Members of university and college lecturers' union Natfhe are being consulted on industrial action, after the union rejected higher education employers' final pay offer.
The offer, 3.5 per cent, is the same as for all other bargaining groups, including the old universities, which are already in the throes of industrial action, with examination disruptions planned in more than 25 universities this month.
Natfhe, which had asked for a 10 per cent rise, is canvassing branches and individual members on action including strikes, disruption of exams and boycotts of quality assessments. But it has ruled out action that would disrupt admissions and clearing.
Consultative ballot papers will go out over the next few days, with results expected towards the end of July. If the outcome of the consultation supports industrial action, a formal ballot will take place early next term.