The Central Student Appeals Committee (CSAC) considers appeals from students against the decisions of Boards of Examiners. For more information go to Guidelines for Appeal to CSAC at http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/GuidelinesforAppealtoCentralStudentAppealsCommitteefromJanuary2013/
The University’s Study Regulations set out regulations governing absence and failure to submit assignments due to illness, and cases of illness or emergency / exceptional circumstances in examinations. It is vital that students inform their Personal Tutor, Adviser of Studies or School Office where illness or exceptional circumstances have adversely affected performance. This is to enable the Board of Examiners to decide if such circumstances can be taken into account when considering the student’s performance.
The University’s Study Regulations can be found at http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/GeneralRegulationsUniversityCalendar2012-13/
The University’s Student Charter, Policy on Equality and Diversity and its Student Anti-bullying and Harassment Policy make reference to working in a learning environment which is free from harassment including discrimination, victimisation and bullying. The University expects individuals to treat fellow students, staff and visitors equally and respectfully. In line with its regulations the University will take disciplinary action against students who cause distress by comments made about others, whether said or in writing.
The University’s Policy on Bullying and Harassment can be found at http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/StudentAnti-BullyingHarrassmentPolicy/
This is an action which students may consider with a view to completing an alternative degree or other programme of the University. Students must consult with their Adviser/Personal Tutor on the options available. It may not be possible to transfer credit for modules already completed and there may be financial implications.
Students may not change the module for which they are registered without the written formal approval of their Adviser of Studies. Normally no such changes will be permitted after the second week of the relevant semester, except where there are extenuating circumstances.
This is the University’s marking scale which is used at the level of assessed components of modules. It includes comments and marks which are applicable to each level and honours classification. It helps to ensure that standards are consistent across the University.
It can be found at http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/GeneralRegulationsUniversityCalendar2012-13/
Students are expected to conduct themselves at all times in a manner which demonstrates respect for the University, its staff, fellow students and the wider community. The Conduct Regulations uphold the primary purposes of the University which are the advancement of the application of knowledge and the education of its members. Students who commit a disciplinary offence may receive a penalty which could range from a written warning or a fine to suspension or even expulsion.
The Conduct Regulations can be found at http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/GeneralRegulationsUniversityCalendar2012-13/
It is an academic offence for students to plagiarise. Plagiarism is defined as the presentation of the work of others as the writer’s own. Other academic offences include duplication (re-using own work which has previously been submitted for credit), collusion, fabrication and cheating in examinations.
Students who commit an academic offence may receive a penalty ranging from a written warning to being required to withdraw from the University.
The Procedures for Dealing with Academic Offences can be found at http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/GeneralRegulationsUniversityCalendar2012-13/
Follow the link below for the section of General Regulations relating to Study Regulations – this includes a section on Mark scales and Honours classification.
Re-sit examinations are held in August where programme regulations allow. Students who are permitted to re-sit and do not have extenuating circumstances will receive a maximum of the pass mark
The Regulations for Student Progress can be found at http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/GeneralRegulationsUniversityCalendar2012-13/
The only module marks to be released to a student are those which have been agreed by the appropriate Subject Board of Examiners and signed by the Chairperson and Secretary and where applicable the External Examiner. The results of degree examinations shall be confirmed by the Boards of Examiners and published by the Schools. The formal mechanism for providing marks to individual students shall be through the Queen’s Student Information System (Qsis). Marks will be released to third parties only with the permission of the student.
The University’s Academic Quality Assurance Framework sets out how the University evaluates modules and programmes on a regular basis to identify good practice, actions and enhancements. The link takes you through how this is done, what is considered and can help you to see where students can feed into the review processes.
The University's Study Regulations set out progress regulations covering students on undergraduate programmes. This includes:
The University’s Study Regulations can be accessed at http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/GeneralRegulationsUniversityCalendar2012-13/
Follow the link below to see the University’s study regulations, including Study Regulations for Undergraduate Programmes, which cover progress and examinations.
Information and Advice on academic processes and regulations can be obtained by speaking to your Advisor of Studies, Personal Tutor or the Students’ Union Advice Centre.
