The Tertiary Lead Group in New Zealand created a national qualifications framework to incorporate all types of degrees given by colleges and universities. This report describes the process undertaken, the principles to be considered and the issues to be addressed, the benefits of such a national system, the features and specifications proposed,…

A global survey was conducted to: (1) determine what universities have ocean engineering curricula; (2) obtain information on the nature of these curricula; and (3) determine the similarity of curricula by noting the frequence of occurrence of specific courses or subjects. Results indicate that at least 97 academic institutions in 19 countries…

The practice of awarding honorary degrees by American colleges and universities is examined. Topics include the background of the practice, schools that refuse to participate, the selection process used by some institutions, possible financial and other reasons for granting honorary degrees, and benefits gained by those honored. (JMD)

This article argues that the degree types used in most British higher education institutions are inherently unfair, waste valuable resources, and serve no useful purpose. It is recommended that this system be replaced by one in which first degrees are awarded on a pass-fail basis, with evidence of individual academic performance given in a…

A discussion concerning international recognition of degrees, diplomas, and other academic credentials focuses on such things as the range of diplomas awarded in that system, information on the diploma, its external public and vocational worth, and program access. (MSE)

The result of a two-year effort by more than 150 community college faculty and staff members in Hawaii, this report presents task force recommendations for improving programs leading to the associate degree. The recommendations concern: (1) the maintenance of two associate degrees, an associate in arts and an associate in science; (2) the…

This study of the time-to-degree issue at institutions of higher education in Alabama reviewed existing reports on the problem, identified factors contributing to increases in time-to-degree, and surveyed baccalaureate programs in the state for the credit-hour degree requirements. Following an executive summary, Section 1 considers factors…

This paper discusses the implications of the enactment of legislation in Florida in 1995 mandating the standardization of requirements for baccalaureate degree programs within the state university system. The paper also describes the tools and methodology created by that state's university system for addressing the tasks of implementing the new…