Classifying courses
The purpose of classification is to ensure that the amount of SAC[1] funding we provide to support Investment Plans reflects the agreed volume and mix of provision appropriately. For example a course in horticulture is classified #01, and in combination with projected student volume (EFTS) will support an amount of funding provided under an Investment Plan.
In some cases, the classification also depends on the qualification level.
When classifying courses you must ensure that at least 90% of the content or subject matter fits into the classification you have assigned (Rule SAC061[2]).
TEOs[3] should not reduce the size of courses to less than 0.1 EFTS[4] to meet the 90% rule under Rule SAC061[5], which explains the requirements for course classification.
If possible, TEOs should classify courses well in advance of enrolling learners as under Rule SAC062[6] we give the final approval of all course classifications.
TEOs should select the correct classification carefully according to the following points:
- TEOs should consider the notes below each classification as these set out the information required for the decision-making process
- It is the content of the course, not the course name, that determines the classification. For example the appropriate classification of a course called Environmental Science may be #01, #03 or #18, depending on the course content.
- We recommend that the name of the course correctly describes the major content of the course
- TEOs with doubts about an appropriate classification should contact us for advice.