On-island university course link-up continues

Students can choose from more than 40 degrees available on the island

A partnership which allows students to study higher education courses on the Isle of Man to degree level is set to continue until 2030.

Manx pupils can currently choose between more than 40 courses, including nursing and business management, at University College Isle of Man (UCM).

All degrees offered at the government-funded centre are then validated externally by the University of Chester.

Education Minister Daphne Caine said the move "reinforced our commitment" to equip pupils with the qualifications needed "to enter a competitive job market".

Last year, about 87% of UCM students achieved top grades, and 91% landed graduate-level jobs upon or before graduation.

Eunice Simmons (left) signed the agreement on behalf of the University of Chester

The agreement between the Department of Education, Sport and Culture and the University of Chester was first signed in 1997.

It means UCM students can take the available courses without leaving the island and provides access to the English university’s resources and learning platforms.

Eunice Simmons, vice chancellor of the University of Chester, said it was a "pleasure to visit UCM and renew our agreement for a further six years".

"In addition to ensuring high quality degrees, we aim to jointly seek funding to support research and knowledge exchange, particularly in relation to the island’s Unesco biosphere designation," Prof Simmons said.

Caine said the "important partnership underlines the department’s commitment to educational excellence" by delivering higher education and "lifelong learning".

It also "reinforces our commitment to provide students with on-island degrees that equip them with the skills and qualifications required to enter a competitive job market", she added.