Post on 13-Apr-2018
7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
1/42
FACULTY OF MEDICAL AND HUMAN SCIENCES
Masters/PG Diploma STUDENT HANDBOOK
2015-16
Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences
http://www.manchester.ac.uk/7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
2/42
ii
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................... 1
Welcome to the Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences Graduate School .................................................................... 1
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE AND ORGANISATION ................................................................................................... 2
MSc Programme Management and Points of Contact ..................................................................................................... 2
Communication ................................................................................................................................................................. 3
2015-16 Programme Information ......................................................................................................................... 4Key Calendar dates............................................................................................................................................................ 4
Semester Dates:............................................................................................................................................................... 4
Student Representation and Feedback ............................................................................................................................. 4
Teaching Staff.................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Aims................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Objectives.......................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Course Structure and Credits ............................................................................................................................................ 6
Teaching & Learning Methods .......................................................................................................................................... 7
Teaching & Learning Resources (access to PCs, library, journals etc) .............................................................................. 7
Personal Tutor Arrangements ........................................................................................................................................... 7
Research Seminars/Tutorials/ Journal clubs ..................................................................................................................... 7Research Projects, Dissertations and Literature Reviews ................................................................................................. 7
Financial Information ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
Monitoring Attendance and Wellbeing of Students ......................................................................................................... 8
Mitigating Circumstances ................................................................................................................................................. 8
Late Submission ................................................................................................................................................................ 9
Word Limits ....................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Academic Malpractice ..................................................................................................................................................... 10
Interruptions and Extensions to Programme .................................................................................................................. 10
Academic Appeals and Complaints ................................................................................................................................. 11
Tier 4 Visa Attendance Monitoring Census ..................................................................................................................... 11
Postgraduate Taught Degree Regulations For Students (September 2015) ........................................................... 12Criteria for Awards .......................................................................................................................................................... 12
Exit Awards ...................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Compensation ................................................................................................................................................................. 13
Reassessment .................................................................................................................................................................. 13
Programme Exemptions to PGT Degree Regulations ..................................................................................................... 14
Exam Board Meetings and Course Progression .............................................................................................................. 14
Assessment ..................................................................................................................................................................... 14
The use of Turnitin .......................................................................................................................................................... 15
Extensions for Coursework ............................................................................................................................................. 15
Penalties for Late Submission of coursework ................................................................................................................. 15
Board of Examiners and External Examiner .................................................................................................................... 15Ratification of Degrees and Awards ................................................................................................................................ 16
Publication of Results ...................................................................................................................................................... 16
Graduation ...................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Medical and Human Sciences PGT Graduate School Online Skills Training Resource ............................................. 17
Student Support, Help And Advice ...................................................................................................................... 18
Student Representation .................................................................................................................................................. 18
University Student Support Services............................................................................................................................... 19
The Graduate Society ......................................................................................................................................... 19
Dissertation And Literature Reviews ................................................................................................................... 20Choosing the topic for your Diploma Literature Review ................................................................................................ 20
7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
3/42
iii
Presentation of your Dissertation (MSc) and/or Literature Review (Pathway 2 and PG Diploma) ................................ 20
Processes for submission of Dissertation or Literature Reviews .................................................................................... 20
Course Unit Descriptions And Methods Of Assessment ....................................................................................... 21
Research Methods .......................................................................................................................................................... 21
Macular Degeneration: Research, Investigations And Clinical Practice ......................................................................... 27
Retinal Vascular Disease............................................................................................................................................... 29
Glaucoma ........................................................................................................................................................................ 31
Contact Lenses ................................................................................................................................................................ 34
Cornea: Clinical Practice and Current Research.......................................................................................................... 36
Useful Links To University Policies ...................................................................................................................... 39
7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
4/42
1
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences Graduate School
Welcome to your Postgraduate Taught Programme in the Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences Graduate School
at the University of Manchester. The University has a worldwide reputation based on high quality teaching and
research, and I am sure that your taught programme will provide a solid foundation for your future career success.
Within the Graduate School, our goal is to create an environment that allows you to excel and reach your full
potential. Offering access to first-class facilities and strong links with regional health-service providers, our
postgraduate taught programmes are designed to meet the diverse needs of all our students. The curriculum of our
taught programmes provides the knowledge and skills you will need in your subject area and all our Masters
programmes include an opportunity to carry out an independent research project on topics spanning all areas of
biomedical research from molecular to experimental biology and clinical medicine. While subject areas cover a broad
range, all our taught programmes have two common aims:
To develop your skills in your chosen field of study
To enhance your knowledge within the field you have chosen. Whether you are a graduate, professional or
have a clinical background, the programmes have been tailored to meet your specific needs.
As a student in the Graduate School you will be expected to take responsibility for your degree, within a supportive
environment that fosters your development and helps prepare you for your future career. This handbook will be a
useful resource as you progress through your taught programme. It provides programme specific information that I
am sure that you will find helpful throughout your study. If however, you have questions or would like some further
advice, please do not hesitate to contact the people listed in this handbook for further information and assistance.
The Graduate School has a Graduate Society and Postgraduate hubs offering opportunities and venues for social and
professional interactions between students and with staff. As a postgraduate student you are a vital member of the
Graduate School, during the year we will be holding events that will bring together people from different schools,
Institutes and programmes allowing you to meet each other and explore your interests across different disciplines.
Keep up to date with events and activities via theGraduate School* website and be sure to come along and support
yourGraduate School.
I wish you every success as you embark upon your taught programme, and in your future career.
Professor Phil Padfield
Associate Dean, Postgraduate Taught Education
http://www.mhs.manchester.ac.uk/postgraduate/mhs-graduate-school/http://www.mhs.manchester.ac.uk/postgraduate/mhs-graduate-school/http://www.mhs.manchester.ac.uk/postgraduate/mhs-graduate-school/7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
5/42
2
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE AND ORGANISATION
The MSc in Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Science is hosted by the Clinical Alliance in the Faculty of Medical
and Human Sciences.
MSc Programme Management and Points of Contact
Important information with regards to this course will usually be emailed to you or posted as a hard copy. If you
have any queries or concerns at any time during your period of study in Manchester, there is a range of people you
can approach. Your Programme Administrator will be your first port of call for general issues. Alternatively, you may
wish to contact the Programme Director, Dr Tariq Aslam for specific aspects to do with the course. If all else fails or
you wish to raise a confidential matter at School level, you should approach the Clinical Alliance Lead or the School
Graduate Managercontact details below.
Responsibility for overall management of the Programme lies with the Programme Director. The Programme
Director has assembled a Programme Committee, which meets regularly, to advise on content, structure,
management, student supervision, and regulatory matters such as Programme improvement and refinement. The
Committee has a student representative who is democratically elected by the MSc students to attend meetings.
Issues which you wish to feed back to the MSc Committee can be done by your student representative.
