Student handbook

Student Handbook
FOR STUDENTS WHO FIRST ENROLLED AFTER SEPTEMBER 2016
A GUIDE TO SERVICES, POLICIES AND
REGULATIONS FOR STUDENTS ENROLLED
ON UNDERGRADUATE AND POSTGRADUATE
TAUGHT PROGRAMMES.

Student Handbook 2019/20 – version for students who first enrolled after September 2016
Introduction
What is the Student Handbook for?
As a student you have certain rights and you can expect Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU)
and its employees to honour those rights. We also expect you to recognise the rights of others and
to meet your responsibilities, as laid out in the University’s rules, policies and regulations.
The Student Handbook highlights your rights and responsibilities and includes links to
supplementary information and guidance from different University departments.
Why do I need the Student Handbook?
LJMU is a large and complex organisation and we want to ensure that you know how to access the
information, support and guidance you need to succeed in your studies. The Student Handbook
outlines the facilities and support services that are available across the University and how you can
access them.
If you have any queries about any of the topics or issues in this Handbook, or if you have any other
questions, please contact registryservices@ljmu.ac.uk .

Contents Page number
Chapter 1: Registration and enrolment 5
1.1 Principles of Partnership 5
1.2 Student registration 5
1.3 Enrolment 6
1.4 When does enrolment take place? 7
1.5 Disclosing criminal convictions 7
1.6 Disclosure and Barring Service Check (formerly CRB check) 8
1.7 Student Code of Behaviour and Student Discipline 8
1.8 Community relations 9
1.9 Equality and diversity 9
Chapter 2: Your student record 11
2.1 About your student record 11
2.2 Updating your student record 11
2.3 Data protection 12
2.4 Your student identity card 13
Chapter 3: Attendance 15
3.1 Attendance policy (Home/EU students) 15
3.2 Attendance policy (international students) 16
3.3 What to do if you are ill 17
3.4 What could happen if you do not attend University 18
3.5 Leave of Absence policy 18
Chapter 4: Your degree 20
4.1 Academic Framework 20
4.2 Academic support 20
4.3 Personal Tutors 21
4.4 Study skills 22
4.5 CareerSmart 22
4.6 Work-related learning 22
4.7 Studying abroad 23
4.8 Occupational Health Unit 23
4.9 Fitness health assessments 23
4.10 Fitness to practise 25
4.11 Fitness to study 25
4.12 Final degree awards 26
4.13 Freedom of speech 26
4.14 Intellectual property 27
4.15 Student complaints 27
4.16 Social media 28
Chapter 5: Examinations, assessment and feedback 29
5.1 Examinations 29
5.2 Marks and feedback 30
5.3 Personal Circumstances 30
5.4 Referrals and exceptional second referrals 32
5.5 Deferrals 33
5.6 Boards of Examiners 34

5.7 Assessment regulations 34
5.8 Academic appeals 34
5.9 Academic misconduct 35
Chapter 6: Student support and advice 37
6.1 Registry Services 38
6.2 Student Advice and Wellbeing 38
6.3 Counselling service 38
6.4 Mental health support 38
6.5 Spiritual support 39
6.6 Quiet spaces 39
6.7 Careers, Employability and Enterprise Support 39
6.8 Computing facilities 41
6.9 Your LJMU username and password 41
6.10 Proper use of computing resources 42
6.11 Fire safety 43
6.12 Health and safety responsibilities 43
6.13 Security on campus 44
6.14 Alcohol, drugs and smoking 44
Chapter 7: Libraries 45
7.1 Campus facilities 45
7.2 Copyright 46
Chapter 8: Student life 48
8.1 Student life 48
8.2 Liverpool John Moores Students’ Union 48
8.3 National Union of Students (NUS) 49
8.4 Equality and diversity 49
Chapter 9: Additional advice for international students 51
9.1 Enrolment 51
9.2 Registering with the Police 52
9.3 Attendance policy for international students 52
9.4 Working in the UK 53
9.5 Visas and visa renewal 53
9.6 English language support 54
9.7 International students with families 54
9.8 Fees and funding advice 54
Chapter 10: Fees and funding 55
10.1 Tuition fees 55
10.2 What happens if you don't pay your fees 56
10.3 What happens if you want to leave your course and LJMU 56

Chapter 1: Registration and enrolment
It’s not just new students who have to enrol at LJMU – every student on every programme at the
University has to re-enrol at the start of each academic year.
Enrolment is really important because it officially confirms that you are a student at LJMU and it is
your opportunity to check and, if necessary, update a range of key personal and programme details.
If you have any queries about registering for the 2019/20 academic year, please call the Student
Registration Helpline:
• tel: 0151 231 3289 (9am – 4.30pm)
• email: studentregistration@ljmu.ac.uk
1.1 Principles of Partnership
The Principles of Partnership sets out a series of expectations, standards and responsibilities that we
each need to meet in order for you to achieve your academic and personal ambitions while you are a
student at LJMU.
It is not an exhaustive list and that’s why you are advised to take the time to read through the
Principles of Partnership and the University’s rules and regulations.
If you are a Postgraduate Research student, you should refer to your Code of Practice for Researchers
and Supervisors, details of which will be included in your research handbook.
1.2 Student registration
Every student has to complete re-registration for their programme of study at the start of every
academic year.
You will be asked to check, update (if appropriate) and approve a range of personal information on
your student record, such as your home and term-time addresses and to confirm the programme
you will be studying.
If you are a new first year undergraduate or postgraduate student just starting your course at LJMU,
you will be asked to come to one of our enrolment venues to formally complete your enrolment at
the University. You will need to bring formal identification with you as a driving licence or passport
and you will collect your LJMU student identity card. You can check where you need to go for your
enrolment and what documents you need to bring with you by clicking on the Before You Arrive
website.
Continuing students can re-register just using online Student Self Service. You will only need to come
into university if you need to make changes to your student record that requires you to bring in
specific documentation or if you have specific queries about your programme or modules.

1.3 Enrolment
Enrolment is when you check, amend and confirm a range of personal information held about you by
the University. You will also be asked to confirm that you are registered on the right academic
programme for that specific academic year. Every student at LJMU has to enrol formally at the
University every year. Once you have submitted your online registration form you will receive a copy
of the LJMU Conditions of Enrolment in your LJMU email account. You should keep this document
safe as this summarises the contract between you and LJMU.
During enrolment, you will sign a declaration (see below) which states that you agree to:
• follow LJMU’s policies and regulations
• The University’s Data Protection Policy
• accept liability to pay your tuition fees
These policies and regulations are summarised in the LJMU Principles of Partnership but you should
also take the time to read the full policies as well.
Student statement
I certify the details supplied on the student registration form are correct and that I have
declared any previous study at LJMU (failure to disclose this information may jeopardise your
final award outcome). I can confirm that the existence of LJMU’s terms and conditions and its
rules and regulations (LJMU Regulations) have been brought to my attention and made
available to me via the Conditions of Enrolment, the Student Handbook and LJMU’s website. I
certify that I have been given the opportunity to read and fully understand the terms of the
LJMU Regulations. I agree to abide by the LJMU Regulations.
I accept responsibility for the payment of tuition fees in the absence of any other form of
sponsorship, and agree to pay any instalments on the due date. I recognise that the
University will apply sanctions if I fail to pay my tuition fees on time. I will check my LJMU
email account weekly/regularly and ensure I respond appropriately to all University
communications.
Data protection statement
LJMU takes your privacy very seriously and will keep your personal data secure at all times.
We will only use the information provided on this registration form to register you as a student
at LJMU and to provide you with educational services and for legitimate business reasons.
More information on how we use your personal data is set out in our Student Fair Processing Notice.
We also use your personal data to meet the legal requirements of the University’s regulatory
bodies and government departments. More information on how and why our statutory bodies
receive your information and who they share your information with can be found in our Student Data
Collection Notice.