Each School shall convene at least one School Exceptional Circumstances Committee (SECC) to meet prior to the Board of Examiners to consider evidence of exceptional circumstances and make recommendations to the appropriate Board of Examiners regarding concessions.
Guidelines for School Exceptional Circumstances Committees can be found at http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/GeneralRegulationsUniversityCalendar2012-13/
This is a University document produced in association with the Students’ Union outlining the University’s commitment to students and likewise its expectations of students as they study within the University environment.
http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/StudentCharter/
The link below provides the University’s Student Complaints Procedure, which covers circumstances not already addressed through other regulations or procedures.
Information and advice on raising a complaint can be obtained through the Students’ Union Advice Centre.
The University wishes to support staff and students in working together to resolve disputes at a local level where possible. Using this Policy does not preclude the use of the Student Complaints Procedure.
http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/DisputeResolutionPolicy/
Refers to deadlines and the late submission of academic work where penalties will be imposed for submitting assessed work after the prescribed deadline.
Assessed work submitted after the deadline will be penalised at the rate of 5% of the total marks available for each working day late up to a maximum of five working days, after which a mark of zero shall be awarded. Where the assessed work element accounts for a certain proportion of the module mark, the 5% penalty will apply to the assessed element mark only and not to the overall module mark. Exemptions shall be granted only if there are exceptional circumstances, and where the student has made a case in writing to the School Office within three working days of the deadline for submission.
The student record, which includes personal and academic information about you, must be recorded accurately in the University's Student Information System (SIS) in line with the requirements under the Data Protection Act 1998 and in order to provide consistent lists for administrative and operational purposes throughout the course of your study. Follow the link to find out how to keep your student record up to date.
http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/srecords/YourStudentRecord/
There are various reasons why the University needs and collects feedback from students. By measuring student satisfaction it helps us monitor and review the quality of our academic provision and student services, and ultimately improve this quality. Equally important, the University seeks to empower students as active participants in their own learning. This requires students to reflect on their experience of learning and feed back to staff on how this experience could be improved.
Follow the link to determine how you can provide feedback on your Queen’s experience.
The Scholarships & Awards handbook contains details of many scholarships and awards available throughout the University.
This is a University document produced in association with the Students’ Union outlining the University’s commitment to students and likewise its expectations of students as they study within the University environment.
Please refer to Section 2 (page 7) of the University calendar:
http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/media/Media,252460,en.pdf
The link below provides the University’s Student Complaints Procedure, which covers circumstances not already addressed through other regulations or procedures.
Information and advice on raising a complaint can be obtained through the Students’ Union Advice Centre.
University Accommodation
There are a variety of University-managed accommodation options available to choose from:-
1) Elms Village Student Accommodation - located at 78 Malone Road, Belfast BT9 5BW, this purpose-built accommodation is ideally suited to undergraduate students. The Village is made up of three-storey accommodation blocks housing a total of 1126 en suite bedrooms and 505 standard bedrooms (with wash-hand-basin and use of a shared bathroom). The Village includes the Treehouse bar and restaurant, an ideal place to meet other students, enjoy a drink and watch Sky Sports. Also located in the Treehouse is the laundry, the convenience shop (MACE) and the Lounge – a no alcohol common room area equipped with big screen TV, a computer suite (including Skype) and printing facilities. The Residential Life team are based in the Elms Village and are on hand to help new students meet the challenges of living away from home for the first time. They can signpost you to further support for any problems which may arise and they also organise regular social events and trips to help you meet new friends.
2) Willow Walk – this brand new contemporary style accommodation located within an enclosed development on the perimeter of the Elms Village site at 78 Malone Road, offers one, two, three and four bedroom apartments, as well as studio apartments, specifically designed with international and postgraduate students in mind. The high standard of decor in these apartments rivals comparable accommodation in the private sector.
3) Queen’s Houses –
If you would like to apply for a place in University accommodation or if you are a resident and have any queries please contact us or visit our website:
Elms Village Reception OfficeElms Village78 Malone RoadBT9 5BW
T: +44 (0)28 9097 4403
E: accommodation@qub.ac.uk
http://www.stayatqueens.com
Private Sector Accommodation
Advice is available in the Students’ Union regarding all aspects of renting accommodation in the private sector, however, the Students' Union and the University recommend that students seek private sector accommodation through 'SU Lets', the letting agency in the Students' Union.
