One year on: University of the Built Environment celebrates growth, recognition and ambition
Posted on: 9 June, 2026
Professor Ashley Wheaton at the launch of the University of the Built Environment
Today, the University of the Built Environment is celebrating one year since adopting its new name, marking a milestone in its journey from University College of Estate Management (UCEM) to an institution with university status serving the wider built environment sector.
The anniversary comes after a year that has seen the University launch new programmes, form new partnerships, and continue building on its merger with the London School of Architecture.
Reflecting on the milestone, Vice Chancellor Professor Ashley Wheaton said:
“It honestly feels like much longer than a year ago, and that’s meant in the best possible way. The name fits us like a glove.
“It has given us a much clearer way of talking about who we are, what we stand for and what we want to achieve in the future. More importantly, it resonates with people. That’s probably been the biggest change.
“We’ve seen doors opening, new conversations starting and growing recognition of the work we do. The response has been overwhelmingly positive and far greater than we could have expected.
“We’re also seeing growing momentum behind the idea of the built environment as a connected sector. The more organisations, policymakers and educators that think in those terms, the better chance we have of addressing some of the challenges facing our industry and creating the places communities need.
“One year on, it’s fair to say: so far, so good.”
For Jordan Turner, senior lecturer in real estate, the anniversary has a personal significance. Having first studied at the institution before returning as a member of academic staff, he has experienced its evolution from both sides.
Jordan said: “The move from University College of Estate Management to University of the Built Environment reflects much more clearly who we are, what we stand for and the breadth of our ambitions. It has given us a stronger platform to engage with the wider sector and showcase the impact of our teaching, research and industry partnerships.
“Even in just the first year, we’ve seen new opportunities emerge and growing recognition of our role within the built environment. There is a real sense of momentum across the University and excitement about what comes next. For me, it feels as though this is only the beginning of an exciting new chapter.”
Looking ahead, the University plans to continue expanding its academic offer and supporting students and apprentices to achieve successful outcomes, while continuing to strengthen its reputation across the built environment professions.
In a message to staff marking the occasion, Chair of the Board of Trustees Ros Kerslake CBE thanked colleagues for their contribution to the University’s first year under its new identity and highlighted the progress made since the name change.
Among the achievements she highlighted was the continued integration of the London School of Architecture, which joined the University in May 2025, bringing together expertise across a wider range of built environment disciplines.
The University has also launched new programmes and courses including MSc Renewable Energy and AI, CertHE Level 4 Building Services Engineering Senior Technician, and AI for Quantity Surveying.
Ros and Ashley also pointed to the growing influence of the University’s Built Environment Futures Assembly (BEFA), which brings together industry leaders, policymakers and academics to discuss some of the sector’s most pressing challenges, including skills shortages and the future workforce.
As Ashley says, the anniversary marks more than a change of name. It reflects growing recognition of the built environment as a connected sector, bringing together professionals from architecture, planning, surveying, real estate, construction, engineering and sustainability to help tackle some of society’s biggest challenges.
