Is gender equality still an issue in higher education?

While women are usually well represented in universities as a whole, there remains a serious lack of women in senior positions, particularly in academic posts. The latest data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency show that only 14 per cent of university vice-chancellors are women, and only 19 per cent of professors are women. Occupational segregation also means that the representation of women is even lower in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) departments, with just 16 per cent of professors being women, and significantly fewer in computer science and engineering.

Likewise, male students are under-represented in disciplines such as teaching and nursing, and male staff are under-represented in administrative and support roles.

In order to achieve a better balance of women and men across disciplines and grades, and between academic and support staff, universities need to develop progressive policies and activities to develop the careers of both genders in equal measure. Policies that help advance women's careers include flexible working, maternity, work–life balance and career-break policies. Universities can also implement a number of activities that support career progression, such as mentoring and networking for female academics, and action learning and training sessions to develop skills and confidence.