Help and support for checking a private sector contract before signing is available at the Students’ Union Advice Centre where an appointment can be made with an adviser. International and local students wishing to rent in the private sector can get advice by checking out the Students' Union website www.qubsu.org/advice.asp. Speak to the Education and Welfare adviser or the Vice-President Welfare for information about:
Students occupying flats and houses in the private sector must enter into a normal landlord-tenant contractual agreement. You can also have your contract checked with the Students’ Union Advice Centre.
SU Lets - private sector accommodation
The University encourages first year students to apply for accommodation owned and managed by Queen's. For private sector accommodation, the University recommends 'SU Lets'.
SU Lets is the ethical lettings agency, which the Students' Union runs in association with local estate agent Morton Pinpoint. It provides high-quality accommodation from good landlords. It is the only place that the Students' Union and the University recommend to students for housing in the private rental sector. The properties on offer have to meet a high-quality 'Accommodation Code' decided by the Union. Simple and fair tenancy agreements are provided and deposits are protected.
The SU Lets office is in the Students' Union foyer.
You can also contact SU Lets at:
T 028 9023 1000
E info@sulets.net
If you would like to apply for a place in University accommodation or if you are a resident and have any queries please contact us or visit our website:
Brian Slevin
Education and Welfare Adviser
Student Advice Centre
2nd Floor, Students’ Union
University Road
T: +44 (0)28 9097 1135/3106
E: b.slevin@qub.ac.uk
The University’s Student Charter, Policy on Equality and Diversity and its Student Anti-bullying and Harassment Policy make reference to working in a learning environment which is free from harassment including discrimination, victimisation and bullying. The University expects individuals to treat fellow students, staff and visitors equally and respectfully. In line with its regulations the University will take disciplinary action against students who cause distress by comments made about others, whether said or in writing.
The University’s Policy on Bullying and Harassment can be found at http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicStudentAffairs/AcademicAffairs/StudentAnti-BullyingHarrassmentPolicy/
Careers Employability and Skills offer a range of facilities to help students develop their career potential. These include:
It is never too early to start thinking about how you can use your time at Queen’s to enhance your employability and develop your career. Call in for a chat.
Careers, Employability and Skills
Student Guidance Centre
University Terrace
Belfast
BT7 1NN
Tel: 028 9097 2770
Email: careers@qub.ac.uk
www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/
Currently 17 faiths and denominations are represented at the University. Our work is varied and far-reaching, but we always hope tooffer a warm welcome, support and advice (spiritual and otherwise) to all members of the University community. Each of us is committed to playing a constructive and beneficial role in the building up of the individual person and of the University community. The Chaplaincies website is the best source of information; however, the four main chaplaincy centres and points of contact are:
| Catholic | 28 Elmwood Ave | Rev Fr Gary Toman |
| Church of Ireland | 22 Elmwood Ave | Rev Barry Forde |
| Methodist | 24 Elmwood Ave | Rev John Alderdice |
| Presbyterian | 12 Elmwood Ave | Rev Karen Mbayo |
The University offers a range of childcare support. This includes: full-time day-care in three crèches for children aged two months to four years, after-school care for children aged four to 11 years and a summer activities scheme for children aged six to14 years.
The University's childcare facilities provide full-time quality day care for up to 98 children, ranging in age from 0 to four years and an Out of School Club for 32 primary school children aged from four to 11 years.
Childcare staff are recruited on the basis of formal qualifications and experience, and all receive first aid training. They are also accustomed to helping overseas children settle into a different cultural environment.
