1. About the regulations

This section sets out the scope of the Regulations for Study at Oxford Brookes University.

1.1  The University’s Regulations for Study (‘the Regulations’), together with the associated rules and procedures referred to within them, form a comprehensive framework for learning, teaching and assessment, and other aspects of the student learning experience, which all staff and students must abide by.

1.2  As set out in the terms and conditions of enrolment, and in contracts of employment, it is the responsibility of students and staff to ensure they are familiar with the current regulations that apply to the programmes on which they are studying, or have teaching responsibilities. Ignorance of the Regulations will not be accepted as a defence, or as mitigation, in any proceedings brought under their provisions.

1.3  The Regulations cover all undergraduate, taught postgraduate, and postgraduate research programmes; and they apply equally to programmes of study leading to Brookes awards delivered by collaborative partners. Any approved variations applying to a specific programme of study will be described in the programme specification and student handbook; and local implementation arrangements are described in the Operations Manuals governing individual partnerships.

1.4  The Regulations also apply in all learning and residential settings, including Field Trips and Placements, as well as University owned or managed properties and ‘partnership halls’, and any other contexts in which students of the University interact with other members of the University community, or the general public more broadly.

1.5  The Academic Board has overall responsibility for the approval and application of the Regulations. In cases of doubt or dispute over the interpretation of any aspect of the Regulations, the Academic Registrar is authorised to make the final decision on their meaning and appropriate interpretation. The Academic Registrar’s advice should be sought as soon as possible when issues arise, so as to ensure they are resolved speedily. However, this will not preclude any challenge being brought through the Office for the Independent Adjudicator, or other legal channels.

1.6  In the event of an incident of Force Majeure (as described in the terms and conditions of enrolment), which causes serious disruption to teaching and assessment, the University reserves the right to deviate from the Regulations. However, this will be in exceptional circumstances, and any deviation from standard practice will be reasonable, fair and proportionate to the circumstances.

1.7  All University staff involved in the implementation of these Regulations will observe the requirement for confidentiality with respect to student information. If it is necessary to disclose or share confidential information in order to consider individual cases, it will only be divulged to those staff directly involved in managing the procedure, or in the decision-making process. However, where a programme leads to professional accreditation, confidential information may be shared with relevant Faculty staff and/or relevant professional, statutory or regulatory bodies, as appropriate.

1.8  The provisions of these Regulations are without prejudice to the rights of the University, the Students’ Union and any other associated body under any contract entered into by a student, and as prescribed by English law.