We know that changes to your course can feel unsettling - particularly when you're not completely sure what it all means. Here you can find out why changes have been made, some definitions words that may be new to you, as well as links to support services.
Why Are They Making Changes?
Every year the uni reviews the courses they run and which School of Study they belong to. They consider things like demand from prospective students, recruitment trends over multiple years, student continuation rates, competition from other universities, graduate outcomes and resources.
Unfortunately, suspended/withdrawn courses have seen a drop in demand in recent years, making them no longer financially viable at Herts. Courses being moved are to ensure the subjects are located within a more appropriate academic home, resulting in stronger support.
Key Definitions
Student Protection Plan
A document that every registered higher education provider (university) must have in place, approved by the Office for Students. It sets out what the university will do to protect students if something significant changes about their course or the institution itself, including how students will be supported to continue their studies and what refunds or compensation may be available. You can view the University of Hertfordshire's Student Protection Plan here.
Course Suspension
A temporary pause on a course or programme, meaning no new students are recruited to it for a defined period. Students already enrolled would normally be supported to complete their studies as planned. Suspension may happen where student numbers are low or a course is under review, and the university uses its annual portfolio review process to identify courses that may be at risk.
Withdrawn Courses
The permanent removal of a course or programme from the university's portfolio, meaning it will no longer be offered to new applicants. Where a course is withdrawn, the university is committed to consulting with current students well in advance and working with them to ensure they can complete their studies, either on the existing programme through a teach-out arrangement or by transferring to a suitable alternative.
Teach-Out
The arrangement by which a university continues to deliver a course that has been withdrawn or suspended, specifically so that students already enrolled can complete their studies and achieve their qualification. The Student Protection Plan confirms that partner institutions are also contractually required to teach out programmes should a partnership end.
Material Change
A significant alteration to a course that could affect a student's experience or decision to study, such as changes to module content, course title, method of delivery or location. The university's position is that in-year changes should be avoided except in the most exceptional circumstances, and that students must be consulted and give consent before any material change is implemented.
Who Can I Talk To?
If you're affected by these changes, you can speak to your School's Dean, your programme leader or personal tutor. There are also a number of wellbeing services at the uni you can access. Or you can talk to us! Simply book an appointment with our Advice & Support team here.