Text 37. Studies and degrees

Courses in arts and science are offered by most universities. Imperial College, London, the University of Manchester Ins­titute of Science and Technology and some of the newer universities concentrate on technology although they also offer a number of courses in social studies, modern languages and other non-technological subjects. About 45 per cent of full-time university students in Great Britain are taking arts or social studies courses and 41 per cent science and technology: about 10 per cent are studying medicine, dentistry and health, and the remainder agriculture, veterinary science, architecture and town and country planning.

University degrees courses generally extend over three or four years. Though in medicine, dentistry and veterinary science five or six years are required. The first degree of Bachelor (Master in the arts faculties of the older Scottish universities) is awarded on the completion of such a course, depending on satisfactory examination results. Further study or research is requ­ired at the modern universities for the degree of Master and by all universities for that of Doctor. Actual degree titles vary according to the practice of each university. A uniform standard of degree throughout the country is ensured by having exter­nal examiners on all examining boards. In the last decades there has been a tendency for degree to become more broadly based in subject matter, particularly in the new universities.

University teaching combines lectures, practical courses (in scientific subjects) and small group teaching in either seminars or tutorials.

Answer the following questions:

1. How many university students are taking arts or social studies courses? And science and technology?

2. What is the name of the first degree? When is it awarded?

3. What is required to get the degree of Master or that of Doctor?

4. How is a uniform standard of degree throughout the country ensured?

5. What does university teaching combine?