Northumbria University, Newcastle, has been nominated for the prestigious University of the Year award in Times Higher Education (THE) Awards 2017.
Described as the ‘Oscars of UK higher education’ the awards attract hundreds of entries each year that exemplify talent, dedication and innovation across all aspects of university life. Northumbria is one of just six institutions to be shortlisted for the award, which recognises exceptional performance as well as bold, imaginative and innovative initiatives that have advanced the institution’s reputation during the academic year 2015/16.
Progress was notable in 2015/16 with significant investment in research and teaching. Strong results in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework propelled Northumbria into the top 50 in the UK for research power.
Experiential learning is a stylistic trait of Northumbria University and this was further demonstrated with launch of the Business Clinic in 2015/16, where student teams enhance their learning and career prospects by providing free consultancy advice to real business clients. A nursing scheme with Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust allowing those with healthcare experience to become nurses in just 18 months was a UK-first, and an example of Northumbria responding to demand and leading the sector.
Growth in the reputation of Northumbria’s post-graduate offering, alongside investments in scholarships, saw a 44% increase in students choosing the University during this period, double the market growth. The institution was also among the few universities to see the entry tariff points for undergraduate students rise as more highly qualified students applied. At the same time, a successful initiative to widen participation in higher education saw more students join Northumbria from low income households,
Professor Andrew Wathey CBE, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Northumbria University, said: “To be shortlisted for these highly coveted awards is a hugely significant achievement for everyone at Northumbria, and a clear testament to the hard work and commitment of staff across the entire University. Our nomination is a clear acknowledgement of the significant progress we are making in delivering our strategic vision as a new kind of excellent university.”