Master of Science and Doctorate in Advanced Epidemiology (MADE-JM) Education and Examination Regulations

Transcription

1 Master of Science and Doctorate in Advanced Epidemiology (MADE-JM) Education and Examination Regulations Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore Universität Bern Academic year All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, without the prior permission of the publisher.

2 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Content Section 1 General... 3 Article 1 Applicability... 3 Article 2 Definitions and authorizations in these regulations... 3 Article 3 Aim of the programme... 4 Article 4 Intended learning outcomes... 4 Article 5 Programme execution... 5 Article 6 Student workload... 5 Article 7 Language... 5 Overall regulations versus local regulations... 5 Article 8 Framework and local regulations... 5 Article 9 Appeals... 6 Article 10 Expulsion from the programme... 6 Admission to the programme... 6 Article 11 Admission requirements... 6 Article 12 Joint Selection Committee... 6 Article 13 Admission procedure... 6 Article 14 Common selection criteria... 7 Article 15 Written notification of admission... 7 Article 16 Appeal to rejection... 7 Article 17 Students rights and responsibilities... 7 Section 4 Structure of the programme... 7 Article 18 Programme set-up... 7 Article 19 ECTS credits distribution... 8 Article 20 Exemptions... 8 Article 21 Extraneous activities... 8 Article 22 Masters thesis... 8 Article 23 Degree requirements... 9 Article 24 Name of the Joint Degree... 9 Section 5 Examinations... 9 Article 25 Examinations... 9 Article 26 Joint Examinations Committee... 9 Article 27 Terms of validity Article 28 Provisions for physically or sensorial handicapped students Section 6 Counselling and Advise Article 29 Counselling Section 7 Finances Article 30 Tuition fee Article 31 Payment of the tuition fee Article 32 In case of drop out Article 33 Fee waiver Section 8 Final and implementation stipulations Article 34 Amendments Article 35 Announcement regulations and amendments therein Article 36 Entry into force Annex 1. Education and Examination Regulation Annex 2. LMU Local Regulations for MADE Students Annex 3. UCSC rules Annex 4. Bern Local Regulations Annex 5. Course descriptions, elective courses and research topics Annex 6. ECTS grading tables

3 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Section 1 General Article 1 Applicability These regulations are applicable to the curriculum, education and examinations of the Master of Science in Advanced Epidemiology in Clinical and Genetic Research (MADE-JM), offered by Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam (Erasmus MC), the Netherlands, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), Germany, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Italy and Universität Bern, Switzerland. Article 2 Definitions and authorizations in these regulations 1. Associated Partner Organisation affiliated with the MADE-JM Consortium Board. An associated partner may offer a research thesis topic to MADE-JM students. 2. Consortium Board The MADE-JM Consortium Board consists of the four local education and science directors of MADE-JM. The consortium board makes formal decisions on the Masters programme and management. 3. Confidential Counsellor An appointed independent counsellor, available for students who are unable to settle complaints with their supervisor, the Joint Examination Committee or other members of the MADE-JM staff. 4. ECTS European Credits Transfer System, the system by which all participating European countries record study load. ECTS credits are a numerical value allocated to course units to describe the study load. One ECTS represents hours of study. 5. Examination A written or oral test of a study unit. 6. Joint Examination Committee (JSC) The Joint Examination Committee of all partner universities, responsible for the final decision on students results and their graduation, contains one staff member of each university. Local members of the Joint Examination Committee are responsible for the student s grading lists at that university. 7. Joint Masters Degree The Masters degree the student receives after completing the MADE-JM programme completely. 8. Joint Selection Committee Selection Committee, which manages the selection and admission procedures, consisting of one member per partner university. 9. Local education and science director Director responsible for the content of the MADE-JM programme. Per partner university, one local education and science director is involved. 10. Partner university One of the universities participating in the MADE-JM programme, offering courses, elective courses and/or research programmes to the students of MADE-JM. 11. Portfolio File in which the student during the programme is expected to record data on behalf of the programme. 3

