Ato Z Information Guide
Welcome to Abertay University I am writing to give you my personal welcome to Abertay University. I hope your time at Abertay will be a fulfilling experience that will support you in life and in your chosen career. My colleagues and I are looking forward to welcoming you to Abertay at Freshers Week. In-person welcome talks are scheduled for each academic programme, as well as some social activities providing you with an opportunity to meet new people as well as online information sessions. If you need any immediate support when you first arrive to your Halls of Residence, do make contact either directly with the reception desk (where this is provided) or contact us by email at residences@abertay.ac.uk/+44(0)1382 308049 My colleagues have provided you with a small goody bag of some useful items/treats, as well as some useful information. With all good wishes for Term One at Abertay, I wish you well.
Professor Nigel Seaton Principal and Vice-Chancellor
Abertay New Student Guide Hello and welcome to Abertay University and to Dundee Scotland! We have compiled this short guide to give you the information we think you will need in the first few days of arrival.
Important University Contacts https://www.abertay.ac.uk/about/contact-us/ •
SEZ is our Student Enquiry Zone Support Team who will be your first point of contact for most things you need. You can find SEZ based on the ground floor of the library next to the entrance. Tel: 01382 308833 | Email: SEZ@abertay.ac.uk | Visit: Ground floor in Library
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The Abertay 24 hour student support helpline is available 7 days a week, 365 days a year and can offer practical advice and guidance on a range of issues including anxiety, counselling, financial wellbeing, drug and alcohol worries, exam stress and much more. Tel: 0800 028 3766 | App: search ‘Health Assured - Health e-Hub’ | Username: Wellbeing Password: LandFindCoal20
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NHS24 provides health and care information for the people of Scotland. You can also call them, day or night, for urgent care advice and mental health support. Tel: 111 | Website: nhs24.scot
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NHS Scotland Pharmacy First provides advice, treatment and referral for minor illnesses and access to medicines and medical products, without the need of a prescription. Anyone registered with a GP in Scotland can use the service. Visit your local pharmacy to find out more - www.nhsinform.scot/scotlands-service-directory/pharmacies.
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Samaritans provide 24/7, 365 day a year mental health and support telephone service. Tel: 116 126 | Email: joe@samaritans.org.uk
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Breathing Space Scotland provides telephone counselling Monday – Thursday, 6pm-2am and Friday – Monday, 6pm – 6am. Tel: 0800 838587
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Nightline is a confidential listening and information service run by students, for students. Based at the University of Dundee, the service is open to Abertay students. Email: listening@dundeeuni.nightline.ac.uk (24/7)
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Our Residences Team are on-hand, Monday-Friday, for all your accommodation queries, including room allocation, payment of fees and cleaning / hygiene. Email: residences@abertay.ac.uk
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IT Services provides a frontline service to students and staff, Monday-Friday. Log a call: https://abertay.unidesk.ac.uk/tas/public/login/saml Email: itservices@abertay.ac.uk Tel (emergencies only): 01382 308888
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You can also reach out to us via our social media channels. Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok: @AbertayUni
The A-Z of Student Life at Abertay University
Abertay Citizen Code
As members of the Abertay community, students are expected to play their part in creating a safe and welcoming environment. The Abertay Citizen Code is an agreement between us as an institution and our student community to ensure everyone is aware of their responsibilities in creating an inclusive University that treats everyone fairly and with respect.
Abertay Students Association Abertay Students Association (Abertay SA) is led by students, for students. One of its main functions is to be your voice in the university, and to provide opportunities for you to have the best student experience. This is achieved by providing opportunities for elected representatives to work and campaign on your behalf, to be a place where students can join societies, and create new ones, and where students can access independent advice on University matters.
Our Student President and Vice President are your elected officers who will act on your behalf to raise important issues and ideas to the University. We also support your Class, Division and Community Reps who are elected to raise the voice of students. If you want to run for an elected position, form or join a society, or get support and advice then find out more on www.abertaysa.com or email hello@abertaysa.com. We look forward to seeing you!
