Why new degree-awarding powers are 'just the beginning' for ambitious Scottish college

The institution is the first in the nation to be granted new degree-awarding powers in more than 15 years.

SRUC’s degrees were previously awarded through the universities of Glasgow and Edinburgh but, from Monday, it can issue higher education qualifications, including degrees and taught Masters.  

Taught degree awarding powers (TDAP) were conferred by the Privy Council and approved by the Scottish Parliament. 

It follows the awarding of similar powers to the University of the Highlands and Islands in 2008.

SRUC’s first degree course will be an BVSci in Veterinary Science, with the first cohort of students starting at its new School of Veterinary Medicine in Aberdeen this week. 

Professor Wayne Powell, principal and chief executive of SRUC, said: “Gaining taught degree awarding powers is a truly historic day for SRUC.

“It is the fruit of years of dedication and hard work from our staff. I joined SRUC eight years ago and, while there have undoubtedly been significant challenges along the way, I have watched our institution flourish thanks to the dedicated efforts of my colleagues and our students. 

“I would also like to thank the universities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, who were hugely supportive of our application process. 

“Our degrees will represent all that is at SRUC’s core: sustainability, rural and environmental expertise, giving students an unrivalled all-round educational experience and producing a workforce with the skills to drive a green economy and strategic collaboration. 

“This achievement is perfectly aligned with SRUC’s ambition to become a leading tertiary university, demonstrating excellence in supporting skills and career opportunities for our students.  

“Our five-year strategy, launching within a few months, will show our ongoing commitment to developing new ways to thrive through collaboration – driving innovative new ways of working between business, government, communities and academia. 

“More than ever before, SRUC is in control of its own destiny. Gaining degree awarding powers really is just the beginning.”  

SRUC has sites in Edinburgh, West Lothian, Dumfries and Galloway, Aberdeen and Fife.  

SRUC was formed in 2012 from group of agriculture and land-based institutions, some of which had been established more than 120 years ago.