UNIVERSITY College, Winchester, is to take the name, "University of Winchester", following confirmation of its new status.

Having received the confirmation from the Quality Assurance Agency that Winchester met the criteria for full university title, the Department for education and Skills invited the college to propose a new name and submit it for approval.

"I am pleased to confirm that, subject to consultation with local stakeholders, we will adopt the name, 'University of Winchester'," said principal, Professor Paul Light.

Securing the full university title is the culmination of a 10-year strategic campaign. Degree-awarding powers were granted in 2003 and the University College, Winchester, title was approved last year.

"This is a ringing endorsement of University College, Winchester, standing as an excellent provider of university education, underpinned by strong research and professional engagement," said Prof. Light.

"The quality of our academic staff and our support staff is a key factor in our success. So, too, is the high proportion of students who complete their studies successfully and the employability of our graduates.

"We intend to build on the substantial contribution we already make to the community in which our staff and students live and work.

"With sites in Winchester and Basingstoke and plans for provision in Eastleigh and Andover, we regard serving the community across Hampshire as a key priority."