Absence If you don’t feel well and cannot attend classes - either online or in-person - let your Lecturer know as soon as possible. If your absence affects assessment deadlines or examinations, you can apply for an extension or deferral under the Mitigating Circumstances procedure. https://abertay.co/ MitCircs. If you don’t attend classes or fail to engage with tutors or online learning materials for 15 working days, you risk being withdrawn from your programme so please keep in touch! The ‘Academic Support’ information below outlines the range of study support we provide to make sure you don’t fall behind.
Academic Calendar https://intranet.abertay.ac.uk/academic-calendar/
Academic Regulations The University Academic Regulations set out the requirements and expectations of student during their time at Abertay. https://abertay.co/AcaRegs
Academic Support Abertay students are supported throughout their academic studies in a number of ways: • • •
Each School is supported by an Academic Librarian who can help you to effectively research, evaluate and reference the information needed for your assignments. Our Learner Development service provides advice on academic writing, study strategies, and Academic English development, as well as offering a coursework feedback service. Students can also attend our virtual and in-person Study Skills drop-in sessions, which run every week during term time.
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The TELS (Technology Enhanced Learning Support) team are on-hand to improve your digital skills and get the most out of University systems. If you need to discuss attendance issues or the continuation of your studies, our School Academic Advisors can guide you through all your available options, including mitigating circumstances, deferrals and suspensions. You can also search ‘Navigating Your Studies’ on the Abertay intranet for additional advice. Your Module and Programme Leaders can answer any programme-specific queries.
Accommodation For specific information about University-owned accommodation, contact the University’s Residences Office or view our Guide to Staying in Halls. Local student accommodation providers also include Parker House, which is managed by IQ Student Accommodation, and Keiller Court, which is looked after by Mezzino / ArdMuir Portfolios. If you have problems or questions about accommodation, whether University or privately owned, you can email advisory@abertay.ac.uk or call our Abertay 24 hour student support helpline on 0800 028 3766. The Support Enquiry Zone can also provide a list of some private property companies within the Dundee area if you are considering renting privately.
The Advisory Service The Advisory Service offer appointments and drop-ins with advisors who can provide information and guidance on funding, budgeting, childcare, housing, financial issues, visas and immigration, tier 4 compliance, course difficulties, academic appeals, complaints, consumer issues, benefits and welfare rights, access and disability and SpLD support’. Email: advisory@abertay.ac.uk | Book an appointment: https://abertay.co/AbertayConnect
Attendance Your attendance at classes is your responsibility. You must register your attendance at every online or in-person class you attend: http://abertay.co/oncampus. If you don’t attend online or in-person classes, this can have a detrimental effect on your studies and, in extreme cases, even result in your withdrawal from the University. If you need to speak to someone about attendance issues, please reach out to sez@abertay.ac.uk or contact your School Academic Advisor.
Audio Visual Equipment Short term loans for both cameras, tripods, audio and voice recorders, microphones etc can be borrowed through the form at: https://abertay.co/Bookings. Pre-booked AV loans can be collected from SEZ on the ground floor of the Library.
Banks Most of the major UK banks and building societies have branches in Dundee. Many offer special student accounts. To open an account, you will need: • Passport • Visa (if applicable) • Letter from the University confirming your student status and address • If you are privately renting, you may be required to present your original lease or contract • Money (generally only £1 to open an account) Letters from the University confirming your address and student status are available via the ‘confirmation of studies’ tab on OASIS.
Blended Learning Abertay is a campus-based university and we look forward to welcoming you back on to campus. We believe that learning opportunities can be delivered in person on campus and through online activities. Blended learning is a mix of face-to-face teaching on campus, live online teaching sessions and virtual access to materials prepared in advance. The University intends to continue offering students an integrated blended learning model that builds on best educational practices.
Bullying and Harassment The University seeks to ensure that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. If you or a classmate are being bullied, you can report it (anonymously, if you want) via our online reporting tool Tell Us. If you make a named complaint, we will ensure you are supported and protected throughout the investigation process.
