- About postgraduate study
- Part-time study
- Courses
- Faculties
- UK students
- EU students
- International Students
- How to apply for your course
- Handy Hints
- Open Events
- Student Recruitment
- Money Matters
- About Us
6 Oct 2009 09:01:21
The University of Bedfordshire has been successful in its Statement of Intent to lead on ambitious development plans for the University Centre Milton Keynes (UCMK).
Success at the final stage will lead to a significant expansion in student numbers and a wider range of degree courses as well as closer links with the business community.
The news was announced by Hefce (the Higher Education Funding Council for England) as part of the Government’s A new University Challenge initiative.
This sets out the Government’s plans to open up opportunities for towns and cities to bid for new university campuses and higher education centres.
The Government’s objectives are that higher education centres should unlock the potential of towns and people, drive economic regeneration and demonstrate an ability to deliver.
The University is the lead institution in its bid to expand support for UCMK which already offers foundation degrees, a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), an executive MBA and other professional qualifications. Other partners are Milton Keynes College, the University of Northampton, the Open University and the University of Warwick.
University of Bedfordshire Vice Chancellor Professor Les Ebdon, CBE, said: “As lead institution we are delighted to have been successful at this key stage and now go forward to present the full business plan on this project.
“UCMK which opened last September is a fine example of a successful and long-standing initiative in Milton Keynes to deliver, local, high quality higher education provision to this new city.
“Milton Keynes is an increasingly important regional economy positioned for substantial further growth. It has a pressing need for a higher education institution which can up-skill and equip the local workforce for these challenges and new opportunities. Together with our partners the University of Bedfordshire can play a key role in doing this.”
UCMK Dean, Dr Keith Straughan, said: “We welcome the announcement and are delighted that our ambitious plans for UCMK have received national recognition.
“We have demonstrated that there is a clear demand for university provision in Milton Keynes to serve the local and regional economy. We believe that our innovative ideas for higher education and our effective partnerships make us well-placed to develop a stunning university provision here. This opportunity presents a wonderful next step on that journey.”
Dr Ann Limb, Chair of the Milton Keynes Higher Education Board, added: “This is a landmark announcement in the city’s long journey towards its own local university. The city is committed to working imaginatively with UCMK’s partners to deliver a resource which will underpin the city’s ambition to be a significant knowledge economy of national prominence.”
Latest news» 2009» October» University vision for UCMK one step closer
