Undergraduate Programmes Student Handbook 2020-2021 - School of Mathematics and Actuarial Science
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School of Mathematics and Actuarial Science Undergraduate Programmes Student Handbook 2020-2021
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 2 Table of Contents Welcome from the Head of School ............................................................................................................................5 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................6 Ignite – our approach to blended learning .................................................................................................................6 How it works ...........................................................................................................................................................6 Our blended learning approach..............................................................................................................................7 Induction .....................................................................................................................................................................8 Your first week ........................................................................................................................................................8 For International Students......................................................................................................................................8 School Details .............................................................................................................................................................8 School Communications .........................................................................................................................................9 Staff List and Key Contacts .....................................................................................................................................9 Student Communications and Personal Details ...................................................................................................10 School Facilities ....................................................................................................................................................10 Learning Support ......................................................................................................................................................11 University Library..................................................................................................................................................11 IT Services .............................................................................................................................................................11 Student Learning Development............................................................................................................................12 Learn a Language Online or On-Campus with Languages at Leicester ................................................................12 Mathematics Support Wiki ...................................................................................................................................12 Your Students’ Union................................................................................................................................................12 Support .................................................................................................................................................................13 Voice .....................................................................................................................................................................13 Opportunities........................................................................................................................................................14 Get in touch ..........................................................................................................................................................15 Students’ Union response to COVID-19 ...............................................................................................................15 University Regulations ..............................................................................................................................................15 Student Responsibilities and Conduct ..................................................................................................................15 Attendance and Engagement Requirements .......................................................................................................16 Neglect of Academic Obligations..........................................................................................................................16 Revision Weeks .....................................................................................................................................................16 Examination Regulations ......................................................................................................................................17 Suspension of Studies ...........................................................................................................................................18 Withdrawal from Studies......................................................................................................................................18 Course Details ...........................................................................................................................................................18 Feedback Sessions and Computer Classes ...........................................................................................................19 Programme and Module Specifications ...............................................................................................................19 Regulations for Students Entering their First Year in 2020/21.............................................................................20 SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 3 Change of Course/Module ...................................................................................................................................21 Changes to Your Course........................................................................................................................................22 Significant Experience...............................................................................................................................................22 Changes to Your Course........................................................................................................................................23 Your University Calendar and Teaching Timetable ..................................................................................................23 Marking and Assessment Practices ..........................................................................................................................24 Assessment Methods ...........................................................................................................................................24 Coursework Submission .......................................................................................................................................26 Feedback and the Return of Work from Staff ......................................................................................................26 Exam Marking and Grading Process .....................................................................................................................27 Progression and Classification of Awards .............................................................................................................28 Referencing and Academic Integrity ........................................................................................................................29 What we mean by ‘plagiarism’, ‘self-plagiarism’ and ‘collusion’ .........................................................................29 Resources and advice to help you study with integrity and avoid committing plagiarism ..................................30 Referencing style ..................................................................................................................................................30 Mitigating Circumstances .........................................................................................................................................31 Deadlines for submission of mitigating circumstances ........................................................................................31 Personal Support for Students .................................................................................................................................31 School Student Support Arrangements ................................................................................................................31 Equal Opportunities ..............................................................................................................................................33 University Student Support Arrangements ..........................................................................................................33 Careers and Skills Development ...............................................................................................................................34 Career Development Service ................................................................................................................................34 Student Voice: Giving us your feedback ...................................................................................................................35 Your course ...........................................................................................................................................................35 Student Experience Surveys .................................................................................................................................35 Your Students’ Union............................................................................................................................................36 Student Feedback Questionnaires .......................................................................................................................36 Student Forums ....................................................................................................................................................36 Student Staff Committees ....................................................................................................................................36 Informal Feedback Structure ................................................................................................................................36 School/Course Prizes ............................................................................................................................................37 Societies ....................................................................................................................................................................38 SUMS ....................................................................................................................................................................38 LASS ......................................................................................................................................................................38 Personal Belongings..................................................................................................................................................38 Complaints and Academic Appeals Procedures .......................................................................................................38 During exam periods.............................................................................................................................................39 SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 4 School of Mathematics and Actuarial Science Staff .................................................................................................40 Important dates 2020/21 .........................................................................................................................................41 SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 5 Welcome from the Head of School Welcome to the School of Mathematics and Actuarial Science at the University of Leicester. All our staff members hope that you will enjoy an interesting and worthwhile time at the university and we look forward to working with you over the next few years. We are a school of enthusiastic mathematicians and our research and teaching align closely to give you the best learning experience. This booklet provides background information about the School’s organisation and should help explain the most basic things you will need to know throughout the course. It cannot be exhaustive however and so one of its roles is to explain how to obtain more information on any given topic when you need it. Many of the topics covered will be greatly amplified during the Induction Week (the first week of the first Semester), details of which you have been given separately. Some things however will only become relevant as your course goes on, so it is a good idea to keep referring to this handbook. Best of luck with your studies, Professor Stephen Garrett Head of School Email: hosmaths@le.ac.uk SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 6
Disclaimer
All information in this brochure was correct at the time of issue. However, changes and developments are part
of the life of the University, and alterations may occur to the programme, its regulations and services described.
