Role of the Senate and its Committees

The core function of the Senate is to regulate and superintend the teaching and discipline of the University and to promote research. 

Members Guidance

Current Senate members will find materials to support them in their role including the Senate Handbook in the members portal.

An induction session is held for new members in September.  Members will be contacted directly with details of the session.

Senate's responsibilities

Senate's responsibilities are as set out in the Statement of Senate's Primary Responsibilities, as approved by the University Court.

Statement of Senate's Primary Responsibilities

Delegated authority

Senate has its delegated authority in specific areas to three standing committees. Detailed committee remits and membership lists can be found on the individual committee pages. These standing committees report to Senate on an annual basis, normally to the first Ordinary meeting of each year 

• Academic Policy and Regulations Committee
• Education Committee
• Quality Assurance Committee

Senate also delegates specific tasks to the Honorary Degrees Committee

• Honorary Degrees Committee

Senate Exception Committee

Senate Exception Committee has delegated authority to make urgent business decisions which would otherwise require Senate approval between the meetings of Senate, on the understanding that any matter so referred can be referred by the Exception Committee to the full Senate should this be the wish of the Exception Committee. Decisions of the Senate Exception Committee are reported to the next Ordinary meeting of Senate.

Senate and University governance

Further information on University governance can be found on the University website.

• University governance