University College Birmingham graduands on University of Warwick accredited courses will be celebrating today, marking the first successful graduating cohort from the partnership between the two universities.

The graduation ceremony will see over 300 students graduate at Symphony Hall, International Convention Centre in Birmingham on 13th September 2023.

Courses graduating as part of the ceremony include Finance and Accounting, Aviation and Airport Management, International Tourism Management, Culinary Arts Management, Enterprise Management and Sports Therapy.

Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Michael Harkin will welcome attendees along with Professor Stuart Croft, Vice Chancellor and President of University of Warwick.

Professor Michael Harkin said: “Congratulations to all students graduating today. The partnership between University College Birmingham and the University of Warwick has already offered opportunities and experiences to hundreds of students, providing life-changing education to ensure our students are well-placed for a flourishing career.

“Together, we are delivering on a commitment to do more for our students, our staff, our industry partners, and our region. As new graduates embark on their careers, our students have now become a part of delivering on that commitment. We are already very proud of the achievements of our graduates, the contributions that they are making to their communities, and the examples they have set for future University College Birmingham graduates, and we will continue to celebrate their ongoing successes.”

Professor Stuart Croft said: “The partnership we have with University College Birmingham is unique, working together to transform the lives of students and helping to deliver many of the skills that will be highly sought after by local employers for our region. I am pleased today to see the first cohort graduating with degrees accredited by The University of Warwick. We wish them every success with their future careers.”

With world-class facilities, exceptional teaching and broad employer networks across both institutions, the partnership has seen students obtain new opportunities that bolster their skills and employability.

Amongst our graduands are our Creative Future incubatees. Originating at the University of Warwick, the Creative Future incubator at University College Birmingham empowers creative students with a business idea by providing a powerful support package. Now in its second year, the six-month programme sees the entrepreneurs receive a grant, marketing and business workshops, as well as one-to-one business advice.

The two universities also worked together on the student-led co-creation project: Practising Inclusive Education Curriculum, Campus and Community. Through a series of workshops, staff and students developed a community of practice in inclusive education across topics such as community values, anti-racist practice, inclusive assessment and queer/trans inclusion.

The Universities continue to work on projects aiming to bring positive impact and change for our people, our place and our partners.