Introduction
Every endeavour will be made to update students of any changes, but we also ask that you check the
Mathematics Blackboard site for up to date information.
This handbook has been written to provide information to all our undergraduate students. It is intended to give
you the essential information required throughout your course of study, including an explanation on the
workings of the School. Specifically, it aims to:
• Introduce the University, the School and its staff;
• Outline our programme structures and course content;
• Confirm our teaching and assessment procedures;
• Advise on student expectations and regulations;
• Advise on study skills and other information important to being a student.
We strongly encourage you to read this handbook before you begin studying and to keep it to hand as you
progress through the programme. Further information will be provided to you as you progress with your
studies.
The University, College and School are constantly evolving and changing so there may be elements of this
handbook which are updated and changed during the duration of your studies. We therefore encourage you to
check the website and Blackboard regularly for updates to the handbook.
This handbook should be read in conjunction with the University’s Senate Regulations for Taught Programmes
www.le.ac.uk/sas/regulations
And the Programme Specifications
www.le.ac.uk/sas/courses/documentation
We welcome any comments or suggestions you may have to improve the handbook or Blackboard with relevant
information for students. Please write to us at mathematics@le.ac.uk if you have any suggestions.
Ignite – our approach to blended learning
In 2020/21 the University has introduced ignite – a blended learning approach that combines both face-to-face
study on campus and virtual learning. This allows you to study in the way that best suits your circumstances
whilst also ensuring that all of our students and staff can stay safe.
Ignite offers the flexibility to switch between the on-campus experience and virtual learning, while never losing
access to the academic and personal support that you may need. The University has over 25 years of experience
delivering distance learning programmes and we have used this in designing your learning experience for the
year to come.
How it works
1. Small group learning sessions, such as tutorials and seminars, will typically run face-to-face and/or be
live cast online;
SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTERUNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 7
2. Larger lectures will be delivered by live cast and/or recorded, so you can login and watch when you
want;
3. Academic and personal support will be available to you either virtually or face-to-face to respond to your
needs;
4. New students will be matched with a peer mentor (usually in their second or third year of study) to
guide you through your transition to university;
5. Our award-winning student support services, from the library to careers to well-being, will be available
both face-to-face and online with many of these available 24/7;
6. Our campus-based activities and face-to-face learning will adapt with the national and local situation.
This blended approach to learning allows you to control your student life while undertaking a fresh blended
learning experience and receiving outstanding academic and personal support wherever you are.
Our blended learning approach
Your learning experience in 2020/21 will include a broadly equivalent amount of course “contact time” as would
your degree in a pre-Covid environment, with the same core learning and an enhanced variety of learning
activities and approaches. It is important to note that the term “contact time” does not just include face-to-face
teaching, but all forms of teaching where your tutors are present either in person or in your online learning
environment, guiding you through the learning materials, meeting you in the regular live sessions and providing
feedback and support for your progress and assessments. As government guidance permits, more of your
contact time may return to face-to-face teaching during the year.
We have also revised our approach to assessment to avoid the use of large, in person examinations and instead
move to remote assessment wherever possible. All of our assessments have been designed to be resilient in the
event of further disruption from Covid-19, and we are seeking to ensure that they are all accessible and inclusive
to match our wider flexible learning environment.
Over the summer we have worked hard to review every course and module and ensure that it offers the best
academic experience for blended learning in 2020/21. You will receive more information about how individual
modules will be delivered as you work through the year, but we would like to highlight the following:
[Schools to include any specific elements that they want to highlight. In each case a brief bullet point is
sufficient, with links to later handbook sections, online resources or Blackboard where appropriate. Specific
areas may include]
• Any specific assessment requirements (note also PSRB section below)
• Attendance requirements (note also PSRB section below)
• Additional forms or synchronous or asynchronous learning that may be provided
• Fieldtrips
• Labs
• Access to resources (samples etc)
• Local pastoral support
There is more detail on ignite on the University website and the details of what this means for how you study
your course are addressed throughout this handbook.
Courses in the School are externally accredited which means that in addition to the University rules and
regulations we also have to ensure that our courses all meet the requirements of the relevant Professional,
Statutory or Regulatory Body. In the case of the School of Mathematics and Actuarial Science, this includes the
Institute and Faculty of Actuaries for BSc Mathematics and Actuarial Science.
SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTERUNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 8
Induction
Your first week
In the first week of term (28 September – 4 October 2020) the School runs an induction programme for students
who are just starting at Leicester.
You are officially welcomed to the University in your Matriculation ceremony on 28 September, which will take
place live online this year. Ceremonies will be broken down by college so please look at your timetable and
check which ceremony applies to you.
There are also many activities, outside of your school, to help you to make friends, discover campus and get
involved with university life. If you have any questions, our friendly Welcome Team will be around to help.
For International Students
All new and returning international (non-EU) students must complete the Visa Checkpoint at the start of each
academic year.
If you are attending the International Students Welcome Programme (ISWP) you will be given an appointment
time when you register. If you are not attending the ISWP, the University will send you an email telling you when
and where to attend a Visa Checkpoint.
We will check your visa and passport to ensure that you have a valid visa to study at the University of Leicester.
If you do not have a valid visa you will not be able to register and we will refer you to the Student Welfare
Service. They will assist you wherever possible to apply for a visa before the latest registration date.
Once you complete the Visa Checkpoint you will receive your University ID Card and a letter confirming that you
are registered with us.
What to bring with you
• Your current passport and visa (original documents only - copies will not be accepted)
• Your offer letter or other correspondence you have received from us with your nine digit student
number on it
You must complete the Visa Checkpoint by the deadline notified to you in your registration emails. If you do
not complete the Visa Checkpoint by this deadline you will not be able to start or continue your studies. If this
happens, please contact admissions@le.ac.uk or come to the Student Administration Centre in Ken Edwards
304.
School Details
The School of Mathematics and Actuarial Science is part of the College of Science and Engineering, which is
made up of us and several other schools: Chemistry, Informatics, Engineering, Geography, Geology and Physics.
The School has about 40 full time members of staff, comprising of an administrative team, and about 30
academic members of staff. At any one time there may also be a small number of academic visitors pursuing
their own mathematical research in collaboration with the permanent staff here.
The School takes in about 100 undergraduates each year. In addition, it is currently teaching many postgraduate
students who are working towards doctoral degrees (PhD's) or masters degrees (MSc's) and there are several
postdoctoral research associates working on more advanced projects.
The School is housed both in Ken Edwards and the Michael Atiyah Building. Ken Edwards 304 contains the
Student Administration Centre and some academic staff offices, whilst other academic offices are in the Michael
SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTERUNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 9
Atiyah Building, down the path behind the Engineering Building. A campus map can be found at
http://www2.le.ac.uk/maps
In addition to the undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, an equally important activity of the School is its
programme of mathematical research. Most of our academic members of staff are actively engaged in research
and are frequently guests of universities in this and other countries to lecture on their work. Most will be happy
to describe their research to you if you are interested. Further details about the School can be found at:
https://le.ac.uk/mathematics
School Communications
The first point of reference when looking for information should be the Mathematics Undergraduates and
Mathematics Induction sections of the Blackboard site at blackboard.le.ac.uk for which all students will be
granted access from the first week of term. If you have any problems accessing the site please contact the
Student Administration Centre. This site provides access to all the important administrative arrangements for
working towards your degree including timetables, exams and module information, important contact details,
careers information, module registration guidance and much more. It will also include the most up to date
version of the student handbook. Students are expected to check their email regularly and to access their
Blackboard course site regularly.
More general information about the University can be found on links from the main University page
www.le.ac.uk. In particular, this page includes a link to email addresses of all staff and students of the
University.
Staff List and Key Contacts
Your first point of contact for any general query should be to the School Office in Ken Edwards 304. Here
members of the administration team will be able to help and give advice and where necessary provide you with
the appropriate support to solve any issues you have or point you to the correct person.
Student Administration Centre, Ken Edwards 304
Office Opening Hours:
Monday – Thursday 9:00am-5pm
Email: mathematics@le.ac.uk
Contacting the Head of School
Should you need to speak with the Head of School about any matter please make an appointment in advance as
he is not often available without a prior appointment. You can make an appointment by emailing:
hosmaths@le.ac.uk
Contacting Academic Staff
All of the School’s academic staff members make available term-time office hours which you can make use of to
speak with staff. Each member of staff will either display their office hours on their door or on Blackboard; if you
require any support or advice you are more than welcome to contact them at these times. If you need to see a
member of staff outside these times we would strongly recommend you contact them via email to make an
appointment.
SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTERUNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 10
Other staff members you may need to contact include:
Title Member of Staff Tel Email
Head of School Prof Stephen 0116 252 3899 Hosmaths@le.ac.uk
Garrett
Head of Learning Prof Ruslan 0116 252 3819 Rld8@le.ac.uk
and Teaching Davidchack
BSc/MMath Dr Jason Semeraro 0116 252 3892 jpgs1@le.ac.uk
Programme
Director
BSc Mathematics Mr Nick Foster 0116 229 7540 nick.foster@le.ac.uk
and Actuarial
Science Programme
Director
Senior/Accessibility Dr Alex Baranov 0116 252 2519 Ab155@le.ac.uk
Tutor
Woman’s Pastoral Dr Katrin Leschke 0116 252 5237 Kl96@le.ac.uk
Tutor
Equal Opportunities Prof Ivan Tyukin 0116 252 5106 It37@le.ac.uk
Tutor
Exams Officer Dr Simona Paoli 0116 252 1031 sp424@le.ac.uk
Careers Tutor TBC
Undergraduate Mr Nick Foster
0116 229 7540 nick.foster@le.ac.uk
Placement Tutor
Head of Student Prof Jeremy 0116 252 3897 Jl1@le.ac.uk
Support Levesley
A full staff list can be found at the end of this handbook.
Student Communications and Personal Details
The University keeps a record of your personal details such as your full name, addresses (i.e. home address and
term-time address), telephone numbers, personal email address and your emergency contact details. It is
important to keep your details up to date as this will help you to receive information about your studies and
exams and also ensure that official documents are provided to you with the correct name details.
You can check and update your details by logging-in to MyStudentRecord using your University username and
password. Click on the My Details tab and you will then be able to review and change your personal details.
It is important that you check your University email account frequently to ensure that you do not miss any
important communication from the University.
School Facilities
You will find computer laboratories in various buildings on the campus (such as the library). There are computing
facilities available in the Computing and Design Lab on the first floor of the Engineering Design Lab Building. The
location of the building is at the rear of the Engineering Building, walking towards the Sports Centre car park, on,
opposite the side of the Library coffee shop.
SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTERUNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 11
Learning Support
Studying at university will be different from anything you have done before. This will be particularly true in this
academic year as your course will be delivered in a new and exciting blended model. The University’s caring and
approachable staff are here to help you achieve your career aspirations. The University engages students as
partners in developing the curriculum and placing them at the heart of their own learning.
There are a range of learning resources and services to support your learning, including:
• How to make the most of the Library
• Develop your IT skills
• How to manage your own learning
• Improve your English language
• Get independent advice about your course
• Manage your student information
University Library
The Library is your gateway to high quality information relevant to your studies. Using it effectively contributes
directly to your success.
The Library provides you with:
• access to a huge range of specialist digital and print information resources for your subject
• help in finding and using information - online, face to face and by telephone
• individual and group study space
• PCs and wireless networking for your own device throughout the David Wilson Library
• services for distance learners.
You can access the majority of library resources online. Use Library Search on the Library home page to find
material for your assignments.
Whilst subject to Covid-19 social distancing obligations the library will be open. Guidance about studying safely
in the library and respecting it is a shared resource for all members of the University will be kept updated on the
Library webpages.
You can contact the Library using our Enquiry Service or email library@le.ac.uk.
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook
For information about your subject, please visit https://www2.le.ac.uk/library/find/subjects/mathematics
IT Services
Whilst registered as a student at the University you will have a University IT account and email address.
We provide a wide variety of IT services to help you study:
• Student email: access your email and calendar anywhere; on your laptop or mobile device
• Online training and resources: to help you use Microsoft Office and other study tools
• Microsoft Office: available at no cost whilst you study at the University
• Programs: download and install programs for home use on a personal laptop
• IT Help: Use the IT Self Service or email ithelp@le.ac.uk
• Wifi: free access to eduroam wifi at any participating university campus
• OneDrive: the online storage location for all your files
• Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment: support and information for all your courses
• Leicester Digital Library: access to journals, databases and electronic books online.
SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTERUNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 12
Student Learning Development
Studying for a degree is a stimulating, challenging and rewarding experience. In order to make the most of this
experience, the University of Leicester provides a wide range of resources and services to support and enhance
your academic development in areas such as essay-writing, critical thinking, independent learning and time-
management. The Student Learning Development Team is here to help you develop the academic skills and
abilities you need in order to succeed in your studies.
Learn a Language Online or On-Campus with Languages at Leicester
Study with Languages at Leicester online or on-campus in small groups taught by expert and native tutors who
are based within our School of Arts. Over 95% of our students say they have a positive and enjoyable learning
experience and would recommend us to a friend!
