Credit/Contact Hour Policy

At the London School of Management and Technology (LSMT), our credit/contact hour policy adheres to the Carnegie system. This framework is applied uniformly across all modules, degree levels, and instructional formats, ensuring consistency and maintaining the quality of our academic offerings. Below is a comprehensive overview of how credit hours are awarded at LSMT:

  • 1. Lectures, Seminars, and Discussions:

    • For traditional classroom-based modules, the award of credit hours follows this structure:

  • Credit Allocation: One term credit hour is granted for every fifteen 50-minute sessions conducted throughout the term.
  • Outside Preparation: Students are expected to complete an additional two hours of outside preparation for each session attended.
  • Example: For a three-credit module, students typically meet three times per week over a fifteen-week term, culminating in a total of 45 sessions. This model can be adapted to fit different academic calendars.

  • 2. Group-Supervised Activities (Labs, Field Trips, Practicums):

For modules involving lab work or group-supervised activities:

  • Credit Allocation: One credit hour is awarded for 45 sessions of 50 minutes each, or for 15 sessions that last 150 minutesor more.
  • Minimal Outside Preparation: These activities usually demand limited outside preparation, with credits awarded based on active participation.
  • Extended Sessions: In cases where significant preparation is necessary, 100-minute sessions over 15 weeks may also qualify for credit.

  • 3. Individual Supervised Study (Independent Study or Tutorials):

For independent study or tutorial sessions:

  • Credit Allocation: Students earn one credit hour for every 45 sessions of 50 minutes each, conducted under direct faculty supervision.
  • Study Structure: This includes programmes where students undertake independent work with initial guidance and periodic assessment from tutors, ultimately leading to a final evaluation.

  • 4. Full-Time Independent Study (Practicums, Teaching, etc.):

For students engaged in full-time academic responsibilities:

  • Credit Allocation: One credit hour is awarded for each week of full-time work in an academic context, such as student teaching or extended practicums.
  • Recognition of Commitment: This policy acknowledges the intensive nature of full-time study-related work.

  • 5. Experiential Learning:

We recognise the importance of learning experiences outside the classroom:

  • Credit Allocation:Credits are awarded for significant experiential learning components in degree programmes, such as internships or fieldwork.
  • Awarding Structure: One term credit hour is granted for every 40-45 clock hours of supervised experiential learning.

  • 6. Examinable Credit:
  • Demonstrated Mastery: We may award credit based on students' demonstrated mastery of module materials through examinations.
  • Usage of Credit: This type of credit can fulfill degree requirements or potentially reduce the total number of credit hours needed for graduation.

  • 7. Short or Intensive Sessions:

For accelerated modules, such as those offered during summer or intersession:

  • Proportional Credit Awarding: Credit hours may be granted in proportion to those earned during regular term terms.
  • Limitation: No more than one credit hour is awarded per week of full-time study.

  • 8. Appeals and Reconsiderations:

Students who wish to appeal the credit hour policy or request reconsideration for unique circumstances can do so:

  • Submission Process: Requests should be directed to our Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.
  • Case-by-Case Review: Special arrangements, including credits earned from accredited international programmes, will be assessed on an individual basis.

Ensuring Consistency

This credit/contact hour policy is designed to ensure uniformity across all our programmes, providing a transparent and structured framework for awarding credit hours. It accommodates various educational experiences, including traditional classroom instruction, independent study, hands-on learning, and experiential education.

Contact Information

For any questions or specific inquiries regarding the credit hour policy, students are encouraged to reach out to the academic office. Our team is ready to assist you with any concerns you may have regarding your academic journey.