Undergraduate regulations for Academic Year 2026/27

1. General Principles

1.1 These regulations are based on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF), which outlines the credit requirements and levels needed to achieve academic awards. Credits are earned at different stages throughout the programme of study. Further details can be found on the SCQF website.

The regulations define the minimum standards for admission, matriculation, credit allocation, programme structure, and assessment for undergraduate programmes offered by the University. They should be read alongside information available to the candidate.

1.2 Programmes may set additional requirements beyond the minimum outlined here, which candidates must comply with. These additional requirements must be approved via the Global Engagement and Future Students Committee (GEFSC), Faculty committee and clearly communicated to candidates.

For Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies (PSRB) accredited programmes, these regulations may be augmented with additional specific programme requirements, provided they are formally approved through the normal route, through the Faculty committee and reported to Quality Assurance and Enhancement Committee, (QAEC) and are clearly communicated to candidates.

1.3 These regulations apply to all undergraduate programmes offered by the University with the exception of joint or collaborative awards governed by a partnership agreement. Such partnerships may have their own distinct regulations. Where distinct regulations exist, they must be approved via the agreed oversight mechanisms for the partner institution, published and clearly communicated to the candidates. In the absence of specific partnership programme regulations, the University undergraduate regulations will apply.

2. Admission Requirements

2.1 Academic Requirements 

Admission to an undergraduate programme normally requires applicants to meet the published academic requirements and any additional conditions deemed necessary by the Programme.

2.2. Language Proficiency

Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in the English language through a valid qualification such as IELTS, TOEFL, or an equivalent standard as specified in the University English language requirements, relevant to the year of entry.

Programmes may set additional entry requirements beyond the minimum outlined here, including specific language qualifications e.g., MBChB, BDS, and BMSc programmes. Any further academic entry criteria determined by the relevant programme must be clearly specified in the appropriate programme web pages and communicated to candidates.

2.3 Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL will be considered in line with the University’s Policy and Guidance on Recognition of Prior Learning.

2.4 Advanced Entry

If a candidate possesses qualifications approved by the Programme Lead or Admissions Officer upon entry, and, where applicable, meets the PSRB accreditation criteria for the relevant degree, they may be granted advanced entry into a later level of the programme (for example SCQF Level 8 (usually second year), SCQF Level 9 or SCQF Level 10) as appropriate. In such cases, credit will be recorded against the candidates’ profile for the appropriate SCQF level from which they have been granted Advanced Standing.

2.5 Readmission

Applications for readmission to the University should be submitted through the normal process. Readmission is not automatic and must be approved by the relevant Faculty’s nominated person. Applications will normally be considered if submitted within five years of leaving a programme of study. After this period, candidates may be required to re-enter a year earlier or repeat the programme entirely.

Candidates who were previously required to withdraw must have their application considered by the nominated person, except where withdrawal was due to a breach of regulations as outlined in Regulation 4.10, Termination of Studies. In such cases, readmission to the same programme will not be permitted.

Where readmission is approved, the candidates’ previous academic record will be reinstated in full, and the academic regulations in place at the time of readmission will apply. If an academic award was previously conferred, the candidate will be required to formally surrender that award before they can be considered for a higher award.

Candidates who have received a criminal conviction or, in accordance with PSRB requirements, are required to disclose spent convictions must declare this on point of application or readmission. This must be done in line with University guidance.

3. Matriculation

3.1 For both new and returning candidates, where module choice is permitted, all module selection must be approved via the appropriate process. Requests to change module selection should normally be submitted and approved prior to the start of the semester in which the module is delivered. Changes to core modules are not permitted.

3.2 Under normal circumstances returning candidates can matriculate directly online. However, where a candidate wishes to change their degree programme, or had a termination of studies appeal upheld, they must meet with the nominated person to review and consider options prior to matriculating.

3.3 Candidates wishing to transfer to another degree, in SCQF Level 9 or Level 10 should indicate their interest and discuss with the nominated person. Provisional acceptance to the relevant programmes is granted, subject to meeting the required progression requirements criteria.

4. Programme Structure and Awards

4.1 Undergraduate Programmes Structure

Undergraduate programmes are structured in levels corresponding to national qualification frameworks (SCQF Levels 7-11). Table 1 shows a comparison between SCQF and other relevant frameworks.

Table 1 Comparison between levels of national frameworks

Each exit award (as per Ordinance 39) has minimum credit requirements as shown in Table 2 that depend on the award type and level achieved.

