Working Together Contents Why Choose NCUK?

Unique INTRODUCING NCUK We are a unique organisation because we were founded by page 3 – 4 eleven leading UK universities. Our programmes are developed NCUK UNIVERSITIES UNIVERSITY in partnership with these universities and are quality assured A WORLD OF CHOICE OF BRADFORD by them. OUR PROGRAMMES Guarantee page 5 – 27 If your students pass their NCUK programme, we guarantee to place them in one of the NCUK Universities. The entry criteria for each of our universities varies, so where your THE UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF HUDDERSFIELD OF LEEDS students are placed will depend on how well they do in their OUR UNIVERSITIES exams. The better they perform, the greater chance of getting a place at their first choice university. page 28 – 32

Internationally Recognised Our programmes are recognised throughout the UK and are BECOME A PARTNER LEEDS BECKETT THE UNIVERSITY widely accepted globally which means your students have page 33 – 42 a world of choice on successful completion.

THE NCUK INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION YEAR (IFY) LIVERPOOL JOHN UNIVERSITY MOORES IS DEEMED COMPARABLE TO GCE A LEVELS BY NARIC

of students placed to Universities MANCHESTER UNIVERSITY METROPOLITAN

placed at their first 80% choice of university

UNIVERSITY SHEFFIELD HALLAM OF SHEFFIELD UNIVERSITY of former IFY students

achieved a 2:2 or higher

1 2 Introducing NCUK

NCUK was founded by eleven leading UK universities. We work in partnership with them to provide quality pathway programmes for international students.

In 1987, a number of Northern Universities were approached NCUK achieves success and longevity thanks to the hard work by the Malaysian Government to help place students into UK and dedication of our Delivery Partners – groups and individuals higher education. The result of this meeting was the creation of who are at the core of our business. Education is our passion the ‘The Northern Consortium’, a registered charity, to provide and our expertise. both academic programmes and university placement services for international students. Northern Consortium UK Limited If you share our passion, contact us to join our unique network. (NCUK) is the registered trading arm owned by the Charity*. e: [email protected] NCUK has a long and proud history as a leader in the w: corporate.ncuk.ac.uk provision of preparatory programmes for university study. t: @NCUKTogether Since 1987, NCUK has expanded across four continents and attracts students from over 50 nationalities every year. Since NCUK was established, we have helped over 23,500 young people to gain a place at one of our university partners. Thanks to the quality of our academic programmes, they have achieved success both in their university studies and, onwards, in their careers. OVER ENROLMENTS OF NCUK STUDENTS PLACED OVER ON UK DEGREES SINCE 1987 STUDENTS EVERY YEAR

*The Northern Consortium and Northern Consortium UK Limited

The Northern Consortium is a registered charity listed in the United Kingdom at Companies House (Company No. 02788226). Northern Consortium UK Limited (referred to as NCUK) was founded as the trading arm of the Northern Consortium registered charity and is also listed at Companies House (Company No. 04842064). 3 4 Our Programmes

We offer a range of pathway programmes that provide your NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) students with the ideal route to further study in the UK.

Our programmes are written in partnership with the NCUK The NCUK International Foundation Year offers a wide variety of pathways to UK degree programmes via a flexible combination Universities and are quality assured to the highest standards. of academic modules. We can offer expert guidance on the best choice of subject areas for your centre to meet the needs of your students. They will choose three modules depending on their desired degree programme. NCUK programmes can be supported by our unique English for Academic Purposes (EAP) module which gives your students NCUK recently received formal recognition from NARIC (the National Recognition Information Centre) that our International the study and language skills they need to succeed on a degree Foundation Year, as a university entrance qualification, is comparable to UK A-Levels. taught in English. Not only does the EAP module test the level of your students’ English, it also adds value to their wider academic studies and skills development.

Our pathway programmes allow students to gain the skills and qualifications needed to enter university. We have been working with international students in partnership with the NCUK Universities since 1987.

Furthermore, to help your students make that choice, our student and partner support system ‘Welcome’ provides a personalised degree search tailored to your students’ grades and aspirations. Your students can choose the programme and university that is right for them, all from one online resource.