The programme is managed and operated in accordance with the policies, principles, regulations and procedures of
the University of Manchester. The Programme Committee reports and responds to the Clinical Alliance Committee
and the Programme Director is a member of the Clinical Alliance committee as in the following scheme:
Affiliated to Institute of
Human Development
Faculty of Medical & Human Sciences
Graduate School Board
Faculty of Medical & Human Sciences
PGT Committee
School of Medicine PGT Council
Clinical Alliance
MSc Investigative Ophthalmology
and Vision Science
7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
6/42
3
Points of contact
Programme Directors:
Dr Tariq Aslam
Email:Tariq.Aslam@cmft.nhs.uk
4th
Floor, Manchester Royal Eye Hospital
Dr Chantal Hillarby
Email:chantal.hillarby@manchester.ac.uk
1st
floor, Stopford Building
Clinical Sciences Alliance Lead: Anna Beddow
Email:anna.beddow@manchester.ac.uk
1.96, Simon Building
Associate Dean for Graduate Education: Prof Phil Padfield
Email:philip.v.padfield@manchester.ac.uk
1.810, First Floor, Stopford Building
Programme Administrator: TBC
Email:IOVS@manchester.ac.uk
Tel 0161-306-3411
1.485, First Floor, Stopford Building
School Graduate Manager: Lynsey McVey
Email:lynsey.mcvey@manchester.ac.uk
1.483, First Floor Stopford Building
MSc student rep. To be appointed by students post registration.
Communication
Email communication
Please note that only your official student university email address will be used as official communication by
academic and the School Graduate Administrative staff. It is your responsibility to ensure that you can access and
read email from this source.
mailto:Tariq.Aslam@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Tariq.Aslam@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Tariq.Aslam@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:chantal.hillarby@manchester.ac.ukmailto:chantal.hillarby@manchester.ac.ukmailto:chantal.hillarby@manchester.ac.ukmailto:anna.beddow@manchester.ac.ukmailto:anna.beddow@manchester.ac.ukmailto:anna.beddow@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Pamela.vallely@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Pamela.vallely@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Pamela.vallely@manchester.ac.ukmailto:IOVS@manchester.ac.ukmailto:IOVS@manchester.ac.ukmailto:a.howard@manchester.ac.ukmailto:a.howard@manchester.ac.ukmailto:a.howard@manchester.ac.ukmailto:a.howard@manchester.ac.ukmailto:IOVS@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Pamela.vallely@manchester.ac.ukmailto:anna.beddow@manchester.ac.ukmailto:chantal.hillarby@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Tariq.Aslam@cmft.nhs.uk7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
7/42
4
2015-16 Programme Information
The course, which can lead to the award of an MSc or Diploma, brings together the research expertise of two
faculties (Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences and the Faculty of Life Sciences) and the clinical expertise within
Manchester Royal Eye Hospital to provide students with a firm grounding in the knowledge needed to pursue a
higher degree and to follow a research/academic career in ocular health/vision sciences. It also gives an opportunity
for vision related professionals to advance their knowledge on the scientific foundations of ophthalmology and
vision sciences.
Key Calendar dates
Welcome Weekweek commencing 21st
September 2015
Semester Dates:
Start Date End Date
First Semester 21st September 2015 31st
January 2016
Christmas Vacation 21stDecember 2015 17
thJanuary 2016
Start Date End Date
Second Semester 1st
February 2016 15th
May 2016
Easter Vacation 21st
March 2016 10th
April 2016
Examination Dates
Semester 1 Exams will be held 18th
January 201629th January 2016*
Semester 2 Exams will be held 16th
May 201612th
June 2016*
* Dates may be subject to change
Dissertation Submission Dates
2nd
September 2016 Submission deadline for MSc Dissertations
Graduation
December 2016 Date to be confirmed
July 2017 Date to be confirmed
Student Representation and Feedback
A few weeks after the beginning of the year, you will be asked to elect your student representative for your
programme. A student representative will be invited to attend the Programme Committee meetings (as
appropriate) throughout the year and should make students views known to the programme team. In
addition, the student representative should report any responses from the programme team back to fellow
students. Action taken as a result of student feedback will be fed back to the students by the programme
team. The quality of teaching on the programme is monitored in part by student feedback. Thus it is very
important that you make your views, good and bad, known. Please let the Programme Director know at any
time if you feel there is a problem with a particular area of the programme.
The Students Union works in partnership with individual Schools and Departments to provide training and support
for Student Representatives throughout their term. Further details of training will be provided for Reps once elected
and information about additional support/activities for Student Representatives can be found on the Students
Union websitehttp://manchesterstudentsunion.com/reps
http://manchesterstudentsunion.com/repshttp://manchesterstudentsunion.com/repshttp://manchesterstudentsunion.com/repshttp://manchesterstudentsunion.com/reps7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
8/42
5
Teaching Staff
The MSc course draws upon the expertise of a large number of academic and clinically qualified staff. While the
majority have academic appointments within the University of Manchester there are a number of invited guest
lecturers who bring specific expertise which often results in a lively discussion between students, course organisers
and invited guests. In total there are over 30 staff members contributing to the 6 modules (see syllabus for further
details).
Each module on the MSc course is organised by either one or two full time academic staff. These staff and unit co-
ordinators are responsible for the general organisation of each module including its structure, the tutors, setting ofcourse work and examinations.
Programme Directors
Dr Tariq Aslam Tariq.Aslam@cmft.nhs.uk
Dr Chantal Hillarby Chantal.Hillarby@manchester.ac.uk
Course Unit Co-ordinators
Research Methods
Dr Naomi Humber, 2.309 Jean McFarlane Building
Email: Naomi.Humber@manchester.ac.uk
Macular Degeneration: Research, Investigations and Clinical Practice
Mr Sajjad Mahmood, Manchester Royal Eye Hospital
Email:Sajjad.Mahmood@cmft.nhs.uk
Dr Tariq Aslam, Manchester Royal Eye Hospital
Email: tariq.aslam@manchester.ac.uk
Vascular Disease
Dr Konstantinos Balaskas
Email:Konstantinos.Balaskas@cmft.nhs.uk
Glaucoma
Dr Eleni Nikita
Email:Eleni.Nikita@cmft.nhs.uk
Cornea: Clinical Practice and Current Research
Dr Chantal Hillarby, 1.526 Stopford Building, Tel: 275 5271
Email:Chantal.Hillarby@manchester.ac.uk
Contact Lenses
Dr Philip Morgan, Carys Bannister Building, Tel: 306 4441
Email:Philip.Morgan@manchester.ac.uk
Aims
1. To give students a firm grounding in the knowledge, understanding and skills that they will need to pursue a
higher research degree or to participate in research programmes. It recognises that undergraduate courses do
not always provide these skills and that those considering research programmes can benefit from a period of
structured training;
2. To provide those working within the ophthalmic professions (ophthalmologists, optometrists, orthoptists and
ophthalmic nurses) with an opportunity for professional development;
3. To provide a programme whose curricula are informed by the research strengths of the University of
Manchester and Manchester Royal Eye Hospital and which draws upon expertise from a wide range of
disciplines that extends beyond the staff of the two institutions;4. To continually develop the course in response to a) new developments within the field; and b) feedback from
mailto:Tariq.Aslam@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Tariq.Aslam@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Chantal.Hillarby@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Chantal.Hillarby@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Sajjad.Mahmood@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Sajjad.Mahmood@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Sajjad.Mahmood@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:eric.bell@man.ac.ukmailto:Konstantinos.Balaskas@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Konstantinos.Balaskas@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Konstantinos.Balaskas@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Eleni.Nikita@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Eleni.Nikita@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Eleni.Nikita@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Chantal.Hillarby@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Chantal.Hillarby@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Chantal.Hillarby@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Philip.Morgan@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Philip.Morgan@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Philip.Morgan@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Philip.Morgan@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Chantal.Hillarby@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Eleni.Nikita@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Konstantinos.Balaskas@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:eric.bell@man.ac.ukmailto:Sajjad.Mahmood@cmft.nhs.ukmailto:Chantal.Hillarby@manchester.ac.ukmailto:Tariq.Aslam@cmft.nhs.uk7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
9/42
6
students;
5. To provide students with academic, career and pastoral support in addition to that provided by the University;
6. To meet a need for researchers who can form a bridge between basic research and applied clinical research.
7. To widen access to eye health and vision sciences research
Objectives
On completion of the course students will have:
1. Obtained the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to follow a research based career;
2.
