Master's degree characteristics

The Master's degree characteristics document is intended to be of practical help to providers and other interested parties, including those wishing to understand more about the nature of UK master's degrees more generally, which may include students, employers and overseas audiences. Institutions are encouraged to consult the guidance contained in the document when designing, delivering and reviewing new and existing programmes, and when describing programmes in information intended for prospective students and others. The new reference point offers guidance on the nature of different types of master's degree, all of which are expected to meet the outcomes identified in the qualification descriptor of The framework for higher education qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (FHEQ), 2008 or The framework for qualifications of higher education institutions in Scotland, 2001. The characteristics described here relate to the different ways in which a master's degree may be provided in delivering the outcomes identified in the national qualification descriptor. In some instances, there may be additional points of reference that providers may wish to draw upon, including a small number of subject benchmark statements for master's degrees in particular subjects2 and the guidance or requirements of relevant professional, statutory or regulatory bodies