FACULTY OF DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING

UNDERGRADUATE
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2013/14
CONTENTS Page

WELCOME TO THE SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING 4

ENGINEERING - WHO WE ARE 5

Innovative Thinking 5

HOW THE SCHOOL WORKS 7

Programme Leaders 7
Course Leaders 7
Module Co-ordinators 7
Year Tutors 7
Personal Tutors 8
The Administrative Team 8
Technical Services Officers / Engineering Applications Supervisors 8
Janitors 9
Security 9

ACADEMIC STUDY 10
Enrolment 10
Fees 10
Student Journey 10

TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT 11

Timetables 11
Course Delivery 11
Lectures, Labs & Tutorials 11
Academic Calendar Session 2013-14 12
Attendance & Punctuality 12
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) 12
Project Work 12
Assessments 13
Examinations 13
Coursework and Submission 13
Extenuating Circumstances Claims 14
Coursework Extensions 14
Feedback on Coursework & Examinations 14
Assessment Results 15
Grading Scheme 15
Progression 15
External Examiners 16

ACADEMIC REGULATIONS 17

PROFESSIONAL ACCREDITATION 18

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION 19
Communication 19
Health and Personal Safety 20
Lone Working/Out of Normal Working Hours 20
Fire Procedures 20
Evacuation Procedures 20
SUPPORT FACILITIES 21
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 2
 Computing Facilities 21
Printing 21
Library 22
Past Examination Papers 22

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES 23

The Study Skills and Access Unit 23
Counselling 23
Disability Advice and Support 23
Careers and Employability Centre 23
Tree House Early Care & Education Centre 24
Chaplaincy Service 24
Finance 24

FURTHER INFORMATION 25
Placement 25
Equality and Diversity 25
The Universitys Social Media Toolkit & Conduct/Behaviour
in the Virtual Environment 25
Student Conduct and Appeals 25
Student Complaints 25
Student Representation 25
Student Association/Union 26
Staff 26
Special Costs 26
Lockers 26
Smoking 26
Transport 26
Accommodation 27
Canteens/Refectories 27
More Information 27

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AND TIER 4 VISAS 28

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 30

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 3

WELCOME TO THE SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING

Dear New Students,

I am pleased to welcome you to the School of Engineering at Robert Gordon

University. The University prides itself on its strong links with industry and the
quality of its teaching staff. During your time on your chosen course you will
engage with lecturers, consultants, researchers and advisors, many of whom are
invited to the University as practising engineers, thus providing students with a
unique balance of theory and practice. The school staff and I, very much look
forward to welcoming you to the University and supporting you through your
studies.

This Handbook is intended to be an introduction to your study at the School and

the environment in which you will be studying. The Handbook contains general
information which you may find of use throughout the course and specific
information for use at particular stages of the course and we hope this will be of
use to you.

We wish you well with your studies.

Professor J.A. Steel

Head of School of Engineering
ENGINEERING WHO WE ARE

The School of Engineering is at the technological heart

of the city of Aberdeen and its industries. Aberdeen is
the energy capital of Europe, and the School of
Engineering is an international focus for the many
technologies associated with energy. We combine a
wide range of expertise in engineering with fantastic
facilities and strong commercial links. We work closely
with local, national and international companies to
ensure that we continue to provide professional learning
that meets the demands of employers. The result is an
impressive suite of flexible degree programmes at all
levels.

The School has modern, purpose built laboratories and IT facilities which utilise
the latest Engineering technology and equipment to enhance the learning
experience. School of Engineering Staff boast a very wide range of expertise,
and this is reflected in the portfolio of innovative and flexible degree
programmes which are offered within the School covering the areas of:

Mechanical Engineering

Offshore Engineering

Mechanical and Electrical Engineering

Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Innovative Thinking

Professional Engineers have a reputation for their ability to solve problems and
to undertake challenging and complex problems in all walks of life. At Robert
Gordon University we combine a wide range of expertise in engineering with the
purpose built facilities and strong commercial links. Working closely with local,
national and international companies ensures that we continue to provide
professional learning that meets the demands of employers. The result is an
impressive suite of flexible degree programmes at all levels.

The School enjoys close links with industry, particularly in the oil and gas industry.
These links include student sponsorship and prizes; assistance in the
development of courses and course contents; contribution to courses through
lectures, reviews and case study material; employment of students on vocational
placements.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 5

Staff are also actively involved with research, consultancy, and the provision of
specialist short courses for industry.
In addition to consultancy activities a number of staff are active in the field of
research. The School has major research projects in the areas of energy and the
environment, biomaterials and video communications. The School employs a
number of Research Fellows and Research Assistants to work on the various
research projects and also provides opportunities for research leading to the
Degrees of MPhil and PhD.

