University of Hertfordshire launches ambitious plan to become one of the UK’s most successful modern universities
The University of Hertfordshire has today (Tuesday, 28 January) launched its Strategy 2025-2030 outlining how it will power its reputation globally as a high-achieving, modern, dynamic and enterprising university.
Developed following extensive consultation and feedback from across the University, the plan places ‘powering staff, students and society’ at its core to achieve three main objectives:
- ensure students are equipped for successful careers
- solve global challenges through research and enterprise
- advance Herts’ global community through global reach and reputation
The institution's ambitions for the next five years include Herts becoming a top 50 university in a UK league tables and for research excellence in the 2029 Research Excellence Framework; being in the top 50% for graduate outcomes; in the top 25% for Knowledge Exchange (KEF) and student satisfaction; and continuing developments to be net zero by 2050.
University of Hertfordshire Vice Chancellor, Quintin McKellar, said:
“As we embark on the University’s next chapter with the launch of our Strategy 2025-2030, our mission remains fundamentally the same: to ensure everyone who might benefit, is able to access and achieve through higher education. This plan offers us a comprehensive framework to continue driving positive change and empowering our community - staff, students and partners - to achieve their goals.
“Over the last five years, we have successfully navigated a period of change, emerging stronger and more determined than ever. Our Strategy 2025-2030 charts an ambitious path forward, equipping us to respond to future challenges while seizing new opportunities. Together, we will continue to forge ahead, ensuring that Herts remains a leader in higher education. Driving opportunities that lead to positive outcomes regionally, nationally and globally; from Herts to the world.”
As part of what the University is calling its “transformative initiatives” , Herts has also committed to huge investment in their people and culture, campuses and digital transformation. These include ensuring an inclusive, high-performing working environment with enhanced professional development programmes for their 3,000-strong workforce. A number of major construction projects including a new state-of-the-art building for health and social work education, and the new Hertfordshire Medical School and both staying at the forefront of AI advancements while leveraging of the latest digital technology to enrich the student and staff experience.
Professor Mairi Watson, Deputy Vice Chancellor at the University of Hertfordshire, said:
“We are committed to turning the vision we’ve collectively shaped into tangible, meaningful results. At the heart of this journey will be our focus on investing in our staff, enhancing the student experience, advancing our teaching and learning environment, and expanding our global impact.
“This plan is an ambitious roadmap— one that I truly believe Herts is ready to deliver. This is our moment to capitalise on our strengths and seize the opportunities ahead.”