Gained an enhanced and more specialist knowledge in selective areas of ophthalmic research;3. Experienced interdisciplinary learning and have a wider appreciation of the contributions that different
subjects can make to the discipline;
4. Acquired skills in experimental design, statistics and the use of computers in research;
5. Demonstrated an ability to successfully complete a research project;
6. Learnt how to critically review the literature;
7. Acquired/developed oral and written presentation skills.
Course Structure and Credits
Credits
Course Units
MSc
Pathway 1
MSc
Pathway 2
(optional units:
choose 2 from 4)
PG Diploma PG Cert
(optional
units: choose
4 from 6)
Macular Degeneration: Research,
Investigations and Clinical Practice
15 15 15 15option
Research Methods 15 15 15 15option
Glaucoma 15 15option
15 15option
Retinal Vascular Disease 15 15option
15 15option
Contact Lenses 15 15option
15 15option
Cornea: Clinical Practice and Current
Research
15 15option
15 15option
Literature review (MSc pathway 2 and
PG Diploma only)
30 30
Main Project (MSc)Dissertation
90 90
Total credits for MSc 180 180
Total credits for PG Diploma 120
Total credits for PG Certificate 60
7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
10/42
7
Teaching & Learning Methods
The programme uses a range of different teaching methods. Lectures, tutorials, workshops, practicals, and self-
directed learning will facilitate a more in depth understanding of the major concepts delivered via the compulsory
core course units. Peer review discussions and opportunity for staff-student feedback will be provided during
tutorials. Please see later section for a description of the teaching and learning methods employed in each course
unit.
Teaching & Learning Resources (access to PCs, library, journals etc)
Ophthalmology is housed within the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, which is located on the CMFT site at thesouthern end of the University of Manchester campus. Optometry is housed within the Carys Bannister Building. The
two sites are few hundred yards apart.
Computing facilities are available within the large public clusters in easily accessible locations. Students are
automatically registered on the University network when they formally register at the beginning of the programme.
Once registered, they can access a wide range of facilities including e-mail and the Internet.
Personal Tutor Arrangements
You will be allocated a Personal Tutor at the beginning of Semester 1. Your programme administrator will notify you
who your Personal Tutor is. You are encouraged to meet with your personal tutor and/or programme director to
discuss your progress and raise any issues that might affect your performance.
Research Seminars/Tutorials/ Journal clubs
Seminars, often with invited external lecturers, are organised by the Eye & Vision Sciences Research Group
(hema.radhakrishnan@manchester.ac.uk). You should attend these whenever possible. Wednesday afternoon post
graduate teaching sessions are organised by Manchester Royal Eye Hospital throughout term times. These include
case reports, a short lecture and a long lecture often with an external speaker. They are normally held in the main
lecture theatre of the CMFT NHS Trust, Post Graduate Centre (on Oxford Road). The case reports start at 14-00 with
the main lecture at 16-00. All students are encouraged to attend.
Research Projects, Dissertations and Literature Reviews
Choosing the topic for your MSc dissertation (90 credits)In January students will be given a list of dissertation titles that are available. Each dissertation will have a named
supervisor and students are expected to discuss those they are interested in with supervisors prior to coming to an
agreement with the supervisor on a topic. Once agreement has been reached students should notify the programme
administrator of their dissertation title and supervisor. The final dissertation may be presented as a literature review
followed by a report of the experimental work (which may take the form of a paper suitable for publication).
Guidance for the word count of the dissertation is 10,000 to 15,000 words. Please expect to have marks deducted by
your examiner if you do not remain within this range.
Location
Most dissertations are conducted within the confines of the University and the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital.
Students may, however, embark on work outside these confines (e.g. an optometric practice or other hospital). Thisis contingent on the acceptance of the research proposal and the approval of suitable external and internal
supervisors by the course director.
Timetable
Full-time students normally start their dissertations in January and are expected to have completed their
introduction and gained any required permissions (ethical reviews, Trust approval) prior to starting their practical
work in May. They then work full time on their dissertation through to September. To enable the Departments to
nominate Examiners and to have these nominations approved by the Postgraduate Panel before the date of
submission, a student is required to give notice to the Programme Administrator of his/her intention to submit a
dissertation. Students will be contacted by the Graduate Office to confirm the process for notice of submission
forms.
7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
11/42
8
Financial Information
Financial Registration
Financial registration must be completed as part of the online registration process before students will be able to
access the online training resources.
Debtors
Students who have outstanding debt at the end of their academic programme will not be permitted to graduate and
will not receive their degree certificate. Students are required to sign a declaration on the Notice of Submissionform stating that they do not owe any money to the university at the time of submitting their dissertation.
Monitoring Attendance and Wellbeing of Students
The programme director and teaching staff will monitor the work and attendance of students on the programme.
This is for your benefit and helps to ensure you are coping with the work. Regular or a pattern of non-attendance
and/or engagement will result in you being contacted by the School to meet with your programme director.
Following this, further action will be taken if there isnt a significant improvement in attendance.
For further information see: Regulation XXMonitoring Attendance and Wellbeing of Students
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=1895
The University offers a range of advice and support to students experiencing problems with attendance. Further
information can be found in the Crucial Guide:
www.studentnet.manchester.ac.uk/crucial-guide/personal-life/.You can also speak to your Programme Director
and/or Personal Advisor.
Unauthorised Absence
Students are not permitted to be absent from their course without the knowledge or prior agreement of their
Programme Director. Unauthorised absence will be treated very seriously.
Absence Due to Ill-Health
The guidelines for non-attendance due to ill health must be followed as described in this handbook. You must notifythe Programme Administrator no later than the first day of absence if you are absent due to illness. A self-
certification form should be submitted to the Programme Administrator if you are absent for between 1-7 days.
Please ask your programme administrator for details on how to access the self-certification form.
Thereafter a medical note should be obtained from your GP or a hospital consultant.
All medical certificates or other documentary evidence explaining absence from tutorials, lectures and examinations
must be submitted to your Programme Administrator within one week of the illness or as soon as possible due to
other circumstances. A failure to submit a medical certificate or other appropriate documentation to explain
absence may result in loss of any claim that mitigating circumstances be taken into consideration when academic
performance is assessed.
Mitigating Circumstances
Mitigation describes the process by which a student may be compensated for poor assessment performance, or
when they are not able to complete an exam/assessment, as a consequence of unforeseen or unpreventable
circumstances.
A student must submit a request for mitigation to their programme administrator, in advance of their assessment
submission deadline or exam. Retrospective mitigation requests will only be considered, if presented at least 2
weeks prior to the exam board and there are compelling reasons as to why the circumstances could not be made
known or presented prior to the assessment submission deadline/exam. (Exam board dates will be circulated by
your programme administrator once confirmed).
