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Degree calculation

For taught programmes of study, classifications of awards are awarded on the basis of a calculated weighted average.

The weighted average is calculated by averaging all module marks, proportionate to the credit size of the module, and weighting by level. The following indicates the algorithms applied for each type of award.

Weighted average

Cert HE

Level 4 only - all modules have equal weighting.

Dip HE/Foundation Degree/BA/BSc/LLB

Level 4 modules are weighted 0 and do not count to the weighted average. Level 5 modules are weighted 1, and level 6 modules are weighted 2.

Graduate Certificate/Diploma

Level 6 only - all modules have equal weighting.

MSci

Level 4 modules are weighted 0 and do not count to the weighted average. Level 5 modules are weighted 1, level 6 and level 7 modules are weighted 2.

PGcert/PGDip/MA/MSc/LLM/MRes

Level 7 only - all modules have equal weighting.

Classifications

Once your weighted average is calculated, this is used to derive a classification.

Cert HE/Dip HE/Foundation Degree/Grad Cert/Grad Dip

  • Distinction: 70% or above
  • Merit: 60% to 69.99%
  • Pass: 40% to 59.99%

PGCERT/PGDIP/MA/MSc/LLM/MRes

  • Distinction: 70% or above
  • Merit: 60% - 69.99%
  • Pass: 50% - 59.99%

BA (Hons)/BSc (Hons)/LLB/MSci

  • First (1): 70% or above
  • Upper Second (2:1): 60% to 69.99%
  • Lower Second (2:2): 50% to 59.99%
  • Third (3): 40% to 49.99%