Postgraduate Student Handbook 2020-2021 - Sohar University
Postgraduate StudentHandbook2020-2021Version 4.02019-20201
Introduction3A Message from the Vice Chancellor4Part 1: SU Mission, Vision and Values5-6Part 2: Academic Calendars7-8Part 3: Academic Programs and Units9-14Part 4: Academic Information15-25Part 5: Graduate Attributes26-27Part 6: Assessment28-40Part 7: Academic Support Services41-47Part 8: Student Support Services48-54Part 9: Student Advisory Council55-57Part 10: Health Safety and Environment58-59Part 11 :General Rules & Regulations60-64Part 12: Appendices65-71roduction2
IntroductionThis purpose of this handbook is to provide all SU postgraduate students with a general overview ofthe University. In the next pages you will find a range of information related to faculties; campusfacilities, academic support, student support, progression and assessment, general University rulesand regulations in addition to some key student forms you may require during your tenure at SU.At SU, the following is the list of all post graduate programs offered across 5 faculties: Master in Business Administration(MBA) Master in Computer Science Master in Education in the following streams: Master of Education in Foundation and Education Administration Master of Curriculum and Teaching Methods(Arabic) Master of Curriculum and Teaching Methods(General) Master of Curriculum and Teaching Methods(Islamic Studies) Master of Curriculum and Teaching Methods(Social Studies) Master of Curriculum and Teaching Methods(Maths) Master of School Sport Sciences Master of Engineering in Environmental Engineering(MEng) Master in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MA TESOL) Teacher Preparation Program3
A Message from the Vice ChancellorDear Post Graduate Student,I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you all toSohar University, the first private university in the Sultanate ofOman. We hope you have a rewarding and enjoyable learningexperience with us.Our commitment is to academic quality. We will thereforeprovide first-rate tuition from well qualified and experiencedacademic staff, as well as modern state-of-the-art teachingand learning facilities. Our recently completed academicbuildings provide high-quality lecture theatres and modernlaboratories with the latest teaching and research equipment.The new Learning Resources Centre will further support ourability to provide a quality learning experience for students.This is a world-class facility that will be an asset to bothstudents and staff. It will become the focal point for learningon the campus and we plan to extend opening hours sostudents and staff can benefit from this magnificent resource.In return we ask for your contribution to the University and its future by working hard,participating in activities, enjoying our stay with us and ultimately graduating competentgraduateinyourchosen field. By sodoing, you will not only assure your own future but also you will strengthen the reputation ofSohar University and benefit future generations of students.More recently, we have increased the emphasis on research. Our staff have been successfulin winning research grants from The Research Council of Oman and from internationalresearch funding bodies. We are embarking on a number of exciting research andindustry collaboration initiatives with major companies operating in Oman. As a student,you will have the opportunity to benefit from these research initiatives both through therelated akenincapstonecourses.This handbook is designed to help you throughout your course of study and youshould retain it for future reference.I am sure you will enjoy the challenge that studying at university brings. Finally, may I take theopportunity once again of wishing you every success in your postgraduate’s studies at SoharUniversity.4
Part 1SU Mission, Vision and Values5
Sohar University (SU) was established by Ministerial Decree on 11 September 2001 as the first privateUniversity in the Sultanate of Oman. It was granted degree awarding powers, with the authority toprovide programs and courses whose successful completion leads to the academic awards of theUniversity. This authority is, of course, subject to the rulings of the Ministry of Higher Education(MoHE) and the Oman Academic Accreditation Authority (OAAA).In September 2020, the University will roll out a number of events and activities throughout the year tocelebrate 20 years providing access to students to build a knowledge nation.SU Mission, Vision and ValuesMissionEngaging minds, transforming lives and serving the community.VisionTo provide access and opportunity to build a knowledge nation.ValuesEthicsFoster the highest academic and professional standards in the spirit of open and critical thought andenquiry.CommitmentThe contribution from staff, students and all stakeholders to provide excellence and enhanceacademic, professional and personal development.InclusionStaff and students working together for shared success in an inclusive environment that promotes andencourages a culture of respect for people and ideas.CreativitySupport intellectual freedom and creativity, and encourage staff and students to explore andinnovate, and become creative, independent thinkers and entrepreneurs.6