4 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations 12. Programme coordinator The programme coordinator is entrusted with the organisation and execution of the programme as stipulated in the education and examination regulations. Each partner university has one programme coordinator. 13. Sufficient result A result of an examination that is sufficient to pass the examination. The corresponding grade or assessment is depending on the university that offers the exam. 14. Education and examination regulations (EER) Regulations stated in this document, considering teaching and examinations in MADE-JM. 15. Supervisor The scientific researcher who supervises the student s research project and its rendering into the M.Sc. thesis. When the student is starting with the research thesis, he/she will be allocated a supervisor by the Programme coordinator. Article 3 Aim of the programme The general aim of MADE-JM is that medical doctors and other health care professionals can deepen their knowledge of both clinical and genetic epidemiology, improve their scientific medical skills and develop themselves personally, which will eventually enable them to shape the future of medical research in a rapidly changing clinical and genetic environment. Article 4 Intended learning outcomes The intended learning outcomes of the Master programme are derived from requirements set by the scientific discipline, the international scientific practice and the practice in the epidemiological field. MADE-JM uses the following criteria (intended learning outcomes) to define a successful student: 1. Knowledge and understanding After completion of the Masters programme, the student will be able to: a. Use and understand when to use methods for the frequencies of disease and measures of effect. b. Critically discuss study design and methodological issues in an epidemiological and clinical context. The student understands the strengths and weaknesses of the different study methods and the accompanying study designs and analyses methods. c. Read, interpret and use statistical terms and techniques, such as the different distributions, confidence intervals, and multivariate (regression) analysis. d. Discuss the role of genes in disease, focusing particularly on familial and hereditary factors in the origin and expression of human disease. The student has knowledge about statistical approaches as well as about molecular techniques used in genetic epidemiologic research. Furthermore, they can interpret and discuss diagnostic, prognostic, preventive and therapeutic studies that follow directly from quantitative study designs. e. Critically appraise the level of evidence of scientific literature in the field of clinical and genetic epidemiology. The student can analyse, assess and deal with complex phenomena, issues and situations, even when limited information is available. 2. Applying knowledge and understanding After completion of the Masters programme, the student will be able to: a. Formulate a genetic and/or clinical problem and translate it into a scientific question. 4

5 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations b. Solve genetic and clinical epidemiological problems in new or unfamiliar environments within a multidisciplinary context. c. Perform an extensive study of the literature concerning the clinical, genetic or clinical and genetic research subject. d. Integrate knowledge and handle complexity, and formulate judgements with incomplete data. e. Critically, independently and creatively perform clinical and genetic epidemiology research, collect and analyse data and draw conclusions within specified time limits. This culminates in a Masters thesis including a description of the objective(s) of the investigation, a summary of the literature, materials used, methods applied, results obtained, discussion and the conclusion of the research. The Masters thesis qualifies to be published in an international peer-reviewed journal. 3. Making judgements After completion of the Masters programme, the student will be able to: a. Make assessments in advanced epidemiology, taking into account relevant scientific, social and ethical aspects. The student has an awareness of ethical aspects of research and development work, its role in society and human responsibility for its application. 4. Communication After completion of the Masters programme, the student will be able to: a. Communicate their conclusions and the underpinning knowledge and rationale to peers and lay people. b. Integrate and collaborate with others within and outside their multidisciplinary research group. c. Write an article, which qualifies to be published in an international peer-reviewed journal. 5. Learning skills After completion of the Masters programme, the student will be able to: a. Participate in research and development work or work independently in other advanced, multidisciplinary contexts. b. Identify their need of further knowledge and take responsibility for developing their own learning, as shown by the choice of electives. Article 5 Programme execution The programme is taught full-time. Article 6 Student workload The programme has a minimal workload of 60 ECTS credits. The maximal workload is 64 ECTS credits. Article 7 Language The language of instruction teaching and examination is English. Section Overall regulations versus local regulations Article 8 Framework and local regulations 1. This document is written as a general framework for the MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations. It deals only with the common aspects of the MADE-JM programme. 5

6 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations 2. This document is only valid for the MADE-JM students at the four MADE-JM universities. It only applies to the courses, elective courses and research training that are a part of the MADE-JM curriculum. 3. All matters not discussed in this document, are dealt with in the local education and examination regulations of the four MADE-JM institutes (Annex 1 to 4). 4. This document has precedence over the local regulations. Article 9 Appeals 1. Students who wish to appeal against decisions regarding grades, ECTS credits or other procedures regarding education and examination can do so according to the local regulations of the university, where the concerned course or Masters thesis was taken. Regulations for appeals per university are stated in the local regulations, Annex 1 to Students cannot appeal to decisions made by one university with the aid of another university s regulations. 3. It is not possible to appeal twice using a different set of local regulations. 4. Students who disagree with decisions taken by the MADE-JM Consortium Board or the MADE-JM Joint Examination Committee have the possibility to ask the Confidential Counsellor to mediate. 5. Students can appeal against decisions of the Joint Selection Committee, see article 16. Article 10 Expulsion from the programme If a student is expelled from one of the partner universities, they are also expelled from the MADE-JM programme and do not have the possibility to continue the programme at another university. Admission to the programme Article 11 Admission requirements Candidates with a Masters degree in Medicine, Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Nutrition, Health Sciences and allied sciences are eligible to apply for MADE-JM. Article 12 Joint Selection Committee 1. The Joint Selection Committee (JSC) assesses and decides whether an applicant is admitted to the programme. 2. The JSC decides on the assignment of students to the universities. It takes the student s wishes in consideration, but it may not be able to place each student at the desired university or research group. Article 13 Admission procedure The selection and admission procedure is divided into two stages. In the first stage, two members of the JSC review every application. At this stage the JSC members preselect applicants who have sufficient affinity with clinical and genetic epidemiology (e.g. through relevant courses such as basic epidemiology, biostatistics) during their previous Masters education, previous jobs or internships, and who are, in principle, qualified for admission to the MADE-JM programme. In the second round, the preselected applications are reviewed by the full JSC. At this stage, the final decision on the overall ranking is made based on the common selection criteria detailed below. A high rank is given to students with a suitable educational background, extensive research 6