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=1895http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=1895http://www.studentnet.manchester.ac.uk/crucial-guide/personal-life/http://www.studentnet.manchester.ac.uk/crucial-guide/personal-life/http://www.studentnet.manchester.ac.uk/crucial-guide/personal-life/http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=18957/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
12/42
9
Any requests for mitigation will be considered confidentially by a mitigating circumstances panel. The panel will
normally comprise of the Programme Director, a Programme Administrator and a senior member of School staff.
Where a request for mitigation is supported, a recommendation will be made to the exam board for them to decide
on the best course of action for the student.
Students are advised to consult the following guidance, which directs them to seek advice and support before and
whilst submitting a request for mitigation. The University form and guidance for students, is available at:
www.tlso.manchester.ac.uk/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionc-
reachingdecisionsfromassessment/mitigatingcircumstancesguidanceforstudents/
For further information about the process and acceptable grounds for mitigation see: Mitigating Circumstances
Policy & Procedures:http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=4271
A Basic Guide to Mitigating Circumstances can be found here:
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=23886
Late Submission
Work submitted after the deadline without prior approval shall be subject to the following penalties:
The mark awarded for the piece of work will be reduced by: 10 marks if up to 24 hours late (1 day)
20 marks if up to 48 hours late (2 days)
30 marks if up to 72 hours late (3 days)
40 marks if up to 96 hours late (4 days)
50 marks if up to 120 hours late (5 days)
A zero mark will be awarded if the piece of work is more than 5 days late.
For further information see: Policy on Submission of Work for Summative Assessment on Taught Programmes
http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-
thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/
Word Limits Penalty for exceeding word limit
Students must adhere to the specified maximum word limit stated. The Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences
penalties for exceeding word limits are:
0-9.9% No penalty
10-19.9% 10% penalty
20-29.9% 20% penalty
30-39.9% 30% penalty
40-49.9% 40% penalty
50-59.9% 50% penalty
Word limits do not include text in the bibliography/reference list, figure legends and tables and appendices (if
relevant). However, students must ensure that figure legends or text within tables are of an appropriate length and
not used to circumvent the word limit. Students who are found to be doing this will be penalised.
Where these mark reductions result in a fail, the unit will be treated as a failed unit in accordance with the
Universitys Degree Regulations.
Students must state the word length at the top of their assignment and failure to do this will result in the same
penalty as exceeding the word limit being applied.
All coursework should have a word count on the title page.
http://www.tlso.manchester.ac.uk/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionc-reachingdecisionsfromassessment/mitigatingcircumstancesguidanceforstudents/http://www.tlso.manchester.ac.uk/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionc-reachingdecisionsfromassessment/mitigatingcircumstancesguidanceforstudents/http://www.tlso.manchester.ac.uk/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionc-reachingdecisionsfromassessment/mitigatingcircumstancesguidanceforstudents/http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=4271http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=4271http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=4271http://www.tlso.manchester.ac.uk/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionc-reachingdecisionsfromassessment/mitigatingcircumstancesguidanceforstudents/http://www.tlso.manchester.ac.uk/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionc-reachingdecisionsfromassessment/mitigatingcircumstancesguidanceforstudents/7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
13/42
10
Academic Malpractice
Academic malpractice is any activity - intentional or otherwise - that is likely to undermine the integrity essential to
scholarship and research. It includes plagiarism, collusion, fabrication or falsification of results, and anything else
that could result in unearned or undeserved credit for those committing it.
Academic malpractice can result from a deliberate act of cheating or may be committed unintentionally. Whether
intended or not, all incidents of academic malpractice will be treated seriously by the University.
The procedures and penalties for dealing with academic malpractice are covered by the same regulation as apply to
Conduct and Discipline of Students (Regulation XVII):http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=6530
You are responsible for ensuring that you understand what academic malpractice is, and how to avoid committing it.
If you are unsure, ask your lecturer or academic adviser.
The Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences training team has developed a module entitled Understanding
Academic Malpractice. This unit should be completed by all postgraduate taught students and will allow you to test
your understanding of what constitutes plagiarism and academic malpractice. The module is part of the PGT
Medical and Human Sciences Graduate School Online Skills Training Resource. You can access the resource via
Blackboard. Log in to My Manchester and click on the Blackboard tab. The online skills training resource will belisted under the My Communities heading (below your course units). The module should be completed as soon as
possible after you begin your programme, but must be completed before you submit your first piece of academic
writing for assessment.
Guidance for students on plagiarism and other forms of academic malpractice can be found at:
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=2870
Academic Malpractice: Procedure for the Handling of Cases can be found at:
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=639
Interruptions and Extensions to ProgrammeIt is the expectation of the University that postgraduate taught students pursue their studies on a continuous basis for
the stipulated duration of their programme. However, it is recognised that students may encounter personal
difficulties or situations which may seriously disrupt or delay their studies. In some cases, an interruption or extension
to your programme of study may be the most sensible option.
Students who wish to interrupt the programme or extend to write up the dissertation should initially discuss their plans
and reasons with the Programme Director.
Students should also provide documentary evidence when appropriate, for example, doctors letter, sick note etc.
An application must be submitted to the Programme Director who will either support or reject the request. The formwill then be submitted for consideration to the School of Medicine Degrees Panel who will make the final decision.
The forms required for formal application are available from your Programme Administrator.
Special Permissions
Details of forms regarding special permissions can be found online.
http://www.mhs.manchester.ac.uk/intranet/admingroups/postgraduate/pgt/pgtforms/
Special permissions forms include:
- Change of mode of attendance application form.
-Change of programme application form.
- Extension to programme application form.
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=6530http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=6530http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=6530http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=2870http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=2870http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=639http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=639http://www.mhs.manchester.ac.uk/intranet/admingroups/postgraduate/pgt/pgtforms/http://www.mhs.manchester.ac.uk/intranet/admingroups/postgraduate/pgt/pgtforms/http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=639http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=2870http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=65307/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
14/42
11
- Interruption application form.
- Late submission request form (used for dissertations).
Academic Appeals and Complaints
The University policy on academic appeals (Regulation XIX) can be found online.
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=1872
The Universitys Student Complaints Procedure can be found online.
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=1893If you require any advice or guidance on the Student Complaints Procedure, please contact
Mrs Sally Bray, Head of Academic Services, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences.
0161 275 1467 orsally.a.bray@manchester.ac.uk
Tier 4 Visa Attendance Monitoring Census
The University operates attendance monitoring census points within the academic year in order to confirm the
attendance of students holding a Tier 4 Student Visa. This is to ensure the University meets the UKVI statutory
requirements as a sponsor of Tier 4 students and its responsibilities in accordance with its Highly Trusted Sponsor
status.
If you are a Tier 4 visa holder, you must attend these attendance monitoring census points, in addition to complyingwith the Schools own programme attendance requirements.
When are the census points?
In the 2015/16 academic year, the attendance monitoring census points will be during the following periods:
28 September9 October 2015
1829 January 2016
19 May8 June 2016
15 July29 July 2016
Please note:
If you are a new student, registration is your first point to confirm your attendance at the University and you will notbe required to attend a further census point in October 2015.
You will receive an e-mail from the School to confirm when and where you should attend to have your attendance
confirmed. You must check your University e-mail account regularly. Failure to check your e-mail account is not a
valid reason to be absent from a census point.