Part 2Academic Calendar7
Academic Calendar 2020/21SemesterFaculty ofBusinessFaculty ofComputingand ITFaculty of Faculty ofEducation Engineeringand ArtsFaculty ofLanguageStudiesSemester 1 Start Level-1date27 September2020Level-229 November202004 October202004 October202004 October202004 October2020Semester 1Add/drop15 October202015 October202015 October202015 October202015 October2020Semester 1Classes EndLevel-115 November2020Level-217 January2021Level-122 November2020Level-224 January2021Level-124 January202131 December 31 December 31 December 31 December2020202020202020Semester 1Exam period10 January202110 January202110 January202110 January202124 January202124 January202124 January202124 January2021Level-221 March 2021Semester 24 February4 FebruaryAdd/drop period 202120214 February20214 February20214 February2021Semester 2classes endLevel-122 April14 March 2021 2021Level-216 may 202129 April202122 April202122 April2021Semester 2Exam periodLevel-12 May14 March 2021 2021Level-223 May 20212 May 2021 2 May2021Semester 2Classes begin2 May20218
Part 3Academic Programs and Units9
Faculty of BusinessThe Faculty of Business offers its flagship MBA Program to business executives in Oman.Since its inception in 2011, the MBA program has been providing quality business educationto executives for managing their places of work with the latest knowhow, innovation, abilities,and creativity.The MBA program is a leading program in its content and learning methodology, which aims atproviding educational opportunities at the highest international standards to qualify the Arab andglobal market with top tier business leaders in various sectors.The Faculty’s MBA program implements unique and modern academic and professional courses thatwere selected based upon market need and benchmarked with the best MBA programs taughtworldwide. All MBA courses have been designed to bolster the advancement of knowledge withpractical real-world applications facilitating graduates’ advancement in their career development.Market research worldwide revealed that the majority of organizations (Inside and outside Oman)advertised requesting applicants to fill business administration job vacancies, such as brandingmanagers, human resources directors, economic development directors etc. Looking for nontraditional “practical” MBA graduates who were internationally aware and had the ability to conversewith different dialogues that appear across different cultures around the globe. When organizationswere to compare between MBA and non-MBA holders, it was well-determined that MBA holderspossessed the sought qualities of maturity where they were independent, self-sufficient and wereable to handle themselves without referring to their superiors.Our MBA alumni are occupying senior positions in their professions and providing invaluableservices to their companies and communities. They are highly attracted by many national anddistinguished international organizations in various business sectors due to the highly qualitystandards of the MBA program at Sohar University.Contact: Extension 206 or 72410
Faculty of Computing and ITThe Faculty offers a comprehensive Master’s degree in Computer science and focuses onpractical-based information technology and computing.The aim of the Master if Computer Science is to provide professional post graduate-leveleducation and to maintain continuing relationship with the industrial community throughmaster level educational activities.The Master Computer Science program (M.Sc.) is designed to provide required knowledge,skills and experiences that will help the students achieving their career goals. In addition, thegraduate students can start their own business in the areas of computing and informationtechnology like networking, databases and web engineering etc.A student with a Master in Computer Science could work in the following fields: Software DeveloperApplications ArchitectComputer Systems AnalystComputer Network ArchitectInformation Security AnalystCloud EngineerComputer and Information Research ScientistsComputer and Information Systems ManagersMobile Applications DeveloperSystems Security AdministratorNetwork Security AdministratorERP Technical DeveloperContact: Extension 312 or 16111
Faculty of Education and ArtsThe Faculty of Education and Arts offers a number of postgraduate educational programs atMaster’s level, as well as a Teacher Preparation Program.The Faculty offers outstanding learning opportunities to enhance employability and promotelifelong learning.Contact: Extension 607 or 26612
