Sohar University. Masters Programmes Student Handbook

Transcription

1 Sohar University Masters Programmes Student Handbook Academic Year

2 A Message from the Vice Chancellor Welcome to Sohar University. We intend that your learning experience with us be a satisfying, rewarding and engaging one. This student handbook is an important document that will help us work together to achieve this. With the benefit of generous financial support from His Majesty s government, Sohar University is engaging in major expansion and improvement in its infrastructure. The first phase of this expansion is mostly completed, and the new Business and Engineering buildings are in full use. The iconic new Learning Resource Centre will become operational this academic year. These enhancements of Sohar University will greatly improve the quality of the educational experience of our students and, therefore, be of great economic benefit to the region. The programs at Sohar University are taught by well-qualified academics. The quality control and quality assurance of our programs continue to be overseen by both local and international universities. However, the University also has its own internal academic regulations, as well as robust systems for the quality assurance of those programs. We are committed to creating an inspiring culture of creativity, innovation and enterprise. We are sure that bringing research knowledge into our teaching is an important way to enhance the relevance and quality of our courses. This handbook is designed to help you throughout your course of study and you should retain it for future reference. Please read it carefully it summarises important regulation and procedures that will help you to achieve your goals. This is a necessary first step towards taking responsibility for your own studies, and becoming an active learner. Do not complain afterwards that you did not know the rules! I am sure you will enjoy the challenge that studying at university brings, and I look forward to congratulating you at the graduation ceremony that will mark the culmination of this important step along your chosen career path. Finally, may I take the opportunity once again of wishing you every success in your studies at Sohar University. Professor Raymond Volker Vice Chancellor 0

3 Table of Contents 1 A Message from the Vice Chancellor The University, its Mission and Context Brief History Academic Faculties Academic Support Departments Student Responsibility and Academic Advising Student Responsibility Academic Advising Policy 8 4 University Rules and Regulations Introduction General Rules and Regulations Student Behaviour Harassment Student Disciplinary Procedures Student Disciplinary Procedure Stages Appeal to the Vice Chancellor Academic Programs Definition of Awards Period of Study Medium of Instruction The Academic Year Study Period Grading System Admission Regulations General Principles General Entry Requirements for Masters Programs MBA Masters in Education M.Sc. (Computer Science) Program Application Procedure Offer of admission can be provisional or final Registration Additional Courses Progression Completing the Program Fees Student Requirements General Assessment Procedures On-Course Assessment Dissertations Examinations: Instructions for Students Passing a Course Failure in a Course Repeating Courses Mitigating Circumstances Consideration of Mitigating Circumstances

4 4.9.9 Grade Point Average (GPA) Study Deferral Policy Termination of study Re-admission Queries and Appeals against Assessment Decisions Academic Misconduct Academic Misconduct Principles Classification of Seriousness and Penalties Academic Misconduct: Detection and Reporting Academic Misconduct: Student Attendance and Notification Academic Misconduct: The Faculty Hearing University Panel for Academic Misconduct Panel Hearing Procedure Records Appeals against Verdicts and/or Penalties for Academic Misconduct Complaints Policy Procedures Formal Complaint: First Stage Formal Complaint: Second Stage Formal Complaint: Final Stage Special Circumstances Attendance Requirements Support Services Learning Resources Centre (LRC) Staff Directory Hours of operation Resources and Services Facilities Locating resources Borrowing resources Rules and Regulations Information Technology Services (ITS) Regulations Internet Policy Regulations for the Use of Information Technology Laboratories Additional provisions Continuation of study Personal Property Cars On Campus Dress Code Smoking Litter Mobile Telephones Visitors Academic Staff Senior Academic Staff Faculty of Education & Arts Faculty of Business Faculty of Computing and Information Technology

5 7 Program Outlines Faculty of Arts And Law Master of Curriculum and Teaching Methods Master of Educational Administration Faculty of Business MBA Program Matrix Faculty of Computing And Information Technology Technology Master of Computer Science

