The University of East London has launched a private, not-for-profit institution in Florida, opening a new route for US learners to complete bachelor’s degrees and pursue postgraduate study.
UEL USA has been granted an institutional licence by the Florida Commission for Independent Education. Undergraduate and master’s teaching will begin in January 2027, following the start of professional and executive education courses in November 2026.
A partnership with Indian River State College will enable holders of the college’s two-year associate degrees to progress into one-year bachelor’s completion programmes in digital media and communication enterprise, applied behavioural science, and business management and innovation.
Initial academic operations will be based in south Florida, including facilities at Fort Lauderdale’s Chase Stadium with the Global Institute of Sport. UEL USA will also operate at campuses owned by Indian River State College, which serves more than 24,000 students on Florida’s Treasure Coast.
“Knowledge alone is no longer enough in today’s rapidly shifting global economy,” said Amanda Broderick, UEL’s vice-chancellor and president.
“Launching UEL USA marks a transformative leap in our Vision 2028 strategy, extending our unapologetically careers-first model directly into Florida.”
Alongside the undergraduate routes, UEL USA will offer six one-year master’s programs: cyber security engineering, public health, marketing, media and communication industries, esports management, and a professional MBA.
Its professional and executive education provision will cover 19 areas. UEL said it was working with employers to tailor courses to workforce needs, including staff development and leadership training.
Heather Belmont, provost of Indian River State College, said the partnership would broaden access to further study in the region.
“The bachelor’s and master’s programs address fields with clear relevance to today’s economy, and the professional and executive education programs give working people flexible opportunities to strengthen specific capabilities,” she said.
“Together, the institutions can connect our community with international ideas while building the talent local employers need.”
By bringing together education, employers and innovation partners, this initiative can create new opportunities for students and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic
Keith Scott, British Consulate General Miami
The expansion comes as the UK seeks to grow transnational education and overseas partnerships under its refreshed international education strategy, which includes an ambition to increase education exports to £40 billion a year.
Sector action plans published in September by members of the UK’s Education Sector Advisory Group identify international market development, commercial collaboration and overseas delivery as areas for action through to 2030.
Keith Scott, Britain’s consul general in Miami, welcomed the launch as an opportunity to deepen UK-Florida ties.
“By bringing together education, employers and innovation partners, this initiative can create new opportunities for students and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic.”