Faculty of EngineeringThe Master of Engineering in Environmental Engineering program provides an appliedEnvironmental Engineering education in a multi-cultural learning background. The programimproves the decision-making, design and research capabilities of our students by providingadvanced applications in Environmental Engineering fields.The program also enhances students’ experimental, analytical, communicational, professionaland technological skills.The Master program is unique as it prepares its Environmental Engineers with advanced levelof proficiency in mathematics, probability and statistics, calculus-based physics, generalchemistry, earth science, biological science and fluid mechanics.The Master program encompasses a variety of learning modules, highly tailored courses,project-based experience, and leadership and professional development initiatives.A Master of Engineering in Environmental Engineering degree graduate can be recruited inmany fields including: industries, consultancies and education sectors related toEnvironmental Engineering.The Master graduate can work as Senior Engineer, Senior Environmental Engineer, AcademicStaff in Environmental Engineering, Safety Engineer, Quality Control Engineer and SeniorEnvironmental Engineering Researcher.Contact: Extension 312 or 16113
Faculty of Language StudiesTeaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is a rigorous postgraduateprogramme that stands out with promising career opportunities by preparing MA TESOLgraduates to make powerful difference in the teaching and research communities.Students gain in-depth knowledge of the eclectic approaches to successfully teach and doresearch in EFL, grasp the implications of linguistic and psychological theories for classroomlanguage learning practice, design, develop and evaluate curricula and assessment portfoliosin EAP and ESP courses and programmes. The programme is thriving in integrating directexperience with Omani school students and teachers by offering opportunities of hands-onobservations in schools to reflect on their learning, teaching and research.Research methodology is another strong asset of the MA TESOL programme providing wellstructured research methodology courses overviewing quantitative, qualitative and mixedresearch methods that prepare students for the writing-up of their research proposal beforeengaging them in an independent research project for their MA thesis under expertsupervision to optimize their research output.Contact: Extension 492 or 28414
Part 4Academic Information15
The Academic YearThe academic year for all postgraduate programs at SU normally consists of twosemesters. The duration of each semester depends on the individual program offered byeach Faculty.Number of UnitsA student may not normally register for more than 6 units in a semester. (3 courses).Attendance RequirementsIf a student fails to attend at least 70% of classes in a course, then he/she may be deemed to have notsatisfactorily participated in the course and may fail.If, because of special or mitigating circumstances, a student knows in advance that he/she will beabsent and these absences are likely to cause him/her to be unable to attend at least 70% of classesthen:1. He/she must meet with the academic advisor, Course Coordinator and the Dean.2. A plan can be developed so that learning experiences can be adequately compensated for.This plan must be submitted to the DVC Academic Affairs for approval early in the semester.Note: A student cannot assume that a satisfactory plan will always be possible. In this case, it will bethe responsibility of the student either to make sure that attendance is above the required level orwithdraw from the course.Definition of AwardsPrograms are delivered to a specific award level and duration. Variations may occur between Facultiesand among programs in a Faculty, but programs normally have four 2-unit courses in each of twosemesters per year (16 units per level).Requirements for Completion of an AwardFor a student to be awarded the relevant qualification, he/she must have:1. passed all required courses and fulfilled all other academic requirements of his/her program2. paid his/her University fees, and3. returned all University property16
The student must have a CGPA that is equal to, or greater than 2.00 to meet the requirements of anaward.Grading SystemThe grading scale is standardized across all University courses. It also applies equally to grading forindividual assignments and is aggregated according to the weightings of assessments, to courses as awhole. The grading system is based on a 0 to 4 scale and it is used as set out in the following table.Note: SU uses criterion-based assessment, thus, descriptors should be established so that studentsare clear about what is expected of them.Table 20: Sohar University Grading ScaleClassificationExceptional performance: The student provided anexceptionally high quality of performance and through thisdemonstrated an exceptionally high standard of learningachievement in relation to the course learning outcomes.Excellent Performance: The student provided a highquality of performance and through this demonstrated ahigh standard of learning achievement in relation to thecourse learning outcomes.Very