6 2 The University, its Mission and Context Welcome to Sohar University s Master s programme. Our aim is to provide you with a quality learning experience that will challenge and stretch you, opening your mind, encouraging you to think in new ways and ultimately helping you to become the champion of change in your life and work. Achieving the Master s degree requires that you become, literally, a master of your subject, familiar with its key concepts, theories and method, and well able to use these ideas to shape professional practice. You will read widely and critically, acquiring new knowledge, but also, and as importantly, a thirst for learning. This handbook provides a general overview of the University, student support, rules and regulations and programmes. It also provides specific information on the following programmes: Master in Business Administration (MBA) Master in Computer Science Master in Education which has 4 streams: o Master of Educational Administration o Master of Curriculum and Teaching Methods (Science) o Master of Curriculum and Teaching Methods (Arabic) o Master of Curriculum and Teaching Methods (General) 2.1 Brief History Sohar University (SU) was established by Royal Decree and was incorporated by the Oman Ministry of Higher Education on 11 September 2001 as the first private university in Oman. It was granted degree awarding powers, with the authority to provide programs and courses whose successful completion leads to the academic awards of Sohar University. This authority is, of course, subject to the rulings of the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) and the Oman Academic Accreditation Authority (OAAA). University Vision To be internationally recognised as an inclusive university of excellence through quality teaching, research and engagement that increasingly adds value to the economy, society and culture of Oman. University Mission To develop skilled, knowledgeable, articulate and enterprising graduates who, through their challenging learning experience at Sohar University, are able to contribute effectively to the changing world in which they live and work. 4

7 2.2 Academic Faculties General Foundation Program The Foundation Program (GFP) is not a faculty in itself, but rather its role is to prepare and equip high school graduates with skills that will qualify them for admission into faculty programs. To this end, and in line with the Oman Academic Standards set by the OAAA, Sohar University offers a full-time General Foundation Program, with a focus on three major areas of academic competence: English, Information Technology and, Mathematics. Faculty of Education and Arts The Faculty of Education and Arts offers undergraduate programs leading to Bachelor, Physical Education, and Arabic Studies. In addition, the Faculty offers a number of postgraduate educational awards at Master s level. Faculty of Business The Faculty of Business at Sohar University currently offers Diploma, Advanced Diploma, and Bachelor in Accounting, Management, Marketing, Management Information Systems, and Business and Commercial Law programmes. It now also offers an Executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme. Faculty of Computing and Information Technology The Faculty of Computing and Information Technology focuses on practical-based information technology and computing. We emphasize the ways in which these skills can be applied to real world problems. Programs are offered in Computing and Multimedia, Computing and Web Engineering, Networking and Databases, and Business Information Technology. The programs also give students the opportunity to obtain internationally recognized certification from well-known companies such as Adobe, Oracle and Cisco after passing the required tests. The Faculty now offers a Master s degree in Computer Science. Faculty of Engineering The Faculty of Engineering offers a range of programs which provide a balanced engineering education attuned to local, regional and national labour market needs. Programs are offered in Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Chemical Engineering. Proposals have been accepted by the Ministry of Higher Education to add Materials Engineering to this list. The faculty is working on further proposals for a Master degree in Engineering. Faculty of English and Language Studies The Faculty of English and Language Studies offers undergraduate programs in English Language Studies, Translation, and Communication. These courses are intended for students who want to work in fields where language and communication skills are vital. The faculty also hosts the UNIR English language support programme, 5

8 and is currently preparing proposals for a Master degree in the Teaching Of English as a Foreign Language (ToEFL). Faculty of Law The new Faculty of Law offers the LLB programme at undergraduate level. 2.3 Academic Support Departments Admission and Registration The Admission and Registration department records and maintains student information regarding admission, registration in programs and courses, as well as results. They also issue transcripts and other related certificates to students. IT Services The Information Technology Services department (ITS) is responsible for providing and supporting Sohar University s computer-based information systems. Its objective is to ensure that SU has the most advanced and effective information technology resources and tools to support the information technology needs of the University s Faculties, students and staff. Learning Resources Centre The Learning Resource Centre (LRC) is currently located in temporary premises. The new LRC is nearing completion and will open in the academic year. The LRC contains a large collection of up-to-date library resources, including on-line resources, in addition to other facilities to assist staff and students. Student Affairs The Pro Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs (PVCSA) is responsible for helping students by providing them with comprehensive services including accommodation, transport and health care. The PVCSA also involves students in extracurricular activities to develop their personalities and skills. The PVCSA manages the following departments/ sections: Student Activities The Student Activities section plays an important role in developing and providing activity programs which develop students skills and promote their participation in serving the community. Through extracurricular activities, students are encouraged to discover and develop their own skills and abilities. The Student Council, and other student groups, are also channels for student participation in decision-making. The range of supported student activities includes cultural activities such as seminars, theatrical activities, cultural competitions - fine arts, photography, and art exhibitions and athletic activities such as training and sport competitions. Student Accommodation The University has a number of residences located nearby, including on-campus. The majority of the rooms in each residence are available on a share-room basis, but there 6

