LIPA achieves major milestone: new degree awarding powers

The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) is set to strengthen its ties with the creative industries after being granted degree awarding powers by the Office for Students (OfS).

The milestone gives LIPA the legal authority to design, approve and confer its own degrees – independently of external validation.

This means LIPA can become even more agile in adapting to emerging trends and industry changes, ensuring its curriculum reflects the sector's evolving needs.

Professor Sean McNamara, LIPA’s Principal and CEO, says: “Achieving degree awarding powers marks a significant accomplishment in our journey over the last 30 years. It is a testament to the exceptional quality of our teaching, and the dedication of our staff and students.

“This recognition reflects our unique approach to vocational training, rooted in creativity, collaboration and industry engagement, and strengthens our ability to shape and influence the future of the performing arts and creative industries.”

LIPA’s Founding Patron, Sir Paul McCartney, says: "I’m so proud to see how far LIPA has come since we re-opened the doors of my old school in 1995. Gaining degree awarding powers is a major step that will help us stay true to our original aim – giving people the best chance of building a lasting and meaningful career in the performing arts."

LIPA’s Chair of Council, Geoff Goodwin, says: “This is a defining moment for LIPA. Gaining degree awarding powers is both a tremendous honour and a powerful statement of confidence in our vision, our teaching and our graduates. It gives us even greater freedom to shape bold, industry-led learning that prepares our students to lead, not follow, in the creative world.”

Previously LIPA degrees have been validated by Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU). Professor Mark Power, LJMU’s Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive, says: “We have been working side by side with LIPA since its foundation and I couldn’t be more delighted as they achieve this milestone as a mature and independent institution. We will continue to be an active and supportive partner.”

The granting of degree awarding powers to LIPA follows an intensive review by the OfS. The powers take effect in September, with the 2025-26 intake being the first students to enrol on degrees validated directly by LIPA.

The institute will mark another major milestone next year as it celebrates the 30th anniversary of its opening.