This section helps to explain the academic modules including relating questions about credits, delivery and assessment.

How many academic modules can I take?

Students will take only ONE academic Module. Each academic module offers an intensive study programme condensing 20 credits into 4 weeks, with more than 40 contact hours.

When do the credit hours take place?

The credit hours for each module will be structured within the 'Academic' slots indicated on the programme model, and are likely to equate to 15 hours per full week (weeks 2 and 3) and 7.5 hours per half week (weeks 1 and 4). Contact time does not usually take place on a Monday morning or a Friday afternoon and these time slots are designated for self study.

What if I am ill or can't attend a class?

Attendance of allocated Academic sessions is expected to be at least 80%. Academic leads may be willing to consider extenuating circumstances for absence, but to ensure recognised completion of the Summer School, students are expected to be in attendance of at least 80% of allocated classes.

What type of academic level are the modules?

All courses are approved and assessed at Level 2 (second year undergraduate level). Although some courses do not require students to have specific prior knowledge and may be introductory, modules will be academically rigorous even at introductory entry into the field of study, and assume a first undergraduate year of academic study has been completed

Do the modules require any pre-requisites?

For pre-requisites please check individual module outlines found on each module page under the Academic tab. The majority of modules assume little or no prior knowledge, however due to the intensive nature of the programme all students should come equipped with an interest in the subject and a willingness to participate in order to fulfil the requirements of the course.

Can I change my module option after I have submitted my application?

We strongly advise students to choose their module option with care at the time of application. It may however be possible to change your module options after registration/before commencing the course, but this will be strictly subject to availability.

How many students will be taught in each module class?

Each module will be taught in small classes of between 12-24 students depending on individual module capacity. This works well for small group work, class debates and field trips, and allows module leads to make excellent records on individual students to aid assessment.

How will the modules be taught?

Each week will involve around a dozen contact hours, and delivery will be through a range of teaching methods, the majority being participative seminars and workshops, with the emphasis on interaction and hands-on learning in labs or out on field trips. Academic sessions may consist of lectures, seminars, labs, debates, group work, field trips and assessment sessions.

Will I have to do any preparatory work before beginning the module programme?

Yes. Students may be asked to carry out advance preparations, for example from a reading list provided. Some modules may expect students to complete small tasks prior to the beginning of the programme's start date. However, even if no set tasks are given it is advised that students familiarise themselves with the course material, which will be made available from 1 June 2013.

How will be the modules be assessed?

Each module may include different methods of assessment, for example class test, individual presentation, group presentation, field trip reports, lab reports, written coursework, group critical analysis, debate preparation and group discussion contribution. Module assessment could take place during any of the allocated contact sessions throughout the duration of the course, and students should expect to be continually assessed and monitored. Students will benefit from two periods of self study per week, during which individual tutorials can be arranged by students or module leads. Details on assessment and teaching for each module are on the relevant module page at www.uea.ac.uk.summerstudyabroad/modules

What will I get to say I've completed the course?

Students completing the Summer School (at the required minimum attendance level) will receive a completion certificate at the graduation ceremony. This is not an indication of academic credit but may be accepted by your home institution in recognition of credit hours completed.

How do the credits from the academic module translate?

Each module is set at a level 2 undergraduate level and is set at 20 UK credits. This equates to between 4-6 US credit hours, depending on the institution, and may differ in other countries. Individuals must check with their home institution about credit transfer entitlement and whether credit transfer is accepted. The University will send transcripts to students completing the course after marks have been presented before the assessment board, expected to be at the end of September 2013.

Will I be able to use these academic credits towards my current degree?

It is your responsibility to check with your home institution whether academic credits gained on the International Summer School will be contributory towards your degree. Our Partner institutions with whom we have a recognised relationship are already in a position to accept credit transfer from our University. The University of East Anglia will provide full support in the transfer of academic credits to your home institution. Please contact us if you require any assistance providing information to your home institution.

Will I need to buy any materials for the module, like textbooks?

You will not be asked or required to make any academic purchases to complete your selected module. Advance reading lists will be provided and all books recommended are available from our library, to which all Summer School students have access. Many of the module outlines provide links to downloadable texts which can be accesses from overseas at a relatively low cost and may be a suitable alternative to borrowing or purchasing texts.

Can I attend the International Summer School if I am already on an undergraduate programme at UEA?

Yes. Please contact us if you are currently a student at the University and would like to consider a place on the International Summer School.