decisions will involve a minimum of two staff members. This includes invites to interview and offer decisions. All staff involved in the selection of applicants will be adequately prepared for the role including appropriate training in equal opportunities.
Interviews may be held at venues elsewhere in the UK or overseas by telephone or through the use of interactive technologies for applicants outside of the UK.
The University aims to give written confirmation of any offer or rejection in a timely manner.
3.2 Feedback at present is only provided on request due to the very high number of applications received. Written feedback wherever possible will indicate possible steps to support future study and if appropriate referral agencies. Feedback will usually only be provided to the applicant themselves and not to any third party e.g. parent, teacher.
Any undergraduate applicant without the requested academic entry requirements will be assessed by Access & Participation staff to establish whether participation on an access programme, such as the University Summer School (DUAL) may offer an alternative entry route.
The University reserves the right to refuse admission to applicants who do not meet our entry requirements or who we believe are not in a position to contribute positively to the university.
3.3 The University reserves the right to withdraw a programme or to make changes in regulations, syllabuses etc without prior notice at any time before an applicant’s matriculation. Every effort will be made, however, to inform applicants at the earliest opportunity of the withdrawal of and any changes to a programme or of an option within a programme.
3.4 The University will ensure that all successful applicants are provided with full detailed and accessible information concerning matriculation to the University. An on-line matriculation guide is made available to all successful applicants.
ASRS will ensure successful applicants are provided with the links required to access appropriate information on the University web pages before each matriculation period.
3.5 ASRS in conjunction with admissions tutors have the right to amend entry requirements during confirmation and clearing. Each application will be considered on an individual basis. Clearing often considers students who exceed standard entry requirements.
4.1 The University has a Data Protection Policy and will adhere to the principles contained in this and its legal duties in terms of the Data Protection Act 1988. It will take all reasonable steps to safeguard the security of any applicant information in written or electronic format. No information supplied by enquirers and applicants will be revealed to external third parties in a way which might lead to their identity being revealed without the express permission of the person who supplied it except in circumstances described in Appendix 4 or unless the University has a contractual or legal duty to do so.
ASRS collect and use data (information) for a variety of purposes about applicants and enquirers. The purposes of processing data include the recruitment of students, the organisation and administration of programmes, monitoring of health and safety arrangements, monitoring of performance and achievements and compliance with statutory obligations to funding bodies, government agencies and other bodies.
ASRS strive to process data fairly and safely in accordance with the Data Protection Act and the University’s Data Protection Policy. Information will be not kept longer than is necessary for business purposes.
ASRS will collect and process personal information for the purpose of the promotion and provision of general advice to members of the public about the University’s services and the administration of applications. This may include the promotion of the services offered by the University by direct marketing means. Applicants and enquirers are able to opt out of our direct mailing list. ASRS will process any personal information collected for these purposes only as long it is administratively necessary to do so.
Applicants and Enquirers are requested to ensure that all personal data provided to ASRS is accurate and up-to-date. ASRS cannot be held responsible for any errors unless the applicant or enquirer has informed the ASRS of data changes. Any inaccuracy relating to data supplied and controlled by UCAS or UKPASS will be highlighted to the individual who will be reminded to relate these changes directly to UCAS or UKPASS.
4.2 Guidance regarding Freedom of Information Act (2000) requests and additional information regarding the University’s Data Protection Policy, can be accessed via the following link; http://www.dundee.ac.uk/recordsmanagement/freedomofinformation/
4.3 All customers will be treated in line with the general procedures stated with the following additions and amendments:-
Personal data shall not transferred to a country or territory outside of the European economic area unless the former ensures an appropriate level of protection for the rights of data subjects, commensurate with those entitled to UK and European customers.
Overseas representatives acting on behalf of the University have been made aware of the University’s expectations that they operate in line with UK legislation and University policies and all representatives have an obligation to ensure active compliance.
The Director of Student Operations is responsible for the strategic direction of the University’s Admissions Policy and ensuring sufficient resources and suitable accommodation are available to deliver the service.
The Deputy Director of Student Operations is responsible for ensuring:
The Deans of Schools are responsible for ensuring:
The Admissions Manager is responsible for ensuring that:
6.1 The University is committed to providing clear, accurate, complete and accessible information on all its programmes, including entry requirements, the admissions procedures, or any non-academic requirements for entry to its programmes. Where additional methods of assessment (e.g. interview or portfolio submission) are used in selection, this will be explicitly stated to support the applicant in the Prospectus, in UCAS profiles, UKPASS and on the University website.
