Undergraduate Awards Rules 2013

Overview

The Australian National University Undergraduate Awards Rules 2013 were enacted to provide a clear framework for the administration of undergraduate programs at the institution. This legislative instrument was introduced to address the need for a comprehensive set of rules governing the awarding of undergraduate degrees, ensuring consistency and transparency in the academic processes. The enactment of these rules was authorised under section 8 of the Programs and Awards Statute 2013. They were approved by the Council of the University at its meeting on 15 February 2013, and are intended to commence on the same day as allowed by the Legislative Instruments Act 2003. The explanatory statement confirms that the retrospective effect of the rules will not adversely impact the rights or disadvantage any individuals.

Scope and Application

The Australian National University Undergraduate Awards Rules 2013 govern the conduct and administration of undergraduate awards provided by the Australian National University. This legislation applies to all students enrolled in undergraduate programs at the University, ensuring they understand the criteria and procedures for obtaining such awards. It applies specifically to the academic activities and administrative processes within the University's jurisdiction, and does not extend beyond the boundaries of the Australian National University. Notably, the Rules do not incorporate any other documents by reference, maintaining a self-contained framework for governance. Developed under the authority of section 8 of the Programs and Awards Statute 2013, these Rules were deliberated and approved by the University Council on 15 February 2013, with an effective date set for the same day. This retrospective effect ensures that the Rules apply immediately, without adversely affecting the rights or disadvantaging any students already enrolled in undergraduate programs.

Key Provisions

The Australian National University Undergraduate Awards Rules 2013 (the "Rules") are designed to provide a structured framework for the operation and administration of undergraduate programs at the University. Key sections of the Rules (section 1) outline the governance structure, program requirements, and the award criteria for undergraduate degrees. Section 2 details the types of undergraduate awards that can be conferred, while Section 3 sets out the credit points required for completion of a degree. Section 4 provides information on the rules for the recognition of prior learning and transfer of credit, and Section 5 outlines the procedures for appeals and grievances. The Rules impose several obligations on the university and its students. For example, Section 6 requires students to adhere to the academic integrity policy, which includes guidelines on plagiarism and cheating. Section 7 details the enrolment procedures, including the deadlines for adding or dropping courses. Additionally, Section 8 mandates that students must complete a minimum number of courses within a specified period to remain in good academic standing. The university is also obligated to provide adequate academic support services, as outlined in Section 9, to assist students in meeting their academic requirements. Failure to comply with the provisions of the Rules can result in various consequences. Section 10 states that students who plagiarise or commit other forms of academic misconduct may face disciplinary action, which can include suspension or expulsion from the University. Section 11 outlines the penalties for non-compliance with enrolment deadlines, which may result in the forfeiture of tuition fees or ineligibility to receive a degree. Section 12 specifies that appeals against decisions made under the Rules must be submitted within a specified timeframe, and failure to do so may result in the appeal being dismissed. The maximum penalties for serious breaches of academic integrity, as stated in Section 13, can include fines or other sanctions deemed appropriate by the University.