Module switches before the start of classes
If you wish to request a module switch before the start of classes, please follow the instructions on the Module Switch Requests webpage.
Module switches after the start of classes
In general, module switching is not permitted within the I-Explore programme once the classes have started.
However, the CLCC/I-Explore Steering Group (CISG), or a delegate thereof, may consider a module switch request if the rationale given relates to one or more of the principles listed below.
Your home department cannot approve or action any I-Explore module switches. The final decision on whether to allow or not allow a switch of I-Explore module rests with CISG (or its delegate).
I-Explore Module switching is subject to the availability of other modules, and the feasibility of joining another module after it has started. You may find that you are restricted in your choice of which module you are able to switch onto.
Requests to switch module after the classes have started should be emailed to iexplore@imperial.ac.uk.
Principles for Considering Module Switch Requests
A module switch will be considered to protect your health, safety, and welfare.
The I-Explore team will discuss any module switches requested in this category with your home department’s Senior Tutor and only approve switches that are related to your unique circumstances.
A module switch will be considered if you lack the same level of previous knowledge compared to the other students on the module. This usually applies to language modules as the other Horizons, STEMM and BPES modules are designed to accommodate students from all backgrounds.
Language module switches
If you request a module switch due to competency, you will be invited to a meeting with the relevant coordinator or module leader. The meeting will be used to discuss your concerns and whether a reasonable adjustment can be put in place to allow you to fully participate.
If you are struggling with your language module, please raise this with your lecturer as soon as possible. Level changes may be actioned within the same language during the first three weeks of classes.
A change to a different subject will only be approved if both you and the language coordinator agree that your level of previous experience is lower than the rest of the class and it is not possible to move you to a different level of the same language or agree a reasonable adjustment.
A module change will be considered if your allocated I-Explore module restricts your choice later in your degree programme.
Example 1: If you are enrolled on a ‘with Management’ degree or are intending to switch to one, and have mistakenly enrolled for a BPES module which will prevent you from being eligible for that degree path.
Example 2: If you need to take a specific language module to prepare for a Year Abroad.
There is a dedicated I-Explore time slot for each year group. Departments have been asked by the university to set aside these times, to avoid clashes with your core studies.*
However, there are a limited number of circumstances where a clash may occur. A module switch will therefore be considered where a timetable or content clash occurs with a core or elective module that was unknown before enrolment.
Example 1: If you are taking a core BPES module and there is an overlap in content with your I-Explore module.
Example 2: If you have chosen a BPES elective module which is scheduled in the same timetable slot as your I-Explore module.
*If you notice that you have a timetable clash, please raise this with your home department and the I-Explore team. In the first instance, we will work to resolve the clash, and switches will only be considered if there are unavoidable or unique circumstances.
Circumstances in which a module switch will not be considered
A module switch will not be considered if you are experiencing a heavy workload from your main degree, if this is true for all students on the same programme.
A switch will only be considered if you have a unique set of circumstances which make your workload significantly heavier than the other students in your cohort or meaning that the impact on you is higher than on the other students.
The I-Explore team will discuss any module switches requested in this category with your home department’s Senior Tutor and only approve switches that are related to your unique circumstances.
A module switch will not be considered if you are experiencing a heavy workload from your chosen I-Explore module.
All I-Explore modules contribute 5 ECTS to your main degree*. The ECTS value of a module represents the amount of work associated with that module. All 5 ECTS modules are designed to carry the same workload, however, the way the work is distributed may differ.
A 5 ECTS module taught over 20 weeks will carry the same overall workload as 5 ECTS module taught over 10 weeks. It is the balance of class time and independent work that differs (20-week modules require less work at home).
*Language modules carry 7.5 ECTS and therefore a proportionally higher workload. This larger size is intended to enable students to progress from one language level to another (e.g. Language Level A2 to Language Level B1).
Please note that if you take a language module as part of I-Explore only 5 ECTS will contribute to your degree. The additional 2.5 ECTS is a permitted overshoot.
If you are struggling with the workload from your I-Explore module, please reach out to the module leader or your personal tutor to discuss how best to manage this.
A module switch will not be considered if you have changed your mind or don’t enjoy the module you have signed up for.
A module switch will not be considered if you have failed to attend or have not engaged with your I-Explore module unless there are mitigating circumstances.