What if a Tier 4 student cannot attend a census point?
If you cannot attend in person due to a valid reason which includes: illness; placement; field studies; on year abroad;
research work; or any other reason connected to your programme of study, you must email your programme
administrator to inform us of your absence and your inability to attend in person. In the case of illness, you must
provide a copy of a medical certificate. If you are in this position you should report in person to the School as soon as
possible after you return to campus.
Students who are recorded as interrupting their studies are not expected to attend during their period of
interruption.
What happens if a student does not attend a census point?
The School must be able to confirm your presence to the UKVI by the end of each census point in the academic year.
If you do not attend a census point when required by your School and you do not provide a valid explanation for
your absence you will be deemed to be not in attendance.
Those students identified as not in attendance will be reported to the UKVI and the University will cease to
sponsor the students Tier 4 visa. The Tier 4 visa will then be curtailed and the student must leave the UK within 60
days
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=1872http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=1872http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=1893http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=1893mailto:sally.a.bray@manchester.ac.ukmailto:sally.a.bray@manchester.ac.ukmailto:sally.a.bray@manchester.ac.ukmailto:sally.a.bray@manchester.ac.ukhttp://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=1893http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=18727/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
15/42
12
Further information
For more information on Tier 4 visas:https://www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa
If you have any concerns about the attendance monitoring census points, or your Tier 4 visa status, please contact
visa@manchester.ac.uk
Postgraduate Taught Degree Regulations For Students (September 2015)
Postgraduate Taught degrees at the University of Manchester are based on theNational Framework for Higher
Education Qualifications(FHEQ). This framework requires students to achieve credit at masters level in order to get
an award. For a standard postgraduate taught Masters programme this will normally mean passing 180 credits. A
standard postgraduate diploma will normally have 120 credits and a postgraduate certificate 60 credits. The way in
which you study these credits will be defined later in the programme handbook and the programme specification.
The University sets standards relating to your performance on every unit but also on your progression through the
programme. The programme and course unit specifications will set out the requirements for passing the credit on
individual units.
Postgraduate Taught Degree Regulations
Please find below the link to the degree regulations:
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=13148
The following guidance should be read in conjunction with the regulations policy document.
Criteria for Awards
Award of Masters Degree
The award of Master degree is based upon credit accumulation using a pass mark of 50%.
Distinction
Exceptional achievements over the course of the Programme according to the taught masters marking scheme
will be rewarded with the degree of MSc with Distinction.
To obtain a Distinction, students must have:
accrued 180 credits;
have passed all units with no compensations or referrals;
have achieved an overall weighted average of 70% or more across the programme.
Students who have compensated or have been referred in any course units are not eligible for the award of
Distinction. In addition, the dissertation must be submitted by the end of the period of programme, unless there
are significant mitigating circumstances, approved in advance for missing the end of programme deadline.
Merit
To obtain a Merit, students must have accrued 180 credits AND have achieved an overall weighted average of60% or more across the programme, including any provision made for compensated or referred units.
Pass
To obtain a pass, students must have accrued 180 credits including any provision made for compensated or referred
units.
Award Postgraduate Diploma
To obtain a Postgraduate Diploma award, students must have accrued 120 credits (as specified by the programme)
including any provision made for compensated or referred units.
https://www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visahttps://www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visahttps://www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visamailto:visa@manchester.ac.ukmailto:visa@manchester.ac.ukhttp://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Documents/FHEQ08.pdfhttp://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Documents/FHEQ08.pdfhttp://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Documents/FHEQ08.pdfhttp://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Documents/FHEQ08.pdfhttp://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=13148http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=13148http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=13148http://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Documents/FHEQ08.pdfhttp://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Documents/FHEQ08.pdfmailto:visa@manchester.ac.ukhttps://www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
16/42
13
Award Postgraduate Certificate
To obtain a Postgraduate Certificate award students must have accrued 60 credits (as specified by the programme)
including any provision made for compensated or referred units.
Unless otherwise specified in the exemptions, the awards of Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate
degree are based upon credit accumulation using a pass mark of 40% for which there is no classification other than
pass/fail.
Exit Awards
Exit awards are available for students who do not satisfy the criteria for the programme they are registered on orwho needs to exit the programme early due to unforeseen circumstances.
To be considered for a PG Diploma (120 credits; exit point) students must have accrued 120 credits across the
programme.
To be considered for a PG Certificate (60 credits; exit) students must have accrued 60 credits across the programme.
Please note the pass mark for course units making up the Postgraduate Diploma and Certificate exit awards is 40%.
Compensation
MSc Degree
Students may be awarded compensated credit if they receive fail marks in the range 40-49% in no more than 30credits in the taught component.
Postgraduate Diploma
Students may be awarded compensated credit if they receive fail marks in the range 30-39% in no more than 30
credits in the taught component.
Postgraduate Certificate
Students may be awarded compensated credit if they receive fail marks in the range 30-39% in no more than 15
credits in the taught component.
The combined total number of credits compensated and referred cannot exceed half the taught credits.
Compensated credit retains the original failed mark for the course unit and this is used in the weighted average for
the calculation of the final classification/award.
Reassessment
Where the overall unit mark is below the compensation zone (40% for Masters and 30% for Postgraduate
Diploma/Certificate) OR the number of compensatable fails (30 credits for Masters/Diploma and 15 credits for
Postgraduate Certificate) has been exceeded, reassessment may be taken.
Reassessment as a result of a fail is known as a Referral. Reassessment as a result of approved and verified
mitigating circumstances is known as Deferral and may be permitted where students are reassessed as a first
attempt, for which no penalty applies.
Students may be referred in up to half of the total taught credits. The combined total number of credits referred and
compensated cannot exceed half the taught credits. Decisions with regard to which components should be
reassessed are made by the Examination Board. When a student is referred they will normally be permitted to
retake the assessment/exam on one further occasion.
At the recommendation of the Board of Examiners, students will normally be allowed one resubmission of a failed
dissertation or project and this will normally be within four months of the date of the publication of the result. The
Board of Examiners, in agreement with the External Examiner may, exceptionally, decide not to allow resubmission.
The pass mark for a reassessment is the same as the first attempt (i.e. 50% for masters and 40% for Postgraduate
Diploma/Certificate).When a reassessment is passed, the mark is capped at the lowest compensatable fail mark (i.e.
40R for Masters and 30R for Postgraduate Diploma/Certificate), unless the previous mark was within the
7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
17/42
14
compensation zone, in which case the original mark will stand with a suffix R. This mark is used in the weighted
average/total mark for the final award. The capped mark is applied to the whole unit and not the failed component.
Referrals may also be compensated providing the number of quota of compensations has not been exceeded. When
a students referral mark is in the compensation zone (and the student/unit is eligible for compensation), the
students mark will be capped at the lowest compensatable fail mark (i.e. 40R for Masters and 30R for Postgraduate
Diploma/Certificate).
Programme Exemptions to PGT Degree RegulationsThe programme does not have any exemptions.
Exam Board Meetings and Course Progression
An examination board will be held to consider your Semester 1 results. If you have scored below 50% on any course
units in Semester 1, then you may be required to meet with the programme director to discuss your progress and
whether you require any additional support.
