Research Assessment Exercise 2001 - Results (14.12.01)

The Surrey Institute of Art & Design University has scored a quality rating of 3a for Art and Design in the 2001 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE).

This means that the Institute's submission, made up of details of the research activities of its staff, was judged to be of a quality that equates to 'attainable levels of national excellence in over two-thirds of the research activity submitted, possibly showing evidence of international excellence'. The RAE ratings range from 1 through 2, 3b, 3a, 4 and 5 to the highest possible score of 5*, although no higher education institution scored a 5* in Art and Design.

Professor Elaine Thomas, Director of the Institute, welcomed the result saying, "As a specialist University, The Surrey Institute is committed to achieving research excellence as a means of sustaining subject quality. In the 2001 Research Assessment Exercise, we have made the highest improvement of all submissions in Art and Design, moving up three grades.

Our staff are to be congratulated on their success, as this grade improvement is an indication of the quality of their research, and the potential for future further success."

The results of the RAE, published on 14 December 2001, give an independent assessment of the quality of research conducted in universities and higher education colleges in the UK, and are used to inform the allocation of funds. The Institute's submission, based around the research output (exhibitions, films, books, journals, etc.) of selected members of staff, was judged by a panel of experienced researchers of high standing. The last RAE was carried out in 1996, when the Institute received a rating of 1 for Art and Design and 3b for Art History.

Note(s) to the Editor

1. The Surrey Institute of Art & Design, University is one of Europe's largest independent colleges specialising in art, design, media and communication. Based in Farnham and Epsom in Surrey, the Institute has nearly 3,000 students studying on over 30 programmes leading to diplomas, degrees and postgraduate qualifications.

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