Skip to SearchSkip to ContentSkip to Footer
Home > Policy and analysis > Reports > Degree classification: statement of intent

Degree classification: statement of intent


The UK higher education sector is committed to protecting the value of UK degrees. This statement represents that commitment. 


The statement of intent calls on providers to meet four specific commitments:

  • Ensure assessments continue to stretch and challenge students
  • Review and explain how final degree classifications are calculated
  • Support and strengthen the external examiners system
  • Review and publish data and analysis on students’ degree outcomes
It is signed by sector representative groups and endorsed by the UK Standing Committee for Quality Assessment.

This statement builds on the findings and recommendations of the research report ‘Degree classification: transparent, consistent and fair academic standards’ and the outcomes of the  associated consultation presented in ‘Transparency, reliability and fairness in degree classification: consultation report’.

Degree classification consultation

The UK Standing Committee for Quality Assessment (UKSCQA) launched a consultation in November 2018 on proposals for higher education providers in the UK to develop and adopt a sector-wide statement of intent to protect the value of qualifications over time.

The consultation was designed to gather views on the proposed statement, including its potential implementation in each of the UK nations, and where there was need for refinement and/or clarity. 

A summary of the consultation analysis of the consultation, Degree Classification: transparent, consistent and fair academic standards - consultation analysis has been published alongside the statement of intent. 





News

Universities UK response to government’s support package for UK research jobs

27 June 2020
​The UK government has announced a support package to give greater job protection for researchers, scientists and technicians working at UK universities during coronavirus (COVID-19).
Graduates at a graduation ceremony

Supporting graduates: The Class of 2020

25 June 2020
​Paid internships should be offered to the graduate class of 2020 to support their employment prospects and to help businesses get back on their feet following the Covid-19 lockdown.

Blog

The careers services team at Royal Holloway, University of London

How university careers services are supporting graduates through Covid-19

25 June 2020
Gabi Binnie from AGCAS explains how university careers services moved their provision online almost overnight following lockdown, in order to ensure students and graduates continue to be supported.
Girl with laptop by window

Embracing the future of learning and teaching

5 June 2020
The university sector's response to COVID-19 has brought about an unprecedented opportunity to reshape the higher education experience for staff and students, says Jisc Chief Executive Paul Feldman.