We offer 19 different languages including Arabic, British Sign Language, Chinese, German, Korean and Spanish
to name just a few, eight levels of learning and two course-lengths. Online courses are delivered in small groups
through Zoom, while learning materials are shared through Course Sites on Blackboard. Classes take place
during evenings and Wednesday afternoons, as well as intensive ‘fast track’ courses on Saturday mornings. So,
they won’t clash with your other modules and you can study in a way that suits you.
When the situation allows it, we will deliver courses on campus. Find out more about Languages at Leicester’s
courses, including fees and term dates.
The successful completion of a Languages at Leicester course will appear on your Higher Education Achievement
Report (HEAR) when you graduate.
Contact Languages at Leicester +44(0)116 252 2662 | lalenquiries@le.ac.uk
Mathematics Support Wiki
The Mathematics Support Wiki is part of the University's Mathematics Help Centre. It provides high quality
online resources for you to refresh your understanding of the mathematics which you will need before starting
your degree course.
You will need to login with your University username and password. You may find this wiki particularly useful for
recalling material prior to the basic skills test at the start of the first year.
Your Students’ Union
As a University of Leicester student you automatically become a member of our Students’ Union (SU), giving you
access to our many fantastic services that aim to ensure you have an exceptional student experience. We are an
empowering, innovative and inclusive student-led SU, championing your interests and providing you with a
community that is a home away from home.
Our services cover the areas of:
• Support - Advice and development to ensure you’re supported throughout your student journey
• Voice - Making sure your university is reflective of your needs and helping you to make change.
• Opportunities – Joining a society or sports club, volunteering and working for us are some of the
opportunities we offer to help enhance your experience, whilst developing friendships and skills along
the way.
We’re here for you every step of your time here, so we’ve outlined your membership benefits below.
SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTERUNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 13 Support Advice Service (formerly the Education Unit) We provide free, confidential academic, housing and general signposting advice for all students. You may need help putting together an appeal or complaint (academic and non-academic), mitigating circumstances form, or have other course/assessment queries. We also provide guidance on finding housing, moving in or out, repair issues, housemate concerns, and deposit returns. Visit our website below for information on the full range of matters we can help with, access useful resources and find guides on processes you may need to follow. We also provide signposting to other SU, university, student-led, online and community services that may be able to help you. These come together under Leicester Talks, covering areas such as physical and mental health, sexual health, money and legal matters, bullying and abuse. For further information about us and how to get in touch, head to the Advice Service website. We ask that you complete our online form to start speaking with us, however you can drop-in, email advice@le.ac.uk or phone us on 0116 223 1132 if you need advice urgently. Peer Mentor Scheme We allocate you a Peer Mentor in your first year who acts as a friendly point of contact for you to get advice and support from to help you make the most of your student experience. Your Mentor is a second or third year student who can give you valuable insight, whether its tips on great places to get food to who to approach if you need specific support. Visit our website to find out more about the Peer Mentoring Scheme or email peermentoring@le.ac.uk to sign- up. Training and Development Workshops Benefit from a range of free training workshops that aim to empower you to get the most out of your university experience, particularly on areas such as employability and wellbeing. You can also gain accredited training through online courses on subjects such as safeguarding and equality and diversity. Get in touch with the SU training team. Voice Executive Officers Executive Officers are here to represent your views to the University and the wider community. They are always keen to hear from you and seek through their work to develop and enhance your experience as students at Leicester. Say hello to your Executive Officers and learn about their projects. Part-Time Officers Part-Time Officers are seen as crucial to the future development of the Union. Their key responsibility is to make sure that the group they represent receives the support and services they require. They seek to improve the overall experience students have during their time at the University of Leicester. Also elected by students, they work alongside our Full-time Executive Officers. Academic Representation – Course, School and College Representatives Academic Representation is a partnership between the Representatives, SU and the schools of the University. Together we aim to ensure that students play an essential role in guaranteeing and driving the quality of your academic experience. Your Course Representatives are your first point of contact for you in regards to issues, concerns, questions and successes regarding your course. SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 14 Visit the Academic Representation webpages for further information. You can get in touch by emailing coursereps@le.ac.uk Students Council/Your Ideas Students Council is where you are able to debate and discuss issues that affect students. Any student, through the submission of our ideas form, can submit an idea. Elected student representatives who sit on Council then discuss and vote on proposals and policies and create change that will enhance student experience, set the SU stance on key issues and conduct campaigns on relevant topics for you. Visit the Students Council webpages for further information. You can get in touch by emailing