Table 2 Credit requirements per programme type

Programmes with specific requirements that differ from those in Table 2 are shown in Table 3.

Table 3 Named programmes with additional requirements

4.2 Delivery

Programmes will be offered on a full-time or part-time basis normally defined at the point of entry.

Graduate Apprenticeships are delivered on a full-time basis and combine academic study with structured work-based training. The programme is designed to support the completion of 120 credits per academic year, integrating academic learning with work-based learning.

4.3 Classification

Classification of honours degrees (e.g., First Class, Upper Second Class) is based on weighted averages as outlined in the University’s Assessment Policy for Taught Provision Classification Guidelines.

For all non-Honours undergraduate degrees may be awarded with merit and distinction as outlined in the University’s Assessment Policy for Taught Provision.

Candidates who retrieve failed modules through resits or resubmissions will not be eligible for an award with merit or distinction, unless there are approved mitigating and recurring circumstances that have been formally recommended by the Mitigating Circumstances Committee.

4.4 Exit Awards 

Exit awards are available to candidates at each completed level of an award, provided the appropriate credit thresholds are successfully met as outlined in Regulation 4.1, Undergraduate Programmes.

4.5 Module Designation

Modules are designated as core, mandatory or optional/elective, with core modules being compulsory for progression as communicated to the candidates to achieve the named award.

4.5.1 Core Modules

For all Degree Programmes compulsory modules are detailed in the Programme Specifications, the Schedule of Modules, the VLE or the relevant Handbook.

As outlined out in section 4.1 Regulation, Undergraduate Programmes candidates are normally expected to complete 120 credits for each stage of an award.

Where the total volume of core modules is less than 120 credits within an academic year, the candidate must ensure they select a sufficient number of optional modules to make up for any credit shortfall. An exception to this applies where a candidate is repeating a year, where they may be permitted to take fewer credits, as outlined in Regulations 4.6.1 and 4.6.2, Duration of Study.

Candidates will not normally be eligible to progress where they have failed core modules that are pre-requisites for a module at the subsequent stage.

4.5.2 Mandatory Modules

Mandatory modules are modules that, while not classified as core (i.e., essential for progression or achieving the programme learning outcomes) are required to be taken and passed to qualify for a specific named award. They are compulsory for fulfilling the discipline specific pathway.

4.5.3 Optional/Elective Modules

Optional/elective modules are not core to the specific programme but offer the student an opportunity to tailor their award. Timetable constraints may limit optional module selection in any particular academic year.

4.6 Duration of Study

4.6.1 Candidates registered as Full-time normally undertake 120 credits per academic session which equates to 60 credits normally undertaken in triester 1 and 2. The maximum amount of credit permissible is set out in the University credit loading policy.

Full-time candidates are normally expected to complete an Honours degree within four academic years from the first date of matriculation and within the maximum period of registration of six years.

Full-time candidates are normally expected to complete a non-Honours degree within three academic years from the first date of matriculation and within the maximum period of registration of five years (with the exception of BDS and MBChB which require a minimum of five academic years). Full-time candidates are normally expected to complete an Integrated Degree within five academic years from the first date of matriculation and within the maximum period of registration of seven years.

Under exceptional circumstances, this period may be extended by up to one additional year with the approval of the Faculty.

For candidates granted Advanced Entry Regulation 2.3, RPL, the maximum period of registration is reduced in line with the accelerated entry Regulations 4.6.1, Duration of Study.

4.6.2 Candidates registered as Part-time may make up to a maximum of 80 credits in any one academic year. The maximum amount of credit permissible is set out in the University credit loading policy.

Candidates registered as Part-time are normally expected to complete a non-Honours degree within six years, an Honours degree within eight years and an Integrated Master’s degree within ten years from date of first matriculation. This period may be extended under exceptional circumstances with approval from the Faculty.

Similarly for candidates granted Advanced Entry Regulation 2.3, RPL, the maximum period of registration will be reduced accordingly in line with their accelerated entry.

An exception may apply to candidates repeating a year who may be permitted to take fewer credits outlined in Regulations 4.6.1 and 4.6.2, Duration of Study.

4.7 Studying Modules outside the Degree Programme

Where permitted attendance at module(s) in another approved University or equivalent institution may be permitted as part of a partnership or exchange scheme approved by the University. A candidate who has spent a full semester or academic year at another university may be allowed to substitute the modules taken in that university for the equivalent modules listed in the University of Dundee Programme Schedule of Modules and subject to PSRB requirements.

