Regent University London
In 1984 the Crown lease was taken by Rockford College, Illinois, which founded Regent's College to offer a 'study abroad' programme, and provide courses with a clear British focus (Churchill and King Arthur were included). The first students arrived in 1985 and a steady flow from the USA has continued despite the pressures of world events (two students lost at Lockerbie are commemorated with trees in the gardens).
Gradually, other institutions began to take up residence on the campus. The European Business School arrived in 1985, followed by the School of Psychotherapy and Counselling in 1990. Regent's Business School was set up in 1997. These schools formally merged in 2006 to become Regent's College London. Programmes in drama, film and media were launched in 2010 and in 2013 the College began to offer programmes in fashion and design, through the acquisition of AIU in Marylebone.
Regent's University London
In 2012 Regent's College gained its own taught-degree awarding powers and the following year the institution was awarded university status, becoming Regent's University London in June 2013.