7 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations experience, a number of scientific publications authored and a strong motivation for entering the MADE-JM programme. Study places go to the applicants in order of ranking. Article 14 Common selection criteria In order to be eligible for the MADE-JM Masters programme, students should meet each of the following criteria (with relative weighting): - What is the quality of the university career? (relative weighting 50%) This includes - Duration, - Number and quality of degrees obtained, - Academic credentials, - Academic performance (especially the grade earned for the Masters thesis), - Previous research and work experience. - What is the motivation of the student (relative weighting 30%)? This includes - The quality of the motivation letter, - What is the research oriented motivation of the student? - The quality of the reference letters. - What is the relevance of previous studies to the objectives of the MADE-JM programme (relative weighting 20%). Article 15 Written notification of admission Each applicant will receive a written notification stating acceptance or rejection to the MADE-JM programme. Article 16 Appeal to rejection Students can appeal against rejection, but appeals must be made within four weeks after the decision has been sent and must be addressed to the JSC. Ar l 17 ud s r gh s a d r sp s b l s Each host university will provide a student card or ID to the MADE-JM student. The students rights and responsibilities are the same as those valid for any other student at the institution where the student is studying at the specific moment. The student must comply with the requirements of the institution involved as regards documentation for registration procedures and documentation for visa purposes. Section 4 Structure of the programme Article 18 Programme set-up The curriculum is divided in three periods. The first and second period (together the first semester) form the theoretical phase. In the theoretical phase, a modular format is used. The third period is the second semester; it consists of the research training. The first period (August mid-october) consists of courses at Erasmus MC. The second period (mid-october February) consists of courses at Erasmus MC or Ludwig-Maximilians- Universität. 7

8 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations The third period of the curriculum is the research period (February end of July), which is either at Erasmus MC, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore or Universität Bern. Students are not allowed to spend the second and third period at the same university. Study periods attended at different universities are mutually recognized within the Consortium. The Curriculum of the whole MADE-JM programme, including course descriptions and research topics is included in Annex 5. Article 19 ECTS credits distribution The theoretical phase of the curriculum is 34 ECTS credits. Writing a Masters thesis will earn the student 25 ECTS credits. Students add elective courses to their programme, with a minimum of 1 credit and a maximum of 5 ECTS credits per student. The minimum amount of ECTS credits earned is therefore =60 credits. The student needs a minimum of 60 credits to receive the MADE-JM degree. Article 20 Exemptions At the request of a student, the Joint Examination Committee can grant exemption from part or parts of the MADE-JM programme on the grounds of knowledge or skills gained within or outside higher education. Article 21 Extraneous activities Courses and electives can only be followed within the partner universities, as described in the curriculum. Article 22 Mas rs h s s 1. During the Erasmus Summer Programme, all partner universities present the thesis topics that are available to the MADE-JM students. Students can indicate preferences for certain research topics and the Joint Selection Committee allocates students to the research projects. The student will be assigned a supervisor. The moment of assignment varies, but this will be before start of the research project. 2. In case of a research question posted by one of the Associated Partners, the Joint Selection Committee has to assign a supervisor to the subject. The university will be responsible for the guidance and supervision of the students working on the research topic, with possible cooperation of the Associated Partner. 3. The format of the Master of Science thesis (M.Sc. thesis) is that of a scientific article that can be submitted to a peer reviewed international journal. The M.Sc. thesis should demonstrate that the student is capable of collecting data and presenting results and has sufficient expertise to write a scientific article. The aim is to submit the article for publication. Please note that a draft paper with input from co-authors does not represent the work of the student. The thesis will be evaluated without the input of the co-authors. 4. The student presents and defends the thesis to the research group in the department where the research was done, according to the rules of the university where the M.Sc. thesis has been written (see local regulations, Annex 1 to 4). 5. The M.Sc. thesis is graded by the student s supervisor and a second examiner from another MADE-JM university. The second examiner uses the grading system of the host university to grade the thesis. If the grade differs by more than one grade point or if the supervisor or second examiner gives a fail grade, they have to discuss the grading and come to an agreement. 6. A fail grade for the Masters thesis cannot be compensated by a publication of the same paper. The successful publication of a Masters thesis in a peer-reviewed journal does not substitute for a pass grade. 8