If the University wishes to use your personal information in any other way, we will ask
your permission first.
If you need further information about this notice or how we use your personal data, you
can contact The University’s Data Protection Officer by email: DPO@ljmu.ac.uk or by
phone on 015 904 6134.
1.4 When does enrolment take place?
Most students are asked to enrol in August or September, just before the start of the new academic
year. Some students, such as nursing and postgraduate research students, may be asked to enrol at
other times as their courses follow a different academic calendar. You will be told when you need to
enrol by the University.
1.5 Disclosing criminal convictions
Criminal convictions are not a bar to studying at LJMU, but the University does insist upon applicants
and students disclosing any relevant convictions that might impact upon your study at the
University.
You should tell LJMU about any 'spent' or 'unspent' convictions that may be relevant to your course.
If you are charged or convicted of a criminal offence while you are a student at LJMU (or between
the time you are offered a place and the start of your course), you must inform the University
immediately giving details of the charges and/or conviction.
The University will assess criminal convictions disclosures in the light of the assessed risk to other
students, to staff, and to University property.
Any information provided in relation to criminal convictions declarations will be treated in the
strictest confidence, securely maintained and disclosed only to specific individuals who require this
information as part of their duties. This information will be stored separately from your academic
record, and in accordance with data protection regulations.
While criminal convictions will not automatically preclude students from all courses, it is important
to note that failure to disclose relevant criminal convictions may result in a place being withdrawn or
you being required to leave the University before having completed your studies.
All disclosures regarding criminal records will be considered under the LJMU Criminal Convictions
Procedure.
For more information, read LJMU’s Criminal Convictions Procedure
If you have any queries, email: StudentGovernance@ljmu.ac.uk

1.6 Disclosure and Barring Service Check (formerly CRB check)
Some professional courses are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and you may be
asked to disclose all convictions, regardless of date. For these programmes, spent convictions, cases
pending, and police cautions must be disclosed regardless of the date.
Some professional programmes or modules may require you to undertake a criminal records check.
This involves completing a Disclosure and Barring Service Form (DBS), for which there may be a
charge and the production of documents to verify your identity.
The Disclosure and Barring Service processes the form and returns a certificate to you. You will be
required to show your certificate to LJMU. You will not be able to start your programme or
placement until you have done this.
Since summer 2013, the DBS service offers a new subscription Update Service, which allows
individuals to keep their DBS certificate up-to-date so that they can take it with them when they
move jobs or roles.
If you subscribe to the Update Service, LJMU - with your consent - will be able to carry out online
status checks to ensure that your DBS certificate is accurate and that there is no new information.
If any convictions are shown on your DBS certificate, they will be considered by the respective
Faculty Criminal Convictions Panel, which has representation from professional placement providers.
If a DBS certificate is a course requirement then it will be clearly stated in the Programme Fact File
and Programme Handbook.
For more information, read LJMU’s Criminal Convictions Procedure
If you have any queries, email: StudentGovernance@ljmu.ac.uk

1.7 Student Code of Behaviour and Student Discipline
Student Code of Behaviour
It is essential for a large organisation like LJMU to create and maintain an atmosphere that is
conducive to the academic and social well-being of the University community. LJMU expects
everyone at the University (this includes students, staff and visitors to the campus) to conduct
themselves at all times in a manner which demonstrates respect for the University, its staff, students
and the wider community.
LJMU’s expectations with respect to student behaviour are set out in the Student Code of Behaviour.
The Code of Behaviour applies to all current students registered at the University and includes
behaviour on and off LJMU premises, including practice placements, field trips, and in student
accommodation. For further information, read the Code of Behaviour in full.
No member of staff, or fellow student, should be expected to put up with challenging and
intimidating behaviour – they can, and should, refuse to engage with anybody behaving in this way.
Breaches of the Student Code of Behaviour could mean that you face disciplinary procedures, which
provide a framework for dealing with issues of misconduct.
Student discipline
If complaints about unacceptable behaviour do arise, LJMU will normally try to deal with the issues
informally in the first instance, by getting students to recognise the problem and change their
behaviour voluntarily.
However, if the breach of the behaviour code is deemed to be serious, or the informal approach is
not appropriate or does not work, then the University will deal with the problem through the formal
disciplinary procedures.
If an allegation is proven, the University can apply a range of sanctions and penalties, which are listed
in the Student Disciplinary procedures. Students should be aware that serious breaches of the code of
behaviour could result in a recommendation of expulsion from the University.
For further advice on the Student Disciplinary Procedures, email: StudentGovernance@ljmu.ac.uk
Independent advice and guidance on this and other issues can be obtained by contacting John Moores
Students’ Union: www.jmsu.co.uk
1.8 Community relations
LJMU works closely with Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Police, Merseyside Fire Service and other
organisations to support and maintain positive community relationships.

The most common complaints about students received by the University involve:
• Excessive noise (day or night)
• Anti-social behaviour
LJMU is committed to responding to concerns in the community over student behaviour and aims to
encourage high standards of conduct.
Everyone at LJMU – staff, students and visitors – has a role to play in maintaining positive
community relations across the University. Failure to meet your responsibilities in this regard may
result in disciplinary action being taken.
1.9 Equality and diversity
LJMU is committed to creating a learning and working environment which values and recognises the
full potential of each individual. The University has a comprehensive Equality and Diversity Policy
that complies with national and European Union anti-discriminatory legislation. The policy articulates
the rights and respects pertaining to every individual and a clear commitment for challenging
discrimination.
For example, LJMU will not tolerate any form of unfair discriminatory practice, violence and
extremist behaviour, hate crime, terrorism activities, harassment including offensive remarks or
language, graffiti, pin-ups and jokes, which are based upon a person's protected characteristic(s).
The nine protected characteristic identified by the Equality Act 2010 are:
• Age
• Sex
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race
• Religion or beliefs
• Sexual orientation
• Marriage and civil partnership
Unwelcome physical advances also constitute harassment. Students may be disciplined or dismissed
where discrimination is proven.
We advise you to read LJMU Equality and Diversity Policy, including the Equality Objectives and
Action Plans. More information on University’s Equality Objectives and Action Plans is available
here. You can also email equality@ljmu.ac.uk for further information

Chapter 2: Your student record
2.1 About your student record
Students at LJMU have their own student record.
This record contains:
• Personal information – such as your full name, age, home and term-time address, ethnicity
and educational background, if you are disabled, a record of your criminal convictions
(where relevant), your eligibility for student funding, bursaries and if you have been
awarded any scholarships.
• Information about what you are studying – such as the programme title, details on the core
and option modules you’ll be studying this year, any marks you’ve received to date, details
on work-related learning, your performance in graduate skills (where relevant) and much
more.
It is your responsibility to make sure that your Student Record contains up-to-date and accurate
personal and programme information. You will be asked to check and if necessary update this
information when you enrol at the start of each academic year.
Your full student record will be maintained by the University throughout your studies at LJMU and
for a further one year after you leave or graduate.
After this time, the only documentation that we guarantee to keep in perpetuity will be a transcript
of your results, the information required for your Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR), and
a standard academic reference.
Certain materials may be held for longer periods to comply with legal requirements, for quality
assurance purposes, to meet professional body requirements, or the needs of a validation body.
These will be held, wherever practicably and appropriately, anonymously or with your consent.
For more information, read the University’s Data Protection Policy.
2.2 Updating your student record
There will be times when LJMU needs to get hold of you or send you some official correspondence. If
you’ve changed mobile phone numbers or moved house but not updated your student record we
won’t be able to get hold of you and important (and possibly confidential mail) could be delivered to
the wrong address.

LJMU will not be held responsible for any problems that occur because of any delays resulting
from, for example, information being sent to the wrong address if you did not let us know about
changes to your personal details. That is why it is important that you regularly check and update
your personal information using Student Self Service. You are able to update some of your
personal information using My Services at My LJMU . You can do this at any time during the
academic year.
This key information includes:
• Your term-time address
• Contact telephone and mobile phone numbers
• Next of kin/Emergency contact details
If your permanent address or name changes after enrolment you will have to complete and submit
a change of name or address form on the My LJMU portal attaching, the relevant documentation.
2.3 Data protection
LJMU needs to obtain and process certain information about our students to allow us to register
students, organise programmes, and to carry out other essential university activities.
The University cannot exercise its responsibilities and fulfil its education, training and support
obligations, without holding and using this personal data.
We process your personal data for:
• Recruitment
• Admission
• Enrolment
• Administration of our programmes of study and student support
• Funding arrangements
• Monitoring performance and attendance
• Supervision, assessment and examination
• Graduation
• Alumni relations
• Advisory, and pastoral purposes
• Health and safety management
• Research, statistical and archival purposes
The information collected by LJMU is stored safely and securely, used fairly, and not disclosed to any
other person unlawfully. To do this LJMU complies with the General Data Protection Regulation 2018.
The University, all staff or others who process or use any personal information must ensure that
they follow the University’s data protection regulations.
For more information, read the University’s Data Protection Policy.

If you have any questions about our Data Protection procedures, please contact the Data Protection
Officer:
• tel: 0151 231 3116
• email: secretariat@ljmu.ac.uk
We also process applicant and student data to meet our statutory and other binding obligations.
These may include submission of statistical returns to Government or its agencies, including the
Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), the Higher Education Statistics Agency
(HESA), the Student Loan Company (SLC), the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) or other
equivalent bodies from other countries.
For more information, please read the Student Data Collection Notice.
As a Tier 4 licensed sponsor we may be required to give information to the UK Visas and Immigration
(UKVI) about students with visas to study. Our sponsorship duties include informing UK Visas and
Immigration (UKVI) if a student fails to register, withdraws, or fails to attend classes and hand in work.
LJMU cannot release any information to parents, or other sponsors, without your consent or in very
particular circumstances around the protection of health as outlined in the General Data Protection
Regulations. Where parents or sponsors pay tuition fees, this does not give them a right of access to
your personal information. All necessary information will be issued to you, the student, directly. It is
then your responsibility to pass relevant information onto your parents or sponsors. In some
particular cases the University may ask you to sign an agreement to seek your permission to provide
information directly to a sponsor, e.g. an employer. In this event you are giving your permission for
the University to provide this information directly to the sponsor.