Buses Two companies run most of the bus services in and around Dundee – National Express Xplore and Stagecoach. Both offer discount options for students purchasing weekly or monthly tickets. Detailed bus maps and destinations can be found at: https://abertay.co/NXbusmap and https://abertay.co/ SCbusmap. Dundee’s Bus Station is located at Seagate, which is just a few minutes walk from campus. It provides connections to Scotland and many of the UK’s major cities, including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, London, Manchester, Newcastle and all the stops in-between. Plan your journey at: https://abertay.co/Dundeebuses.
Cafe The Library Café, situated next to the main Library entrance, sells hot and cold drinks and tasty snacks to eat-in or takeaway. Pop in anytime from 8.45am - 4.30pm, Monday – Friday.
Fancy something else? Take advantage of Abertay’s central location and find a wide range of cuisines, all within walking distance in Dundee city centre.
Campus Maps
Floor plans for the main University buildings, can be found at: https://abertay.co/CampusMaps.
If you are unsure where to find a room or service please ask Security at the main reception desk or at the Support Enquiry Zone (SEZ) on the ground floor of the Library.
Care Experienced Students The University recognises the additional challenges that can be faced by people who have been in local authority care. We can help you to access support through a range of measures, from providing financial advice to finding year-round accommodation. All information is held in strict confidence and will not be shared without your consent. Contact advisory@abertay.ac.uk to arrange an appointment to discuss your options.
Careers Service The Careers Service aims to help students make informed career choices throughout their time at university. We can give you practical advice on job hunting, making applications and interview techniques. We can also help you find a part-time job, voluntary work or work experience and identify ways in which to gain the essential experiences and skills to compete in the labour market.
Visit our Virtual Careers Centre for the latest tools and advice, or or post a query on Abertay Connect.
Changing Modules or Programme If you’re not sure the module you’ve chosen is the right fit, you can normally change it in the first three weeks of the semester. To do this, complete and submit the ‘Change Option Module’ form on OASIS. For programme change requests, you should talk to your Programme Leader and the Programme Leader of the course you’d like to change to before submitting a Programme Transfer Request Form available at: https://abertay.co/ProgTransfer. Any programme transfer requests must be submitted in the first two weeks of the session. Queries about programme or module changes can be sent to StuAdmin@abertay.ac.uk.
Cinema Abertay is within walking distance of Dundee Contemporary Arts Centre (DCA), home to a twoscreen cinema, Art Gallery, Print Studio and Café/Bar. Other cinemas in town include the Cineworld multiplex and Odeon Luxe, both a mere 25-minute bus journey from the city centre.
Coming from College? We recognise that coming from college to university can be different or even daunting at times. We have a range of support sessions and tools to help you prepare for University learning. Contact learnerdevelopment@abertay.ac.uk to find out more.
Complaints Abertay is committed to providing an excellent education and high-quality service to all our students and we hope that you will never need to file a complaint during your time here. However, if something goes wrong or you are dissatisfied with our services, you can let us know via our Complaints Handling Procedure. Find out more at: https://abertay.co/Complaints You can also make a report via our online reporting tool Tell Us, anonymously if you want.
Counselling and Mental Health Service Starting University isn’t always easy; some students find it difficult to make friends, adjust to a new city or cope with programme demands. The Counselling and Mental Health Service is free to all Abertay students and can provide confidential support for a number of issues including anxiety, depression, self-harm, stress, bullying, loneliness and other mental health difficulties. They can also simply provide an opportunity for you to explore issues that concern you, without judgement. If you are struggling in any way, don’t wait until it gets worse. Contact the team at counselling@abertay. ac.uk.
Covid-19/Coronavirus Students are assured that the University continues to operate in a Covid-safe manner with additional safety measures – such as enhanced cleaning, hand sanitisation stations and good ventilation visible on campus as standard. Large lectures will continue to take place online to minimise the risk of transmission within large groups, and LFD testing kits are available to all students throughout the year. Find out more about the latest Covid updates at: https://www.abertay.ac.uk/coronavirus.
Debt
We are sympathetic that sometimes students can experience difficulties paying fees and charges to the University. If your financial circumstances mean that you cannot afford to pay tuition or accommodation fees, please get in touch so we can support you. Contact advisory@abertay.ac.uk in the first instance or view our emergency funding packages at: https://abertay.co/advisoryfunds.