Childcare creches are open from 8.15am-5.45pm, Monday-Friday for 48 weeks of the year. The Out of School Club is open during school term:
Post School: 5.45pm
School Closures Full day: 8.45am-5.45pm
Half day sessions: 8.45am-12.45pm
1.45pm-5.45pm
For further details, contact the University Creche Services: Childcare Office, Students' Union, University Road, Belfast BT7 INF. Telephone: (028) 9097 5342
Creche sites:
11 College Gardens
Telephone: +44 (0)28 9066 2146
5 Rugby Road
Telephone: +44 (0)28 9032 8407
1 Rugby Road
Telephone: + 44 (0) 28 9031 2353
Out of School Club:
1 Rugy Road
Telephone: + 44 (0)28 9032 8615
Whilst we hope your time at Queen’s is trouble free, there may be times when you find things difficult for a range of reasons. If that is the case then please speak to the Counselling Service. Staff are friendly, approachable and experienced in dealing with a wide range of issues that students have to face at University and in their personal lives. Don’t leave things until the problem escalates; speak to them at the earliest opportunity. Emotional distress and difficulty can seriously impede your ability to study effectively. Counselling can support you in managing your difficulty so that your studies do not suffer unduly. Counselling is free and confidential to any student of the University, and can range from a five-minute chat to a series of 50-minute sessions. Counsellors are professionally trained and accredited and are bound by the Code of Ethics of their professional body, the BACP.
Counselling Service
Student Guidance Centre
University Terrace
Belfast BT7 1NN
T: +44 (0)28 9097 2727
E: counsellor@qub.ac.uk
http://www.qub.ac.uk/counselling
Degree plus is a unique and innovative programme which allows Queen’s students to gain accreditation for skills and experiences developed outside of their academic programme.
Students may participate in the programme at any time during their academic career but must have submitted evidence for the award of Degree plus by April 1st for undergraduate students and 1 October for postgraduate students. Successful completion of the programme provides students with the award of Degree plus alongside their Degree classification. Any extra-curricular activities which enables the development of academic, personal, career or employability skills may be included.eg Volunteering, Involvement in a club or society, completion of an additional course or programme, summer experience or working part time. The award may be obtained in two different ways either by undertaking a programme which is fully accredited through Queen’s or by combining two experiences and presenting evidence on a Degree plus application form. To view programmes available under Route A or to download the application form for Route B visit the website: www.qub.ac.uk/degreeplus.
The Income and Student Finance Office provides advice on course tuition fees, including the assessment and collection of fees. If you have any concerns about your fee assessment speak to staff in the office who have experience in advising student on these matters. They administer a range of bursaries and student support and hardship funds to help students in financial difficulty which do not need to be repaid. They also provide a finance function for the University Clubs and Societies.
Student Guidance Centre
University Terrace
Belfast
BT7 1NN
Tel: 028 9097 2767
Email: IncomeOffice@qub.ac.uk
www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/finance
The Students’ Union Advice Centre also has two members of staff who provide advice and guidance on personal finance, debt management, income maximisation and applying for bursaries. They can see students between 9.30am – 4.30pm, Monday – Thursday and 9.00am – 3pm on Friday. If you can only come outside of these hours, they will do their best to accommodate you.
Connie Craig
Financial Adviser
Student Advice Centre
2nd Floor, Students’ Union
University Road
Tel: 028 9027 1049 / 028 9027 3106
Email: connie.craig@qub.ac.uk
Debbie Forsey
Money Management Adviser
Tel: 028 9097 1166 / 028 9027 3106
Email: d.forsey@qub.ac.uk
Students with a Belfast address, even if they only live there during the week, are strongly encouraged to register with a General Practice (GP) surgery close to the University – although it must be within a 10 mile radius of your address. If you are ill and need a doctor’s note relating to your studies, you must see a GP as soon as possible – your School will have a policy indicating the length of time after your absence that a GP note must be submitted. It is also very important to be registered with a local GP surgery if you are suddenly and unexpectedly ill and require GP (non-emergency) attention. Students from within the United Kingdom can switch back to their ‘home’ GP during summer break.
The University Health Centre (UHC) at Queen’s offers student-focused NHS services and University funded non-NHS services for Queen’s students. The UHC has extensive experience in the health needs of young adults and is made up of a friendly team who understand university life. International students in the UK for six months or more on a student visa are entitled to free NHS care and can also register with the practice. Visit our website or phone the Health Centre for more information on how to register.