7.1 ASRS will regularly encourage and request feedback from applicants and stakeholders about the clarity and accessibility of the information we provide. Feedback requests cover Visit Days, the website and publications and are gathered by a combination of paper and on-line surveys. Formal and informal comments on the service are evaluated and acted upon as appropriate.
7.2 New ASRS staff are given a full induction into the service and their role within it. The competence of staff is maintained and developed to meet service demands by participating in training sessions, a robust review process and supportive supervision. All training is recorded in staff records. Regular staff meetings take place to foster good communication and understanding of the systems and service. All internal processes are documented and monitored to ensure consistency of delivery. Training manuals support all internal processes.
7.3 ASRS will continue to review material in light of new information and guidance from the communities we serve.
7.4 ASRS will give a full hearing to any enquirer or applicant who believes that he or she has been treated in a way that is not consistent with the Equality Act (2010).
7.5 The University’s Complaints Procedure and can be accessed via our website at http://www.somis.dundee.ac.uk/academic/Complaints.htm
8.1 The University Admissions Policy will be reviewed annually by the Deputy Director of Student Operations and the Quality Assurance Unit in liaison with the Admissions Managers (Undergraduate and Postgraduate), the International Office and relevant academics in order to ensure it continues to meet customer, national and institutional requirements.
8.2 ASRS undertake robust statistical reporting to ensure that offers are consistent and fair and promote equality of opportunity for all. We will review how our policy and code of practice is helping to promote equality.
8.3 ASRS aim to undertake regular customer satisfaction surveys to measure service satisfaction and regularly monitor the volume and nature of customer enquiries. We will analyse comments and complaints to learn what can be done to improve services for the future.
8.4 ASRS aim to that all staff involved in the admissions and recruitment process have sufficient training to deliver a consistent, fair and professional service to all applicants and enquirers. All new staff will undertake a comprehensive induction process. All staff will receive regular updates to maintain customer care service levels. Regular team meetings will be held to maintain service levels and communication.
8.5 ASRS will continue to monitor emerging technologies which can further enhance the level of service we provide. Customer care targets (detailed in Appendix 2) will always be integral to our service planning and performance management systems.
8.6 ASRS welcome feedback regarding the delivery of our service and are always striving to improve customer satisfaction. Please address any comments and recommendations to the Assistant Director.
8.7 Any queries about the admissions process should be directed in the first instance to the Admissions Manager.
In devising the Admissions policy, ASRS has taken account of anti-discrimination legislation by which we are bound and within the body of this policy make implicit and explicit reference to the following legislation:
Student Operations Enquiry Centre is our service access point and is structured to deal with enquiries at a single point of access and operate as part of a seamless customer service. The Enquiry Centre’s main reception will be open from 09:00 - 17:00 Monday to Friday. Outside of these hours, an answering machine service is in operation. The Enquiry Centre is open all year except between Christmas and New Year when the University is closed.
ASRS admissions service will be available in Dundee during standard business hours throughout the calendar year excepting the period from Xmas to New Year when the University is closed.
The University aims to promote a positive image and welcomes applications from disabled applicants, all minority, racial and cultural groups. ASRS aim to ensure that information regarding campus accessibility and support services is available in University promotional materials.
Information may be communicated via presentations, visit days, publications, careers fairs, agents, web communications, text, telephone or by letter. ASRS aim to distribute key information to all careers organisations, schools, colleges, overseas representatives as well as key community organisations. ASRS aim to support a variety of open days, visit days, recruitment fairs, overseas visits and other recruitment activities to provide sufficient access to the majority of applicants and enquirers. ASRS aim to publicise our programme of such activities in advance.
ASRS publicise that we have information in a variety of formats. These formats may include Audio Tapes, Braille, Computer discs, Email, Large print or Software files. All materials (including web-based material) endeavour to meet good practice guidelines in terms of font type, font size, paper type and colour, layout and design accessibility protocols. ASRS aim to provide information in a format that is accessible to a disabled applicant. The choice of format will depend on the individual requirements of the applicant and will take into account any impairment. We recognise we have an anticipatory duty and will ensure that key information such as prospectuses will be available in a number of formats.
The University is committed to providing clear, detailed criteria for every programme in a variety of formats. We will ensure that UCAS entry profiles, website programme information, external websites programme information and prospectus entries (print deadlines allowing) are consistent. The University aims to provide access to the Admissions & Recruitment website 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
ASRS aim to ensure that staff members:
ASRS aim to engage with disability groups and equality experts to ensure that we make informed decisions regarding our publicity and promotional materials. We aim to continue to review our materials and services in light of new information and guidance from the community and relevant external agencies.
ASRS aim to provide an accessible venue at Open Days, Visit Days, Recruitment Fairs, and other recruitment activities in line with good practice guidelines at the University. ASRS aim to provide accessible signage in terms of location and format at the University. ASRS aim to provide access to induction loop facilities in anticipation of such a need at these events. All applicants are welcome.
The majority of applications are facilitated via external organisations such as UCAS. ASRS aim to attend annual conferences to ensure that we participate in improving the processes for all applicants and communicating any concerns applicants may have to the relevant bodies.
ASRS aim to make all reasonable adjustments to ensure that in those circumstances where a direct application route is required, it is fully accessible.
The application form will be assessed by a minimum of two ASRS staff. When an application is rejected, the application will be assessed for fairness and consistency by an appropriate member of ASRS staff. In Undergraduate programmes the Access team will then assess whether the applicant is eligible for either DUAL or DLAD.
These forms of selection are managed by the University’s School Admissions Tutors and School staff not ASRS. The University aims to make reasonable adjustments during the interview process. It is recognised that pre-programme assessment may disadvantage a disabled applicant and the nature and form of the assessment will be designed to purely to assess the essential competence standards.
Wherever possible the University will:
The University will follow best practice guidelines in relation to all selection tests managed externally, particularly in relation to reasonable adjustments for disabled applicants.
During Clearing the University has a very short period of time to consider an application and make an offer. Whilst the University will endeavour to fully appraise every application in a timely manner, it may not always be possible to respond to a disabled applicant as quickly as other non-disabled applications. It should be noted that every effort will be made to make reasonable adjustments in time for matriculation. It should be noted that the closer in time an application is to matriculation the less time the School has to assess and implement any reasonable adjustments, excluding those which should be anticipated.
ASRS aim to answer every call in a timely manner and greet every caller, identifying ourselves as the University of Dundee - Admissions and Student Recruitment. ASRS aim to deal with every call or transfer the call to the appropriate member of the staff and or refer misdirected calls to the main University switchboard courteously and efficiently. If no one is available at the time of the call, ASRS will suggest they e-mail us at contactus@dundee.ac.uk where it will be passed to the appropriate member of staff.
ASRS aim to sort all mail on the day it is received so that the appropriate staff member receives it promptly. Any mail that requires redirection will be sorted on the day of receipt. No private and confidential mail and personal mail will be opened; ASRS will only date stamp the envelope. Exam certificates will not be stamped.
ASRS aim is to respond to all letters in a timely manner or no longer than appropriate statutory limits e.g. Freedom of Information requests. Where a substantive response is likely to take longer, an acknowledgement letter or email will be sent explaining when a reply can be expected.
ASRS aim to respond to e-mails as soon as possible. Where a substantive response is likely to take longer, an automatic acknowledgement email will be generated. ASRS will aim to fully respond within 5 days
ASRS aim to respond to all UK prospectus/literature requests as soon as possible.
ASRS aim to deal with general enquiries from personal callers visiting the Enquiry Centre as promptly as possible and redirect to other departments if relevant.
ASRS aim to refer visitors to the appropriate College, School, or University department and staff member in a timely and courteous manner. ASRS will supply a campus map to ensure callers can easily locate their desired destination on the University campus.
If no one is available at the time ASRS will take your details and pass on your details and the nature of the enquiry to the relevant person without delay.
ASRS aim to sort all applications as promptly as possible so that we can quickly acknowledge all applications electronically or by post. Once the form is processed, ASRS will pass the application form to the relevant admissions staff for consideration.
As soon as ASRS has received the offer decision, we will process the decision via UCAS, GTTR, and UKPASS or directly through our application system. ASRS aim to respond to all applications within 5 working days and to make all offers on all non-interviewing programmes within 15 working days. Where a longer response is likely, an acknowledgement letter or email will be sent explaining when a reply can be expected.
ASRS will offer regular visit opportunities; details will be available on our website and visitors will be able to book online. We will acknowledge all requests for campus visits by email. ASRS will confirm by e-mail all arrangements for visits or by letter on request. ASRS aim to offer a campus tour with a student ambassador or a member of ASRS. If this cannot be done, ASRS will suggest a DIY campus tour which can be either posted or downloaded from the visit day pages or collected at the Enquiry centre. ASRS aim to arrange a School visit for applicants, department commitments allowing. Wherever possible a department visit will be offered to those invited for interview. Visitors will always be given the opportunity to speak about the admission process with a Liaison Officer or Information Assistant.
ASRS aim is to offer a consistent level of service to all visitors. To monitor service levels, we will request feedback after every visit day from applicants regarding the quality of their experience. ASRS will constantly monitor and adapt our procedures to provide a flexible, friendly service.
ASRS aim to produce correspondence that is consistent, clear and uncomplicated. ASRS will create documents that use plain English, in the spirit of the crystal mark criteria. Our aim is to respond to all written correspondence a timely manner or within statutory limits if appropriate. We will advise if a response is likely to be more than 5 days.
No applicant will be discriminated against because of age, disability, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, nationality, religious or political beliefs, socio-economic background, marital status, civil partnership or other irrelevant distinction. ASRS procedures are designed to help us apply fair, consistent and transparent standards in line with the requirements of the Equality Act (2010).
ASRS is committed to encouraging participation of applicants from those groups currently under-represented in higher education.
In addition to the positive anticipatory duty of working to promote equality for disabled people ASRS recognise that the nature and extent of disabilities vary widely, as do the requirements for overcoming any difficulties which disabled people may face. Disabilities will often affect different people in different ways and people with the same impairment may have different needs. ASRS aim to offer a supportive environment to every applicant who has a disability and will strive to support all needs where reasonable adjustment is possible.
The Equality Act (2010) places statutory duties on Universities to make reasonable adjustments to meet the needs of disabled students. Universities also have a duty not to treat disabled students less favourably than other students. These duties apply to all services, facilities and benefits the University provides, or offers to provide, for students, including admissions.
There is also a specific duty on Universities to publish a Disability Equality Scheme (DES), to review the DES on an annual basis, to undertake impact assessments to monitor and measure progress, and to use the outcome of these assessments to inform future planning. Further information on the University’s response to the Disability Equality Duty and a copy of the University’s DES are available at
http://www.dundee.ac.uk/studentservices/disabilityservices/des2010-12/index.htm
Further information on the University’s disability-related policies and procedures is available at http://www.dundee.ac.uk/disabilityservices or by phoning 01382 385402.
The University aim to encourage participation and strive to remove barriers to participation. The University aims to be socially inclusive, meeting the needs of minorities, by being sensitive to cultural differences, making good use of language specialists in the department and making efficient referrals to student support services whenever appropriate. The University also aims to continually endeavour to develop best practice to engage all customers in an appropriate, inclusive and professional manner.
Under the Equality Act (2010), a person has a disability if they have “a physical or mental impairment which has a long term and substantial adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities”.(Equality Act (2010), s6 (1)) This definition covers a wide range of physical, mental and sensory impairments, including specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia, and includes people with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, and depression. Short-term impairments (e.g. a broken arm) are not covered by the Act. The definition of disability also includes people with long-term conditions (such as multiple sclerosis, cancer and HIV) at the point of diagnosis.
There is no duty on the applicant to disclose that they have a disability but there is a duty on the institution to enquire about this. If an applicant requests confidentiality that does not negate the institution’s responsibilities under the Equality Act and does not mean that no reasonable adjustments can be made. It may be possible to provide some adjustments without further disclosure (e.g. providing access to lecture material electronically), although this may mean that the applicant’s needs may not be fully met. It is important that the applicant is advised of this and a written record kept of the agreed decision on disclosure.
Institutions also have a duty to anticipate the needs of disabled applicants generally whether an individual applicant chooses to disclose or not. For some applicants this may mean that there is no need for them to disclose their disability as their programme is fully accessible to all and no adjustments are therefore necessary.
Confidentiality may not apply in a few exceptional circumstances. Any terrorist activity will be reported immediately to the police without prior reference. ASRS may break confidentiality if we have concerns that serious harm may occur to an applicant or others. The University is obliged to break confidentiality where there is a legal obligation on the institution to disclose information. ASRS aim to contact the individual to discuss the matter before any disclosure is made.
