Assessing graduate attributes: the development and validation of the Kingston Graduate Attributes Questionnaire (KGAQ)

Developing assessment tools to make graduate attribute development visible, measurable, and actionable is essential for demonstrating educational excellence in UK higher education. This study presents findings from the development of the Kingston Graduate Attributes Questionnaire (KGAQ), designed to assess undergraduate students’ development across nine key graduate skills. Two pilot phases were conducted between January 2025 and May 2025: Pilot 1 utilised a 93-item Likert-scale instrument with 264 participants; Pilot 2 refined the instrument to 85 items and was tested with 651 students. Through comprehensive statistical analyses including reliability testing, exploratory factor analysis, correlation, cluster analysis, and confirmatory factor analysis, we developed a psychometrically sound tool. The results demonstrated strong internal consistency and confirmed the intended structure. Insights from this scale will aid in assessing graduate attributes across various levels of undergraduate study and demographic groups such as ethnicity, socio-economic background, and other widening participation groups, as well as exploring their interrelations. The KGAQ will have applications in higher education, guiding curriculum development and student support.