From student to honorary graduate for Joe McElderry
The X Factor winner will receive the honour in recognition of his contribution to music, performance and support for emerging talent
Singer Joe McElderry is set to become the first person to receive an honorary degree from Newcastle College University Centre.
The South Shields performer, who rose to national fame after winning The X Factor in 2009, will be awarded an Honorary Degree in Musical Theatre at the university centre’s graduation ceremony on July 10, recognising his contribution to music and performing arts.
The honour carries particular significance for Joe, who studied a BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts at Newcastle College between 2008 and 2009 - completing his course while competing on the ITV talent show which saw him mentored by Geordie Girls Aloud singer, Cheryl Tweedy.
He said: “I was genuinely overwhelmed when I found out I was receiving an Honorary Degree from Newcastle College. It was something I never expected and it feels incredibly special to be recognised by a place that played such an important role in my journey.
“Some of my happiest memories were made at Newcastle College. It was here that I realised performing was what I wanted to do, and the confidence, friendships and support I found gave me the foundations to build a career in the industry.”
Joe’s relationship with the college has remained strong, and in 2025 he was appointed Patron of The Performance Academy, supporting students pursuing careers in music and performance.
Jon Ridley, principal of Newcastle College, said Joe’s ongoing commitment to supporting emerging talent made him especially deserving of the recognition.
“It is a privilege to recognise his contribution to music, performing arts and the North East with this Honorary Degree.”
The news comes as Joe releases his first single in a long time. Infused with heartbreak and disco in equal measure, Love Me Out Loud is available to stream now via joemcelderryofficial.com
Meanwhile the 35-year-old is also preparing for the return of his fundraising show, Something In The Water at Newcastle Theatre Royal on June 28. Confirmed names include Danny Adams, Si King, Jason Cook, Michael Marouli and West End stars Adam Strong, Christina Bianco and Carly Burns. (See below for our preview)
