The EPC Model for Quality Assurance in Higher Education

This paper describes a formalized approach to quality assurance for higher education institutions. The approach has been developed in the UK by the Engineering Professors’ Conference (EPC). The EPC approach is based on the same principles of quality assurance as ISO 9000, but also includes appropriate elements of total quality management. These concepts are briefly discussed together with an opinion on the suitability of ISO 9000 for quality assurance in higher education. The EPC model is explained and a top-down approach to the development of an institutional quality system is described. Key areas which have an important impact on the quality of education are identified, in particular the need for a sustained and efficient quality improvement programme. The pivotal role of the academic department is identified, together with appropriate quality assurance requirements. The quality assurance requirements for supporting services and administration are also described, as these play an important role in the quality of education. Excerpts from the EPC standard and guidelines are provided, to illustrate the requirements and interpretation of the approach.