Buckinghamshire New University

Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) is a public university located in Buckinghamshire, England, with campuses in High Wycombe, Aylesbury, Uxbridge, and Great Missenden. The institution was originally founded in 1891 as the School of Science and Art, using funds raised from a tax on beer and spirits to provide evening classes to local residents. Over the years, it has undergone several transformations and name changes, reflecting its evolving educational mission. After World War I, it became the Wycombe Technical Institute and played a key role in training local craftsmen, particularly in the furniture-making industry, which was a significant employer in High Wycombe. Following further expansion after World War II, it was renamed High Wycombe College of Technology and Art in 1963. In 1975, it merged with Newland Park College of Education in Chalfont St Giles, forming the Buckinghamshire College of Higher Education. The historic Missenden Abbey, a former 12th-century Augustinian monastery, was also acquired during this period and opened in 1988 as a management training center. In 1999, the institution was granted university college status and renamed Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College. It achieved full university status in 2007 and adopted the name Buckinghamshire New University. In 2021, the university began using the abbreviation BNU. Known for its practical, career-oriented programs, BNU has maintained strong ties with regional industries and continues to expand its offerings and facilities. The main campus is in High Wycombe, with additional campuses serving specialized programs in healthcare, management, and education. The university is a member of GuildHE, a representative body for smaller and specialist higher education institutions in the UK. BNU’s long history and deep community ties reflect its commitment to accessible education and skills development in Buckinghamshire and beyond.