Brighton University enables more students across Sussex to study for a degree

Brighton University is to validate degrees for Central Sussex College, enabling more students to have a graduate-level education.

Undergraduates will be starting courses at the University Centre for Central Sussex in Crawley in September.

The aims include providing local and flexible higher level skills and qualifications for adults and employers and cost-effective opportunities for young people who might not otherwise have continued their studies.

Colin Monk, Brighton University’s pro-vice-chancellor for business and marketing, said: “We very much support the new university centre and are delighted to be involved with what is a significant milestone in the provision of higher education opportunities in central Sussex.

“We wish the university centre every success and look forward to working with our partners to encourage more people in the Crawley area into higher education and to provide them with easier access to obtaining new qualifications and skills, and to assist with their career progressions.”

Courses being offered from September include a Bachelor of Science (BSc) honours degree top-up degree in electronic engineering for students who have completed a Higher National Diploma (HND).

The university centre will also offer HNDs in sustainable building and creative media production and professional and postgraduate qualifications.

University bosses hope to encourage more young people in Crawley and the wider Gatwick Diamond area to become students because participation in higher education is below the national average.

Henry Smith, the Conservative MP for Crawley, said: “Historically less than a fifth of Crawley young people have gone on to higher education despite the world-leading and innovative companies we have here.

“Providing more convenient access to university and good quality employment will enhance local opportunities.”