An examination board will be held in Semester 2, to consider all of your taught unit marks. To remain on the Masters
pathway students must have passed all taught units at Masters level (including any units passed by compensation or
referral, within the referral/compensation allowance defined in the Postgraduate taught degree regulations).
Students who are not eligible to continue on the Masters pathway may be transferred to the Postgraduate Diplomapathway and will complete a 30 credit literature review.
An exam board will be held in November to consider the dissertations and to approve the final degree
recommendations.
Assessment
Students will be assessed within the framework of the University regulations according to the requirements and
criteria laid out in this handbook. All coursework must be submitted to the appropriate Unit Co-ordinator in the
format requested.
The University Ordinances and Regulations for postgraduate taught degrees can be found at:http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=13148
The following are regulations relating specifically to the assessment and progression of Investigative Ophthalmology
and Vision Science students:
Marking of Examination Scripts
Examination scripts will be marked by two members of staff.
Dissertations/Projects (MSc) and Literature Reviews (PG Dip)
Dissertations/projects (MSc) and Literature reviews (PG Dip) will be examined by two internal examiners, with the
External Examiner acting as moderator.
Policy on Submission of Work for Summative Assessment on Taught Programmes
A copy of the policy on submission of work for summative assessment on Taught Programmes is available online.
This includes guidance on penalties applied for late submission of coursework and the final dissertation.
http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-
thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/
Policy on feedback to Postgraduate students
A copy of the policy on feedback to postgraduate taught students is available online.
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=6518
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=13148http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=13148http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=6518http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=6518http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=6518http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=131487/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
18/42
15
The use of Turnitin
The University uses electronic systems for the purposes of detecting plagiarism and other forms of academic
malpractice and for marking. Such systems include TurnitinUK, the plagiarism detection service used by the
University.
As part of the formative and/or summative assessment process, you may be asked to submit electronic versions of
your work to TurnitinUK and/or other electronic systems used by the University (this requirement may be in addition
to a requirement to submit a paper copy of your work). If you are asked to do this, you must do so within the
required timescales.
The School also reserves the right to submit work handed in by you for formative or summative assessment to
TurnitinUK and/or other electronic systems used by the University.
Please note that when work is submitted to the relevant electronic systems, it may be copied and then stored in a
database to allow appropriate checks to be made
All typed summative assessment, including dissertations, should be submitted online and subjected to plagiarism
detection software
Extensions for CourseworkRequests for extensions to coursework (except for dissertation), should be submitted to the Programme
Administrator at least one week prior to the coursework deadline. Students will be required to submit a mitigating
circumstances form and appropriate evidence to the Programme Administrator for consideration.
Where approved mitigating circumstances apply, deadlines will be extended as indicated in the Policy on Mitigating
Circumstances. An application for an extension that is submitted after the coursework deadline will not be
considered without a credible and compelling explanation as to why it could not have been submitted beforehand.
Mitigating circumstances will not result in the change of any marks, unless penalties for late submission are waived
for an assignment that has already been marked.
Penalties for Late Submission of courseworkWork submitted after the deadline without prior approval shall be subject to the following penalties:
The mark awarded for the piece of work will be reduced by:
10 marks if up to 24 hours late (1 day)
20 marks if up to 48 hours late (2 days)
30 marks if up to 72 hours late (3 days)
40 marks if up to 96 hours late (4 days)
50 marks if up to 120 hours late (5 days)
A zero mark will be awarded if the piece of work is more than 5 days late.
For further information see: Policy on Submission of Work for Summative Assessment on Taught Programmes
http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-
thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/
Board of Examiners and External Examiner
A Board of Examiners, which includes the external examiner, course director, and unit organisers, considers the
results of examinations. The external examiner has access to all assessed work submitted by students and will be
involved in all assessment procedures.
The Board of Examiners determines performance in a unit and they may exercise discretion in determining passes or
failures, taking into account any factors that they feel are relevant. When each individual unit has been assessed,students will be told how they have performed on that unit, and their overall performance.
http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/tlso/map/teachinglearningassessment/assessment/sectionb-thepracticeofassessment/policyonsubmissionofworkforsummativeassessment/7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
19/42
16
The role of the External Examiners
External Examiners are individuals from another institution or organisation who monitor the assessment processes
of the University to ensure fairness and academic standards. They ensure that assessment and examination
procedures have been fairly and properly implemented and that decisions have been made after appropriate
deliberation. They also ensure that standards of awards and levels of student performance are at least comparable
with those in equivalent higher education institutions.
External Examiners reportsExternal Examiners reports relating to this programme will be shared with student representatives at the
programme committee, where details of any actions carried out by the programme team/School in response to the
External Examiners comments will be discussed. Students should contact their student representatives if they
require any further information about External Examiners reports or the process for considering them.
External Examiner Details
The External Examiner for this programme is Michel Michaelides who is a Clinical Senior Lecturer and is based at UCL
Institute of Ophthalmology, London.
Please note that this is for information only and it is inappropriate for students to make direct contact with External
Examiners under any circumstances, in particular with regards to a students individual performance in assessments.
Other appropriate mechanisms are available for students, including the Universitys appeals or complaints
procedures and the UMSU Advice Centre. In cases where a student doescontact an External Examiner directly,
External Examiners have been requested not to respond to direct queries. Instead, External Examiners will then
report the matter to the School who will then contact the student to remind them of the other methods available for
students. If students have any queries concerning this, they should contact their Programme Administrator.
Ratification of Degrees and Awards
Following examination and receipt of the examiners reports, a students degree or award will be approved by the
Exam Board taking into account moderation by the external examiner where appropriate.
Publication of Results
Candidates will be notified of their results from the School Graduate Office as soon as possible after the final
meeting of the Exam Board. Names of successful candidates and their degree title will be entered into the student
records system. Candidates will then be invited to graduate at the next available opportunity.
Conditions for Publication of Results
Candidates will only receive their official degree result (and therefore be eligible to graduate and receive their
degree certificate) once:
Suitably bound copies of their dissertation have been received.
and Students who owe money to the University have cleared their debt in advance.
Graduation
If you have no corrections to your dissertation, you can normally expect to graduate in December following the final
examination board results. However, it is important to remember that you will need to submit your corrected and
bound dissertations to the School Graduate Office before your result can be published. Occasionally, the
examination process can be delayed for one reason or another. In certain cases, December graduation may not be
possible, in which case students may have to graduate at the next ceremony in July.
Degree ceremonies are held in December and July each year and these are organised by the Student Services Centre.
You will receive information about the graduation ceremony at the time that your degree result is notified to you.
7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
20/42
17
When students receive written confirmation of their results, this is confirmation that they have been awarded the
degree and that they are eligible to attend the ceremony.
Degree Certificates
Degree certificates are issued at the degree ceremony.
You should inform the Student Services Centre if you choose not to attend the graduation ceremony, in which case
your degree certificate will be posted to you.
Please keep the School Graduate Office informed of any change to the contact details that you provided on your
Notice of Submission form. You can also update your address via Campus Solutions self service function.
Medical and Human Sciences PGT Graduate School Online Skills Training Resource
Skills units and other teaching resources developed for the Faculty Graduate School
The Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences Graduate School has developed a skills training resource to support you
through your postgraduate taught programme. This online material should supplement the assessed learning
material and activities undertaken in your taught programme.
