NZQA, a body which considers itself to be expert in the field of qualifications, seems unconcerned about the brain drain in New Zealand. Rather than trying to attract graduates from the top universities around the world, NZQA is actively devaluing their degrees.
A graduate from Oxford University who had moved with his family from Britain believing that his salary as a teacher would take into account his masters degree was astounded to learn that his masters degree has no value in New Zealand. "I just wish we had known before coming here" comments David Powell. "I worked hard for my qualifications and it is insulting to be told that they are worthless. My past experiences in other countries has led me to believe that my degrees have a good international reputation. If my qualifications are not wanted in New Zealand we should have been told before coming here. NZQA was aware of all the facts before we left Britain and my school considered my qualifications good enough to offer me a job, yet it is only after we have arrived here and committed ourselves to some sort of stay, that I get told that my masters degree is not as good as a New Zealand masters. I just wish they had offered the job to a New Zealander instead of bringing me here from the other side of the world just to rubbish my qualifications."
The reason why NZQA does not accept masters degrees from Oxford University is that the course of study leading to the award of the bachelors and masters degrees usually lasts three years. The less intensive courses at most other British universities last at least four years, as is the case in New Zealand. NZQA therefore considers this masters degree to be an "honorary" degree, awarded for no study, but, perhaps, to give credit for services to the community.
A quick glance at the web site of Oxford University reveals that they provide courses that last three years, four years, or even one year postgraduate masters courses for graduates of other universities. Students obviously will be encouraged to opt for the course which suits their ability. In spite of this, the intensive nature of the courses and the high expectations of the university cause a high dropout rate. As is common practice, Oxford University also award honorary degrees. As David Powell states "a quick glance at my degree certificate shows that it is neither an honorary degree nor a degree from a second-rate university. The university has many controls in place to maintain their standards. The reputation which Oxford University holds was not achieved by awarding degrees where they were not deserved but NZQA have been quite adamant that this is their policy and there is 'no point' in appealing."
After writing many letters and, indeed, after publishing this site, the Oxford MA degree has now been recognised by the Ministry of Education and the appropriate salary adjustments have been made. NZQA, however, do not as yet recognise the degree.
Because this result seems to be in part due to speaking out, and because of the many emails received telling of similar experiences, here is a contact form where you can speak out about any NZQA-related issue. Unless your messages states otherwise, your comments may be published on nzqa.co.nz. Please, however, if you want to ask NZQA something, you should visit their site.
I knew that the right decision had been made when I contacted the payroll service to ask what would happen to a pay rise that should have come through a couple of months before I left. They just laughed at me.