unioncouncil@le.ac.uk Equality and Liberation Champions Equality and Liberation Champions (ELCs), represent the needs and views of students who are frequently underrepresented in the curriculum, social activities and other aspects of University life. They work with our Students' Union staff to represent, engage and help to improve the experience of students from a liberation background i.e. BAME, Women, LGBT+, Trans and Non-binary and Accessibility. Together, we aim to create an inclusive, decolonised and accessible curriculum and campus Find out more about Equality and Liberation Champions The School student Diversity Champion and STEM Women lead is Shamia Sanjania (sms87@student.le.ac.uk), and she is happy to be contacted if you would either like to get involved, or you would like to talk to another students about challenges you are facing. Opportunities Societies We have over 200 societies and sports clubs here at the SU which means there’s something for everyone to get involved with. Whether you want to meet your course mates in an academic group or ‘Give it a Go’ with a new hobby, it’s a great way to meet people from across the University and learn new skills. Many of our groups have thriving in person and online communities Find out more about student opportunites. Get in touch by emailing unionactivities@le.ac.uk Sport We have many ways you can get involved with sport from joining Team Leicester and competing nationally, to sports societies, intramural sports, Let’s do Leicester and becoming a member at our sports facilities. Keeping healthy through sports can greatly benefit your wellbeing academically and socially, whilst increasing your skills and employability. Find out more about sport opportunities. Get in touch by emailing su-sports@le.ac.uk Volunteering We offer a range of volunteering and fundraising opportunities for students to find a cause you are passionate about, gain experience for your future career, and make friends whilst giving back. Through our volunteer partner scheme, Raising and Giving programme and student led volunteering, we aim to offer something for everyone, across a variety of locations and platforms. Find out more about volunteering opportunities. Get in touch by emailing unionactivities@le.ac.uk SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 15
Fundraising
Raising and Giving (RAG) is our unique student fundraising offer. Each year the student RAG Committee and
volunteers lead and coordinate charitable giving and fundraising activities across the student body. RAG activity
raises thousands for charitable causes through fun and quirky events, challenges, trips and online campaigns.
Find out more about fundraising activities. Get in touch by emailing unionactivities@le.ac.uk
Get in touch
For general enquiries speak with our friendly Reception team 9:00 – 17:00 Monday to Friday term-time (11:00 –
15:00 outside of term), email hellosu@le.ac.uk or phone 0116 223 1181.
Students’ Union response to COVID-19
Your Students' Union has continued to operate throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and has tried its best to
minimise disruption to students. Whilst our face-to-face interactions have changed, we have continued to
provide on-hand virtual support from our Advice Service, and have worked closely with our societies and sports
clubs to ensure they are able to adequately support their members.
Our Executive Officers have been working closely with our Student Voice Team to mitigate the impact of the
pandemic on our current and future student experience. They have also had regular meetings with the
University to raise key issues, ensuring that everything that can be done for students is being done.
If you require any of our services or have any questions surrounding COVID-19, visit our COVID-19 frequently
asked questions page. Alternatively, you can contact our Executive Officer Team to voice any concerns you may
have.
University Regulations
Senate Regulations contain rules and other important information about being a student at the University of
Leicester. The Regulations are part of the formal contract between you and the University; you will have
confirmed when completing registration that you will comply with procedures defined in the University’s
Regulations.
The main components of Senate Regulations are summarised in the Quick Guide to Regulations. The Quick Guide
to Student Responsibilities summarises some of your most important responsibilities as a student of the
University of Leicester, as defined in detail in the Regulations. These responsibilities relate to:
• Student Code of Conduct
• engagement
• submission of work by set deadlines
• term time employment (full-time students – Home/EU and International)
• illness or other circumstances impacting upon studies
• maintaining your personal details
• the additional responsibilities of international students
Failure to adhere to student responsibilities can have serious consequences and may lead to the termination of
your studies.
Student Responsibilities and Conduct
The University expects its students to behave responsibly and with consideration to others at all times. This
includes behaving appropriately in your social life, as well as when using online services and social media, as
students can be identified as representatives of the University. The University’s expectations about student
behaviour are described in:
SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTERUNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 16
• the Regulations governing Student Conduct
• the Code of Practice governing Freedom of Speech
It is important that you familiarise yourself with the Student Code of Conduct which sets out these expectations.
The Senate Regulations also describe the processes where a student may be considered in breach of these
regulations, how this will be investigated and what sanctions may be applied.
You can find these Regulations and Code of Practice alongside Senate Regulations
The Regulations governing Student Conduct set out the University’s expectations of students in relation to both
their academic integrity and personal conduct. You can find more details in this handbook on academic integrity
in the section Referencing and Academic Integrity.
