University College Falmouth (UCF) is to be granted full university status in a move that will further its ambition to become one of the top five arts universities in the world.
David Willetts, Minister of State for Universities and Science, today recognised Falmouth’s status as a full university following a rigorous appraisal process.
Subject to final Privy Council approval, University College Falmouth is expected to become Falmouth University by the end of 2012, and is Cornwall’s first university.
Over the last ten years, Falmouth has seen student numbers triple to more than 4,000 and has benefitted from more than £100 million of investment in facilities at its two campuses in Falmouth and nearby Penryn.
Commenting on today’s announcement, Falmouth’s rector and chief executive, Professor Anne Carlisle, said: “Achieving full university title has been one of our key goals and speaks volumes for the quality of our teaching, facilities and governance. It is also the culmination of the efforts of many in Cornwall who have supported our aspirations over several years.
“This announcement will cement Falmouth University’s reputation for quality and innovation across all the art forms and further our drive to become one of the top five arts universities in the world.”
