Degree award algorithms
The algorithms which apply to Ulster University awards, including courses delivered at partner institutions, were introduced from May 2019.
The best outcome from previous and current algorithm calculations has been extended due to Covid-19 for 2023/24 enrolments.
Your latest module marks, which may include resit marks, will apply within your final award calculations.
Every student has the right to have the best outcome calculated from any of the degree algorithms that was in place during their period of enrolment.
This includes gap years for placement or leave of absence.
Approved variations
The degree algorithms do not apply to students on courses with approved variation of regulations due to Professional, Statutory and Regulatory requirements. Course specific regulations will apply.
This also relates to students who completed Level 5 modules in 2024/25.
Associate awards
Your placement or intercalary years do not count towards your degree calculation.
Module levels
- Level 5 : the standard generally associated with the second year of a full-time undergraduate degree course
- Level 6 : final year honours standard
- Level 7: postgraduate level (Master’s)
Undergraduate - 3 Years
| Start | End | Algorithm 1 | Algorithm 2 | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AY 2024/25` | AY 2026/27 | 30% of level 5 70% of level 6 | N/A | N/A |
| AY 2023/24 | AY 2025/26 | 30% of level 5 70% of level 6 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
| AY 2022/23 | AY 2024/25 |
30% of level 5 70% of level 6 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
| AY 2021/22 | AY 2023/24 |
30% of level 5 70% of level 6 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
| AY 2020/21 | AY 2022/23 |
30% of level 5 70% of level 6 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
| AY 2019/20 | AY 2021/22 |
30% of level 5 70% of level 6 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
| AY 2018/19 | AY 2020/21 |
30% of level 5 70% of level 6 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
If you received previous credit for your studies, view Credit awarded section.
Integrated Masters - 4 Years
An integrated master's degree is a level 7 qualification which combines both undergraduate and postgraduate study into a single course.
| Start | End | Algorithm 1 | Algorithm 2 | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AY 2024/25 | AY 2027/28 | 20% of level 5 30% of level 6 50% of level 7 | N/A | N/A |
| AY 2023/24 | AY 2026/27 | 20% of level 5 30% of level 6 50% of level 7 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
| AY 2022/23 | AY 2025/26 |
20% of level 5 30% of level 6 50% of level 7 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
| AY 2021/22 | AY 2024/25 |
20% of level 5 30% of level 6 50% of level 7 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
| AY 2020/21 | AY 2023/24 |
20% of level 5 30% of level 6 50% of level 7 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
| AY 2019/20 | AY 2022/23 |
20% of level 5 30% of level 6 50% of level 7 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
| AY 2018/19 | AY 2021/22 |
20% of level 5 30% of level 6 50% of level 7 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
| AY 2017/18 | AY 2020/21 |
20% of level 5 30% of level 6 50% of level 7 | 100% of final year | Best mark from either algorithm used |
Credit for previous studies
Undergraduate
Achieved 60 credit points or more at level 5 (2020/21 - 2024/25)
The best mark from either of these two calculations will be used for your degree classification:
- 100% of final year marks, or
- 70% of final year marks and 30% of your marks from the year before
Achieved less than 60 credit points at level 5
- Calculation is based on level 6 at Ulster University only
Entered Ulster University at level 6
- Calculation is based on level 6 at Ulster University only
Foundation Degree Access
There are three different calculations based on the dates and year you entered Ulster University.
Students who entered final year in 2018/19
Your degree is calculated based on 100% of final year marks (level 6) at Ulster University only
Year 2 between 2017/18 to 2024/25
The best mark from either of these two calculations will be used for your degree classification:
- 100% of final year marks, or
- 70% of final year marks and 30% of your marks from the year before
Students who progressed to year one at Ulster University from 2024 onwards
Your degree is calculated using the current algorithm - 70% of final year marks and 30% of your marks from the year before
Who to contact
Here is who to contact to get more information:
- Your course director will provide programme specific information
- UUSU Advice Bureau
- Campus Examinations Office