Academic Standards and Policy Committee (ASPC)

The purpose of the Academic Standards and Policy Committee was to assist and advise the Academic Board in ensuring the maintenance of the highest standards and quality in teaching, scholarship and research in the University of Sydney.

Terms of reference
1.To play an active role in assuring the quality of teaching, scholarship and research in the University and co-ordinate and maintain an overview of the academic activities of all academic units.
2.To formulate and review policies, guidelines and procedures in relation to academic matters, particularly with respect to academic issues that have scope across the University, including equity and access initiatives.
3.To determine policy concerning the programs of study or examinations in any Faculty, college or Board of Studies.
4.To advise the Academic Board and Vice Chancellor on policies concerning the academic aspects of the conditions of appointment and employment of academic staff.
5.To play an active role in assuring the quality of teaching, scholarship and research in the University by ensuring the body of academic policies and degree resolutions are self-consistent, incorporate the best ideas and are aligned with the strategic goals of the University.
6.In pursuit of the above objectives:
6.1. request reports from, or refer matters to academic units for consideration and action as required
6.2. consider and take action as required on reports or academic submissions from academic units
6.3. initiate and oversee, in collaboration with the University Executive, a formal and regular program of review of academic activities of all academic units.
7.To actively seek and evaluate opportunities to improve the University’s pursuit of high standards in all academic activities.
8.To ensure proper communication channels are established with other committees of the Academic Board and the University Executive to promote cross-referencing and discussion of matters pertaining to academic standards and policy.
9.To receive regular reports from, and provide advice to the Deputy Vice-Chancellors pursuant to maintaining the highest standards in teaching, scholarship and research.
10.To exercise all reasonable means to provide and receive advice from the University Executive and its relevant subcommittees.
11.To provide regular reports on its activities under its terms of reference to the Academic Board.
12.To consider and report on any matter referred to it by the Academic Board, the Vice Chancellor or the Deputy Vice-Chancellors.

In December 2017 the Admissions Subcommittee reported to the Committee. Its terms of reference were approved by Academic Board Resolution AB2018/1-3 (6 March 2018);
amended by Academic Board Resolution AB2018/2-10 (1 May 2018)