Latest news with #postgraduate
Times
02-07-2025
- Business
- Times
Students ‘using universities as UK migration backdoor'
International students are using universities as a back door to long-term settlement in the UK, a report has suggested. The paper from Policy Exchange, a centre-right think tank, calls for the graduate visa route to be scrapped for all students except those pursuing postgraduate research degrees. The government announced plans earlier this year to reduce the amount of time that overseas students can live and work in the UK using the graduate visa route from two years to 18 months. International students in the UK are already banned from bringing dependants with them apart from some postgraduate research courses or courses with government-funded scholarships. However, the report said the changes, introduced in January last year, did not go far enough and called for tougher rules to ensure that studying at UK universities was not a 'migration back door'. The paper said: 'The purpose of student migration should be to study, not to provide a backdoor route to longer-term migration or settlement. Increasingly, studying in the UK has become a pathway for widespread and sustained immigration.' The number of international students in the UK increased by 66 per cent between 2014-15 and 2023-24, the report said. It added that in 2023, 40 per cent of those who arrived on student visas transferred to a different visa type within one year in 2023 — up from just 3 per cent in 2019. The number of individuals transferring directly from study visas to health and care worker visas rose from nearly 4,000 to more than 26,000 between June 2022 and June 2023, according to the report. Zachary Marsh, research fellow in education at Policy Exchange and author of the report, said: 'The government and universities must go further to clamp down on those gaming the system. A more muscular approach is needed to restore public confidence that international students are good for our universities and wider economy and society.' The report has suggested that overseas students may be 'crowding out' UK students at some universities, although institutions have argued that the much higher fees paid by foreign students help to cross-subsidise domestic students and keep courses afloat. Neil O'Brien, the shadow education minister, is due to address a Policy Exchange event in London on Wednesday on higher education and migration to coincide with the launch of the think tank's report. He is due to say: 'It's not just taxpayers who are losing out. The current system isn't working for too many students, who are promised great things but find themselves having to pay back huge sums on very low wages. 'Too many students are being ripped off and we have to ask whether there are better uses of taxpayers' money that will leave young people better off.' THOMAS KRYCH/STORY PICTURE AGENCY Jo Grady, general secretary of University and College Union, said: 'Under the current broken funding model, to which the government sadly remains wedded, international students are essential to the financial stability of our higher education sector; they also contribute tens of billions of pounds to the UK economy each year.' Tim Bradshaw, chief executive of the Russell Group, said: 'In an increasingly competitive global market, the UK needs to maintain an attractive offer for international students. This includes the graduate visa route, which allows international graduates to remain in the UK to work and contribute to the economy for a period after their studies. We know that international student recruitment, like any immigration policy, needs to be robust and fair to maintain people's trust in the system.' • A spokeswoman for Universities UK, which represents vice-chancellors, said 'Every UK resident is £355 a year better off, on average, as a result of the international students universities attract. The soft power Britain gains from attracting international students is immeasurable. 'For the UK to remain competitive the graduate route is essential. It is a time-limited visa which does not lead to a permanent path to settlement.'
South China Morning Post
24-06-2025
- Politics
- South China Morning Post
5 Harvard postgraduates opt for Hong Kong's HKUST after US sanctions
Five Harvard University postgraduate students have accepted offers from Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) following the United States government's ban on international student admissions last month. Advertisement A HKUST spokeswoman confirmed that the university extended offers to six Harvard postgraduate students. 'The university has extended admission offers to six postgraduate Harvard offer holders and current students, whose research spans science, technology, humanities, and cross-disciplinary fields,' the spokeswoman told the Post. 'To date, five of these applicants—including students from Pakistan, Georgia, and Mainland China—have accepted their offers.' She added that HKUST received nearly 200 inquiries from students worldwide since they announced support measures for those affected by recent US policy changes. Advertisement Last month, US authorities said that international students at the university had to either transfer or leave the country.
