Why do universities matter?

London has a huge knowledge economy, so the role universities and research centres have to play is particularly invaluable. Universities are important in building bridges between businesses, science and government and bringing together all the expertise in an area to boost wealth in the nation and region, and quality of life. And the universities in London have much to offer:

• There are over 40 higher education institutions (some of which are listed below). The largest is the University of London, which is federal in structure.


• Many of the top UK research universities are in London, spending a huge amount on technology research.


• Have potential for huge intake of overseas students (who pay considerably higher fees than students from the UK and EU)


• To increase participation in the knowledge economy, efforts are being made to increase the take up of product, process and services innovation in a wider variety of businesses. This is being done in a variety of ways, including the creation and sustaining of effective innovation networks between universities and industry.

Find out more by visiting:

www.m25lib.ac.uk - a huge resource bringing all the resources within the M25 under one site!

www.universitiesinlondon.co.uk - again worth a visit to find out what's on offer.

What can a university do for your company for greater insight into how your organisation can work closely with your local higher education institution.

What can a university do for you personally?

Universities and colleges of further and higher education all have a role to play in boosting your skills base and innovative-thought processes. Remember that:

• You don't have to study for an entire degree or course; many institutions now have units or short courses you can do to boost your knowledge and skills base and confidence in one subject.


• You can study for a professional qualification on a part time basis in subjects such as management, marketing, personnel, if you want to develop a niche in those areas;


• You can study for fun and the hell of it - why not?

If you live and work in London, why not see what your local universities have to offer throughout the region? And don't forget the many further education colleges and private training providers throughout the region, too many to list here.