The University of Bedfordshire International College (UBIC) will help to prepare students from across the world progress onto undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes in the UK with a focus on engineering and business.

UBIC will open its doors to students in February 2020.

Bill Rammell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bedfordshire, said: "Like Bedfordshire, Holmes Education Group is a proven pioneer in international education. Our new partnership with Holmes reflects a mutual ambition for global growth and universal reach.

“Bedfordshire and Holmes both believe wholeheartedly in providing access to education for all students, the International College will only strengthen this commitment."

The new UBIC’s courses are designed as a stepping stone for students wanting to progress onto a degree course at Bedfordshire.

Bedfordshire’s Deputy-Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ashraf Jawaid OBE said: “The International College's academically rigorous programme will produce well-prepared students from a multitude of backgrounds, all ready to take advantage of the opportunities Bedfordshire has to offer. This union of two global education forces will bring even more depth and diversity to our student body."

Christopher Nagle, Holmes Education, Group Director said: "We are delighted to announce this new cooperation with the University of Bedfordshire. This strategic partnership will allow us to expand our portfolio to include crucial pathways in the field of engineering.

“Bedfordshire's exciting new £40m STEM building has proven the University's commitment and calibre in this important subject area."