Massive funding boost for new technology university

Site of the proposed university Credit: MK:U

Plans for a new university in Milton Keynes have been given a £30 million funding boost.

Banking giant Santander has announced it is backing MK:U, the UK's first university focused on digital skills.

The bank is giving £10 million towards building costs, and will contribute 20 million towards running costs for the first three years.

The new college - which is expected to open in 2023 - is being developed by Cranfield University.

Professor Sir Peter Gregson, Chief Executive and Vice-Chancellor of Cranfield University said: “

More: New University to be built in Milton Keynes

Santander UK CEO Nathan Bostock said:

The new university aims to work in partnership with business to develop the talent and skills needed by nearby businesses like Santander – which employs over 5,000 people in Milton Keynes, out of a total UK workforce of around 24,000.

MK:U will have a strong focus on digital technologies. It will offer two-year degrees, higher apprenticeship-level qualifications, and work placements designed alongside employers. It will also provide a new cultural and civic heart for Milton Keynes, which has seen an annual population growth this century of over 17% and is forecast to be home to over 300,000 citizens by the middle of the next decade.

The curriculum will include content which is delivered and designed by industry partners – in fields like artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics.