Disability Equality Scheme 2006 - 2009:
1. University Profile

1.1 The University of Dundee, with a population of over 18,000 students and 3,000 staff, is one of Scotland's leading Universities with an international reputation for excellence in providing a diverse portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes of study, and an excellent record in Teaching Quality and Research Assessment Exercises (RAE). The University's Schools of Medical and Life Sciences were both rated the highest possible 5* rating in the last RAE in 2001, and 95% of the University's researchers work in areas of international and national excellence.

1.2 The University is a major employer in the region, attracting staff and students from a wide range of local, national and international backgrounds. The University is therefore committed to supporting a diverse environment in which all staff and students are treated fairly and equitably and individual differences are respected.

1.3 The University has four campuses (in Dundee City, Kirkcaldy, Gardyne Road and Ninewells Hospital) with the main campus based in a compact, accessible location in the centre of Dundee. There are plans to relocate the University's operation at Gardyne Road to the main campus in the Summer of 2007.

1.4 The University underwent a major reorganisation of its academic management structure in 2006 resulting in a change from seven Faculties to four Colleges; the College of Art & Design, Architecture, Engineering and Physical Sciences, the College of Arts and Social Sciences, the College of Life Sciences, and the College of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing. This included a change in the University's senior management structure with the introduction of four Vice Principals each responsible for the academic operation of one College.

1.5 The University is governed by a University Court which includes representatives of staff, students and members of the local community. The University Court has ultimate responsibility for ensuring that the University meets it statutory duties and legal responsibilities across all areas of University activity. All academic matters are overseen and progressed through the University's Senate which reports to the University Court.

1.6 The University is committed to equality for all, irrespective of sex, colour, ethnic origin, disability, marital status, religious or political beliefs, trade union membership, sexual orientation, age, or any other distinction.

1.7 The University embraces diversity among staff and students by encouraging all individuals to realise their full potential and to contribute as fully as possible to the University community. The University aims to create an environment where the treatment of students, staff and applicants for study or employment, is on the basis of their relative merits, abilities and potential.

1.8 In its commitment to promoting equality and diversity, the University will work collaboratively with the local community and external organisations to eliminate disability discrimination in its functions and structures while continuing to foster positive changes in behaviour and attitudes. The University will also ensure that due regard is given to disability equality in all of its relevant functions.

1.9 This Disability Equality Scheme is one of many policies and procedures which the University has in place to support its commitment to an institutional Equality and Diversity strategy. It sets out how the University intends to meet the statutory obligations of the Disability Equality Duty.

Next - 2. Management and Responsibilities

Contents and Foreword