Weekend Reading: Who can actually afford a Master’s – and what can we all do about it?
Affordability is a growing obstacle for UK Master's students, demanding clearer communication about funding, costs, and realistic financial expectations.
Blog
The HEPI Blog aims to make brief, incisive contributions to the higher education policy landscape. It is circulated to our subscribers and published online. We welcome guest submissions, which should follow our Instructions for Blog Authors. Submissions should be sent to our Blog Editor, Josh Freeman, at [email protected].
Collaborative digital research infrastructure – the engine driving efficiencies in research and innovation
Collaborative digital research infrastructure streamlines research processes, fostering innovation, reducing bureaucracy, and enhancing research security.
Widening access is a higher education success story, but it’s time for the rest of the lifecycle to catch up
The University of Plymouth’s partnership with CoachBright aims to close the attainment and continuation gaps for underrepresented students, fostering belonging and academic success through individual coaching and tailored support programmes.
How Universities and Governments interact: the scope and limits of regulation and influence
The evolving relationship between universities and the UK government highlights the delicate balance between institutional autonomy and alignment with political priorities, with current economic challenges potentially fostering closer collaboration without sacrificing autonomy.
Would restricting access to Russell Group universities and introducing an Oxbridge lottery crack open Britain’s elite?
Nick Hillman, HEPI’s Director, takes a look at the new book ‘Born to Rule: The Making and Remaking of the British Elite’ by Aaron Reeves (Professor of Sociology and Social Policy at the University of Oxford) and Sam Friedman (Professor of Sociology at the LSE). As the last book I…
Personal Statements – a redraft rather than a reform?
UCAS’s 2026 Personal Statement reforms aim to simplify the process and level the playing field, yet the minimal changes may not significantly reduce stress or widen access for students as intended.
Weekend Reading: What really goes on at university?
The Secret Lecturer paints a bleak picture of UK universities, highlighting the pressures of corporate culture, academic scrutiny, and the rise in mental health issues for staff and students.
When it comes to education on sexual assault and consent, co-creation and co-delivery are vital
Co-creation and co-delivery in sexual assault and consent education foster more relevant, engaging, and empathetic learning experiences, ensuring students receive the support and knowledge needed for their safety and well-being.
Gender Equality in Research & Innovation – How Gender Impacts the Research Journey
The Elsevier 2024 gender report reveals that, despite gains in gender equity across global research, significant disparities persist, especially in senior positions and patent involvement, necessitating continued targeted interventions.
Renters’ Rights Bill and Student Accommodation: The Final Stretch?
The Renters Rights Act introduces significant changes for student housing, offering greater flexibility with two-month notice periods, but concerns remain over potential reductions in housing supply and rising rents in the student rental market.