The BSO becomes the UCO
We are pleased to announce that as of 18 September 2017, the British School of Osteopathy will now be known as the University College of Osteopathy.
The change of name, which was granted by Privy Council, is a significant development for the institution and follows the awarding of Taught Degree Awarding Powers in October 2015, making the UCO the only osteopathic educational institution in Europe with both University College title and the power to award its own degrees. The changes come at a significant moment in our history, with 2017 also being our centenary year.
The new name is accompanied by a new visual identity and digital presence, including two new websites – uco.ac.uk and clinic.uco.ac.uk - offering a fresh new look and an improved user experience for our students, patients and other audiences.
Charles Hunt, Vice-Chancellor says: “This is an exciting time for all at the UCO and our wider network of supporters. We believe the granting of University College title is an important recognition of all we have managed to achieve over the past century, recognising us as a leading provider of osteopathic education and healthcare, both in the UK and internationally, and positioning us for further growth and development.
“We are very proud of our rich history and reputation, but are also keen to look to the future and pursue opportunities to develop, improve and to drive the profession forward, and we believe a fresh, new identity as the University College of Osteopathy will help us to do that.”
Gordon McKenzie, Chief Executive of GuildHE commented: "I am delighted to congratulate BSO on becoming a University College. Its staff and students should be proud. One of the great strengths of UK higher education is its diversity. Specialist institutions like the University College of Osteopathy are a hugely important part of that. They provide expert staff and links to industries and professions and offer more choice and an excellent experience for students."
The UCO worked with brand experience agency IE Brand on the development of the new brand and websites, and underwent a lengthy period of consultation with stakeholders, who were overwhelmingly in support of the change.
Ollie Leggett, Managing Director of IE Brand added: “Before considering any new names, refreshed visual identities or improved digital experiences, IE first took care to speak with students, partners, patients and staff at the BSO. We sought to discover what makes them special, and to honour the rich heritage and values of this pioneering osteopathic institution – the biggest and oldest of its kind. We fed all this insight into the new brand which celebrates their unique new status, signals change and communicates a renewed sense of confidence and ambition. It has been a privilege to work with the BSO at this exciting time in its history.”
The rebrand encompasses the UCO's award-winning osteopathic teaching clinic, to be known as the University College of Osteopathy Clinic, or UCO Clinic going forward.
For further information about the new UCO brand, including requests for logos and other materials, please contact Jessa Harris, Head of Marketing and Communications at j.harris@uco.ac.uk or on +44 (0)20 7089 5309.