9 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Article 23 Degree requirements Students must complete the full programme in order to earn the Master of Science in Advanced Epidemiology degree. All parts of the programme must have been concluded and the required number of ECTS (depending on the universities where the courses were followed) must be complete before the degree can be awarded. These parts are: Pass grades for all examinations of compulsory courses in the first and second period of the curriculum, or attended/pass if grades are not assigned. The successful student has earned 34 ECTS credits with compulsory courses. Pass grades for examinations of elective courses in the third period of the curriculum, or attended/pass if grades are not assigned. The successful student has earned a minimum of 1 ECTS credit with elective courses. Satisfactory participation in and attendance at research meetings and seminars in the research department during the research phase, to be demonstrated from signatures in the portfolio. Successful completion of the research phase as demonstrated by a pass grade for the Masters thesis and successful defence of a Master thesis and its presentation in the research department. Before the degree can be awarded all tuition fees must be paid. Article 24 Name of the Joint Degree 1. The MADE-JM Joint Degree is called: Master of Science in Advanced Epidemiology in Clinical and Genetic Research. 2. In Italy the local title is Master in Epidemiologia Avanzata. The other countries do not have translations of the degree title. Section 5 Examinations Article 25 Examinations Examinations and examination results are organised according to the local regulations of the concerned university (Annex 1 to 4). Article 26 Joint Examinations Committee 1. The Joint Examination Committee is responsible for the granting of exemptions to individual students from part of the programme on the grounds of knowledge or skills gained within or outside higher education. 2. The MADE-JM Joint Examination Committee consists of one representative from each partner university. The local member of the Joint Examination Committee is responsible for the local grades according to local regulations and laws. Each university has calculated grading tables with percentage scores to clarify the local grading culture and to enable comparisons between grades obtained at different universities. Grading tables are shown in Annex The Joint Examination Committee collects local grades and local decisions regarding students results. The committee is responsible for checking that a student has met all requirements. The committee decides if a student can be awarded the MADE-JM degree. 9

10 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Article 27 Terms of validity 1. MADE-JM courses and elective courses completed with sufficient or compensable results remain valid for five years. This also applies to the Masters thesis. 2. The period of validity mentioned in section 1 also applies to exemptions granted, calculated from the time that the Joint Examination Board gave its consent. 3. At the request of the student, the Joint Examination Board can in exceptional cases extend the period of validity of an examination subject completed with a sufficient or compensable result for a maximum of one year. Article 28 Provisions for physically or sensorial handicapped students Physically or sensorial handicapped students are offered the opportunity to take the examinations in a manner adapted as far as possible to their individual handicap. A request for granting special provisions should be submitted by the student to the Joint Examination Committee. However, these provisions may not influence the quality or level of difficulty of an examination. Local coordinators are responsible for providing assistance via specialised helpdesks or mentors, who can assist students or scholars with special needs. Section 6 Counselling and Advise Article 29 Counselling 1. When the student is starting with the Masters thesis, they will be allocated a personal supervisor. This supervisor will closely monitor the individual student s progress and their educational needs. All supervisors will be professors in the student s chosen research department and belong to the MADE-JM faculty. Supervisors will support and supervise a small group of Masters students (max 5). 2. At least once every two weeks the supervisor will discuss progress with the student. The meeting will be scheduled in consultation between student and supervisor. In case of a conflict between student and supervisor, a Confidential Counsellor will try to resolve the conflict by hearing both student and supervisor. 3. The programme coordinator and the local international offices also provide support for the students. 4. An appointed independent MADE-JM confidential counsellor is available for students who are unable to settle complaints with their supervisor, the Joint Examination Committee or other members of the MADE-JM staff. He or she is not a member of the governing bodies of the consortium. Section 7 Finances Article 30 Tuition fee Tuition fee for MADE-JM is set at per year. Article 31 Payment of the tuition fee Students are required to pay the tuition in two instalments to the Consortium Coordinator, Erasmus MC. The first instalment is due July 1 st ; the second instalment is due January 1 st. Article 32 In case of drop out 10

