30 Years of NCUK Making TNE Happen?

In anticipation of the upcoming Transnational Education Conference 2024, NCUK has featured this blog to spotlight its 30-year journey as a pioneer in TNE. The post delves into NCUK’s innovative TNE models and successful partnerships in regions like Saudi Arabia, China, and South America.

Highlighting their impact on educational capacity, student outcomes, and economic development, NCUK also underscores how its initiatives continue to shape the global TNE landscape. As the event's networking partner, NCUK invites delegates to explore these insights further at the #TNE2024 drinks reception.

For over 30 years, the Northern Consortium of UK Universities (NCUK) has been at the forefront of Transnational Education (TNE), enabling students worldwide to pursue their academic goals.?

Founded in the late 1980s as a collaboration between 12 UK universities, NCUK initially offered a 1+2 model for Malaysian students to start their education in-country and finish in the UK. This success led to NCUK’s growth into a major pathway provider, helping over 50,000 students access top universities globally to date. Today, NCUK operates in more than 100 locations across more than 40 different countries, with students progressing to universities in key destinations like the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US.?

First Movers in TNE: NCUK's Global Initiatives?

NCUK's innovative spirit is evident in its role as a first mover in various TNE markets:?

1. Saudi Arabia: NCUK established the first pathway programme, and early TNE partnership in Saudi Arabia in collaboration with a school group, creating a 1+3 progression opportunity to NCUK’s network of universities.?(the numbering system has gone awry here)
2. Algeria: NCUK, in partnership with a private investor, established a training provider in Algeria that has expanded from a 1+3, to now include 2+2, and 3+1 with a full in-country delivery option with Aston University.??
3. Morrocco: Initially offering a 1+3 progression partnership at the Casablanca International Study Centre, NCUK developed this to become a 3+1 model, with the final year as part of a bespoke progression route to the University of Huddersfield.??
4. China: The Sino-British College is a multi-exit, in-country TNE model, offering flexibility and diverse outcomes in partnership with local universities. Flexible pathways opportunities like 1+3, and 2+2 are offered, as well as a full 4+0 opportunity with one of three university partners offering in-country degree completion routes. These include the University of Huddersfield, Liverpool John Moores University and Sheffield Hallam University.??
5. South Korea: Collaborating with a private tuition provider, IEN, NCUK has expanded its presence in Asia, catering to a growing demand for international education and allowing university partners to diversify into different East Asian markets.??
6. Ethiopia: As the first mover into this emerging African market, NCUK's Ethio International Study Centre supports educational diversification and capacity-building.?
7. Peru: By working with Universidad Privada de Ciencias Aplicadas, a leading private university in Peru, NCUK has established a significant presence in South America, addressing international educational needs. This partnership created 1+3 and 2+2 progression opportunities for students to advance to NCUK’s international university partners.??

Driving Growth and Development through NCUK’s TNE?

NCUK's TNE initiatives positively impact host countries by enhancing educational capacity, boosting economic development, and attracting new regional students. For example, 89% of NCUK International Year One students go on to achieve a 2:1 or higher in their university studies, and 80% of NCUK students were in employment within 6 months of graduating from university. These initiatives also support research growth and provide alternative revenue streams for partner institutions.??

Committed to supporting and managing TNE partnerships, NCUK provides off-the-shelf solutions that reduce risks, overcome operational challenges, and create clear educational pathways, making TNE accessible and effective. This approach enhances local education and ensures a seamless experience for students and partner institutions.?

NCUK once again looks forward to supporting UUKi’s TNE Conference this October, and welcoming delegates to the drinks reception on day one.?