Attendance and Engagement Requirements
Engagement with your course is an essential requirement for success in your studies. Engagement with your
studies includes both the face to face teaching that you may be due to attend and also the online learning
sessions that are provided for your course. The University’s expectations about engagement and attendance are
defined in Senate Regulation 4: governing student obligations - you can find Senate Regulation 4 via the Senate
Regulations homepage. You should attend all lectures, seminars, practical sessions and other formal classes
specified in your course timetable, in person or virtually as the course allows, unless you have been officially
advised that attendance at a particular session is not compulsory or you have received formal approval for
absence. You are also expected to undertake all assessments set for you.
The University operates a Student Attendance Monitoring System. Your attendance will be monitored
throughout the academic year and if sessions are missed without an acceptable explanation being provided to
your school then you will be contacted in accordance with the stages laid out in the University’s Policy on
Student Engagement. This can result in your case being referred to an Attendance Panel and your course of
study being suspended or terminated.
You can find the Policy on Engagement via the Senate Regulations homepage in the related policies section.
If you are an international student and your course is terminated this will be reported to UK Visas and
Immigration (UKVI), in line with University sponsor obligations.
Neglect of Academic Obligations
You are expected to attend, in person or virtually, all learning and teaching events which are timetabled for you.
These include lectures, tutorials or practical classes. You are also expected to submit work within the deadlines
notified to you. Persistent failure to attend taught sessions and/or to submit work, without good cause, will be
considered to be a neglect of academic obligations. School procedures for dealing with neglect are set out
within the University’s Senate Regulations (see Senate Regulation 4: Neglect of academic obligations). In the
most serious of cases of neglect the University has the right to terminate a student’s course.
Revision Weeks
To give students time to prepare for tests (where applicable) and/or start revision for the final exams, a week of
each semester is designated as a Revision Week. During this week, there will be no scheduled lectures, feedback
sessions, computer labs, etc., and no new material will be taught. Note, however, that this is not a holiday, so
you should not take a break from your studies. You should use this week to organise your study material
(lecture notes, solutions to coursework assignments), review it to identify material that you do not
know/understand and focus your efforts on understanding/learning this material. If you are unable to
understand the material on your own, seek assistance from the lecturers, feedback session leaders, peer
supporters, student mentors, and personal tutors. Module convenors may schedule additional office hours,
consultations, revision sessions, etc., depending on the needs of their modules and feedback received from
students. Career events and other activities designed to enhance student experience may also be scheduled
during this week, which students will be expected to attend.
SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTERUNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 17
Examination Regulations
If your course involves any campus based exams you must ensure that you are familiar with the University's
Examination Regulations. These contain a variety of regulatory information and instructions relating to campus
based exams, including the rules governing:
• scheduling
• admittance
• student conduct
• permitted and prohibited items and clothing
• use of calculators and dictionaries
• absence due to illness
• cheating
You can also find information about exams in the Students’ Guide to Exams
In the 2020/21 academic year much of your assessment will take place remotely, such as open book exams. The
specific format of assessments will be set out in the module information. Whatever the form of assessment the
University expects students to follow the principles of academic integrity, further details are included below.
Calculators
You will be informed in each examined module as to whether you can use a calculator in the examination, and if
so, what sort of calculator. If your examination is online, you are allowed to use any calculator that you have.
Examination Timetable
A timetable of examinations will be emailed to you. This will happen shortly before the end of the first term for
the January examinations and early in the third term for the May exams. Students required to attend the resit
examinations at the end of July or in August will be sent details of the exam timetable over the summer.
Students are responsible for ensuring that they can access examination materials at the appropriate times.
Resit/July exam period
Any necessary re-sit exams will take place in the July-August exam period. It is your responsibility to ensure you
are available for these exams; therefore do not make plans to travel or be away from Leicester until it is
confirmed you will not have any exams to take or that the exams will be accessible online.
Module failure
Once all of your assessment marks are known, if you have failed a module (with an overall mark below 40%), you
may be permitted to re-sit the assessment for the module. The decision as to whether you need to re-sit will not
be taken until you have attempted all your modules for the year. This decision is taken by the Board of
Examiners which meets in June each year. Students who pass a module (mark of 40% or more) will not be
permitted to re-sit any assessment contributing to that module for the purpose of improving the mark.
Because of the nature of each module it is not always possible to re-sit the assessment for the module in the
same format. In many cases re-sits will be by 100% examination. Your original coursework mark(s) will no longer
count towards your module mark. Please refer to the module specification for exact details of any alternative re-
assessments. https://www2.le.ac.uk/offices/sas2/courses/documentation
If you fail a module then you will normally be allowed to resit the examination in July (or in the case of a final
year module that is preventing you from graduating, during the following academic year). You will be sent
timetable information about your resit exams in the summer vacation. Note that the resit examination
timetable cannot be varied to accommodate private holiday arrangements. Students who fail at the end of their
final year - and this is a rare occurrence – may be permitted to resit the examination part of failed modules in
the appropriate examination periods the following year.
SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTERUNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 18
Suspension of Studies
A suspension of studies is an approved period of absence away from your programme of study. If something is
affecting your ability to study and you need to take some time away then you may apply to suspend your studies
and return at a later point.
If you are considering suspending your studies we are here to help you make the right decision for you. Before
making a decision we would strongly advise that you speak with your academic school and, if relevant, support
services at the University. In addition, there are likely to be practical repercussions on your student funding, the
fees you are due to pay the University and your accommodation. It is important you understand these before
you make your decision.
You should discuss with your school the length of time you take away to ensure your return point is appropriate.
To request a period of suspense you must complete the suspense request form and then submit it to your
school.
More detailed guidance on suspension of studies.
Withdrawal from Studies
A withdrawal from studies is when you permanently leave your programme of study. If something is affecting
your ability to study and you need to take some time away then you may wish to consider suspending your
studies and returning at a later point rather than completely withdrawing.
If you are considering withdrawing from your studies we are here to help you make the right decision for you.
Before making a decision we would strongly advise that you speak with your academic school and, if relevant,
support services at the University. In addition, there are likely to be practical repercussions on your student
funding, the fees you are due to pay the University, and your accommodation. It is important you understand
these before you make your decision.
If you are withdrawing because you want to take a different course at the University, you should speak to the
course team about the possibility of transferring course. If, however, you are absolutely sure that you wish to
withdraw you must complete the withdrawal form.
More detailed guidance about withdrawal from studies.
Course Details
The formal teaching is principally divided into:
• Lectures
• Feedback sessions and surgeries
• Computer practical’s
• Workshops, seminars
Attendance at these activities only provides a part of the learning process. To make proper progress with your
studies you have to work through the material covered in these sessions on your own and seek help if you get
stuck. In fact, this is the main difference between studies at school and university and is the point where many
students find the greatest difficulties in making the transition from one system to the other. This other side to
university studies, the activities that require you to make the first initiative, can be divided as follows:
• Example sheets, computer laboratories and other assignments
• Use of textbooks and library facilities
• Personal Tutor group sessions
• Peer support
SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTERUNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020-21 19
• Informal questioning of members of staff
Of course being at university, perhaps being away from home for the first time, can provide many interesting
distractions for you. However, the degree to which you can organise yourself to do assigned work and seek help
if you get stuck will largely determine your degree of success or failure in your studies here. Below are notes on
each of the teaching and learning activities listed above:
Feedback Sessions and Computer Classes
For each module in the School of Mathematics and Actuarial Science, there are associated feedback sessions.
The idea is to provide you with a regular occasion where you can discuss the work recently covered in lectures
and in the associated coursework with a postgraduate student in the School. If you have a difficulty concerning
the arrangements you should go and see the feedback session leader, module convenor or lecturer as soon as
possible.
Feedback Session Groups
For some modules you will be assigned to a small group, with an appropriate time and tutor. These are designed
to provide direct support to the module, typically based on related problem sheets. You will usually have been
given some work to complete before each of these classes and you will gain far more from them if you have
attempted the assignments first. In fact, without working on these assignments, you will not know where your
strengths and weaknesses lie and so will not be able to get the support you need in order to pass the module
assessments later.
Computer Practicals
Practical computer classes form a significant part of the teaching in some of the School’s modules. Your
completed assignments of practical work will have to be handed in by specified dates, which must be adhered
to; late work will usually receive no marks.
Classes are usually arranged so that there are no clashes between them and your other work, but if a problem
arises you should inform the Student Administration team.
Workshops and Seminars
Where appropriate, some modules run workshops or seminars. These provide an additional or alternative
opportunity to study and discuss the material in the module. Details will be given in each of the relevant
modules.
Programme and Module Specifications
In the programme specification you will find a summary of the aims of your course of study and its learning
outcomes, alongside details of its teaching and learning methods and means of assessment. The programme
specification also identifies the core modules that make up the course and any choice of optional modules. Each
module has its own specification that formally records that module’s aims, teaching and learning methods,
assessment components and their percentage weighting.
View the programme and module specifications for your course.
The academic year is divided into two semesters. Semester 1 consists of 11 teaching weeks followed by 6 days
set aside for assessment in January. Semester 2 consists of 11 teaching weeks followed by three weeks set aside
for assessment in May/June. Dates of semesters and terms are included at the back of this handbook and can
be found on Blackboard with timetable information.
Each degree programme is made up of a range of modules, some of which are core and others which can be
chosen from a range of options depending on the programme. Students take a number of modules each
semester and are examined at the end of each semester. Each module has a credit value ranging from 15 credits
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