9 are also a limited number of single rooms which can be provided at an additional cost to the standard accommodation fee. For all residences, the supply and laundering of room linen, daily cleaning of common entrances, stairways and other communal areas, and all light, water and airconditioning costs are included in the standard accommodation fees. Accommodation fees are additional to the academic fees and transportation charges, and are published prior to the commencement of each academic year. Student Transport The University provides a number of transport services for students studying at the campus. Students staying off-site may take advantage of daily bus services to and from the campus. The University arranges bus services to and from the campus within the North Batinah Region, south to Al-Khaboorah and north to Shinas. Students staying in university residences off-campus may also take advantage of the service. A weekly bus service to Muscat and other regions, run by the University, departs the campus on Thursday evening and returns to the student accommodation residences on Saturday afternoon. There is also a weekly supervised bus service to local food markets. Student Health Services The University has an on-campus clinic to provide emergency and outpatient care. In addition, the Sohar community is well-serviced by general medical and hospital facilities, and by first class specialist medical facilities. The University will organize and assist with visits to these facilities if required by any student. The University will also provide free after-hours and emergency care for students staying in the male and female residences. An ambulance is available to take serious emergency cases to a local hospital. Academic and Psychological Counselling The University provides academic and personal counselling and advice through development, precaution and treatment programs so that students may maintain maximum academic progress and gain full benefit from the learning environment of the University. Students may also obtain advice and information about the University s academic regulations and their application from the Student Administration Section. Training & Alumni Affairs The Training & Alumni Affairs Office aims to provide an interface between Sohar University students and the best avenues to utilize their skills by helping them find gainful employment and training places. In addition, it follows up graduates and records their post-graduation activities such as their current employment status, current educational status, the types of colleges they are attending, and their occupational goals. Moreover, the section aims to raise students awareness of the knowledge, skills, information, and attitudes needed to positively improve their own life career development. 7

10 3 Student Responsibility and Academic Advising 3.1 Student Responsibilities: To acquire the information needed to assume final responsibility for course scheduling, program planning, and the successful completion of all graduation requirements. To use the Student Handbook to find out about university requirements as well as program requirements and to check prerequisites for courses. To know about university rules, requirements, policies, and procedures. To be aware of important dates and deadlines (e.g., the last day to drop/add a course, last day to pay tuition fees without incurring late fees, last day for obtaining student ID etc.).,the calendar is available on the university website. To check their own university account regularly, read messages from official university offices, and respond as appropriate. To schedule a meeting, at least once a semester, with the advisor who works with your program to ensure you are making steady progress towards graduation. To attend meetings, on time and well prepared set goals, generate a list of questions and ideas to share with the advisor. To be courteous and respectful; turn off your cell phone before you enter your meeting. To seek assistance from an advisor whenever academic concerns or difficulties arise. While exploring potential fields of interest, students can meet with an advisor who works with that program. 3.2 Academic Advising Policy This policy is to set a foundation of systematic and unified academic advising and guidance at Sohar University across its faculties. Academic advising at Sohar University is expected to provide supportive and informative services that assist students to understand the university rules and regulations, academic program requirements, program options and campus services. The essence of this policy is the idea that each member of academic staff should be involved, should serve as a facilitator and work to engage students to make informed decisions regarding their education, career, and life goals. By encouraging students to be active learners and active members of the university community, academic advising policy is expected to assist students in six main areas: With their transition to university life. To become familiar with and follow academic policies, rules, procedures, and requirements. To take responsibility for their learning and goal setting. To develop educational plans consistent with their interests, abilities, and goals To implement appropriate strategies & tactics for achieving their goals. To graduate in a timely manner, successfully meeting all requirements. 8

