MillionPlus

Overview

MillionPlus is a UK-based association representing 23 modern universities, collectively serving over one million students. Established in 1997 as the Coalition of Modern Universities (CMU), the organization was rebranded to MillionPlus in 2004. Its primary mission is to advocate for the role of modern universities in the UK's higher education landscape, emphasizing their contributions to social mobility, regional development, and economic growth. MillionPlus serves as a collective voice for its members, engaging with policymakers, stakeholders, and the public to promote the value of modern universities.

Historical and Legal Framework

MillionPlus was founded in 1997 as the Coalition of Modern Universities (CMU) with the aim of representing universities that gained university status following the Further and Higher Education Act 1992. This legislation allowed polytechnics and other higher education institutions to attain university status, leading to the formation of what are now known as modern universities. In 2004, CMU was renamed MillionPlus to reflect the growing influence and contribution of these institutions to higher education. The organization operates as a non-profit entity, funded primarily through membership subscriptions from its member institutions.

Mission, Vision, and Objectives — Role in Higher Education

Mission: MillionPlus aims to champion, promote, and raise awareness of the essential role of modern universities in the UK’s higher education system. It seeks to represent the shared missions of its members and advocate for policies that support their contributions to society.

Vision: To be the leading voice for modern universities in the UK, influencing policy and public perception to ensure these institutions continue to thrive and serve their communities effectively.

Objectives:

• Advocate for policies that support the mission and values of modern universities.
• Enhance the public understanding of the role and impact of modern universities.
• Foster collaboration among member institutions to share best practices and resources.
• Support the professional development of staff within member institutions.
• Engage with stakeholders to promote the value of higher education in society.

Through these objectives, MillionPlus plays a pivotal role in shaping the higher education policy landscape in the UK, ensuring that modern universities are recognized for their contributions to education, research, and community development.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

MillionPlus operates as a non-profit organization with a governance structure that includes a Board of Directors and a Chief Executive. The Board is composed of representatives from member institutions, providing strategic direction and oversight. The Chief Executive, currently Rachel Hewitt, leads the organization’s day-to-day operations and policy initiatives. MillionPlus maintains independence from government and other external bodies, allowing it to represent the interests of its members without external influence. This autonomy enables the organization to advocate effectively for policies that align with the values and missions of modern universities.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation Role in Higher Education

While MillionPlus does not directly engage in the accreditation of higher education institutions, it plays a significant role in supporting quality assurance processes within its member institutions. The organization collaborates with bodies such as the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) to promote best practices in teaching, learning, and research. MillionPlus also provides resources and guidance to its members on maintaining high standards of academic quality and institutional effectiveness. Through these efforts, MillionPlus contributes to the overall quality and reputation of higher education in the UK.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

MillionPlus is actively involved in international networks and partnerships that promote global engagement and collaboration among higher education institutions. The organization participates in various initiatives aimed at enhancing the internationalization of its member universities, including student and staff exchanges, joint research projects, and global learning opportunities. Through these collaborations, MillionPlus helps its members expand their global reach and contribute to the international higher education community.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

MillionPlus continues to influence the direction of higher education policy in the UK through its advocacy efforts and engagement with policymakers. The organization addresses key issues such as funding, access and participation, and the role of universities in regional development. By representing the interests of modern universities, MillionPlus ensures that these institutions have a voice in shaping policies that affect their operations and the students they serve. Looking forward, MillionPlus aims to strengthen its impact by expanding its membership, enhancing its policy initiatives, and fostering greater collaboration among higher education institutions.

Summary

MillionPlus is a leading association representing modern universities in the UK, dedicated to advocating for the role and value of these institutions in higher education. Through its mission to champion, promote, and raise awareness of modern universities, MillionPlus plays a crucial role in shaping higher education policy and ensuring that modern universities continue to contribute to society through education, research, and community engagement. With a governance structure that includes a Board of Directors and a Chief Executive, MillionPlus operates independently to represent the interests of its members effectively. The organization’s involvement in international networks and its commitment to quality assurance further enhance its impact on the higher education sector.

FAQs

• What is MillionPlus?

  MillionPlus is the Association for Modern Universities in the UK, representing 23 institutions that focus on teaching and learning, applied research, and community engagement.

• When was MillionPlus established?

  MillionPlus was founded in 1997 as the Coalition of Modern Universities (CMU) and was renamed in 2004 to reflect its evolving role in higher education.

• How does MillionPlus support its members?

  MillionPlus supports its members through advocacy, policy development, sharing best practices, and fostering collaboration among institutions.

• Is MillionPlus involved in university accreditation?

  While MillionPlus does not directly accredit universities, it collaborates with accrediting bodies to promote quality assurance and best practices within its member institutions.

• How can universities join MillionPlus?

  Universities interested in joining MillionPlus can contact the organization directly through their official website to inquire about membership opportunities.

Organization Name

MillionPlus

Acronym

Year of Establishment

1/01/1997

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

24

Address

90 London Road
London
SE1 6LN London United Kingdom

Phone

+44 (20) 7717 1655

Fax

+44 (20) 7717 1658

List of universities that are members of the MillionPlus:

England

• Bath Spa University
• Canterbury Christ Church University
• Leeds Trinity University
• Liverpool John Moores University
• London Metropolitan University
• Southampton Solent University
• Staffordshire University
• University Of Bedfordshire
• University of Central Lancashire
• University of Cumbria
• University of East London
• University of Greater Manchester
• University of Suffolk
• University of Sunderland
• University of Wolverhampton

Scotland

• Abertay University
• Edinburgh Napier University
• Queen Margaret University
• University of the West of Scotland

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

Not available

X (Twitter)

MillionPlus's X page

LinkedIn

MillionPlus's LinkedIn profile

YouTube

Not available

Instagram

Not available

Wikipedia Article

MillionPlus's Wikipedia article

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