Academic Progress Rules 2007

Overview

The Australian National University Academic Progress Rules 2007 were enacted to govern the academic progress and enrolment status of students in coursework award programs at the institution. This legislative instrument was developed under the authority of the Programs and Awards Statute 2006, section 8, to address the need for clear guidelines on the circumstances under which students may face refusal of re-enrolment or exclusion from their respective programs. The primary objective of these rules is to ensure that students are provided with fair and transparent procedures for managing their academic progress, including the right to appeal any adverse decisions. The rules were formally approved by the Council of the Australian National University, reflecting a comprehensive consultation process within the university's governance structure.

Scope and Application

The Australian National University Academic Progress Rules 2007, made under the authority of the Programs and Awards Statute 2006, section 8, govern the academic progress of students enrolled in coursework award programs at the university. These rules outline the specific conditions under which students may be refused re-enrolment in courses or excluded from their respective programs of study, as well as the appeal processes available to them. The rules are designed to ensure that students meet certain academic standards and progress effectively through their studies. They apply to all students enrolled in coursework award programs at the Australian National University, providing a clear framework for academic performance and progression. The rules do not incorporate any other documents by reference and were considered and approved by the university's Council, indicating their formal adoption and applicability within the institution's governance structure.

Key Provisions

The Australian National University Academic Progress Rules 2007 (sections 1-6) outline the specific conditions under which students enrolled in coursework award programs may be refused re-enrolment in a course or courses, or excluded from a program of study. The rules define academic progress in terms of a student's ability to complete their program within a specified period and to achieve a certain level of performance in their courses. These rules are designed to ensure that students are making satisfactory progress towards the completion of their degree. Section 3 details the criteria for measuring academic progress, including the calculation of the Weighted Average Mark (WAM) and the number of courses a student can attempt within a given time frame. Section 4 outlines the process for refusing re-enrolment or excluding a student from a program, which includes providing the student with an opportunity to respond to the proposed action. The obligations imposed on students under these rules (sections 5-6) include maintaining a minimum level of academic performance and completing their program within the prescribed time limits. Students must achieve a minimum WAM and complete a certain percentage of their courses within the specified time frame to remain in good academic standing. Additionally, students are required to adhere to any additional academic progress requirements set by their faculty or school. The rules also impose obligations on the University to provide students with clear information about academic progress requirements and to follow due process when considering refusal of re-enrolment or exclusion. The Australian National University Academic Progress Rules 2007 include provisions for offences, penalties, and consequences for breaches of the rules (sections 7-9). Section 7 specifies that failure to meet the academic progress requirements may result in refusal of re-enrolment or exclusion from a program. Section 8 outlines the appeal process for students who wish to contest a decision to refuse re-enrolment or exclude them from a program. Section 9 addresses the potential civil and criminal consequences for students who engage in academic misconduct, such as plagiarism or cheating, which may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion from the University. While the rules do not specify maximum penalties, they do state that the severity of the penalty will depend on the nature and seriousness of the offence.