2.4 Your student identity card
All staff and students at LJMU are issued with their own identity (ID) card.
Your ID card is really important because it:
• gives you access to University buildings and key facilities [Please note your ID card can
provide a record of your engagement in University buildings and using University services,
such as libraries, printers, etc.]
• is used to record your attendance at teaching events
• enables you to use the Libraries, borrow books and much more
• proves your identity when you are handing in any assignments or when you are sitting your
exams
• lets you use the University’s computing and printing facilities
• lets LJMU Security staff know who should – and who should not – be on University premises
• proves your identity when collecting grant and bursary cheques
You will be given your ID card when you first enrol at the University at the very start of your
programme. You should never use anyone else’s ID card or lend yours to someone else.
It is your responsibility to keep your University ID card safe and ensure that it is not misused by any
other person. University cards are not transferable between individuals and if your card is found to be
in the possession of anyone else, it will be confiscated. You may be disciplined and be expected to pay
for the cost of a replacement card.
If you lose your ID card, or it is stolen, the first thing you need to do is tell the University’s Security
Services as soon as possible by calling 0151 231 5649.
To obtain a replacement card you will need to go to the Library Services Team at your local LJMU
Library, where staff will be able to produce a new card for you. If you have lost your card, your
replacement ID card will cost you £10. If it was stolen, and you can give a Police Crime Number, you
will not have to pay the replacement fee.
Your old card will be cancelled and this means that it will not work even if you recover it at a later
date.

Chapter 3: Student Engagement and Attendance
Our aim is to encourage and support you throughout your time at University to achieve your full
potential by providing a supportive learning environment. One indicator of your likely success is
good engagement with all aspects of your studies, including attendance at timetabled classes. We
have extensive evidence that shows us that students with high levels of attendance at timetabled
classes get the best marks.
To support this activity we will monitor your attendance at all programme related course activity.
This includes activities such as; timetabled teaching events, research supervision sessions,
placements and personal tutorials. The key driver for this is to support students to succeed by
identifying at an early stage any student who is starting to disengage with their studies. Our Student
Engagement Officers located in your Faculty are on hand to provide you with help, guidance and
support on any aspect that is preventing you from attending your studies.
We will contact you via email if we are worried about you not attending classes to check if
everything is ok. If you continue not to attend classes, we will ask you to come into University and
meet with either your Personal Tutor or Programme Leader. We hope that we will be able to
support you to catch up with any content that you have missed and that you and that you
successfully re-engage with your programme.
In addition to monitoring your attendance at programme related events, all students must also
complete an email attendance exercise confirming their ongoing attendance at the University during
both Semester 1 and Semester 2. An email will be sent to your LJMU email account and you will be
expected to reply accurately and promptly to these emails.
International students should be aware that should they fail to respond to the attendance
confirmation e-mails they will be reported to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) who may take action
against them.
Please contact registryservices@ljmu.ac.uk if you have any questions about attendance and
absence reporting.
Don’t forget, we’re here to help and support you, all you need to do is ask.

3.1 Attendance policy (Home/EU students)
Undergraduate degree students
The attendance of undergraduate students is monitored on a regular basis during teaching periods.
• If you miss one week of timetabled activities, LJMU will contact you via your University
email account to find out why you haven't been coming in and to make sure everything is
ok.
• If you are absent for three consecutive weeks without explanation, you will be asked to
arrange a meeting with your Personal Tutor to discuss your reasons for absence and to identify any
additional support that you might require to successfully continue on your programme of study.
• If you are absent for four consecutive weeks you will be required to attend an interview
with your Programme Leader to discuss your future at LJMU. Failure to attend this interview
could result in you automatically being withdrawn from the programme of study.
Authorised absence
It is possible to arrange a period of up to four weeks authorised absence from the University in
exceptional circumstances, for example following bereavement or serious personal/family
difficulties. Only your Programme Leader can authorise such an absence.
Please contact your Programme Leader or click here for more details about LJMU's attendance
and absence policies.
3.2 Attendance policy (international students) – please also read Chapter 9
LJMU is required by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to monitor the attendance of all Tier 4
international students studying at the University.
As a Tier 4 international student, you will be required to confirm your attendance at LJMU via
monitoring exercises that take place throughout your programme of study. These include:
• Enrolment: you must complete the enrolment process at the start of each academic year.
The deadline for completion is within 10 days of the programme start date
• Face-to-face verification: you must report to their Faculties at appointed times (pre-
Christmas break and pre-Spring break)
• Census points: each month your engagement with scheduled teaching and learning activities
will be monitored through your attendance at lectures, submission of work, assessments,
etc.

If you are absent for any reason you must notify your tutors. LJMU has a responsibility to report to
UKVI any student who:
• fails to enrol or complete their attendance confirmation
• withdraws from their programme of study
• has any significant changes in their circumstances
You are advised to read the International Students Attendance Policy or visit:
www.ljmu.ac.uk/about-us/public-information/student-regulations/guidance-policy-and-process
Please note this policy does not cover students with visitor visas.
For further advice, please contact the International Student Advisers:
• tel: 0151 231 3673
• email: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk
3.3 What to do if you are ill
From time to time, you may need to take time off from your studies due to ill health. This could
range from a couple of days right through to having to go on a leave of absence from your studies to
recuperate from serious illness or surgery.
In the first instance (and in the first few days of illness), it is important that you notify the University
of your absence by completing the absence notification form, available by logging onto My LJMU.
If you have any queries, you should contact registryservices@ljmu.ac.uk
Should the period of illness (regardless of length) cover an assessment period, then you must speak
to your personal tutor or programme leader. You should also refer to the Personal Circumstances
Policy
If you require advice about the EC process, you can contact the Academic Support Adviser:
• email: stayoncourse@ljmu.ac.uk
• tel: 0151 231 3162
If your sickness/ill-health is long term, you may want to think about suspending your studies until you
feel able to continue. Before you do anything, you should contact the Student Engagement Team to
discuss what options are open to you and if appropriate how to go about suspending your studies.
For further information, please contact the Student Advice and Wellbeing team:
• email: studentengagement@ljmu.ac.uk
• tel: 0151 231 3664
In some cases, illness may leave students with long-term health conditions and/or disabilities. Staff
within the Student Advice and Wellbeing team will also be able to give further advice on disability
issues and the range of support available to you.

For further information, contact the Disability Team:
• email: disability@ljmu.ac.uk
• tel: 0151 231 3165/3164
Please note:
• You should be aware that you do need academic permission to suspend your studies so
you should include your tutor in any discussions you have about this.
• There are implications to suspending your studies at LJMU. You will need to work these
through prior to making any decision about your future.

3.4 What could happen if you do not attend the University
LJMU reserves the right to cancel the registration of any student who is not obviously attending the
University – for example if you routinely miss timetabled sessions or assessment deadlines.
The University will contact you via your University email account inviting you to attend meetings
before such action is taken.
That’s why it is vital that you tell the University about any absence as soon as possible if:
• you are ill
• your sickness is long term
• you are involved in an accident
• you experience a bereavement or other serious event, which means that you are unable to
come into the University
If you are absent during critical assessment periods it is imperative that you contact your academic
tutor. It may be possible to extend a coursework deadline or set an alternative assessment.
Click here for details on LJMU’s Personal Circumstance Policy
Remember, if you are an undergraduate and you are not attending the University, LJMU is legally
required to tell the Student Loans Company and in the majority of cases this means that you won’t
receive any student funding (tuition fee and/or maintenance loans).
Additional guidance for international students
If you are absent for any reason you must notify the University as soon as possible. LJMU has
responsibility to report to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) any student who:
• fails to enrol or complete their attendance confirmation
• withdraws from their programme of study
• has significant changes in their circumstances
For more information, please read the International Students Attendance Policy.
Please note: this policy does not cover students with visitor visas.
3.5 Leave of absence
LJMU operates a leave of absence policy, often referred to as periods of suspension, intermission or
intercalation that allows students a temporary and official period of time away from their studies. A
leave of absence from a programme of study may be requested for a variety of reasons, including
medical, financial and personal.

If you are considering making a request for a leave of absence, you are strongly advised to seek
advice and guidance from both your Programme Leader and the Student Advice and Wellbeing
Team.
• email: studentengagement@ljmu.ac.uk
• tel: 0151 231 3664
In certain circumstances academic staff, for example a Programme Leader or a Personal Tutor may
raise the possibility of a leave of absence with a student.
Please note: granting of a leave of absence is not an automatic right and the decision will be made
on an individual basis by the Programme Leader in conjunction with the Faculty Registrar.
Periods of leave of absence are usually only permitted for up to one year. Both the student and the
academic team should agree agreement relating to the period of leave of absence and a suitable
date to resume studies once the decision to agree to a leave of absence request has been made.
Leave of absences are permitted to commence at appropriate stages in the academic calendar. The
date a period of leave of absence will begin can vary and depends upon your individual needs and
programme of study.
Please note: LJMU will look at your overall engagement with the University when determining the
start date of a leave of absence, not just the last date of attendance in a teaching session.
While on leave of absence, you:
• may not participate in any programme-related activities, including assessments
• may access support services offered by Student Advice and Wellbeing Services and IT
Services
• will be contacted one month before you are due to resume studies advising you of
registration requirements.
Please note: For some programmes of study and for some students, additional requirements will
need to be met prior to your return. You will be advised of any additional requirements at the
point when a leave of absence is granted.
Advice for international students
If you are an international students studying on a Tier 4 visa, your leave of absence will be reported
to the UKVI. You are also expected to advise the UKVI that you are returning home. You will have to
apply for a new visa prior to returning to the University to resume your studies.
Please seek further advice and guidance from both your Programme Leader and the Student
Advice and Wellbeing Team.