Irish Times
02-06-2025
- Business
- Irish Times
Letters to the Editor, June 2nd: On PhD students, Israel and Pine Martens
Sir, – Advising potential US PhD students not to come to Ireland is perhaps an understandable reaction from students who have not been able to secure adequate funding for ever-increasing costs of living ( 'As PhD researchers this is our advice: avoid Ireland', Opinion, May 29th) . The article, however, contains a number of inaccuracies and omissions about the general conditions of Ireland's postgraduate research students. A PhD is the highest academic award a university can grant to a student. It comes with rigorous quality control and assessment. The sense of achievement on graduation is enormous, as are the benefits to the PhD graduate. Embarking on the (four-year plus) journey to obtain a PhD qualification is a very individual choice. Our supports for PhD students undoubtedly need to improve, but they are among the best in Europe and are far better than those on offer in most US universities, where many 'funded' students pay fees or work long hours as graduate teaching assistants. The four years is also an investment long term in their individual earning potential. As the recent HEA report on graduate outcomes has demonstrated, a PhD graduate is earning €815 per week compared with the €655 being earned by a graduate with a master's degree. The recent decision by Government and the main funding agencies to increase the PhD stipend to €25,000 per annum was welcome. All universities campaigned for this increase. We need to go further in increasing this base level – on that we all agree. READ MORE However, a direct comparison with the minimum and living-wage levels does not provide the full picture. PhD students do not pay tax or PRSI, unlike minimum wage workers. In addition, almost every student on the €25,000 stipend also has their tuition fees paid, at a further cost of between €5,000 and €13,000 each year – again a financial support not available to minimum wage workers. Dublin City University has moved all of our internally funded PhD students on to this new rate of €25,000, plus fees. This was done without additional Government support – at a significant cost to the university, but it is the right thing to do. The opinion piece suggests that universities seek to attract non-EU research students in order to raise income. Non-EU full-time research students are overwhelmingly on scholarships, where the higher rate of non-EU fee is paid by the research funder or the university, and they do not add significantly to university incomes. All of the universities have argued that the additional costs for those students, including visa fees, should be covered by funders. Furthermore, universities do not make a profit from PhD-based research. That research is significantly subsidised from other activity and through fundraising. Universities are also accused of acting like businesses in 'balancing the books'. The Universities Act sets out an obligation in law for each university to run a balanced budget. There are very significant consequences if this is not achieved. Despite the claim that 'many' of our universities are running financial surpluses, even the Government accepts that there is €307 million annual shortfall in public funding. In the absence of that funding being provided by government, universities have no choice but to seek to raise funds in all sorts of ways – including from business. Seeking external research funding is a key objective for all research-intensive universities. With regards to the profits made by DCU on-campus accommodation, our on-campus accommodation makes a significant portion of its revenue during the summer months when we charge full commercial rates to conference attendees and visitors to Dublin. Income from this period goes straight back into the university to help DCU to keep student accommodation rents as affordable as possible for students and their families. We need to properly fund our PhD students, including the additional costs of visas for international students, as well as increases to the basic stipend. To do that we need a properly funded public university system, and a wider research and innovation ecosystem. That is more urgent than ever in the current geopolitical uncertainty. Education, research and innovation have been at the heart of Ireland's social transformation, and will need to be again, as we adapt to the current turmoil. – Yours, etc, PROF JOHN DOYLE, Vice-president for Research, PROF SHARON O'BRIEN, Dean of Graduate Studies, Dublin City University Dublin 9. Squirrel spotting Sir, – Frank McNally's mentioned the common grey squirrel in a recent Irishman's Diary (Friday, May 30th). As luck would have it, only a day previously, I was fortunate enough to espy the lesser-spotted red variety scaling a tree in a wooded area in the Farnham Estate in Co Cavan. Moments later, a pine marten crossed my path at speed before disappearing into the undergrowth. A local woman to whom I recounted this wildlife encounter opined that the noticeable proliferation of red squirrels in the area was almost suggestive of a veritable truce having been declared between the two species. This state of affairs, she suggested, might be directly related to a corresponding reduction in the numbers of the once-thriving grey variety in the locality. Pine martens, she believes, are now content to ignore the agile red variety and instead