We can guarantee students entry on over 3,000

at leading universities in the United Kingdom

5 6 NCUK International Foundation Year Standard Routes

International Foundation Programme in Business & Humanities In 2013/14, NCUK International Foundation Year students had The most popular routes are to Business degrees. The preferred an average EAP Pass Rate of combination of modules is:

• Economics, Business Studies and either Society & Politics or Mathematics

The choice of modules you offer should be based on the Mathematical ability and degree aspirations of your students. If your students are more interested in Humanities subjects such as Sociology, International Relations or Philosophy then students should take Society & Politics. If your students are interested in progressing to Accounting and Finance and Economics related courses then students should study the Mathematics module.

International Foundation Programme in Science & Engineering NCUK graduates began studying Engineering - related degrees The most popular routes are to Engineering or Physical at UK universities in 2014/15 Sciences degrees. The preferred combination of modules is:

• Maths, Physics and either Further Maths or Chemistry

Chemistry must be selected if the student wishes to study “The class size is much smaller on the NCUK Chemistry at university, and is also recommended for progression International Foundation Year and that is a to Chemical Engineering or Petroleum Engineering degrees. big advantage. You can ask the teacher what For students who wish to study subjects relating to Life Sciences, you don’t understand and they can give you the preferred combination of subjects is: more attention.” • Chemistry, Biology and either Maths or Physics JIAWEI WANG NCUK IFY Student - Business and Humanities - WHBC Wuhan - 2013 University of Manchester (2013–present) BAEcon Accounting and Finance

7 8 NCUK International Foundation Year Subject Modules

We offer a variety of English Language and Study Skills English for Academic Purposes (EAP) There are a few considerations that you need to take into account when deciding which modules to offer: modules to be studied alongside the subject modules Designed for students who are not native English speakers. on the IFY programme. • What courses will your students want to progress to when they complete the IFY? EAP for Proficient Users (EAPPU) These modules aim to improve students’ English language levels • What facilities do you have to deliver the modules? Designed for students who have either previously studied and provide an acceptable English language qualification for • How many students will you have on each possible stream and is it cost effective to run the stream? entry to a UK university without the expense of an IELTS or in English throughout their education but have an English TOEFL test. It also adds valuable study skills experience for the language qualification that is not accepted for UK visa purposes. When selecting your delivery modules, it is important to maximise the progression opportunities for your students. students. In general, this makes students more prepared for their future academic studies than a test preparation programme. Research and Communication Skills (RCS) The Subject Modules your students can choose from are as follows: Designed for students who already possess a relevant A number of options (listed to the right) are available for qualification accepted by universities as proof of English. The • Mathematics Business • Physics students with different English language abilities. programme provides essential preparation for university study. • Mathematics Engineering • Business Studies • Mathematics Science *NEW* • Economics ALL OF OUR UNIVERSITY PARTNERS • Further Mathematics • Society and Politics • Biology • International Relations accept EAP without the need of IELTS or TOEFL • Chemistry • Government and Politics (UK centres only)

NCUK can develop new modules to meet specific market demands. Our Business Development team would be happy to discuss this with you.

Programme Information

Number of modules Exams and coursework Three subject modules plus EAP/EAPPU/RCS. The split of coursework and examination is 30% coursework and 70% examination. Final examinations are set by NCUK. Teaching timetable Coursework is set locally by the Delivery Partner according Two semesters each containing 14 teaching weeks and to guidelines in the relevant module syllabus and is subject an assessment week. (This can be adapted to suit your needs) to approval by NCUK.

Minimum teaching contact hours per-week All assessments (coursework and examinations) are marked 18 hours plus self-study. locally by the Delivery Partner. NCUK moderates all assessments. The marks are finalised at the NCUK Examination Board. Entry requirements Students are normally eligible if they have successfully completed NCUK awards the final certificate on successful completion. at least 12 years study in their home country. Progression Specific entry requirements can be found on our website. A choice of nearly 4,000 degree programmes at the NCUK Universities or access to universities worldwide. www.ncuk.ac.uk/programmes/entry-requirements

9 10 NCUK International Foundation Year Student Success Exceptions & Special Cases

There are a number of university programmes that have special requirements. Some may require particular combinations of subjects, others need additional evidence and some may not be accessible from the NCUK IFY. More details follow below.

