IMechE: how we back work-based learning

Dear Sir Only time will tell what will be the impact of increased tuition fees on aspiring engineers with reference to . However, student debt is not a prerequisite of professional registration or institution membership and it is indeed possible to "mount the first step of the ladder to full membership" without an accredited degree. Furthermore, applicants must demonstrate more than academic learning; competence and commitment are the twin foundations of professional registration and institution membership. The profession has, and continues to make, significant progress in responding to changing engineering practice, maintaining internationally standards and making assessment more flexible and straightforward. Accredited degrees exemplify the academic benchmark for Chartered Engineer, at MEng, and Incorporated Engineer, at BEng. However, learning can be demonstrated through experience and / or qualifications - accredited or not. In recent years the profession has worked with universities and employers to pilot work-based-learning degrees, masters and bachelors, linked directly to the requirements for Chartered and Incorporated Engineer. With respect to engineering technicians we support moves to increase their number and esteem. The Institution of Mechanical Engineers, for example, works with employers and colleges to register Apprentices and offers complete parity of membership "rights" with Chartered and Incorporated Engineers. That said, there is no room for complacency. We remain concerned about the possible effects of the dramatic increase in tuition fees and will act to ameliorate any adverse affects of the change. Solving problems is, after all, what engineers do. Yours sincerely Chris Kirby Head of Education Institution of Mechanical Engineers