Introduction

1. Throughout this section of the Academic Quality Handbook the term ‘University’ refers to the Aberystwyth University. The terms ‘Pro Vice-Chancellor’, ‘Academic Registrar’ and ‘Deputy Registrar’ may include designated members of staff acting on behalf of these staff.

2. The Student Disciplinary Procedure applies to all registered students at Aberystwyth University as defined in its Rules and Regulations.

3. The Student Discipline Procedure applies to non-academic misconduct where students are alleged to have breached the University’s Rules and Regulations. It does not apply to complaints about behaviour by staff (investigated under separate disciplinary procedures https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/hr/policy-and-procedure/disciplinary/), or services provided by the University (investigated under the Student Complaints procedure https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/academic-registry/handbook/complaints/). It is also separate from the University’s regulations and procedures in relation to academic misconduct, and the Regulation on Unacceptable Academic Practice.

4. The University reserves the right to investigate any allegations where a registered student is suspected of breaching discipline, even if the student has since withdrawn from the University on a temporary or permanent basis, or has graduated. The outcome would be taken into consideration when considering an application for future study.

5. The procedure applies to allegations of misconduct on and off campus, including a breach of discipline on placements and other external activities.

6. The burden of proof in all cases shall rest on the University and the standard of proof will be on the balance of probabilities.

7. Legal representation will only be permitted in cases considered by the Disciplinary Panel where the consequences for the student are potentially very serious.

8. The University will seek to resolve all investigations within 60 calendar days. Clear reasons will be given in cases where investigations cannot be completed within this timeframe, and the reporting person and responding student will receive regular communication (including delays as a result of university closure periods).