concentrate their predatory instincts on their slightly larger and perhaps less athletic grey cousins. – Yours, etc, KIERAN FLYNN, Ballinasloe, Co Galway. Death and Gaza Sir, – As a proud Irish citizen of the European Union, I fear trust in the institutions of government have been irrevocably damaged if not completely eroded over the lack of sanction (or indeed any tangible action) from the EU on Israel's war in Gaza. The elephant in the room is that the EU has put US trade relations way above our human rights obligations as a block. Russia could be immediately sanctioned (rightly so) yet the dithering and feeble posturing over Palestinian slaughter has been embarrassing, infuriating and inhumane. This is not an EU of equals if Germany and Austria, with a few others, get to dictate our response to plausible genocide. Were we wrong to pass Nice and Lisbon treaties (albeit reluctantly) and dilute our voice in Europe? Have we left the warmongers in charge once more. Has business become our master in chief once and for all? I am a citizen, not a 'consumer'. I live in a country not a 'market'. I respect human life and dignity. Why have the citizens not been heeded? Why should we respect or participate in EU institutions any further when it was all fine words about culture, but in reality nothing more than an offshoot of multinational capitalist enterprise? – Yours, etc, SEAMUS HUGHES, Galway. Sir, – As a citizen of the EU, I would like to know what number of dead we in the Republic should expect to endure if we were being attacked by an outside state before we could anticipate that other countries would intervene to help us with actual action. It seems that we could look forward to at least 122 000 deaths (adjusting the current death-toll in Gaza for Irish population statistics). Just for context, in 2024 there were around 34,800 deaths registered here. Not that we need ever worry about being abandoned by the moral countries of the world; their recent track record inspires such confidence and pride. We would never be considered to have deserved such a fate though – we are, after all, far more human than the Palestinians. – Yours, etc, MARY MORAN, Shannon, Co Clare. Respecting the national anthem Sir, – I wish to fully endorse Kevin O'Regan's letter on the national anthem (Letters, May 29th) and fully support his suggestion of the introduction of a mandatory two-minute pause between the end of the anthem and the start of play in intercounty GAA games. I have noticed in recent years, especially at intercounty GAA games, a lack of respect for our national anthem. Some players do not stand to attention, and others break away from formation before the completion of the anthem. At a recent match I attended, the singer clearly didn't know the words, some players didn't even bother to stand to attention, and all players were breaking formation long before the anthem was finished. I understand players are anxious to get on with the game, but is one or two minutes going to make any difference to the starting? Gaelic games are our national games being watched worldwide, our national anthem deserves respect. – Yours, etc, VINCENT CARROLL, Dublin. Sir, – I wholeheartedly agree with your correspondent Kevin O'Regan on the apparent disregard for our national anthem within the GAA. It is a source of annoyance to see these players performing box-jumps and warming up during the anthem and not one of them actually reciting the words. I have long held the view that it should be compulsory for the players to sing the anthem and stand still to show respect. Compared to Six Nations rugby and the pride and passion the players show for their anthems, the GAA should hang their heads in shame. – Yours, etc, MARY LEE, Newbridge, Co Kildare. Sir, – The suggested mandatory two-minute pause between the end of Amhrán na bhFiann and the start of play at GAA matches would not be welcomed by corner forwards. – Yours, etc, LOMAN Ó LOINGSIGH, Kiltipper Road, Dublin 24. Climate change and fines Sir, – Ireland generates less than 0.1 per cent of the world's total greenhouse gas emissions. We are facing potential fines of up to €20-30 billion if climate targets are not reached by the end of the decade. Will the same penalties be proportionately applied to the world's biggest polluters, namely China, India, the United States and Brazil? If so, then their economies will justifiably collapse. A level playing field must surely apply. – Yours, etc, JOHN BURNETT, Co Cork. Cycling days gone by Sir, – I am sure readers of my vintage can recall the centre of Dublin, in places like College Green, being full of bicycles, riding several abreast. I'll wager not one of those riders considered him or herself a 'cyclist,' or had ever read a cycling magazine. The bicycle was transport, unless you were fairly well to do. Now, almost all bikes are ridden by enthusiasts. Having paid up to several thousand euro or pounds for their machines, and a tidy sum for helmets, clothing and accessories, they become members of a sort of parallel society, with its own rules and conventions – one of which seems to have a flagrant disregard for traffic lights and pedestrian crossings. I instinctively dislike extra laws and compulsion, but I feel it would be no bad thing if, as in some other countries, bicycles were registered and displayed a number plate. Where to mount it on some modern machines is another question. – Yours, etc, PAUL GRIFFIN, Liverpool.
