The revised QAA qualification characteristics for doctoral degrees

As a result of a short consultation launched earlier this year, the QAA have published the revised Qualification Characteristics statements for doctoral degrees, masters degrees and foundation degrees to bring them in line with the UK Quality Code. 

Vitae is a member of the QAA Postgraduate Advisory group and was involved in reviewing and updating the doctoral document. It provides a useful overview of the types of doctoral degrees, key features of the content, structure and delivery, outcomes and assessment.

The revised statement describes the distinctive features of doctoral degrees in the UK and is linked to the Quality Code chap B11. It includes specific section on professional development for doctoral candidates and becomes a reference point for the purposes of QAA reviews conducted from 1 August 2016.