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Introduction to Academic Reps
An Academic Representative — often called an Academic Rep or Student Rep — is a student elected to represent academic interests within a course, department, or faculty. Reps play a key role in shaping the student experience at UCL: gathering student opinions, attending Student Partnership Committees, and working with staff to make real improvements to teaching and learning.
On this page, you'll find everything you need to know about Academic Reps.
The Students' Union has a dedicated team supporting Academic Reps. If you have any questions, email us at [email protected].
- What are the different types of Academic Rep?
The Students' Union has several types of Academic Rep, working at course, department, and faculty level. While they share a common goal of representing students and improving the academic experience — each role has a slightly different focus.
- How do I become an Academic Rep?
Course, Research, and Lead Department Reps: Speak to your programme or course leader to express your interest. They'll be able to explain the application or selection process for your department.
Faculty Reps: Faculty Reps are chosen through our Rep Elections, held every October. Full details on how to stand can be found here.
- What support is available for Academic Reps?
As an Academic Rep, you're not on your own — there's a range of support to help you succeed in the role:
A dedicated Students' Union team, on hand to answer questions and support you throughout the year. Get in touch at [email protected]
Dedicated support within your department and faculty, so you have people close to your course who understand your context.
Handovers from previous Reps, giving you valuable insight and practical tips on how to succeed in the role.
Training to build the skills and confidence you need to represent students effectively.
A dedicated Moodle page, packed with helpful resources, plus a mandatory online training module to complete. You can access this here.
- Tell me more about Reward and Recognition.
Being an Academic Rep isn't just about giving back — it's a great opportunity to grow. Alongside developing key skills such as negotiation, influencing, and public speaking, you'll also benefit from:
A LinkedIn Recommendation, awarded for successfully completing the online Rep Training, completing your handover, and attending your meetings.
Access to a Leadership Development Programme run by the Students' Union.
Bespoke career events, exclusively for Reps.
Exclusive socials, to connect with other members of the Reps team.
Bespoke training, designed to support you in the role.
The chance to be nominated for Academic Rep of the Month.
The chance to be nominated for Academic Rep of the Year, awarded at the UCL Education Awards.
- Where do I go if I have further questions?
If you have any further questions, please email us at [email protected].