Disabled Students and Students with Dyslexia and other SPLDs
Students who have a disability, specific learning difficulty (SpLD) or medical condition are encouraged to contact one of the Student Advisers to discuss ways the University can support you during your studies, including arranging a screening assessment. We can also help you apply for Disabled Student Allowance, which can help you cover any equipment or support costs you may have (if eligible). Information that you disclose is held in confidence and will only be passed on to relevant members of staff with your consent. Email advisory@abertay.ac.uk or make an appointment via Abertay Connect at: https://abertay.co/ AbertayConnect.
Discipline and Conduct There are two Student Codes of Conduct at Abertay that outline the University’s procedure for investigating instances where students have not complied with standards of expected behaviour. The purpose of the Codes is to help and encourage students to achieve and maintain acceptable academic practice, relating to matters such as plagiarism, academic deceit or cheating, and nonacademic practice, which covers behaviours that are likely to cause harm or injury to other members of the University, or damage the University’s good name and reputation. We recommend all new students familiarise themselves with each code at: https://abertay.co/Conduct.
Emergencies If you require urgent, non-life threatening, medical attention, call NHS24 at 111. They can provide urgent care and advice when your GP, pharmacy or dentist is closed. For emergency medical attention, call 999 or attend Ninewells Hospital, Accident and Emergency, Kirsty Semple Way, Dundee as soon as possible.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion The University is committed to promoting equal opportunities and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The University Lead Voices scheme provides representation to all students and staff with protected characteristics and our Abertay Citizen Code is an agreement between us as an institution and our student community to ensure everyone is aware of their responsibilities in creating an inclusive University that treats everyone fairly and with respect. Any student who is suspected of, or has been found to have behaved in a manner that the University considers to be discriminatory, will be subject to disciplinary action. Further information can be found at: https://abertay.co/EDI.
Faith Abertay is proud of its diverse multicultural community and recognises the importance that faith, belief and spirituality play in the lives of many people. There are a number of prayer rooms / quiet rooms across campus for groups and individuals of all faiths to meet, pray, meditate or reflect. You can find these via our campus maps at: https://abertay. co/CampusMaps
Financial Support Students can access hardship or emergency funding via the Advisory Service. A variety of non-repayable funds are available for Home, International and RUK students, as well as Nursing students and those seeking Childcare support. A full list of available funds and eligibility criteria can be found at: https://abertay.co/advisoryfunds or by emailing advisory@abertay.ac.uk.
Food Dundee has a wide range of supermarkets, many of which provide home delivery. View list of recommended stores below. Students who are experiencing hardship, or are self-isolating due to Covid, can request a complementary food delivery voucher from the Advisory Service. Email advisory@abertay.ac.uk to let them know.
Basic fresh food and household goods Everyday low prices and discounted goods Within walking distance of Abertay at South Ward Road.
Free next day delivery (orders over £40) Within walking distance of Abertay at Wellgate Shopping Centre
Basic fresh food and household goods Online or App www.snappyshopper. co.uk Delivery from 30 mins From £2.95
Online or App https://deliveroo.co.uk/ Large selection of cooked food from local takeaways Delivery 20+ minutes from £1.99.
Online or App https://www.asda.com/ Large choice of fresh food and household goods Next day delivery / click and collect from £1 (orders over £40)
Online or App https://www.just-eat. co.uk/ Large selection of cooked food from local takeaways Delivery 20+ minutes from £1.99.
Online or App https://www.tesco.com/ groceries/ Large choice of fresh food and household goods Next day delivery / click and collect from £2 (orders over £40) Online or App https://groceries. morrisons.com/ Large choice of fresh food and household goods Next day delivery / click and collect for £3 or free on orders over £40 Online or App https://www.iceland. co.uk/
Online or App https://www.ubereats. com/gb Large selection of cooked food from local takeaways including KFC, McDonalds, Burger King etc. Delivery 20+ minutes from 79p Dundee directory of individual retailers here: https://dundeedirectory. co.uk/shop-local/ A range of local independent retailers offering food deliveries from cooked food to fresh groceries
Gym Abertay Sport runs the University sports clubs, outdoor sports, taster sessions and the Abertay Sports Injury Clinic. They also run the Abertay Gym, which is located on the ground floor of the Graham Building on campus and is open Monday- Sunday throughout term, with reduced opening over the summer. Memberships start at £30 and will give you access to a range of equipment including Olympic platforms and bars, Eleiko plates, and newly-installed Matrix based Cardio machines and trainers. Find out more at: https://abertay.co/ Sport.