Engineering at RGU means taking today's technology and transforming it for use
tomorrow.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 6

HOW THE SCHOOL WORKS

The Head of School and Associate Head of School are responsible

for the overall management of the School of Engineering. Courses
are grouped together in Programmes, these being the Undergraduate and
Postgraduate Programmes and responsibility for the management of these is
structured as follows:

Discipline Leaders have overall responsibility for the management of the

Electrical and Mechanical courses.

Mechanical - Dr Jenny McConnachie

Electrical - Mr Phil Robinson

Course Leaders have responsibility for their individual courses, under the
Discipline Leaders.

Full-Time

BEng (Hons)/ MEng Electronic and Electrical Engineering Mr Graeme Dunbar

BEng (Hons)/ MEng Mechanical Engineering Dr Jenny McConnachie

BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical & Offshore Engineering Dr Jenny McConnachie

BEng (Hons) / MEng Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Dr Jenny

McConnachie

Part-Time

BSc (Eng) in Electronic and Electrical Engineering Mr Phil Robinson

BSc (Eng) in Mechanical Engineering Mr Phil Robinson

Module Co-ordinators have specific responsibility for the teaching and

assessment of individual Modules. Any problems which you might have with
subject content should be discussed with the appropriate Module Co-ordinator.

Year Tutors have a specific responsibility to answer student queries.

Stage 1 students Dr Sha Jihan

Stage 2 Mechanical students Dr Mamdud Hossain

Stage 3 Mechanical students Mr Douglas Robertson

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 7

Stage 4 or 5 Mechanical students Dr Jenny McConnachie

Stage 2, 3, 4 or 5 Electrical students Mr Graeme Dunbar

Personal Tutors are allocated to every student. The objective of the Personal
Tutor scheme is to try to ensure that students who have problems of any kind,
not necessarily of an academic nature, receive advice or assistance as early as
possible. University guidance can be found here.

The Administrative Team are available to assist students with general

enquiries. The Admin Team are located in room N320 on Level 03 of Riverside
East, Garthdee.

Mrs June Kenyon - Programme Administrator (j.kenyon@rgu.ac.uk)

Mrs Sharon Mess - Administrative Assistant (s.mess@rgu.ac.uk)

Mrs Debbie Downer- Administrative Assistant (d.c.r.downer@rgu.ac.uk)

Mrs Naomi Matthews - Clerical Assistant (n.matthews@rgu.ac.uk)

Please let them know of any changes of circumstances and any alternative
arrangement requirements. They issue examination timetables and student
transcripts and are responsible for maintaining student records within the School.
Please inform them of any notice of illness or extenuating circumstances (that is,
circumstances which may have affected your ability to complete examinations or
coursework). Any change of address should be notified to the University
through RGyoU.

Technical Services Officers and Engineering Applications Supervisors are

available to assist you with certain practical work such as in the Schools
workshops. Arrangements for assistance from them should be made through
Project Supervisors, the Technical Services Coordinator (Alan McLean) or the
Senior EA Supervisor (Gavin Murison). Due to their responsibilities to the whole
School, please do not expect TSOs or EA Supervisors to be available at short
notice and please co-operate with them by complying with the Health & Safety
Regulations.

Engineering Applications Supervisors

Gavin Murison - (g.murison@rgu.ac.uk) N328

Steve Allardyce - (s.allardyce@rgu.ac.uk) N325

Les McLaren - (l.mclaren@rgu.ac.uk) N325

John Still - (j.still@rgu.ac.uk) N328

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 8

Technical Services Officers

Alan McLean - (a.j.mclean@rgu.ac.uk) N320b

David Smith - (d.a.g.smith@rgu.ac.uk) N249g

Scott Murison - (s.murison1@rgu.ac.uk) N249

James Murray - (ext.murray10@rgu.ac.uk) N249g

David Howie - (d.howie@rgu.ac.uk) N451

Leslie Ough - (l.ough@rgu.ac.uk) N451

Andy Ross - (a.s.ross@rgu.ac.uk) N318

Allan MacPherson - (a.macpherson@rgu.ac.uk) N249g

Martin Johnstone - (m.johnstone@rgu.ac.uk) N249g

Janitors

The Janitors are responsible for the security of the premises; their instructions
should be respected regarding the use, evacuation and closure of the buildings.

Security

All students and staff must clearly show their ID (Student ID Card/Staff
ID card) at all times. Please exercise care in looking after your own property,
particularly since so many people use the Riverside East building.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 9

ACADEMIC STUDY

Enrolment

ALL students must enrol at the start of each Session, whether they are new
students or continuing from the previous Session.

There is no fee for enrolment, as such, but the enrolment process identifies you
as a student at RGU for record purposes. You receive a student card which
allows you entry to the premises and permits you to use facilities such as the
library and computer terminal rooms. You may be required to produce this card
at any time when you are on RGU premises. You will be required to display it
during examinations.

Enrolment can be done online or in person. Full details can be obtained here.

Fees

Students on certain courses may need to pay fees, should this be the case the
student would be informed in advance. Fees are payable on a per-session basis
at the time of enrolment. University regulations require the fees to be paid
before you start to attend classes.