University Health Centre
5 Lennoxvale
Belfast BT9 5BY
T: +44 (0)28 9097 5551
E: reception.157@uhcq.gp.n-i.nhs.uk
http://www.universityhealthcentreatqueens.co.uk
Queen's welcomes applications from international students who wish to attend under the Study Abroad programme. The Study Abroad programme offers the opportunity for students, who are already enrolled at a university overseas, to take time out from their own institutions and spend either one semester or a full academic year at Queen's.
The Study Abroad Programme is particularly popular with students from the USA, Canada and Australia. Over the years the University has attracted students from a large number of colleges across North America.
Many Study Abroad students who have come to Queen’s have enjoyed their time in Belfast so much that they have returned to undertake further study. We hope that one day you too will join us.The Language Centre provides a wide range of language courses for all students. Classes, which usually last two hours, are held weekly and usually run for most of the academic year. Languages currently offered are: Arabic, Bengali, Chinese (Mandarin), Czech, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Greek (Modern), Hindi, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Sign Language, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish and Urdu. These are all taught at various levels ranging from beginners in all languages to advanced level in the more popular languages. These courses are accredited in line with the Common European Framework of Reference and a Language Centre Certificate is awarded for over 70 per cent attendance. Language Centre courses are included in the Degree Plus Award programme. A small administration fee is levied for each 16-week course.
Apart from the courses for non-specialists, the Language Centre now offers courses leading to a Certificate in Languages for Special Purposes. Specially designed computer-based courses are available in: French, German and Spanish for Business, Practical Irish, French, German, Spanish and Italian for Tourism and Leisure. These fully-accredited courses are available at beginners, intermediate and advanced levels. (French commences at post-GCSE level). Courses can be accessed using the Language Centre’s CAN-8 multimedia online system affording students the opportunity for guided autonomous learning alongside tutor-led sessions. The nature of these online courses means that students can study in their own time and at their own pace allowing them to ‘catch up’ or to progress at their chosen pace. Upon successful completion of the course, students will be awarded a Queen’s University Certificate in Languages for Special Purposes. An administration fee is levied for each module leading to the Certificate.
Apart from the formal language learning opportunities, the Centre also provides the opportunity for self-study language courses for use in its private study area. There is a growing library of resources in over 30 languages, available at various levels and in various formats that is, books, videos, DVDs, tapes, CD-ROMs and self-study online courses. Carefully designed self-study packs are available in most languages. Software installed on the PCs includes dictionaries, grammar packages and interactive CD-ROM courses for all levels and in many languages.
The Language Centre is open for private study and class teaching from 9am – 9pm Monday to Thursday and 9am – 5pm on Friday. Staff are available for guidance and assistance during opening hours. The self-study facilities are open during normal library hours.
For further information contact:
The Language Centre
The McClay Library
T: +44 (0)28 9097 6178
E: langcent@qub.ac.uk
The Learning Development Service is available to help you with academic skills. You can have a three one-to-one appointments per semester and/or attend a range of workshops on topics including essay writing, referencing, time management, presentation skills and preparation for exams.
The Learning Development Service also offers maths support. You can find out more by calling into the Student Guidance Centre to make a free appointment.
Learning Development Service
Student Guidance Centre
Belfast BT7 1NN
T: +44 (0)28 9097 3618
E: lds@qub.ac.uk
http://www.qub.ac.uk/lds
The goal of Information Services at Queen’s is to provide the highest quality information resources and services to students and staff of the University. This commitment to quality is well illustrated by the building of The McClay Library, which blends the best features of a traditional library with the latest learning technologies to create a truly 21st-century environment for students and staff. There are also further libraries: the Medical and Healthcare Library (across four sites) and the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute Library (in the main building on the AFBI Headquarters site in Newforge Lane), as well as extensive online resources.
Information Services also supports student computing, with student computing areas across the campus. The student computing web pages provide a range of information to support the use of computing in your studies; information includes the status of key computing services and computers currently free on campus, as well as information about accessing the wireless network, training and the virtual learning environment: http://www.qub.ac.uk/student
A high percentage of students work part-time whilst completing their degree. There are a number of good reasons for doing this as part-time work can help you:
Register with the Student Jobshop to access a range of opportunities and fairly paid part-time jobs at www.qub.ac.uk/careers > Vacancies.