11 The advisor will assist students with all aspects of their academic planning while providing a foundation for appropriate academic decisions throughout their undergraduate studies. Therefore, students will be accurately advised to achieve their learning goals. Student advising needs to evolve as they progress through their undergraduate career. The issues of greatest concern for a first-year student are likely to be quite different from those of a senior or incoming transfer student. The advising procedures are: Each faculty member is assigned to a number of students to advise them throughout their study life, with the support of other university offices and departments. Advisors help undecided students to identify their appropriate programs and students in all programs that have questions about their impending graduation. The faculty office is to maintain a complete list of programs and courses offered at the faculty. Students interested in these programs receive advice from academic advisors as first-year and/or continuing students. Students accepted into the evening program, when applicable, then receive academic advising in that context. Students should consult their advisors in handling all of their regular advising needs, including: (Registration, Changing program, Changing stream, Add/drop courses, Academic progression requirements, Certifying for graduation, scholarship, etc.) 9

12 4 University Rules and Regulations 1.4 Introduction These academic regulations for Sohar University Master degrees are supplemental to the general University Regulations for Academic Programs, found in the Academic Quality Handbook (Part B). These regulations are specific to Masters degrees and will cover areas including: Admission and Entry Requirements, Eligibility, Courses and Assessments. Provisions in the general regulations such as Queries and Appeals, Academic Offences, the Student Code of Conduct and Complaints, apply to the Masters student as to any other student. Please note that the rules and regulations for Masters in Business Administration (MBA) and the Masters in Computer Science are common to both programs, whilst there are some specific rules and regulations that pertain to the Masters in Education. These will be made clear in the following sections of the handbook. 4.2 General Rules and Regulations Student Behaviour Students are required to familiarize themselves with the general regulations and assessment regulations to which they are subject. In addition, students shall be subject to the Code of Conduct for students, Student Disciplinary Procedures (where necessary due to infringement of the Code), and other regulations as approved from time to time. Following enrolment, students must: sign an agreement that they are willing to conform to the regulations and Code of Conduct. notify the University of any change of address and/or telephone number. notify the University of any non-receipt of assessment results. notify the University of any additional employment undertaken, particularly any which might impact on their studies. Students are expected to conduct themselves with due regard for their responsibilities as adults and members of the academic community, and with regard for the good name and reputation of the University. A student will have breached the Code of Conduct if he, or she, has: engaged in any behaviour that prevents, obstructs or disrupts any teaching, learning or research; administrative activity of the University; sporting, recreational, and social activities; any meeting or activity approved by the University acted in a way likely to cause injury to or impair the health of others 10

13 obstructed or attempted to obstruct access to University premises assaulted, engaged in sexual or racial harassment, or otherwise insulted a student, member of staff, employee of, or visitor to, the University, or engaged in any other sexist or racist behaviour liable to give serious offence acted in a violent, indecent, or threatening manner, or insubordinate behaviour (such as the refusal to follow reasonable instructions) misused, or caused damage to, University premises or property, including damage to materials, furniture, equipment belonging to University staff or students (and including misuse of the worldwide web, for example for pornographic purposes) misappropriated any funds or assets of the University committed a breach of the regulations, for example the assessment regulation, by committing an academic offence abused the privacy of any confidential files of material (for example, unauthorized access to student records) been found guilty of any criminal offence engaged in fraud, deceit, deception, or dishonesty (for example, forging a signature) failed to adhere to any additional Code of Practice, for example those relating to the usage of the Library, learning resources and IT failed to comply with a previous sanction or penalty imposed behaved in a way that brings the University into disrepute Harassment Harassment is any unacceptable behaviour, such as unwelcome attention, intimidation, humiliation, bullying and ridicule that targets an individual or a group and makes the continuation of work, or study, for the individual or the group unpleasant or impossible. Harassment may be sexual, racial, and harassment targeting disability, social class, or religion (this list is not exhaustive). Any unnecessary, unwanted, or unwelcome advances, attention or propositions; comments; persistent demeaning or offensive jokes; unwanted comments about appearance; and degrading text messages on computer screens or elsewhere is considered as harassment. Harassment is taken seriously because it often occurs between people of unequal status and the harassed may face demands in exchange for favours, e.g. promises of better grades, or promotions. The University will ensure that all staff and students know the steps which will be taken to deal with such issues. Anyone who believes that they are the subject of either harassment or bullying, in any form, can take the following steps: 11

