For you as a student
As a student, you will use different sources covered by copyright during your studies. Here we have collected answers to some frequently asked questions that concern you as a student.
Who owns the copyright to student theses?
The student owns the copyright to the thesis and thus decides on the use of the work. The university may not publish an essay on the Internet, LMS or in any other way without the student's permission. By law, certain student papers must be archived. However, archiving does not affect the student's copyright.
What is Bonus Copyright Access Agreement License?
The Swedish Defence University, like other higher education institutions in the country, has entered into a contractual license agreement for the field of education with Bonus Copyright Access. More information about the agreement and the terms of copying can be found on the Bonus Copyrights Access website. See copying rules below.
» Terms and conditions (in Swedish)
» Copy guide for colleges and universities
A contractual licence refers to an agreement concluded with an organisation representing a number of authors. Through the contractual license, permission is obtained to use the work (copy, scan) in accordance with the terms of the agreement. However, when used outside the terms of the agreement, for example when copying beyond the number of pages allowed, the rightholder must be asked.
The agreement only applies to the teaching situation, for example when presenting a group project. The agreement also does not cover all literature, for example, compulsory course literature is not covered. For copying for private use, see the section below.
What is meant by Creative Commons?
It is allowed to use material posted on the Internet that is under a so-called Creative Commons license. You can find more information about searching for and using Creative Commons-licensed content on the Creative Commons website.
Can I use texts, images, diagrams, etc. that I find on the Internet in an essay or assignment?
Copyright also extends to works posted on the Internet. In order to use the material available on the Internet, the rightholder must have given his permission. Such permission can be obtained in various ways, for example through contractual licenses (Bonus agreements), Creative Commons or that the rightholder is asked.
What applies when copying for private use?
It is permitted to copy for private use one or a few copies of a published work that is subject to copyright. The copies must be intended for yourself, family or friends.
For copying for private use, the model must also be published. The model must also be lawful, i.e. have been made available to the public either with the permission of the rightholder or on the basis of the restrictions contained in copyright.
In the case of literary works, such as textbooks, it is allowed to copy only a limited part of the book, such as a chapter. However, it is allowed to copy a book of limited scope, such as a poem, on a limited number of pages. Otherwise, it is not allowed to copy an entire book.