11 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations If students, voluntary or involuntary, drop out of the MADE-JM programme before January 1 st, the tuition fee is set at for the whole year. If they drop out after February 1 st, they are obliged to pay the full tuition fee. Students are required to notify the local programme coordinator of their discontinuation of the programme. Article 33 Fee waiver After payment of the MADE-JM tuition fee to the Consortium Coordinator, the student has a fee waiver to the tuition fees at any partner site. Section 8 Final and implementation stipulations Article 34 Amendments 1. Amendments to this regulation are laid down by the Consortium Board by separate decision. 2. No amendments will be made that are applicable to the current academic year, unless the interests of the students are, within reason, not prejudiced thereby. Article 35 Announcement regulations and amendments therein The programme coordinator in question is responsible for an appropriate announcement of these regulations and the amendments. In addition, the regulations are available online via the MADE-JM website. Article 36 Entry into force The Education and Examination Regulations enter into force on August 1st,

12 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 Annex 1. Education and Examination Regulation Master of Science and Doctorate in Advanced Epidemiology NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, without the prior permission of the publisher. Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

13 Content Section 1 General 1.1 Applicability of these regulations 1.2 Definitions in these regulations Section 2 Scientific integrity and general rules of order 2.1 Scientific integrity 2.2 Rule of order concerning access to EUR-buildings and -campuses Section 3 Curriculum MADE-JM modules of Erasmus MC Section 4 Examinations and period of validity 4.1 Taking examinations 4.2 Oral examinations 4.3 Registering for examinations 4.4 Resits 4.5 Assessment period 4.6 Notification of examination result 4.7 Inspection and follow-up interview 4.8 Appeals Section 5 Denial of access to teaching and examinations Section 6 Study counseling and advice 6.1 Study progress 6.2 Study counseling 6.3 Study advice Section 7 Final and implementation provisions 7.1 Appeals to decisions on the grounds of these Education and Examination Regulations 7.1 Amendments to the EER 7.2 Announcement of the EER and amendments therein 7.3 Entry into force Rules and Regulations for the Examinations Section 1 Section 2 Section 3 Section 4 Section 5 Section 6 Section 7 Section 8 Section 9 Section 10 Section 11 Section 12 Relation Erasmus MC Examination Board and joint MADE-JM Examination Board Definition Absence Rules of order around examinations Conduct Fraud and sanctions Determining the grade Hardship clause and standards Limiting circumstances during the study Provisions for physically or sensorial handicapped students Amendments to the Rules and Regulations for the Examinations Entry into force

14 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 Section 1 General 1.1 Applicability of the regulations These regulations are applicable to the curriculum and examinations of the Master of Science and Doctorate in Advanced Epidemiology (MADE-JM) program offered by the MADE-JM consortium, consisting of the Erasmus University Medical Center (Erasmus MC), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore and Universität Bern. Joint education and examination regulations have been established for this program. This annex pertains to the curriculum offered and the examinations taken in Erasmus MC. In the case of any discrepancies between the general and these additional, local regulations, the general provisions will prevail. The Joint Examination Board will decide on all situations for which the general and the additional provisions do not provide. 1.2 Definitions and authorizations in these regulations In these regulations, words shall have the following meanings: 1 Decision Decision of the Examination Board or examiner regarding an appeal or request of a student on behalf op the examination regulations. 2 Dispute Settlement Board for non-initial programs (GNIO) The non-initial programs examination appeals board of Erasmus University Rotterdam. 3 Joint Examination Board The board composed of representatives from the examination boards of all universities in the MADE-JM consortium. A representative of the Erasmus MC Examination Board sits on the MADE-JM Joint Examination Board. 4 Examination Board The board as referred to in Article 7.12 first paragraph of the Law, appointed by the Dean. 5 Examiner A person as referred to in Article 7.12, third paragraph of the Law, who is entrusted with assessing an examination part. 6 Education and Examination Regulations (in short: EER) The regulations as referred to in Article 7.13 of the Law. 7 Program Director The Program Director is entrusted, under the responsibility of the Dean, with the organization and execution of the program as stipulated in the Education and Examination regulations. 8 Sufficient result A mathematically rounded off grade of minimal 5.5 (five and a half) or a 'satisfactory' or 'good' assessment. For a number of courses attended/passed will suffice. 9 The Law Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

15 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 The Dutch Higher Education and Research Act (Wet op het Hoger onderwijs en Wetenschappelijk onderzoek - WHW), further referred to as: the Law. Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

16 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 Section 2 Scientific integrity and general rules of order 2.1 Scientific integrity The Erasmus MC Guideline on scientific misconduct and the Netherlands Code of Conduct for Scientific Practice issued by the joint universities (VSNU) are applicable to the students of the program. 2.2 Rule of order concerning access to EUR-buildings and campuses Without prejudice to the rules in force, as established by the Board of Directors of Erasmus MC, the EUR rules of order have also been declared applicable mutatis mutandis by the Dean with respect to the grounds and buildings of Erasmus MC and consequently also apply to the EUR-enrolled students who take a program at NIHES, Erasmus MC. The text of this regulation can be found on the Erasmus MC website > education Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

