The Code of Practice reflects the need for all programmes to conform and align with relevant internal and external regulations, policies and other key influencing drivers. All programme developers and programme leads, therefore, must ensure that they are familiar with and follow the relevant requirements, policies and procedures for the University and appropriate external bodies and agencies.
The University of Southampton has degree awarding powers and is responsible for ensuring the delivery of appropriate and high quality programmes. It, therefore, has its own set of regulations, policies and procedures set out in the Governance Webpages and Quality Handbook that all programmes and members of the University are expected to follow.
In addition, the University Strategy and strategic major projects indicate priorities, the direction of travel and focus for the University. Programmes have their part to play in helping the University fulfil its aims and goals.
Within the national context of Higher Education, quality across the sector is regulated by the Office for Students.
The Quality Assurance Agency is the independent expert quality body for higher education across the UK and is custodian of a suite of UK-wide sector reference points including:
The Competition and Markets Authority requirements for all undergraduate programmes, for example, have significant impacts for the timescales for planning programme and module approval and modifications.
The Equality Act 2010 ensures that disabled people have equal opportunities to benefit from and contribute to the learning services available in higher education institutions. The Equality Act 2010 protects disabled students on all types of courses and requires institutions to change their practice by anticipating the changes they need to make and being proactive in making them.
The University cannot accept responsibility for external websites.