The University College for the Creative Arts has become the UK’s first creative arts university, after being granted the university title by the Privy Council.

Prof Elaine Thomas, rector of the University which includes a campus in Rochester, says the move reflects the growing authority of creative arts subjects, and recognition of the value of the creative and cultural industries to society and the economy.

She said: “We are delighted to have been granted university title.

“We underwent rigorous scrutiny as part of the process and it is wonderful to receive confirmation that we are operating as an authoritative and well respected institution of university standing.

“It is a testament to our staff, who have all worked extremely hard to enhance quality and maintain a vibrant research culture.”

The institution, which offers more than 80 courses and has 6,500 students, was formed by the merger of the Surrey Institute for Art and Design, University College and the Kent Institute for Art and Design in 2005.

Prof Thomas added:“Although we are technically the newest university in Britain at the current time, we have a heritage spanning almost 150 years through our founder institutions.”

In its report, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education stated it had no reservations in recommending the institution be awarded university title, and acknowledged the ambition and success of merger. It also affirmed the high calibre of academic staff.

Former graduates of the university include Turner Prize winner Tracy Emin, television presenter Tony Hart, Oscar winner Susie Templeton, and fashion designers Owen Gaster, Karen Millen and Zandra Rhodes.

The University College for the Creative Arts has five campuses at Canterbury, Epsom, Farnham, Maidstone and Rochester. In September 2008 it will adopt the new name of University for the Creative Arts.