Uni of Greenwich and Kent to merge to form first ‘super-university’ 

The University of Greenwich and the University of Kent are set to merge to create a new “super-university”, with the proposed name of the London and South East University Group.

According to the University of Greenwich, the new model brings both institutions under one structure whilst each university retains its name, identity and local presence.

The move creates a “first-of-its-kind” multi university group, which will create a blueprint for other institutions to follow. 

The new university group will become one of the largest higher education institutions in the UK and the largest in the South of England and the biggest recruiter of students in London and the South East.

The work to merge is expected to conclude by the end of the year, with a decision on the implementation timescale shortly after.

If approved, it is anticipated the London and South East University Group will be established for the 2026/2027 academic year.

The new ‘super university’ will have one unified governing body, academic board and executive team, and one vice-chancellor. The first vice-chancellor will be Professor Jane Harrington.

Students will continue to apply to, study at and graduate from their chosen university, “preserving each institution’s identity whilst benefitting from the scale and opportunities of the new group”.

The universities said the combined entity will “provide a strong financial foundation to weather current and future economic challenges, widen access to higher education across South East London and Kent, address skills gaps and inequalities, and increase research capacity, particularly in shared priority areas, such as food and sustainability, health and wellbeing and the creative industries”.

The two universities are working closely with the Department for Education and Office for Students on the move.

Professor Jane Harrington, vice chancellor of the University of Greenwich, said: “Our vision is to deliver education without boundaries, from city to coast. Combining the strengths of two proud institutions gives us a greater foundation to transform lives and unlock opportunity across London and the South East.

“Students will remain at the heart of everything we do, as we continue to provide innovative teaching, personalised support and a culture that celebrates individuality. As a civic university group, we will be a powerful force for our region – energising communities, upskilling local people and partnering with business to tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

Professor Georgina Randsley de Moura, acting vice chancellor and president of the University of Kent added: “This exciting collaboration is about harnessing the combined power of two ambitious universities looking to the future, to ensure we are sustainable, impactful and can make a bigger difference to the communities we serve.

“Together, we can deliver world-class teaching, grow research that tackles real-world challenges, and create new opportunities for people and places across our wider region. From supporting health and wellbeing to driving innovation in food, sustainability and the creative industries, our work will have impact locally, nationally and globally. Importantly, we will foster a culture where staff and students thrive, collaborate and succeed together.”

She added: “This is the start of an important journey and we are now entering a period of due diligence. Our aim is to be as transparent, open and inclusive as we can throughout the process, which is why we are sharing our plans at this stage.”