The BIMM Institute has become BIMM University after being granted full university status by the Department of Education.
The newly named university was founded in 1983 as Drumtech. It now comprises of a collection of colleges including BIMM Institute, offering courses in music, the Institute for Contemporary Theatre, Performer College and Northern Ballet School, all offering courses in performing arts, and the Screen and Film School, offering courses in film and TV.
Between the colleges, the university will have campuses across Birmingham, Brighton, Bristol, Essex and Manchester.
“This is a tremendous accolade for our institution,” said Adam Carswell, CEO and Head of Institution. “It is the culmination of a long journey to develop the educational character of our institution, together with our academic processes and corporate governance.”
Professor Louise Jackson, Academic Director and Provost, said that being awarded university status “is the most significant moment of recognition for an institution of higher education, and it builds upon decades of endeavour”.
“More than ever the world needs specialist universities that do not just conserve the past but develop new artistic practices and outputs to help us engage in myriad ways with what it means to be human,” she added.
“I cannot describe how thrilled I am that BIMM University, now recognised as an equal to other distinguished seats of learning, will continue to lead the way across all our art forms.”