Architecture Pharmacy Progression to programmes in Architecture is possible from Progression to Pharmacy programmes from the NCUK IFY an NCUK IFY and in principle, students can study any combination is possible. The preferred subject combination is Chemistry, of modules. However it is essential that aspiring Architecture Biology and Maths. students produce a portfolio of design work, in addition to the three IFY modules, to support their application. NCUK provides Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing guidance on how to produce this portfolio and can support The NCUK IFY is not recommended for progression to these students in making strong and timely applications to Architecture. programmes. Progression to these programmes for international students is extremely difficult. The UK’s system of training doctors Law has very tight restrictions on the numbers of non-Home/EU Progression to programmes in Law is possible from an NCUK students and, where places are available, they are often reserved IFY, although places at Russell Group universities are very for students who are part of a compact/sponsorship arrangement competitive. Combinations in Business and Humanities modules between universities and foreign governments. Please note are recommended, especially Society and Politics. Maths is not that the restrictions are not connected with the academic required but may have some benefits in demonstrating breadth recognition of the NCUK IFY programme and the restrictions of ability and analytical skills to admissions tutors. also apply to students who have studied similar programmes (including A levels).

The NCUK IFY offers a fantastic range of progression routes to top UK universities. Since 1987, NCUK students have experienced a wide range of success, both academically and in their future careers. Here are some of the highlights from recent years.

Over 92% of NCUK students in 2013/14 chose to study Just under 80% of South Korean NCUK students gained their degree at an NCUK University. a place at one of NCUK’s Russell Group universities.

A number of former NCUK students have gained places NCUK alumni also go on to be successful in their careers at leading universities outside of NCUK. In recent years, in global brands such as Chanel, Tata Steel and KPMG. this has included the University of Cambridge, the One of our students even stood in the recent UK elections University of Edinburgh and the University of Warwick. as a potential Parliamentary candidate.

11 12 NCUK International Year One

The NCUK International Year One (IYOne) is typically delivered Last year, students from over over an academic year. It can be adapted to be delivered over periods as short as six months and as long as two years.

The programme offers a number of study options for students FIFTY with different English language skills and qualifications. Students can enter the programme with a minimum of IELTS level 5.5 or equivalent. Alternatively, students can take an English Language test provided by NCUK prior to enrolment. Students with studied an NCUK programme English as a second language will typically study the English for Academic Purposes module alongside their subject modules. The English for Academic Purposes module provides students with an English Language qualification recognised by the NCUK Universities for visa purposes, so an IELTS test is not necessary.

Further information can be found on the following pages.

“NCUK have been very supportive, guiding me whenever I have had questions. The lecturers are always available on the NCUK course.” RYAN HOCK HENG CHEE NCUK IYOne Student - Business Management - INTO Manchester 2013 (2013–present) BSc Economics & Finance

13 14 NCUK International Year One in Business

The International Year One in Business has three possible routes for your students.

• Accounting & Finance • Business Management • Events Management

The modules your students study can be found in the tables below:

SEMESTER 1

Modules Accounting & Finance Business Management Events Management

Business Economics Business Skills Organisational Behaviour Financial Accounting Introduction to the Events Industry

SEMESTER 2

Modules Accounting & Finance Business Management Events Management

Management Themes and Case Studies Marketing Advanced Business Economics Managing Events Management Accounting Business Statistics Business Finance Financial Reporting

15 16 Programme Information

Number of modules Eight modules, four per semester.

Teaching timetable Two semesters each containing 14 teaching weeks and an assessment week. (This can be adapted to suit your needs)

Minimum teaching contact hours per-week 20 hours plus self-study. A further 6 hours if EAP is taught.

Entry requirements Entry requirements for a number of countries can be found on our website.

www.ncuk.ac.uk/programmes/entry-requirements

Exams and coursework The split of coursework and examination varies by module but is at least 60% examination.

Coursework and final examinations are set by NCUK. All assessments (coursework and examinations) are marked locally by the Delivery Partner. NCUK moderates all assessments. The marks are finalised at the NCUK Examination Board. of our International Year One students achieve a first or NCUK awards the final certificate on successful completion. second class degree when they graduate from university Progression 80% Year Two of a related Business degree at an NCUK University.

