Data Observatory

The UK Postgraduate Data Observatory is an innovative project aimed at enhancing our understanding of the access and participation landscape for postgraduate study and research.

There is growing sector and ministerial interest in access to postgraduate study and research. Developing a better understanding of postgraduate admissions trends and access gaps is the first step toward building the tailored and targeted strategies necessary to address the barriers experienced by minoritised groups.

In the absence of a centralised postgraduate admissions system , members of the Data Observatory will work together to collect a consistent set of applicant characteristic data that goes beyond standard equalities monitoring and provides a richer picture of not only who applies to postgraduate degree programmes, but who is offered and able to accept a place.

The project, coordinated by the University of Leeds, builds on learning developed through a three-year pilot project and welcomes, as well as supports, the participation of whole institutions, Doctoral Training Partnerships, Centres for Doctoral Training, Collaborative Doctoral Partnerships and other providers of postgraduate education.