UK student satisfaction hits a 10-year high!
The satisfaction rate for students at UK universities and colleges has hit a 10- year high – with 86 per cent saying they are satisfied overall with their course, in this year’s National Student Survey (NSS).
Satisfaction has either improved since 2013 or stayed the same in each of the seven categories covered by the survey. In particular, teaching, academic support and learning resources h av e all improved in 2014.
Only 7 per cent of students were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with their UK higher education experience in 2014, while 5 per cent were dissatisfied and only 2 per cent were strongly dissatisfied.
‘Record levels of student satisfaction’
Around 321,000 final- year students responded to this year’s survey. A record number of universities and colleges from across England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales took part (156 higher education institutions, 166 further education colleges and 3 private higher education providers).
The results are used by universities, colleges, student unions and others to improve teaching and learning quality, learning resources and academic support – areas which are fundamental to students’ academic experience. They also provide valuable information for prospective students.
Pro f e s s o r M a d e l e i n e Atkins, Chief Executive of HEFCE, said: ‘I’m delighted to see record levels of student satisfaction this year, as well as marked improvements in satisfaction with assessment and feedback over the last decade.
‘The NSS is the largest survey of its kind in the UK. Over the last 10 years it has helped over 2 million students to make their voices heard about the things that matter to them, and has been fundamental to driving change in our universities and colleges. In a period of technological advance, internationalisation and funding reforms, the NSS will continue to enable student views to be heard and to stimulate innovation and excellence in teaching and learning in our universities and colleges.’
Why choose UK higher education?
Over 480,000 foreign students are currently studying at one of the world class universities in the UK. The international recognition and reputation that UK qualifications have is the main reason why the UK qualification are first choice for thousands of foreign students. A UK degree does open doors for students, personal and professional. It is a passport to a better career and a brighter future.
Gain a world- class education: UK higher education offers you inspiring teaching, excellent facilities and a worldclass research environment.
Did you know that….
Four of the world’s top six universities are in the UK
Over 88% of international graduates are satisfied with their UK learning experience, 93% of postgraduate students rated the UK’s quality of teaching positively.
The UK is a world- leading research nation.
54% of the research conducted by UK universities and colleges is either ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’
UK education is all about giving you the inspiration to help you develop your skills, the freedom to be creative, and the support you need to achieve your best.
UK universities and colleges invest in excellent facilities – from libraries, computer and science labs to sports centres, theatres and art studios. Class sizes are restricted to ensure that you have access to equipment and enough time to talk to your tutors and lecturers.
Achieve an internationally recognised qualification: UK higher education qualifications are recognised and respected by employers and academics worldwide.
Prepare for the career of your dreams: UK qualifications are a great boost to your CV and to your earnings. According to the Tracking Inter national Graduate Outcomes survey by BIS, UK- educated international graduates achieve markedly higher average salaries than if they had been educated at home.
Employers are increasingly looking for multilingual graduates with multicultural experience. UK higher education gives you the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, providing an excellent introduction to global business environments. As a result, the QS World University Rankings found that UK graduates are among the most ‘employable’, with employers ranking five UK universities in the global top 10.
UK universities and colleges have strong links with industries. Many courses offer you the option of a year in industry too, which is an excellent way to prepare you for the world of work
Perfect your English language skills: English is widely regarded as the language of inter national business. Studying on a UK course helps you learn the language through your study, friends and everyday life. You will find that your skills improve rapidly, and if you need any additional support, there are lots of English language classes on offer across the UK.
Study what, when and where you want: With thousands of UK higher education courses on offer, you can follow your passions and choose a course that matches your goals and interests. You can choose to study online or on campus, in the UK or even at an overseas campus!
Save time and money: UK undergraduate and postgraduate courses are generally
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shorter than in other countries, helping to keep the cost of tuition fees and living expenses down.
A unique cultural adventure: Studying in the UK is an opportunity to discover the UK’s unique culture, countryside and cities. There’s also lots of adventure on offer, from music festivals and football matches to ancient castles and vibrant nightlife.
Join an international community: In 2012, over 420,000 international students from over 200 nations came to the UK for their higher education, joining over two million local students. The UK is a truly multicultural society, with a great mix of people from different backgrounds. As a student, you’ll get to know people from all over the world and be inspired by many cultures. Many universities and colleges provide international offices and advisers to ensure you feel welcome and are supported throughout your time in UK higher education.
Quality assured: UK universities and colleges are regularly reviewed to ensure high standards of academic education, teaching, accommodation, welfare support and facilities.
For more information visit www.britishcouncil.lk