Universities UK has responded to a report published today, examining the postgraduate sector. This follows the review led by Professor Adrian Smith, Director General of Science and Research in the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, and five senior figures from higher education and business.
Professor Steve Smith, President of Universities UK said: “As this report shows, the high-level skills of postgraduates and the capabilities they bring to business and the public sector, is vital to the UK’s economic future. Essentially, they also form the next generation of talent driving excellence in our research base. Universities UK last year produced two reports focusing on promoting the UK doctorate and taught postgraduate study, and we are pleased to see that the Review team has taken these on board.
“The report rightly recognises the key role universities play in this area, by emphasising the need to support and sustain postgraduate provision in UK universities, and for the first time, there is also a focus on issues relating to post graduate taught programmes. We look forward to working with the sector to take forward the recommendations.
“We support the emphasis on excellence in postgraduate researcher training and would highlight the need to explore possible collaborative ventures to sustain capacity and capability.
“Crucially, the report also examines the promotion of the UK postgraduate provision overseas. It is essential that the UK remains an attractive option internationally, and we are glad to see recognition of the real barriers posed by the visa system. The recently announced Newton Scholarship Scheme is a very positive step in going some way to address the reduction in international scholarships and awards, and will help to ensure that international talent will continue to provide a vital contribution to our eminent research base.”
Notes
- The report, One Step Beyond: Making the most of postgraduate education is available online.
- More information on Universities UK’s report, Promoting the UK doctorate: opportunities and challenges, is available.
- More information on Universities UK’s report, Taught postgraduate students: market trends and opportunities, is available.