Summary:

The UK higher education system, also known as post-secondary or third-level education, begins after compulsory schooling from ages five to sixteen. Students who wish to enter higher education usually complete AS and A Levels between the ages of sixteen and eighteen, studying subjects aligned with their intended university discipline. These qualifications are essential for admission to British universities.

Undergraduate education in the UK typically starts at eighteen and lasts three years, leading to a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree. The system emphasizes academic writing, critical thinking, and analytical skills. For students who do not meet entry requirements, especially international learners, foundation courses and preparatory diplomas provide alternative pathways into degree programs.

Postgraduate education includes master’s degrees, research-based qualifications such as the MRes, and doctoral studies. Most UK master’s degrees are completed in one year, while doctorates generally take three to four years. Postgraduate assessment relies heavily on research, written assignments, and, in some cases, a thesis.

The UK academic year usually runs from September or October to June or July, with most universities following a semester-based structure. Higher education options also include Higher National Diplomas and diploma programs, which can be converted into full degrees. Oversight of higher education policy is supported by the Higher Education Commission, an independent advisory body.

Compared to the USA, the UK system is shorter in duration, more specialized in subject focus, less expensive, and places greater weight on final examinations rather than continuous assessment.

UK Higher Education System: Structure, Degrees and Comparison with the USA:

Structure of Higher Education System in the UK :

The UK higher education system is also called post-secondary or third level education. Kaplan describes this UK system under the following headings:

1- School and AS/A Level:

In the UK, every child is required to attend full-time education from the age of five to sixteen.

After the age of sixteen, students can choose to continue their secondary education for a further two years, during which they usually study A levels. At A levels, students study three to four subjects that are related to their chosen subject at university. A levels are required for all British students wishing to enter higher education institutions.

2- Undergraduate Degree:

Most students enter higher education at the age of eighteen for an undergraduate degree. In the UK, it usually takes three years to complete a bachelor's degree. Undergraduate courses help students improve their academic ability and in some cases, develop work-related skills. The British education system places a strong emphasis on writing and analytical skills. Foundation Certificate and Diploma courses prepare international students for an undergraduate degree.

3- Postgraduate Degree:

Students pursuing an undergraduate degree can apply for a postgraduate degree.

The most popular degrees in the UK are awarded in one year, but some PhDs can take up to seven years to complete. British master's degrees require critical thinking and research. In addition to classes, students are required to spend time on research in a specific subject area. Postgraduate students are assessed through written assignments and tests. Some postgraduate degrees require thesis based on coursework.

 

British universities follow the same timetable as schools, with the academic year starting in September or October and ending in June or July. Most universities use a three-semester system, starting in September or October, then in January and May. Some universities follow the US system, with two semesters starting in September or October and January. Most courses at almost all universities start in the autumn months. The following options are available for higher education in the UK:

i- Foundation Courses:

In addition to courses, some colleges and universities also offer special foundation courses, called zero-year programs, aimed at preparing students in science and engineering fields who do not meet the requirements for admission to regular programs.

ii- Diplomas and NHDs:

Two-year Higher National Diploma (HND) and Diploma of Higher Education courses are very popular in the UK, but some students choose to study for an additional year and convert these diplomas into a degree .

iii- Bachelor/Undergraduate Degree:

These courses last three years, upon completion of which a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree is awarded.

 

iv- Master/Postgraduate Degree:

A master's degree is a four-year course, including a one-year sandwich course abroad or in industry. A master's degree can be completed in one year after an undergraduate degree. The MBA is the most popular degree in the world and the UK produces the largest number of MBAs after North America.

v- Doctorate:

Another form of master's degree is the Master's in Research (MRes), which prepares students for doctorate-level research. A doctorate is the highest academic qualification in the UK, taking three to four years to complete and requiring a master's degree for entry.

vi- Higher Education Commission of UK :

According to Bridgman, the UK Higher Education Commission is an independent body comprising representatives from the education sector, the business community and the three major political parties. The Higher Education Commission, formed by Parliament, reviews policies relating to higher education, conducts evidence-based inquiries and issues written reports in light of the recommendations of policymakers.

vii- Comparison of Higher Education Systems of USA and UK:

         

      USA

Duration. B.A Four years

                   M.A. Two years

                   PHD. Five to Seven years

       UK

Duration. B.A Three years

                     M.A. One year

                     PHD. Three years

    USA

Academic Term

Most of the schools have semester system but some have quarter system. Educational year starts from August and ends in May.

   UK

Academic Term

Most of the schools have semester system and some quarter system. Educational years is different for different Universities.

     USA

University Organization

Universities are consist different subjects of schools though most of these schools are not independent.

       UK

University acts as umbrella organisation for colleges and most of the colleges are independent.

    USA

Style of Education

Flexible, Liberal Arts and study of major subject.

     UK

Can have classes only in colleges.

    USA

Depth or scope

Scope.

   UK

Depth.

   USA

Home Work

Regular assignments for reading and writing.

    UK

Home Work

Normal assignments or sometimes nothing.

    USA

Expanses

High.

   UK

Expanses

Moderate.

   USA

Grades

Based on all assignments.

      UK

Grades

Mostly on the basis of final exams.