Course Information

Postgraduate Elective and Optional Modules

Depending on the Postgraduate Course you undertake you may be able to select Elective or Optional Modules. Your school will provide full details on availability and registration during your initial induction session at the commencement of your studies.

Leave of Absence

There are some circumstances in which you may find it necessary to take leave of absence (LOA) from your course for a period. This might include illness, personal circumstances, or other external pressures. Occasionally this is unavoidable, but in many cases there is some discretion about whether LOA is appropriate and, if so, the timing of the leave. We will need to understand fully the circumstances giving rise to the request for leave.

Note that no fees are payable for any period of approved LOA and you are not allowed access to any Keele support or facilities. Also, please be aware that the University may not be able to guarantee that you will be able to return to your original programme of study following a leave of absence.

When considering an application for LOA we will need to be clear about what stage you are at in your course and arrangements put in place for taking up your course on your return. In most cases, LOA will be granted on reasonable grounds provided you have completed all modules which you have started. If you are in the middle of a module, then the case for LOA will need to be compelling, and arrangements for your return will need to be put in place. These arrangements may require that you start the module again. (See also Regulation 10)

International students should be aware that taking a leave of absence affects your right to stay in the UK (if you are on a student visa) and you should consult the International Student Support Officer – 01782 733801 or iss@keele.ac.uk

Click here to download a Postgraduate Taught Leave of Absence Request Form

You then need to contact your School and make arrangements to discuss your leave application with the Course Director for your programme. Please remember to bring your LOA form with you to any meeting.

If you are granted Leave of Absence the Course Director will sign your form to confirm approval and return it to you. It is your responsibility to ensure the form is passed to the Records and Exam Office as soon as possible. Student Records will then process the leave of absence and notify Accommodation Services (for students in University accommodation only), the finance office and the student's Local Authority (LA) - if applicable. You will then receive a confirmation letter from Student Records that your Leave of Absence has been processed.

Extenuating Circumstances

There may be times when problems and difficulties affect your emotional and/or psychological wellbeing. This, in turn, may be impacting on your academic work.

If you wish your current circumstances to be considered you will need to notify your school, and complete an extenuating circumstances form. For further details please follow this link.

Postgraduate Regulations

For further details please follow this link.

Withdrawal from the University

In order to leave the University you are required to complete and sign a Postgraduate Notice of Withdrawal Form.

When we have processed your withdrawal we will send you a letter confirming you have been withdrawn from the University.

PLEASE NOTE: You remain liable to pay fees until a Withdrawal Form has been completed.