01
Academic Distinction
Recognition of outstanding academic performance.
Transcript recordInstitutional endorsementProgramme criteria
ACADEMIC DISTINCTIONS
Distinctions within the HIAHEA framework
THE FRAMEWORK
Five distinctions, one set of criteria
Each distinction is conferred against published criteria, documented evidence, and independent consideration where applicable.
ACADEMIC
02
Academic Excellence Award
Recognition of exceptional achievement within a programme or academic field.
Programme outcomesAssessment recordReferee statement
03
Professional Excellence Award
Recognition of significant professional achievement.
Professional recordEmployer statementImpact evidence
04
Leadership Award
Recognition of outstanding leadership and organisational contribution.
Role documentationOrganisational outcomesIndependent reference
05
Innovation Award
Recognition of innovative ideas, projects, research, or professional practice.
Project documentationResearch outputVerification of impact
HONORARY RECOGNITION
Conferred where appropriate, and only against established criteria
Where appropriate and subject to established criteria, HIAHEA may confer honorary recognition upon individuals who have demonstrated significant contributions to education, professional practice, industry, research, leadership, or society.
EducationProfessional practiceIndustryResearchLeadershipService to society
CONFERRAL
From nomination to conferral
01
Nomination
A nomination is submitted with supporting evidence.
02
Eligibility check
The submission is checked against the published criteria.
03
Assessment
Evidence is assessed, with independent consideration where applicable.
04
Conferral
The distinction is conferred, documented, and recorded.
NEXT STEP
Put a nomination forward, or ask us first
The awards office can confirm eligibility, criteria, evidence requirements, and timelines before you prepare a submission.