Student Handbook

Your Student Handbook provides
you with important information

to help you integrate into the
University community, develop
your skills and achieve your
goals. It is a valuable resource
for your journey through the
learning experience.
Chris Twine,
Director, Student Support and Development
Academic Year 2010–2011
Student Handbook
This document can be
made available in other
formats. Please telephone
0121 414 7178 or email
formats@contacts.bham.ac.uk
Welcome to the
University of Birmingham
Whether you are new to higher education or returning to study, this handbook will be an
invaluable resource to use during your time at the University of Birmingham. It contains
advice on money matters, accommodation, study skills and careers support. There is
information on your Guild of Students, guidance on support networks and services,
and the facilities on and around campus. By taking advantage of all that the University
has to offer, we believe that you will develop lasting learning, social and personal skills.
Please make time to read through all sections and understand their implications. Even
if it seems rather remote at the moment, you will need to make sure that you read the
sections on examinations, assessments, regulations and procedures, so that you know
what is expected of you at key times during your university career. The University expects
all of its students to be aware of their responsibilities and rights, so together we can
maintain the high academic quality and standards of our programmes of study.
You will also have received a student diary that contains essential information to
guide you through your first year. The Welcome website, which can be found at
www.welcome.bham.ac.uk, will provide helpful information to supplement the
student diary and is updated throughout the year.
I very much hope that you will enjoy your time at Birmingham.
Professor Adrian Randall

Pro-Vice Chancellor, Teaching, Learning and Quality
4 Student Handbook 2010–11
Contents
1 Equality and diversity statement 4 Money matters

Equality and diversity 8 Payment of tuition fees 40
Equal opportunities 9 Continuation fee for
Harassment 10 doctoral researchers 40
Health and safety 10 Payment of residential
accommodation fees 40
2 Student Charter 13 Council Tax 41
Electoral roll 41
3 Support services Student Finance England 42
Academic and Maintenance grant 43
Student Administration 18 Additional financial support 43
Student Funding Office 20 Obtaining outside employment 45
Counselling and Guidance 20 Celebrating and recognising
Students with disabilities and achievement 45
specific learning difficulties 21 International students 45
Mental wellbeing 22
Accommodation Services 23 5 Student development and
International Student study support
Advisory Service (ISAS) 23 Learning at Birmingham 48
The new points-based immigration Tutorial arrangements 49
system: information for The University Graduate School 49
visa-national students 24 Your personal development
English language support and career 50
for international students 28 Careers and employability 51
Guild of Students 28 Computing services and facilities 54
Health care 33 Library Services 57
Dental care 34 Guide to Effective Learning (GEL) 60
Meningitis 34 English language support 60
Drug and alcohol policy 34
Nursery 35 6 Examination and assessment
Chaplaincy 35 Examination dates and procedures 62
Mitigations 65
Medical certificates for illness during
examinations and other times 66
Appeals 67
Doctoral researchers: thesis
submission and examination 68
Statements and transcripts 68
Student Handbook 2010–11 5
7 Regulations and procedures 9 Preparing to leave the University

University legislation 72 Temporary or permanent
Academic duty and attendance 72 withdrawal 94
Discipline 73 Graduation 95
Fitness to practise 73 Staying in touch 96
Complaints procedure 73 Managing your money
Mitigation and appeals 73 after graduation 97
Data protection 74 Visa and immigration advice 98
Copyright and photocopying 75
Security 77 10 Maps and directions
The Edgbaston campus 102
Leisure activities
8 University locations 104
The Vale Village and The Hub 80 The Selly Oak campus 105
Sport 81 Directions 106
Campus treasures (museums
and other attractions) 83 Index 107
Barber Institute of Fine Arts 83
collections 84
Special Collections 85
Lapworth Museum of Geology 87
Winterbourne House and Garden 88
Music in the University 89

Equality and diversity statement
The University of Birmingham and its Guild of Students

are working towards a truly inclusive community
The University and its Guild of Students are committed to creating and maintaining a
peaceful, respectful and supportive learning environment. As a member of this community,
you play a significant role in upholding these values. The diversity of age, gender, sexual
orientation and political, religious and spiritual beliefs of our staff and students, and the
difference in cultural and social backgrounds across the University, give our community
strength and vitality and helps us to be both intellectually challenging and stimulating.
The University therefore views very seriously any act of intolerance or unfair discriminatory
behaviour towards any member of the University at any time.
We expect all staff and students to be able to live, work, learn and relax without fear of
prejudice, intolerance or harassment; to be part of our community, which respects and
defends freedom of thought, speech and belief, and which strives to protect its members
from any form of intimidation or violence.
You should be aware that there is in place between the University and the Guild
of Students a Code of Practice pursuant to the requirements of the Education Act
1994 (section 22(3)) regarding arrangements with the Guild on issues such as status,
accountability, constitution, charitable requirements, freedom of speech, membership,
finances, external affiliations and complaints procedures.
The University has a Freedom of Speech Code of Practice, details of which can
be found at www.as.bham.ac.uk/code/fos.pdf
Equality and diversity

The University is committed to ensuring and promoting good equality and diversity
practice. This means more than mere compliance with the equality legislation.
It means:
p Ensuring that you are treated fairly and with respect

p Acknowledging people’s difference and individuality
p Celebrating cultural diversity
p Supporting individual and group needs
p Having zero tolerance for any act of unfair discrimination and harassment
How does the University work towards achieving these aims?
Equality and diversity statement

p We aim to make sure all students feel included in the University experience and have
the necessary information to make positive choices and contributions to student life.
p We work with the Guild of Students to stage events that celebrate diversity such
as a multicultural week.
We encourage you to let us know if you have particular support needs. Remember,
p
always ensure that you disclose any issue to us which might hinder your successful
progression on your chosen programme. You can tell us at any time and your
disclosure will be treated in confidence. Further information on our race, gender
and disability equality policies can be found on the website.
p We monitor student admissions, programme experience, retention and destinations
by the equality strands of disability, race/ethnicity and gender.
We impact-assess our policies and procedures to ensure no one is treated adversely
p
because of them. Currently, we are working on a timetable to ensure this process
is systematically approached. The results of these assessments will also be available
on our website.
p We work with local community groups to ensure inclusiveness and representation.
p We publish a diversity newsletter showcasing how we challenge stereotypes and
celebrate difference.
p We encourage you to participate or join one of our Guild groups outlined
on pages 28–33.
p We encourage you to tell us what you think and inform change.
Equality and Diversity Adviser (students)

Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 3247
Email: equality@contacts.bham.ac.uk
www.equality.bham.ac.uk
Equal opportunities
The University’s commitment to equal opportunities is laid down in its Charter as follows:
Section 13: No discrimination on the grounds of political opinion, age, colour, disability,
ethnic or national origin, gender, marital status, race, religion or sexual orientation shall
be exercised by the University in the admission of students, or the appointment or
promotion of staff, or the awarding of any Degree, Diploma or Certificate, or, generally,
in the execution of any of its Objects as laid down by the Charter.
Harassment
We believe that harassment pollutes the working and learning environment and has a
detrimental effect upon wellbeing, health, confidence, morale and performance of those
directly affected by such behaviour or who are witness to it. We are committed to creating
a working and learning environment free from harassment and discrimination in which all
staff, students and visitors to the University are treated with dignity and respect. Staff or
students who harass others, whether employees, students or visitors to the University,
will be subject to investigation which may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal or
expulsion. Harassment on racial or sexual grounds, or on the grounds of disability, may also
be unlawful and those who harass others on such grounds may be subject to prosecution.
Further details can be found in the University’s Harassment and Bullying Policy, including
the definition of harassment, behaviours which may be considered harassment, as well
as the procedures for addressing harassment. If you think that you may have been subject
to harassment, or if you have been accused of harassment, you may need support and
advice – the Harassment Advisers Service is recommended as the first source of support
and advice for anyone who believes they are being subjected to harassment. The
Harassment Advisers Service is also able to offer support and advice to any person
involved in an allegation of harassment.
Health and safety

We are committed to providing you with a safe and healthy environment in which to live
and study. You may have additional needs with regard to safe evacuation from buildings
for which a personal emergency evacuation plan (PEEP) may need to be developed.
If you have any concerns you should first contact your supervisor or tutor.
We all have health and safety responsibilities, and a responsibility to not act in such
a way as to endanger yourself or others. The University’s Health and Safety Unit maintains
an extensive website which sets out specific health and safety policies and guidance
and gives a wide range of advice and information.
As a minimum, you should read the ‘General Guidance’ notes on the Health and Safety
website, where you may also find some of the ‘frequently asked questions’ useful. The
Health and Safety Unit can be also contacted for advice on specialised matters.
Learn more
www.hsu.bham.ac.uk
www.intranet.bham.ac.uk/university/hsu/safety/policy.shtml
www.intranet.bham.ac.uk/university/hsu/faq.shtml
www.intranet.bham.ac.uk/university/hsu/advice.shtml
Student Charter
The Student Charter outlines your rights

and responsibilities as a student and acts
as a signpost to all the information you may
require as a student. The Student Charter
has been developed by the University
and the Guild of Students and is a clear
statement of intention and expectation.
All students are responsible for:

p Making the most of their programme of study, their university
experience and the other opportunities that the University has to offer
p Complying with the University’s policies and procedures
p Acting as responsible ambassadors for the University through their good
conduct and by ensuring that their actions do not have an adverse impact on
the University’s reputation, its environment, the local community or those who
work or study at the University
p Engaging with the University in formulating their own education and career goals
and in monitoring their progress towards these goals
p Participating in the University’s culture of learning which is based upon critical inquiry,
debate and self-motivation
p Pursuing their academic studies in a diligent, honest and professional manner
All students are entitled to:

p Learn within a framework that facilitates enquiry-based learning and helps them
achieve the learning outcomes of their programme of study
p Be treated with respect and tolerance in an environment in which academic goals
may be pursued without fear or intimidation
p Have access to appropriate learning resources and support so that they can take
responsibility for their own learning, and improve their knowledge, understanding,
skills and competencies
p Receive effective and timely feedback on their academic work
p Be a member of a university that strives to provide a safe and healthy place in which
to work and study and which considers the impact of its activities on the environment
and on the local community
p Have access to professional welfare services which are designed to support students
who are experiencing difficulties that impede their study
p Receive clear information on tuition and accommodation fees and advice if applying
for student loans, access to learning funds or other student funding
p Be informed of, and have an opportunity to comment on, developments in the
University and the Guild of Students as well as matters that specifically affect
their programme of study and the services that they use
p Be represented by the Guild and be able to participate in its democratic processes
and make use of its services and facilities
Learn more
www.studentcharter.bham.ac.uk
Support services
Academic and
Student Administration 18
Student Funding Office 20
Counselling and Guidance 20
Students with disabilities and
specific learning difficulties 21
Mental wellbeing 22
Accommodation Services 23
International Student
Advisory Service (ISAS) 23
The new points-based
immigration system: information
for visa-national students 24
English language support
for international students 28
Guild of Students 28
Health care 33
Dental care 34
Meningitis 34
Drug and alcohol policy 34
Nursery 35
Chaplaincy 35
Academic and Student Administration

The Academic and Student Administration (ASA) Division co-ordinates University-wide,
student-related activities, and is a central point of contact for student advice and
academic committees.
Services provided are:
p Student Records – as well as liaising with the appropriate member of staff in
your school, it will be necessary to consult or inform the relevant student records
team for the following reasons:
– If you need to change personal details such as your name
– If you wish to change module choices, transfer to another programme of study
or withdraw from the University (whether temporarily or permanently)
– For transcripts and statements about your programme of study
Any changes to contact details should be submitted online via the student
portal www.my.bham.ac.uk
p Examinations and Congregations – co-ordinates the University’s Examinations
and degree congregations
p Student Conduct and Appeals – manages procedures and processes concerning
primary appeals, senate review, discipline, fitness to practise, plagiarism, examination
irregularities and grievances to Council
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/sca
ASA enquiry services

A counter service is available for queries regarding:
p Council Tax exemption certificates
p Payments for charges other than tuition/accommodation fees
(eg, discipline fines and replacement certificates)
p Proof of registration letters (including letters to open bank accounts)
p New and replacement University identity cards
p Statements and transcripts
p Collection and receipt of Access to Learning Fund forms
p Collection and receipt of forms and information for all ASA teams
(eg, research thesis submission, requests for changes to module registration
and student room bookings)
p Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) request forms for visa students
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/faq
Academic and Student Administration
Support services
Edgbaston campus, C Block, Aston Webb Building
Opening hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 9.00am–5.30pm
Wednesday: 9.30am–5.30pm
Friday: 9.00am–5.00pm
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 3091
Undergraduate Student Records Team

Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 6790
Fax: +44 (0)121 414 7927
Email: UGRecords@contacts.bham.ac.uk
www.as.bham.ac.uk/ugrecords
Postgraduate Taught, CPD and Collaborative Student Records Team

Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 2765
Fax: +44 (0)121 414 7927
Email: PGTRecords@contacts.bham.ac.uk
www.as.bham.ac.uk/pgtrecords
Doctoral Research Student Administration Team

Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 2588
Fax: +44 (0)121 414 7927
Email: PGRStudentrecords@contacts.bham.ac.uk
www.as.bham.ac.uk/pgrhome
Examinations and Congregations Office

For examination queries please contact:
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 3814
Email: exams@contacts.bham.ac.uk
www.as.bham.ac.uk/exams
For degree congregation queries please contact:

Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 7174
Email: graduation@contacts.bham.ac.uk
www.as.bham.ac.uk/graduation
Student Conduct and Appeals

Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 7684
Fax: +44 (0)121 414 3689
Email: appeals@contacts.bham.ac.uk conduct@contacts.bham.ac.uk
www.as.bham.ac.uk/sca
Student Funding Office

The Student Funding Office manages both University and external funding for students, including
government support schemes, scholarships, bursaries, prizes and the Access to Learning Fund
(ALF). The Office works closely with Academic and Student Administration, Student Support
and Development Services, the Finance Office and the Advice and Representation Centre
(ARC) in the Guild of Students, providing financial support and advice to applicants, parents,
students and staff.
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 7391

Fax: +44 (0)121 414 6637
Email: financialsupport@bham.ac.uk
www.as.bham.ac.uk/funding
www.moneymatters.bham.ac.uk
Counselling and Guidance

The Counselling and Guidance Service complements the support and guidance systems
within schools and colleges. The Service offers specialist help and confidential counselling
if you are experiencing practical welfare, emotional, psychological or educational problems.
Counselling is an opportunity to talk to someone impartial who will help you explore any
thoughts, feelings and behaviours that are causing you problems. For some, counselling
may also provide a form of support during a difficult period. There is a well-stocked resource
centre which offers a range of self-help material. The service also offers an online self
help programme called ‘CalmYou’. It is completely anonymous and available at any time.
The service also provides an online forum, Q-Chat, for students to discuss issues around
sexuality and gender.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/calmyou
www.as.bham.ac.uk/counselling
Referrals to Counselling and Guidance are accepted from:

p The GP (Doctor) with whom you are registered
p Tutors
p Other campus welfare agencies
We encourage self-referral and the majority of service users do self-refer.

Counselling and Guidance
Support services
3 Elms Road (green zone G4 on campus map)
Opening hours – Term-time

Monday–Friday: 9.00am–5.00pm
(Monday and Thursday evenings until 8.00pm for pre-booked appointments only)
Vacations
Monday–Friday: 9.00am–12.30pm and 1.30–5.00pm
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 5130
Students with disabilities, including specific learning

difficulties, mental health and other health conditions
We welcome students with disabilities. We realise that many students, especially
those with specific learning difficulties (SpLDs) including dyslexia and dyspraxia or mental
health conditions, do not regard themselves as ‘disabled’. However, we feel it is important
that you are aware of support that could be arranged for you should you need it. Similar
support is available for students with mental health conditions – see ‘Mental wellbeing’,
page 22.
Many students ask whether they should tell the University they have a disability (including
specific learning difficulties, mental health and other health conditions). You may have
a visible impairment but feel unhappy about putting personal or medical details on your
application, or you may have a hidden condition and feel that it will not affect your ability
to do a particular course.
We positively encourage you to tell us that you are disabled at any point during your time
at the University. We suggest you tell your supervisor or tutor in the first instance. You can
also talk to a member of the Disability and Learning Support Service. If you are in receipt
of Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSA), please tell us so we can better support you.
When applying for a programme with fitness to practise criteria (eg, medicine), or when
completing a health questionnaire, you could risk losing your place if you are not honest
about a disability.
The Disability and Learning Support Service provides a range of services for students.
We offer a completely confidential service and may be able to arrange the following:
p Individual student consultations
p Provision of a Student Support Agreement
p Specialist advice on assistive software and equipment and accessible formats
p Loan of assistive equipment
p Screening if you think you may be dyslexic or dyspraxic
p Study skills advice
p Non-medical helper scheme to provide student note takers, readers and mentors
p Workshops, for example, on exams or wellbeing
p Advice on application for the Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSA)
p Information leaflets, mobility and Braille maps
p Email distribution lists to keep you up-to-date with service developments
p Liaison with your tutors to help arrange, for example, accessible course materials
and exam accommodations where appropriate
p Liaison with other University staff, such as Accommodation Services
p Liaison with outside agencies such as health, social services, and the voluntary sector
Disability and Learning Support Service

3 Elms Road, (building G4 on the University map)
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 5130
Email: disability@bham.ac.uk
www.as.bham.ac.uk/disability
Mental wellbeing
Your time at university is often said to be the best years of your life. However, for
some students it can at times become difficult. This can arise from the exacerbation of
an existing mental health difficulty, or as a result of a situation in which you find yourself.
A range of support services are available to help you succeed on your course. The Mental
Health Advisers have a wealth of experience. They will work with you to produce a Student
Support Agreement, advise on and liaise with internal and external agencies, and will
help plan your own responses to stress triggers and managing crisis/relapse situations.
It is advisable that you let the University know as soon as possible, if you are currently
managing or have previously managed a mental health difficulty, or are worried about
your wellbeing. You are advised to register with a local GP at the earliest opportunity.
This will often be the quickest route to accessing specialist services if necessary.
Support services
Mental Health Advisory Service
3 Elms Road (green zone G4 on campus map), Edgbaston, Birmingham
Email: Mentalhealth@contacts.bham.ac.uk
www.as.bham.ac.uk/mentalhealth
Accommodation Services
Experienced and knowledgeable staff can advise and assist you with your housing
enquiries, whether you are looking to apply for University-owned and managed or
privately-owned accommodation, require advice with a tenancy agreement, are
looking for a transfer or need to report problems with repairs.
In terms of University accommodation, every effort is made to meet your accommodation

preference. If we are unable to offer the accommodation of your choice you will have
the opportunity to request a transfer to alternative University accommodation at any
time throughout your stay; this does not include third party providers accommodation
via nomination agreements.
Accommodation Services staff based in LIVING on campus and on the residential sites
are there to provide help and advice, so please feel free to make the most of their skills,
knowledge and support. Resident student mentors are also available if you have any
queries or concerns about University life.
Accommodation Services @ LIVING

University Centre
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 8000
www.accommodation.bham.ac.uk
International Student Advisory Service (ISAS)

The International Student Advisory Service (ISAS) provides a range of advice
and support to international students and EEA nationals, who are registered with the
University or in the process of applying for a course or exchange programme. ISAS also
offers advice to students’ dependants, and members of University staff who work with
international students. Advice is offered free of charge and without discrimination.
There is an extensive website and suite of information guides, covering a wide range of
topics affecting international students. We offer an information service at our reception
desk and confidential one-to-one appointments with an adviser for urgent cases. We
publish a termly newsletter and communicate regularly with the international student
community via the email messaging service ‘Interlink’.
The new points-based immigration system:

information for visa-national students
Under the new points-based immigration system, the University of Birmingham has legal
responsibilities towards the UK Border Agency in relation to all visa-national students who
study here.
The University is required to keep:

p Copies of each student’s passport and UK immigration status document
p Each student’s contact details, including UK residential address and
telephone number, and address in their home country
p A copy of the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance
certificate, where applicable
The University is required to report to UK Border Agency:

p If a student does not enrol on their programme in a timely fashion, in most cases within
two weeks of the start date of their programme.
p If a student fails to show Reasonable Diligence and is withdrawn from the University,
as a result of insufficient academic progress and/or poor attendance – the Code of
Practice on Reasonable Diligence is available here www.as.bham.ac.uk/code/rd.pdf
p If a student temporarily discontinues their studies due to taking an authorised Leave of
Absence. Student visas are not valid for these periods of interruption, and students will
be required to leave the UK and then submit a new Tier 4 (student) visa application in
order to be able to return to the UK and resume their studies at the end of their Leave
of Absence. Students are strongly recommended to contact the International Students
Advisory Service (ISAS) for advice about this.
p If a student is excluded from the University for any other reason than given above,
eg, for non-payment of fees.
p If the duration of a student’s programme shortens.
p Any information which suggests that a student is breaching the conditions of their
leave to remain within the UK.
For new students coming to the University of Birmingham, a Confirmation of Acceptance

for Studies (CAS) will be issued, by email, to applicants once they have unconditionally
accepted their offer to study at the University.
A CAS is a unique reference number that is now required for all new and extending Tier 4
Support services
(student) visa applications.
Students needing a CAS to extend their leave to remain in the UK, will need to complete
a CAS request form, available from the Enquiry Services Desk in C Block of the Aston
Webb Building. Students should ideally begin this process three months before their
current visa expires.
Students who wish to change institution need to receive permission from the UK Border
Agency before starting their studies at a different institution. A new Tier 4 application must
be submitted and approved prior to being able to move to a new sponsor. This may cause
difficulties for students being able to maintain their studies within their original timeframe,
and we therefore recommend that students considering such a move seek advice from
the International Students Advisory Service (ISAS), in the Aston Webb Building, prior
to making a final decision.
Students wishing to change programme within the University do not need to seek
permission from the UK Border Agency, but the University will update the UKBA on
the change and if the new programme is shorter, the student’s leave to remain in the
UK will be amended accordingly.
Student Visa Extension Applications

The International Student Advisory Service (ISAS) is here to advise you on the student
visa application process and is the only department within the University qualified to
provide immigration advice.
The University strongly recommends that you use ISAS’s services when making your
student visa extension application.
You should start preparing your student visa extension application three months
before your current visa expires. This allows time to collate all supporting documents,
complete the long application form and book an appointment to see an International
Student Adviser.
ISAS can send your application to the UKBA on your behalf if you use the ‘Batch
Scheme’. The Batch Scheme is the safest and most reliable way of submitting your visa
extension application. To use the Batch Scheme you must have prepared your application
completely and in advance.
Learn more
For more details on the Student Visa Guide, visit www.as.bham.ac.uk/batch
Immigration Advice and Services

The ISAS advisers are qualified to offer immigration advice and services relating to
specific immigration categories including: visitors, student visitors, students, student
dependants, postgraduate medical and dental students, domestic workers, EEA nationals,
and non-EEA family members and offer annual workshops on Post Study Work visas.
The ISAS advisers are the only University personnel who are authorised to give any
form of immigration advice and are regulated by the Immigration Services Commissioner.
ISAS advisers are expected to comply with the Office of the Immigration Services
Commissioner (OISC) Code of Standards, the OISC Guidance on Competence and
the Association of International Student Advisers (AISA)/UK Council for International
Student Affairs (UKCISA) Code of Ethics for those advising international students.
Welcome International
In order to help new international students settle into life in Birmingham, we run
an orientation programme called Welcome International. Over the weekend prior to
Welcome International, we organise an airport collection service from specific airports.
In a recent survey 93% of students said they would recommend Welcome International
to other students.
Bringing your family to the UK

We offer information and advice on how to apply for visas for family members and can
also provide information to assist families upon their arrival. This information covers areas
such as childcare, health care, education and working in the UK. The comprehensive ISAS
guide ‘Bringing your family to the UK’ contains all of this key information.
Finance
We can advise prospective students of the cost of living in the UK and provide information
on sources of funding and scholarships and offer advice in the case of financial difficulty.
ISAS advisers can also help students clarify tuition fee status and eligibility for
student support.
Working in the UK
Support services
We offer five ISAS briefing sessions on ‘Working in the UK after your studies’ during
the academic year. For more information about these briefings please refer to the
ISAS website.
Living in the UK
We provide a range of support and information to help international students settle into
Birmingham and university life. This includes how to open a bank account, registering
with the police, registering with a doctor, and other useful information.
Email Advice Service

If after visiting our website and using our information guides you still require further
information, you can email us and an advisor will respond to your query. Advisors check
emails on a regular basis therefore you should receive a response relatively quickly.
Please email isas@contacts.bham.ac.uk
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/international
How to contact ISAS

International Students Advisory Service (ISAS)
Student Support and Development
1st Floor, C Block
Aston Webb Building, University of Birmingham,
Edgbaston, Birmingham,
B15 2TT, United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 8464

Fax: +44 (0)121 414 3850
Email: isas@contacts.ac.uk
Opening hours
Monday–Thursday: 9.00am–5.00pm
Tuesday: 11.00am–5.00pm
English language support for international students

All international students are welcome to attend the free English classes held in term
time by EISU (English for International Students Unit). These classes cover topics like
academic English, speaking, listening and reading skills, grammar and thesis writing.
EISU staff also offer free individual tutorials to help you improve your written English.
EISU also organise day trips to places of historic and cultural interest like Oxford,
York and Bath.
Learn more
www.eisu.bham.ac.uk
Westmere (G15 on the University map)

Edgbaston Park Road
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 5697
Email: Gail Horton: p.g.horton@bham.ac.uk
Guild of Students
Welcome to the Guild of Students – your Students’ Union!
Every student at the University of Birmingham is automatically a member of the Guild of
Students. Being a member means that you are entitled to a wealth of benefits; support,
advice, entertainment, training and a whole range of opportunities. Most importantly, your
membership is the key to making sure that the University focuses on one area – students.
The Guild represents all students to the University and the world beyond, which means
when you’ve got a problem, or you want to change something or make it better, there
will always be a team of 28,000 people standing shoulder to shoulder with you.
How does the Guild work?

The most important thing to remember about the Guild is that any student at the
University of Birmingham can bring about change. Any student can make change by
voting for what they believe in, via an election or University-wide ballot (otherwise known
as a referendum). Any student can submit a motion to Guild Council whether they are an
elected councillor or not, and any student can contact a member of the Officer Team to
ask them to represent their views to the University, local community or the government.
Guild Council
Every student is primarily represented by their Guild Councillors, who meet eight times
a year to discuss proposals by Guild members. The motions that are passed are given
to the Officer Team to take action. Meetings are open to all students and are advertised
on www.guildofstudents.com
The Officer Team
Support services
The Officer Team is voted in by you, every year in March. The Team is made up of 18
officers; seven full-time officers (sabbatical officers) who take a year out of their studies
to work full-time at the Guild, and 11 part-time officers (non-sabbatical officers) who fulfil
their roles alongside their studies for a year.
Each Officer has a different role, which is listed below, and it is their role to take the Guild
forward in their specific area to improve the student experience.
Sabbatical Officers
p President
p Vice President Democracy and Resources (VPDR)
p Vice President Education and Access (VPEA)
p Vice President Housing and Community (VPHC)
p Vice President Sport (VPS)
p Vice President Student Activities and Development (VPSAD)
p Vice President Welfare (VPW)
Non-Sabbatical Officers
p Anti Racism and Anti Fascism Officer
p Ethnic Minority Officer
p Community Action Officer
p Disabled Students Officer
p Ethical and Environmental Officer
p Home Students Officer
p International Students Officer
p Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Students (LGBTQ) Officer
p Satellite Sites Officer
p Womens Officer
p Postgraduate and Mature Students Officer
The Guild and NUS (National Union of Students)

The Guild of Students is an affiliate to the National Union of Students (NUS). The NUS
is a federation of students’ unions around the UK and it represents 98% of all students.
Its member unions represent about 5 million students, and it is the Guild that is a member
of the NUS, not Birmingham students themselves. This strength means that the NUS can
speak to government, the press and students with confidence and credibility about the
issues that students face today.
The NUS has had significant victories. It was the leading force which won exemption from
Council Tax for students. Without the NUS our lives would be much more expensive, and
this would make coming to university even more dependent on how much you have and
not how much you know.
As the Guild is a member of NUS, all members of the Guild are entitled to a NUS Extra
card. The NUS Extra card is a discount card owned by NUS which is available exclusively
to students at a cost of £10, offering national benefits. The NUS is the largest student
organisation in Europe. With this weight behind each and every student, we can make
real change to student life and beyond with the Officer Team being supported and
trained by national experts.
Why do you need representation?

Whatever the circumstances, at some point during your time at University, you will wish
that something was different or could be changed. It might be in the face of a negative
situation – maybe you don’t have access to the resources you need to perform at your
best on your course or maybe your accommodation is not what you expected. It could also
be because of something incredibly positive – you have a great idea for how to improve
life for yourself and others, or you have a particular talent and want to find an outlet for it.
If you have strong student representation, you have access to a clearly defined channel
through which you can initiate change, and those who represent you can find the most
effective way to turn your thoughts into action. All members therefore have a single
unified voice, which is far stronger than everyone acting individually.
Guild membership benefits and services

As a member of the Guild, there are a range of benefits available to you. These range
from our welfare services such as the Advice and Representation Centre (ARC) to
entertainment and societies.
Advice and Representation Centre (ARC)

The ARC is a professional, peer-led service offering advice and help on issues
that students face. The ARC is able to advise on financial issues, housing problems,
immigration questions and academic queries and has a wealth of information to help
and support Guild members.
As a Guild member you can come to the ARC for advice and help on anything during
your time at University. So if you need directions, you’re unsure about renting a house,
having problems with a landlord, struggling with finances or an academic issue or if you
just want local transport information – the ARC is there to help when you need it, however
big or small the issue or query is.
The Job Zone
Support services
The Guild’s Job Zone is the student employment service available to all Guild members,
offering access to hundreds of part-time and temporary vacancies, employment
information and advice.
All jobs advertised at the Job Zone are student friendly, meaning employers understand
University commitments enabling you to select jobs that can fit around your timetable and
studies. The Job Zone provides information about employment issues, and offers drop-in
sessions covering various issues such as tax advice, help with your CV and help from a
local job centre advisor. They also hold recruitment days and Guild Job Fairs throughout
the year. This gives you the opportunity to meet various employers who come to the Guild
to recruit University of Birmingham students for part-time work.
Community Warden Scheme

The Guild’s Community Warden Scheme helps address issues particular to Selly Oak.
Working closely with other local agencies, it aims to improve the environment, appearance
and safety of the area so that student and non-student residents feel a sense of
community and pride in the area and live happily and healthily alongside one another.
As a student living in Selly Oak, you benefit from this scheme by having a team of Student
Community Wardens who work actively in the area to make it a better place to live. The
Wardens can provide information about issues that may well affect you.
Student Mentor Scheme

The Student Mentor Scheme is the Guild’s welfare support system in University
accommodation. Student Mentors provide a friendly face to help you settle into
student life and deal with the challenges that university life can bring.
Student Mentors are students who live in residences and are employed to provide welfare
support to fellow students. Every student in University accommodation has a Mentor. Your
Mentor will visit you every few weeks and drop by to see how you are getting on. Whether
you’ve got a problem with flat mates, financial worries, academic concerns or just need
someone to listen, you can call upon your Mentor. A Mentor is also on call every evening
in term-time in the event of a welfare problem. Mentors are fully-trained, and are supported
by a team of professional staff.
Student groups, societies and associations

As a member of the Guild you have access to over 190 student groups, societies and
associations. So whether you want to meet new people, continue a hobby or skill, learn
something new or just get involved in student life – there is a group for everyone. With
groups such as Burn FM (the Guild’s Radio Station), the Guild Theatre Group and
Paintball Society to name but a few – there are a range of opportunities for you to get
involved. A list of all our groups is available via www.guildofstudents.com
By being in a student group, you will also benefit by receiving full support from the Guild
– you will have access to all the information you need, guidance from a fully-trained and
experienced support team and opportunities to attend free training and development
sessions. Being in a student group offers you more than just the activity of the group –
it also helps you develop new skills, something that employers are always keen to see
on your CV.
Volunteering
There are many different things to do and learn whilst volunteering at the Guild. With over
200 volunteering opportunities for you to choose from, you can get involved in a whole
range of areas varying from teaching local children sports to teaching English in Cambodia,
being an admin assistant to helping organise events, working in your local community to
working for a national charity – there really is something to suit everyone’s interests and
availability. You can volunteer with people of all ages and backgrounds; children, teenagers,
adults, the elderly, refugees, asylum seekers, the homeless and people with disabilities or
learning difficulties. Projects include mentoring, sports coaching, teaching, running a play
scheme, fundraising, marketing and publicity, IT and website support, and conservation
amongst many others. For a full menu of opportunity, check out the Guild website.
Student Reps
Student Reps are student academic representatives. Student Reps focus on the standard
of education delivered by the University, and they play a vital role in ensuring your education
is everything it should be. They ensure that your views on your academic experience at
University are voiced and acted upon. Student Rep elections will be scheduled by your
school for the start of the first term. You should strongly consider standing, and at the
very least, make sure you vote.
Entertainments
Members also get to take advantage of the social side of being at University. The
Guild understands that everyone has different tastes and puts on a variety of regular
entertainments evenings such as jazz and comedy nights. The Guild has previously put
on entertainments evenings which have seen the likes of The Automatic and The Fratellis
perform, and there have also been evenings featuring celebrities from favourite shows,
such as Karl Kennedy from Neighbours. The Guild also puts on large-scale events such as
the Freshers’ Ball, Guild Awards, end of term parties, Postgraduate Valentine’s Ball and
Grad Ball amongst others. As a member you can benefit from the great prices that the
Guild offers plus the added benefit of knowing you are going out in a safe and secure
environment, where staff really care about student safety.
Shopping
Support services
Inside the walls of the Guild building, there are a range of retail outlets specially selected
to cater for students. Zest is your first port of call for any University and Guild related
merchandise. The increasingly popular ‘University branded hoodie’ has become an
essential, while stationery, gifts and souvenirs are also available featuring the prestigious
University of Birmingham crest. Also in the Guild is a Spar shop, a branch of STA Travel
and Subway. SHAC, a letting agent for students wanting to live locally in private
accommodation, opened in December 2009. The service charges no fees to student
tenants and only advertises accredited landlords who sign up to a code of standards,
guaranteeing the quality and condition of housing.
Learn more
www.guildofstudents.com
Useful Guild contact details

The ARC Job Zone
Telephone: +44 (0)121 251 2400 Telephone: +44 (0)121 251 2505
Email: thearc@guild.bham.ac.uk Email: jobzone@guild.bham.ac.uk
Nightline Student Mentor Scheme

Open: 6.00pm–8.00am Telephone: +44 (0)121 251 2395
Email: nightline@guild.bham.ac.uk Email: mentors@guild.bham.ac.uk
Student Groups, Societies and National Union of Students

Volunteering www.nus.org.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)121 251 2424
Email: volunteering@guild.bham.ac.uk
studentdevelopment@guild.bham.ac.uk
Health care
We strongly recommend that your register with a local doctor within two weeks of arrival
for the duration of your course. The NHS website can help you find medical practices
and dentists. Select either ‘GP’ or ‘dentist’ using your accommodation post code or –
alternatively – the University of Birmingham’s (B15 2TT).
Learn more
www.nhs.uk
Dental care
If you are 19 years of age or older you do not automatically receive free NHS dental
care. You may be eligible for an HC2 Certificate, which will entitle you to financial assistance
with NHS charges. You can apply for a HC2 Certificate by completing an HC1 form, which
is available from your dentist or Guild of Students. The application process normally takes
up to six weeks and is means-tested. Please note, the HC2 Certificate also entitles you to
free prescriptions and eye tests. It is only valid for six months and requires re-application after
that time. If you require dental care and have not got a HC2 Certificate yet, you must pay for
your NHS dental care. If you keep your receipts you can obtain a refund of your charges
when you receive your certificate. The Advice and Representation Centre at the Guild of
Students can give you further information.
Learn more
www.nhs.uk
Meningitis
All new undergraduate students should have received a meningitis C vaccination.
If you have not been vaccinated, you should ask your new GP to give you this vaccination.
All students up to the age of 24 should also request this vaccination from their GP if they
have not been vaccinated so far. ALL non-UK students should ask for the vaccination,
regardless of their age.
Drug and alcohol policy

The University recognises that alcohol and drugs will play a part in the lives of some
people and will be sympathetic to problems arising from misuse of these substances
whilst not condoning this, or breaches of the law. It also recognises the current national
focus on binge drinking, especially amongst 18–24 year olds, and the ensuing risks and
problems alcohol can cause to all students and staff. The University has a commitment
to enhancing the health and safety and wellbeing of students and recognises the risks
that may be caused by the misuse of alcohol, drugs and other substances. The University
in no way condones the misuse of drugs or alcohol, and will balance disciplinary action
with appropriate support for students who misuse them.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/policy/daa.pdf
Nursery
Support services
The University has two day nurseries: Elms Day Nursery (114-place nursery for children
aged six months to five years) situated adjacent to the main campus; and Oaks Day
Nursery (80-place nursery for children aged six months to five years) situated near the
Selly Oak shopping centre. The early years curriculum is informed by the requirements
of the Early Years Foundation Stage. It is based on children learning through play in an
organised learning environment, supported and encouraged by qualified staff. The day
nurseries have received good OFSTED reports and parents are welcome to visit the
day nurseries by appointment.
The Elms Day Nursery

33 Edgbaston Park Road, Birmingham, B15 2RS
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 8118
The Oaks Day Nursery

10 College Walk, Selly Oak, Birmingham, B29 6LQ
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 7999
Chaplaincy
Religion on campus
The University and its Guild of Students welcome staff and students from all religious
and spiritual backgrounds. The wide diversity of political, religious and spiritual beliefs
of our staff and students, and the differences in cultural and social backgrounds across
the University, give our community strength and vitality and help us to be challenged and
stimulated both intellectually and spiritually.
Multi-Faith Chaplaincy
The University Multi-Faith Chaplaincy is located at St Francis Hall (Building O2 on
the campus map) just behind the Guild of Students. The building is the centre for the
practice of the wide variety of religions represented on campus, and is the contact point
for any of the team of chaplains who are available to anyone seeking spiritual or pastoral
advice and support.
There is also a chapel on the Selly Oak campus, located just below the Rendezvous
Café. The chapel is open during the day for quiet prayer and reflection. It is available
for all students and staff, irrespective of religious faith and background.
Sharing Sanctuary
Sharing Sanctuary is a Chaplaincy initiative for international students of any age who leave
behind a situation of conflict in their home country. Every Tuesday in term-time, there is an
opportunity to socialise with people in a similar position in the Rosa Parks room (1st floor
of the Guild). Entry is free and all are welcome, whatever your faith traditions.
Learn more
www.chaplaincy.bham.ac.uk
Chaplaincy Administrator
Email: Margaret Healey Pollett: j.m.healeypollet@bham.ac.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 7000
Fax: +44 (0)121 414 7002
Full-time chaplains
Anglican Revd Nicholas +44 (0)121 414 8151
lo Polito n.lopolito@bham.ac.uk
Catholic Father Julian Green +44 (0)121 414 4395
j.c.green@bham.ac.uk
Sister Anna +44 (0)121 414 8150
O’Connor a.oconnor@bham.ac.uk
Methodist Revd Kara Cooper +44 (0)121 414 8153
k.cooper@bham.ac.uk
Jewish Rabbi Fishel Cohen +44 (0)121 414 8898
f.cohen@bham.ac.uk
Other recognised chaplains

Baptist Revd David Bird +44 (0)121 427 4794
davidbird106@msn.com
Buddhist Mr Keith Munnings +44 (0)7931 532006
keith@eskola.co.uk
Buddhist Phramaha +44 (0)121 414 7000
Laow Panyasiri ppanyasiri@yahoo.com
Christian Science Mr Brian +44 (0)121 68 4827
Weatherhogg brian.weatherhogg@blueyonder.co.uk
Elim Pentecostal Revd Maldwyn +44 (0)121 471 1133
Jones maldwyn@sellyelim.org
Hindu Dinesh Chauhan +44 (0)121 745 1079
dineshchauchan02@yahoo.com
Dr Rama +44 (0)7711 712708
Sarma Karri r.karri@bham.ac.uk
Indian Orthodox Fr John Varghese +44 (0)1905 763575
vargisjons@yahoo.co.uk
Jewish Progressive Rabbi Margaret +44 (0)121 643 3888
Jacobi rabbi@bpsjudaism.com
Lutherian Pastor John +44 (0)7941 501210
Evenson john_evenson@hotmail.com
Muslim Adviser Dr Aqil +44 (0)7811 197580
Chaudary aqilc@hotmail.com
Miss Taslim Rashid t.rashid@bham.ac.uk
Orthodox Christian Revd John Nankivell +44 (0)1922 633451
nankivell@tesco.net
The Society of Friends Chris Martin chrismartin2@btinternet.com
Anna Baker chimneypots2000@yahoo.co.uk
Unitarian Revd Simon +44 (0)121 243 1560
Ramsay
Money matters
Payment of tuition fees 40

Continuation fee for
doctoral researchers 40
Payment of residential
accommodation fees 40
Council Tax 41
Electoral roll 41
Student Finance England 42
Maintenance Grant 43
Additional financial support 43
Obtaining outside employment 45
Celebrating and recognising
achievement 45
International students 45
Payment of tuition fees

If you are paying your tuition fees direct to the University, we provide a range of payment
options. These allow you either to pay your fee in full before or at registration, or to spread
the cost over manageable instalments by direct debit.
p If you pay your tuition fees in full before or at registration, you will receive a discount
of 1.5% (applicable to certain payment options)
p You can pay by direct debit instalments over the duration of your course with each
annual fee being split over eight monthly instalments between October and May
p Alternatively, you may pay by three termly direct debit instalments in November,
February and May
Learn more
www.payments.bham.ac.uk
Continuation fee for doctoral researchers

Once you have completed your formal period of registration and transferred to writing-up
status, you will be required to pay a continuation fee in each academic year until such time
as your thesis is submitted. The continuation fee for the 2010–11 academic years will be
£125, and this will be reviewed for subsequent years. Information is available relating to
writing-up status and payment of the continuation fee.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/form/writingup.pdf
Payment of residential accommodation fees

Fees for University accommodation are payable in advance, unless you have chosen
to pay by direct debit instalments (number dependent upon terms of your contract). If
you have any queries regarding the payment options available, visit our website or the
Cashiers Counter within the Finance Office (ground floor, B Block, Aston Webb Building).
If you have any queries regarding the amount of the fee or your contract, please contact
the Accommodation Services@LIVING in University Centre.
Learn more
www.payments.bham.ac.uk
www.accommodation.bham.ac.uk
Council Tax
Money matters
If you live in University accommodation, or in a house where everyone is classed as a
full-time student for Council Tax purposes, you will be exempt from paying Council Tax.
The rules are different if you live with someone who’s not a full-time student – but your
household could still get a discount. Generally in a shared house (even where separate
tenancy agreements are in force) the presence of just one non-student renders the house
liable for 75% of the usual Council Tax for that band of property. How that is paid is for
agreement between the occupiers.
It is your responsibility to notify your local council that you are a full-time student and
reside in a property that is occupied only by students and that you wish to be considered
for Council Tax Exemption.
To notify your local council go to www.as.bham.ac.uk/counciltax. Download and print

off the self declaration form for Council Tax exemption purposes.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/counciltax
Electoral roll
The University will forward names of students in University-owned accommodation to
the electoral roll; this is a legal requirement. It is your responsibility, if you do not live in
University-owned accommodation, to ensure that you are registered on the electoral roll
in the location that you wish to vote.
Please note: if you are a student living away from home, you can register to vote at more
than one address. You can be registered where you live at home and at University. But
remember, you can only vote once in any single election.
Learn more
www.electoralcommission.org.uk
Student Finance England

Student Finance England is the service managed by the Student Loans Company (SLC)
in partnership with local authorities and the government. If you are a full-time student from
England you can use its secure system to help you work out the financial support you will
get, apply for finance online and keep track of your payments.
Learn more
www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance
If you want to talk to someone about student financial support, please call:
Student Finance England Customer Support Office
Telephone: 0845 300 50 90 (local call rate charges apply)
Opening hours
Saturday–Sunday: 9.00am–5.30pm
Financial support for students who normally reside in Scotland, Wales and Northern
Ireland can differ from what is available in England. You should therefore apply for
support to the agency that covers your relevant area.
There are a number of financial support packages available from the government
to assist you with the cost of higher education. The tuition fee at the University
of Birmingham for the academic year 2010–11 is £3,290.
The Student Loan Company support package includes the following:

Support for full-time UK and EU home students:
Tuition fee loan
A tuition fee loan enables students to borrow anything from a pound up to the cost of their
tuition (maximum of £3,290 for 2010–11) to pay their tuition fees. If your loan is approved
the money will be paid directly to the University.
Support for full-time UK students only:

Maintenance loan
More commonly referred to as the ‘student loan’, students can take out a loan to help
them cover their living expenses whilst at university. The loan is paid in three instalments
(normally one payment per term) directly into your account. All students can apply for
72% of the loan available and the additional 28% will be means-tested based on your
household income.
away from home parents home
Money matters
Maximum £4,950 £3,838
72% non income assessed £3,564 £2,763
28% income assessed £1,386 £1,075
Maintenance grant
The maintenance grant is a non-repayable award from the government to help support
students having to pay £3,290 tuition fees who are from lower income families. You can
apply for the grant at the same time as you apply for maintenance and tuition fee loans.
If your household income is below £25,000, you will receive a maximum grant of £2,906.
If your residual household income is between £25,001 and £50,020 you will receive a
partial grant.
Additional financial support

The Birmingham Grant
The Birmingham Grant offers additional support to all students whose household income
is £36,170 or less. From September 2010, you will receive a grant of £877 if you:
p Are a new, full-time undergraduate
p Are eligible to pay fees at the rate of £3,290
p Are living in the UK
p Have applied for financial assessment through your relevant SLC agency
p Have successfully achieved a place at the University
You do not need to apply for the Birmingham Grant. If you qualify, the University will notify
you of your award in writing.
Please note: You will need to have made an application for statutory support by 31 May
2010 in order to be awarded a Birmingham Grant and Scholarship. Regrettably, if the
University does not receive your financial details by this date no award can be made.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/birminghamgrant
You are advised to read the Terms and Conditions for this award which opens
as a separate document from this page.
The Birmingham Scholarship

The Birmingham Scholarship recognises the achievement of students from lower income
backgrounds who perform extremely well in their A levels or equivalent qualifications. You
will receive a Birmingham Scholarship if you:
p Meet the criteria for the award of a Birmingham Grant
p Achieve a minimum of AAB at A level, more than 34 points in the IB, or DDD in BTEC
Other examinations may be considered. Access Course applicants will not be eligible for
the purposes of this scholarship. Please note that the award of a scholarship is not based
on UCAS tariff points. Students who meet the criteria for a Birmingham Scholarship and
who successfully achieve a place at the University will be awarded £1,316 for each year
of study. Combined with the Birmingham Grant, this will give qualifying students £2,193
per year.
You do not need to apply for the Birmingham Scholarship. If you qualify, you will be
notified of your award in writing by the University.
Access to Learning Fund (ALF)

The Access to Learning Fund is provided to the University by the government to assist
home students (both full-time and part-time) who are facing financial hardship. Awards
are offered as grants and therefore do not have to be repaid. They are intended to assist
with living costs and are not provided to pay tuition fees. Undergraduate students must
have taken out the maximum student loan that they are eligible for before they can receive
an award. Students can apply at any time in the academic year but are encouraged to
apply before their personal financial circumstances become unmanageable. All
applications are means-tested and not all applications will be successful.
Learn more
For more information and an application form, please visit www.as.bham.ac.uk/alf
Obtaining outside employment
Money matters
We recognise that many students need to undertake paid employment in order to fund
their studies. It is your responsibility to determine the extent of any paid employment you
may wish to undertake. Job Zone, run by the Guild of Students in partnership with the
University Careers and Employability Centre, helps you find part-time work in the city, as
well as within the University. All jobs are checked to ensure they do not exceed 16 hours
per week. You are encouraged to discuss the appropriateness and extent of outside
employment with your academic tutor or supervisor.
Learn more
www.guildofstudents.com/jobshop
Celebrating and recognising achievement

Scholarships
The University of Birmingham recognises the achievement of students and offers
a number of scholarships including:
p Subject-based scholarships
p Music scholarships
p Sport scholarships
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/scholarships
International students
Scholarships
The University offers a number of scholarships to international students to assist
them with the cost of tuition and these are administered by the International Office.
For more details and an application form visit

The University is registered with the US Department of Education to participate in the

Direct Loan Program which enables American and Canadian students to take out US
loans to fund their studies.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/funding/uscananda
International Hardship Award

We would always advise students to make realistic financial provisions before beginning
their programme. However, even the most well prepared students may find themselves in
unexpected hardship at some point during their studies that they have not budgeted for.
The University aims to alleviate short-term, relatively minor financial hardship with the
provision of a one-off award or loan of between £100 and £1,000. Situations may vary
considerably and each award is considered on a case-by-case basis. The award is not
intended to cover tuition fees but may be used to assist with living costs. These are
limited funds and are not intended to address long-term or significant shortfalls.
You should make an appointment to discuss your situation with the International Student
Advisory Service (ISAS).
Contact and further information

International Student Advisory Service (ISAS),
first Floor, C Block, Aston Webb Building
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 8464

Fax: +44 (0)121 414 3850
Email: isas@contacts.bham.ac.uk
Student development
and study support
Learning at Birmingham 48
Tutorial arrangements 49
The University Graduate School 49
Your personal development
and career 50
Careers and employability 51
Computing services and facilities 54
Library Services 57
Guide to Effective Learning (GEL) 60
English language support 60
Learning at Birmingham
We welcome students who are keen to be challenged and eager to think for themselves.
We stimulate natural curiosity and enable original ideas to flourish through dialogue
and debate. At Birmingham learning is a conversation, not simply a lecture.
Our teaching and learning

We will facilitate your transition into our enquiry-based learning culture. This means
that you will experience a range of teaching methods and research strategies that
aim to challenge and encourage you to develop your own ideas, through reading and
independent research, discussion and collaboration with others, reflection and analysis.
Lectures are intended to give you food for thought. They are an opportunity to listen to
our academic staff sharing their knowledge and discoveries with you. You are expected
to build on this foundation by further reading around your subject and using your discovery
and analytical skills to critically evaluate the information you receive. Seminars and
supervisions offer you the opportunity to discuss and develop your ideas in small groups
and to listen to the ideas of others. Tutorials and supervisions may be in small groups
or on a one-to-one basis and they will allow you to reflect on your progress.
Self-motivation, setting yourself realistic goals, managing your time effectively, and the
ability to reflect on what and how you learn are all qualities and skills that will help you be
more successful. These independent and transferable learning skills are also highly valued
in today’s competitive and fast-changing job market.
You can begin to take control of your own learning now. Read our Guide to Effective
Learning at www.gel.bham.ac.uk
If you would like support to improve your learning skills speak to your tutor or supervisor
who will be able to advise you on the wide range of support available to you.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/lts
Pre-arrival/early induction
Student development and study support

We will try to ensure that your transition to university life is as smooth as possible.
We provide information to help you to prepare for your arrival, with checklists to enable
you to record some of the practical things that will help you to settle quickly into university
life. Make sure you attend your school/department welcome programme. You will receive
details of these directly from your school. This is your chance to learn more about your
programme of study and meet your lecturers and fellow students in your school, so
don’t miss it.
Visit the Welcome website to complete registration before you arrive, access a wide
range of helpful information and to view an up-to-date timetable of induction events.
Learn more
www.welcome.bham.ac.uk
Tutorial arrangements
Tutorial support arrangements are made within each school. You should be allocated
a personal tutor or supervisor (or equivalent) that is usually the first line of support
and guidance for students. All schools have appropriate mechanisms for monitoring
student progress. Regular meetings are held to review progress and to plan for your
future at University and beyond. A resource called >>Progress>> is made available to
you to assist in your development and will be progressively included within discussion
at progress review meetings.
Academic or personal matters may be discussed with the personal tutor, or with
any other member of school staff. If appropriate they may refer you to other University
services for their specialist help.
The University Graduate School

The University Graduate School brings together all doctoral researchers (all those
registered on a research degree eg, PhD, MPhil etc) registered at the University.
It supports and promotes the doctoral research community within and outside the
University. Led by the Director of the Graduate School, the University Graduate School
works closely with colleges sharing expertise in researcher development and delivery
of a range of events and activities for doctoral researchers throughout the year.
The University Graduate School’s aim is to ensure that doctoral researchers are equipped to
do the highest quality research during their time at Birmingham and have the skills needed
to pursue successful careers. They manage the doctoral researcher Skills Development
Programme and, by working closely with providers such as the Learning Development
Unit (LDU) and Academic Practice and Organisational Development (APOD), they
support and provide a diverse portfolio of skills training and development opportunities
at school, college and University levels.

The University Graduate School website acts as a hub of essential information for
doctoral researchers on a range of topics such as personal skills training, regulations,
the student representation system, careers support and activities for doctoral researchers
taking place throughout the University and the UK. The University Graduate School runs
induction courses for newly-arrived doctoral researchers and provides them with other
introductory information.

The University Graduate School reports directly to the Graduate School Management
Board, members of which include representatives of all colleges as well as service
providers and the doctoral researcher body.

The University Graduate School recognises that doctoral researchers form a diverse
community, not only because in some schools a high proportion are part-time and/or
mature doctoral researchers, but also because a significant proportion are from overseas.
The Postgraduate and Mature Students Association of the Guild and the International
Relations Office provide a range of activities that you may find useful.

In this way, all doctoral researchers should feel that they are a valued part of
the University community with a distinct voice and contribution to university life.

Learn more
www.graduateschool.bham.ac.uk
www.graduateschool.bham.ac.uk/skills
Your personal development and career

Careers and personal development
There is lots going on outside the lecture room and by getting more involved
you will lead a fuller life and develop a wide range of skills.
The wealth of opportunities that are on offer means that you can gain valuable
experience and improve your job prospects, even when enjoying yourself.
Stand out from the crowd

You will be one of thousands of graduates from UK universities, so you need to stand
out in an increasingly competitive job market. Employers are looking for students whose
experience and skills make them outshine everyone else. Within six months of completing
their studies 96% of our students are either employed, in further education or overseas.
So we know that a degree from Birmingham and the skills you will learn here will put you
in a strong position to compete for graduate jobs and higher level courses.
Your chances of getting what you really want will be enhanced by the depth to which
you research your options and plan and prepare while you are here. Birmingham offers
an enviable range of ways in which you can make yourself employable.
Careers and employability

The Careers and Employability Centre (CEC) can give you valuable help and support
in researching and choosing what you will do next. Information and advice is available
at any point during your studies.
Services include:
p A comprehensive range of online, reference and takeaway information to help you
research the options available to you. Use our resources to find out more about
career options, postgraduate study, and gap year activities.
p A range of practical workshops and talks to help you through each stage of your
career planning and job search process. These are run centrally or may be tailored
specifically for your school. Options include: career planning, making applications,
success at interviews and mock assessment centres.
p A comprehensive programme of events including recruitment fairs and employer
presentations and interactive sessions, designed to develop your work-related skills
such as teamwork, leadership and commercial awareness. You will also have the
opportunity to talk to employers face to face and increase your understanding of
different occupational sectors.
p Access to a great range of online vacancies for summer work and placements,
as well as permanent jobs for when you graduate, and help with making proactive
and speculative applications where these are more relevant.
p Individual advice and guidance on how to make effective applications for the options
you aspire to.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/careers
Career planning
Planning where you want your degree to take you is an important consideration, and
there’s no time better than your first year to start thinking about it. Remember how far
in advance of starting university you began researching your options and finding out
how to apply? The choices available to you after graduation are far broader and the
applications processes more varied. The requirements for a successful application
are usually much more diverse as well. For these reasons you need to allow plenty
of time for graduate career planning.
If you don’t yet have a strong sense of where your career is leading you, don’t feel anxious
about it, but do start researching opportunities and considering your options. This will
help you plan how you will gain the skills and experiences that will make you more
attractive to employers.
Work experience and placements

At Birmingham we encourage you to gain relevant and challenging work experience to
help prepare for your future career. As well as supporting you to find year placements,
the CEC can help you learn more about summer internships and part-time work
experience. We advertise both graduate and work experience opportunities through our
online vacancy database, and we work with a range of employers to create opportunities
for you. There are funding sources to support low paid or voluntary work experience.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/careers
Personal Skills Award (PSA)

Over 270,000 students graduate per year. Have you thought about how you will compete
in the job market?
Employers aim to recruit graduates with a broad portfolio of skills. Their advice is that
you will need to demonstrate that you have developed a wide range of personal skills at
university, such as communication, teamwork and the ability to work under pressure and
to think and learn independently. Initiatives such as our Personal Skills Award (PSA) help
you to achieve this breadth in your curriculum vitae.
The PSA programme develops your interpersonal and study skills. It is taught alongside

your main degree course and gives you new transferable skills that are essential in the
workplace. In addition to taking modules such as Project Management Skills, Presentation
Skills and Leadership and Teamwork Skills, you can also gain recognition for your work
experience, volunteering and sporting activities. The PSA is popular and places are
limited so apply early.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/psa
The Job Zone

Job Zone offers you access to hundreds of part-time job opportunities that will not
only earn you extra cash, but help you gain some valuable workplace skills – even
though the job may not be quite what you aim to do long term.
www.guildofstudents.com/jobshop
Volunteering
As well as being fun and worthwhile, voluntary work can give you relevant skills, insight
and experience of work roles that may be relevant to your long-term goals. The Guild
of Students organises a great range of voluntary activities.
www.guildofstudents.com/volunteering
Start your own venture

Entrepreneurship and Innovation (EI) supports student enterprise through its incubator
facilities, training, mentoring and seed-corn funding. If you are a student at the University,
there are lots of opportunities available to you to try out your ideas, learn about starting
a business and meet other like-minded people at EI.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/ei
Computing services and facilities

Username and password
You need your username and password to register for your course at the start of each
year. For new students this is provided in your registration pack. Once you have logged
in you should set up your Secret Passkey. This will allow you to use the self-service facility
to reset your password.
Learn more
https://biis.bham.ac.uk
You will need to register for your course online through the student portal (www.bham.ac.uk)
prior to the start of each academic year. If you need any assistance please contact the Web
Registration Helpline, open from July to October. Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 9009.
Using the internet in halls

Internet access from your University hall of residence is provided by an external company,
ASK4. You will be given a CD on arrival at your hall which tells you how to install the
correct software to access the internet from your room. You will also need an Ethernet
cable to connect your PC to the network, which you can purchase from ASK4 when you
move in, costing around £5.
Learn more
www.ask4.com/students/index
Wireless network
The University uses leading-edge technology to provide secure wireless network access
across the whole of the main Edgbaston campus. Wireless network access is also
available at other sites, including Selly Oak campus (Westhill), Shakespeare Institute,
Ironbridge Institute, Dental School and the Shackleton Halls of Residence.
Learn more
www.wireless.bham.ac.uk
my.bham

my.bham.ac.uk is the University’s portal, giving you a single point of access to information
and resources. Useful portal links include:
p Email
p eLibrary – your gateway to electronic information resources
p elearning environment
p Web CT – online course materials
p Campus news
Learn more
www.my.bham.ac.uk
Email and filestore

Your University email account will be ready after your initial registration, and your
personal mailbox can hold up to 100 megabytes of emails. You will also be allocated
100 megabytes of personal network file storage called the U: drive, which can be
accessed from most University public cluster PCs.
IT service desk
The IT service desk is based in the Main Library and is the single point of contact for all
your computing needs. Contact us for help if you have any computing related questions
and issues, or to report faults.
Telephone or call in person at the Main Library:

Monday
p to Thursday: 8.30am–9.30pm
p Friday: 8.30am–7.00pm
p Saturday and Sunday: 10.00am–6.00pm
Log a call via the Web at any time – 24/7

Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 7171 (NOT for web registration queries)
Web registration helpline: +44 (0)121 414 9009
For on line help and to log a call:

www.itservicedesk.bham.ac.uk
Computer regulations
All students are bound by the University’s computer regulations, and breaches of
these can constitute a disciplinary offence. These apply to all computer users and
to all computer equipment within or operated by the University. Included are regulations
on the use of email, downloading and copyright, hacking and viruses, offensive, indecent
and defamatory material and messages, use of specific systems, and security of
computer information.
Learn more
www.it.bham.ac.uk/policy
Computer facilities
There are dedicated computer facilities on campus for you to use. These include ten
computer clusters and four learning suites. Computer clusters share the same desktop
features and a wide range of software. Learning suites provide computers plus facilities
for group work with flexible seating arrangements, smartboards, plasma screens, screens
with overlays and cluster PCs.
Computer clusters
p Barnes Library
p European Resource Centre
p Learning Centre
p Main Library
p Mason Lounge
p Medical School West Cluster
p Orchard Learning Resource Centre
p Poynting Physics
p Sport and Exercise Science
p Strathcona
Learning suites
p Gisbert Kapp
p Chemical Engineering
p Nuffield Learning Centre
p Strathcona
Learn more
www.clusters.bham.ac.uk/clusterloc.shtml
Services for people with disabilities – assistive technology

Many of the computer clusters have a large monitor and at least one height-adjustable
desk. Assistive software is installed in almost all computer clusters, including those at
the Learning Centre, Main Library and Orchard Learning Resources Centre. This includes
screen magnification software, literacy and screen reading software.
Access to other software is dependant on individual needs and follows a referral to the
Disability or Learning Support Team. The software is available in the Assistive Technology
Booths in the Main Library and Orchard Learning Resources Centre and includes:
p Speaking scanning software and scanner
p Voice recognition software
p Braille translation software
p Braille embosser, Main Library
Support for assistive technology and access to the facilities can be requested from the
Assistive Technology Officer.
Learn more
www.clusters.bham.ac.uk/Assistive.shtml
Library Services
Libraries and subjects
There are ten subject-specific libraries based on the Edgbaston campus, Selly Oak
campus, Birmingham City Centre and Stratford-upon-Avon.
p Barber Fine Art Library
p Barber Music Library
p Barnes Library – Medicine, Biosciences, Nursing, Physiotherapy and Sports Science
p Education Library
p European Resource Centre – European languages, government and politics
p Harding Law Library
p Main Library
p Orchard Learning Resource Centre – Psychology, Philosophy, Religious Studies,
World Religions, Social Sciences and Humanities
p Ronald Cohen Dental Library – Dentistry and Biomaterials
p Shakespeare Institute Library
Opening hours and accessing buildings

Each library operates their own opening hours with controlled access systems which
you will need your University identity card to enter.
Learn more
www.library.bham.ac.uk/using/openinghours
Accessing resources
The library catalogue can be accessed both on and off the campus. It gives details of our
print and electronic resources. The eLibrary provides access to our electronic collections
including ejournals, databases and ebooks.
Learn more
http://libcat.bham.ac.uk
www.elibrary.bham.ac.uk
Library help
You can send the library an instant message (and receive an instant answer) using the
Just Ask! service available via my.bham or from the library web pages.
Learn more
www.library.bham.ac.uk/help/ask
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 5828
Services for people with disabilities

Library Services offers support to people with disabilities in a number of ways. You may
be entitled to use our book fetching services or to have books on loan for longer than
normal. We can also help by undertaking photocopying for you or providing you with
coloured copying paper if required. Please ask staff in the library you are using. All
our documents are available in accessible formats.
Learn more
www.library.bham.ac.uk/using/disabilities
Photocopying and printing

All of our libraries and resource centres have copying/printing facilities. Both printing
and photocopying are paid for by adding credit to your University identity card via terminals
located in:
p Barnes Library p Main Library

p Business School p Mason Lounge
p Chemical Engineering Learning Suite p Law Library
p Education Library p Learning Centre
p Electrical Engineering Learning Suite p Orchard Learning Resource Centre
p European Resource Centre p Sport and Exercise Science
p Strathcona
Subject support
Professionally qualified and experienced specialist subject staff are available to give help,
advice, training, support and documentation to students and staff undertaking research,
project work, essays and/or dissertations enabling you to make the most effective use of
the information resources available. Support is provided via individual information clinics
as well as open and bespoke training programmes.
We provide a comprehensive series of publications to help you in your research, these

are available at libraries and resource centres and on the Library Services website.
In addition to guides to particular libraries, there are subject and database guides
to help you to identify useful information sources.
Learn more
www.library.bham.ac.uk/searching/subjectsupport
www.library.bham.ac.uk/searching/guides
Training
Training and development opportunities are available in the areas of Information
Technology and Information and Research Skills. Courses available range from Microsoft
Office applications to statistical and reference software. These can be delivered either
through face to face training courses, blended courses or from the Institutional Virtual
Learning Environment (IVLE).
Learn more
www.skills.bham.ac.uk
Guide to Effective Learning (GEL)

The ability to study effectively is a skill that many students and lecturers take for granted.
However, research shows that regardless of the qualifications obtained at school or
college, students perform better at university if they have well developed study skills.
GEL aims to help you develop study skills and covers a range of areas such as:
p Essay writing
p Examination preparation
p Oral presentations
p How to get the most out of your lectures
Learn more
www.gel.bham.ac.uk
English language support

The English for International Students Unit (EISU) provides free English language support
to international students and visiting scholars. This is delivered via free lunchtime classes
in term-time and individual help which is available all year round on an appointment basis.
International students are also welcome to come to Westmere at any time during the year
if they would like advice about any aspect of their English.
Learn more
www.eisu.bham.ac.uk
Contact
Westmere (G15 on the University map)
Edgbaston Park Road
Telephone: +44 (0) 121 414 5697
Examination and assessment
Examination dates and procedures 62

Mitigations 65
Medical certificates for illness during
examinations and other times 66
Appeals 67
Doctoral researchers: thesis
submission and examination 68
Statements and transcripts 68
Examination dates and procedures

The main summer examinations
The main summer examinations for 2010–11 will be held between Monday 16 May
and Friday 10 June 2011 (including Saturday examinations). You must ensure that
you are available for the entire four-week main summer examination period. You will
be notified by your college of any examinations falling outside this period.
Provisional examination timetable

Your provisional examination timetable for the main summer examination period will
be available from the Student Portal at the end of the Spring Term. The provisional
examination timetable allows you to check that you have been correctly registered for
each of your modules, and that the examinations for these modules have been scheduled.
Please note that the provisional timetable will change, therefore you should wait
for the final examination timetable before confirming your examination dates,
times and venues.
Final examination timetable

Your final examination timetable for the main summer examination period will be available
from the Student Portal at the start of the Summer Term. It is your responsibility to ensure
that you know when and where your examinations are taking place. As there will inevitably
be a number of changes to the provisional timetable over the Easter vacation, you will
need to check the final examination timetable carefully.
You can download your final examination timetable from either the Student Portal or from
the Examinations and Congregations Office website www.as.bham.ac.uk/examtimetable
Every effort is made to ensure that there are no changes made to the final examination
timetable. In exceptional circumstances however it may be necessary to make changes
to the final timetable. If any such changes affect you, you will be notified in writing, by
email, therefore please check your University email account regularly.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/examtimetable
www.my.bham.ac.uk
Supplementary examinations

The University’s supplementary examinations (resits) for 2010–11 will be held between
Monday 22 August and Friday 2 September 2011. You must ensure that you are available
for the entire supplementary examination period.
Your final examination timetable for the supplementary examination period will be available
from the Student Portal during the first week of August.
Students classified as overseas, for fee purposes, may be permitted to undertake any
necessary supplementary examinations in their home country. This concession also
covers EU students normally domiciled outside the United Kingdom. Overseas sittings
are subject to approval by your college and therefore cannot be guaranteed. A fee of
£100, payable by Monday 18 July 2011, is charged for this service to cover administrative
costs. Please note that overseas sittings are not available to students going on holiday
or working overseas.
Learn more
Religious observance
Students unable to sit examinations during both the main summer and supplementary
periods due to religious observance should notify the Examinations and Congregations
Office by Friday 11 February 2011.
Learn more
Alternative examination arrangements

The Examinations and Congregations Office centrally manages examination venues
for students requiring additional time allowances and/or use of a computer.
If an additional time allowance or access to a PC to complete your examinations

forms part of your Student Support Agreement (SSA), then a personalised examination
timetable confirming your examination arrangements, will be provided. Your personalised
examination timetable should be collected from the Enquiry Services Desk , in C Block
of the Aston Webb Building at the beginning of the Summer Term.
Medically supported examinations service

The University has an agreement with the University Medical Practice (5 Pritchatts
Road, Edgbaston, B15 2QU) to provide medical support during each of the University’s
examination periods to those students who meet relevant criteria. Students who feel they
have a medical condition which requires support during the course of their examinations
should contact Disability and Learning Support Services in the first instance and in good
time before their examinations. Students taken ill during the course of an examination will
be offered the opportunity to continue their assessment at the University Medical Practice
if they so wish, however this is dependent on assessment by the medical professional
on duty.
Temporary disability
If you find you have a temporary disability during either examination period please contact
your school immediately (remembering to obtain and submit any appropriate evidence
of the medical condition).
Examination irregularities
An examination irregularity is defined by the University as:
(a) any attempt by a student, under examination conditions, to obtain an advantage
over their fellow students by seeking to enhance their performance by having
with them in examinations material or information not specifically sanctioned
by the relevant question paper rubric; or
(b) the fabrication of data or results submitted in connection with any assessed
essay, dissertation, project, thesis, module or programme.
Proven incidents of examination irregularity may lead to expulsion from the University.
Before any assessment period you should refer to the Code of Practice on Conduct
of Centrally Co-ordinated Formal Written Examinations and the Undergraduate
Assessment Protocols or Postgraduate Assessment Protocols.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/code/exams.pdf
www.as.bham.ac.uk/code/tpma.pdf
Plagiarism

Plagiarism, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, means, ‘to take and use another
person’s ideas or writings or inventions as one’s own’. The University takes any form of
cheating or plagiarism very seriously. Penalties include expulsion from the University.
Detailed guidance on the issue of plagiarism will be available from your school.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/code/plagiarism.pdf
Mitigations
While studying, it is possible that you may become ill or suffer some other misfortune
that may adversely affect your performance in any kind of assessed work, not just
examinations. You may want the Board of Examiners to take these factors into
consideration when making recommendations about your progress or results.
The process for dealing with this is called mitigations.
If you feel that any significant adverse circumstances have affected your performance
you must inform the Mitigations Officer in your school as soon as realistically possible,
and at the very latest by the prescribed deadline set by your school.
To submit mitigations you must complete the University’s Mitigations Form and submit
it to the Mitigations Officer. Your mitigation is treated as sensitive information, and will
not be disclosed to other students, members of your family, or any persons in your school
who are not members of the Mitigations Panel. You must provide independent supporting
evidence (such as a medical certificate) with the Mitigations form. If you are unable to
provide evidence by the prescribed deadline you must submit the form without it. Your
Mitigations Officer will give you a new deadline to submit the evidence by. The Mitigations
Panel will consider your case and make a decision, which will be provisional pending the
future receipt of evidence.
When considering appeals, the University will not normally consider as ‘new evidence’
mitigations or other information that could have been brought to the attention of your
school or department earlier, unless they were very exceptional circumstances.
The Advice and Representation Centre (ARC) in the Guild of Students can provide
advice regarding mitigations.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/mitigations
www.guildofstudents.com/thearc
Medical certificates for illness during examinations

and at other times
In 2002, the University introduced a new system of medical certification for students,
which is based, primarily, on self-certification. Most programmes of study are designed
to take account of minor illnesses and occasional periods of sick leave should not affect
your ability to complete your course. With this in mind, the following forms of certification
will be requested if you have to take time away from your studies during normal periods:
p For minor/short-term illnesses totalling less than ten days in any academic year you
should complete a self-certificate and forward it to your personal tutor/supervisor
as soon as possible (category 1a)
p If your illness exceeds a total of ten days in any academic year you will be expected
to produce a medical certificate from your doctor for any subsequent illness (category
1b); it will be your responsibility to keep a tally of your days of absence
p For an illness which lasts more than five consecutive days you should obtain a medical
certificate from your doctor (category 2)
p For prolonged or ongoing problems such as depression, chronic fatigue syndrome,
diabetic complications or anorexia you may also need to request a medical certificate
(category 3) depending on the impact on your studies
At examinations times, at the time of other assessments requiring attendance, or

during the period immediately surrounding the submission date for a significant piece of
assessment (ie, contributing to progress to the next year or to final degree classification),
you will be expected to provide a medical certificate for any form of illness and to make
your school aware as soon as possible, and certainly before the meeting of the relevant
Board of Examiners, of the impact which you believe this illness has had on your
performance in the assessment. This will generally be through a Notification of Mitigations
form to which the completed medical certificate should be attached as supporting
evidence and submitted as per the arrangements in your school. Medical certificates will
also be required for requesting allowances such as short extensions for minor problems
occurring away from the main examination periods. You should consult your mitigations
officer for the exact procedures within your school. Students on BA Joint Honours
programmes should ensure that both departments are kept informed of any absences.
Copies of mitigation should similarly be sent to both departments.
The Examination Board will consider carefully whether the illness could reasonably be
expected to have affected your performance and how it should take this into account.
Blank University of Birmingham medical certificates are available from schools or
from our website. Tutors and Examination Boards will normally accept only University
provided medical certificates. If you are a sponsored student you should check whether
or not your sponsor requires information about any periods of absence which you may

have to take. If you have to withdraw temporarily from your programme of study on
medical grounds (a leave of absence), you will be required to produce a medical
note before resuming your studies.
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/form/medcert.pdf
Appeals
Following your examinations, Boards of Examiners, or in the case of doctoral researchers
the examiner of your thesis, will make recommendations about your progress and results.
Your Board of Examiners may recommend that you should withdraw from your programme
of study or repeat the year as an internal student or be awarded a qualification different
from the one you expected. You have the right to appeal against these recommendations,
and any other recommendation that has an adverse effect on your future, but only if you
have valid and genuine grounds upon which to appeal. You must complete the written
submission form and submit it, together with supporting evidence, to the Student Conduct
and Appeals Section by the specified date. Your school will then respond to your appeal
through the Student Conduct and Appeals Section. Appeals are then reviewed by the
Prima Facie Panel who make recommendations to either reject an appeal or refer it for
a full hearing. Should an Appeal hearing be required you will have an opportunity to
present your case in person. Appeal hearings are normally held during late July, early
August and October.
Advice
p When preparing an appeal, you are encouraged to seek assistance from the
ARC as soon as possible, as there may be a waiting list
p Advice may be available from your personal tutor
p If you have previously been in contact with the Counselling and Guidance Service
about any of the issues raised in the appeal or matters that may have a bearing
upon it, it may also be appropriate to consult them
p Further information about the appeals procedure is available from the Academic
and Student Administration Division
p Particular attention should be paid to the Code of Practice on Primary Appeals Procedures
Learn more
www.as.bham.ac.uk/appeals
Doctoral researchers: thesis submission and examination

If you propose to present a thesis during the coming session you are reminded that
you must enter for the examination by completing and returning a Notice of Intention
to Submit/Resubmit a Thesis form at least three months prior to when you intend to
present your work.
The submission and examination of your thesis is the culmination of your studies for a
research degree. There is a great deal of information about these processes in University
regulations, codes of practice and other forms of guidance, with which you should
become familiar.
This information has been brought together in a student guide to the ‘Submission
and Examination of Research Degree Theses’. You are strongly advised to obtain
a copy of this guide well before you propose to submit your thesis for examination.
The guide contains details about writing-up, the appointment of examiners, the oral
examination, an explanation of the recommendations that examiners might make about
your thesis, what you have to do before your degree can be formally conferred on you
and more. It also includes all of the forms that you will need to complete before, during
and after the submission and examination of your thesis.
Learn more
www.graduateschool.bham.ac.uk
www.as.bham.ac.uk/pgrthesis
Statements and transcripts

If you are a student or an alumnus of the University of Birmingham, you are entitled
to request specific written details about your academic studies or your registration
at the University.
Please note that statements are different from transcripts in that statements report
only limited details and do not include any details of academic achievements or progress.
Statements are issued free of charge. For the academic year 2010–11 the fee for dealing
with a transcript request will be £5 per copy. Please note that this fee may change.
If you commenced your studies in 2002–03 or subsequently, you will be provided
with one copy of the official transcript free of charge when you have completed your
programme of study. If you commenced your studies at the University prior to 2002–03
and are still in attendance at the University, you will be provided with one copy of the
official transcript free of charge when you have completed your programme of study.
To order an additional statement, please fill in the Statement Request form available
from Academic and Student Administration. To order an additional transcript for study
subsequent to 1997, you will need to order via the University Online Shop by following
the links from the Academic and Student Administration transcript web pages.
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 3091

Fax: +44 (0)121 414 7927
Email: transcripts@bham.ac.uk
www.as.bham.ac.uk/transcripts
Regulations and procedures
University legislation 72
Academic duty and attendance 72
Discipline 73
Fitness to practise 73
Complaints procedure 73
Mitigation and appeals 73
Data protection 74
Copyright and photocopying 75
Security 77
University legislation
The University’s legislation consists of its Charter, Statutes, Ordinances and Regulations.
All members of staff and students are subject to the legislation. Whilst the Charter and
Statutes are at the top of this hierarchy and address matters of institutional governance
and organisation, most students and staff are affected directly only by the Ordinances
and Regulations, which contain more detailed provisions related to employment of staff,
programmes of study, health and safety, discipline and the University estate.
By completing your online registration you are agreeing to abide by University legislation;
this can be found on the web on the Legislation website (address below); particularly
relevant are Regulations sections 5–8. Please ensure you are familiar with these
Regulations before you come to the University.
www.as.bham.ac.uk/legislation
Codes of practice
It is important that you are aware of the details of the codes of practice that relate to
you in order for you to evaluate that you are receiving the correct level of assistance,
benefits and service.
www.as.bham.ac.uk/legislation/codesofpractice.shtml
Academic duty and attendance

Debarring and reasonable diligence
Students who do not observe reasonable diligence in their approach to their academic
studies may be debarred from assessment in a module or be asked to withdraw from
their programme of study (See Regulation 7.8 and contact the Academic and Student
Administration Division for further information).
If there are concerns about a particular student, they will be invited to attend an interview
with the Head of School or his nominee. A formal written warning may then be issued,
reminding the student of the requirement to show reasonable diligence. If the student
still fails to show reasonable diligence, the school may convene a panel for the purpose
of deciding whether the student should be required to withdraw from a programme or be
barred from assessment in a module. The student will have a right of appeal.
Further information on the reasonable diligence procedures can be found

in the Code of Practice on Student Attendance and Reasonable Diligence.
www.as.bham.ac.uk/code/rd.pdf
Discipline

The University expects students to behave in a responsible manner, particularly towards
fellow students and members of staff of the University. Students are also required to
comply with University regulations and codes of practice. Further details of student
rights and responsibilities are in the Student Charter.
Fitness to practise
Students registered for programmes of study which are subject to fitness to practise
procedures may be treated differentially to other students of the University if their actions
call in to question their professional competence.
www.as.bham.ac.uk/fitnesstopractise
Complaints procedure
The University recognises that there may be occasions when you feel that your legitimate
expectations are not being met, or where misunderstandings or concerns about the nature
of the University’s provision occur. To address these circumstances, the University has
a student complaints procedure, which is clear, accessible and follows the principles of
natural justice, and which complies with national guidelines.
The procedure is divided in two stages: the first stage encourages you to seek resolution
of your complaints as close to the origin of the complaint as possible; the second, formal
stage provides a mechanism for the review and resolution of complaints, where students
believe that their concerns have not been addressed to their satisfaction at the first stage.
This includes mediation (which is also available earlier in the procedure) and consideration
by a Complaints Review Panel.
The University aims to deal with a complaint fairly, confidentially, without recrimination,
and in a timely manner.
www.as.bham.ac.uk/studentcomplaints
Mitigation and appeals

We have procedures for mitigations and appeals. Please refer to pages 65–67.
www.as.bham.ac.uk/mitigations
Data protection
We process data on students, staff and other individuals on a regular basis.
The University has a data protection policy that ensures members of the University
comply fully with the Data Protection Act 1998 and, in particular, the eight data
protection principles.
These require the data to be:
p Fairly and lawfully processed
p Processed for limited (defined) purposes
p Adequate, relevant and not excessive
p Accurate
p Not kept longer than necessary
p Processed in accordance with the individual’s rights
p Kept secure
p Not transferred to non-European Economic Area countries without adequate protection
When an individual applies to be a student at the University, a record is created on the

central student database. Information taken from the application form and also information
supplied by the individual at registration is added to the record. Other data will be added
to the record; for example, details of the courses being studied, examination marks and
fee payments.
The data will be used in the following ways:
p To administer the education process
p For carrying out research in order to improve services and courses provided
p For marketing purposes by sending students literature on possible future courses
p Provided to other bodies in accordance with statutory and government requirements
eg, Higher Education Statistical Agency
Information may be sent to University areas beside a student’s own department where
these provide a service. For example:
p Library Services to provide email addresses and access to library facilities
p The Guild of Students as students are automatically members of this (students do
have a right to decline membership and should notify the Guild if they wish to do so)
p Accommodation Services for the provision of accommodation
p The University Alumni Association – details are forwarded following graduation
p Estate Management to provide identity cards, which will be used to access facilities
at the University (the electronic photo used on the card will be kept on record and
used for identification purposes by schools/departments, for security and for
disciplinary matters)
Student obligation: students must ensure that all personal data provided to the University
is accurate and up-to-date. They must ensure that changes of address etc, are made via
the student portal ‘my.bham’.
Rights to access

Staff, students and other users of the University have the right to access any personal
data that is being kept about them either on computer or in certain files. Requests should
be made in writing to the Data Protection Officer, enclosing a cheque for £10 made
payable to ‘The University of Birmingham’. The University will make a charge of £10 on
each occasion that access is requested. The University aims to comply with requests for
access to personal information as quickly as possible, but will ensure that it is provided
within 40 days.
Examination marks
Students will be entitled to information about their marks for both coursework and
examinations as part of their tutorial support. The Data Protection Act cannot be used to
obtain earlier access to examination marks than would arise as part of normal University
procedures. The University may withhold certificates, accreditation or references in the
event that the full course fees have not been paid, or all books and equipment have not
been returned to the University.
Learn more
www.legalservices.bham.ac.uk/data_protection_policy
Copyright and photocopying

If you write some original text, the lyrics to a song or music then you have copyright on
that material and legal rights as to what you can do with it. In fact, if you include an original
illustration with your text you have separate rights in respect of that. This means that, in
law, nobody can copy your work without your say so, and possibly paying you for the right
to do so. These rights continue after you are dead – the executors of your estate can
charge for the use of your material up to 70 years after your death.
However, the same rights apply to the works of others, and if you copy their work or
download their material from the internet without their permission, then they can take legal
action against you for infringement of their copyright. Permission to copy can be granted
on a ‘one-off’ basis or in the form of a licence to copy from a range of material on a regular
basis. The University has signed photocopying licences with the Copyright Licensing
Agency (CLA) and the Newspaper Licensing Agency, which act on behalf of many UK,
European and US publishers.
So how does this affect you as a student at the University?

When you copy pages from a book or a journal which is still ‘in copyright’, you do so for
the purpose of ‘research or private study’. The Copyright Designs and Patents Act 1988
says that it is okay providing you are copying only an ‘insubstantial amount’ and you make
just one copy for personal use or non-commercial research.
However, what is insubstantial is not defined in the Act but what has become accepted
as ‘insubstantial’ is defined as:
p Up to one complete chapter of a book
p Up to one whole article from a single issue of a serial publication
or in a set of conference proceedings
p The entire report of a single case in a published report of judicial proceedings
p In the case of an anthology of short stories or poems, one short story or poem not
exceeding ten pages in length
OR no more than 5% of any published edition above, whichever is the greater. Copying
up to those limits is known as ‘fair dealing’. There are other guidelines as to what is fair
dealing, but if you stick to those limits cited above then you are unlikely to have
the copyright owners take legal action against you.
The key point about the CLA licence is that you are now allowed to make multiple copies
rather than just a single copy. The limits as to how much you can copy from a journal or
a book are about the same limits as fair dealing, and the publisher has to be a member
of the CLA scheme (which should cover the majority of them). If you do want to take
multiple copies of a journal article, to give out to your friends for example, then you must
check this out first to stay legal. The licence still applies to photocopying only, so if you
want to scan copyright material, for mounting on a web page for instance, then you still
need to get permission from the copyright owner, or risk legal action.
When it comes to the full terms and conditions of the licence, and copyright law in
general, there is a lot of ‘fine detail’ involved. So, if you want to do any copying that might
take you outside the fair dealing limits, then you are best advised to check the website
www.library.bham.ac.uk/support/copyright
Besides giving general advice on most aspects of copyright, it also provides links to the
CLA and the NLA and other agencies which have granted the University licences to copy,
with details of material covered, limits etc.
You can also read the notices posted by most photocopiers on campus if you need
reminding of the limits when you are waiting to copy.
For any other information on how the licence affects you,

or on copyright in general, contact
Legislation Manager, Library Services
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 4749
Email: Malcolm Kendall: m.kendall@bham.ac.uk
Security

The University has set out its objectives for the management of security on campus
in the Students’ Charter.
Learn more
In the event of a serious accident or any other emergency, those concerned should
telephone the University Security Centre, which is open 24 hours a day. Security staff
will send assistance and contact the emergency services if required.
(internal telephone 44444 or external telephone +44 (0)121 414 4444).
Lost property
The Security Centre houses the University lost and found property office. The Centre
is located at the rear of the Aston Webb Building, between the Great Hall and B block.
It is accessible via the front entrance to the Aston Webb Building, or from the University
ring road. Found property should be handed in to the Security Centre (or to the security
desk in the foyer of the Medical School). Unclaimed property will be retained for three
months before disposal to charitable organisations. Found cash is paid into the University
account, it is not returned to the finder. Please telephone prior to reclaiming your property.
Lost property
Monday to Friday: 9.00am–5.00pm
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 3111

Car parking
Student parking is available on the South Car Park or Pritchatts Road Car Park
on a pay and display basis. If you wish to use these car parks you should fill out
an application form. Application forms are available from the Academic and Student
Administration Division.
There are a limited number of car parking spaces on residential sites and students
in University accommodation are not encouraged to bring their vehicles.
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 2623

Email: carparking@bham.ac.uk
Insurance
The University cannot take responsibility for your property and, if you have not already
done so, you would be wise to obtain insurance cover against loss or theft of your
belongings or other items in your possession (eg, library books) whilst at University.
You will be able to get advice from the Insurance Office in the Guild of Students.
Leisure activities
The Vale Village and The Hub 80

Sport 81
Campus treasures (museums
and other attractions) 83
Barber Institute of Fine Arts 83
collections 84
Special Collections 85
Lapworth Museum of Geology 87
Music in the University 89
The Vale Village and The Hub

The Vale Village
The Vale Village is around a 15- to 20-minute walk from the main campus and is set in
a relaxing conservation area with lovely views, nice walks and its own lake. It is home to
2,750 students and has several large scale events throughout the year including ‘The
Vale Fireworks’ in November and ‘Vale Festival’ at the end of each academic year.
The Hub
The Hub is at the heart of the Vale Village and is open to all students the University of
Birmingham and their guests and occupies the whole ground floor below Shackleton.
The Hub has many facilities, including two catering outlets; (Fusion and Rio’s); a
Costcutter shop, cash machine and Bar One. It also has a 24-hour, 365 days a
year, manned reception for the residents staying on The Vale Village.
Catering outlets
There are two catering outlets in The Hub: Fusion and Rio’s.
Fusion
Fusion is a self-service style food court serving freshly prepared hot and cold food
Monday to Friday, term-time only. Breakfast is served from 7.30am with both traditional
and continental breakfast offered to eat in, or takeaway if you need to grab and go
to lectures.
Lunchtime service starts from midday and the choice varies daily with Chicken Joes,
pizzas, curries, Thursday roast and jacket potatoes being the most popular last year.
There’s always an extensive salad bar and a selection of fresh sandwiches, rolls and
wraps if you need to grab something in a hurry. Dinner is served from 4.30pm and
offers a traditional home-cooked menu. With plenty of main courses to choose from
– at least one of which is vegetarian – an extensive fresh salad bar, homemade soup
and delicious desserts to round your meal off, it’s a very popular place.
Rio’s
Rio’s is a quality coffee shop, serving the best hot chocolates, cappuccinos and lattes
on The Vale. If you want to treat yourself with your espresso, then Rio’s also serves a
range of delicious homemade cakes and cookies. For something a bit more substantial
try a panini or freshly made baguette with the filling of your choice. Fairtrade products
are also served in all of our outlets.
Costcutter
Leisure activities
The Hub has its own mini supermarket that sells a wide selection of products from
cleaning materials to bacon, eggs, fresh fruit and vegetables. All are competitively
priced and there are fantastic special offers, which are always popular. Costcutter
is open seven days a week in term-time and more limited hours in vacations.
Bar One
Bar One is open seven days a week during term-time and it is everyone’s local on The
Vale. You can chill out mid-week, play some pool, watch your favourite sport on either
of the two big screens or, if that’s not sufficient, party till the early hours at the weekend!
The drinks are competitively priced throughout the year, but watch out for great special
offers that make your precious money go that little bit further.
Entertainment
There is also regular entertainment at The Hub with big name acts like Scott Mills and
Ralph Little having previously appeared live on stage. Various live bands throughout the
year and special theme nights give you the chance to dress up and let your hair down.
Bar One hosts a legendary quiz night on a Sunday with over 550 people entering the
first one last year!
The Hub and the Vale Village provide a secure and safe environment to relax and
socialise in, with specially-trained staff who understand the needs of students and
their friends all in a friendly and relaxed environment.
Sport
University of Birmingham Sport (UBSport)
University of Birmingham Sport (UBSport) is within the top four universities for sport in the
UK. From absolute beginner to world-class athlete, UBSport offers you huge opportunities
to excel and grow with one of the most comprehensive sports programmes in higher
education. The range of high quality services are supported by an extensive range of
indoor and outdoor facilities. Whatever your interest and ability, you will meet new people,
make new friends, get fit, feel good and study better.
Get involved – become a member

University of Birmingham Sport enjoys some of the best sports facilities of any redbrick
university in the country. The Munrow Sports Centre on the Edgbaston campus is the hub
of UBSport, where many facilities are based and where you can find out how to become
a member and get involved.
Facilities
With a superb fitness suite with cardiovascular, resistance and extensive free weights
equipment; a 25m swimming pool; squash, badminton and tennis courts; sports and
gymnastics halls; dance studio; dojo; athletics track; a variety of pitches including
grass, synthetic, a state-of-the-art 3G pitch; and a boat house, you’re sure to
find something which appeals at UBSport.
We also have our very own centre for outdoor pursuits in the Lake District, The Raymond
Priestley Centre, where you can try your hand at windsurfing, abseiling, canoeing and
much more.
Intra-leagues
The Intra-leagues provide term-time competitive fun without the commitment of regular
training and culminates with the annual Summer Sports Festival. You can sign up with
a group of friends, a department, a team from your hall of residence or join one of the
existing teams to play against others in the league.
Active Lifestyle
Active Lifestyle is one of the largest programme of its kind in the country. As well as
a wide variety of fitness, dance and yoga classes, there’s also a comprehensive range
of sports courses on offer, giving you the chance to learn a new sport or improve your
existing skills.
Sports clubs
UBSport has achieved a top four ranking in the British Universities and Colleges Sport
(BUCS) competition over the last 18 years. With over 40 clubs representing the University
in regional, national and inter-varsity competitions there’s going to be something to
satisfy your competitive streak. Each club has a qualified coach, provides regular training
and fitness sessions, has access to sports science support and affiliation to the sport’s
governing body.
Performance sport
If you are a sports club member or a sports scholar, our Performance Sport team is
there to ensure you’re always at your best, hosting an interdisciplinary support service
for elite sports men and women. Incorporating the high performance laboratory, on site
physiotherapists, sports masseurs, isokineticist and performance gym, clients can easily
and quickly access experts in all areas.
Scholarships
Leisure activities
The University’s Sport Scholarship Programme is one of the best in the UK, providing
a comprehensive package of support and financial benefits to meet the needs of the
individual athlete. The Scholarship programme supports four schemes: University of
Birmingham Sport Scholarship Scheme (UBSport), Talented Athlete Scholarship
Scheme (TASS), Royal and Ancient Golf Performance Programme and the Paul
Weston Triathlon Scholarship.
Learn more
www.sport.bham.ac.uk
Campus treasures (museums and other attractions)

From the Art Deco splendour of the Barber Institute of Fine Arts to the seasonal glories of
the Winterbourne Botanic Garden, the University has a surprising variety of attractions to
suit all tastes and interests. We have sculptures dotted about campus, important historical
collections in our schools, modern murals and an extensive collection of fossils, minerals
and rocks. Below is just a flavour of the diverse nature of our collections. We hope that
you are encouraged to explore our treasures for yourselves.
Learn more
www.collections.bham.ac.uk
Barber Institute of Fine Arts

Monet, Manet and Magritte; Rubens, Rossetti, Renoir and Rodin; Botticelli, Gainsborough,
Turner, Degas and Van Gogh. A veritable roll-call of the biggest names in the history
of Western art, and you can see their major works here at the Barber Institute of Fine
Arts. Housed in Birmingham’s finest Art Deco building, the Barber was awarded the
title Art Gallery of the Year in the most recent edition of The Good Britain Guide and
with good reason. As well as the outstanding collection of old master and modern
paintings, drawings and sculpture, there is also the stunning coin gallery, containing
an internationally important collection of Roman and Byzantine coins, and a continuing
programme of exhibitions, lectures, workshops, concerts, operas, festivals, family
activities and other special events. The Barber is perfect for a peaceful lunchtime
break or as somewhere to bring family and friends. ‘One of the finest small galleries
in Europe’ – the Observer.
The Barber Institute of Fine Arts

Opening hours
Monday–Saturday: 10.00am–5.00pm
Sunday: 12.00noon–5.00pm
Location
The Barber Institute stands immediately inside the University campus
at the East Gate, opposite the Guild of Students.
Contact
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 7333
Email: info@barber.org.uk
www.barber.org.uk
Admission is free
University of Birmingham collections

While you are studying here, take some time to discover the diverse collections of
art and artefacts in several of the buildings and departments on campus. The main
collections range from the recently redisplayed archaeology collection to the historic
physics instruments and medical waxes.
The University’s art collection began to develop when the University commissioned
portraits of retiring Chancellors and Vice-Chancellors over the 20th century. Most of
these hang in the Aston Webb Building. The collection has grown through commission,
purchase, loan and gift to include a wide variety of styles and genres of work, ranging
from landscapes by Roger Fry to allusive and symbolic paintings by Sonia Lawson RA.
Other works include murals by Peter Lanyon and John Walker, and paintings and prints
by artists such as Hughie O’Donoghue, Simon Packard and John Bratby RA.
There is also a fine range of sculpture to be found as you travel around campus. Old
and new are on show, from the rediscovered marble bust of Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema
(1895) by Onslow Ford in the Heslop Room of the Main Library, to Sir Eduardo Paolozzi’s
Faraday at the West Gate, given by the artist to mark the University’s Centenary in 2000.
The artworks and collections are displayed in public spaces and teaching rooms. Those
in teaching rooms can be viewed by appointment with the department concerned.
Historical Physics Instruments Archaeology Collection
Leisure activities
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 4565 Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 5497
School of Physics and Astronomy, Department of Ancient History
Poynting Building and Archaeology
www.ph.bham.ac.uk School of Historical Studies,
3rd Floor, Arts Building
Medical Waxes Collection www.iaa.bham.ac.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 4104
School of Medicine Danford Collection
www.medicine.bham.ac.uk Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 5128
Centre of West African Studies,
Admission is free Arts Building
Opening hours www.historycultures.bham.ac.uk/cwas
(by prior appointment)
Special Collections
Explore a wealth of treasures in Special Collections, have the chance to read Neville
Chamberlain’s personal thoughts about his meetings with Hitler during the Munich crisis
of 1938, be amazed by the beauty and elegance of Persian manuscripts dating back to
the 12th century, browse through some of the greatest books ever published including
first editions of Charles Dickens and magnificent works from the printing press of
William Morris lavishly illustrated by Edward Burne-Jones.
The Special Collections and Archives of the University of Birmingham consist

of approximately 120,000 pre-1850 books dating from 1471 and some 3 million
manuscripts. Special Collections is responsible for directly supporting the University’s
research, learning and teaching agenda by collecting and making fully accessible all
collections and seeking to acquire material which ties into this agenda.
Our manuscript and archive collections include:

p The Mingana Collection of Middle Eastern Manuscripts: designated as a collection
of National and International Importance
p The Church Missionary Society: contains the earliest recorded documents from
pioneering explorations into Africa and Asia
p The Chamberlain Collection: the papers of Joseph Chamberlain (Secretary of State
for the Colonies, 1895–1903 and founder of the University) and Austen Chamberlain
(Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, 1924–29) and Neville Chamberlain (Prime
Minister 1937–1940)
p The Avon Papers: papers belonging to and about the life of Anthony Eden
(Prime Minister 1955–1957), including material about the Suez Crisis
p Noel Coward Collection: personal diaries, photographs and manuscripts
Our rare book collection includes:

p Important first editions, such as De Humani Corporis (1543) by Vesalius, the
Complete Works (1616) of Ben Jonson, two copies of The Temple of Flora (1799–
1807) by Robert Thornton and comprehensive collections of the works of Joseph
Priestley and D H Lawrence
p The Hensleigh Wedgwood (1803–1891) collection, an important philologist,
grandson of Josiah Wedgwood and cousin and brother-in-law of Charles Darwin
– includes Johann Schilter’s monumental folio celebration of Germanic culture
Thesaurus Antiquitatum (Ulm, 1728)
p Major collections relating to the history of printing including publications from John
Baskerville, the Kelmscott Press, the Birmingham School of Printing, and the Italian
printer, Giambattista Bodoni of Parma
Using the Collections

p Access to Special Collections: We welcome all students to use Special Collections
at the University of Birmingham whether you are an undergraduate or a postgraduate.
You will need to register on your first visit so that we can issue you with a Special
Collections card. You will need to show a valid student card so that we can confirm
your details.
p Teaching Sessions and Talks: Special Collections runs a variety of sessions
tailored to the needs of students or groups. Please enquire for further details.
p Web Access: Our web page is the main point of access to find out about Special
Collections, www.special-coll.bham.ac.uk
p Disabled Users : For more information please check our web pages .
Learn more
www.special-coll.bham.ac.uk
Contact us
Leisure activities
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 5839
Fax: +44 (0)121 471 4691
Email: special-collections@bham.ac.uk
Opening hours
Monday: 10.00am–5.00pm
Tuesday to Wednesday: 9.00am–5.00pm
Thursday: 9.00am–7.00pm
Lapworth Museum of Geology

Want to travel back over 4.5 billion years without leaving Birmingham? The Lapworth
Museum of Geology, the largest collection of fossils, minerals and rocks in the Midlands
brings together internationally important specimens and unique local collections to explain
the history of the Earth. The museum is named after Charles Lapworth, the first Professor
of Geology at Birmingham and one of the most influential geologists in the late 19th and
early 20th century.
We have some of the finest fossils from the Wenlock Limestone of Dudley, when Central
England lay beneath a tropical sea, and specimens from the Coseley coalfields which
reveal the time that humid swamps of ferns, fish, and giant dragonflies covered the
Midlands. Plus, fossilised footprints from Shropshire let you track some of the very
earliest land animals.
From further afield there are beautifully preserved crustaceans, insects, fish and
pterosaurs from the Solnhofen Limestone of Germany. We also have outstanding
collections of fossil fish from around the world, and weird and wonderful animals
from the world-famous Burgess Shale of British Columbia which show what life
was like 510 million years ago.
Our mineral collection contains 15,000 specimens from all over the world which
display a stunning variety of colours and exquisite crystal forms.
Come to the Lapworth Museum and take a trip through time!
Learn more
www.lapworth.bham.ac.uk
Contact
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 7294/6751
Email: lapworth@contacts.bham.ac.uk
Opening hours
Monday – Friday: 9.00am–5.00pm
Saturday – Sunday: 2.00–5.00pm
Location
The Lapworth Museum is located in the Aston Webb building
(A-Block, R4 on the campus map)
Admission is free
Winterbourne House and Garden

Winterbourne is a stunning Arts and Craft house and garden that forms an oasis
of tranquillity at the heart of the University campus.
The property was built in 1903 for Birmingham industrialist John Sutton Nettlefold
of the GKN screw-making dynasty and his wife Margaret Chamberlain, who designed
the beautiful seven-acre garden.
Boasting over 6,000 plant species, the Grade II listed garden holds many attractions to
look at – including a unique sandstone garden, striking colour-themed borders, a hazelnut
tunnel, streamside planting and secluded woodland walk.
From May 2010, Winterbourne House will also be opening as a heritage attraction,
revealing what life was like for the families who lived at the property during the height
of the Arts and Craft movement.
Winterbourne also has a Tea Room, Gift Shop, Gallery and Plant Sales area as well
as a busy programme of adult education courses and public events running throughout
the year.
Learn more
www.winterbourne.org.uk
Contact
School of
Leisure
Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 3003
Email: enquiries@winterbourne.org.uk
activities
Opening times
Biosciences
April-September: 10.00am–6.00pm
October-March: 10.00am–4.00pm
Seven days a week
Admission £4, Free on weekdays to University staff and students.
Music in the University

The University of Birmingham enjoys one of the liveliest music-making scenes of any
campus with a wide variety of groups, societies and ensembles based in the Guild
and elsewhere.
University Music Society (UMS)

This is the biggest music-making society in the University. We organise two symphony
orchestras, a symphonic wind band, brass band, chamber choir, large choir, jazz orchestra
and saxophone ensemble. Some ensembles are auditioned, others are open to all. Full
information can be found on the Society’s website and specific questions can be emailed
to ums_pres@hotmail.com. We also have a stall at the Societies’ Fayre, at which you can
find out more about the various ensembles we organise; a brief summary is given here.
Auditions
If there are auditions for the ensembles listed, they take place in the first week of term;
the main audition day is Wednesday 6 October 2010 but the arrangements for each
ensemble vary. Please visit the websites at the end of this section for more information.
Chamber Choir (unauditioned)

Normal Rehearsal Time: Tuesdays 7.30–9.30pm
This large choir of approximately 200 voices gives two concerts per year in either
Birmingham’s world-renowned Symphony Hall or the recently refurbished Town Hall.
It is conducted by professionals and members of the Music Department staff. Works
performed recently include Bernstein Chichester Psalms, and Fauré Requiem.
University Philharmonic Orchestra and Symphony Orchestra (auditioned)

Normal Rehearsal Times: Wednesdays 2.00–5.00pm (Philharmonic) and Thursdays
7.30–9.30pm (Symphony)
We run two full-sized orchestras of equal standing; each one gives one concert
with the University Choir (see overleaf) and one concert on its own, and is conducted
by professional conductors and members of Music Department staff. Works recently
performed included Elgar’s Enigma Variations and Vaughan Williams’ A London Symphony.
University Chamber Orchestra (auditioned)

Normal Rehearsal Time: Mondays 5.00–7.00pm
This small orchestra is run by the Department of Music but non-music students are
welcome to join; the audition for the two main orchestras serves as the audition for
this ensemble too. The orchestra gives two lunchtime concerts per year, conducted
by professionals or professionally-coached students.
Brass Band (un-auditioned)

Normal Rehearsal Time: Wednesdays 7.30–9.30pm
The Brass Band is a recently-founded ensemble but has quickly established itself; it gives
two concerts per year, directed by students and shared with the Wind Band (see below)
and plays a wide variety of music, from traditional brass standards to film music and
arrangements of pop classics.
Jazz Orchestra (auditioned)

Normal Rehearsal Time: Tuesdays 7.30–9.30pm
This small auditioned ensemble gives at least two concerts per year in a mixture of formal
and informal settings. It plays a wide variety of music from early jazz classics of the 1920s
and 30s right through to recently composed and arranged numbers.
Symphonic Wind Band (un-auditioned)

Normal Rehearsal Time: Mondays 7.30–9.30pm
This is a student-conducted ensemble of brass, woodwind and percussion players
and gives two concerts per year jointly with the Brass Band, playing a diverse selection
of music from Holst’s Military Band Suites through to Harry Potter and Star Wars.
Saxophone Ensemble (un-auditioned)

Normal Rehearsal Time: TBC
This is the latest UMS ensemble to be established and comprises saxophones
and saxophonists of all shapes and sizes playing a wide variety of purposely
arranged and composed music.
University Singers (un-auditioned)

Normal Rehearsal Time: Thursdays 5.00–7.00pm
This chamber choir (up to 30 people) is run by the Department of Music but is open
to singers from all parts of the University. It gives two concerts per year and also sings
regularly in churches and cathedrals.
Learn more
www.music.bham.ac.uk/making/choirs.shtml
Other music-making
The UMS is not the only society on campus devoted to music-making: there are several
more societies based in the Guild of Students (pages 31–32).
Learn more
www.ums.org.uk (all UMS ensembles including details of when, where and how
to audition, rehearsal venues and concert dates).
www.music.bham.ac.uk/making (more general information about music-making
in the University).
www.jabsoc.com
www.gmtg.org
Preparing to leave the University
Temporary or permanent
withdrawal 94
Graduation 95
Staying in touch 96
Managing your money
after graduation 97
Visa and immigration advice 98
Temporary or permanent withdrawal

Temporary withdrawal/leave of absence
If you need to temporarily withdraw from your studies for any reason, you are strongly
advised to consider the possible financial implications. You may lose some, or all, of
your student financial support and only very limited state benefits are available to students
who are expected to return to full-time study. You may wish to seek advice from your
LEA, the Guild of Students, the Student Funding Office or the Department for Work and
Pensions. You should consult the relevant Student Records team (see page 19) if you
wish to temporarily withdraw (or take a leave of absence) as you will need to complete
and return the appropriate form.
Permanent withdrawal
If for any reason you decide to terminate your registration before the end of the 2010–11
session, you must give written notice to the relevant Student Records team in the Academic
and Student Administration Division. Please complete the appropriate ‘Application to
Permanently Withdraw’ form depending on whether you are an undergraduate or
postgraduate taught student at www.as.bham.ac.uk/withdrawal and return your identity
card. All students are strongly advised to speak to their Personal Tutor before completing
the form. A proportion of your tuition fees may be refunded. Any refund will be in line with
the current University regulations. If you are an international student and hold a student
visa (or residence permit), the immigration regulations state that you should be in full-time
education for the duration of your stay. If you are considering permanent or temporary
withdrawal, you are advised to make an appointment with the International Students
Advisory Services (ISAS) to discuss your situation in confidence, as there may be
implications for your visa status. In accordance with the new points based system (Tier
4 – Students), any international students who have been issued with a Confirmation of
Acceptance to Study (CAS), and who withdraw from the University, either permanently
or temporarily, before the end of the 2010–11 session, will be reported to the UK
Border Agency.
Accommodation withdrawal
If you are due to withdraw or take a leave of absence from University you must fill
in an Early Release Application form which can be obtained from Accommodation
Services. Once we have confirmation from your department, you will be informed
of your Early Release Application status. Please refer to the terms and conditions
of your accommodation contract.
Graduation

Students graduate from the University of Birmingham via a Degree Congregation held
in either the December or July of each academic year.
Typically most undergraduate students choose to graduate in July (following their summer
examinations) and most postgraduate taught students in December (following completion
of their programmes of study in September). Doctoral researchers tend to graduate at
the next round of Degree Congregations following the completion, submission
and assessment of their theses.
Students eligible to graduate at the forthcoming round of Degree Congregations should

confirm their attendance via the Student Portal. After logging on to the portal students
should select the >>MyProgress>> tab and follow the on-screen directions to the Online
Invitation Service.
This service opens in February for the July Degree Congregations and in September for
the December Degree Congregations. All eligible students should confirm their attendance
by 15 October for the December congregations, and 1 March for the July congregations.
Failure to confirm attendance by these deadlines may result in a delay to your graduation
as a place cannot be guaranteed for any student completing their invitation after this
deadline. It is strongly advised that you check the Examinations and Congregations
Office website regularly during the academic year of your graduation.
Providing that you meet the appropriate invitation submission deadline, and that you
wish to attend your Degree Congregation in person, a Graduand Information brochure
will be posted to you in November (for a December congregation) or May (for a July
congregation). This brochure will contain all the information you will require for
graduation, including ticket allocation, date and time of your ceremony and gown
hire/photography arrangements.
If you choose not to attend your Degree Congregation and graduate in absentia, your
certificate will be posted to you shortly following the Degree Congregations.
Congregation dates for 2010–11

15–17 December 2010
15–22 July 2011 (excluding weekends)
www.as.bham.ac.uk/graduation
Staying in touch
The University aims to develop lifelong relationships with its students and alumni which
means that we would still like to remain in contact with you once you have left.
The Development and Alumni Office aim to keep all former students (alumni) in touch with
the University and each other. We run an extensive programme of alumni events including
nights at the Guild, class reunions, professional networking events and international
receptions. We also produce the Birmingham Magazine and Alumni Newsletter which
will keep you up-to-date with the latest University research breakthroughs as well as the
benefits and services that we offer to alumni. Our new online alumni community,
your.bham, will also help you to keep in direct contact with old friends, register
for a University of Birmingham alumni email forwarding address, post jobs for
other alumni and much, much more.
Alumni celebrating the 10th, 25th, 35th and 50th anniversaries of their graduation
this year are invited to a special reunion. Join us on Saturday 7 June for campus
tours, visits to academic departments, a reunion lunch for your class and more.
www.alumni.bham.ac.uk/events
Alumni also provide crucial support to the University and we are very grateful to them.
During your time on campus, you may see alumni acting as ambassadors at recruitment
days, giving guest lectures, talking about their career paths or recruiting from our student
body. Alumni also make gifts to support the University and your student experience.
www.alumni.bham.ac.uk/fund/annual
We attend a number of student events throughout the year and so we hope to meet you
during your time on campus. Before you leave the University, please provide us with your
contact details so that we can stay in touch with you and you can join our community of
145,000 contactable alumni worldwide.
Head of Alumni Relations

Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 7278
Email: alumnioffice@contacts.bham.ac.uk
www.alumni.bham.ac.uk
Managing your money after graduation

Repaying your loans
Once you have left University you will need to start repaying your loan(s).
UK and EU students
Students who took a loan after 1998 have what is known as an ‘Income Based Loan’.
This means repayment is determined by income.
Working in the UK
Your repayments will begin the April after leaving University. You will need to pay 9% of
your salary above £15,000. Repayments are made through the UK tax system by HMRC,
either through Pay as You Earn (PAYE) or self-assessment.
Working overseas
If you will be working overseas for a period that exceeds three months, you will need
to complete an Overseas Income Assessment form. Repayment thresholds are based
on destination countries.
The Student Loans Company will work out your repayment and issue a repayment
schedule. You will need to repay the loan directly to the SLC.
Learn more
www.studentloanrepayment.co.uk
American students
Your rights and responsibilities including repayments and your options for delaying
repayments were printed on the supporting document attached to your Master
Promissory Note (MPN) when you took out each loan. Your lender should write to
you to confirm your repayment schedule once they become aware that you have left
university. You will have a six-month grace period (for Stafford loans only) before you
have to start making any repayments but it is important that you make your repayments
and that they are on time. If you are struggling to make a repayment then a number of
options should be open to you. Exit counselling will be provided by the Student Funding
Office before you leave the University but you can view the information at any time at
www.as.bham.ac.uk/funding/uscanada
Financing further study

