Million Plus

The university think tank million+ has welcomed the publication by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) of reports into the recruitment and selection of postgraduate research students in England together with an international comparison of postgraduate education. The think-tank has called for the next government to respond by funding 50,000 additional postgraduate places.

Pam Tatlow, Chief Executive of the university think-tank million+, said:

“These reports confirm that being able to study for a postgraduate qualification is important to individuals. However compared to other countries, Britain is missing a trick and still has no clear strategy to promote postgraduate study which has been undermined in England by the 2012 HE reforms and by the economic downturn.

“The majority of people study for a postgraduate qualification on a part-time basis in their late twenties and thirties. Any strategy must help people with a first degree step back onto the qualifications ladder when they are employed, looking to re-enter the workforce or need to change career.

“Proceeds from the sale of the student loan book should be reinvested in 50,000 additional postgraduate places linked with professional, industry and public-service based programmes including in the creative industries. This would provide more opportunities for individuals but also add value to businesses and support innovation”.

ENDS

Notes to Editors
1. For further information or to arrange an interview, contact Rochelle Owusu- Antwi, Press and Communications Officer, million+ on 020 7717 1658 / 07527 336 795 or email press@millionplus.ac.uk.
2. million+ is a leading university think-tank. More information can be found at www.millionplus.ac.uk.
3. million’s report Smarter Regions Smarter Britain (March 2014) includes a recommendation that the government should fund additional postgraduate places to support regional growth.