Chapter 4: Your degree
Your Programme Guide, Module Guides and Canvas provide detailed information on your degree,
your academic team, and other aspects of your academic experience.
If you have any questions about any aspect of studying at LJMU please don't hesitate to contact your
Personal Tutor or other academics on your programme, the Student Advice and Wellbeing Team or
the registryservices@ljmu.ac.uk – they are here to help so please don't be afraid to ask for advice.
4.1 Academic Framework
The Academic Framework is designed to ensure that your programme of study meets the standards
expected by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and other relevant
professional accreditations.
Put simply this means that when you graduate you can be confident that your LJMU award is worth
the same as a similar degree from any other UK university.
Click here for more information on the Academic Framework.
4.2 Academic support
Academic support is provided by personal tutors, supervisors or year tutors, and by the academic
leaders of the particular modules being studied.
Individual support for non-academic matters is provided by staff in registryservices@ljmu.ac.uk and
by the Student Advice and Wellbeing Team.
If your concerns relate to a particular module or area of study then you should contact your module
tutor first as they will be able to guide you to relevant books and journals, and will be able to chat
with you about general issues of concern.
If the issue is broader than just one module, it is worth talking to your Personal Tutor, Year Tutor or
Programme Leader, as they will have a broad overview of your programme. Whether it is an
academic problem or if it is more personal, they will be able to help you and, if necessary, direct you
to relevant support staff in the University.
For more general advice on studying at University visit your university library and speak to one the
skills tutors. For information on the seminars, workshops and drop-ins, and for online resources, visit
https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/microsites/library/skills-ljmu
4.3 Personal Tutors
All students are assigned a Personal Tutor. Your Personal Tutor will be someone who is familiar with
your programme of study and their role is, primarily, to offer support with your academic
development and provide pastoral oversight, signposting the availability of appropriate University
support should issues arise that may impact on your ability to complete your studies successfully.

They may also provide broader support for your personal and professional development in
conjunction with other specialist support services, including:
• Student Advice and Wellbeing
• The Library’s Skills Tutors
• The Careers, Employability and Enterprise Team
• Skills Support Officers
• Liverpool John Moores Students' Union
You will have a scheduled opportunity to meet individually with your Personal Tutor for a progress
review at least twice per year, but you may of course contact them as and when needed.
If you are uncertain who your Personal Tutor is, please refer to your Programme Guide.
4.4 Skills@LJMU
Making the transition to university-level study can be challenging. As well as learning about your
chosen subject, you are expected to develop a wide range of skills, including those of researching,
academic writing and referencing. You may also need to improve your English language levels, your
mathematical skills, your understanding and use of statistics, and your IT skills.
To help you do this, the university library offers a year-round programme of interactive workshops
and seminars where you can learn about, discuss, and practise using the skills you’ll need to do
well in your degree. The libraries also run regular drop-ins and appointments with skills tutors,
where you can get advice and guidance on your academic studies and assessments.
To see the workshop and seminar timetable, or to book an appointment with a tutor, visit
https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/microsites/library/skills-ljmu, where you’ll also find lots of resources to
help guide you through your academic study.
For more information, or to make an enquiry, email skills@ljmu.ac.uk.

4.5 Career Smart: Explore, Experience and Engage
LJMU’s innovative integrated approach to employability has been recognised as an example of
good practice by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA, 2016).
The series of CareerSmart e-learning resources offers you the opportunity to develop your
employability skills in order to succeed in a competitive graduate labour market.
CareerSmart: Explore, which is embedded in the Level 4 curriculum, helps you to understand your
current level of career readiness and explore future career aspirations.
The CareerSmart: Experience and CareerSmart: Engage digital tools are also available to support
your transition into a graduate role by gaining work valuable experience and learning how to
successfully navigate the graduate recruitment process.
For details please see your Programme/Module Handbooks or visit
https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/careers/careersmart
4.6 Work-related learning
Work-related learning is included in every undergraduate degree programme, so whatever you are
studying you will have the opportunity to engage in real world projects and activities or go on work-
based learning placements. In doing so, you will be able to apply and further develop your
knowledge and employability skills. Having experience of the workplace and current issues is
incredibly valuable in developing your career aims and when applying for graduate jobs.
Work-related learning may take different forms, the most common being:
• Work placements
• Internships
• Projects with work-based contacts
• Simulations of workplace activity
• Employer-driven case studies
For details on the range of work-related learning activities associated with your programme, see your
Programme and Module Handbooks.
4.7 Studying abroad
The Erasmus programme is a European Commission initiative designed to promote student mobility
throughout Europe in order to create fully mobile EU citizens, and to provide an experience that will
benefit your personal, academic, and professional development. Erasmus gives you the opportunity
to study in a European university, or participate in a work placement at a European partner (this
could be a business of any size, a charity, or a public body) for a minimum of three and a maximum
of nine months. There are no additional fees to pay. All Erasmus students receive a grant to help
with the costs of their placement of approximately €350 for each month you are away from
Liverpool.

The scheme is open to undergraduates and postgraduates of all disciplines. Non-language students
need not worry about their linguistic ability as we generally only provide placement opportunities
that include English language support. Currently, LJMU has over 50 partnerships within Europe. If
none of these are suitable we will attempt to open a new partnership, with the support of your tutor
and School, in order to find the best opportunity for your academic, professional, and personal
growth.
If you are interested in finding out more please talk to your Personal Tutor during your first year of
study or click here.
4.8 Occupational Health Unit
The Occupational Health unit provides a service to both University staff and Students.
Location and more information regarding Occupational Health services can be found at:
https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/occupational-health
4.9 Fitness health assessments
Fitness health assessments are undertaken for students who are training in specific disciplines.
These can be undertaken before training commences or during training if a problem arises.
The objectives of such assessments are:
• To ensure medical fitness to train in certain subjects
• To identify adjustments which may be needed on medical grounds to help train more
effectively and to protect health
Some assessments are undertaken by questionnaire initially. Students involved in some work
activities or working with some hazards are also invited for a clinic appointment with a nurse or
doctor. Further enquiry from treating doctors is sometimes necessary.
The standards for fitness are often set by statutory regulatory bodies, such as the Nursing Midwifery
Council , or by specific government regulations, such as the COSHH Regulations or by the Department
of Health. Examples of work which may require clinic attendance for assessment include:
• Training in a branch of healthcare with vulnerable patients
• Training in social work or teaching

The outcome of each assessment is notified to the relevant Faculty Subject
Head/Programme Leader. Recommendations will usually be in one of the
following formats:
• Fit for training
• Fit with specific adjustments
• Unfit for the designated training
Medical details are only made available to University staff in so far as it is necessary to enable them
to discharge their management responsibilities, in accordance with data protection regulations.
Why do you need to undergo this fitness assessment?
The standards for fitness to train are set for all Universities by national regulatory organisations. The
main purpose of the occupational health assessments is to protect the safety of patients, pupils or
clients. It is also intended to identify support measures needed for students to train effectively and
safely.
What happens during the fitness assessment?
As part of the fitness health assessment, you may be asked to see an Occupational Health Nurse for
further medical clarification or to receive vaccinations recommended by the Department of Health.
If you have declared a disability or functional impairment which could be relevant to your fitness to
train, the Nurse may ask questions about your normal day-to-day activities.
Information about your medical condition or disability, your general level of functioning and the
national fitness standards will be used to reach a conclusion about your fitness to train and any
support you need.
If there are significant concerns about your fitness to train, you may be referred to our Occupational
Health Physician.
What type of questions are you likely to be asked?
The questioning is intended to ascertain the severity of your disability or medical condition and will
always be appropriate to the medical condition, functional impairment and fitness standards.
If you want further clarification, please raise this with the Occupational Health Nurse during your
assessment. You may be asked about normal day-to-day activities such as mobility, manual dexterity,
hearing, eyesight, reading and writing, relevant to your fitness to train. You may be asked about the
impact of your disability or medical condition on your ability to function every day.
Further information is available from the Equality and Human Rights website.
What are the likely outcomes of the assessment?

