City in talks to join prestigious University of London – here’s why that may not be a good thing

City could soon become a part of the University of London – joining the likes of King’s College and UCL.

It is unsure exactly how such a move would affect current or future students.

Some feel it could increase City’s prestige but others have expressed concerns about the potential cost of joining the organisation – which is made up dozens of independent colleges and research institutions across the capital.

Vice-chancellor Paul Curran told the Guardian that City is in “informal discussions about the possibility of making an application” after recent improvements in the university’s research efforts.

Last month, Research Excellence Framework (REF) published results showing City had doubled its output of “internationally excellent” work in the last five years to 40%.

City recruited about 140 people for their research skills between 2011 and 2013 as part of the Vice Chancellor’s strategy to boost the university’s international reputation.

But City students are concerned that a focus on research is just an attempt to climb the league tables and won’t help advance students.

One student said: “I’d rather they spend more on teaching and students than it be all about research”.

The decision on whether City will apply to join the ranks of the University of London will be made after Easter.