The University's Governing Documents
The following are key documents that explain the University's purpose and values, its powers and regulations and how decisions are made.
Governance
Learn about how the University is governed and access key information, advice, and guidance from the Governance Office.
Governance framework and structure
Our governance framework is set out in the Charter, Statutes and Ordinances. Read our governing documents, including structure, powers and regulations, how decisions are made, and how we ensure good governance.
The University's governance structure
An overview of our organisational Governance Structure and the Boards and Committees which report into Council, Senate and the University Executive Board.
Guidance on corporate governance
Policies and procedures relating to corporate governance and the Code of Conduct for Council members at the University of Bath.
Council and Senate Joint Scheme of Delegation
The Joint Scheme of Delegation explains the responsibilities that Council has given to committees and officers of the University to act on its behalf.
Code of ethics
Our commitment to sound corporate governance and the highest standards of ethical conduct in all our activities.
Charitable Status
Information that The Office for Students requires the University to make available, including the regulation and governance of the University.
Council
Council is the University’s governing body and has ultimate responsibility for oversight and strategic direction. It has 15 members, with a lay majority from outside the University, bringing independent perspective and expertise from other sectors.
Council terms of reference and membership
The terms of reference and membership for the University Council, including its functions and procedural rules
Council minutes
Council publishes its minutes once they have been approved.
Meeting dates and agenda deadlines for Council
Deadlines for agenda items and supporting papers for University Council meetings.
Standing Orders of Council
The standard operating procedures explain the conduct and responsibilities of Council and its committees.
2025/26 Council Members' Register of Interests
Register of Members' Interests for 2025/26.
Senate
Senate is the principal body responsible for the regulation and direction of the University’s academic activities, including academic standards and quality. Its membership and duties are set out in Sections 11 and 12 of the Statutes.
Senate terms of reference and membership
The terms of reference and membership for the University Senate, including its functions and procedural rules.
Senate minutes
The official minutes from University Senate meetings since the 2018/19 academic year.
Meeting dates and agenda deadlines for Senate
Deadlines for agenda items and supporting papers for University Senate meetings.
Standing Orders of Senate
The standard operating procedures explain the conduct and responsibilities of Senate and its committees.
Member of Senate Role Description
Please read the role description for a member of Senate.
University Executive Board
The University Executive Board (UEB) advises the Vice-Chancellor and President and supports the leadership and management of the University, including the delivery of its strategy and operations.
University Executive Board terms of reference
The terms of reference for the University Executive Board, including its primary responsibilities.
University Executive Board
The University Executive Board is advisory to the Vice-Chancellor and President.
University Executive Board meeting dates
University Executive Board meeting dates for 2025/26.
Associated statutory committees and boards
Council, Senate and the University Executive Board are supported by a framework of committees and boards, established to carry out detailed work, exercise delegated authority and provide assurance within defined areas of responsibility.
Sub Committees
A list of the University's statutory bodies and committees.
Boards of Studies
The Faculty, School and Doctoral Boards of Studies are responsible to Senate for key academic functions
Standing orders of Statutory Bodies
The Standing Orders set out standard operating procedures for key university bodies.
Court
We are a formal body, representing the University's constituencies, and can make representations to Council on any matter affecting the University.
Academic Assembly
The Academic Assembly is a statutory body of the University. It may discuss opinions on any matter relating to the University and submit resolutions to Senate.
Leadership Forum meetings
Consultative discussion forum for Heads of Department, Associate Deans and Directors of Professional Services.
Information and guidance for staff
The Governance team provides a range of advice and guidance for staff.
Governance Team
The Governance Team supports the work of the University's Council, Senate, Executive and their committees.
Committee Report Templates
Please download the accessible format templates for use when submitting reports to UEB, Council, Senate and their committees.
Policy framework
This document details the University's policy framework.
University Policy Index
Not all policies are published online. If you cannot find a policy online, please contact the relevant policy owner or Department.
Servicing Committees
What a committee secretary should do before, during and after formal and informal meetings, such as sending out papers, writing minutes and publishing reports.
Public Interest Disclosure (whistleblowing)
Sets out the procedures for public interest disclosure (whistleblowing) and provides guidance for raising concerns that are in the public interest
Governance documents for the Students' Union
View the governance and code of practice for the University's Students' Union.
Code of Practice for the Students' Union (SU)
The Code of Practice provides information on the responsibilities of the Students' Union
Students' Union (SU) governance
Read The SU's policies and learn who is on the board of trustees.