Cap on student numbers in higher education unchanged

The current Maximum Student Number (MaSN) in full time under graduate places in Higher Education in Northern Ireland will remain unchanged.

The decision was announced today by Maria Eagle, Minister for Employment and Learning following a consultation exercise which began in November 2005.

Commenting on the decision to stay within the current MaSN capping arrangements, Maria Eagle said:

“Having considered responses to the consultation document,  I have concluded that on the basis of the available evidence, the case in favour of increasing the number of locally available full-time undergraduate places was not compelling.

“However, the level will be kept under review especially in areas of potential economic growth.  I recognise the valuable contribution that higher education makes to the Northern Ireland economy, and that the context in which the assessment was made is not static.”

The Minister explained that further consideration will be given as research projects are completed and more evidence becomes available, particularly in relation to the demand for higher level skills.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

  1. The number of full-time undergraduate places in each institution in Northern Ireland is subject to a cap known as the Maximum Student Number (MaSN).
  2. In November 2005 the Department published a position paper to initiate debate on the optimum number of full-time undergraduate places in Northern Ireland. Copies of the paper were issued to a range of organisations including the Higher Education Institutions and local political parties, as well as being made available to the general public through the Department’s website.
  3. The consultation period closed on 31 July 2006. The Department received a total of 17 submissions.
  4. Media enquiries to the Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on 028 9025 7872.