14 Report their concerns to an academic advisor, who will be a senior member of the student s Faculty, or a senior officer of the University. Formal action: If, despite the intervention of the Adviser, the harassment persists, or an incident is sufficiently serious, the individual should put a complaint in writing, and pursue the formal complaints procedure Student Disciplinary Procedures Any breach of the above Code of Conduct will be dealt with, as appropriate, under Student Disciplinary Procedures. This is a serious matter and any student subjected to it is advised to seek assistance from the concerned persons. A Student Disciplinary Committee shall be established by the Vice Chancellor and consist of three members (academic and administrative staff) and a representative of the Faculty concerned in order to investigate students violations. Student Disciplinary Procedure Stages (Stage 1): Preliminary investigation Any student, or member of staff, who has reason to believe that the Code of Conduct has been infringed, must immediately notify the Pro Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs (PVCSA). Acknowledgement will be given to the complainant and the student will be notified. An investigating person (social worker or academic) shall be designated to investigate the alleged breach of Code. Following the preliminary investigation, the PVCSA will decide whether to recommend to the Vice Chancellor that the student be suspended from the University. Where the conduct is likely to amount to criminal activity, the Vice Chancellor will normally ask the police to pursue the case (and suspend University procedures). If the Vice Chancellor is consulted at this stage, or the student has already had a written warning, then the case must proceed to Stage 3. The Vice Chancellor must determine whether suspension is necessary and notify the student as soon as possible. (Stage 2)Student Disciplinary Procedure Following Stage 1, a meeting will be held between the student (who may be accompanied by a friend) and the PVCSA, to consider the report of the First Stage and whether a formal hearing by the Student Disciplinary Committee is necessary. The meeting minutes will be taken and kept for reference. If the offence is admitted, the PVCSA will, depending on the severity of the offence, issue an oral or written warning that will be noted on the student s record, or recommend to the Vice Chancellor that the student be suspended or excluded. Reasons must be given to the student in writing. If the student denies the offence, the matter will be referred to the Student Disciplinary Committee where the offence is so serious that exclusion or suspension may be considered. Alternatively, a formal Hearing may be held at which all relevant persons are present, all relevant information is received (written and oral evidence), and witnesses will be present and questioned. (If the student does not attend, the assumption will be that the offence is denied and it will proceed directly to Stage 3). 12

15 After the Hearing If the allegation is judged proven, the PVCSA will determine the penalty, (a formal oral or written warning; a recommendation for suspension, or a recommendation for exclusion) after taking into account the student s disciplinary record. If the allegation is judged not proven, the student will be notified, no action will be taken and no record will be kept. (Stage 3)Student Disciplinary Procedure The student will receive notice, in writing, together with details of the alleged offence. He/she must be informed that they may bring evidence and/or call appropriate witnesses, who must also be formally notified. The student may be accompanied by a friend or student representative. If he/she wishes to be accompanied by a person from outside the University (e.g. a lawyer) then consent from the Chair of the Committee must be obtained. The Committee will receive a written statement of the allegation, the report of the preliminary investigation and a written statement from the student. The Committee will receive written and oral evidence in the presence of the student (and accompanying person). The student will then be invited to give, or present, written or oral evidence and call witnesses. After all the evidence has been heard, both parties (i.e. complainant and student) will withdraw and the Panel will arrive at a decision which must be notified in writing. If the allegation is judged proven (on the balance of probabilities) then the Committee will determine the penalty, taking into account the student s disciplinary record, and inform the student of the decision. Penalties available include: an oral or written warning concerning the student s future conduct; a recommendation to the Vice Chancellor that the student be suspended or excluded permanently; an order that the student makes good as appropriate (for example repair damage to property, replace funds, etc.). If the allegation is found to be unproven, no further action will be taken, and the student will be notified. Appeal to the Vice Chancellor After the decision has been notified, within five working days, a student may appeal in writing against the outcome of a Student Disciplinary Hearing. If the appeal letter casts doubt on the decision reached by the Student Disciplinary Hearing, then further consideration may take place. If the proposed penalty is anything other than permanent exclusion or expulsion, the Vice Chancellor will hear the appeal. If the proposed penalty is exclusion or expulsion then an Appeals Panel will be formed and chaired by the Vice Chancellor. The student (accompanied if wished), will be provided with a report of the Student Disciplinary Hearing and will attend the Hearing and address the Appeal Panel. Additional witnesses may be called who will be subject to cross-examination. They will be required to withdraw and the Panel will consider its decision. The final outcome will be advised to the student within five working days. 13