There is no additional fee for sitting a module examination but a resit fee per
module is payable if you fail an assessment (examination or coursework).

Details of current fees and payment methods can be obtained here.

Student Journey

This link takes you to an interactive timeline which represents the student
journey within Robert Gordon University and gives information on; Enrolment,
Induction, Studying, Placement, Assessment and Graduation.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 10

TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT

Timetables

Course-specific timetables will be allocated by each course

and can be found here or on CampusMoodle under Timetable
Links on the right-hand side.

Course Delivery

The courses are delivered on a modular basis by a

combination of lectures, tutorials, computer based
learning and laboratory activities. Assessment is
designed as an integral part of the learning process
and takes the form of written reports, logbooks, in-
class assessments and written examinations.

Module content and assessment strategies are contained in the appropriate

module descriptor; these should be available under the respective module
headings on the University CampusMoodle, you should also find course notes
here as well.

Although the content of the courses is under the control of the School of
Engineering staff, and most of the core subject material is dealt with by them,
some of the lecturers you will work with are from other Schools within the
University. These servicing lecturers, as they are termed, are specialists in
such areas as management and mathematics, etc.

Information on each course can be found in the Course Information Database.

Lectures, Labs and Tutorials

During your studies a considerable proportion of the course content will be

delivered to you via lecture, laboratory and tutorial sessions. These have
different purposes and it is very important that you attend. Lectures are
designed to provide an outline of the topic under discussion and are an aid to
further study. Laboratory sessions offer the opportunity to implement what has
been discussed in lectures. Tutorials comprise of small group discussions and
student centred activities based on lecture and lab work in which there is an
opportunity to share and develop ideas with fellow students and the teaching
staff. Learning during tutorials will be facilitated by engaging in private study
prior to attendance.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 11

Academic Calendar Session 2013 - 14

The Academic Calendar can be viewed here. Reading weeks are provided each
semester as a non-contact period to allow students a block of time and access to
facilities and resources within the University to prepare their work for
assessment. During weeks 2-13 of Semester 1 and 1-12 of Semester 2 all time
is accounted for within set projects and assignments. It is therefore essential to
use the reading weeks productively and not view them as additional holiday
periods. For many students the Reading weeks allow students to revise both the
quality and quantity of work which ultimately enhances their performance on the
course.

Attendance & Punctuality

It goes without saying that your attendance and commitment to your education
is important. A register of attendance is kept by each individual course tutor.
This profile of your attendance is recorded throughout your course and may be
taken into consideration should your performance fall below the required
standards set by the School.

At tutorials, seminars, lectures and project briefings (i.e. timetabled events), it is

essential that you are punctual if you are to keep informed and on track with
your studies. The nature of these events means they cannot be repeated.

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

If a previous course of study or work based training has covered some of the
material of the course, then it may be possible for you to receive Accreditation of
Prior Learning for particular modules. This will be discussed and confirmed with
your Course Leader on an individual basis. Other circumstances, e.g. partial
completion of a course at another University, will be considered on an individual
basis. Documentary evidence is required to support all applications for
Accreditation of Prior Learning. You should discuss this with your Course Leader
as soon as you join the course.

APL or credit transfer (CT) is not permitted in the final year of an undergraduate
degree course.

Project Work

Project modules are an integral part of all Engineering courses. Full details on
project work can be found in the in the individual modules on CampusMoodle.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 12

Assessments

Assessment of performance on the course is by an appropriate combination of

examination and/or coursework (continuous assessment). Module Performance
Descriptors are attached to individual modules in CampusMoodle and are useful
in understanding assessment criteria.

University regulations permit a maximum of THREE attempts at each examination

or coursework submission. (A non submission is regarded as an attempt). Failure
at the final attempt means that no further progression is possible on the course.
If you have not been able to attend your first attempt examination or complete
your coursework due to extenuating circumstances i.e. illness, matters outwith
your control, then it is essential that you complete an extenuating circumstances
form and submit documentary evidence to support this claim.

Students who are in their honours year are not permitted any further attempts
at examinations and coursework. However, the Assessment Board may
exceptionally permit one further attempt. Further details can be found in
Academic Regulation A4:Assessment and Recommendations of Assessment
Boards, paragraph 6.3 which can be downloaded here.

Examinations

Examinations are held at the ends of semester 1 and semester 2. There is a

further (resit) diet of examinations in August for both the semester 1 and
semester 2 modules. You should make every effort to attend the first
examination diet in each case.

Examination candidates who have problems which may affect their performance
(e.g. dyslexia, problems with hearing etc.) may be eligible for special assistance
in examinations. The Disability and Dyslexia Centre can provide further
information.

Calculators may be used in examinations, but it is not permitted to take a

calculator into an examination room with information or formulae stored inside
it. For further info see the University policy here.

The exam timetable is emailed to all students and is available on the School
website as soon as it is published.

Coursework and Submission

The continuous assessment element is generally referred to as coursework.

