Undergraduate degree classifications in the UK

A degree classification is an overall grade awarded to a student who has undertaken a university degree. This is how a student’s performance is summarised and a way of indicating the level of achievement that they have attained. 

There is a different grading system used for bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees and doctorates.  Here are the different grade classifications for an undergraduate degree. 

Undergraduate degree classifications

First-class honours (1st): This is the highest degree classification available to students. It is awarded to students who achieve an overall average mark of 70% or above.

Upper second-class honours (2:1): The second-highest degree classification and is awarded to students who achieve an overall average mark of between 60% and 69%.

Lower second-class honours (2:2): This is the third-highest degree classification and is awarded to students who achieve an overall average mark of between 50% and 59%.

Third-class honours (3rd): This is the lowest honours degree classification and is awarded to students who achieve an overall average mark of between 40% and 49%.

Ordinary degree (also known as a pass degree): An ordinary degree is awarded to students who do not achieve a high enough average mark to receive an honours degree, but still pass their degree program.

How is a student’s degree classification calculated?

A degree classification in the UK is typically calculated based on a weighted average of a student’s grades across all of their assessed modules or courses. Each module or course that a student takes during their degree program is assigned a certain number of credits, which reflect the amount of time and effort required to complete it. For example, a typical module might be worth 20 or 30 credits. 

For each module, the student’s grade or mark is multiplied by the credit weighting of that module, to give a weighted mark. The sum of all the weighted marks is then divided by the total number of credits studied, to give an overall average mark.

However, the exact method of calculating a degree classification can vary depending on the specific course and institution. Some universities may use slightly different methods of calculation, and may also take into account other factors such as a student’s performance in their final year or on specific modules. Additionally, some degree programs may have different weightings for certain modules or assessment methods, such as exams, essays, or practical work.

Your university’s assessment policies and guidelines will be able to explain how degree classifications are calculated. This information is typically available on the university website or student handbook.  

Follow us on Twitter @BeInTheKnow_UK