16 Note: The Vice Chancellor is empowered to suspend the student at any stage of the process, if it is in the best interest of the student or the University, pending the outcome of the procedure, for example if the offence occurs during a field trip or placement. Procedures may be suspended pending any police or criminal investigation, but this does not preclude the University from taking its own action. 4.3 Academic Programs See section 7 for the Master programme outlines Definition of Awards The Oman National Qualifications Framework defines the Master s level as: display[ing] mastery of a complex and specialised area of knowledge and skills, employing advanced skills to conduct research, or advanced technical and professional activity; accepting accountability for all related decisionmaking including use of supervision. At Sohar University, Units are delivered in the form of courses of study. Normally a Masters level course is a self-contained and coherent package of learning, and is worth 2 units at Masters (M) level. The Master in Education normally delivers courses that contribute 1.5 units 1. Normally, students must achieve at least 24 Masters-level units to be awarded the Master s degree. The Master in Education is achieved by the award of 16.5units. Please note that some courses will be conjoined, e.g. a research project may be equivalent to two or more courses. In terms of Sohar University s postgraduate programs the table below shows how Period of Study The minimum period of study for a current Masters student is four semesters, and the maximum is ten semesters Medium of Instruction The medium used for the majority of Sohar University programs is English. The medium of instruction for some of the Teacher Education, Arabic and Islamic programs is Arabic The Academic Year The Faculty academic year normally commences in September each year and is completed by the following July. Exact dates will vary slightly from year to year due to the timing of Ramadan. Each academic year consists of two semesters of study. The duration of each semester is normally 17 weeks, comprising 15 weeks of teaching and 2 weeks of final examinations. For students there is usually a three week break between the end of Semester One examinations and the first day of classes in Semester Two. Hence an academic year will consist of 34 weeks divided into two 17 1 Sohar University is working on proposals to standardise across masters degrees. 14

17 week semesters. In , Semester One will be from 14 th September 2014 to 8 th January 2015, with Semester Two from 15th February 2015 to 9th June Please note that Masters courses might be delivered outside the normal undergraduate delivery timings Study Period All current Sohar University Master Programmes are for part-time study. Class contact is normally 48 hours for 2 units. The class contact may take a number of forms, e.g. lectures, workshops, etc. Academic work outside of classroom time is very important: students are encouraged to use Free-labs, the LRC and provided study space to work individually, or collectively, on tutorial preparation, assignments, revision etc. Part time study is defined usually as up to half time study, with typically 2 two-unit courses per semester. These may be delivered outside of the normal working day, i.e. at evenings or week-ends Grading System The grading scale is standardised across all University courses. Hence it applies to awards at diploma, advanced diploma, degree and master levels. It also applies equally to grading for individual assignments and, is aggregated according to the weightings of assessments, to courses as a whole. A grading system based on a 0 to 4 scale is used as set out in the following table. Table 1: Grading System % Grade Descriptor Excellent Demonstrates imagination, originality or flair, based on proficiency in all the learning objectives; work is interesting or surprising or exciting or challenging or erudite. Very Good Demonstrates awareness and understanding of deeper and subtler aspects of the course, such as ability to identify and debate critical issues or problems, ability to solve non-routine problems, ability to adapt and apply ideas to new situations, and ability to invent and evaluate new ideas. Good Demonstrates, with some errors or omissions, awareness and understanding of deeper and subtler aspects of the course, such as ability to identify and debate critical issues or problems, ability to solve non-routine problems, ability to adapt and apply ideas to 15

18 % Grade Descriptor new situations, and ability to invent and evaluate new ideas; demonstrates sufficient quality of performance to be considered satisfactory or adequate or competent or capable in the course Pass work that is generally acceptable. Demonstrates ability to use and apply fundamental concepts and skills of the course, going beyond mere replication of content knowledge or skill Marginal Pass minimal level allowable for a small minority of the courses in a program. GPA at this level not acceptable for graduation. Many errors and minimum levels of ability to use and apply basic concepts and skills. Fail Falls short of satisfying the basic requirements for Pass. Work of a very poor standard, with little relevance. It fails to satisfy most of the basic requirements of the course. Fail Work containing little or nothing of merit. It fails to satisfy the basic requirements of the course Note: that percentage of marks is not reported. Only Grades (4.0, 3.75, 3.5, etc.) are reported in end of the semester reports and in official transcripts. For more detail on the grading system, please access the University website at Admission Regulations General Principles The admission of a student is based on the reasonable expectation that the student will be able to fulfil the objectives of the program and achieve the standard required for the award. Numbers of students admitted may be controlled by directives issued by the Ministry of Higher Education as well as by internal recruitment targets of the University. All entry qualifications must be authenticated, so students must provide proof of qualifications gained. Any student not complying with such a request or falsifying evidence is liable to exclusion from the University General Entry Requirements for Masters Programs The entry requirements may vary according to the academic program, and will be reviewed annually. For qualifying students, entry to the University will be based upon order of merit. 16

