External expertise must be included in programme proposals. In programme approval, the involvement of individuals external to the University is required to offer independence and objectivity to the decisions taken. Examples of individuals external to the University who could be involved include: Academic or professional services staff from other higher education institutions External examiners Representatives from professional, statutory and regulatory bodies Employers Sector networks Alumni Involvement could be in the form of email communication, written submission (varying from initial input to a formal report), or attendance at relevant meetings either virtually or in person (e.g. validation meeting in the College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine). This article was published on 2024-07-29