I am delighted to announce that on 19th April 2021, by way of Statutory Instrument, Arden University was granted Indefinite Degree Awarding Powers (IDAP) with effect from 1st September 2021, under the Higher Education & Research Act 2017.
Following an extensive year-long review by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), and during a worldwide pandemic, we were able to demonstrate that we met all the criteria to be awarded IDAP.
QAA is the body designated by the Secretary of State to perform the strict quality and standards assessment functions required by the Higher Education and Research Act 2017.
A major milestone in the development of our University, although Arden had the authority to award degrees, until now it was time limited. We always had the vision and mission, however, to achieve this important milestone.
The QAA review concluded that Arden University is a “self-critical, cohesive academic community with a proven commitment to the assurance of standards supported by effective quality systems.” In submitting the application to Parliament, the Office for Students (OfS), said “the OfS is satisfied that the provider is eligible for indefinite TDAPs and continues to meet the DAPs criteria.”
This is testament to all our hard work, and that of former colleagues, who have shared, since 2015, in the journey of creating Arden University.
We are very proud of being granted IDAP, which will not only strengthen our deserved reputation, but even more importantly, positively impact the experience of students and colleagues alike.
Carl Lygo
Vice Chancellor