Health, Safety and Wellbeing Your health and well-being as a student at Abertay is extremelyimportant to us and we urge all new students to register with a GP/ doctor as quickly as possible. Other useful services include NHS Pharmacy First Scotland, which offers advice, treatment and referral for minor illnesses, and access to medicines (you must register with a GP first), and NHS Inform, which provides self-help advice. We also provide a range of self-help techniques, including meditation, food and nutrition advice, breathing exercises and much more via our MyWellbeing student health app. For information on Health and Safety at the University, when travelling for University business, or on placements, visit: https://abertay.co/HSintranet. In an emergency: If you require urgent, non-life threatening, medical attention, call NHS24 on 111. They can provide urgent care and advice when your GP, pharmacy or dentist is closed. For emergency medical attention, call 999 or attend Ninewells Hospital, Accident and Emergency, Kirsty Semple Way, Dundee as soon as possible.
HEAR Abertay graduates can demonstrate extracurricular achievements via the Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR). Your HEAR is an extended academic transcript and will contain detailed information about your learning and achievements. Along with your degree certificate, your HEAR will support applications for employment and further study. Findn out more at: https://abertay.co/HEAR.
Homesickness and Loneliness Starting your university career is an exciting time. But it can also be a daunting time; leaving home, moving away from family and friends, and trying to learn a new subject can make it difficult to adjust. Here’s some top tips if you ever feel lonely or homesick: •
Pace yourself, spending time to reflect on your new experiences.
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Expect it to be nerve-wracking occasionally, but not because you’re not doing it right. Anxiety at this stage is totally normal and if you don’t find your lifetime friends in the first fortnight, you’re not the only one.
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Don’t beat yourself up if you are not always at ease socially, or if you say or do something you later regret.
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Don’t be pressurised into doing things you don’t want to do.
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Maximise the chances of finding people you get on with by going to things that you know you’ll enjoy, even if your flatmates won’t go with you.
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Be honest with yourself and ask yourself “what do I need?” and when you have the answer go to it, honour yourself by meeting that need. It may require you to have courage, accept help from others, such as friends or the counsellors, take risks, expand your horizons a bit, but you’ll be glad you did.
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Don’t forget, our SEZ (sez@abertay.ac.uk), Advisory (advisory@abertay.ac.uk) and Counselling (counselling@abertay.ac.uk) teams are always on-hand to support you through any difficulties you’re having settling in. Reach out to them if you need to talk.
International Student Advice Advice for international and EU students is available from the Advisory Service. Advice includes information on immigration, visas, entry clearance and general pastoral care. Email advisory@abertay.ac.uk or visit: https://abertay.co/International.
Intranet The Intranet is your online gateway to the University and gives you access to your email, learning resources for your course, your timetable, your results and much more. Log on via the MyAbertay dashboard or visit https://intranet.abertay.ac.uk/
IT Services The IT Service Desk is your first point of contact for any IT, software, email or computer problems. Log a call by emailing itservices@abertay.ac.uk or via the UniDesk portal.
LGBTQ+ Abertay aims to provide an inclusive and supportive environment for all members of our LGBTQ+ community. The University Lead Voices scheme provides representation to all students and staff with protected characteristics and the Abertay LGBT society is approachable, social and dedicated to LGBTQ+ causes and campaigns. If you find exploring your sexuality or gender identity difficult in any way, our Counselling and Mental Health team are also on hand to help.