Please note the University strongly recommends that students do not exceed 15 hours part-time work per week as there is strong evidence to show that significant levels of part-time work can affect degree outcomes.
Personal Development Planning (PDP) is a process of reviewing and planning your own development. You will be encouraged to take control of your learning needs by reflecting on your personal performance and the feedback you receive. An electronic portfolio (e-folio) is provided in Queen’s Online to help you set out plans and personal goals to improve your academic performance and enhance your employability. Research suggests that students who engage with PDP are better equipped to study and develop their professional skills and experiences than those who do not. You should also look at the PDP webpage in the Student Gateway and talk to your Personal Tutor.
PDP is a very helpful process to assist you in identifying what study- and skills-related changes you need to make to be even more effective as an undergraduate. Don’t forget it’s not just about helping you study throughout your course, but it will also help you develop skills for all aspects of your life at Queen’s and beyond.
Personal Tutor
Each undergraduate student is assigned a Personal Tutor whose role it is to be a point of contact and support within your School. We strongly advise you to speak to your Tutor if you have any concerns relating to your time at Queen’s, particularly if you think it will affect your progression.
Personal Tutors will support you as you reflect on your Personal Development Plan and, where appropriate, refer you to a University or Students’ Union service for specialised assistance. Students are to have six official meetings with their Personal Tutor a year, but if you need to speak to yours outside of these scheduled meetings, feel free to approach them for an appointment.
The facilities at Queen's Sport are second to none. Whatever your interest – performance sport or just recreation – you are sure to find an activity that suits you!
We have four main sites; our flagship PEC Sports Centre in Botanic Park, Upper Malone, the Boat House at Stranmillis, and our cottage at the base of the Mourne Mountains.
The PEC has a state-of-the-art gym, squash courts, climbing wall, swimming and diving pool plus much more. Flexible membership packages and rates are available to all students. Our Activity Programme also has much to offer, with an unrivalled choice of classes and courses, all of which are delivered by qualified instructors.
Queen’s has over 50 Student Clubs catering for all sporting interests.
The Malone site recently underwent a major multimillion pound investment and now boasts a new Arena Pitch and Clubhouse capable of hosting premier soccer, rugby and Gaelic competition as well as several multi – sports floodlit grass and synthetic playing surfaces.
For more details please follow this link:
http://www.queenssport.com/sites/QueensSport/Facilities/OutdoorSports/QueensSportUpperMalone/
For information on our memberships, please visit: http://www.queenssport.com/sites/QueensSport/Membership
Queen’s University Belfast Physical Education Centre
Botanic Park
Belfast
BT9 5EX
T: +44 (0)28 9068 1126
E: sport@qub.ac.uk
http://www.queenssport.com
The semester dates for 2012-13 are as follows:
Moving to higher education is an exciting time and a new phase in your life. At the same time, don’t be surprised if you find it overwhelming at times – it’s normal to feel this way. For those of you who have recently left school, studying for a degree is very different. You have much more freedom to decide what you want to learn, and you will be asked to consider and debate about the content of your course. You will be expected to be more self-directed in how you approach your studies. Unlike school, your lecturers and tutors will guide you, but will not direct you as much as your teachers may have done in the past.
Information about making a successful transition to higher education can be found at: http://www.qub.ac.uk/welcome, including a series of ‘transitions’ dvds made by students about their experiences.
Within your academic School, you can discuss any issues that arise and receive guidance on approaching new situations from Academic Advisers and Personal Tutors.
The Student Guidance Centre (SGC) is on University Road, above the Ulster Bank, Post Office and The Bookshop at Queen’s.
It brings together a number of support services that help guide and assist you throughout your time at Queen’s. From managing your student record, developing your academic and employability skills and offering advice and assistance for times when you may feel under pressure, all services work together to ensure you have an enjoyable student experience.
Services located in the SGC include:
The Centre holds information and resources for a range of services both on- and off-campus.
Not sure who to ask? Information Assistants on the first floor will help you with all your queries about the University, from getting a new student card, to where to submit a form, or taking advantage of specialist advice from one of the services. The Centre also offers a comfy seating area, internet access, coffee, newspapers to read and laptops that you can borrow for use within the Centre.