17 18 NCUK International Year One in Engineering

The International Year One in Engineering currently has three possible routes for your students. The modules your students can study can be found in the tables below:

• Electrical & Electronic Engineering • Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering • Civil Engineering

SEMESTER 1

Modules Electrical & Electronic Mechanical & Manufacturing Civil

Engineering Mathematics 1 Circuit Principles 1 Drawing and Design Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Electronic Engineering Materials Engineering Applications, Practice and Design Fluid Mechanics Introduction to Computer Programming Mechanical Principles Geotechnics SEMESTER 2

Modules Electrical & Electronic Mechanical & Manufacturing Civil

“I wanted to spend more time preparing for Engineering Mathematics 2 overseas study and the NCUK International Analogue Electronics Circuit Principles 2 Year One programme at SBC allowed me to Digital System Design do this.” Energy Transport and RUI YANG Conversion Dynamics NCUK IYOne Student - Engineering - SBC China 2013 Materials and Manufacture (2013–present) BEng Mechanical Engineering Mechanics of Materials and Structures Thermodynamics Civil Engineering Materials Surveying EAP (optional)

19 20 “During the last 25 years, over 1,600 students have progressed from NCUK programmes to study at the University of Leeds and are consistently well-prepared and well-qualified for study with us.”

JACQUI BROWN Head of the International Office; University of Leeds

21 22 Programme Information

Number of modules Ten modules, five per semester.

Teaching timetable Two semesters each containing 14 teaching weeks and an assessment week.(This can be adapted to suit your needs)

Minimum teaching contact hours per-week 20 hours plus self-study. A further 6 hours if EAP is taught.

Entry requirements Entry requirements for a number of countries can be found on our website:

www.ncuk.ac.uk/programmes/entry-requirements

Exams and coursework The split of coursework and examination varies by module but is at least 60% examination.

Coursework and final examinations are set by NCUK. All assessments (coursework and examinations) are marked locally by the Delivery Partner. NCUK moderates all assessments. The marks are finalised at the NCUK Examination Board.

NCUK awards the final certificate on successful completion.

Progression Year Two of a related Engineering degree at an NCUK University.

“It was good to study in Manchester and get familiar with the city and the university. I gained experience of UK culture prior to starting university.” MANSI SINGH NCUK IFY Student - Business & Humanities - INTO Manchester 2013 University of Manchester (2013–present) LLB Law

23 24 NCUK Pre-Masters Programme (PMP)

Like the IFY, the Pre-Masters Programme (PMP) offers flexible delivery over a number of different time periods and allows students to enter with different English language levels and prior qualifications.

Students will study the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) module alongside Research Methods and a module in Management. The Management module is used primarily as a tool for students to practise the research and study skills learned in the Research Methods module. All students will complete a small scale research project to allow them to practise the skills required to complete a dissertation at university.

PMP Route A Designed for students with an English language level of IELTS 5.0 or equivalent.The programme is taught over three nine week terms, with 17 hours of directed study per week.

PMP Route B Designed for students with an English language level of IELTS 5.5 or equivalent. The programme is taught over two nine week terms, with 20 hours of directed study per week.

PMP Route C Designed for students with research or project experience gained in a previous qualification and IELTS 5.5.

In 2014, the NCUK Pre-Masters “On the NCUK Pre-Masters programme I gained Programme had a world wide experience of writing through research methods and I learned about plagiarism and citing 91% references.”

ALYONA AFONINA NCUK PMP Student - Management - INTO Manchester 2013 University of Manchester (2013–present) MSc Marketing

25 26 Our Universities

Programme Outline NCUK Universities

& Entry Requirements Working with the eleven NCUK Universities, we can offer NCUK students have a choice of over 3,000 degree courses students a wide range of subject areas, taught by leading within the eleven NCUK Universities. Over 1,000 NCUK The PMP is delivered over different timescales. Each have professionals in their fields. foundation graduates progress each year to an NCUK different assessments and different entry requirements. The University. Of those, over half progressed onto Business and table below summarises these aspects of the programmes. • Four are part of the prestigious Russell Group Administration related degrees, including 120 to the University of universities of Manchester. Nearly 200 NCUK students also progressed All students are assessed on EAP and a module called • Four are ranked in the ‘Top 200’ in the Times onto Engineering related degrees, including 38 students going ‘Research Methods’ which prepares international students for Higher Education World University Rankings onto study at the University of Leeds and 31 to the University sourcing and evaluating information from literature and the of Sheffield. Both institutions ranked as a Times Higher web; qualitative and quantitative research methods; research • Five rank in the Guardian ‘Top 25’ for teaching in ‘Top 100’ world institution for Engineering and Technology. project planning; manipulating and analysing data; intellectual the field of Electronic and Electrical Engineering property conventions. The assessment of this Research Methods • Four are in the ‘Top 25’ for Accounting and Finance module differs for the PMP due to its shorter length.

