The establishment of new academic partnership arrangements or link
agreements, both in the UK and internationally, follows a set approval
process and operating framework. Proposals for new partnerships or link
agreements may originate from a range of sources. The nature of the proposed
partnership activity may fall into one of
A two-stage approval process applies to all
The operating framework for the approval of new academic partnerships and link arrangements must align with the core mission of our University, being excellence in research and excellence in education, as set out in our Strategic Plan.
The following principles apply when departments or faculties are considering new academic partnerships or link arrangements.
The University’s strategic framework for partnerships (.pdf, Essex users only) has been developed to guide decisions relating to partnerships and to ensure that all partnership activities are aligned with, and contribute to the University’s Strategic Plan and supporting Education Strategy and Research Strategy. The primary focus of the framework is collaborative partnerships leading to University of Essex awards delivered by or with a partner institution, but it is also intended to be of relevance to all forms of education and research partnership.
The Partnerships team can provide advice, guidance and support on what to do if you are considering putting forward a proposal to form a new partnership. When a new academic partnership or link agreement has been approved, a legal contract or memorandum of understanding will be produced by the Partnerships team, who will also arrange for it to be signed by the appropriate senior member of staff at our University. All academic partnership contracts and link agreements contain a clause to allow for termination of the arrangement prior to the agreement or contract end date. If this is to be enacted, the Partnerships team should be contacted in the first instance.