Coursework must be the exclusive work of the individual unless clearly specified
to be a group submission. You will be required to sign a statement to this effect.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 13

Coursework submission will be 12 noon unless otherwise specified by the module
tutor. Submission will either be electronic or via the post-boxes located on Level
03 of the Riverside East Building and students will be informed of this at the time
of issue. Coursework must have the appropriate front cover attached to it,
completed and signed by you. The front cover sheet will be made available to
download from the module on CampusMoodle. Do not to deliver or send
coursework exercises directly to individual members of staff.
(It is a good idea to keep a copy of your submissions).

The Module Co-ordinator will provide coursework submission dates, for their
module, early in each semester. Students are expected to complete the
coursework in time to meet the deadlines for its submission. However, staff will
treat sympathetically written requests from students, on the Extenuating
Circumstances Form, for an extension if there is a legitimate reason for not being
able to meet the specified deadline.

Extenuating Circumstances Claims

There are guidelines regarding extenuating circumstances claims. Extenuating

Circumstances are exceptional, serious and acute problems or events which
genuinely affect your performance in your assessments or your ability to complete
coursework on time. Forms are available either from module ENS101 on
CampusMoodle or from here.

Complete and return the form no later than:

The coursework submission date

Five working days after the examination to which your claim relates.

Coursework Extensions

Extensions are only granted for exceptional, serious and acute problems or
events which genuinely affected your ability to complete coursework on time.
You must complete an Extenuating Circumstances Form. Forms are available
either from module ENS101 on CampusMoodle or from here.

Complete and return the form no later than the coursework submission date.

Feedback on Coursework and Examinations

You will be given written feedback on any coursework/s you do within twenty
working days of the final hand in date if the due date is not within the last four
teaching weeks. If you do not receive this information, please advise Debbie
Downer (d.c.r.downer@rgu.ac.uk).

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 14

Examination feedback can be given on request. Students who wish to view their
marked exam papers can submit this form; however priority will be given to
students who failed the exam. Arrangements will be made for all coursework
assessments to be viewed after the end of each semester.

Assessment Results

Examination and Coursework results are available to students via RGyoU shortly
after the Assessment Committee/Board has considered them. This is usually in
February for Semester 1 assessments, June for Semester 2 assessments and
August/September for resit assessments. The results provided in February are
provisional only and are finalised in June.

Grading Scheme

The University uses a grading scheme for all module results. The University will
use percentage marking for individual assessment components, combining to an
overall letter grade, as below.

Grade Generic Definition

A EXCELLENT: Outstanding Performance
B COMMENDABLE: Meritorious Performance
C GOOD: Competent Performance
D SATISFACTORY: Adequate performance
E THRESHOLD: Borderline fail, open to compensation
F FAIL
NS NON SUBMISSION

As a guide, the above grades can be related to a percentage scale as follows:-

Grade A = 70% or more Grade B = 60% - 69% Grade C= 50% -
59%
Grade D = 40% - 49% Grade E = 35% - 39% Grade F = 0% -
34%

Honours classification is determined by the grade profile and performance in

modules defined as central to the objectives of the course. Details can be found
in Academic Regulation A4:Assessment and Recommendations of Assessment
Boards, paragraph 6.2 which is available here.

Progression

Progression to the next stage will normally be on satisfactory completion of all

modules in the previous stage.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 15

External Examiners

Students must not make direct contact with External Examiners. External
Examiners are required to inform the University of any contact made by a
student; this will be dealt with as misconduct.

Electrical Courses

Name Position Institution/Organisati

on
Dr Douglas Senior Lecturer Napier University,
Henderson School of Engineering & Built Edinburgh
Environment

Mechanical Courses

Name Position Institution/Organisati

on
Prof Jonathan Head of Department University of Strathclyde,
Corney Department of Design, Manufacture & Glasgow
Engineering Management
Dr Donald Ballance Convener of Learning & Teaching University of Glasgow
School of Engineering
Dr Andrew Associate Professor & Director of University of Nottingham,
Spowage Studies Malaysia
Department of Mechanical, Materials &
Manufacturing Engineering

All students have the right to request to see a full External Examiner Annual
Report (with the exception of confidential reports) for their course of study.
Students are required to give prior notice to the School to enable access with
supervision to be arranged at a mutually agreeable time and place.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 16

ACADEMIC REGULATIONS
The School will endeavour to ensure, through following quality assurance and
quality control procedures that your experience as a student will be of a high
quality. A copy of the Universitys Academic Quality Handbook is available for
inspection in the library or here.

The Universitys Academic Regulations apply to all educational provision offered

by the University which bears academic credit, and details procedures covering
aspects of your experience such as student conduct, appeals, complaints and
assessment.

The Regulations are available in full via RGyoU under the my results tab or
here.

