UK’s first 'super-university' to launch in September after Greenwich-Kent merger

The UK’s first “super-university” is set to launch in September after the historic merger of Greenwich and Kent.

Despite the merger of these two universities, they will still operate as separate academic divisions and will keep their individual names and identities. Students will study and graduate from their specific institution, while staff will be employed collectively by the new university group.

The super-university named as London and South East University Group (LASEUG), will consist of over 50,000 students across four campuses (London, Medway, and Kent), making it the UK's third-largest higher education institution.

After one year of announcing merger plans, the university will officially launch on September 7.

The University of Greenwich vice-chancellor and new chief executive of the LASEUG, Prof Jane Harrington, said, “There has been tireless work over the last year working to an ambitious timetable and developing a new university model that has never been done before.”

“It means we are starting with a smooth transition, an extremely strong senior executive team and clear direction so that we can fulfil our potential as the UK’s first super-university.”

The UK higher education sector is facing a severe financial crisis. The Office for Students reported that 24 providers were at risk of insolvency and closure, and 45 percent of providers could face deficits for 2025–26.

Earlier this year, Cranfield University and King’s College London plan to merge in August 2027, aiming to create a financial foundation and serve as a blueprint for others after over two decades of collaboration.

In May, the education select committee warned of a clear possibility of a university closing” highlighting that many institutions are already cutting jobs, closing courses and selling assets.

A Department for Education spokesperson said, “We welcome this merger, which will create a strong combined institution able to reinvest in students and support the economy of the south east.”

“We are committed to creating a secure future for our world-leading universities so they can deliver for students, taxpayers, workers and the economy, and we expect universities to take appropriate decisions to ensure their long-term sustainability.”