Malay Mail
30-05-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
CUHK Faculty of Law: Pioneering Legal Education with Global Impact and Research Excellence
Distinguished Academic Excellence Innovative Programme Portfolio Research Impact and Global Collaboration Nurturing Global Legal Talent Tajra's postgraduate student life at CUHK has been remarkable: (left) participating in summer school in Genova, (centre) graduating with a Master of Laws in International Economic Law, and (right) having a summer internship at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea Professor Anatole Boute's research has greatly contributed to the energy market regulation in Central Asia HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 30 May 2025 - The Chinese University of Hong Kong's Faculty of Law ( CUHK LAW ) continues to strengthen its position as a leading international legal education institution, offering innovative programmes and conducting impactful research that shapes the future of legal practice across Asia and its establishment in 2004, CUHK LAW has emerged as a truly international faculty, with academic staff from over 20 jurisdictions. The Faculty's research excellence has been consistently recognised, leading Hong Kong's law domain in the UGC's Research Assessment Exercises of 2014 and 2020. Its global standing was further cemented in the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, achieving the 48position Faculty offers a comprehensive range of postgraduate programmes, including the specialised Master of Laws (LLM) degrees that respond to evolving global legal challenges. The LLM in Energy and Environmental Law (LEL), launched in 2018-2019, stands as Hong Kong's pioneer programme in energy security and sustainability law. The newest addition, the LLM in Legal History (LLH), introduced in 2022-2023, represents as one of the few global programmes dedicated to transnational legal history Faculty's commitment to research excellence is exemplified through its specialised research centres. The Centre for Comparative and Transnational Law (CCTL) supports collaborative research through eight specialised clusters, while the Centre for Legal Innovation and Digital Society (CLINDS) drives innovative research in law and Faculty's global reach extends to prestigious partnerships, including dual programmes with The Dickson Poon School of Law, King's College London, offering students the opportunity to earn two degrees from world-class institutions in four Faculty's international outlook is reflected in its diverse student body, representing over 60 countries and regions. It also offers students valuable opportunities and resources to collaborate with scholars across various fields, deepening their understanding and opening new avenues for their work. PhD candidate Tajra Smajic, a Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) awardee from Bosnia and Herzegovina, expressed her appreciation for her experience at CUHK Faculty of Law: "CUHK's dynamic research environment and HKPFS support have enriched my academic journey immensely. The programme enables global engagement through international conferences and summer schools, fostering valuable professional connections." Tajra is currently interning at the United Nations Legal Office, Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS), applying her knowledge in real-world experts like Professor Anatole Boute continue to shape global legal discourse. Professor Boute, specialising in energy, environmental, and investment law, received the prestigious Richard Macrory Prize for Best Article 2021 from the Journal of Environmental Law, Oxford University Press. His research has provided national energy authorities evidence-based suggestions which contributed to shape better energy market regulation in Central Asia while improving the cost of clean energy ahead, CUHK LAW remains committed to advancing legal education and research while fostering global partnerships that prepare the next generation of legal professionals for an increasingly interconnected more information about CUHK LAW's postgraduate programmes, visit: Hashtag: #CUHK The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About CUHK Founded in 1963, CUHK combines tradition with innovation in teaching and research, maintaining strong global partnerships to address real-world challenges.
Khaleej Times
29-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
University of Dundee: New degrees to cater to the rising demand of AI professionals
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping various sectors, including business, healthcare, communication, and design. To address the increasing global demand for AI professionals, the University of Dundee has introduced two new postgraduate degrees. Applications are now open for the first intake in September 2025, with a second intake available in January 2026. These innovative courses equip students with the knowledge, skills, and vision necessary to thrive in an AI-driven world. This advanced course provides a comprehensive foundation in AI theory along with practical applications. Students will explore machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and intelligent systems, gaining hands-on experience in developing real-world AI solutions. Ethical and responsible AI is a core focus, helping students understand the societal impacts of AI and its role in decision-making. Designed for those aspiring to lead in AI research or development, this course is taught by experts actively engaged in the field. Software development for MSc in artificial intelligence Targeted at students with little or no prior computing experience, this conversion course serves as a gateway into the tech sector. It combines core programming and software development skills with specialized AI training. Graduates will be prepared to design and develop intelligent systems, ready to meet the demands of one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world. This course is ideal for career changers or professionals seeking to reskill in an exciting and impactful field. A hub for research, innovation, and industry collaboration The University of Dundee's Computing department is at the forefront of AI research, addressing real-world challenges in healthcare, smart cities, and more. Students benefit from strong industry connections, access to guest lectures, internship opportunities, and collaborative projects that enhance their learning experiences. A global learning community in Scotland Scotland is renowned for its academic excellence and innovation, making it a top choice for international students. Dundee provides an inclusive and supportive environment with a diverse student body and a vibrant campus life. Students from around the world choose Dundee for its excellent reputation, quality of life, and affordability. The city's blend of cultural attractions and natural beauty creates an inspiring place to live and study. Be among the first to join As AI technology continues to evolve, the demand for professionals who can develop, implement, and lead intelligent technologies is increasing. Whether you're a recent graduate, a professional looking to reskill, or someone seeking a future-proof career, these new MSc courses offer the tools, training, and support necessary for success. Applications are now open for the first intake in September 2025, with a second opportunity to enrol in January 2026.
