Agreement renewal review for collaborative programmes

The University takes a structured and transparent approach to managing collaborative provision, ensuring that all partnerships deliver high-quality academic experiences and outcomes for students. All collaborative programmes are subject to regular monitoring and review, with clear processes in place from initial approval through to renewal. 

 All partners are carefully selected, and programmes are subject to regular review, including evaluation of student feedback. The University works closely with partners to ensure high standards and continuous enhancement. 

 The University follows a structured framework to establish, monitor and review all collaborative provision, underpinned by principles of good practice and alignment with the UK Quality Code for Higher Education. 

 The University is also a participant in the Quality Evaluation and Enhancement of UK Transnational Higher Education (QE-TNE) programme coordinated by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). 

 Collaborative degrees, and validation and articulation arrangements, follow a structured five-stage review process, as outlined below. Study abroad and exchange programmes are reviewed annually through mobility reviews (see the Collaborative programmes web page). 

 Five-stage review process 

 All collaborative programmes are subject to the following stages, as set out in the Policy on Collaborative provision of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. 

1. Approval 

 The approval process ensures thorough review of collaborative proposals and due diligence at the outset. This covers, for example, existing links with the partner, status of partner, arrangements for partnership operation including lead institution (rules and regulations), partner’s procedures for module approval and review, partner’s strategies for enhancement, and agreeing to a structure and membership of the programme's Joint Board. It is also at this stage that the School will put forward an Academic Co-ordinator, a role which is usually held by the programme proposer. 

2. Implementation 

 This stage involves a light-touch review at the commencement of the programme. It primarily involves the School, Global Office and Registry, and is intended to iron out any issues with the initial programme establishment. The Global Office shares the outcomes with the Academic Monitoring Group (AMG). 

 3. First review 

The first review provides an early opportunity to monitor progress, and ensure any problems are identified and resolved at an early stage in the life cycle of the programme. The review normally takes place in the academic year after the first cohort of students has been admitted (irrespective of location of study in the first year). The Education and Student Experience (ESE) team shares outcomes with AMG. 

 4. Annual monitoring and review 

The Joint Board, via the Academic Co-ordinator at St Andrews, reports to AMG annually on programme matters, issues, trends and student feedback. This includes reflection on applications and entrants to the programme, student progression and outcomes, key issues discussed at the joint committee over the last year and any concerns or issues which the Co-ordinator wishes to highlight. Where appropriate, collaborative programmes will also form part of the University-led reviews of learning and teaching. 

 5. Agreement renewal review 

This stage is a full review of all aspects of the collaborative programme and takes place around 15-18 months prior to the end of the Agreement period. The review provides an opportunity for the University, School/Department, collaborative partner, and review team to reflect on the operation, management, development, and future of the programme. The ESE team shares outcome reports, action plans, and action plan updates with AMG for consideration.  

 The Director of the Global Office will write to the Principal’s Office for approval of the recommended action following AMG’s consideration of the outcome report. An institutional decision will then be made as to whether the collaborative programme should be continued. Guidance on this stage of the review process is available via Handbook: Agreement renewal review for collaborative programmes.