Term |
Definition |
|---|---|
| Amanuensis | A person whose job is to write down what another person says or to transcribe what another person has written. |
| Disabled person (as defined by the Equality Act) |
A person who has a physical or mental impairment which has a long term and substantial adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. |
| Disfigurements | Individuals do not have to demonstrate that the impairment has a substantial adverse effect on their ability to undertake day to day activities. |
| Impairment | Includes physical or mental impairment; physical impairment would include sensory impairment such as sight and hearing problems. Mental impairment covers a wide range of impairments relating to mental functioning such as learning disabilities and mental health conditions. Cancer, HIV and multiple sclerosis would all automatically be considered disabilities. |
| Long term impairment | The impairment has lasted at least 12 months, or is likely to last for at least 12 months or is likely to last for the lifetime of the individual. |
| Normal day to day activities | This includes, but is not limited to, activities such as walking, driving, using public transport, cooking, eating, lifting and carrying objects, typing, writing (and taking exams), going to the toilet, talking, listening to conversations or music, reading, taking part in normal social interaction or forming social relationships, nourishing and caring for one’s self. |
| Progressive illness/condition | Progressive illnesses/conditions are covered by the Act from the moment they lead to an impairment which has some effect on a person’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities, even though not a substantial effect, if that impairment might well have a substantial adverse effect on such ability in the future. |
| Aspect | Guidance Examples | What adjustments are needed | Who is responsible |
|---|---|---|---|
| Additional or Personal Support | May include BSL interpreter, note-takers, supporter, additional time for activities | ||
| Communication (including audio and visual, verbal and written) | May include alternative formats, interpreters etc, additional time for activities, room lighting, room acoustics and reduction in background noise | ||
| Continence & Personal Care needs | May include location of toilet facilities, support with toileting, support with refreshments | ||
| Dietary needs | May include food allergy or tolerance issues, food prepared in a particular way e.g. halal, tube feeding | Social Services for any personal care needs | |
| Independence | May include physical / emotional aspects, social vulnerability | ||
| Medical / Medication | May include the need for support to administer, water, awareness of condition adjustments | Social Services/NHS for any personal care needs or administration of medication | |
| Memory & concentration | May include help with information, format or delivery, supporter | ||
| Mobility & physical co-ordination / dexterity | May include location of venues, type and positioning of signage, task adjustments, additional time | ||
| Sleeping / resting needs | May include inclusion of rest periods, regular breaks | ||
| Social, emotional & behavioural needs | May include increased awareness to language and material content, supporters, increased empathy | ||
| Special Equipment | May include physical aids, materials in alternative formats | ||
| Spiritual needs | May include access to area for prayer, time allocated for contemplation, consideration of language and material content | ||
| Travel needs | May include guidance or support to, between and from venues, financial support. | ||
| Other needs | Every applicant or enquirer must be considered on an individual basis. Encouraging sufficient information to make a reasonable adjustment is essential. Advise on identification of adjustments can be sought from Disability Services who will undertake an individual needs assessment as appropriate |
ASRS are required to collect certain personal biographical information (e.g. gender) on behalf of external agencies e.g. HESA (Higher Educations Statistics Agency).
Admissions staff use qualification information to make an informed decision about the suitability of a programme for an applicant.
Voluntary information fields (e.g. whether the applicant is the first in family to study at University level or whether the applicant has been in care) are not referred to unless the application has been rejected via the main admissions route. All rejected applications are subsequently reviewed for eligibility to Summer School to support improving access and widening participation.
All data requested is used solely for applicant and student management purposes and where specified, applicants may opt for the ‘prefer not to say’ option. Offers of programme places may be made if insufficient information is provided to assess an application.
Paper application forms that are not progressed to matriculation will be retained for one calendar year prior to shredding. Paperwork relating to these applications is shredded within the department. Regular collections of shredded material take place. Electronic data relating to these applications will be archived within one calendar year.
The data of applicants who accept a place is not deleted but rolled over into a student field under the care and responsibility of Registry on matriculation. ASRS will not retain clearing applicants’ paper records for more than one calendar year prior to deletion.
For statistical purposes, information is retained anonymously for non-matriculating applicants and enquirers.
Data cleansing takes place regularly by ASRS Data Manager. Any anomalies are investigated to ensure the integrity of the data we store.
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