IEA critiques UK university system, citing changing graduate prospects

The Institute of Economic Affairs published a book, *The Higher Education Delusion: What’s Gone Wrong with the UK’s Universities?*, which provides a critique of the modern university system. The report notes that while over 518,000 students started higher education this autumn, and 51% of young people will attend a university or college by age 25, the prospects for today's graduates have fundamentally changed. The IEA warns that the promise of a better-paid career from a degree is no longer being fulfilled for many.

The critique examines student finance, graduate employment, and earnings, noting that English universities can charge up to £9,790 a year in tuition fees. The IEA suggests that the current system is failing both students and taxpayers.