Socrates/Erasmus students
** Closing date for applications is 1 June **
How to plan your programme of study
Most, but not all, of the undergraduate courses at The University of Northampton are organised within what is termed a 'Common Academic Framework' (abbreviated CAF), which regulates taught programmes leading to The University of Northampton awards. The principal purpose of the CAF is to ensure equity of experience and treatment for students, whatever course they are on, in terms of study hours, assessment, standards etc.
The CAF is a modular framework; that is to say — it divides the content of each course into discrete units of study called modules. Each module is credit rated and as you successfully complete modules you accumulate credit towards your particular award. Details of all modules available within the CAF in a given academic year can be found online. All CAF modules are credit rated according to the Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) system and the credit rating for each module appears in the module catalogue (see above).
Note: 1 ECTS credit = 2 CATS credits
In planning your programme of study you should consult the module catalogue referred to above, you should then submit your application to the International Programmes Administrator. Where a chosen module has 'pre-requisites' you will be required to demonstrate to the module leader that your previous study at your home institution has prepared you sufficiently to pursue that module. Excluded combinations of modules do not apply to Socrates/Erasmus students as long as your home institution is content for you to pursue that combination.
When you have planned your programme of study and ensured you meet any requirements for pre-requisites you should take your study programme to the International Programmes Administrator who will then check that your chosen programme is feasible within The University of Northampton timetabling constraints. When your programme has been agreed you should complete and submit your European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) Learning Agreement for signature and transmission to your home institution for them to confirm your programme.
It is recommended that if you haven't studied in English before you consider taking the Academic Skills Preparation Course.
Note: Our CAF modules extend for an academic year — our awards are not semesterised. Thus, if you study at The University of Northampton for only one term or one semester e.g. 1/2 an academic year, you will be credited with only 1/2 the relevant CATS points and ECTS credits.
During the first week(s) of your study you will receive a detailed guide to each module you are studying.
Useful links
- Information for pospective students
- The University of Northampton International Office
- European Commision website
- Course/subject guide: a guide to the course or subject(s) for which you are enrolled; Module Guide: information about a specific module, including details of the teaching programme and the requirements for assessment - Common Academic Framework (CAF) pages and Module Catalogue
Further information
If you need further information please email the International Office: international@northampton.ac.uk