University Centre South Essex (UCSE) has confirmed it will remain at The Forum in Southend and continue to deliver degree-level education from the building’s third floor after the University of Essex announced it is relocating its Southend operations to Colchester from 31 July.
What remains at The Forum
The centre, which forms part of South Essex College and is not affiliated with the University of Essex, said its activities are unaffected by the move. UCSE has said it will expand its role within the landmark building as it develops its recently unveiled rebrand and ambitions to strengthen higher education across south Essex.
Alongside UCSE’s offer, The Forum will continue to house Southend Library and the Focal Point Gallery, with partners committing to maintain the building as a focal point for learning, culture and community activity.
Courses and validation partners
UCSE emphasised it will keep providing career-focused degree programmes validated by external partners. The centre named a number of validating organisations that will continue to accredit its awards.
- University of East Anglia (UEA)
- University of the Arts London (UAL)
- Pearson
- The Open University
| Provision | Location |
|---|---|
| Degree-level study (career-focused) | The Forum, third floor |
Leadership comment and local impact
"University Centre South Essex is proud to be at the heart of The Forum’s next chapter. We are committed to providing high quality, career focused higher education that gives local people the opportunity to achieve their ambitions while supporting the skills and workforce needs of our region,"
The remark came from Sharon Dunphy, deputy executive director for higher education and quality performance and standards, as UCSE seeks to reassure students and residents who may have been confused by the University of Essex’s decision to relocate. UCSE said its continued presence underlines that university-level study remains available in the city.
For current and prospective students this clarification is likely to be of immediate practical value. While the University of Essex’s move may alter certain pathways and services once provided within The Forum, UCSE’s statement indicates that local, validated degree programmes will continue without interruption from its Southend base.
What to watch next
Residents and learners should expect UCSE to detail how it will expand provision in the coming months, including any changes to course availability, student support and partner arrangements. Those affected by the University of Essex relocation — staff and students with questions about transfers, accreditation or services — should contact their respective institutions for specific guidance.