Library The Bernard King Library is an important resource that you’ll use regularly whilst studying at Abertay. Staff are here to support your studies by providing a wealth of excellent learning resources, comfortable and flexible study spaces and access to expert help and advice. You can also search and use our collections of high quality and trusted online resources from on or off campus https://www.abertay.ac.uk/life/the-bernard-king-library/
Lockers Lockers are available across the campus for hire to store books, bags and personal items while you are in class. You can request a locker at any time throughout the year by contacting the Support Enquiry Zone (sez@abertay.ac.uk) on the ground floor of the Library.
Lost Property The Security desk based in the Kydd Building reception is the place to take any items of lost property that you find. If you have lost anything, the Security Desk keeps everything handed in for a period before passing it into the police. Contact them at security@ abertay.ac.uk.
Mental Health
Anyone can feel down or depressed from time to time. It helps to talk to someone. Our Counselling and Mental Health Service can help you explore issues and get the help you need. You may also be referred to the University Mental Health Advisor who can identify your support needs, discuss strategies for managing student life, or provide information and access to local mental health services. Email counselling@abertay.ac.uk to make an appointment.
The Abertay 24 hour student support helpline is also available 7 days a week, 365 days a year and can offer practical advice and guidance on a range of issues including anxiety, counselling, financial wellbeing, drug and alcohol worries, exam stress and much more. Tel: 0800 028 3766 | App: search ‘Health Assured - Health e-Hub’ - Username: Wellbeing Password: LandFindCoal20 Students can also learn about self-care and coping techniques via the MyWellbeing app, available by searching ‘Abertay MyWellbeing’.
MyLearningSpace Abertay’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), MyLearningSpace, provides staff and students with a modern online learning platform to access module information, assessments, feedback, reading lists and other learning resources. MyLearningSpace also supports collaborative learning activities between students and teaching staff, such as discussion forums and virtual classrooms. Access it via the MyLearningSpace tile on MyAbertay or using the URL: https://abertay.co/MLS.
MySuccess at Abertay Modules All first year students at Abertay will complete an introductory module, ABE101 ‘Abertay 101 - Being Successful at Abertay’, designed to help students realise their full potential during their time at University. This credit bearing module is compulsory and part of the first year of academic study and will help you build the foundations for your future success at Abertay and beyond. As part of the registration process you will have the opportunity to select other 5-credit optional ABE microcredential modules covering topics such as Successful Writing, Planning your Future Career, Welcome to the CommuniTAY, and Wellbeing tools and tricks.
OASIS - the Online Abertay Student Information System OASIS is linked directly to the Student Records database and contains essential student functions and important information. OASIS is the only area where you can access your student record. Access OASIS at: https://abertay.co/OASIS.
Peer Mentors
The Abertay Peer Mentoring Programme connects students to other students. Abertay Mentors are experienced students who are keen to support the academic and personal success of others. Mentors participate in training, and are equipped with skills, resources, and their own experiences to help their fellow students. Find out more at: https://abertay.co/ PeerMentors.
Pregnancy and parenthood Becoming a parent while you are studying can provide additional challenges. If you are pregnant or a nursing mother and need additional support, for instance getting access to a comfortable space where you can breastfeed, please contact the Advisory Service at advisory@abertay.ac.uk. If your course includes practical lab work handling specialist materials, you must inform the tutor supervising the class that you are pregnant.
Printing Printers are available in the Library and in the Kydd Building. Black & white printing costs 5p per A4 sheet and you can buy print credits, at the self-service credit station in the Library foyer or, at the Support Enquiry Zone (SEZ). You need to log in to the printers with your student card or with your username and password.
Principal’s Award The Principal’s Award is a student development programme run by the Careers Service. It recognises and rewards your work-related skills and achievements and provides opportunities for activities such as work placements with local SMEs. If successfully completed it will appear in your HEAR. The award runs over one academic year and can easily be combined with your studies. It is particularly relevant to 2nd and 3rd year students but we are happy to hear from any students who feel they would benefit from the experience. To find out more about the Principal’s Award and how to apply email principalsaward@abertay.ac.uk.
Reading Lists Reading lists provide students with easy access to key learning resources including e-book and online journal articles or anything your tutor thinks is relevant to the completion of coursework. You will find a link to the list for each module in MyLearningSpace.
