Mooc test agreement between FutureLearn and Pearson

The deal will allow Mooc students to take certified tests at one of the organisation’s global network of secure exam centres.

The University of East Anglia’s “secret Power of brands” and the University of Strathclyde’s “introduction to forensic science” are among the first courses available for assessment, although FutureLearn said there were plans to introduce more.

The standard cost of a FutureLearn exam is £119, although there is some variation. Passing the tests will not earn students any academic credit.

“More and more of our learners, particularly those on career-enhancing courses, want to take exams to demonstrate their mastery of a subject,” said Simon Nelson, chief executive of FutureLearn, which is owned by the Open University

Matthew Poyiadgi, vice-president of Europe, Middle East and Africa at Pearson VUE, added: “FutureLearn’s model offers another route to learning and potentially onto a professional certification pathway, which fits perfectly with our history of delivering important and trusted exams.”

Times Higher Education asked FutureLearn about the financial arrangements with Pearson VUE, including the percentage of fee revenue going to each company, and the amount received by partner universities. A spokeswoman said that these details could not be shared as they were “commercially sensitive”.

chris.parr@tesglobal.com