Academic information

Academic structures

The academic year starts in early October and ends in June. The University operates a term system with three terms (Michaelmas, Epiphany, Easter) in one academic year. Terms last between 9-11 weeks each. All Durham undergraduate modules are full-year modules and run from October to June, ending with exams in May/June.

Durham University is a centre of learning, as well as teaching. Teaching is provided in the form of lectures, seminars and/or tutorials. You will also be encouraged to work independently using all the academic resources available besides the time you spend in class. Most college offers learning support for their students. Also, staff/student relationships are friendly and good at Durham. If, at any time, you are concerned about any aspect of your work, you can talk to the member of staff who has taught the module or the member of staff who has been appointed as your academic tutor in the department. 

Study Support

You may find that the academic structures and processes at UK universities are very different than those in your home university. If you have any questions or concerns about your academic work then please make sure you speak to someone. This could be your lecturer, the Exchange Coordinator in your department, your college tutor or the Exchanges & Study Abroad Officer in the International Office.

Good to know: Prepare for Success is an interactive website which offers learning activities to help you prepare for your studies in the UK.

Exams and Assessment

Students will be asked to complete a number of assignments and short papers in each term. Some of these are formative (i.e. are marked to provide you with feedback on your progress) and other are summative (i.e. they are marked and will count towards your final module mark). Formal written examinations are held the end of each academic year only and normally start from week three in the Easter term (May/ June).

Academic transcript

Each student who has completed assessment for their modules at Durham will receive a transcript of grades. This will be sent to your home address or your home university if you request it.

Please note that it is usually not possible to provide you with a transcript before you leave Durham. If you require a transcript early or by a particular deadline then please inform the Exchanges & Study Abroad Team.