Arden University

Arden University is a for-profit distance and blended learning university, with its head office in Coventry, England. Formerly a family-owned business known as Resource Development International it was awarded university status in 2015. Since August 2016 it has been part of the Global University Systems group.

History

Arden University started as a family owned business in 1990, trading under the name of RDI. In 2011, it became part of Capella Education Company. After gaining taught degree awarding powers in April 2014 and being awarded university status, Arden University was re-launched in August 2015 under its current title. It is the only specialist distance learning university to launch in the UK in the last 50 years.^[1] In August 2016, Capella Education sold the university to the Netherlands-based company Global University Systems, which also owns the University of Law, St Patrick's College, London and the London School of Business and Finance in the UK.^[2]

Academic profile

As of 2016, Arden University has taught over 50,000 students over 25 years,^[3] from more than 150 countries.^[4] It provides taught higher education qualifications via both blended learning (a combination of face-to-face seminars with online work) and fully online instruction.

Teaching methods

Arden University adopts a variety of methods for teaching and delivery, including a virtual learning platform "ilearn" designed by the in-house technology development team.^[5]

With four intakes a year, access to learning materials 24/7 and the ability to study as fast or as slow as their commitments allow, 90% of students with Arden University work while studying.^[6]

Quality and teaching standards

Arden University was classed as 'commendable' in the educational oversight monitoring visit by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA).^[7]

Campus

Arden University has two offices; its head office is based in Brandon Lane, Coventry whilst its subsidiary premises are located in Hong Kong. Arden University currently has two London based study centres (one at Ealing Green College) whereby a blended learning schedule is delivered to students, combining both on-line studying with face-to-face seminars.

Accreditations

Arden offers a range of higher education courses, some endorsed by professional bodies, including the Chartered Institute of Marketing, as well as a qualifying law degree.^[8]

References