Academic Misconduct Plagiarism

The University has well-defined regulations about Academic Misconduct. This

includes plagiarism (presenting someone else's work as if it is your own) and
collusion (two or more students working together and then attempting to present
this as their individual work. Helping another student to commit academic
misconduct is also in itself academic misconduct.

It is your responsibility to be aware of these regulations. This information will be

covered at induction and further information is available on in CampusMoodle
module ENS101.

Plagiarism detection software is used and cases are dealt with according to
academic regulations.

Academic Honesty

When completing an assignment, students undertake research and in-depth study

of the topic in focus. If a student submits an assignment that is not their own
work, for example, then they are not only acting dishonestly but demonstrate a
lack of respect for staff and students (who complete the assignment honestly) as
well as disregard for the academic process. The University and the Students
Union expect all student work will be completed with honesty and integrity. More
information regarding Academic Honesty can be found here.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 17

PROFESSIONAL ACCREDITATION

A strong indicator of the quality and relevance of our courses is

our excellent record of accreditation from professional
organisations, the best in the UK. Accreditation means that our courses have
passed stringent quality tests and that our graduates are eligible to gain further
professional qualifications such as Chartered Engineer or Incorporated Engineer
status.

The Energy Institute fully accredits the MSc courses

Asset Integrity Management, Oil and Gas Engineering,
Petroleum Production Engineering and Drilling and Well
Engineering. The Energy Institute (EI) is the leading
professional body for the energy industries.

The Institution of Engineering and Technology fully

accredit all MEng/BEng courses connected to Electronic
and Electrical Engineering. The IET provides a global
knowledge network to facilitate the exchange of ideas
and promote the positive role of science, engineering
and technology in the world.

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers fully accredits

all MEng/BEng courses connected to Mechanical
Engineering. The Institution of Mechanical Engineers is
the fastest growing professional engineering institution
in the UK.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 18

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

Communication

It is essential that you check your RGU email account on a daily basis as this is
will be the main form of communication for the Admin staff and some lecturers.
You must also regularly check CampusMoodle for general course information and
for notifications of class changes/cancellations. For general University
information you need to refer to RGyoU.

E-Mail

All students are provided with an individual e-Mail address. Instructions for the
use of this facility can be found here and guidance will be given during induction.
Assistance is also available from IT Services. Students are reminded that abuse
of this facility leads to both withdrawal of E-Mail address and disciplinary action.
Further details can be found here.

RGyoU

RGyoU (previously known as the Student Portal) is a key resource which

provides access to information and services. RGyoU can be accessed using your
standard IT username and password and it contains information on support
services (such as Careers, the Library Service and the Student Association) and
can also provide you with access to CampusMoodle and the Outlook email
system. An Extenuating Circumstances Form, which is used to inform the
Assessment Board about any matter that has affected your assessment
performance, can also be accessed in RGyoU under the My Results tab. You
should use RGyoU to update your contact details.

CampusMoodle

Academic Staff will use CampusMoodle to contact you, issue course materials and
coursework. You can use it to contact your Tutors; the facility is available 24
hours a day, 7 days a week and can be accessed from outwith the University.
The aims and objectives of CampusMoodle are:
to provide a high quality intranet that will support both staff and students
across the Faculty
to improve staff/student communications
to provide open access to learning resources for students
to provide administration tools to help staff deliver the courses.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 19

Noticeboards

Notice Boards are located in the Undergraduate Office N320 in the Riverside East
Building. Information regarding Assessment, Timetables, Employment and Social
Events, etc. are posted on these Boards.

Health and Personal Safety

All students and staff must adhere to the guidelines published in the current
Health & Safety Regulation document during working hours at the University.

The School has a comprehensive Health and Safety Booklet which will be
available to all students. Take note of any advice provided regarding use of
equipment, supervision and protective clothing in workshops from Technical
Services Officers or on noticeboards. For reference, the Student H&S Handbook is
located in Moodle module ENS101.

Lone Working/Out of Normal Working Hours

Access to Riverside East for office/computer based work/studies is between

07:00 22:30.

Access for Workshop/lab related work is between 07:30 16:30 (excepting

supervised activities).

Applications for lone working/out of hours outwith the stipulated time frame
must be submitted to the Head of School along with an Out Of Hours application
form and a Lone Working Risk Assessment form. Lone working without
authorisation is subject to disciplinary action. More information can be found
here.

Fire Procedures

Notices are in place which give instructions to be followed in the event of the fire
alarm sounding (in Riverside East this is a vocal announcement). Please make
yourself familiar with these instructions and the alarm bell which is tested on a
regular basis.

Evacuation Procedures

This link explains the evacuation procedures from the Riverside East building on
the Garthdee Campus. [TO BE UPDATED]

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 20

SUPPORT FACILITIES

All enrolled students have full access to the Universitys

comprehensive support facilities which include:

Computing Facilities

As an enrolled student, you will be allocated a password to gain access to the

computer network in the School.

Note: if you forget your username or password please contact the IT Helpdesk.

There are three general teaching IT labs in Riverside East: N339, N340 and
N341. They will be booked for teaching, but any time they are not scheduled for
use; students will be free to use them.

Only authorised users are allowed into the computer labs which are strictly NO
EATING/DRINKING areas. Students are also only allowed to use the software
which has been pre-loaded onto the network. Any student found using "illegal"
software will be subject to disciplinary proceedings. You should be aware that
software available on the network is normally covered by a site licence and must
not be used outwith the site.
Use of network services may be monitored for inappropriate use of Internet
and storage of inappropriate material. Contravention of University policies on the
use of IT facilities may result in withdrawal of your IT user rights and
disciplinary action. Each student has a limited space on the Network and you
should manage your work so as not to exceed this limit by regularly backing up
your files onto your own media. Further details can be found here.

Printing

Printing and photocopying facilities are available throughout the University

campus. You can check your print account and pay into it here or via one the
kiosks on campus. At Riverside East the kiosks are located on Level 07 of the
library and in the Reprographics Unit in the refectory on Level 01. For more help
visit this page see HERE.

Students can also make use of the services provided by The Gatehouse, Design
and Print Consultancy. Visit them in the west corner of the Garthdee campus or
visit their page for more information.

Please note that you should plan your work in order to allow time for
printing, particularly at periods of high demand when submissions are
due.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 21

Library

The library facility for the Engineering School is located on Level 09 of the library
tower in the Riverside East building at Garthdee.

The library has a comprehensive range of books, journals and other reference
material, including computer-based search facilities. There is also a reading
room and a loan service, for which your student card must be produced.

Details of the library opening hours are available here.

Past Examination Papers

Copies of previous examination papers are available here.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 22

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

The Study Skills and Access Unit

The Study Skills and Access Unit exists to encourage all existing and potential
learners to achieve their full potential. It aims to promote and support equality
of access to higher education and to help learners develop the skills required for
success in the contemporary educational environment. The Unit offers support
for study skills, math and numeracy, basic IT skills, writing and English language
support (for international students).

They provide free and confidential support in a range of study skills offering one-
to-one appointments with study support tutors tailored to students individual
needs, or small group and class sessions.

Contact: 01224 263089 Email: studyskills@rgu.ac.uk

Counselling

RGU has a Student Counselling and Wellbeing Centre which offers private and
confidential counselling to all students on a wide range of issues.

Dyslexia and Disability Advice and Support

The Disability and Dyslexia Centre provides advice and support to students who
have study needs relating to a disability, medical condition or specific learning
difficulty such as Dyslexia. On top of this the service provides advice and support
to staff to help them, in turn, support their students effectively.

Each School has a Disability Co-ordinator. Disability Co-ordinator for the School of
Engineering is Mrs Susan Middleton (PG Programme Administrator). Advice and
support is also available from Student Services.

Careers and Employability Centre

An Engineering degree opens up an exciting range of potential career options.

Please feel free to discuss career plans with your personal/year tutor as early as
you feel necessary.

The Careers and Employability Centre provides a range of services to all

undergraduates and graduates of the University.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 23

Tree House Early Care & Education Centre

The Tree House Early Care and Education Centre provides early care and
education for babies and children aged from 3 months to 5 years of age.

Chaplaincy Service

The Chaplaincy Service at RGU is available for people of all faiths and none.

Finance

Information relating to student finance matters can be accessed here.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 24

FURTHER INFORMATION

Placement
Certain Engineering courses have industrial placements as an integral part of the
course. The Faculty Placement Office's main role is organising relevant practical
experience opportunities for students as part of their academic requirements.
The aim of an industrial placement is to give students the opportunity to gain a
structured learning experience within a professional/industrial environment. This
in turn allows them to consolidate and broaden the knowledge that they have
gained in their academic studies to date. Not only does this help during their final
year of study, but it also enhances the students' employability. Please see here
for more information or look at the placement module in CampusMoodle.

Equality and Diversity

The University is committed to the active promotion of equality across its

functions and to addressing issues of discriminatory practice towards students,
staff and external stakeholders. Further information on this is available at here.
If you have any comments regarding discrimination or believe you have been
subject to discrimination, please contact an appropriate member of staff within
the School or alternatively the Student Services Manager, Dr Pamela Tosh
(p.tosh@rgu.ac.uk).

The Universitys Social Media Toolkit and Conduct/Behaviour in the

Virtual Environment

The University supports the responsible use of social media and encourages
active engagement with our increasingly connected world. But remember when
you publish anything on-line it needs to be decent, honest, truthful and you
must not share confidential information. See The Right Click; our social media
toolkit for our best practice guide on how to get safely on-line.

Student Conduct and Appeals

This section introduces you to the procedures relating to student conduct and
appeals. Detailed information on University Academic Regulations can be
accessed here.

Student Complaints

More information about appeals and complaints procedures can be found here.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 25

Student Representation

Within the University there are a number of different types of student reps. The
largest group by far are the course reps followed by faculty reps and then
sabbatical (full-time, paid) officers of the Students Association. More
information can be found here.

