Students need proper support, not gimmicks

UCU added that the massive increase in tuition fees, together with cuts in financial support for college students,risked ensuring that financial concerns become the dominant factors behind students' university choices.

UCU general secretary, Sally Hunt, said: 'Unless the government changes policy and invests more in supporting potential students, this new website will go the way of previous similar initiatives.

'Students need proper support, not gimmicks. The website's emphasis on cost and financial benefits leaves the government at risk of accusations that it is merely trying to justify the massively increased cost of degrees.

'Despite the government's policies, going to university is still a life-changing experience for the individual and a huge benefit for society. Yet choosing a degree is about much more than just looking on a website for those courses which might earn you the most money or are nearest to home.'

Commenting on the National Student Survey (NSS) also released today, Sally Hunt, said: 'Although the NSS is a blunt tool that has been used to apply even greater pressure on staff, there are once again improved and very high levels of student satisfaction. It is important to get the full picture and understand that going to university is a quite individual experience.

'We would encourage students to visit any institution they are considering attending and not just rely on the NSS scores or the new website launched today.'