Programme Handbook Template

Purpose and scope

This programme handbook template helps institutions describe a single theological programme clearly to students, staff and quality reviewers. Use it to set out learning outcomes, assessment rules, programme structure, student support, academic regulations and local legal responsibilities.

The handbook is a student‑facing document and must be accurate, current and publicly available. It complements institutional policies (admissions, assessment, complaints, refunds, fitness to study) rather than replacing them.

Core sections to include

A programme handbook should contain the following sections so students understand expectations and protections:

• Programme overview — title, level, credit or hours, mode and duration.
• Learning outcomes — clear, measurable outcomes for the award.
• Curriculum and modules — module titles, credit value and sequence.
• Assessment — assessment types, submission rules, marking criteria, re-assessment and late submission penalties.
• Progression and award rules — pass marks, progression thresholds and award classification (where applicable).
• Student support — pastoral support, academic guidance, disability adjustments and appeals.
• Academic integrity — plagiarism, cheating, sanctions and guidance on referencing.
• Fees and refunds — fees, schedules and refund conditions, and any additional costs.
• Regulatory and legal responsibilities — student rights, visa or statutory requirements (where relevant) and the institution’s obligations.
• Contacts and complaints — how to contact programme staff and how to raise complaints or appeals.

Draft template notes (practical tips)

Write in plain language. Use headings and a short contents page. Numberised policies help clarity (for example: Assessment 1.1, Assessment 1.2). Publish the handbook alongside institutional policies and update it annually or whenever regulations, staff, or programme content change. Keep a version history and effective date on the front page.

Where local law requires additional statements (for example consumer protection, accreditation disclosures or immigration rules), include those verbatim as advised by legal counsel or the relevant authority.

Student-facing transparency and accuracy

Ensure every statement students rely on — award title, learning outcomes, assessment method, awarding body and any professional or statutory requirements — is accurate. Institutions must not imply governmental recognition when none exists. Keep public programme pages and the handbook aligned at all times.

Version control and accessibility

Record handbook version number, approval date and effective academic year. Provide accessible formats and clear signposting for students with additional learning needs. Keep an archived copy of previous versions for appeals and external review.