Student Association/Union

Making new friends and enjoying new experiences is an important aspect of

student life. Details of the RGU Student Association can be found here.

Staff

Staff details are available here.

Special Costs

Each student is issued with a full set of results (transcripts) when they graduate.
For any additional copies a fee of 10 applies per stage of study (e.g. a four-
year course will cost 40). Transcripts are issued through the Undergraduate
Administration office; please contact Naomi Matthews, n.matthews@rgu.ac.uk.

If your degree certificate is lost, stolen or damaged you may request a

replacement through the Student Records Team. If they are able to process the
request, there is a fee of 35.

Please regard your Results Reports and Degree Certificate as valuable and keep
them in a safe place.

Lockers

A limited number of public lockers are available for use of students. The lockers
require a pound coin or a token and should be emptied on a daily basis. They are
located at the rear of the building, predominantly on Level 02: a locker room is
behind the research drum and there are banks of lockers by the rear fire exits.

Smoking

Please note that NO smoking is permitted in any of the University premises. The
RGU Smoking Policy can be read here

The policy statement contains maps detailing non-smoking zones and, where
provided, the locations of smoking shelters. The policy also covers the use of
electronic cigarettes.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 26

Transport

Full details about car parking, car sharing, cycling, parking and public transport
can be found here.

Accommodation

Information on student accommodation can be accessed here.

Canteens/Refectories

There is a wide range of catering outlets across campus to suit all needs. This
includes Costa, Starbucks and Cafeology. The main outlet at Riverside East will
be a Costa, there will also be a Wraps and Flats outlet and a Superbox Outlet.
Most outlets are open from 08:30 onwards each day and have a variety of food
and drink to suit all needs. There is a cashless card system to save you always
having to take cash with you.

More information on locations and opening times can be found here.

More Information?

For further information, please refer to the Intranet and the Schools web page
see links below:

http://www.rgu.ac.uk/

http://www.rgu.ac.uk/eng/

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 27

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AND TIER 4 VISAS

The University is a licensed sponsor for Tier 4 of the UK Borders Agency (UKBA)
points-based immigration system. We have clearly defined duties as a sponsor -
things that we must tell the UKBA about.

What this means in practice is that:

If you are thinking about changing your course, leaving your course or
temporarily suspending studies (even if only for a short time), then you
must seek the advice of the International Student Advisers (located in the
Student Services Building in Garthdee) before any change is made. Once a
change has been made, the university will have to report this to the UKBA,
which may affect your leave to remain in the UK.

If you fall behind with your fee payments, you may be withdrawn for non-
payment of fees. If you are withdrawn for non-payment of fees, this change of
status is immediate and permanent, and the university will have to report this to
the UKBA. If you pay your fees at a later date and if your School agrees that you
can continue with your studies you will have to make a fresh visa application to
allow you to commence your studies.

Your School will be monitoring your attendance on a regular basis. All

Schools will have a warning system in place and will contact you if you are
missing an unacceptable number of interactions. An interaction is defined as
attendance at a core lecture every week, submitting coursework and attendance
at an exam. However if you do miss 10 consecutive interactions, the university
will have to report you to the UKBA, with serious consequences for your student
visa status.

As a Tier 4 student you have certain privileges. These include being entitled to
work part-time (up to 20 hours) during term-time and full-time during holidays,
as well as the right to apply for post-study work visa on graduation, which allows
you to stay and work in the UK for up to 2 years. Please note that you can only
work full time during the universitys official holidays if you are not preparing for
exams or resits, doing coursework or writing essays / dissertation / thesis or
project.

However you also have certain responsibilities, and these are as follows:

You must provide the university with your up-to-date contact details. If these
change during the academic year, you must inform the university as soon as
possible. The easiest way to do this is via RGyoU.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 28

You must provide the university with a copy of your passport and current
visa. We will collect these from you at enrolment at the beginning of each year.
However if your documents change for example you get a new passport,
biometric card or extend your visa then you must give a copy of the new
documents to the university as soon as possible. You can do this at The Student
Help Point which can be found in the St Andrew Street library or on Level 03 of
the Faculty of Health and Social Care Building, Garthdee.

We strongly advise you to tell us if you are unable to attend lectures,

tutorials etc. because of illness or any other valid reason. You should do this by
informing your School directly.

You must not work more than 20 hours per week during term-time.

Further information on visas and immigration issues can be obtained from the
International Student Advice, Visa and Immigration Service.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 29

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What do I do if I have been away from the University during

term-time?
For absences up to 1 teaching week (i.e. 5 consecutive working days) students must complete
and submit a self-declaration of absence form which can be downloaded from CampusMoodle
module ENS101. For absences longer than 1 teaching week students must complete an
Extenuating Circumstances form and submit it with evidence.

Do I have a voice?
Class representatives for every stage of each course are chosen at the start of the session.
They will gather the views of their classmates and convey these constructively at University
meetings and to staff members. More information about Student involvement can be found
here.

