New university charter to identify ‘ low- value’ degrees
UNIVERSITIES in England will create a charter to ensure that institutions take a consistent and transparent approach to identifying and improving potentially low- quality courses.
It comes amid concerns from ministers that some university courses have little demand from the labour market.
Universities UK ( UUK), an organisation which represents university vice- chancellors, will publish guidance on assessing the value of degrees for institutions to follow.
The charter, which is being led by a UUK advisory group, will focus on demonstrating the sector’s commitment to transparency in processes to tackle low- value courses through a statement of intent.
Universities which take rapid action to address issues with low- value or low- quality courses will be highlighted as best practice as part of the charter.
It comes after Universities Minister Michelle Donelan said that for decades too many young people have been recruited onto courses that “do nothing to improve their life chances or help with their career goals.”
In a speech to the higher education sector in July, she urged universities not to spend widening access funds on “marketing” to get students through the door – but instead to focus on ensuring graduates secure jobs.
In the longer term, universities will also consider options for external assurance or independent review to make their processes stronger.
Professor Julia Buckingham, president of UUK, said: “Our member universities’ core purpose is to maximise their positive impact for students and the public both in the UK and globally through teaching, research and scholarship.
“We are led by our members and act on behalf of universities.
“The overwhelming majority of courses are high quality and offer good value for students, but we want to address concerns that some could deliver more for students, taxpayers and employers.
“The development of this charter will help universities take consistent and more transparent approaches in tackling low- quality or lowvalue courses.”
Prof Buckingham added: The public needs full confidence in the value and quality of a UK university degree and the charter will demonstrate universities’ commitment to constant improvement.”