A candidate who has undertaken less than one full academic year of study at an institution other than the University of Dundee may, subject to approval, present modules completed at the other institution in conjunction with examinations and/or work specifically prescribed and undertaken at the University of Dundee in respect of each module taken during the same academic year, provided that:

4.7.1 the choice of modules taken in that other university, and the arrangements for examination and/or work assessed in the University of Dundee, shall have been approved by the appropriate University of Dundee nominee.

4.7.2 a candidate whose performance in modules taken at another university under an inter-university co-operation scheme is deemed to be unsatisfactory, or the equivalent of failure in one or more forms of assessment, may be eligible to enter the appropriate resit examination at the University of Dundee in the academic year in which the period of study has been spent at another university.

An exception may apply in cases where PSRB requirements do not permit this and where such restrictions have been clearly communicated to candidates.

The candidate is responsible for reporting any potential exchange credit shortfall as soon as they become aware of it during the student exchange.

4.8 Suspension of Studies

Candidates may request a temporary withdrawal from the programme due to unforeseen health or personal circumstances, subject to approval by the Programme Lead or nominated person. Approval may normally be approved for a period of up to one year, or two years in the case of a medical break.

The candidate must advise any relevant funding body of the temporary suspension. Candidates are encouraged to meet with their Adviser of Studies to discuss their withdrawal, ensuring appropriate support both during their leave and upon their return.

If the candidate has passed all the relevantDegree Examinations to date, they may, with the permission of the Programme Lead, take one academic year out from their studies in order to enter appropriate employment or training. The year of non-attendance will not be counted for the purposes of meeting progression requirements and period of registration as outlined in Regulations 4.6, Duration of Study.

4.9 Returning to Study

For withdrawals related to health issues, or where there is a PSRB requirement, re-entry onto the programme may require a medical report confirming the candidate is fit to resume studies and that the health issue has been satisfactorily addressed. Upon returning, the candidate may be required to undertake specific preparatory studies, a meeting with the Adviser of Studies or if a requirement of a PSRB, a visit to Occupational Health to ensure their educational needs are addressed for successful progression.

For other withdrawals, candidates will be required to meet with their Adviser of Studies (or nominated person) to discuss their return to study plan.

If a candidate indicates an intention to return to study after a period of one year (or two in the case of a medical break), failure to return will result in their student record being closed. Any academic award for which the candidate is eligible at that point will be processed.

4.10 Termination of Studies

The University reserves the right to terminate a candidate’s enrolment for unsatisfactory progress, non-engagement, or breaches of regulations.

If a candidate fails to achieve the minimum academic credits as outlined in Regulation 4.1, Undergraduate Programmes, Table 4, they may be required to discontinue their studies. In such an event they will have the right to appeal to the Termination of Studies Committee. If the appeal is successful, they will be permitted to continue their studies subject to such conditions set out by the Committee. If the appeal is rejected by the Committee, it may be reconsidered by the Senate Termination of Studies (Appeals) Committee.

Candidates who have had their studies terminated due to a breach of regulations will not be readmitted to the same programme at a later date.

Table 4 Minimum requirements for full-time students at the end of a given year of attendance

5. Assessment and Progression

5.1 Assessment Policy

The University’s Assessment Policy for Taught Provision, provides a framework for Faculties to manage assessment and feedback that ensures transparency, consistency and fairness. Individual module assessment requirements, including pass, progression and award criteria, are detailed in the VLE, relevant Programme Handbook or Module Handbooks.

5.2 Eligibility to take Degree Examinations/Assessments

5.2.1 The VLE, relevant Handbook, or other approved programme schedule will set out any eligibility requirements that candidates must fulfill to be allowed to undertake degree examinations/assessments.

Candidates may not be eligible to undertake degree examination or assessments where they have been absent from module and programme delivery for a continuous period of six weeks, unless the absence has been accepted by the Mitigating Circumstances Committee.

5.2.2 Degree Examinations normally occur in semesters one and two. Where there is a PSRB requirement, to be eligible to sit all or part of a Degree Examination or assessment at any session, candidates must demonstrate satisfactory work, attendance at classes, clinics, and examinations. Any such requirements must be clearly communicated to the candidates.

