Universities 'giving out too many firsts'

Universities are being accused of "dumbing down" after it emerged that the number of first-class honours degrees awarded has risen by 50 per cent.

The Russell Group of 19 researchled universities, which includes Oxford and Cambridge, has increased the number of firsts dramatically in the last five years, sparking criticism that the system is being "devalued".

More than 15 per cent of students now graduate from the leading colleges with the highest award possible, compared with just over one in 10 in 1998. Figures also show that 6,314 firsts were awarded by the Russell Group in 1998, while the number rose to 9,475 last summer. Almost a third of degrees awarded by Cambridge are graded first class and about a quarter at Oxford.

The figures, compiled by the Higher Education Statistics Agency, were revealed in an answer to a written parliamentary question from Liberal Democrat Treasury spokesman Lord Oakeshott. He said: "It is difficult to believe that there has really been such a great leap forward in academic achievement.

"There must be something causing the universities to ease off on students-These figures give a sense of dumbing down at our leading universities." Lord Oakeshott has now written to Education Secretary Charles Clarke asking for an explanation.

He added: "Students and prospective employers need assurance that degree standards are reliable and stable, not devalued currency."