Innovation UK >Articles > Profile > Northumbria University

Northumbria University is the largest research and teaching university in the North East of England. Both research-engaged and business-focused, it has become one of the most deeply embedded of all the North East universities in the industrial, professional and commercial sectors and in civic life. It performs a leading role in promoting and sustaining the region?s economic, cultural, sporting and social wellbeing, with growing recognition nationally and internationally.

With the recent launch of its new Corporate Strategy, Northumbria will build on those strengths and establish itself as a new type of excellent university, focussing on the fundamental activities of both teaching and research, and on making a real difference to people, business and communities. Through excellent research, teaching and innovation the University will make a powerful contribution to cultural and economic development and regeneration, regionally, nationally and globally.

The strategy outlines five key areas; in research, Northumbria will strive to develop its standing in all measures of research performance and double its research capacity and income. A greater focus on collaboration will be encouraged and research which has a positive impact on society will be supported. A target to increase postgraduate research student numbers by 50 % over the next five years has been set.

With regards to innovation and enterprise, the University will use the knowledge it creates to enable businesses and organisations to innovate, strengthening its engagement and delivering added value through knowledge transfer activity. It will also strengthen its enterprise and innovation culture and support entrepreneurial activity.

In the area of learning and teaching, Northumbria is committed to providing an outstanding experience for its 35,000 students. Learning and teaching will be informed by research and, where appropriate, by professional practice, supported by excellent facilities and information infrastructures. Northumbria?s graduates will be enterprising, employable and able to make a powerful contribution to society, culture and the economy throughout the world. The University will work with schools and colleges to raise the aspirations of young people in the North East and realise potential wherever it exists.

In relation to the region, engagement and partnerships, Northumbria will engage with organisations and communities regionally, nationally and internationally, adding value through collaboration, partnership and its accessibility to society.

With the internationalisation of Higher Education, the University will seek to increase its international profile and global impact. Northumbria will provide students with access to its programmes in the UK and in their home country, as opportunities arise to supply the skills they need to succeed in the global labour market.