- What does an external examiner do?
- How are external examiners appointed?
- What are external examiner reports?
- Can I see the external examiner report for my programme?
What does an external examiner do?
External examiners provide an independent view of the academic standards and quality of University programmes and modules.
They help the University check that:
- academic standards are appropriate
- assessment processes are fair
- standards are comparable with similar awards at other UK universities
- good practice and opportunities to improve programmes are identified
External examining is an important part of the University's quality assurance process. The University's External Examiners' handbook describes it as a way of ensuring that standards of degrees and other awards are comparable with those at other UK institutions.
How are external examiners appointed?
The University appoints external examiners mainly from other universities, as well as from industry and professional organisations.
External examiners are:
- qualified and experienced in their subject
- familiar with the academic standards required for the award
- independent of the University of Hertfordshire
They are members of the relevant Board of Examiners, but decisions are made collectively by the Board rather than by an external examiner individually.
What are external examiner reports?
External examiners provide the University with an annual written report.
Their reports are based on their observations of the University's assessment processes and samples of student work. They provide independent feedback about programmes and modules.
The University's current External Examiners' Handbook also includes specific guidance on the submission and consideration of annual reports.
Can I see the external examiner report for my programme?
Yes. External examiner reports are made available to student representatives as part of the University's annual monitoring process.
If you're not a student representative, you can request a copy of the external examiner reports for your programme.
Email aqo@herts.ac.uk and include:
- your student ID number
- the full title of your programme
- your current year or level of study
Can I contact an external examiner?
No. You must not contact an external examiner directly about your programme or studies.
If you have a concern, use the appropriate University complaints or academic appeals process instead.