Charter and statutes

New charter and statutes

The University Charter and Statutes were substantially revised in 2017/18. The new versions were approved by the Privy Council on 12 June 2019 to come into immediate effect. These can be accessed below; their supporting ordinances and regulations are available on the next page.

Heriot-Watt University originally received its Charter in 1966.

Overview

The Charter and Statutes provide part of the regulatory framework for the University and its staff and students.

The Charter

The Charter defines the objects, powers, officers and statutory bodies of the University. It defines the University as a teaching, research and examining body and includes such fundamental powers as those of awarding degrees.

Charter of the University

The Statutes

The Statutes prescribe details concerning the appointment, powers, duties and conditions of service of officers and members of staff of the University, the membership and functions of statutory bodies (including the Court and the Senate), the approval of the Ordinances and Regulations, and other provisions.

Statutes of the University

Archived versions

You can also view the previous versions of our Charter (archived version) and Statutes (archived version).

Further information:

Any questions about the Charter and Statutes should be directed to Marc A Quinn, Head of Policy and Governance (​​M.A.Quinn@hw.ac.uk), or Mark Hamid, Senior Governance Officer (M.Hamid@hw.ac.uk).