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Validation

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Validation refers to the process by which new courses are considered for approval at the University of Northampton.

The process aims to ensure that all proposed new courses are as current as possible, provide an excellent student experience and prepare students for graduate employment. Therefore, the process aims to meet the needs of the following stakeholders:

  • Students
  • Employers
  • Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies (PSRBs)
  • Academic partners
  • University staff (both academic and professional services)

The validation process also ensures that all proposed new courses are aligned with the University of Northampton’s current Strategic Plan and that all external requirements are met, particularly in relation to the Conditions of registration with the Office for Students, Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) Subject Benchmark Statements and the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) along with the requirements of any Professional/Statutory/Regulatory Bodies (PSRBs).

The validation process at the University of Northampton is underpinned by externality, peer review and the student voice being central to all considerations. Validation events are normally held online.

Academic Quality oversees the validation process on behalf of the Academic Quality and Standards Committee (AQSC) and ensures that the process is proportionate to the scope of each new course being put forward for approval, whilst also being robust and transparent.

Course Teams developing new courses should bear in mind the need to validate their proposals in good time to allow an appropriate period for marketing and recruitment. It is recommended that a validation event should normally take place no later than 12 months prior to the new course commencing.

For more details please see the Validation Handbook. This is currently being updated for 2026-27, and the new version will be considered at AQSC on 5 October 2026.

General queries in relation to the validation process can be sent to validations@northampton.ac.uk.