5.3. Degree Examination Diets

5.3.1 Candidates may only sit Degree Examinations for a given module in the same academic year in which the module was undertaken unless given permission by the Board of Examiners to retrieve a failed module from the previous academic year.

5.3.2 Semester long modules are examined at the end of the respective semester, while year-long modules are examined at the end of the second semester. A single resit examination diet is held in July.

5.3.3 Candidates are normally permitted to attend the resit diet for a module if they either attempted and failed the initial assessment attempt or were absent for it.

5.4 Progression and award decisions can be made by Examination Boards, with details provided in the Guidance on the Conduct of Board of Examiners.

5.4.1 A candidate who fails to satisfy the examiners at SCQF Levels 7, 8, 9, or, where applicable, Level 10, or who, on repeated attempt, fails to meet the progression requirements of the Degree Programme, shall be required either:

5.4.1.1 to retake the examination in the following year without a second attendance:

5.4.1.2 to repeat the failed module(s) with attendance or take alternative module(s) in the following academic year; or

5.4.1.3 to discontinue their studies.

5.4.2 Except with the permission of the Senatus Academicus, a candidate is expected to complete all examinations within the maximum period of study as outlined in Regulation 4.6, Duration of Study.

5.5 Reassessment, Resubmission and Resits

Candidates have the right to one attempt to retrieve a failed module. Candidates who pass (i.e., attain a grade of D3 or above) a resit of a previously failed module will receive a capped grade of D3 for that module, unless a resit as a first attempt is approved as a mitigating circumstances outcome. Capping at D3 applies to the reported module grades, and not to individual elements of assessment.

If the module is not passed at first attempt, the transcript will detail the number of attempts as outlined in the University’s Assessment Policy for Taught Provision.

Where a module or set of modules are retaken in full, grades will not normally be capped or carried forward unless it is a requirement by a PSRB for a particular qualification or as outlined in the University’s Assessment Policy for Taught Provision.

In some cases, resits may not be permitted, particularly by PSRB requirements. Any such requirements must be clearly communicated to candidates.

Candidates may be eligible for a pro-rata fee for repeat modules and should discuss this with their Faculty.

Candidates repeating a year with attendance normally cannot progress to the next level or stage of the programme until they have successfully met the progression requirements of the award, as approved by the Examination Board.

5.6 Degree Classification

Degree classifications will be calculated using a weighted average of module grades as specified in the University’s Assessment Policy for Taught Provision.

5.7 Late Submission

Unauthorised late submission of coursework will be penalised in line with the University’s Assessment Policy for Taught Provision, unless Mitigating Circumstances apply.

5.8 Mitigating Circumstances

In cases of mitigating circumstances the Board of Examiners may at their discretion allow grades to be compensated or condoned for marginal failure where permitted for optional or elective modules within defined limits.

As outlined in Regulation10.1, Mitigating and Recurring Circumstances, candidates experiencing circumstances that significantly impact their academic performance must inform the University through the prescribed process.

Compensation or condonement should not normally be applied where there are opportunities for resitting exams, resubmission of failed work or repeating periods of study in line with the University’s Assessment Policy for Taught Provision.

Where programmes are aligned with the requirements of the PSRB, compensation or condonement may not be permitted, depending on the specific requirements of the PSRB. Any such requirements must be clearly communicated to the candidates and Board of Examiners.

6. Attendance and Engagement

6.1 The University has established a Student Attendance and Engagement Policy, requiring candidates to attend and actively engage in all centrally timetabled scheduled teaching events. The policy outlines the candidates responsibilities for attendance and engagement, and clearly defines the University’s obligations to monitor student attendance. The timetable, VLE or relevant Handbook outline the specific attendance and participation.

Programmes with PSRB requirements may have additional attendance requirements. These will be detailed in the VLE or relevant Handbook and be clearly communicated to the candidates.

For modules where assessment depends on participation in specific activities, or where professionally accredited programmes require it, a higher attendance threshold may apply. Monitoring approaches will be aligned accordingly and clearly communicated to the candidates.

Additionally, certain visa conditions may require the University to monitor attendance and participation in specific ways.

7. Academic Misconduct

7.1 Candidates must adhere to the University’s Code of Practice on Academic Misconduct. All instances of academic misconduct are subject to investigation and penalties as described in the University’s Code of Practice on Academic Misconduct.

