Subject Benchmark Statement for Engineering
Published: 5 May 2023
Subject Benchmark Statement for Engineering by the UK's QAA - with contributions from Glasgow College UESTC Professor
The Subject Benchmark Statement for Engineering was published last month by the UK's Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (the QAA). Professor Kelum Gamage, of Glasgow College UESTC, was part of the advisory group which contributed to this highly important and sector-defining document.
The QAA website describes the importance, globally, of defining the aims and ideals of what is a highly broad and varied subject. As engineering helps shape the future, the Statement seeks to shape the future of engineering, for the next 7 years.
"Engineering is a very broad subject covering many diverse disciplines and within each discipline there are numerous specialisations. Engineers seek to create, develop and apply technology, processes and systems which enhance the lives of people and protect them from harm. Engineering innovation is central to delivering equitable and sustainable solutions to the most pressing global challenges. Sustainable solutions are not merely about the environment, but also addressing social and economic concerns at all levels in order to create a more robust and resilient world.
Graduates will either develop skills to solve broadly defined, single-domain problems, or to solve progressively more complex, integrated, socioeconomical and technological systems. Engineering graduates are highly sought after and can be successful in a variety of careers."
Vicki Stott, Chief Executive Officer, QAA told those who had contributed that:
“The work you have done is hugely important and will have a wide impact for colleagues in your subject area and for their students. For this reason, we are extremely grateful to you for your commitment to, and engagement with, this important work.” Professor Gamage, likewise, notes, "“I was pleased to be part of the Engineering Subject Benchmark advisory group and contributed to the important work of reviewing the standards and content of undergraduate/masters degrees in Engineering."
The full Benchmark Statement and other useful information is available online at the QAA website. Readers can access the full and 'basic' summary versions here.
Please note, that this version also includes the important themes of sustainability and EDI.
First published: 5 May 2023