Brunel University London

Brunel College of Advanced Technology was awarded its Royal Charter in 1966, becoming Brunel University. Named after I. K. Brunel, the university has sought to emulate the great engineer's energy, creativity and practicality. A succession of developments and mergers has brought the University from modest beginnings to become a major force both within the UK higher education sector and on the international stage.  Located in Uxbridge on the outskirts of London, Brunel is one of the very few campus-based universities within the M25. Brunel is just a few miles from Heathrow Airport, the M4, M40 and M25, and is served by excellent bus services. Uxbridge is served by the Metropolitan and Piccadilly lines on the London Underground All courses comprise self-contained modules or study blocks, most offering optional topics so you can tailor your course to suit your interests. One of Brunel’s most distinctive features is the commitment to including periods of work experience – sandwich placements – in many courses to help students develop the practical knowledge and skills required to succeed in the competitive graduate job market.

The University offers programmes with an integrated foundation year in Engineering or IT and maths to prepare non-specialists in those areas or those who do not meet the standard entry criteria, for level 1 of relevant degree courses. The latest Research Assessment Exercise (RAE), carried out in all UK universities in 2008, judged 82% of our research to be of international standing. As a result of this success, the university secured a 54.5% increase in the level of its research funding from the Higher Education Funding Council, rising to £12.9 million for 2009–10. The higher education sector averaged an increase of just 7.8%.

Brunel University Institute for the Environment’s research, revealing the link between chemicals in rivers and reproductive health, won the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education in 2011. Students are encouraged to undertake practical placements and projects as an integral part of their course. Brunel’s courses are underpinned by internationally-renowned research in a range of subjects from Cancer Genetics and Human-Centred Design to Contemporary Music and Sport Psychology. High-quality academics are the core of any university and our profile has transformed as more internationally renowned academics continue to join Brunel – Performance Poet Benjamin Zephaniah is Professor of Poetry and Creative Writing, and author Will Self is Professor of Contemporary Thought.

Brunel’s investment in building and infrastructure over the past decade is now in excess of £400 million, with many new and refurbished social, teaching and sporting facilities, halls of residence, and green spaces to enjoy. This investment has transformed the campus, which retains its original 1960s architecture but with the addition of striking new buildings and landscaping. Our latest acquisition is the £30-million flagship Eastern Gateway Building that opened in July 2012 providing teaching and research facilities, a new home for Brunel Business School, a large auditorium, a café and an art gallery.  The Schools of Health Sciences and Social Care and Engineering and Design have also benefited from the addition of new, multi-million pound buildings. In addition, the Lecture Centre has undergone an extensive renovation. The refurbished Antonin Artaud building contains drama and performance studios, a music room, a public performance venue and radio and video-editing suites.

University of Westminster

The University of Westminster was names with Privy Council approval in 1992. It was established in London's Regent Street in 1838 as the original Polytechnic, focussing on innovation and scientific discovery. It was re-launched by philanthropist Quintin Hogg in 1882 and in 1970 was renamed the Polytechnic of Central London (known as PCL). Three of the University's four campuses are based in central London, with excellent transport links. The leafy Harrow Campus is served by tube, rail and bus links. From Northwick Park tube station, Baker Street is around a 20-minute journey.

Our average entry tariff is 300 points. For some subject areas specific A-levels are necessary. Applicants with vocational qualifications, the International Baccalaureate, or international school leaving certificates are welcomed. For studio-based subjects, applicants are asked to provide a portfolio in support of their application, or take part in an interview. Get more details on entry requirements at the University of Westminster online.

On average, there were six applicants to every full-time, first-degree place at Westminster last year.

Last academic year, the Faculty of Media, Arts and Design was overall the most popular on average with 7.3 applications for each place. The most popular course in this Faculty had more than 28 applications for each place (undergraduate Fashion Design). The second most popular course was undergraduate Architecture with 26 applications for each place. The overall average for the Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment was 6.8. Full- and part-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses, short and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses and foundation degrees. 

Westminster was ranked 70th out of 106 in the most recent research assessment. In RAE 2008, media and communications research has been rated the best in the UK, art, and architecture research groups were all assessed as world leading. It was also recognised internationally for research in areas such as law, life sciences and the environment, computing, business, and planning.

Many of the courses have a strong work-related focus, and these skills are included in many degrees.

Media, Architecture, Languages and Subjects allied to Medicine, Psychology, Electronic Engineering, Construction and Surveying, English. Westminster offers the largest range of languages of any British university. Shaping the future of professional life, with a strong work-related focus, and transferable skills.

When you join the University you will have access to all four of our libraries – two have 24-hour opening throughout the academic year. Check online for opening hours and locations. Your home library holds the collection of resources that supports your course as well as other general resources. You will have an Academic Liaison Librarian who has special responsibility for your area of study and who works closely with your lecturers to ensure that recommended materials are available. You will have access to the University's library collection online via Library Search which allows you to find information in both print and electronic formats, reserve items, extend loans and more. Our collection includes over 30,000 e-journals, 20,000 e-books, and 230 databases.The Harrow Campus also features music and television studios, and radio production facilities. As well as getting help and advice from library counter staff in person or over the phone, you will also be able to use the online 'Ask-a-Librarian' service.