NB: Students with a UK undergraduate degree cannot be admitted to the PMP. NCUK universities also boast prestigious Times Higher Education winners

2 011 2012 2013 2014 University of Sheffield University of Huddersfield University of Huddersfield University of Salford University of the Year Entrepreneurial University of the Year Business School of the Year University of the Year

Programme Route A Route B Route C

Programme Outline

Length 9 Months 6 Months 3 Months

English Assessment EAP EAP EAP

Entry Requirements

English IELTS 5.0 IELTS 5.5 IELTS 5.5

Academic A degree or 3 year diploma A degree from A degree from from a recognised institution a recognised institution a recognised institution

27 28 NCUK Universities

Globally unique approach to graduate skills development NCUK is a unique organisation, founded and work-related learning in 1987 by the following leading UK universities Launched the UK’s first Sports Science degree 41st in the world, 5th in the UK and 8th in Europe (Academic Ranking of World Universities 2013) Pharmacy School is one of the oldest in the UK and A world top 100 university (QS World University Rankings 2013) renowned for producing industry-ready graduates A distinguished history in research, innovation and enterprise over 180 years A UK top 10 research institution (RAE 2008) 25 Nobel Prizewinners among former and current staff A vibrant and international university with more than 30,000 and students students from over 145 countries

Top 20 in the UK for graduate level employment (The Sunday Times University Guide 2013)

In an elite group of just 58 business schools in the world to hold the ‘Triple Crown’ accreditation of Equis, AMBA A history of producing work-ready graduates & AACSB Voted best UK university for student experience A diverse community of more than 14,000 students from (Guardian University Awards 2013) Awarded Times Higher Education Business School of the over 130 countries One of the largest and most popular universities in the UK Year 2014 World-class facilities following a extensive programme More than £100 million invested in the campus by 2015-16 of investment Over 75% of degrees offer work or study exchange placements

1,000s of paid placement opportunities with first class Over 30 undergraduate and postgraduate courses taught employers every year at MediaCity UK

Awarded Times Higher Education University of the Year 2013 A research-led institution with more than 6,000 international Awarded 2 Queens Awards – one for enterprise promotion One of the UK’s leading new universities and strong business students from 116 countries and one for international trade A Russell Group university rated in the world’s top 1% for and industry links internationally recognised research An overall satisfaction score of 93% for the third year running One of the top 10 providers of work placement courses One of the largest providers of placements in the UK (NSS 2014) in the UK Student to staff ratio is the 9th best in the UK Placed 6th for research quality and volume compared with all Partnered with world leaders in industry including Boeing, Over 6,000 international students on campus other modern universities (RAE 2008) Rolls Royce, Unilever, AstraZeneca, GSK and Siemens

29 30 University Progression (2013/14)

NCUK Partner Universities Other Leading Universities NCUK has a range of high quality progression routes, these include seven universities in the Top 200 of the Times Higher of NCUK students achieved As well as the eleven NCUK Universities, we work with six Outside of the 17 NCUK Universities and Partner Universities, Education World University Rankings 2014-2015. Last year, students a place at their 1st or NCUK Partner Universities which offer an additional 1,700 NCUK’s programmes are also accepted at a number of other were placed onto 408 unique degree courses – though over 2nd choice university degree courses for students. They are: UK and international institutions. These institutions include 3,000 options are available. Whilst over 92% of students a number of Russell Group institutions such as: in 2013/14 chose to study their degree at an NCUK partner • university, NCUK students gained places at over 60 UK universities. • • The University of Cardiff These include the University of Edinburgh, University of Warwick • • The University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University. • • Newcastle University In 2012, 70% of students placed from the NCUK IFY were • The University of Nottingham • accepted by Russell Group universities in the UK. The subject • Queen Mary University of London • The University of Warwick areas they progressed onto are demonstrated below.

