International student success – do the raw materials meet the specification?

Purpose:- To confirm the entry standards of specialist MSc programmes within Engineering and provide a diagnostic test that will determine if a prospective student has the underpinning knowledge to facilitate success on the programme. Design/Methodology/Approach:- The entry standards for the specialist programmes within Engineering were benchmarked against the competitor set used in the Corporate Strategy to identify any significant differences or practices. The entry test was developed by discussion with the programme leaders at Northumbria. Its suitability was tested on Northumbria final year undergraduate (UG) students and compared with their degree award. The results from UG and post graduate (PG) students provided data that was analysed to confirm the programme leader’s expectations. The test was then given to new MSc students and analysis carried out to compare how well they progressed on the programme. Findings:- There are no major differences in the academic entry criterion specified within the benchmark group, however English requirements do differ. The Northumbria undergraduate students that passed the test graduated at upper second class level or higher. Both graduating UG and incoming PG students had similar levels of knowledge. There is moderate correlation which is statistically significant, between the entry test and the postgraduate results. Originality/value:- This model will help enrol more appropriate students and improve the retention, progression, completion and performance of International students as stated in the Corporate Strategy. This model could be adopted by any School or Institution offering specialist PGT programmes.