Student Guidance Centre
University Terrace
T: +44 (0)28 9097 2727
E: sgc@qub.ac.uk
http://www.qub.ac.uk/sgc
Introduction
The University takes the view that all aspects of student life offer opportunities for learning and development. The School works closely with student support services and the Students’ Union to provide a range of academic and personal support services and development opportunities during your time at Queen’s. Support and development opportunities for students are offered through your academic School, as well as centrally in the Student Guidance Centre, International & Postgraduate Student Centre and the Students’ Union.
If you’re not sure where to go when you have a question about any element of University life, ask one of the Information Assistants in the Student Guidance Centre or International & Postgraduate Student Centre.
Don’t drop out – drop in!
We want you to do well during your time at Queen’s and all these services are here to help you. Staff and Sabbatical Officers have a long and successful history of supporting students in a range of situations, so do not hesitate to ask for help.
Every year we come across students who wish they had asked for help sooner - so take their advice and come and speak to one of the support services listed here. And if you are not sure which one to talk to come to the Student Guidance Centre and speak to one of our friendly Information Assistants who will be able to point you in the right direction.
Disability Services provides support to students with a wide range of disabilities including mental health difficulties and dyslexia. If you have a disability or acquire a disability whilst studying at Queen’s, we can help arrange academic and personal support to meet your individual needs.
Student Guidance Centre
University Terrace
Belfast
BT7 1NN
Tel: 028 9097 2727
Email: disability.office@qub.ac.uk
www.qub.ac.uk/disability
The Students’ Union offers a range of membership services including entertainment venues, food and other retail outlets, non-alcoholic study space in The SPACE, a student enterprise centre, the Students’ Union Advice Centre, clubs and societies, student volunteering, campaigns and representative work and much more.
Every student of the University is automatically a member (which means there are about 20,000 members). Open 18 hours a day during term time, the Students’ Union welcomes over one million visitors every year. It is recognised by the University as the representative body of students and is run by elected full-time Student Officers (Sabbaticals) and student-centred staff.
The Sabbatical Officers, management and staff, work with the student body to ensure the improvement of facilities and support services for students of Queen’s.
Queen’s Students’ Union
University Road
Belfast BT7 1NF
T: +44 (0)28 9097 3106
E: studentsunion@qub.ac.uk
http://www.qubsu.org
If you do have financial pressures that mean you have to work more hours than is advisable, please come and talk to us. Both the Student Income and Finance Department in the Student Guidance Centre and the Students’ Union can give you advice on funds that are available to help students in your position. The Learning Development Service can also offer advice on time management.
University life can throw up all sorts of interesting situations and challenges. Sometimes you may not know exactly what to do about them and may want some advice. That’s what the Students’ Union Advice Centre is there for.
The Centre employs three Advisers dedicated to providing all Queens’ students with free, confidential, independent and accurate advice.
Connie Craig – Financial Adviser
Connie advises on grants, loans, fees, Support/Hardship Funds, the financial aspects of repeating years and course changes, Social Security Benefits and other general financial issues.
T: +44 (0)28 9097 1049
E: connie.craig@qub.ac.uk
Brian Slevin – Education and Welfare Adviser
Brian advises on accommodation, including Queen’s accommodation, private landlords, deposits, repairs, checking leases/contracts. Brian also covers academic issues, including representation at Progress Committees, complaints and appeals.
T: +44 (0)28 9097 1135
E: b.slevin@qub.ac.uk
Debbie Forsey – Money Management Adviser
Debbie advises on debt; this includes overdrafts, credit cards, loan agreements, arrears of payments, negotiating with creditors and any other debt issues. Guidance on budgeting and money management is available and students do not need to be in a ‘crisis situation’ in order to seek advice.
T: +44 (0)28 9097 1166
E: d.forsey@qub.ac.uk
Speaking to your Personal Tutor or Supervisor and using some of the material on the Student Gateway site can be helpful ways of supporting your studies. You may also benefit from more specific help. See the section on Learning Development Service for details on the support they can offer you. The Learning Development website also offers excellent resources on referencing, essay writing, time management and stress management, as well as a range of other topics that will help you in your studies.