There are very few cases of students who are unable to continue on their programme of study due
to the fitness to practise regulations. However, there will be some cases where students do not
meet the mandatory fitness standards.
Dyslexia and specific learning difficulties
Due to differing definitions used, Occupational Health staff may recommend that you are fit to train,
without any adjustments to your training course, even if you have a mild impairment of function, as
long as the safety of patients, pupils or clients is assured. The recommendation from the
Occupational Health Unit does not affect eligibility for support through Student Advice and Wellbeing
or through the Disabled Students Allowance.
Further support and advice
The Student Advice and Wellbeing Team provide professional advice and support to those students
who need support with study and training. This is a separate role from the professional services
provided by the Occupational Health Unit and is not intended to assess your fitness to train.
4.10 Fitness to practise
For some professional courses, LJMU is required to confirm that applicants and students are fit to
practise.
This means that LJMU is required to monitor the health and conduct of students on programmes
leading to professional qualifications to assess their ability or suitability for the programme or
associated placements. This is entirely separate from any academic judgement issues that the
University is required to make.
The University has a Fitness to Practise Policy and where appropriate operates Faculty-specific
Fitness to Practise Panels that include external representatives from the relevant professional
practise area.
Students who are assessed as not fit to practise in some capacity may be able to complete a non-
professional academic programme at LJMU.
For further details visit www.ljmu.ac.uk/about-us/public-information/student-
regulations/guidance-policy-and-process
4.11 Fitness to study
LJMU takes the health, safety and wellbeing of all students seriously and seeks to provide an
environment that is safe and conducive to study.
LJMU recognises that sometimes serious personal circumstances such as physical and/or mental
health issues, may affect your ability to maintain your studies.

The University has a duty of care to respond appropriately to situations where concerns are raised
about a student and it is obliged to take action if a student’s circumstances, conduct or behaviour
presents a risk (to themselves or to others), or where such behaviour results in unreasonable
demands being placed on staff, students or others.
The Fitness to Study Policy is intended for use where the circumstances, behaviour, disruption or risk
presented by a student is perceived to be serious or potentially serious.
Under the Fitness to Study procedures the University may temporarily suspend the studies and/or
placement of a student. In some circumstances, LJMU may refer you to the Occupational Health
Physician for assessment.
For further details go to: www.ljmu.ac.uk/about-us/public-information/student-
regulations/guidance-policy-and-process
Help and support is available from the Student Advice and Wellbeing Team
Independent advice and guidance on this and other issues can be obtained by contacting John Moores
Students’ Union: www.jmsu.co.uk
4.12 Final degree awards
Under LJMU’s Academic Framework, you need to achieve 120 credits at each level in order to get a
degree.
Whether you get a First, 2:1, 2:2 or a Third will be calculated by counting your overall Level 5 mark as
25% of your final award mark, with the remaining 75% coming from your Level 6 marks.
Award marks determine what degree you’ll get, as detailed here:
• First – overall mark of 70% or above
• 2:1 – overall mark between 60 and 69%
• 2:2 – overall mark between 50 and 59%
• 3rd – overall mark between 40 and 49%
All students have the right to appeal against the decisions of the Board of Examiners, which confirms
assessment results (marks, grades) and makes final awards. Formal assessment may be in the form
of examinations, coursework, placements, presentations etc.
For further details visit the Student Governance webpages or go to: www.ljmu.ac.uk/about-
us/public-information/student-regulations/guidance-policy-and-process
4.13 Freedom of speech
As an academic institution, LJMU is committed to freedom of enquiry, to the rational resolution of
disagreements and to maintaining the University as a place where opinions can be debated without
the threat of violence and intimidation.

However, it should be recognised that not all speech is protected by this commitment. Any form of
threat, intimidation, abuse, coercion, incitement to violence, racial hatred or similar acts by students
or staff constitutes a disciplinary offence.
For further details visit the Wider Information Set page on the external website and read the External
Speakers (freedom of speech) policy.
4.14 Intellectual property
LJMU has a policy dealing with the Intellectual Property and the Copyrighting or Patenting of the
work or ideas of students. If you are considering the commercial exploitation of such work or ideas
please refer to this policy, which is available on the University website.
If you have any queries, please contact the Business Development Centre:
• tel: 0500 876 543
• email: bdc@ljmu.ac.uk
4.15 Student complaints
If you are not satisfied with the level of service provided by LJMU or if you have some other cause
for complaint, then the matter should be raised in the first instance with the person responsible for
that service or department. You can do this either in person or in writing, but you should do this
within 30 days of the incident, matter or concern.
If you believe that you have not had a satisfactory response or you feel that the matter is still
unresolved, then you may wish to use the formal Student Complaints Procedure.
Formal Student Complaints can be submitted online at My LJMU using the My Services app.
If you proceed with a formal complaint, you will be asked to provide full details of the complaint
including what steps you have taken to resolve the matter, relevant supporting information plus an
outline of what you would regard as a satisfactory outcome.
The complaint will then be considered under the Student Complaints Procedure.
Appeals against marks/grades or final awards are not dealt with through the Student Complaints
Procedure. In these cases you should refer to the Academic Appeals Procedures.
All formal complaints should normally be made within three calendar months of the alleged
incident, matter or concern.
Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education (OIA)
Under the Higher Education Act 2004, the University subscribes to the independent scheme for the
review of student complaints. If you are dissatisfied with the outcome of your complaint or appeal,
you may be able to apply for a review of your appeal to the Office of the Independent Adjudicator
for Higher Education (OIA) providing that the complaint you take to the OIA is eligible under its
Rules.

If you decide to make a complaint to the OIA, your OIA Complaint Form must be received by the OIA
within one year of the date of the Completion of Procedures letter. Further information is
available on the OIA website.
Please note: OIA will only consider complaints after you have completed the University Student
Complaints Procedure.
For further information on the Student Complaints Procedure:
• visit:https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/students/supporting-your-study/student-policy-and-regulations
• email: StudentGovernance@ljmu.ac.uk
Independent advice and guidance on all student related processes can be obtained by contacting the
John Moores Students’ Union: www.jmsu.co.uk
4.16 Social media
We want your LJMU experience to be as enjoyable as possible so take a moment to consider your
use of social media:
• Your privacy settings
• What you share and how it might reflect on you or the University, especially with respect to
flatmates, fellow students and University staff
How you present yourself online may be noticed by potential employers in the future, and for
courses leading to professional qualifications, students are required to adhere to standards and
Codes of Conduct defined by Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies (PSRB), so check if these
apply to you – if you’re not sure, your tutors will be able to give you information.
You can also connect with LJMU via our social channels to keep up-to-date, get quick answers to
queries and enhance your learning. Further information is available on the Before You Arrive website.
LJMU provides guidelines on using social media and follows strict procedures regarding behavioural
standards.
To read the University’s Student Social Media Policy , visit: www.ljmu.ac.uk/about- us/public-
information/student-regulations/guidance-policy-and-process
If you need practical support and advice on personal issues arising from social media, contact
Student Advice and Wellbeing.

Chapter 5: Examinations, assessment and feedback
The purpose of assessment is to enable you to demonstrate that you have fulfilled the objectives of
your programme of study, and achieved the standard required for your named award. LJMU's
programmes of study are subject to specific regulations, which set out what is expected of both
examiners and students. Their aim is to establish a fair framework for all assessment activities.
Your tutors will explain the assessment strategy for your programme, pointing out the balance
between coursework and examinations, and the purpose of the various assessment tasks you will be
expected to complete. Formal assessment may take the form of examinations, coursework,
placements, presentations, etc.
Please see your Programme and Module Handbooks for more details.
5.1 Examinations
The University holds examinations in a number of venues including some non-University buildings.
The examination timetable is published online on My LJMU
It is your responsibility to:
• check the final timetable to ensure that you have the correct details of your
examination(s). Do not rely on friends to pass on the information.
• present yourself for assessment at the correct time and venue.
While every effort is made to avoid scheduling more than one exam per day per student, this is not
always possible and you may have more than one exam per day, up to a maximum of six hours of
assessment per day.
You must bring your University Student ID Card with you to all your exams. You will be required to
insert the 6 digit person number (sometimes referred to as a registration number) shown on your
card on all examination attendance slips and answer books. We will also use your student card to
monitor your attendance at exams electronically.
There are strict rules about your behaviour in examinations:
• You are not permitted to have any unauthorised materials in the examination venue
• You are not allowed to disrupt the examination. You must comply with the instructions of
the invigilators. Failure to do so will result in suspension from the University pending further
investigation and sanctions may include expulsion from the University
• You are NOT permitted to have mobile phones, tablets or other mobile/electronic devices
on or near your desks in an examination
• You must remain in the examination room for the full duration of an examination
Cheating in examinations constitutes a serious offence and penalties range from the reduction of
marks to expulsion from the University. Further information on Academic Misconduct is available
in section 5.9 or the Registry Services webpages

