HC Deb 31 March 1977 vol 929 cc255-6W
Dr. Hampson

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how many institutions currently offer Diploma of Higher Education qualifications; and how many purpose-built, two-year courses there are.

Mr. Oakes

For the current academic year about 40 institutions in England and Wales offered courses, approved under the Further Education Regulations, which may lead to the award of the Diploma of Higher Education. The design of such courses is a matter for the institutions themselves and their validating bodies, but guidelines issued in 1973 by a study group with members nominated by the Council for National Academic Awards, the Committee of Vice-Chancellors and principals and the Open University stressed the importance of the diploma being awarded on the basis of an internally coherent programme.