Results from an independent study published by YUSU and the Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) have shown generally high levels of student satisfaction with their degrees, though alarming areas of weaknesses have been revealed in some academic departments.

The independent report made by YUSU and the GSA, includes areas covered in the Quality Assurance Agency’s institutional audit, such as facilities, departmental feedback and supervisory support. Departments such as Computer Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths flourish in most categories, while weaknesses are apparent in Management, PEP and Education.

Although only 25% of students responded to the student survey, the results still show the main trends and highlight key problems.

When students were asked how they would rate the facilities needed to complete their degree at York, 79% of those who completed the survey rated them as either ‘Good’ or ‘Excellent’. The majority of students within this rating category were from Science related departments where facilities such as labs are considered to be vital for degree programmes.

69% of students rated the library resources as either ‘Good’ or ‘Excellent’. No department rated the library as ‘Excellent’ overall and complaints were made about the limited amount of books available to students, particularly in the humanities.

82% of students understood the way their degree was classified, with 55% believing that they knew exactly what was expected of them to be successful. About 65% of students felt that the supervisory support they received was either ‘Good’ or ‘Excellent’.

77% thought that the number of contact hours received by students was ‘About Right’ or ‘Adequate’. However some students have said that the amount of time was lower than it should be, particularly with regards to arts degrees. One English student quoted in the survey has said “motivation is difficult to find, even among the most dedicated students, when you are only required to attend one two-hour seminar per week.”

Although 87% of students rated departmental feedback as satisfactory or better, there was a huge discrepancy between subjects. 22% of those who completed the survey felt that academic feedback was ‘Poor’ or ‘Appalling’. This figure comprised a large number of PEP, Politics, Electronics and Economics students.

Academic and Welfare Officer, Grace Fletcher-Hall said: “I’ve been working with the University on a proposal for common assessment periods, which will hopefully mean assessed work can be marked faster and thus give more opportunity for improved feedback.”

She continued: “Other issues such as contact hours may require more of a culture change, but I really think it’s important for us to keep up the pressure as these issues are vitally important to students.”

Combined degrees were criticised for poor communication between departments, which has resulted in confusion for students who have constantly to switch between departments to find information. Different mark schemes were also highlighted as a problem.

73% of students believed the amount of assessed and procedural work set was ‘About Right’. However, Management and Education students expressed concern at not receiving enough procedural assignments.

Graduates were shown to feel that the provision of research space and resources is generally good, however study areas in departments such as English and History of Art are well below average, especially for long research projects.

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