University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) postgraduate experience rated best in Scotland for second year in a row
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Postgraduate students at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) have rated their study experience as the best in Scotland in a UK-wide survey for the second year in a row.
UHI received a score of 92 per cent student satisfaction in the 2023 Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey.
The result means that UHI achieved the highest rating of any Scottish university and has been ranked third out of the 101 participating institutions across the UK.
Coordinated by Advance HE, the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey invites students to have their say on taught postgraduate university programmes. Students are asked about areas including teaching, assessment and support.
Almost 90 students from across UHI completed this year's survey. Respondents rated UHI particularly highly for teaching, assessment and organisation. Three UHI courses received 100 per cent overall satisfaction scores: its MLitt in Viking studies, MEd tertiary and higher education and MA in contemporary art and archaeology.
Dr Iain Morrison, dean of student experience, said: "For the second year running our postgraduate students have told us that they are the most satisfied with their experience in Scotland.
"To also be ranked third in the UK from 101 participating institutions is quite remarkable and reflects the expertise of our wonderful staff and the focus we place on individual student needs.
"The message is clear from those who know best: if you are thinking about studying a postgraduate qualification, think UHI!"
Students' Association President William Campbell added: "I welcome the results ranking UHI first in Scotland and third overall in the UK for student experience in the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey.
"They show the dedication and hard work that students and staff have put in for this recognition."
Rona Campbell completed a MSc in sustainable rural development at Lews Castle College UHI (now part of UHI North, West and Hebrides) in 2017 and said: “Master’s study filled the gaps in my knowledge of economic development in a rural area. The course helped me to develop a deeper knowledge of community development, land use, land reform and how communities function and respond to everything from day-to-day activities to emergency situations such as the pandemic.
“Studying boosted my self-confidence, showing me I was capable of returning to study and achieving a MSc. I would never have done this without UHI’s online study options and technology and the leadership and enthusiasm of my programme leader. I’ve since completed a PhD with UHI Outer Hebrides (now part of UHI North, West and Hebrides)."
Christopher Arnold completed an MA in health and wellbeing at UHI Outer Hebrides (now part of UHI North, West and Hebrides).
He said: "The MA course gave me confidence and abilities in researching subjects and critical analysis of research material.
"It also gave me a much greater depth in understanding on health and wellbeing issues and the breadth of perspectives that can be considered across the field.
"The part-time, remote working and self-directed approach with weekly lectures for some modules fitted well with my life and other commitments. The tutors were approachable and knowledgeable and gave good advice for additional areas of consideration.
"My background was in radiography. I am now employed in the NHS as an area manager overseeing health and social care services across a wide geographical area."