5.2 Marks and feedback
LJMU knows that marks are a crucial part of any feedback you get on assessments that count
towards your final module mark and we want you to be confident that all work is marked fairly,
without bias.
That’s why we use a combination of marking and moderation procedures such as unsighted marking,
second marking and external examiners to ensure that the marks you get are fair, and in keeping
with agreed standards.
The important process of moderating marks won’t be completed until the end of your module. This
means that any initial marks you get for your summative assessments may change following the
moderation of marks ahead of the Board of Examiners meeting.
With the exception of examinations or lengthy submissions such as dissertations, you can expect to
receive feedback no later than 15 working days after your assessment submission deadline. Please
check your module handbooks or Key Module Information Area on Canvas, or talk to your Module
Leader for more details on the range of feedback you can expect and when.
Every assessment you submit is marked against a defined set of criteria, which are published in
advance of your submission deadline, usually in your module handbooks or on the Canvas module
site. The feedback you receive will be based around how well you have met this set of criteria.
It’s important that you know as early as possible if your work is up to the standard expected for your
particular level of study. That’s why you can expect to receive face-to-face feedback on your first
piece of assessed work.
This could be delivered in a group setting as well as in one-to-one meetings. Your Programme and
Handbooks will give you more information on this early feedback opportunity.
You are also entitled to receive regular information concerning your academic performance. This is
generally provided through both informal and formal feedback from your tutors during the course of
the academic year and you should be told when this is to be given.
If you have any queries about assessments and feedback, please talk to your Module or Personal
Tutors.
5.3 Personal circumstances
If you are experiencing difficult personal circumstances you should in the first instance contact your
Module or Programme Leader. Generally, tutors will try to deal with personal difficulties by granting
individual extensions to coursework deadlines or by setting alternative assessments.
The personal circumstances procedures only apply when something serious and unexpected
happens, for example:
• If you are taken ill just before or during an exam
• If you are involved in an accident or serious incident that prevents you attending the
University just before an exam or assignment deadline

• If you experience a bereavement or family illness that prevents you attending the University
just before an exam or assignment deadline
Personal Circumstances and Special Mitigation procedures are not intended to deal with issues of
long-term illness or disability; the University offers specialised support for students in these
circumstances. That’s why you are advised to contact the Student Advice and Wellbeing team, your
Programme or Module Leaders or Personal Tutor well in advance of any deadlines so that the
University can put appropriate support strategies in place for you.
You also won’t be able to apply for personal circumstances or special mitigation, if you:
• Sleep in and miss your exam
• Turn up at the wrong time or venue for an exam
• Miss a submission deadline because you didn’t manage your study time properly
• Have a cold or other minor illness
Please note that if you start a time-limited summative assessment task such as an exam or
presentation, or submit a piece of coursework, you declare yourself ‘fit to attempt’ that assessment
task and claims for personal circumstances are not permitted of that assessment task. However, if
your performance in an assessment task, such as an exam, was adversely and seriously affected by
circumstances that occurred during the assessment to such an extent that the assessment item could
not be completed you may submit a claim for ‘special mitigation’.
If you are lodging an personal circumstances or special mitigation claim, you will need to present
evidence supporting your application. Depending on your particular circumstances, examples of
evidence could include:
• a medical certificate
• a death certificate
• a police crime reference number or other independent verification of an incident
You will need to submit your application and supporting evidence within five days of the exam or
deadline you have missed. If you are unable to make an application within the five working days, you
can submit a Late Application.
However, you must provide an explanation and evidence to support your reasons why you could not
submit the application within the deadline; for example, you may have been in hospital
unexpectedly during this period.
A Faculty Approval Panel will consider your reason for late submission in the first instance. No
applications will be considered after the Panel has met. Faculties will notify the dates of the
Panels to all students.

If your application for personal circumstances is valid, as determined by the Panel, the Board of
Examiners will defer your assessment to the next appropriate opportunity, regardless of the
module mark you obtained.
If your application for special mitigation is valid, as determined by the
Panel, the assessment item is either:
Declared null and void and deferred to the next appropriate opportunity or the module leader will
assign a mark for the assessment item where there is sufficient evidence to do so and where this is
approved by the Chair of the Board of Examiners.
Further information about the Personal Circumstances and special mitigation procedure is available from:
• Academic Registry
• Advisers in any of the University Libraries
You can also email stayoncourse@ljmu.ac.uk or call 0151 231 3162 to chat to the Student Advice and
Wellbeing Team.
The John Moores Students Union www.jmsu.co.uk can also give you additional advice and guidance on the Personal
Circumstances procedure.
5.4 Referrals and exceptional second referrals
A referral is the opportunity to re-take assessment in a module in which you achieved under the pass
mark, usually 40%, for modules at levels 3-6 and 50% for level 7 modules. You only get one referral
opportunity in each module. If you fail to gain the credits for a module at the second attempt, you
may be eligible for an exceptional second referral (ESR) for up to 24 credits at any level, provided that
96 credits at that level have been achieved.
If after referrals you do not have 96 credits you may not be able to progress on your target award.
You will be counselled by the Programme Leader or nominated deputy, as to the options available to
you. This may include an opportunity to re-register for a Final Module Attempt (FMA) at a module or
modules.
If you attain between 60 and 96 credits within a Level you will be offered an opportunity to re-
register for a Final Module Attempt at the failed modules. If you attain fewer than 60 credits within a
Level, you may be offered an opportunity to re-register for a Final Module Attempt at the failed
modules, provided the Board of Examiners has reason to be confident of your engagement with the
modules. The FMA requires attendance and no marks will be carried forward from previous
attempts. The maximum mark obtainable from a FMA is the minimum module pass mark. There is
no opportunity for a referral with a FMA. You are not permitted to use FMAs at more than one Level.

For most full-time undergraduate programmes referrals take place in July (or applicable specified
month). A Referral Assessment Board takes place in July (or applicable specified month) where your
progress is considered again:
• If after referrals you have 120 credits you will be allowed to progress to the next level
• If you do not have 120 credits but have 96 credits you may be eligible for an Exceptional
Second Referral which would allow you to progress with 24 credits outstanding and to
attempt the assessment for a third and last time
• If you have between 60 and 95 credits you will be offered the opportunity to re-register on
failed modules for a third and final time
• If you have between 0 and 59 credits you may be offered the opportunity to re-register on
failed modules for a third and final time or the Board of Examiners will consider whether
there is an alternative award that you could attempt or if you should be asked to leave the
University.
In the case of a referral, an ESR or FMA you will be awarded 40%, or the minimum pass mark, as the
maximum mark. Some modules may not be eligible for exceptional second referrals. These are
usually modules related to professional competency requirements.
5.5 Deferrals (Delaying an assessment as a result of difficult personal circumstances)
Generally, tutors will try to deal with personal difficulties by granting individual extensions to
coursework deadlines or by setting alternative assessments. Where this is not possible you may be
able to defer your assessment.
If you are experiencing ongoing difficulties that are affecting your studies you are strongly advised to
contact Student Advice and Wellbeing who can advise of support and on any financial implications of
a decision to defer assessment or to take leave of absence from your studies.
If your assessment is affected by a severe, acute and unexpected event that prevents you from
attending an exam or other assessment event, or severely impacts on your ability in the assessment,
then you may be able to submit a ‘special mitigation’ or ‘personal circumstances’ claim.
Please note that if you start a time-limited summative assessment task such as an exam or
presentation, you declare yourself ‘fit to attempt’ that assessment task and claims for personal
circumstances are not permitted of that assessment task. However, if your performance in an
assessment task, such as an exam, was adversely and seriously affected by circumstances that
occurred during the assessment to such an extent that the assessment item could not be completed
you may submit a claim for ‘special mitigation’.
You will need to provide evidence to support your application for special mitigation or personal
circumstances.
Click here for details on LJMU’s Personal Circumstances Procedure

5.6 Boards of Examiners
The Boards of Examiners for all taught academic programmes meet after the exams and coursework
submission deadlines, and again later in the academic year for students retaking exams or
resubmitting coursework. The Board of Examiners will consist of:
• Director of School or appropriate nominee
• Programme Leaders
• Module leaders and other teaching staff
• External Examiners
Your results will be published on your online progress report accessible via Canvas.
5.7 Assessment regulations
The majority of University programmes fall within the University’s Academic Framework and are
covered by LJMU’s Assessment Regulations. The University assumes that you will consult the
relevant set of regulations before undertaking your first assessment.
LJMU’s Assessment Regulations are integral to the Academic Framework and cover issues including:
• The role and responsibilities of Boards of Examiners, including mitigation, illness, absence
from examinations
• Personal circumstances and special mitigation
• The possible grounds for appeal against the outcome of assessment
• Progression, level completion and referral
• Academic Misconduct (cheating, collusion, plagiarism, etc)
• Marking and moderation
• Granting of awards and the classification for degrees with Honours
Click here to find out more about the University’s Assessment Regulations within the undergraduate
or postgraduate regulations links.
For programmes of study that lie outside the Academic Framework, the relevant Assessment
Regulations will be set out in your programme documentation.
5.8 Academic appeals
All students have the right to appeal against the decisions of a Board of Examiners, which confirms
assessment results (marks, grades) and makes final awards. Formal assessment may be in the form
of examinations, coursework, placements, presentations etc.
The Appeals Form is available at MyLJMU at https://myservices.ljmu.ac.uk/
The Appeals Guidance notes are available here: https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/about-us/public-
information/student-regulations/appeals-and-complaints

