Harper Adams first in Shropshire to gain status as university
An agricultural college in Shropshire is celebrating today after being given full university status – making it the county's first university.
Harper Adams University College in Edgmond, near Newport, was awarded its new title by the Privy Council yesterday.
It has also become the first university in Britain dedicated to agri-food science.
It comes after millions of pounds of investment at Harper Adams in recent years, including new teaching facilities, student accommodation and an anaerobic digester.
Principal Dr David Llewellyn, who will now become founding vice-chancellor of Harper Adams, said he was delighted.
"From day one, we have become a strong, new member of the university community," said Dr Llewellyn.
"We have shown how we match up to other universities in our position in the Sunday Times University Guide where, this year, we are first for graduate employment and third for teaching excellence.
"With the change in title, we are now the leading university in the country for rural and land-based higher education.
"Our fine tradition of innovative, applied agri-food research, of direct relevance to industry and a recognised national priority, will only be enhanced by this change."
Wrekin MP Mark Pritchard said the move would be a boost for the whole of Shropshire.