17 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 Section 3 Curriculum MADE-JM module of Erasmus MC Courses ECTS credits Erasmus Summer programme module Topics in Meta-Analysis (ESP15) 0.7 Genome Wide Association Analysis (ESP29) 1.4 Principles of Genetic Epidemiology (ESP43) 0.7 Genomics in Molecular Medicine (ESP57) 1.4 Master class: Advances in Genomics Research (ESP63) 0,4 Study Design (CC01) 4.3 Classical Methods for Data-analysis (CC02) 5.7 First period courses nd period Erasmus MC Clinical Epidemiology (CE02) or Genetic-epidemiologic Research Methods (GE02) 5.7 Advances in Population-based Studies of Complex Genetic Disorders (GE03) 1.4 Genetic Linkage Analysis: Model Free Analysis (GE05) 1.4 SNPs and Human Diseases (GE08) 1.4 Modern Statistical Methods (EP03) 4.3 Courses for the Quantitative Researcher (EP17) 1.4 Advanced Clinical and Genetic Epidemiology (CGE01) 4,4 Second period courses at EMC 20 Elective courses: Advanced short courses 1.0 Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

18 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 Section 4 Examinations and period of validity 4.1 Taking examinations 1. Examinations can be taken halfway or at the end of the course unit. The study guide and the NIHES website list the courses for which examinations are taken. An attendance requirement is imposed for all courses. An attendance requirement only is imposed for a number of courses for which no interim examinations are taken. Students may be absent to a maximum of 20%, but only after motivated announcement was submitted to one of the NIHES program officers before the start of the course day and which was later accepted. 2. The form of the examination is specified in the study guide and on the NIHES website. At the beginning of a course module the lecturer in question is expected to provide detailed information on test requirements and the form of the examination. 3. Students are required to take examinations at the first opportunity offered. 4. Students should take examinations in the order laid down in the study guide. Derogations can be made in consultation with the MADE-JM Program Director. 4.2 Oral examinations 1. An oral examination is taken in public, unless the student has objected to this. 2. Immediately after an oral examination is taken, the examiner announces the result and passes the result to the Program Director. 4.3 Registering for examinations The students are automatically registered for the first round of the examinations and are expected to cancel registration themselves if they cannot attend. Students who fail the examination must check the resit date, if any, themselves and register again themselves. The date is announced via NIHES intranet. 4.4 Re-sits 1. The Examination Board will allow students to re-sit each examination to a maximum of three times. After the third attempt the student himself/herself is expected to request an additional re-sit from the Examination Board. 2. Examinations for which a pass was obtained cannot be taken again. In case of re-sit(s) for examinations for which the result was insufficient the highest grade assigned is the valid result. Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

19 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex Assessment period The examiner announces the rating of a written examination within 22 working days after the day on which the examination was taken. Should this period be exceeded, the examiner will inform the Examination Board and the students involved before the end of this period. The Examination Board is entitled to prolong this period in consultation with the examiner if in the view of the Examination Board there are reasons to amend the assessment procedure. 4.6 Notification of examination result Each student will be notified in writing about his/her examination result. 4.7 Inspection and follow-up interview 1. During 22 working days after the announcement of the results of the examination, the person who has taken the examination may peruse the assessed work and be informed of the criteria for assessment, as well as be given an explanation of the assessment. Inspection will take place under supervision of the examiner 2. The examiner, either at the request of the person in question or at his or her own initiative, will organize a follow-up interview concerning a written or oral examination. 3. During the inspection session the student may lodge a motivated, oral appeal against the assessment. This results in a re-assessment by the examiner. 4. A student who objects to the re-assessment may lodge a written appeal with the examiner. The examiner will inform the student in writing whether he or she considers the objection valid and whether revision of the assessment follows. If a student continues to disagree with the assessment, also after the follow-up interview with the examiner, the student may lodge a written appeal to the Examination Board. Copies of the correspondence with the examiner should be attached to the appeal. This appeal should be lodged within 6 weeks after inspection of the work. 5. The Examination Board may peruse the assessed work. Only with permission of a student the Examination Board can grant third parties the right to peruse a student s assessed work. 6. The definitive result will be announced no later than 12 weeks after the examination. The Examination Board may extend this period in consultation with the examiner if in the opinion of the Examination Board there are reasons to revise the assessment (see also Rules and Guidelines for the Examinations). 4.8 Appeals Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