Among the partner institutions, there are a further three ‘Russell Group’ Universities all of which are ranked in the ‘Top 150’ in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. In domestic rankings, three out of the six rank in the ‘Top 25’ for teaching Law, including Queen Mary University of London which ranks 3rd. Three out of the six partners also rank in the NCUK IFY Student Progression to UK Russell Group Universities ‘Top 25’ for teaching in the field of Computer Science. The University of Birmingham, an NCUK Partner University, was Others recently awarded The Sunday Times ‘University of the Year’ in 2013-14. Allied to Medicine Physical Science Each year, about 10% of NCUK students chose to study their Biological Sciences UK degree at an NCUK Partner University, on courses such as Economics and Finance at the University of Bristol and Architecture Pharmacy at Aston University. Law Technologies Social Studies Engineering Maths & Computer Science Business & Admin Studies

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%

Successful students are accepted on to a wide range of multi-disciplinary programmes by universities worldwide and a student body from over 50 nationalities.

31 32 Become a Partner

NCUK offers a flexible business model to suit your needs, from Become an our licensing option to joint ventures, resulting in full degree delivery with one or more of the NCUK universities. NCUK Delivery Partner

70% of students from the IFY placed Our students achieve excellent 80% of students gained a place If you are interested in offering one or more of the NCUK Where a Foundation programme is not required, students can by NCUK were accepted by Russell outcomes at their chosen universities at their first choice of university programmes, we offer a standard licence option to become an opt for the International Year One programme. This takes the Group universities with over 77% of former IFY students ‘NCUK Delivery Partner’. By choosing this option, you would students directly into the second year of their undergraduate gaining a 2:2 degree or higher join a global network of more than thirty partners currently degree programme in the UK. Alternatively, they can join an running one or more of the NCUK programmes. You provide NCUK degree delivery college such as the Sino British College the tuition, administrative management, sales and marketing. in Shanghai, China. NCUK provides the academic syllabus and marketing guidelines, together with support, examination and placement services. For Postgraduate students, the Pre-Masters programme offers the perfect preparation to succeed once the students start For Pre-University and Undergraduate students, you can offer their Masters degree. The flexibility of the programme means the NCUK programmes as 1+3, 1+2 or 2+2 models, depending there are three possible entry routes, depending on the on the in-country education system and university entry students’ level of English. requirements for an International Foundation Year.

Case Study Oxbridge Tutorial College, Nigeria Oxbridge Tutorial College, Nigeria’s first and leading Sixth Form College, became an NCUK partner in 2004. Since that time, they have helped to establish a successful in-country presence with NCUK where we are working with four other delivery partners, ACCESS Group of Schools, Brookstone School, Chrisland Pre-Degree College and Zamani College. Over 100 students a year sign up to follow NCUK’s multi-disciplinary International Foundation Programme. Nearly half the students focus on the Science and Engineering streams, with the remainder choosing programmes in Business or Humanities. In 2014, Oxbridge extended their brand to create the Oxbridge Academy which now runs the NCUK International Year One programme that takes successful students directly into the second year of their degree programme in the UK.

“NCUK are doing a marvellous job at catering for the academic needs of the students here at Oxbridge ANNUAL BURSARY FUND Tutorial College.” Carol Scott-McHale OF OVER College Principal, Oxbridge Tutorial College; Nigeria awarded by NCUK to high achieving students

33 34 Become an NCUK International Study Centre

Currently located across the UK and Europe, International Study Centres attract a range of nationalities seeking to progress to Case Study complete undergraduate or postgraduate study in the UK. In 2014, over 50 nationalities chose to study on one of the NCUK Dublin International Foundation College (DIFC), Ireland programmes in the UK and Europe. DIFC became an NCUK partner in 2001. Since that time, they have established an International Study Centre that attracts over 100 students per year across a range of NCUK programmes. Students apply from a wide range of countries The programmes are licensed as previously described but typically, students will be recruited from a range of countries. You provide and at any one time there are around twenty different nationalities studying with NCUK and DIFC. The student the tuition, administrative management, sales and marketing. Your recruitment sales and marketing activity would be across diversity provides an added dimension to the classes. The staff provide exemplary support both in the classroom and a number of countries and/or regions. NCUK provides the academic syllabus and marketing guidelines, together with support, with pastoral care. For students moving on to the UK, it also allows them to experience life in the vibrant city of Dublin examination and placement services. and a bit of the famous Irish charm.

