Universities UK response to Hepi report on part-time higher education

Dame Julia Goodfellow, President of Universities UK, said: “HEPI’s report today shows that part time study matters – to students, universities and to the wider economy. Universities have a crucial role in supporting lifelong learning by providing opportunities for a diverse student population.

“In our submission to the Comprehensive Spending Review, Universities UK calls for government to explore the feasibility of policy options to address the decline in part-time student numbers. These options include equity in maintenance support for part-time students, reviewing eligibility for loans, and incentives for employer-funded places. We have also pointed out that eligibility criteria on age and intensity of study for the Government’s proposed system of postgraduate taught loans are problematic and needs revision.   

“Universities are continuing to develop and provide innovative and flexible  methods of delivery to meet the needs of students, businesses and the economy. It is clear that government must also play its part if the long-term skills needs of the UK are to be met.”