Increase in common entry degrees among reform ideas

Three areas of reform were identified for closer examination by the Irish Universities Association in a report 18 months ago on overhauling college entry systems.

Among them was the idea of more common-entry degrees, as universities acknowledged that this could help reduce pressure and allow students more time to think about areas in which they would like to specialise.

The principle was put forward by Áine Hyland, a former professor of education at University College Cork, in a report that formed the basis of discussion at the 2011 Transitions conference. At the behest of Education Minister Ruairi Quinn, it was organised by the Higher Education Authority and National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, to examine college entry issues.