THE founding class of New York's newest college have celebrated the end of their studies.

The first postgraduate students at Glasgow Caledonian University’s (GCU) New York College have marked the milestone with the traditional American Commencement Ceremony.

The event celebrated the achievements of the class and recognised the founder of the United Nations Global Compact, Dr Georg Kell, with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) Vice-Chancellor and President of Glasgow Caledonian New York College, Professor Pamela Gillies, said: “I am delighted to be celebrating with our Masters students in what is an historic first ceremony for a New York College supported by a values led foreign University with a Charter to deliver degree programmes.

"Like the staff, students, graduates and alumni of its supporting partner institution GCU, the GCNYC community of scholars and staff is focusing its education and research to deliver social benefit for the common good."

Following some controversy surrounding its opening, New York College became the city’s first international institution to receive degree granting authority in June 2017 with the first Masters students in International Fashion Marketing starting later the same year.

The college currently has 58 students enrolled in postgraduate programmes in fashion marketing, business and risk management.

GCNYC’s Vice-President, Cara Smyth, said: "Our research-based Master of Science programs are designed for the next generation of responsible leaders in their sectors.

"Our students are purpose driven corporate statesmen and women with the skill sets and networks to be global change makers.

"This being our first year as a degree granting authority in New York, we are extremely proud of our founding class and look forward to keeping them engaged as alumni."

The university’s Chancellor, Dr Annie Lennox, met with staff and students at the campus last month and they have also been visited by Sir Alex Ferguson.