The grounds for appeal are strictly limited. You cannot submit an Academic Appeal just because
you don’t agree with the mark you have been awarded.
You must meet the criteria as outlined in the Section C9 of the Undergraduate or Postgraduate
Regulations.
There are also strict time limits for lodging an Academic Appeal: normally within 10 working days of
the release of results. Again, see section C9 for further details.
If you are dissatisfied with the way LJMU has dealt with your appeal then you have the right to ask
the Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA) to look at the case. Please be aware that the OIA will
only consider your appeal after you have completed the University Academic Appeals Procedure.
Independent advice and guidance on this and other issues is available from the John Moores Students Union:
www.jmsu.co.uk
5.9 Academic misconduct
Academic Misconduct is deemed to cover all deliberate attempt(s) to gain an unfair advantage in
assessments. This includes cheating, plagiarism, unauthorised collusion or any other deliberate
attempt to gain an unfair advantage in summatively assessed work.
Assessment includes all forms of written work (including in-class tests), e-assessments,
presentations, demonstrations, viva voces, recognition of prior learning portfolios and all forms
of examination.
Where there is evidence of Academic Misconduct, the University will take appropriate action. This
action could range from the loss of marks in the relevant module with no opportunity to retake the
assessment or the failure of a set of modules. In some cases module marks are reduced to zero
making it impossible for you to achieve your target award.
The penalty you incur will depend on a number of factors including:
• Your level of study
• The extent and seriousness of your academic misconduct
• Whether you have previously had a case of academic misconduct proven against you
Each year the University expels a number of students because of Academic Misconduct. Any proven
cases of academic misconduct will remain on your student record and may be noted in any future
requests for references. The University will also, where appropriate, inform relevant professional
bodies. The consequences of Academic Misconduct can extend beyond the University and may
severely impact upon your chosen profession.
If you are accused of Academic Misconduct you will be sent details of the allegation plus supporting evidence and
asked to attend an Academic Misconduct Panel. John Moores Students Union: www.jmsu.co.uk can give you
impartial advice on what to expect.

During the Academic Misconduct Panel hearing (AMP), a member of staff known as the Presenting
Officer will present the case for Academic Misconduct. This member of staff is not part of the
deliberating panel; their role is only to present evidence relating to the allegation. During the
hearing you will have an opportunity to present your defence and challenge the evidence presented.
You can bring a friend or John Moores Students’ Union representative with you; they can ask questions on your
behalf
for clarification but they can’t answer for you. The Panel will then decide if the allegation is proven
or not proven. In proven cases a penalty will be applied.
Penalties range from receiving a mark of 0 for an assessment component to a recommendation of
expulsion from the University.
Students have the right to appeal against the decision of an Academic Misconduct Panel. The
grounds for appeal are strictly limited. You cannot submit an Appeal just because you don't agree
with the decision. You must meet the criteria as outlined in Section C9 of the Undergraduate or
Postgraduate Regulations. There are also strict time limits for lodging an Appeal: normally within 10
working days of the written notification of the outcome of the Panel.
The Appeals Form is available online at MyLJMU or https://myservices.ljmu.ac.uk/
The Appeals Guidance notes are available here: https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/about-us/public- information/student-
regulations/appeals-and-complaints

Chapter 6: Student support and advice
A wide range of advice and support services are available at LJMU, ranging from advice on
accommodation to money management and careers guidance.
We also offer support and guidance to international students, including information regarding
student visas.
So don't be afraid to approach LJMU if you need advice. Everyone from your Personal Tutor to the
University's dedicated Student Advice and Wellbeing team are on hand to help.
6.1 Registry Services
LJMU is committed to providing first-class support to students and to responding to student feedback.
We now offer most of our services as an online service via the My LJMU portal https://my.ljmu.ac.uk
meaning that you don’t have to make a special trip into University to complete essential administrative
processes; you can do most things online. If you have a piece of coursework to submit or have an
assessment query, you can call into your School/Faculty Office.
Support is available by calling 0151 231 3289 or emailing Registryservices@ljmu.ac.uk where staff will
be able to advise you on the following:
• student registration and enrolment
• module registration
• change of circumstances i.e. Leave of Absence or Withdrawal
• tuition fees and fee payment
• student bursaries
• extenuating circumstance claims
• council tax
• standard letters (for opening bank accounts, gym membership or visas if you are an
international student)
• your student record and amending personal data
• examinations
• graduation, certificates and awards
For more information, log on to the Registry Services web pages
6.2 Student Advice and Wellbeing
Our Student Advice and Wellbeing team can give you advice and guidance on everything from
accommodation to money management and support for disabled students. The University can also
advise you about your eligibility for student funding, such as grants, loans and benefits.

If you would like any guidance or advice, please contact Student Advice and Wellbeing on:
• tel: 0151 231 3153 / 3154
Our International Student Advisers are experienced in dealing with issues that international
students may face when moving to a new country, such as English language support, visa renewal,
accommodation, financial concerns and setting up a new home. To contact an International Student
Adviser, please email: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk
Support for disabilities, long-term medical conditions and specific learning difficulties is available
through the Student Advice and Wellbeing team. Please contact the Disability team for further
information (disability@ljmu.ac.uk).
Further information is also available by:
• logging onto: https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/discover/student-support/students-with-a-disability
• reading the Disability policy on the Equality and Diversity page of the University’s external
website: https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/about-us/public-information/equality-and-diversity
6.3 Counselling service
If you are experiencing emotional or psychological difficulties and feel you would benefit from
talking to someone, LJMU’s counselling team offers free, confidential, one-to-one and group
sessions.
For further information,
• log on to https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/discover/student-support/health-and-wellbeing
• email: counselling@ljmu.ac.uk
6.4 Mental health support
Support is available for students with a range of mental health issues.
If you have any concerns relating to yourself or another student, please contact the Mental Wellbeing
Adviser:
• email: mentalwellbeing@ljmu.ac.uk
• tel: 0151 231 3579
6.5 Spiritual support
LJMU’s Spiritual Support team offers confidential, non-judgmental pastoral care and support to
students and staff of all beliefs and backgrounds.
For more information, read the Spirituality pages.

6.6 Quiet spaces
The University has facilities for quiet meditation, prayer and contemplation in each of its three
campuses: City, Mount Pleasant and IM Marsh.
• The quiet spaces in Mount Pleasant, the Henry Cotton Building and IM Marsh are designed
to be multi-faith.
• Henry Cotton also offers an additional room for Muslim prayers
For more information, please contact the Student Advice Team.
6.7 Careers, Employability and Enterprise support
The Careers Team provides tailored careers support to all LJMU students during their studies
through delivery of careers education, information, advice and guidance from our three campus-
based Careers Zones.
The Team also manages LJMU’s CareerSmart programme, holds regular careers and employability
workshops and webinars, manages LJMU’s Career Accelerator Internship programme, organises
industry careers presentations, employer days and careers fairs both inside and outside of the
curriculum. The Careers, Employability and Enterprise Team also produces Career Planning Guides
for each academic School, which are complemented by Careers Mini-Guides and subject-specific
Career Insights.
Careers Zones
The Careers Zones (based at Aldham Robarts Library, Byrom Street and IM Marsh Library) offer
career support including:
• careers guidance interviews
• CV and application form reviews
• help with postgraduate applications
• interview practice sessions via one-to-one appointments with our Careers and
Employability Advisers.
Regular visits from local and national organisations also take place throughout the year in the Zones,
where students can meet and talk to them about job, placement and other opportunities. Visitors
recently included Liverpool Universities Officer Training Corps, Civil Service Fast Stream, Careers in
Teaching, Hire STEM Women, Smaller Earth, Brook, Barclays Digital Eagles, Enterprise Rent-a-Car,
NCS Challenge, All Wales Public Service Graduate Programme, Camp Counsellors USA, Merseyside
Fire & Rescue Service, Liverpool FC Foundation, The Right Legal Group, VMM International, Catch 22,
Chatteris Education Foundation, Shropshire Wildlife Trust, Everton in the Community, Decathlon,
Reed, Digital Service Cover, Hays Recruitment, Anthony Nolan/Marrow, QVC, Reed Scientific, Camp
America and HMRC.

CareerSmart: Explore, Experience and Engage
Competition for professional jobs is tough but we are confident that our enhanced career development
and employability programme will enable you to compete against the best candidates and win.
The ‘CareerSmart: Explore e-learning tool will introduce you to the steps involved in making informed
choices about your career. It enables you to consider your strengths and development areas,
career motivators, the options available to you and the necessary steps to take to achieve your career
goals.
You will then have the opportunity to complete the next stage of the programme.
‘CareerSmart: Experience’. Here, you will learn about the value of work-related learning
by finding out about the range of opportunities available, eg Work Based Learning, part time work,
internships, volunteering, work shadowing and international opportunities.
You will also learn about the benefits of these experiences including skill development,
networking and sector insight. This stage also includes resources on how to find work experience
and making the most of the opportunity.
The third stage of the programme, ‘CareerSmart: Engage’ is employer informed and you will
find out what graduate recruiters are looking for in successful candidates. The resource will steer
you through each stage of the graduate recruitment process, including the job search, application
process, selection methods – interviews, psychometric tests, assessment centres.
To find out more about the CareerSmart resources, visit:
https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/careers/careersmart
Career Zones 24/7 – Online careers tools
A range of digital careers tools are available via the Careers website to enable you to work on vitally
important employability and transition skills at your own pace, in your own time, both on or off
campus. Tools include CV Builder, interview simulator, careers newsroom, psychometric testing, an
assessment centre testing portal and job search websites.
Careers and employability workshops, webinars and employer events
LJMU’s Careers, Employability and Enterprise Team run a range of free workshops and webinars
throughout the year delivered by our expert trainers that will help you write winning CVs and
application forms, perform well in interviews, tackle graduate assessment centres, use LinkedIn
effectively and much more.
These sessions are open to all students, undergraduate and postgraduate, on all programmes and at
all levels of study.
Webinars are online classes which you can access from a device with an internet connection. The
webinars are especially useful for any students who have issues getting onto campus.