Registration Students are required to register for modules with the University every academic year. This allows us to keep an accurate record of your academic achievements. Most new and returning students will register online via OASIS but some international students may be required to register in person. Further information and a link to register will be sent via email ahead of the new academic year.
Schools You will be a student in one of the University’s three academic Schools: • • •
School of Applied Sciences (SAS) Dean, Andrea Cameron School of Business, Law and Social Sciences (BLS) Dean, Professor Mohamed Branine. School of Design and Informatics (SDI) Dean, Professor Gregor White
Find out more at: https://abertay.co/Schools
School Academic Advisors Each School has a designated School Academic Advisor for students requiring continuation of studies advice. This can range from attendance issues, appealing assessment board decisions, mitigating circumstances and suspension or withdrawal from studies. Your School Academic Advisors are: School of Applied Sciences (SAS) Noella McAra - n.mcara@abertay.ac.uk School of Business, Law and Social Sciences (BLS) Jan Law - j.law@abertay.ac.uk School of Design and Informatics (SDI) Dr Euan Dempster - e.dempster@abertay.ac.uk
Sexual Consent As part of the Abertay Citizen Code, students are expected to understand and adhere to the laws around sexual consent. In Scotland, consent relates to a person’s willingness to agree to have sex or engage in sexual activity, including any form of sexual touching or penetration. Other nonconsensual behaviours, such as groping or grabbing or making lewd or uninvited sexual comments – either in person or by electronic device - are considered sexual harassment and could result in prosecution under the Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act 2009 and/or withdrawal from the University. To make sure you understand your responsibilities in relation to sexual consent, we ask that all students complete our online module Consent on Campus, which provides insights and examples to help you navigate issues relating to consent within a university setting.
Socialising Safely Whenever you are going out, leave details of where you are going, who you are meeting and when you expect to return. If your plans change, tell a friend or flatmate. When meeting new people, trust your instincts: if someone makes you nervous or uneasy, leave immediately. And, remember, if you see or experience anything that doesn’t feel right, let us know at https://tellsus.abertay.ac.uk.
Societies Student societies provide an excellent way to meet new people and try new experiences, and being a member of an Abertay society looks great on your CV as well, as more and more employers are looking for evidence of skills gained outside your course. If you can’t find a society you’d like to join, why not create your own? It’s easy to doat: https://www. abertaysa.com/societies
Sports Clubs University is a great place to make new friends, take up new hobbies or develop existing ones. Aberaty Sport offer the opportunity to join a number of sports clubs. Each club has an extensive programme of events during the year, including training sessions, nights out and competitions. If your favourite sport is not catered for, we will support you in the formation of your club. Details of our sports clubs can be found at www.abertay.ac.uk/life/abertay-sport/.
Student Card Abertay issues all new students with an ID card that allows them to access the University premises. These smart cards allow you to borrow Library books, access printing facilities, and can often be used as evidence required for students entry / discounts / Totum cards. You can also find a copy of your Digital ID card on MyAbertay. In order for your student ID card to be available when you come to enrol and register for the first time as a student, please email a JPEG photo formatted to StuAdmin@abertay.ac.uk.
Student Voice Forum There is an opportunity for formal feedback about your programme via your elected student representatives at a Student Voice Forum meeting once per term. Feedback from students is very important, and the meeting will be used as a forum for staff to discuss new ideas and seek your views on the development, operation and enhancement of your programme. Student representatives will be elected by you in conjunction with the Abertay Student Association at the start of each academic session.
Student Records The University’s Student Administration Team maintain a comprehensive record of your student history. Most of your information is obtained when you register and your file is updated to record your academic progress throughout your time of study. The team also organises student assessment boards, exam timetables and HEAR. Email them at STuAdmin@abertay.c.uk. The University will usually contact you through your Abertay email address, but please make sure that your personal email address and home and contact address are up-to-date via OASIS.
Study Spaces There are individual study spaces in the Library as well as group study rooms with presentation equipment. Whether you want to work with friends, on your own in silence, read quietly, use a campus PC or use your own laptop, the Library will have something to offer you. You can book the group study rooms in advance – just ask at the Support Enquiry Zone (SEZ) in the Library or online via the Resource Booking Request page bookings.abertay.ac.uk.