19 Admission to the University is open to all nationalities resident in Oman, and others wishing to come to Oman. Enrolment for foreign students will not be valid until all immigration procedures for staying in Oman as a student are finalized. The entry requirements for the current masters programs offered at Sohar University are: MBA Normally, entrants to Sohar University MBA program must: Hold a bachelor degree (or equivalent) in a business field from Sohar University or another reputable university with: o GPA of at least 2.4 out of 4.00 for candidates with 2 to 4 years of relevant professional experience or o 2.25 out of 4.00 for candidates having more than 4 years of professional experience A candidate with a non-business bachelor degree will be required to attend an interview with the relevant Admission Committee and may be required to take other courses in advance of entry Satisfy the English proficiency requirements: a first degree delivered in English; or, an IELTS score of 6+, or TOEFL score of 500 or above in paper-based exam, or score of 173 or above in the computer-based exam, or 61 in internet-based exam (not more than 2 years old); If the first degree was delivered in English, the applicant will be required to sit for and pass the MBA English Assessment Test. Pass an interview with the relevant Coordinator or Dean; Two or more years of work experience at an appropriate level; Admission to MBA program is subject to the approval of the MoHE, Sultanate of Oman Master in Education Normally, entrants to Sohar University masters programs must: Hold a bachelor degree (or equivalent) in education or social science field from Sohar University or another reputable university with: o GPA of at least 2.00 out of 4.00 and o at least five years of relevant professional experience, and o Pass an interview with the Dean or Masters Co-ordinator M.Sc. (Computer Science) Program GPA required in Bachelor degree in Computing (or equivalent)of at least 2.5 out of 4 scale Satisfy the English proficiency requirements: a first degree delivered in English; or, an IELTS score of 6+, or TOEFL score of 500 or above in paper-based exam, or score of 173 or above in the computer-based exam, or 61 in internet-based exam (not more than 2 years old); 17

20 A student with Bachelor degree in mathematics, physics, electronics, and communication may be considered for the admission with additional courses. 4.5 Application Procedure A completed application along with registration fee of OR 100, official transcripts, and TOEFL/IELTS scores should be submitted to the relevant faculty office at least three months before the intended start of the program. Applicants can also submit any documentary evidence of leadership, extracurricular or professional activities, and work experience certificates. Each candidate must attend a personal interview with the Program Admission Committee, Dean or Masters Co-ordinator to evaluate their suitability to enter the program. The candidate will be advised on the outcome of their application within seven days of the application deadline. Once the decision for admission has been made, the relevant Program Admission Committee will transfer the file of the candidate to the Registration Department, which will register the successful applicant as a Sohar University student, subject to payment of appropriate tuition fees and MoHE approval. Following registration, the relevant faculty/ program Office will advise the student of course selection Offer of admission can be provisional or final Provisionally admitted candidates to the program should complete either, or both, of the following to secure final admission: Pass certain pre-requisites/foundation Courses or English Courses as required by the Admissions Committee; Obtain stipulated level of GPA in the first semester Registration All new and continuing students of the University must register at the beginning of each semester. Instructions on how to register will normally be available for new students at the time they are made an offer of a place at the University, and to continuing students with their examination results. Students who do not register at the beginning of the semester will no longer be considered students of the University, and will not be able to use any of the University facilities. See the Academic Calendar for important registration dates: Registration is not completed until all fees due have been paid or other arrangements made to the satisfaction of the University Additional Courses Additional Courses, may be offered for non-subject specific majors and others, depending on the necessity to secure entry to the program, and also to fulfil the knowledge level requirements of the provisionally admitted candidate, as the case may be. These courses do not count towards the graduate GPA of the program. A maximum of up to four units can be taken by a candidate as recommended by the Admissions Committee/ Tutor. 18