STUDENTS have expressed disappointment after learning of a failed bid by Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College to acquire university status.

On Thursday, June 2, academics at the High Wycombe centre revealed efforts to drop "college" from its title had failed following an assessment by higher education watchdog, the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA).

Jodie Whichelow, a second-year student studying BA Hons in creative writing, said: "If I were asked what sounds better, a university or a university-college, I would say university. It sounds more defined.

"To say that I'm going to a university, rather than a university college sounds superior, as though the qualification would be more highly regarded.

"I think basically it comes down to pride, university just sounds better."

Despite the shock news the institute has pledged to reapply for full university status.

In the meantime the centre will continue awarding students its own undergraduate and masters degrees.

Director professor Bryan Mogford said: "We are surprised and disappointed by the view of the QAA that BCUC has yet to meet the criteria necessary for award of university title.

"BCUC has enjoyed degree awarding powers for a number of years. It has an excellent track record of review as an institution operating in the university sector and had its last successful full institutional audit by QAA only last month."

Founded in 1893 as a school of art and science, BCUC secured degree awarding powers in 1995 and formally changed its name to Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College in February 1999.