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Government backs new private university
Mon 26 Jul 2010
The government has announced that BPP College of Professional Studies has been awarded a University College title.
This marks the first time a private sector education provider has been granted this status since 1976.
According to universities minister David Willetts, having a vibrant private sector working alongside traditional universities would offer a number of advantages.
For instance, he said it would help to widen access to higher education, promote innovative learning methods and place more attention on the quality of teaching.
Mr Willetts stated that the government is committed to promoting a wider range of educational opportunities and matching the skills demanded by employers in Britain.
He added that the coalition is aiming to produce a higher education sector that is dynamic, flexible and focused on the needs of both businesses and students.
However, the University and College Union has warned against encouraging the growth of private higher education providers in the UK.
The group said the move is likely to be very unpopular with university academics.
Stephen Hart, a senior solicitor at Winckworth Sherwood, commented: "The award of university status to BPP demonstrates the increasing choice in the HE sector.
"The private sector is an additional and alternative string for HE institutions, particularly those which are offering professional post-grad qualifications.
"With increasing cuts in the public sector, private institutions may be more attractive, to both students and academics."