Support Enquiry Zone (SEZ) If you have any questions or are not sure where to go for the answers, the Support Enquiry Zone (SEZ) is your first point of call! They provide a ‘One Stop Shop’ for all University Services, and you’ll find friendly and supportive staff who can assist you with many aspects of University life. Tel: 01382 308833 | Email: SEZ@abertay.ac.uk | Visit: Ground floor in Library
Things to do in Dundee! Excited to be in a new city? Here are some of our favourite things to do in Dundee. • • • • •
Catch the No 5 or No. 73 bus to Broughty Ferry, visit the beach, grab an ice cream or do some bargain hunting at their amazing range of vintage shops. Visit V&A Dundee, Scotland’s only museum of design. As part of Freshers Week, new students will be invited to a private tour of its exhibitions, along with a wee dram on us. McManus Galleries, ‘Scotland’s Best Visitor Attraction’ is only a couple of minutes walk from Abertay and contains 8 separate galleries covering early man, decorative art, and industry artefacts. The RRS Discovery and museum is located directly beside V&A Dundee and on the opposite side is our 7000 sq ft Urban Beach on Waterfront Place, which provides cycle hire, interactive play and a place to meet, eat and relax. Fancy something a bit more active? We have a range of stunning walking routes around the city. Or you can hire an e-bike from www.rideondundee.com.
For more detailed guides, you can check out Creative Dundee’s 99 Things to see and do in Dundee, Dundee City Council’s ‘What’s On’ guide (https://www.dundeecity.gov.uk/events) and Dundee Box Office (https://www.dundeebox.co.uk/Online/)
Timetables Timetables are issued shortly after completing Registration. You will be notified once they are live. Throughout the year, you can view your timetable at: https://mytimetable.abertay.ac.uk/
Totum card Totum is the definitive student discount card with a range of exclusive discounts, offers and competitions designed to make student life more exciting, more memorable and more rewarding. Use it to make your money go further on books, clothes, sports stuff, CDs, travel, computer gear, gigs, eating out. Get yours at: https://www.totum.com/.
Trains Dundee train station is located at the bottom of South Union Street, a short walk (10-15 minutes) from Abertay. It provides connections to most UK train stations. Train timetables, ticket prices and other information can be found at https://www.scotrail.co.uk/ or visiting the helpdesk within the station.
Tuition Fees Tuition fee rates for all students and courses can be found on the Abertay University website: https://abertay.co/NGEx.
Much of the University has WiFi access, available FREE using your Abetay credentials. Further information, setup guides and troubleshooting advice can be found at: https:// abertay.co/Wifi.
WiFi
Withdrawals Students considering withdrawing from their studies should speak to someone as soon as possible to discuss their options. Your School Academic Advisor can provide academic advice and the Advisory Service (advisory@abertay.ac.uk) can discuss matters relating to tuition fees, repeat funding and can help you build a ‘return to study’ support plan. If you are in any doubt about continuing with your studies, please get in touch as soon as you can.
Students who don’t attend online or in-person teaching, and who don’t engage with online learning materials, may be withdrawn by the University in extreme cases. If you speak to us, we can support you and help you make an informed decision about continuing with your studies.
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Is my query/issue to do with a specific module eg subject material being covered, assessments, feedback?
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NO
YES
Attend module classes and speak with a member of the module team
Is it to do with an academic aspect of my programme of study eg module options, changing modules, my progress, assessment board decisions careerdevelopment/ opportunities?
YES
Make an appointment to discuss the issue with my programme leader
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NO
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Speak to a member of staff in the Support Enquiry Zone (SEZ); or the Advisory Service.
Is it to do with the continuation of my studies eg protracted attendance issues, appealing assessment board decisions, suspending studies, mitigating cicumstances? YES
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Speak to your School Academic Advisor, a member of staff in the Support Enquiry Zone (SEZ) or the Advisory Service.
Speak to a member of staff in the Support Enquiry Zone (SEZ) or the Advisory Service.
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Abertay University is a charity registered in Scotland, No: SC016040.