SUMMARY This paper examines two approaches to quality in engineering higher education. The first is based on the use of industrial quality systems standards, such as BS 5750 and the ISO 9000 series. Such standards are reviewed and criticisms of this approach noted. The other approach is total quality management, which has become very popular in both manufacturing and service industries. The total quality concept is described and the central elements identified. Two practical quality improvement processes are described. Conclusions are drawn concerning the suitability of each approach for engineering higher education.