Resource Development International, a subsidiary of Capella Education Company, has been cleared to create the UK's newest university, Arden University. RDI, Subsidiary of Capella Education Company, Approved to Operate as Arden University in the United Kingdom - MarketWatch
If I read that correctly, they have what is often termed a 'royal charter' to operate as a university. It also seems they are limited to 'taught' degrees (coursework). That would exclude the PhD, but might possibly include other doctorates. I don't know enough to state this with conviction. Perhaps others would like to comment and correct?
awww crap. guess they're going to drop their partner Unis too. They offered affordable HND diplomas. ):
This award of university title to RDI for Arden University has come through the Companies House route used by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), rather than the Privy Council route which comes with a "Royal Charter".
Am not sure I understand the UK accreditation system. Can the Companies House route used by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) be likened to the NA route by the DEAC (for example) while the Privy Council route which comes with a "Royal Charter be said to be the equivalent of US RA route by one of the Regional accreditors?
Here's the story from the other side of the water https://www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/news/profit-rdi-granted-university-status