The Sheffield HEAR: Recognising the whole student experience
University of Sheffield students acquire a wide range of learning experiences, achieving not only academically, but also through extra-curricular activities. The University is committed to recognising the breadth of this student experience. From September 2012, all incoming undergraduate students will therefore receive a new kind of degree transcript to provide them with a more comprehensive record of their university career: the Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR).
The HEAR has two functions:
1. It is a formal exit document that will be issued at the point of graduation, alongside the degree certificate. One of its key purposes is to enhance employability, by officially recognising a broad set of university achievements - including extra-curricular activities and awards.
Official snapshots of the HEAR ('interim' HEARs) will also be issued to undergraduates at agreed points prior to graduation, to assist students as they begin to apply for jobs, internships or further study.
2. It is a formative document, which will be available electronically via MUSE, for both students and staff. This can be used to help students identify and articulate their achievements, skills and experiences, and plan for their personal development more holistically.
Please note that the HEAR is only applicable to undergraduates who are studying for a defined qualification at the University of Sheffield. Incoming Study Abroad and Erasmus students will not therefore receive a HEAR. However, Study Abroad and Erasmus students will be able to access their results online in the same way as all other undergraduate students, and will also, at a later point, be issued with an official statement of results confirming their achievements during their period of study at Sheffield.