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Firm foundations for sustainable communities

Last week saw Northumbria University launch a new degree aimed at benefiting urban and rural communities across the North East.

The Rt Hon. Nick Brown MP launched the Foundation Degree in Sustainable Communities, the first such course to be offered by a North East university. Mr Brown said: “The announcement of a brand new foundation degree in sustainable communities at Northumbria University as a three year part time course will provide a first step on the ladder to those looking for a career in public service or the private sector The course can lead on to a BA Honours in a range of disciplines. The new course looks to the future and I am sure that it will prove popular.”

The Foundation Degree aims to develop skills and knowledge in all aspects of sustainable communities ranging from design, planning, professional practice, and housing right through to issues associated with governance, social and economic sustainability, society, cities, politics, community safety, social inclusion, researching communities and the environment.

The course has secured professional accreditation from the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) following evaluation conducted by CIH’s education team. Students who successfully graduate from Northumbria University can achieve membership of CIH.

Professor Andrew Wathey, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Northumbria University said: “This development will deepen the University’s already powerful contribution to safe, cohesive and well-built communities in the North East, by providing excellent graduates who are focussed on meeting the needs of both existing and future residents, and we welcome the Minister’s support for this important new initiative.”

For more information contact Paul Grainger at Northumbria University on 0191 227 4694 or paul.grainger@northumbria.ac.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .