Two more universities have opened campuses in London as institutions continue to search for new ways of raising revenue.

Aston University’s new central London base in Aldersgate was officially launched this week while online learning provider Arden University, headquartered in Coventry, has added a site in east London to its existing bases in the capital.

They join numerous other universities with a London presence including Coventry and Glasgow Caledonian universities as well as the universities of Sunderland and Portsmouth.

Some institutions have credited London campuses – particularly attractive to international students – for helping to generate much-needed extra income but they have often been criticised by staff as risky ventures when institutions should be investing in existing sites.

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Aston said it will welcome its first cohort of students in July, taking master’s degree programmes in areas such as digital innovation, data science and artificial intelligence.

The industry-focused university hopes its students will benefit from its location in the heart of the city, surrounded by leading companies. The site is being operated with the Cambridge Education Group (CEG).

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Aleks Subic, Aston’s vice-chancellor, said “Aston London” marked a “pivotal step” for the university.

“By establishing our presence in the heart of the capital’s thriving business and technology community, we are creating an immersive learning environment where students collaborate directly with industry leaders and develop cutting-edge skills.

“This new London study hub embodies our commitment to delivering inclusive, career-focused education that bridges academic excellence with real-world application. Here, in the world’s leading city for students, the next generation of technology and business leaders will emerge as the architects of tomorrow’s innovations.”

Arden already has three London bases – in Ealing, Tower Hill and Holborn – as well as campuses in several other major English cities and Berlin. The new Stratford Cross site – opening in September – will offer students opportunities to combine online learning with in-person classes.

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Carl Lygo, Arden’s vice-chancellor, said the new London campus “strengthens our ability to connect students with each other, their studies, and the wider opportunities that London has to offer”.

“With flexible learning at the heart of what we offer, this brand-new campus is intended to encourage our students to connect and engage with those around them.”

tom.williams@timeshighereducation.com