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[[Image:Syd uni metal.JPG|thumb|right|200px|A University Medal from the [[University of Sydney]].]]
[[File:University medal-1.tif|thumb|right|200px|A University Medal from the [[University of New South Wales]].]]
A '''University Medal''' is one of several different types of awards, bestowed by [[university|universities]] upon outstanding students or members of staff. The usage and status of university medals differ between countries.
A '''University Medal''' is one of several different types of awards, bestowed by [[university|universities]] upon outstanding students or members of staff. The usage and status of university medals differ between countries.



Revision as of 03:17, 23 May 2012

A University Medal from the University of New South Wales.

A University Medal is one of several different types of awards, bestowed by universities upon outstanding students or members of staff. The usage and status of university medals differ between countries.

As award on graduation

Many universities award University Medals to the top undergraduate students upon graduation each year.

Australia

In Australia, the University Medal is usually awarded upon completion of Honours degrees based on academic merit. The criteria for bestowing the University Medal are stringent. The number of medals awarded might also be limited[1]. For example, the University of New South Wales' medal policy states: "it is expected that only in exceptional circumstances would there be more than one Medal for a particular specialisation"[2]. The usual criterion is very high marks across all the subjects undertaken in the 4-year Honours degree. In some universities, the University Medal is treated as a distinct division or class of the Honours degree ("First class Honours and University Medal").

It is rare, but possible, for a student to receive two University Medals, by winning a Medal in each of two undergraduate degrees or majors within a degree. H. V. Evatt, Australian politician and judge, for example, won University Medals in Philosophy and Law from the University of Sydney.

Sri Lanka

In Sri Lanka, Universities award medals, usually named in honor of a senior faculty member at annual convocations for those who have achieved academic merit.

United States

The University Medal is often awarded to the most distinguished undergraduate student upon graduation. In addition to stringent academic criteria, students are also judged on extracurricular activities, publications, and other qualities.[3].

As award for service

In some universities, the University Medal is bestowed upon members of the university for their extraordinary contribution to the University.[4] Such an award is often conferred upon retirement of a staff member.[5]

Notable University Medal winners

See also

References