In most universities, the classification of a Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours degree is determined based on the student's overall academic performance, which includes both honours marks and pass subjects. The percentage required for first class or division may vary slightly from one institution to another, but it generally falls within a specific range.
Calculating First Class:
The calculation of first-class honours or division typically considers the following factors:
1. Honours Marks: The honours marks are the grades obtained specifically in the honours-level courses or modules. These courses carry more academic rigor and usually contribute a significant portion to the overall degree classification.
2. Pass Subjects: In addition to honours marks, the performance in pass subjects (also known as non-honours subjects or core courses) is taken into account. These subjects provide a broader understanding of the field and contribute to the student's overall knowledge.
3. Weighting: The weighting of honours marks and pass subjects may vary depending on the university's grading system. Some institutions assign more weightage to honours marks, while others give equal importance to both components.
Percentage Requirement:
The specific percentage required for first class or division may differ among universities, but it generally falls within the range of 70% to 75%. This means that a student must obtain an average score of 70%-75% or higher in both honours marks and pass subjects combined.
For example, if a university requires a 75% average for first class, a student must achieve an average of 75% or above in both honours marks and pass subjects. If the student's honours marks average is 80% and the pass subjects average is 70%, they would meet the criteria for first class honours.
It's important to note that some institutions may have additional criteria or requirements for specific honours programs or specializations, such as a minimum grade in a particular subject or a research project. Students should refer to their university's specific regulations and guidelines to determine the exact criteria for first class or division in BSc Hons.