The University of Cumbria has published its first Strategic Plan, which outlines its future goals and ambitions over the next five years.  Everything that the University intends to achieve from 2007 to 2012 is contained in the 56 page document, which is available to download on the University’s website. 

The plan identifies three strategic goals and five core themes around which all of the University’s future planning will be based.  Working in partnership with Cumbrian businesses, organisations and communities will be vital to its success and this is a common theme throughout the plan.

Providing more educational opportunities to Cumbria is a key aim, as is providing courses developed in collaboration with employers in the region to provide the workforce skills they need. 

The University also seeks to make a significant contribution to the Cumbrian economy, attracting investment to the region and acting as a catalyst for new business enterprises.  That means more jobs and more opportunities for the Cumbrian people, keeping more graduates in the area and attracting others.  The University will also benefit the cultural life of the region and become a focal point for the communities around each campus.

Developing the University’s research capacity is another goal, setting a deadline of five years to gain research degree awarding powers.  Research means new ideas and contributing to a greater understanding of a wide range of subjects, which is a central purpose of all universities.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Christopher J Carr said:

“The University of Cumbria exists to change lives for the better and our Strategic Plan sets out the many ways we aim to do this.  We will be working with partners across the region to achieve the goals it sets out and develop new partnerships in future.  It’s an ambitious Strategic Plan, as befits a new institution, but I’m confident that the university and its staff can rise to the challenge it sets.”