Strategy 2035
News
The launch of Strategy 2035: Bath Spa University – the Professionally Creative University for the future
Tuesday, 31 March, 2026The launch of Strategy 2035: Bath Spa University – the Professionally Creative University for the future
Bath Spa University is proud to unveil its new ten-year Strategy, setting a clear and ambitious direction for the university over the next decade.
At the heart of ‘Strategy 2035: Bath Spa University the Professionally Creative University for the future’ is a founding belief that creativity and education drive human progress, allowing BSU’s vibrant student and staff community to respond with confidence to a world shaped by rapid technological, social and environmental change.
Our vision is that by 2035, Bath Spa University will feel distinctive - more connected, more confident and more future-facing - while remaining unmistakably true to its creative, inclusive character and leading in a number of key areas. The experience of being a learner, colleague or partner will reflect a university that continues to thrive and has continued to grow in ambition, clarity and impact.
Our purpose
Bath Spa University exists to shape futures through professionally creative education and skills development. By connecting learners, colleagues and partners through applied research and innovation, we will create meaningful social, cultural and economic value.
Our ambition
By 2035, BSU will be recognised as a distinctive, sustainable national university, proudly rooted in the South West. We will lead in:
- Inclusive growth, removing barriers and enabling all learners to flourish
- Professionally creative education, with flexible, personalised and lifelong learning pathways
- Creative and civic innovation, delivering real-world impact through strong partnerships
- Professional practice, combining academic rigour with application and discovery
Our foundations
BSU’s strategy is built on four core foundations that guide everything we do:
- Outstanding, innovation-intensive teaching, research and knowledge exchange
- Being regionally essential, nationally leading and internationally connected
- Remaining values-led and socially responsible in all that we do
- Organising for success as One BSU, collaborative, aligned and future-focused
What this means for BSU
Strategy 2035 is not just a vision; it is a shared commitment and will shape how we work, collaborate, and support our learners and each other. It challenges us to think differently, act creatively and work together to deliver meaningful impact.
Strategy 2035 outlines that over the next decade, Bath Spa University will be even more connected, more inclusive and more confident while staying true to our creative character. Our learners will benefit from flexible, practice-based education; our research will have visible impact; and our partnerships will enrich communities and industries locally, nationally and globally.
Reflecting on the importance of Strategy 2035, Bath Spa University Vice-Chancellor and CEO Professor Georgina Andrews commented:
“Every member of the Bath Spa University community plays a vital role in bringing this strategy to life. Whether through teaching, research, knowledge exchange, or professional services or partnership work, their contribution is essential to achieving our ambitions.
“Together, we will shape a future where creativity is truly a force for good.”
Strategy 2035 not only looks to the future but also reflects on the impressive milestones BSU has accomplished over recent years. Highlights include being named as the second most sustainable university in the UK according to the prestigious People and Planet league table in 2025, rising 47 places as the highest rising university in the Guardian University Guide 2026, and securing Ofsted outstanding for our short course and inclusive communities provision in 2025.
Further information about ‘Strategy 2035: Bath Spa University – The Professionally Creative University for the future’ can be found on the Strategy 2035 section of the website. You can read and download the full Strategy document and a useful summarised ‘Strategy on a page’, as well as films and stories from across the BSU community that show how we are already bringing our Strategic vision to life.