The framework also sets out, in an explicit manner, the qualifications on offer to employers and that employers and others can use in providing continuing professional development for the workforce. The framework will provide help to learners, employers and the public in general in understanding, and making use of, the range of qualifications awarded by higher education institutions. Researchers questioned a cross section of UK employers, selected to be representative by location, size, and industry sector. Employers want universities to put their house in order. The Masters title causes much misunderstanding.
Most employers think that it always represents an award for postgraduate study.
Initials often mislead. Doctorates and Diplomas, both often abbreviated to 'D', are a rich source of confusion. Most employers recognise the well-known PhD, but not other Doctorates. Even first degrees cause difficulty. This degree of confusion helps no-one' said QAA Chief Executive John Randall.