“We choose to offer the NCUK programmes at DIFC because of the quality and international recognition of the programmes. It opens doors when we’re recruiting from new markets. We also benefit from NCUK’s extensive market knowledge and the opportunities of working within the wider partner network.” Diarmuid Moroney Chairman, Dublin International Foundation College, Ireland

Which model is right for my business?

UNDERGRADUATE MODEL PROGRAMMES UNIVERSITY OUTCOME NUMBER OF DEGREE OPTIONS PARTNERSHIP TYPE

International Guaranteed place to Year One Over 3,000 Delivery Partner or 1 3 Foundation Year at an NCUK university International Study Centre

International Guaranteed place to Year Two Over 200 Delivery Partner or 1 2 Year One at an NCUK university International Study Centre

International Foundation Year NCUK university degree Over 200 Delivery Partner, International 2 2 and International Year One Study Centre or In-Country Degree Partner

International Foundation Year NCUK university Bespoke to In-Country 4+0 and International Year One degree each project Degree Partner followed by two years with an NCUK university in country

POSTGRADUATE MODEL PROGRAMMES UNIVERSITY OUTCOME NUMBER OF DEGREE OPTIONS PARTNERSHIP TYPE PRE-MASTERS Pre-Masters Programme Placement to a Masters Over 1,500 Delivery Partner or programme at an NCUK International Study Centre PROGRAMME university

35 36 Become an In-Country Degree Delivery Partner

In 2005/06, NCUK developed an extension of its pathway activity creating a ‘Transnational Education’ model offering in-country degree completion with one or more of the NCUK Universities, following a 2+2 model. This enables students to complete an entire UK degree offshore. Alternatively, students can opt to study one or two years in the UK.

Case Study Sino-British College (SBC), China The Sino-British College (SBC) is an education joint venture between nine of the NCUK Universities and the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology (USST); the nine UK universities are represented collectively through NCUK. SBC has the status of an attached college of USST. To date, over 6,000 students have studied an NCUK programme at SBC. Although the majority are Chinese nationals, over 30 nationalities are represented including Brazilian, Indian and Indonesian. Since 2006, over 1,500 SBC students have progressed to undergraduate degree study in the UK on a 2+2 model. Over 3,000 students have graduated having completed the majority of their UK degree at SBC (a 3+1 or 4+0 study pattern).

“During my time at SBC, I enjoyed the continuous input and support offered by NCUK. Their experience of running international programmes in multiple locations provides a top class UK and international dimension. Their academic standards are always the highest possible and they have shown a major commitment to continuously improving the syllabus, delivery methods and mentoring our staff, enabling SBC to be seen as a world leader in the provision of transnational education.”

Professor Ian Gow, OBE MA PhD DUniv FRSA Principal and CEO, Sino-British College, China (2009 – 2014)

NCUK is responsible for the curriculum, quality assurance, summative assessment and certification for its pathway programmes. Quality assurance is ultimately overseen by the NCUK Universities and is based on UK Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) guidelines. The model assumes that the joint venture entity will be able to negotiate access to, and use of, capital equipment on the host campus required for the delivery of the degree programmes. This model may be suited to a joint venture involving an established tertiary education institution, typically a public or private university.

The advantages of this model include:

• Accelerate internationalisation through a strategic relationship with NCUK, a ‘not for profit’ organisation wholly owned by eleven leading UK universities. • Bring tried and tested, world standard, pathway programmes and UK undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses to the university • Attract international students from a range of countries with associated increased international tuition fee income • Increase progression opportunities for local students • Create a cost effective route for sponsoring bodies to channel their funds supporting local students to gain international qualifications.

For students, they can complete a UK degree either partly or wholly in their home country, offering flexibility and choice as well as saving time and money. All tuition is undertaken using western approaches to teaching and learning.