20 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 By virtue of article 7.61 of the Dutch Higher Education and Research Act, appeals against decisions of the Examination Board of examiner may be lodged with the Dispute Settlement Board for non-initial programs (GNIO). The student should lodge an appeal with the GNIO within 6 weeks. Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

21 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 Section 5 Denial of access to teaching and examinations The following procedures are applicable in case of observed shortcomings in the field of professional conduct: 1 The first notification If at any moment during the program a student in the opinion of a lecturer/examiner has demonstrated insufficient command of the general skills required in patient contact or in conducting research, as described in the Erasmus MC Guideline on scientific misconduct and the Netherlands Code of Conduct for Scientific Practice issued by the joint universities (VSNU), the lecturer/examiner in question will immediately submit a written, motivated notification to the Examination Board (see Section 2.1) 2 The file The Examination Board takes due note of the notification referred to in the first paragraph and opens a confidential file regarding this notification, without prejudice to the provision in paragraph 11 of this section. 3 The reply of the student The Examination Board will inform the student in question, to whom the notification as referred to in the first paragraph of this article refers, as soon as possible in writing and gives the student the opportunity to present in writing or orally his or her vision on the matter referred to in the notification. The written vision of the student is added by the Examination Board to the file; the Examination Board will make a report of an orally provided vision, which report is presented to the student and supplemented with his or her comments, if any is also added by the Examination Board to the file. 4 Possible action by the Examination Board On account of this first notification the Examination Board may take action, dependent on the severity of the shortcomings or misconduct described in this notification and the student s reply. If required the Examination Board may seek the advice of third parties in this matter (see also the provisions in paragraph 10 and paragraph 11). 5 A new notification If the Examination Board at any moment during the program, and when said moment is later than that of the notification referred to in the first paragraph, receives with regard to the same student again a notification as referred to in the first paragraph of this article from one or more lecturer(s)/examiner(s), the procedure as laid down in paragraphs 1 through 3 of this article is repeated. If the nature of what is mentioned in the new notification in the opinion of the Examination Board should be reason for this, the Examination Board will seek the advice of a confidential counselor regarding the question whether the student may continue with the program and if so, under what conditions. Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

22 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 6 Appointing the confidential counselor In the event of a case as referred to in paragraph 5, second sentence of this section, the Examination Board requests the Program Director to appoint an objective confidential counselor, whether or not from Erasmus MC. 7 The procedure to be followed by the confidential counselor Before submitting an advice to the Examination Board the confidential counselor hears the student and the lecturer(s)/examiner(s) involved, preferably in one and another s presence. In the session(s) the confidential counselor will examine if, and if so in what manner the student could compensate for the observed shortcomings. This may involve a recommendation to seek the help of professional counselors or counseling organizations. The confidential counselor will make a report of the session(s) and send copies of the report to the parties involved, to which both parties can comment. The report and the comments of the parties, if any, will be attached to the advice to be submitted by the confidential counselor to the Examination Board. As soon as possible after having heard both parties the confidential counselor will submit a motivated report to the Examination Board. This advice, with attached documents, will be added by the Examination Board to the file as referred to in paragraph 2 of this section. 8 The decision of the Examination Board The Examination Board will within three weeks after receipt of the advice by the confidential counselor decide on the progress of the program of the student in question, a decision preponderantly based on the advice of the confidential counselor. This decision may imply, among other things, that the student may continue with the program only under conditions to be put by the Examination Board, or in the extreme case that the student must discontinue the program. The decision of the Examination Board will be passed motivated and in writing to the student. 9 The shortened procedure at repeat offending If the procedure as described in paragraphs 1 through 3 and paragraphs 5 through 8 of this section on the occasion of a first notification as referred to in paragraph 1, in connection with a new notification as referred to in the paragraph 5, has been followed already and if the Examination Board again receives a notification from one or more lecturer(s)/examiner(s) regarding comparable shortcomings or conduct of the student in question, the Examination Board may decide not to follow the procedure laid down in paragraphs 5 through 8, but to make a decision without the advice of a second confidential counselor. 10 Seeking advice from a confidential counselor as early as the first notification The Examination Board may also decide, if in the view of Examination Board the severity of this first notification should be sufficient reason, to seek advice from a confidential counselor after the first notification. Before proceeding to this action, however, the student and the lecturer/examiner are heard. The Examination Board will make a report of the interview(s) of which copies will be sent to both parties Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