The Team also offer programme-specific employer events and talks allowing students to hear about
career options directly from people doing the jobs. To find out more or book a place, visit the
Careers events system.
Searching for graduate jobs, placements, internships, voluntary work and part time jobs
Search for graduate jobs, internships, placements, part-time jobs and voluntary roles via the job
search facility in Careers Zone 24/7, where you will also find links to other websites where you can
look for jobs related to your degree. Job opportunities are also advertised on jobs boards in the
Careers Zones and via our Twitter feed (@LJMUCareers). LJMU-funded internships are also advertised
via the job search facility in the Careers Zone 24/7 portal
Careers information and resources
LJMU offers a wide range of resources to help students plan their career, while they are at university
and after they graduate. Each year, working alongside academic colleagues, the careers team
produces school-specific Career Planning Guides, which give information about career options
related to your degree as well as a range of articles about careers topics including CVs, applications
forms, interviews, finding graduate level jobs and more.
We also offer programme-specific Career Insights and generic Career Mini Guides on a range of
employability topics. Pick up copies of these guides from your nearest Careers Zone or download
them from the resources page of the Careers website.
Contact us:
For more information about Careers support at LJMU call into your nearest Careers Zone or:
• tel: 0151 231 3719/2048
• email: careers@ljmu.ac.uk
web: www.ljmu.ac.uk/careers
Follow us on social media:
• Instagram; @LJMUCareers
• Twitter:@LJMUCareers
• Facebook: LJMU Careers Team
The Centre for Entrepreneurship
The award winning Centre for Entrepreneurship are also within your Careers, Employability and Enterprise Team and
support LJMU students and alumni up to 5 years after they graduate to develop new business start ups and take on
self-employment.

Training and events sessions run throughout the year:
• #IdeaLab - a 2 week leadership and tech start up summer school
• International Entrepreneurs monthly group
• Pitch Club - helps boost your confidence to pitch and present
• Start-Up meet up – allows you to figure out if you even have an idea
• Start- Up School – a 4 day training programme to give the basic skills to get going
• Try it Out workshop - a chance to test out your idea
Bathgate Try It Out Fund
For students with a genuine idea for a start up business or freelance side hustle. This up to £250 fund
will enable you to robustly test out your idea with your target customer group and evaluate the process.
We suggest you attend a Try It Out workshop before applying so we can support you know if you are ready to take
this next step.
Bathgate Start-Up Fund
Funding of up to £2000 is available for students or graduates who can demonstrate a business idea
based in the Merseyside area that has already been tested and/or is already trading. To be eligible
for this fund you will need to have been working with the team to test how robust the idea is linked
to financial forecasting and evidence of routes to market.
Details of all our programmes can be found www.ljmu.ac.uk/startup
Contact us
For all enquiries please email startup@ljmu.ac.uk
Our team are based in the Aldham Robarts Library and can be contacted Monday to Friday during office hours on
0151 231 3300
Follow us on social media
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/LJMUstartup/
Found.Me Join us in our growing community of entrepreneurs in the Liverpool City Region
https://app.foundme.co/lanes/ljmucfore
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/_ljmu_enterprise
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8553484/
Twitter https://twitter.com/LJMU_Enterprise

6.8 Computing facilities
LJMU offers you access to the full range of computing services in our Libraries and campus-based
Student IT Zones, including free software and access to both desktop and loan laptop computers for
use on campus.
Full terms and conditions of computer use are available on the IT Services website. For the latest
news, information and announcements on the computing services at LJMU, visit the IT Help pages
6.9 Your LJMU username and password
Your LJMU computer account is kept secure via a unique username and password. Your password
should be kept private and secure - don’t use obvious things like your telephone number, postcode
etc., but do make it memorable.
For security reasons, your password automatically expires after a predetermined time. You will be
warned of this beforehand, and have the opportunity to change it.
You can change or reset your password on campus via any of the networked PCs or off campus
via the Forgotten Password/Activate Account link on My Account
NB: You will need your student card to reset your password.
It is a disciplinary offence to use another person’s computing account and you should NEVER tell
anyone your password.
Please note:
• LJMU will NEVER ask you to send your username, password or other personal information
via email.
• If you receive an email that claims to be from us asking for these details DO NOT
RESPOND.
• Please report the email to registryservices@ljmu.ac.uk
If you are off campus, you can activate your account via the web. Go to My Account and click on
the Forgotten Password/Activate Account link. Follow the on-screen instructions to guide you
through the process.
You are responsible for the security of your username and password. Under NO circumstances
should you divulge your password to another user. If you do, or leave a PC logged in and
unattended, you risk having your account misused and could face sanctions from the University. It is
your responsibility to ensure the security of your account.
Please note: Your LJMU computer account will expire shortly after your course end date and you will
not be able to access your account after this date.

6.10 Proper use of computing resources
All students are expected to use LJMU’s computing resources for the educational purposes for which
they were intended. Where abuse is suspected, the University in accordance with the Regulation of
Investigatory Powers Act 2000, has the power to require any computer usage to be monitored,
including access to email and files that are stored on the University’s computer network. Disciplinary
action will be taken when necessary, including the removal of user privileges.
You are reminded that activities, such as sending abusive emails, downloading or distributing
offensive material from the internet, attempted hacking, using another user’s computing resources,
etc. are unacceptable.
You are advised to read the Student Social Media Policy and IT Services Conditions of Use.
6.11 Fire safety
At various times throughout the year evacuation procedures for University buildings will be tested
by means of full fire evacuation drills. These drills are for your benefit and help ensure that
students, staff and visitors know how to get out of a building should a real emergency occur.
You are asked to co-operate with these drills and to ensure that you leave the building in an orderly
manner when the alarm sounds. If you refuse to evacuate a building, you may face disciplinary action
by the University.
All fire alarms, including those in student accommodation, are only for use in an emergency. If you
set off a fire alarm maliciously or interfere with any fire safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers,
you could be expelled from LJMU. You could also face prosecution by Merseyside Fire and Rescue
Service.
If your behaviour threatens the health, safety or welfare of other persons, disciplinary action will be
taken which could result in your expulsion from the University. In addition you may face action by
Merseyside Police. This includes behaviour ‘out of hours’ and away from University premises.
6.12 Health and safety responsibilities
As a student you are required to:
• follow the Health and Safety Policy, Codes of Practice and programme specific procedures
detailed in your programme and/or module handbooks
• attend health and safety inductions
• comply with health and safety requirements and control measures
• take reasonable care in all activities and seek assistance from supervising staff if in doubt
• familiarise yourself with emergency and evacuation procedures and safe escape routes
• report unsafe conditions or equipment to supervising staff
• report accidents and ill-health, related to your studies
• note the location of First Aiders; these are displayed in buildings and on the Safety, Health and Environment
website
• follow procedures outlined in information, instruction or training received

6.13 Security on campus
LJMU operates a 24-hour uniformed security service across all campus sites. If you see or hear
anything suspicious or are concerned about your own personal safety while in or around a University
building then telephone the University Emergency Line on 2222 from any University phone or 0151
231 2222 from outside the University. A Security Officer will be dispatched immediately to
investigate the situation or provide assistance as necessary.
University Police Officer
The University has a full-time Police Officer, seconded from Merseyside Police. The University Police
Officer (UPO) can provide advice and support on a range of student related issues. If you wish to
have a confidential discussion with the UPO, then please contact the Student Governance team by
emailing: StudentGovernance@ljmu.ac.uk
6.14 Alcohol, drugs and smoking
Alcohol consumption on campus
LJMU has a strict policy on the consumption of alcohol and you are not permitted to consume
alcohol on University premises.
Drugs (including controlled and prescribed drugs and new psychoactive drugs or "legal highs")
The use of drugs (including controlled and prescribed drugs and new psychoactive drugs or "legal
highs") and their effects are taken seriously by the University. Students are expected to report any
incidents of drug misuse.
In the first instance, the University will seek to offer help and support to those experiencing
difficulties with drugs. However, if any cases of drug misuse directly affect the wellbeing of any other
member of the LJMU community, then the University reserves the right to employ sanctions against
the person misusing drugs.
Merseyside Police will be informed if anyone is found to be using or distributing illegal drugs on
campus.
Smoking and vaping
Smoking in University buildings and LJMU vehicles is a criminal offence. Smoking on University
grounds in places other than designated areas is a disciplinary matter. The use of electronic
cigarettes and vapourisers is prohibited in University buildings and vehicles.
For more details read the following policies.
Chapter 7: Libraries
LJMU's Libraries provide access to all the learning resources and services you'll need to succeed in
your studies or complete your research.

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