good Performance: The student provided a verygood quality of performance and through thisdemonstrated a sound standard of learning achievement inrelation to the course learning outcomes.Good Performance: The student provided good quality ofperformance and through this demonstrated an acceptablestandard of learning achievement in relation to the courselearning outcomes.Satisfactory Performance: The student provided anacceptable quality of performance and through thisdemonstrated an acceptable standard of learningachievement in relation to the course learning outcomes.Fail: The student did not provide a quality of performancethat demonstrated an acceptable standard of learningachievement in relation to the course learning outcomes.Range (%)Grade85 - 1004.075 - 853.5 - 4.065 - 753.0 - 3.557.5 - 652.5 - 3.050 - 57.52.0 - 2.50 - 500 - 217
Admission and RegistrationSU has established clear and explicit admission requirements for entry to postgraduate programmes.Admission to the University is open to all nationalities resident in Oman, and others wishing to cometo Oman. Enrolment for foreign students will not be valid until all immigration procedures for stayingin Oman as a student are finalized.Admission and entry requirements may vary according to the academic programme offered,language of delivery and competency required etc.Admission to any postgraduate program is based on the reasonable expectation that a student will beable to fulfil the objectives of the program and achieve the standard required for the award. Thenumber of students admitted to postgraduate programs is controlled by directives issued by theMinistry of Higher Education.All entry qualifications must be authenticated, so students are required to provide proof ofqualifications gained. Any student not complying with such a request, or falsifying evidence, is liable toexclusion from the University.All entry requirements to postgraduate programs must comply with MoHE requirements andregulations, and must be reviewed annually in line with SU regulations and updated in the StudentAdmission Policy.Admission requirements are reviewed annually in accordance with national standards and approvedby the Academic Board.Entry Requirements – Postgraduate ProgrammesTo be eligible to apply for entry to postgraduate programmes offered at Sohar University, prospectivestudents must have: Completed a Bachelor degree, or A postgraduate qualification, or A qualification recognised as equivalent to the above Met specified language requirements for some programmes. This is will differ from program toanother and full details are outlined per programme on the following pages Passed an interview with the admission committee (if required)Further specifications may be required in addition, on a course by course basis, such as: The subject of the qualification (depending on whether the subject is an extension orconversion programme) The level or grade of the qualification (e.g. honours or ordinary degree; any specifiedclassification or grade) Other requirements.For admission to postgraduate programs, the general admission regulations, as above, will applytogether with any admission requirements specific to a particular postgraduate programme. This mayinclude a Bachelors qualification at a particular level of achievement, related work experience, andlanguage proficiency.18
Application Requirements – All ProgramsApplicants intending to enter SU postgraduate programs, have to complete and submit the followingdocuments: A completed online/printed form, available at Admission and Registration Department. General Diploma Certificate- Secondary School Certificate. 2 Copies of National ID and passport. 2 Attested copies of former/relevant transcripts and academic certificates. 5 passport-size photographs A copy of language proficiency certificate, where applicable. A copy of experience certificate, if relevant. Equation letter from Ministry of Higher Education for degrees from outside Oman (for PGprogramme entry only)The admission of a student is based on the reasonable expectation that he/she will be able to fulfilthe objectives of the program and achieve the standard required for the award.Numbers of students admitted may be controlled by directives issued by the Ministry of HigherEducation as well as by internal recruitment targets of the University.All entry qualifications must be authenticated, so students must provide proof of qualificationsgained. Any student not complying with such a request or falsifying evidence is liable to exclusionfrom the University.Registration New StudentAll new and continuing students of the University must register at the beginning of each semester.Instructions on ho
Postgraduate Student Handbook 2020-2021 Version 4.0 2019-2020 . 2 Introduction 3 . This purpose of this handbook is to provide all SU postgraduate students with a general overview of . were selected based upon market need and benchmarked with the best MBA programs taught
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