MillionPlus

MillionPlus. It is a prominent United Kingdom association representing modern universities and other higher education institutions, often described as the "Association for Modern Universities". Founded in 1997, the organization advocates for its member institutions on national policy issues, focusing on teaching, research, and the student experience within the contemporary higher education sector. Its work is central to debates on widening participation, social mobility, and the economic impact of universities across the regions and nations of the UK.

History

The organization was established in 1997, a period of significant expansion and change in UK higher education following the Further and Higher Education Act 1992, which granted university title to many former polytechnics. Its founding members were institutions that had gained their university status in or after 1992, often termed 'post-92' or modern universities. Key early figures in its development included vice-chancellors from institutions like the University of East London and London Metropolitan University. The group has consistently engaged with major policy shifts, including the introduction of tuition fees under the Teaching and Higher Education Act 1998, the establishment of the Office for Students, and the reforms following the Browne Review.

Membership and structure

Membership comprises over twenty institutions across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, including the University of Brighton, Edinburgh Napier University, Cardiff Metropolitan University, and Ulster University. These members are typically characterized by a strong vocational and professional focus, extensive links with regional businesses and National Health Service trusts, and a commitment to widening access for students from diverse backgrounds. The association is governed by a board of its member vice-chancellors and is supported by a secretariat based in London. Key committees focus on areas such as research, education, and international policy.

Policy and advocacy work

The organization conducts extensive policy analysis and advocacy, frequently submitting evidence to parliamentary inquiries by the House of Commons Education Committee and engaging with government departments like the Department for Education. Its core policy themes include sustainable funding for teaching and research, promoting the role of universities in regional economic development through partnerships with Local Enterprise Partnerships, and championing lifelong learning and degree apprenticeships. It has been a vocal participant in debates on the Research Excellence Framework, the Teaching Excellence Framework, and post-study work visas for international students.

Leadership and governance

The association is led by a chair, typically a serving vice-chancellor from a member institution, and a chief executive who heads the professional secretariat. The current chair is Professor Rama Thirunamachandran, Vice-Chancellor of Canterbury Christ Church University. The chief executive is Rachel Hewitt, a former director at the Higher Education Policy Institute. The board of directors includes leaders from institutions such as the University of Hertfordshire, Birmingham City University, and Leeds Beckett University. Past notable chairs have included professors from Kingston University and the University of West London.

Impact and recognition

The organization is widely recognized as a key stakeholder in UK higher education, regularly cited in media outlets like the Times Higher Education and the BBC. Its research reports on graduate outcomes, university funding, and the economic impact of the modern university sector are influential in shaping policy discourse. The group works collaboratively with other sector bodies, including Universities UK, the Russell Group, and GuildHE, on issues of common concern. Its advocacy has contributed to policy developments in areas such as the National Student Survey, access and participation plans regulated by the Office for Students, and innovation funding through UK Research and Innovation.

Category:Higher education organizations Category:Organizations based in London Category:Education in the United Kingdom