Staff-Student Liaison Committee

The School of Engineering operates a Staff-Student Liaison Committee. Meetings are held
once per semester to discuss any issues arising and these meetings are your opportunity to
put forward your views on the learning and teaching you are receiving. The committee
comprises relevant staff members and student representatives who are elected by their
colleagues. Students are represented at School Academic Board meetings, Faculty meetings
and Health & Safety meetings

Does the UG office do photocopying/printing/scanning for students?

No, you will have to use one of the copiers provided by the University. There is a reprographics
unit on Level 02 of Riverside East. There will be a charge for this.
We will photocopy evidence which is being submitted with Extenuating Circumstances forms.

Does the UG office provide card, paper, pens, CDs etc?

No, we do not provide stationery for students; you can try the student shop in the refectory on
Level 02 of Riverside East. We only provide stationery if the lecturers have requested that we
do so. However, we do provide a stapler, sellotape and a glue stick in the office for coursework
submission.

Can the UG office give me a copy of my timetable?

No, this is available from Moodle and CELCAT.

Can the UG office give me a copy of my results?

Generally no, these are made available via RGyoU after the Assessment Boards have met.
If you require additional copies of your transcripts there will be a charge of 10 per sheet.
However, if you require a copy of your results i.e. after semester 1 for a scholarship or other
official reasons, please ask and we will provide this free of charge.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 30

Where is my lecturer?
All Engineering staff work in office N447. Students are advised to email or phone to make an
appointment as they will not be given access to this office. You can check staff timetables
which are available via Moodle.
If a staff member is not in a class and not in their office, the UG Office staff do not know where
they are.

Room ??? has run out of paper, can I get more from the UG office?
No. Details of who to contact for printer problems will be listed next to each printer.

Can I have my mail sent to RGU?

Not without prior permission. If you urgently need something important delivered and will not
be around to receive it, please ask us.
Any mail sent to us will be kept for 4 weeks. After this date it will be returned to sender or
destroyed. The UG office will email you informing you that there is mail to collect.

Can the UG office change my contact details?

No, you have to do this via RGyoU. Please ensure that you keep your details current.

Ive forgotten my password, can the UG office help?

No, please visit the student help point.

Is there a lost property place?

Any lost property should be passed on to the reception desk.

I am interested in applying for a Scholarship, what do I do?

There is information here about the Scholarships you can apply for.
If you need more information, please email Margaret Jenkins.

Ive just received an email saying my coursework has been received, does this mean
I can get it back?
No, this email is a receipt; it just tells you that the Admin Team have your coursework.
You will be emailed at a different time asking you to come collect your coursework from the UG
office.

Where/when will I find out if I passed the year?

Your results transcript will be released through RGyoU after the Assessment Boards have met
in June.

Who do I go to with personal issues/problems in my studies?

You should contact your personal tutor or any member of the Admin Team. There is also the
free student counselling service.

How will important student information be communicated to me?

The School of Engineering staff will always communicate any significant information to
students via their RGU email addresses, Campus Moodle or RGyoU.
There are also student notice boards in N320 containing useful information.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 31

Who do I go to with visa issues?
International students must contact the international office for all visa issues including typing
and issuing of letters.

Does every module have an exam?

No, different modules have different assessments e.g. some are 100% coursework.
The Module Performance Descriptors are available for all modules via CampusMoodle.

When are the exams held?

There are 3 main exam diets -January, May and August.
Students on the MEng courses may also have exams in September.

How long are the exams?

Exams are usually between 2 and 3 hours.

What does the coursework consist of, when is it issued and when is it due to be
handed in?
This will vary across modules. Details of coursework requirements will be available via Moodle.
This will state the type of coursework and the submission requirements (date and time).
Students must download and complete a Coursework Submission Sheet, available via Moodle.
This form must be securely attached to the coursework. Coursework should be stapled at the
top left corner only, do not use any other binding or submit in a polypocket. It should then be
posted into the correct drop box. Coursework boxes are located to the rear of the building on
Level 03. Some pieces of coursework will be submitted directly to the UG office or
electronically to Turnitin but your lecturer will inform you of this.
All coursework boxes will close at 12pm (noon) on the date of submission; there are no
exceptions without prior arrangement with the lecturer.

A student thinks he/she may need more time to finish the coursework. What can
they do?
Complete an Extenuating Circumstances Form and tick the coursework extension request box.
Submit this with evidence to the UG Office.
Your case will then be considered by the module lecturer and a decision will be emailed to you.
Please take time to read the instructions that are with the form as they detail what is and
isnt an extenuating circumstance. The form is available via Moodle or doing a University
Search. Please see this section.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 32

Disclaimer
Every effort has been made to ensure that the material contained in the Student Handbook is
current and correct. However, information is frequently updated and you should check
regularly for any changes this handbook is subject to change at any time and without notice.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK - ENGINEERING 33