Accessing the online skills resource
You can access Blackboard through the My Manchester portal (http://my.manchester.ac.uk). The skills training
resource is available in an academic community space available to all registered PGT students in the Faculty through
Blackboard.
If you cannot see these units in your Blackboard please contact your Programme Administrator.
A short introduction to Blackboard for new students. The recording is hosted in two places: the VLS and on
YouTube:
https://stream.manchester.ac.uk/Play.aspx?VideoId=30453
https://youtu.be/47pA877MKJg
The recording is just over seven minutes long and covers most of the commonly used tools in Blackboard.
Content
Full details of all these resources can be found in the introduction to each unit. These resources have been designed
to give you formative feedback on your progress through them. If you experience any problems and would like to
talk to someone please contact your Programme Director. If you have questions about referencing and how it
applies to your own work, please contact your Programme Director or dissertation supervisor/module lead.
Academic Writing This is an excellent resource that supports you to write your
assignments and dissertation. It is split into units that focus on
key areas that previous students have found difficult and aims
to enhance your academic writing style.
Understanding AcademicMalpractice Good academic writing is underpinned by evidence, and thismust be correctly referenced. This resource explains good
referencing practice and also enables you to test your
understanding of the Universitys plagiarism policy.
The Academic malpractice driving test should be completed as
soon as possible after you begin your programme, but must be
completed before you submit your first piece of academic
writing for assessment.
Research Methods* This course is spilt into 3 units that cover introductions to study
design, statistics and dissertation skills. It has a number of onlinequizzes where you can test your knowledge.
http://my.manchester.ac.uk/http://my.manchester.ac.uk/http://my.manchester.ac.uk/https://stream.manchester.ac.uk/Play.aspx?VideoId=30453https://stream.manchester.ac.uk/Play.aspx?VideoId=30453https://youtu.be/47pA877MKJghttps://youtu.be/47pA877MKJghttps://youtu.be/47pA877MKJghttps://stream.manchester.ac.uk/Play.aspx?VideoId=30453http://my.manchester.ac.uk/7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
21/42
18
Statistics* The course provides a valuable foundation for understanding
and interpreting biostatistics. It aims to provide you with the
fundamentals of quantitative analysis.
Presentation Skills This short interactive unit is designed to help you to enhance
your presentation skills. Regardless of whether you are
presenting in public, preparing for conferences, an oral
examination or more informal settings this unit will give you the
tops tips to improve your delivery.
Qualitative Research Methods* This unit has been designed to give you an introduction toQualitative Research.
SPSS* This is an introduction to statistics, using SPSS, a popular and
comprehensive data analysis software package containing a
multitude of features designed to facilitate the execution of a
wide range of statistical analyses.
Intellectual Property Awareness
Resource
This Intellectual Property (IP) awareness resource has been
created in order to improve your understanding of IP. Topics
include: Types of intellectual property Copyright and IP
clearance University policy on IP IP commercialisation IP in
research or consultancy IP issues to be aware when dealing
with academic materials
* NOTE: the materialin this online resource is for reference and formative learning purposes only. In some of your
taught programme you may be required to undertake assessed course units for Research Methods, Qualitative
Research or Statistics. If your programme involves taught units then you should refer to the Blackboard material
relating to that course unit. Please contact your Programme Administrator if you are unsure which material relates
to your assessed work. You will still be able to refer to the online skills resource in later years.
University Health and Safety Unit MEDN67810
As part of the Universitys responsibility to help keep you safe and well during your studies, you will need complete a
short online health and safety course.
This short course provides you with basic information about how health and safety is managed on campus, and also
includes some simple tests to assess your learning outcomes. It will take you approximately 1 hour to complete.
You will be enrolled automatically on the Health and Safety course unit, which is delivered through Blackboard (the
University e-learning system). You must complete the course and obtain a pass by 31 October 2015.
Student Support, Help And Advice
Student Representation
A postgraduate representative is elected for each cohort to attend the Programme Committee. Student
representation on this panel is extremely important as it helps to inform direction of future developments that will
benefit all the students on the programme/in the School. Feedback on any aspect of your experience as apostgraduate student is also welcome, either as an individual or as a group.
The following provides a guide for sources of help and contact points for advice should you have any academic or
personal concerns during your course of study.
Programme Director:If you have any concerns regarding your course, your Programme Director should be your first
point of contact.
Deputy Senior Tutor: If you wish to raise a confidential or non-academic matter, you should contact the Deputy
Senior Tutor who will act independently to offer advice, in confidence, or direct you to the most appropriate person
for help. Anything that you wish to discuss will always be treated in STRICTEST CONFIDENCE and will NOT be
discussed with any other individuals without your permission.
7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
22/42
19
Confidential advice can also be obtained via the University Student Support and Services Office
(http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/studentsupportandservices/
Programme Administrators Office:This should be your first port of call for any general information. The Programme
Administrator is based in Room1.485, First Floor, Stopford Building.
University Student Support Services
Listed below are some of the key central support numbers you might need during your time at the University ofManchester:
Accommodation Office 275 2888
Careers Service 275 2828
Student Services Centre 275 5000
International Students Welfare Officer 275 5000
International Office (General Enquiries) 275 2196
The University of Manchester Library 275 3751
Student Health Service 275 2858
Students Union 275 2930
The University Language Centre 275 3426
Conduct and Discipline of Students (Regulations XVII)
A copy of the conduct and discipline of students (Regulations XVII) is available online.
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=6530
Student Charter
A copy of the Student Charter is available online:
http://www.studentnet.manchester.ac.uk/enhancing-my-experience/charter/
The Graduate Society
The Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences Graduate Society (FMHSGS) was formed in October 2012 by
postgraduates, for postgraduates. Our mission is to act as a resource for postgraduate students within the Faculty by
organising opportunities for social, scientific and professional interactions. We work to provide a structure, through
which an integrated, Faculty-wide network of postgraduate students can be established. We aim to do this by
working towards three overarching goals:
1. To organise high quality, academically orientated events, such as our Lightning Lecture series and the
Postgraduate Research showcase, a one day conference event showcasing research from across the
Faculty and much more.
2. To organise social events that facilitate interactions across Schools and Institutes and work to develop an
ever-greater community atmosphere within the Faculty, e.g. our MHS Pub Quizzes and Welcome Events
for new students.
3. To organise opportunities for postgraduates within the Faculty to engage the public about science,
including the Elevator Pitch event we carry out with the Graduate School to travel to nearby schools and
discuss postgraduates science.
Graduate Society Contacts:
Adam Featherstone, Chair (adam.featherstone@postgrad.manchester.ac.uk)
Amy McCarthy, Treasurer (Amy.McCarthy@cruk.manchester.ac.uk)
http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/studentsupportandservices/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/studentsupportandservices/http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/studentsupportandservices/http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=6530http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=6530http://www.studentnet.manchester.ac.uk/enhancing-my-experience/charter/http://www.studentnet.manchester.ac.uk/enhancing-my-experience/charter/mailto:adam.featherstone@postgrad.manchester.ac.ukmailto:adam.featherstone@postgrad.manchester.ac.ukmailto:adam.featherstone@postgrad.manchester.ac.ukmailto:Amy.McCarthy@cruk.manchester.ac.ukmailto:Amy.McCarthy@cruk.manchester.ac.ukmailto:Amy.McCarthy@cruk.manchester.ac.ukmailto:Amy.McCarthy@cruk.manchester.ac.ukmailto:adam.featherstone@postgrad.manchester.ac.ukhttp://www.studentnet.manchester.ac.uk/enhancing-my-experience/charter/http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/DocuInfo.aspx?DocID=6530http://www.campus.manchester.ac.uk/studentsupportandservices/7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
23/42
20
Dissertation And Literature Reviews
Choosing the topic for your Diploma Literature Review
Students following pathway 2 will select a title for their literature review following discussions with their dissertation
supervisor. This review will be supervised by their dissertation supervisor.
