Coursework Awards Rule 2019

Overview

The Australian National University Coursework Awards Rule 2019 was enacted in 2019 to provide a structured framework for the administration of coursework awards offered by the Australian National University (ANU). This legislative instrument was made under the Vice-Chancellorship Statute 2013, section 9.5, and serves to formalise the processes and standards related to the awarding of coursework qualifications at the university. The rule addresses the need for a cohesive and transparent system to govern student achievements and academic recognition within ANU. The policy objective of the Rule is to ensure that the legislative framework governing coursework awards remains clear, up-to-date, and reflective of academic standards and quality, as overseen by the University’s Academic Standards and Quality Office through its annual review process.

Scope and Application

The Australian National University Coursework Awards Rule 2019 applies to individuals enrolled in or seeking enrolment in coursework programs at the Australian National University. This rule serves to outline the framework for the completion of studies that culminate in the awarding of coursework degrees by the university. The rule is applicable within the jurisdiction of the Australian Capital Territory, where the Australian National University is located. While the rule itself does not incorporate any other documents by reference, it is subject to the broader statutory framework provided by the Vice-Chancellorship Statute 2013. The University's Academic Standards and Quality Office is responsible for an annual review of this and related legislation, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in the context of current educational standards and student needs. This continuous review process helps to maintain the currency and appropriateness of the rule, aligning it with any legislative changes or educational developments.

Key Provisions

The Australian National University Coursework Awards Rule 2019 (the "Rule") is a set of provisions designed to govern the awarding of coursework degrees at the university. Section 3(1) outlines the criteria for the award of a degree, specifying that a student must complete a program of study as prescribed by the university and satisfy any other requirements set out in the Rule. Section 4(1) details the different types of coursework degrees that can be awarded, including undergraduate and postgraduate awards. Section 5(1) provides for the possibility of a student being awarded a degree with distinction, subject to certain criteria being met. The Rule imposes several obligations on students and the university. Students are required to adhere to the program of study as prescribed by the university, which includes attending classes, completing assessments, and meeting any other requirements set out in the Rule (section 3(2)). The university is required to ensure that the program of study meets certain standards, including being of a sufficient duration and content to meet the requirements of the degree (section 3(3)). The university is also required to maintain records of student enrolment and progress, and to provide students with access to those records (section 6(1)). Breach of the Rule can result in a range of consequences, depending on the nature and severity of the breach. Section 8(1) provides that a student who fails to meet the requirements for a degree may be refused the award of the degree. Section 9(1) provides that a student who is found to have engaged in academic misconduct, such as plagiarism or cheating, may be subject to disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion from the university. The Rule also provides for the possibility of civil or criminal proceedings being taken against a person who interferes with or obstructs the university in the performance of its functions (section 10(1)). The maximum penalties for offences under the Rule are not specified in the Explanatory Statement, but may be found in other legislation or regulations.