37 38 NCUK Programme Development Academic Quality Management

At NCUK, our dedicated team can work with you to consider a wider range of programmes that might be more suitable for We maintain academic standards and enhance quality through the procedures and infrastructure that comprise the NCUK Quality your market. All our programmes are reviewed by NCUK Universities, which enables us to guarantee successful students a place Assurance Framework. The Framework has been approved by the NCUK Universities through the Northern Consortium Board onto one of their degree programmes. of Trustees. Our procedures are modelled on those commonly in use for collaborative provision in UK universities and conform to Quality Assurance Agency’s Quality Code. An independent auditor appointed by and reporting to the NC Board of Trustees If you are considering working with us, you benefit from: provides oversight. To protect the academic integrity of the Northern Consortium and the NCUK Universities, NCUK has a governance structure that ensures standards are maintained. The diagram, below, highlights the governance structure and all • A tried and tested programme; a 25 year history with over 23,500 successful students gaining university places supporting bodies. • Guaranteed university place to those students reaching the defined progression standards • Access to comprehensive counselling, university application and placement services

Northern Consortium Charity Board of Trustees “The support we have received from NCUK as a new college has been incredible. From general business advice to support with student recruitment activity it has really helped us get started. They offer a local solution with a long established international pedigree. Their programmes guarantee direct entry into leading universities NCUK Ltd in the UK which meets the needs of our students.” Board of Directors Peter Dale Director, St Peter’s International College, Colombia

Chief Executive Officer External Auditor

Academic Director

Programme Quality Committee (PQC) Delivery Quality Committee (DQC) • Advises the Academic Director on the academic • Advises the Academic Director on the academic integrity and quality of NCUK’s programmes, quality and performance of centres assessments, regulations, procedures and processes • Reviews reports from centre approval, monitoring and audit activities

AUDIT Programme Validation Panel (PVP) • Ad hoc panel convened by the PQC to examine specific programmes which are undergoing review or are completely new

All NCUK Delivery Partners are audited by NCUK and we work with our partners to establish robust quality assurance systems to match our needs and the needs of the NCUK universities. Our aim is to create a cycle of quality management that helps you to improve and develop your programmes and maximise and enhance the learning experience for your students.

39 40 Student Services Fees / Charges

At NCUK, we work in partnership to support you from the first point of contact and the application process through to the We typically make three charges for our programmes: successful recruitment of NCUK students. It continues beyond this throughout the academic year and more importantly, to help you and your students navigate the university application process. 1 Pre-commencement audit fee.

Supported by an online system called ‘Welcome’, we provide a detailed entry directory for each NCUK University. This allows you 2 An annual operating fee per centre per programme/stream. and your students to review a bespoke university degree programme search. The results provide the entry requirements, the cost of the programme and any specific information. It also acts as a student registration portal and document library for NCUK programmes. 3 A registration and examination fee for each enrolled student on the NCUK programmes being delivered. The per capita registration and examination fee charges will be subject to a minimum number of student registrations for each programme cohort and will be payable when Undergraduate Applications Postgraduate Applications registrations are confirmed to NCUK at the end of the sixth week of the programme each year. As part of our service to you and your students, we help your We offer a unique, single point of application for all postgraduate students navigate the centralised UCAS application process for students to apply to NCUK Universities. This saves time and UK universities. Our support and guidance includes: allows students to concentrate on their intensive Pre-Masters Final charge rates can vary depending on the number Programme study. They will also benefit from expert advice of programmes offered, the anticipated student numbers and • Management of your students’ applications to help them understand how their academic and vocational progression rates. Our flexible business model can be adapted to meet most requirements. • Counselling opportunities with NCUK and UK background influences their postgraduate study opportunities, university staff and to ensure that they make the very best choice. • A guarantee of two conditional offers within the NCUK Universities

Once your students have made their applications, they can follow their progress through NCUK’s Welcome system.

We also help to make sure that your students receive their ‘Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies’ (CAS) which is vital for their visa applications. For your staff, we can also provide support in understanding the UK visa process.

Once your students have confirmed their place at their chosen universities, we can also provide support in making accommodation applications.

NCUK Clearing Support

At NCUK, we appreciate that not all students achieve their predicted grades. Because of our unique relationship with the NCUK Universities, we are able to offer a Clearing Support service. If your students have not met the entry requirements for their first choice university, we can still place them into a degree in their area of interest with one of the NCUK Universities.The students recieve a set of guaranteed offers at the same time that they receive their results. All they have to do is select the offer they prefer and NCUK will do the rest. Next steps... Visit corporate.ncuk.ac.uk or email [email protected] to discuss your options. 41 42 corporate.ncuk.ac.uk Follow us on Twitter @NCUKTogether

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