Two Scottish universities, the University of Stirling and Heriot-Watt University, have already established cooperation with the private company Study Group. They offer courses that provide direct access to the second year in a four-year program.

English universities are now entering into similar partnerships. One of them is Keele University. According to Study Group, foreign students with top high-school Graduation grades are offered 11 600 pound (equiv. over 140 000 SEK) to participate in a one-year course which gives a chance to a spot in a program at the university level.

The students will read a number of modules which are developed by the University, but given by the Study Group. It offers courses with a focus on IT, economics and international relations, and special assistance in English.

Teachers' union at Keele University has criticized the plans and believes there is a risk that a private "shadow university" are created on campus. They also argue that the study effort required of students in a year is excessive.


                                                                                           Cecilia Helland