23 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 and to which both parties may comment. The report and the comments of the parties, if any, will be added by the Examination Board to the file as referred to in paragraph 2 of this section. 11 Interim preliminary denial of continuing the program In case of a notification as referred to in paragraph 1 or paragraph 5 of this section, the Examination Board may as a disciplinary action deny the student to continue the program for the time being and for a period to be determined by the Examination Board, if in the view of Examination Board the severity of this first notification should be sufficient reason for this. If necessary, in this case a disciplinary action can be taken after an oral notification. After taking such an action the Examination Board will immediately hear the student and the lecturer/examiner involved. 12 Appeal against a decision by the Examination Board A student who objects to a decision of the Examination Board may lodge an appeal with the Dispute Settlement Board for non-initial programs (GNIO) of Erasmus University Rotterdam. The appeal has to be lodged within four weeks from the posting date of that decision. Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

24 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 Section 6 Study counseling and advice 6.1 Study progress The Program Director is responsible for recording the study results in such a way that each student at least once per trimester can be given an overview of the results that he/she has obtained in relation to the program s study- and exam program. 6.2 Study counseling The Program Director is responsible for the study counseling of students enrolled for the program, partly in order to assist their orientation towards possible study paths within and outside the program. 6.3 Study advice The Program Director is responsible for a study advice to the students if study results are insufficient. A student may eventually become stuck in the program by insufficient study results, preventing the awarding of a diploma. Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

25 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 Section 7 Final and implementation provisions 7.1 Appeals against decisions on the grounds of these Education and Examination Regulations An individual student who objects to decisions made on the grounds of this EER may lodge an appeal with the Program Director, unless the relevant article states that the appeal should be lodged with the Examination Board. 7.2 Amendments to the EER A The Dean will adopt amendments to these regulations through a separate decree. B No amendments will be made that are applicable to the current academic year, unless the interests of the students are, in reason, not thereby prejudiced. C Moreover, amendments must not influence, to the detriment of the students: a passing an examination. b any other decision with respect to a student taken by the Examination Board by virtue of these regulations. D In exceptional circumstances, in the discretion of the Examination Board and if necessary after consulting the study counselor, the Examination Board may derogate from the regulations in favor of the student. 7.3 Hardship clause In individual circumstances in which application of one or more provisions from these education and examination regulations leads to clearly unreasonable and/or unfair situations concerning a student, the Examination Board may at its own initiative or instigated by a written, reasoned request from a student derogate from the provision(s) in favor of the student. 7.4 Announcement EER and amendments therein The Program Director is responsible for an appropriate announcement of these regulations, of the Rules and Guidelines for the Examinations established by the Examination Board, and of amendments to these documents. In addition the EER is made available online via Entry into force The Education and Examination Regulations enter into force on August 1 st, Thus established by decree of the Dean on September 13 th, Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

26 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 Rules and Regulations for the Examinations Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)

27 MADE-JM Education and Examination Regulations Annex 1 Section 1 Relation between Erasmus MC Examination Board and the MADE-JM Joint Examination Board A member of the Erasmus MC Examination Board will sit on the MADE-JM Joint Examination Board, which is composed of single representatives of each university. The member representing Erasmus MC will pass on to the joint board the students grades and ECTS obtained during the program period at Erasmus as well as other relevant information on the students. The member in question will inform the joint board whether a student according to the Erasmus MC criteria qualifies for a MADE-JM degree. In order to qualify, a student: - must have obtained 14 ECTS during the first period; - must have obtained 20 ECTS during the second period when this period was spent at Erasmus MC; - must have obtained 25 ECTS and a pass grade for the thesis when the third period was spent in Erasmus MC. The member will also inform the joint board about any ECTS awarded for elective courses. Section 2 Definition The Rules and Regulations for the Examinations serve to supplement and further detail the Education and Examination regulations as well as Examination Board bye-laws. Section 3 Absence Students are required to take examinations at the first opportunity offered. Section 4 Rules of order around examinations 1 Students wishing to take part in an examination are required to be seated in the examination room in principle at the indicated time and within the area designated to the student to this aim. In case of force majeure, admission to the examination room is possible until thirty minutes after the start of the examination concerned. A candidate in the examination may not be admitted to the room later than thirty minutes after the start of the examination. A candidate may not leave the room earlier than one hour after the start of the examination nor within the thirty minutes before the end of the examination. The responsible examiner/invigilator retains the right to deviate from this rule. A student who leaves the examination room before the end of the examination should ensure that he/she causes as little disturbance as possible to the students still present. 2 The candidate in the examination must, on the request of the examiner or the invigilator, prove his/her identity with a valid proof of identity (valid EUR student card, ID-card, Erasmus MC card, passport or drivers license). If such a proof is impossible, the candidate is not allowed to take part in the examination. 3 During a written examination, the examiner or a deputy with expertise in the field is present in one the examination rooms or is available on demand. Annex 1. Erasmus MC NIHES, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam \ \ Education and Examination Regulations MSc Health Sciences (70 ECTS)