7.2 Guidance on the use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools in assessments or coursework must comply with academic integrity policies and the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence. Unauthorised use of generative AI to produce content for submissions will be considered misconduct.

8. Fitness to Practise

8.1 Candidates must comply with the University’s overarching academic and disciplinary policies, including the Code of Conduct.

8.2 In addition, candidates must comply with any requirements specific to their degree programmes as set out in the VLE or relevant Handbook.

8.3 Candidates enrolled on professional programmes leading to professional registration (including but not limited to Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Education and Social Work) are subject to the University’s Fitness to Practise Procedure. These regulations ensure that candidates demonstrate the competence, conduct and health required for the safe and effective practice in their profession.

Where concerns are raised about a candidate’s fitness to practise, these will be considered in line with the Fitness to Practise process of the relevant Faculty. Outcomes may include supportive measures, conditions on study or practice, or termination of studies. Candidates have the right to appeal any decision made under the process. Reasonable adjustments will be considered for students with disabilities or additional support needs, in accordance with the University's commitment to equality and fairness.

Candidates may appeal such decisions to the Fitness to Practise Committee.

9. Fitness to Study

9.1 The University of Dundee recognises its obligations under the Equality Act (2010) and will make reasonable adjustments where necessary to support candidates throughout their time at the University.

The University acknowledges that, during their studies, there may be occasions where a candidate’s health, wellbeing, or disability, whether formally diagnosed or not, may impact their ability to continue with their studies. Additionally, there may be circumstances in which a candidate’s mental or physical health (including health concerns arising from a disability) results in behaviours that pose a risk to their own safety or to the health, wellbeing, or safety of others within the University community. To support candidates in these circumstances the University has introduced a Fitness to Study procedure.

10. Mitigating and Recurring Circumstances

10.1 Candidates experiencing circumstances that significantly impact their academic performance must inform the University through the prescribed process. Mitigating Circumstances claims must be supported by evidence and submitted within the stipulated timeframe described in the Mitigating and Recurring Circumstances guidance. Where such claims are upheld, Regulation 5.8, Mitigating Circumstances, outlines that the Board of Examiners may at their discretion allow grades to be compensated or condoned for marginal failure where permitted.

10.1.1 Reporting Mitigating Circumstances

Candidates are responsible for reporting any unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances that have significantly affected performance in assessments or examinations using a Mitigating Circumstances Form. This must be done by the relevant deadline set by each Faculty.

10.1.2 Reporting Recurring Circumstances

If circumstances are likely to have a long-term impact, the process for managing Recurring Circumstances is designed to ensure candidates are not required to repeatedly report their circumstances, submit forms or provide evidence.

10.2 If the candidate is dissatisfied with the outcome or arrangements offered they can raise a complaint to Student Services or under the University’s complaints handling procedure.

11. Disability Support

11.1 It is not a requirement to disclose a disability; however candidates are encouraged to contact Disability Services as soon as possible to ensure appropriate support arrangements and reasonable adjustments subject to PSRB requirements can be put in place. Candidates can register at any point throughout their degree.

If a candidate is unable to be assessed by the standard methods specified for the programme due to a disability, the University will seek to make reasonable adjustments to assessments to enable the candidate to demonstrate achievement of learning outcomes. However, alternative assessment arrangements will only be considered normally where the candidate has engaged with Disability Services, as set out in the University’s Assessment Policy for Taught Provision.

12. Appeals and Complaints

12.1 Candidates have the right to appeal academic or disciplinary decisions in accordance with the Undergraduate Appeals Procedure.

12.2 Complaints about any aspect of the programme must be raised through the Complaints Policy and Procedure.

13. Aegrotat Degrees and Posthumous Awards

13.1 An Aegrotat award is an unclassified degree that may be granted if a candidate is prevented from completing their studies and/or assessments by illness, death or other cause accepted by the Senate. The University’s Assessment Policy for Taught Provision outlines the circumstances under which an Aegrotat award may be considered.

A posthumous award is a degree that recognises a candidates work completed during their studies and may be considered if the candidate has fully completed all components required of the programme and met the academic requirements for the award. In the interests of respect and sensitivity a posthumous award should only be granted with the knowledge and consent of the next of kin/or immediate family member (or another appropriate individual).

14. Amendments to Regulations

14.1 The University reserves the right to amend these regulations to reflect changes in policy, legislation, or quality assurance requirements.

14.2 Candidates will be informed of any significant changes in a timely manner.