Students undertaking a Literature Review as part of a Diploma should consult the Programme Director for a suitable
topic/supervisor.
The literature report will account for 30 credits
Presentation of your Dissertation (MSc) and/or Literature Review (Pathway 2 and PG Diploma)
The final report will be presented as a bound dissertation. Your submitted dissertation/review must comply fully
with University Regulations.
Guidelines for the presentation of your dissertation/review are available from:
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=2863
You should refer to the guidance on presentation and layout BEFOREbinding your dissertation
Processes for submission of Dissertation or Literature Reviews
Notice of Submission Form
Six weeks before your final dissertation/review is due you are required to give Notice of Submissionby completing
a Notice of Submission form. The School Graduate Office will provide access to the Notice of Submission form for
you to complete. Notice to submit instructs the School to contact your Programme Director in order to nominate
two internal examiners.
Submission and deadline date
You will be expected to submit your dissertation/review by 9thSeptember 2016. The dissertation/review must be
submitted before the end of the programme in order for a student to be considered eligible for the award ofdistinction or merit.
Two paper copies of your dissertation/review must be submitted to your Programme Administrator Room 1.485,
First Floor, Stopford Building, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT
You will also need to submit an electronic copy of your dissertation/review. Your programme administrator will
advise you on how to submit your electronic copy.
Examination of the Dissertation (MSc) or Literature Review (PG Diploma)
Research dissertations and literature reviews submitted by taught Masters/PG Diploma students in the Faculty of
Medical and Human Sciences are examined by two independent internal examiners. The first is normally thesupervisor; the second is a member of staff who has no connection with the work. The programme external
examiner moderates all the dissertations/reviews submitted, after they have been independently marked.
After submission dissertations/reviews will be sent to the internal examiners for marking. After marking the
examiners will return the dissertations/reviews and their marking/report forms to the Programme Administrator.
These will then be sent to the External Examiner for his/her moderation in advance of the Examination Board
Meeting which takes place in November. The recommendation of the examiners will be ratified by the Faculty so
that successful students are able to graduate in December.
The External Examiner will ensure that the marking is fair and accurate and will advise at the Final Examiners
Meeting. At this meeting, the progress of each student is discussed with members of staff and supervisors.
http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=2863http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=2863http://documents.manchester.ac.uk/display.aspx?DocID=28637/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
24/42
21
Dissertation/review marks are combined with the marks for the taught elements of the course to provide a final
weighted average percentage score.
Course Unit Descriptions And Methods Of Assessment
The timetable information contained within this handbook is provisional and subject to change. Please also refer
to individual course units in Blackboard for updated timetables throughout the academic year.
Research Methods
(MEDN 69910)
Course Unit Coordinator:Rachel Cowenrachel.cowen@manchester.ac.uk
Course Unit Administrator: Christie Fineganchristie.finegan@manchester.ac.uk
Introduction to the Course Unit
The Research Methods Course Unit is either a 0 or 15 credit, (please refer to programme summary), interactive
blended learning unit which will give you a comprehensive introduction to key information and skills required
for the design, execution, interpretation and dissemination of medical, scientific and clinically-related research.
The research methods course is an integral part of your research experience whilst undertaking your degree. It
will help you produce a high quality dissertation and provide you with the strongest grounding possible to carry
out successful research, whether in academia, industry or a medically-aligned profession.
The unit is a blended combination of lectures, workshops and on-line material designed to cover topics relating
to critical analysis of scientific/medical research literature, information management, study design, basic
statistical analysis, research integrity, research presentation skills, scientific writing and publishing skills.
Aims of the Course Unit
This unit aims to prepare you for postgraduate research. Specifically it will:
This unit aims to prepare you for postgraduate research. Specifically it will:
Introduce you to the skills and knowledge required to critically design, effectively implement, ethically
conduct and knowledgeably interpret research in medical, scientific and clinically related sciences.
Provide you with life-long critical appraisal skills that you will be able to apply to any research evidence that
comes before you.
Develop your competence in key transferable skills, particularly written and oral communication of research
and time and project management in the research setting.
Organisation and Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) of the Course Unit
The unit will begin with 5 taught introductory sessions run by the Faculty Graduate Training Team covering:
Unit Overview and How to Ensure Research Ethics/Integrity
ILOs:
To be able to use blackboard and maximise your research methods knowledge/learning using the
research methods online resources.
To fully understand how you will be assessed and what it takes to successfully complete the unit.
To understand the importance of research integrity and how to avoid plagiarism, fraud, and misconduct
To raise awareness of the research governance framework that underpins robust, ethical research and
consider case studies when research has gone wrong.
mailto:rachel.cowen@manchester.ac.ukmailto:christie.finegan@manchester.ac.ukmailto:christie.finegan@manchester.ac.ukmailto:christie.finegan@manchester.ac.ukmailto:christie.finegan@manchester.ac.ukmailto:rachel.cowen@manchester.ac.uk7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
25/42
22
Introduction to Statistics
ILOs:
To be able to appropriately describe and present quantitative data.
To understand the principles underlying hypothesis testing, sampling, estimation and confidence intervals.
To be able to carry out statistical analyses using statistical software.
Research Study Design
ILOs:
To understand the basic principles of project and time management.
To be able to apply project planning tools to establish and execute a successful research study with
maximum research impact.
Dissertation Skills
ILOs:
To be able to critically analyse a research paper and prepare a well-structured research abstract.
To understand the principles of effective academic writing.
To be able to produce a high quality dissertation.
Research Communication SkillsILOs:
To understand how to effectively communicate your research ideas and findings to a wide audience.
To be able to produce an effective research poster with high visual impact.
To be able to confidently deliver a research presentation and defend/field questions.
Timetable - Taught Introductory Sessions. All sessions will run from 9.30am-1pm
Session Date Delivered by Room allocated
Unit Overview and
Research
Ethics/Integrity
Mon 5th
Oct Judy Williams
Sackville K003
Dissertation Skills Tues 6th
Oct Judy WilliamsSackville K003
Research Study Design Wed 7th
Oct Rachel CowenSackville Entrance Hall
Research
Communication SkillsThurs 8
thOct Rachel Cowen
Sackville Entrance Hall
Introduction to
StatisticsFri 9
thOct Richard Emsley
Sackville Entrance Hall
The unit will then run on-line in Blackboard. All of the face to face material including session slides will be
available through blackboard. There will be a blackboard discussion board to support the summative
assessment aspects of the unit and there may also be some in-programme taught consolidation sessions.
Information will remain available in Blackboard for the whole academic year.
The Research Methods Online blackboard material is structured into 3 sections and includes multiple choice
questions (MCQs) to formatively assess your learning from the face to face training and online research
methods resources:
7/26/2019 IOVS Handbook 15
26/42
23
Research Methods Online includes:
1. Study Design
Protocol design - th