Understanding your modules

This page details what a module is, which modules you can choose and how to check and/or change your modules.

What is a module?

A module is a self contained component of a programme or programmes of study with defined learning outcomes, teaching and learning methods, and assessment requirements. Modules are generally 15 or 30 credits each and either 12 or 24 weeks in length. There can be exceptions to this. Full time students take 120 credits in each year, studying 60 credits in each term. Subject Requirements provide more detail. View your Subject Requirements to see which modules are available on your course. More in depth information on each module can be found in the Module Catalogue.

Which modules can I choose?

Each programme of study will have a list of available modules. Please read your Subject Requirements for full details.

Can everyone choose their modules?

• studying part time (any stage, including short term credit students)
• who want to change their Degree Programme
• who are studying the International Foundation Programme
• who are studying in Brussels
• who are starting the Law LLM in September (you will be contacted separately regarding your module choices)

If you fall into one of the above categories, please contact your Division.

Please view the OMR FAQs for further information.

Choosing your modules

To choose your modules, you should read your subject requirements, speak to your Academic Adviser, should you wish, and attend your subject briefing sessions if applicable.

It is very important that you read the below information before you decide which modules you want to take.

• Full time Undergraduate students must study 120 credits at each stage.

• At least 90 credits must be taken at Level 6 during Stage 3 (or Stage 4 in four stage programmes) to be eligible for an Undergraduate Honours degree.

• Students are expected to register for 60 credits in each term unless explicitly stated otherwise.

• If a module is available at both Levels 5 and 6, then Stage 2 students should take the Level 5 and Stage 3 the Level 6. Students cannot take both versions of the same module.

• Undergraduate Joint honours students must have a minimum of 90 credits in each subject across stages 2 and 3.

• Modules may be subject to entry requirements or prerequisites. Please refer to the online Module Catalogue for full details of all modules.

• Please note that module entry may be subject to random allocation. Modules may be cancelled in the event of low recruitment.

• Full details of each programme can be found on the programme specification.

• It is ultimately your responsibility to ensure that you are registered for the correct modules for your programme.

• Once timetables are released at the start of term, it is your responsibility to check your timetable and ensure that your modules do not clash.

What are elective modules?

Elective (previously known as wild) modules are modules that fall outside of the subject area of your programme of study.

If your programme permits elective modules (as specified in your Subject Requirements), you must choose from the elective module list that is appropriate for your stage. Please see the below 2024/2025 documents for guidance.

Languages may be studied at any level provided that prerequisites are met and that you comply with Credit Framework rules. Please check with the School of Cultures and Languages or Global Learning if you are unsure of your language level.

Although you are free to apply for any module from the elective modules list, you should note that some modules require certain prerequisite qualifications.

Timetables will not be published until September. It is your responsibility to check your timetable prior to the start of term to ensure your elective module selections do not clash with your required modules. Please note that if an elective module registration does create a timetable clash with your required modules, you will need to withdraw from the elective module and select another.