Abstract
This article presents the findings of a study of 94 Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes (PGTMs) offered in twelve Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the UK. It is based on interviews with administrators and with degree programme directors. Documentation was also analysed. The study was commissioned by the HEQC/QAA as a result of the recommendations of the Harris and Dearing Reports. The study reveals wide variation in regulatory frameworks relating to Masters programmes and in the design of programmes, but consensus on the defining characteristics of work at this level and the nature of benefits that students obtain. While institutional procedures for initial approval and validation appear to be rigorous and effective, the ongoing assurance and monitoring of standards is heavily dependent on the external examiner system and informal academic networks with virtually no systematic staff development or benchmarking in place. Several issues are identified in relation to the proposed national typology of courses/levels.
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