There is no government support available if you decide to continue your studies at
postgraduate level. You will need to finance your studies yourself either through a private
loan or sponsorship. Special loan schemes are available but you should contact high
street banks for more specific information. The government can provide information
on financial assistance to support your leaving.
Learn more
www.direct.gov.uk/adultlearning
Visa and immigration advice

If you are an international student and hold a student visa (or residence permit), you will
need to consider your immigration status when you leave the University. You may wish to:
p Apply to extend your student visa for further study as a Tier 4 student
p Apply to switch to another visa category to stay and work in the UK
The following are routes to work in the UK after your studies.
Tier 1 (Post-study work)

p For those who have obtained a UK recognised bachelor or postgraduate degree
p A UK Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or Professional Graduate
Diploma in Education (PGDE)
p A Higher National Diploma (HND) from a Scottish institution
Tier 2
For jobs where no one in the resident labour market can be recruited, and occupations
where there is a shortage of qualified workers.
Tier 1 (General)
For those with degrees and work experience and prior earnings at a certain level. This
replaces the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme.
You can get further information about visa requirements and the application process
from the International Students Advisory Service website (ISAS) (see page 25).
Learn more
www.international.bham.ac.uk
www.ukcisa.org.uk
www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/studyingintheuk/adult-students
www.ukvisas.gov.uk
www.as.bham.ac.uk/visas
Maps and directions
The Edgbaston campus 102

University locations 104
The Selly Oak campus 105
Directions 106
Information point Library
Level access entrance Museum
102 P
Steps
Student Handbook 2010–11
Public car park
Sport facilities
First aid
H Hospital Food and drink
Edgbaston campus Key
key 24 24 hour security Retail
Y2 Building name Bus stops Toilets
Car parking Information point Library ATM
The University has a ‘Pay and Level access entrance Museum Canal bridge
Display’ system operating on Steps Sport facilities Sculpture trail
the Edgbaston campus, and P Public car park First aid average walk time
from Chancellor’s Court
visitors are advised to have H Hospital Food and drink
24 24 hour security
change available. There are Retail
parking spaces for visitors on Bus stops Toilets

s
inute
Library ATM
the South Car Park, North Car 15 m
G21
Park, Pritchatts Road Car Park Museum

SOMERS Canal bridge T the
To e Vale
Vale
Medical Practice
ET ROAD
B9 and Dental Centre
Sport facilities
and Vincent Drive Car Park.
Oakley Court
Sculpture trail
The Elms
Day Nursery
First aid average walk time
Tennis Court
Food and drink from Chancellor’s

G20 Court
Pritchatts House
AD
Ashcroft
Retail RO
G19
Park House
AR
Toilets
UH
L
Pritchatts Park
NA
RQ
CA
Village
AM
FA
PR
ATM
GH
MIN
ITC
13 Pritchatts Road BIR Conference
ED
The Spinney G18 Priorsfield Park
H
D
AN
Canal bridge
AT
GB
ER
ST
T
G17
S
Peter Scott House

CE
AS
R
WO
RO
Sculpture trail
TO
G5
AD
N
P G16 Lucas House
PA
Pritchatts Road
average walk time
RK
Car Park
frominuteChancellor’s Court
s G14
RO
B8 10 m Garth House
G4
AD
Conference
Park G15 Westmere House
RO AD
B7 B6
G1
BR
AIL
EL M S
SF
O
RD
DR
IV G3
E
G6
HO
G2 G13
SP Hornton Grange
B4 ITA
L DR
B5 IV G7 G12
E
G8
Winterbourne
H Botanic Garden
QUEEN ELIZABETH
B3 HOSPITAL G9
North
G11
VE
Gate
Running
RI
Track
G10
D
PRI
T
P
L
R25
N
NA
inutes
TC
E
CA
5m HA
C
HA
M Munrow P TTS
R20
IN
B2 B1
G
Sports Centre RO
V
IN North Car Park

M
ol
ool
cho
al Sch BIR P AD
d a
Medic D
AN
R
TE
ES
RC
O
W
R21 R19
R18
R22
EST Main Library
D W
P RO
A R17
University Y
IT R26
Station R23 R16
S
ER
P
IV
R27
UN
West
Gate R28
R.30
R24
R14 KING
Y16 R15 The Barber EDWARD’S
Institute of
Fine Arts SCHOOL
Y9
Y8 R2 UNIV
R1 ERSIT
Y RO
Y17 Y2 AD EA
ST
East
Y10 R13 Gate MAIN ENTRANCE
Y1 R3
CHANCELLOR’S
COURT R8 O3
Y12 R4
R9
ED
Y11 R5 The Guild

GB
of Students O2
Y13 R7 R10
O1
AST
R6 R12
Y3 24
ON
O4
Y4
PA R
R IN
Sport and G ROA
D SOUTH R11
K RO
Exercise
Sciences Y5
Y14 P
A
Y6 ntre
D
y ce
South
it
Car Park To c
Maps with more detail

Y15 can be Y7
Sports Pitches
found on the University’s website AD
Grange RO
OL
at www.location.bham.ac.uk Road
Gate South BR
IS T
Pedestrian access only Gate A38 To Selly Oak Campus
To Jarratt Hall
Red Zone Green Zone
R1 Law G1 32 Pritchatts Road
R2 Frankland Building G2 31 Pritchatts Road
R3 Hills Building G3 European Research Institute
Maps and directions

R4 Aston Webb – Earth Sciences G4 3 Elms Road
R5 Aston Webb – B Block G5 Computer Centre
R6 Aston Webb – Great Hall G6 Metallurgy and Materials
R7 Aston Webb – C Block G7 IRC Net Shape Laboratory
R8 Physics West G8 Gisbert Kapp Building
R9 Nuffield G9 52 Pritchatts Road
R10 Physics East G10 54 Pritchatts Road
R11 Medical Physics G11 Winterbourne House
R13 Poynting Building G12 Winterbourne Botanic Garden
R14 Barber Institute of Fine Arts G15 Westmere
R15 Watson Building G18 Priorsfield
R16 Arts Building G19 Park House
R17 Ashley Building G20 Elms Plant Laboratorium
R18 Strathcona Building G21 Park Grange
R19 Education Building Green Zone Conference Park
R20 J G Smith Building G13 Hornton Grange
R21 Muirhead Tower G14 Garth House
R22 Main Library G16 Lucas House
R23 University Centre G17 Peter Scott House
R24 Staff House
R25 Munrow Sports Centre Yellow Zone
R26 Geography Y1 Old Gymnasium
R27 Biosciences Y2 Haworth Building
R28 Learning Centre Y3 Civil Engineering and
Mechanical Engineering
Blue Zone
Y4 Terrace Huts
B1 Medical School
Y5 Estates West
B2 Institute of Biomedical Research
Y6 Maintenance Building
B3 Wellcome Clinical Research Facility
Y7 Grounds and Gardens
B4 Sir Robert Aitken Institute for
Y8 Chemistry West
Medical Research
Y9 Computer Science
B5 CRUK Institute for Cancer Studies
Y10 Alta Bioscience
B6 Research Park
Y11 Chemical Engineering
B7 90 Vincent Drive
Y12 Biochemical Engineering
B8 Henry Wellcome Building for
Y13 Chemical Engineering Workshop
Biomolecular NMR Spectroscopy
Y14 Sport and Exercise Sciences
B9 Medical Practice and Dental Centre
Y15 Civil Engineering Laboratories
Orange Zone Y16 Occupational Health and
O1 The Guild of Students Environmental Medicine
O2 St Francis Hall Y17 Public Health
O3 University House
O4 Elm House
University locations
Directions to the Dental School
The Dental School is located in Birmingham city centre. Detailed directions
can be found on the University’s website at: www.location.bham.ac.uk
Maps of the area can also be found on: www.maps.google.co.uk
Click on the link to ‘Maps’, type ‘Birmingham’ in the destination city

with the postcode ‘B4 6NN’ and the address as ‘St Chad’s Queensway’.
A separate map for the Dental School is available from:

School of Dentistry,
University of Birmingham,
St Chads Queensway,
Birmingham, B4 6NN.
Tel: +44 (0)121 237 2763
Fax: +44 (0)121 625 8815
A School of Dentistry
and Children’s Hospital
NHS Trust
B The Beeches
C Hunter Court
D The Vale Village
E Conference Park
F Edgbaston campus
G Medical School
H Jarratt Hall
I Selly Oak campus
J Pritchatts
Maps with more detail can be

found on the University’s website
at www.location.bham.ac.uk
The Selly Oak campus
Maps and directions

key
Key
SY2 Building name

Level access entrance
Steps To City Centre and
Edgbaston Campus
P Public car park W
St Andrew’s Hall EO
LE
Bus stops YP
AR
K
RO
Food and drink SG1 AD
Toilets SG2
SY1
SG4
SG3
The Oaks Day
P Nursery
Crowther Hall
SY2 P
8
SG5 A3 Selly Oak
Visual Arts Centre
AD
RO
SG6
SY3
L
P
TO
IS
BR
ILL
YH
LE
The Close
ED
W
BBC
Drama
SG7 Village
Chapel
Archibald House
P
BBC
Car Park
W
IT
HE
RF
O
RD
W
AY
To Northfield, Longbridge
and M5, junction 4
Green Zone Yellow Zone

SG1 Hamilton Building SY1 Elmfield House
Reception for the – Graduate Institute of
School of Education Theology and Religion
SG2 Frank Price Building – General Cadbury Hall
SG3 Brooksbank Building SY2 George Cadbury Hall
SG4 Mary Burnie House SY3 Charles W Gillett Centre
SG5 Orchard Learning Resources
Centre (OLRC)
– OLRC Teaching Centre Maps with more detail can be
SG6 Alan Geale House found on the University’s website
SG5 Rendezvous Café at www.location.bham.ac.uk
Directions
By Motorway
Approaching from the NW or SE along the M6, leave at Junction 6 (signposted
Birmingham Central) to join the A38(M). At the end of the motorway, keep to the
right, go over a flyover, then through three underpasses to join the A38 Bristol Road.
The University is on your right, two and a half miles from the city centre.
Approaching from the M42 North, leave at Junction 8 to join the M6 northbound
and follow the instructions above.
Approaching from the SW, leave the M5 at Junction 4 (signposted Birmingham SW)
to join the A38. The University is approximately eight miles from the motorway. From
the M40, it is easier to turn south on the M42 and leave at Junction 1, heading north
on the A38 Bristol Road. The University is approximately eight miles from the motorway.
Further information Travel West Midlands (bus)

University of Birmingham Telephone: 0121 200 2700
www.bham.ac.uk www.travelwm.co.uk
Railtrack (rail) National Express (coach)
Telephone: 0345 484950 Telephone: 08705 808080
www.nationalrail.co.uk 08705 747777
Virgin West Coast Customer www.nationalexpress.com
Services (rail) Birmingham International Airport
Telephone: 0870 010 4490 Telephone: 0121 767 5511
Birmingham Tourist Information Office
Telephone: 0870 599 2244
Index
A D
Academic duty and attendance 72 Data protection 74
Academic and Student Administration 18 Dental care 34
Access to Learning Fund (ALF) 44 Disabled students – see
Accommodation services 23 ‘Students with disabilities’ 21
Active Lifestyles Programme (ALP) 82 Discipline 73
Advice and guidance
for international students 23 E
Advice and Representation Effective learning 60
Centre (ARC) 30 English language support 60
Appeals 67 English language support
Art gallery – see ‘Barber Institute’ 83 for international students 28
Attendance 72 Equal opportunities 09
Examination dates 62
B Examination procedures 62
Barber Institute 83
F
C Fees, residential accommodation 40
Careers and Employability Centre 51 Fees, tuition 40
Chamber Choir 89 Final examination timetable 62
Chaplaincy 35 Food and drink 80
Choirs – see Full-time Sabbatical Officers 29
‘University Music Society’ 89
Complaints procedure 73 G
Computing facilities 54 Graduation 95
Continuation fee for doctoral Guide to Effective Learning (GEL) 60
research students 40 Guild Council 28
Copyright and photocopying 75 Guild of Students 28
Council Tax 41
Counselling and Guidance 20 H
Harassment 10
Health and safety 10
Health care 33
I P
International students 45 Payment of residential
International students advisory service 23 accommodation fees 40
Payment of tuition fees 40
J Permanent withdrawal 94
Job Zone 31 Philharmonic Orchestra, University 90
Plagiarism 65
L Point-based immigration
Learning funds – see ‘ALF’ 44 system: information
Learning 48 for visa-national students 24
Library Services 57
Lost property 77 R
Regulations and procedures 71
M Religious observance during
Map – Edgbaston campus 102 examination period 63
Map – Selly Oak campus 105 Representing and supporting you 30
Map – University locations 104
Medical certificates for illness during S
examinations and at other times 66 Sabbatical Officers 29
Medical services 33 Scholarships 44
Meningitis 34 Security 77
Mitigations 65 Sport 81
Mitigation and appeals 73 St Francis Hall – see Chaplaincy 35
Music in the University 89 Statements and transcripts 68
Staying in touch 96
N Student Funding Office 20
Nightline 33 Student groups 31
Nursery 35 Student Mentor Scheme 31
Student portal 55
O Students with alternative examination
Obtaining outside employment 45 arrangements 63
Orchestras 90 Students with disabilities 21
Student Charter 13
Supplementary examinations 63
Symphonic Wind Band 90
Symphony Orchestra, University 90
T
Temporary withdrawal 94
Thesis submission 68
Training – Information and IT Skills 59
Transcripts 68
Tutorial arrangements 49
U
University Choir 89
University legislation 72
University Music Society 89
University Philharmonic Orchestra 90
University Singers 91
University Symphony Orchestra 90
V
Volunteering 32, 53
W
Welcome to the Guild of Students 28
Where to get help,
advice and representation 30
Wind Band, Symphonic 90
Key contacts
Notes
www.bham.ac.uk
Edgbaston, Birmingham,
B15 2TT, United Kingdom
4590 © University of Birmingham 2010. Printed on a recycled grade paper containing 100% post-consumer waste.

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Student Handbook

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Your Student Handbook provides

you with important information

Academic Year 2010–2011

Professor Adrian Randall

1 Equality and diversity statement 4 Money matters

7 Regulations and procedures 9 Preparing to leave the University

The University of Birmingham and its Guild of Students

Equality and diversity

p Ensuring that you are treated fairly and with respect

How does the University work towards achieving these aims?

Equality and diversity statement

Equality and Diversity Adviser (students)

Health and safety

The Student Charter outlines your rights

All students are responsible for:

All students are entitled to:

Academic and Student Administration

ASA enquiry services

Academic and Student Administration

Undergraduate Student Records Team

Postgraduate Taught, CPD and Collaborative Student Records Team

Doctoral Research Student Administration Team

Examinations and Congregations Office

For degree congregation queries please contact:

Student Conduct and Appeals

Student Funding Office

Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 7391

Counselling and Guidance

Referrals to Counselling and Guidance are accepted from:

We encourage self-referral and the majority of service users do self-refer.

Counselling and Guidance

Opening hours – Term-time

Students with disabilities, including specific learning

Disability and Learning Support Service

In terms of University accommodation, every effort is made to meet your accommodation

Accommodation Services @ LIVING

International Student Advisory Service (ISAS)

The new points-based immigration system:

The University is required to keep:

The University is required to report to UK Border Agency:

For new students coming to the University of Birmingham, a Confirmation of Acceptance

Student Visa Extension Applications

Immigration Advice and Services

Bringing your family to the UK

Email Advice Service

How to contact ISAS

Telephone: +44 (0)121 414 8464

English language support for international students

Westmere (G15 on the University map)

How does the Guild work?

The Officer Team

The Guild and NUS (National Union of Students)

Why do you need representation?

Guild membership benefits and services

Advice and Representation Centre (ARC)

The Job Zone

Community Warden Scheme

Student Mentor Scheme

Student groups, societies and associations

Useful Guild contact details

Nightline Student Mentor Scheme

Student Groups, Societies and National Union of Students

Drug and alcohol policy