IT services – there are more than 3,500 Microsoft PCs, Sun workstations and Apple Macs across the University for you to use. We provide general applications and word processing packages as well as a wide range of specialist software for your area of study. You will be given a University email account, which is delivered by Google. You can use the PCs in the University's computer suites for supervised training sessions, research, completing assignments, group work, online learning as well as general internet access. You can also borrow a laptop from the library counter. Wireless access is available everywhere on all campuses. Information on your course is available as an app for your phone. Blackboard is our virtual learning environment which provides you with resources and information to support your course modules. You can also access Blackboard with your mobile device. You get can help and support with IT issues face-to-face at our drop-in centres, which are located at each campus, or over the phone, or online through our FixIT Centre.

The Harrow Campus features music and television studios, radio production facilities, photographic studios, and multimedia newsrooms. Our Cavendish Campus offers extensive computer suites and laboratories. Life Sciences students will beable to use the latest hi-tech laboratories and equipment at our Cavendish Campus. Our Marylebone Campus is home to our exclusive Bloomberg Suite – offering business students first-hand experience of the world's financial markets.

Harper Adams University

Founded in 1901. For more information on Harper Adams history, visit the website. Very high quality teaching. Rated highly for industry contacts and graduate employment – 98.3% of our graduates obtained full-time employment (Destination of Leavers from HE Survey 2012). Rated highly by satisfied students – rated as eighth in the UK for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey. Single campus location in beautiful Shropshire countryside. A shuttle bus is available three times a day for students living in nearby Newport to get to campus. Free parking.

High teaching quality and strong applied research focus.Placement experience and high employability of students.High standard of resources to support teaching, including the farm and other specialist resources in food, and land-based engineering. The ratio of University owned workstation to students is 1:4. All workstations have access to the internet. Most IT facilities open 13.25 hours each day of the week (7 hours each on Saturday and Sunday). The open-access areas are open 24/7 and students can access services through the University portal from their own laptops or computers 24/7. 41,000 books and 3,000 journals in the Bamford Library, making it one of the largest specialist land-based collections in the UK.

The Learner Support Co-ordinator arranges support for learners with disabilities. Prior to arrival at the University students are invited to complete and return a Learner Support Self Assessment indicating if they have a disability. They are also encouraged to contact the University prior to arrival to discuss their support needs and application for the Disabled Students' Allowance (if appropriate).

Students will meet with the Learner Support Co-ordinator at start of the academic year to discuss support needs. Disability support includes an Assessment of Study Needs carried out in University (through the University of Derby Access Centre). Additional examination support including extra time and any other support recommended in the Assessment of Study Needs or other appropriate evidence).

Many different clubs and societies available, as well as many sporting clubs and teams. Student Union President is a one-year sabbatical position, rest of executive are first/second year students. Ledgendary social programme on campus. Busy and varied social programme on campus, plenty of opportunities to attend events off-campus, from club nights in Birmingham to the annual ski trip abroad.

University of Strathclyde

Established in 1796 when Professor John Anderson, one of the leading figures of the Scottish Enlightenment, left instructions in his will for 'a place of useful learning'. Received the Royal Charter in 1964. Today Strathclyde’s ambition is to be among the leading technological universities in the world. It is committed to the highest standards of teaching, research and knowledge exchange, and has a track record of making technologies and innovation applicable for the benefit of society and the environment. It is proud of its strong links with business and industry. It challenges traditional academic boundaries to solve global problems, and at the same time takes pride in its place at the heart of the city of Glasgow. It is home to students from more than 100 countries.

Located in the centre of Glasgow, one of Europe's most exciting cities, and close to Scotland's stunning scenery, including Loch Lomond. The University’s community is now together on one site, following the arrival at the city centre campus of around 350 staff and 2,000 students previously based at the Jordanhill campus in the west end of Glasgow. Their move to the £38 million Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences quarter forms part of a wider £350-million campus investment plan.

City centre location close to central train and bus stations and only 20 minutes from Glasgow Airport.

According to the most recent National Student Survey, our student satisfaction levels stand at 86%, and our students rate us more highly than average score for UK universities in terms of Learning Resources, Personal Development and Students’ Union. Subject areas with particularly strong showings included: Medical Technology (Prosthetics & Orthotics) (100%), Molecular Biology (100%), Biophysics & Biochemistry (100%).  Chemistry, Economics, Human & Social Geography (Geography) and Human Resource Management all scored 97%.

Strathclyde has a proud history of communicating and developing the practical applications of research.  We believe in a multi-disciplinary approach to tackle global challenges using international partners from industry and academia.

Our commitment to cutting-edge research is demonstrated by significant investment in world-class infrastructure which is part of our wider £350M campus development project. We are lead, or partner, in 17 Centres for Doctoral Training (CDT) which offer access to prestigious studentships and quality training in both subject specific and transferable skills. The areas covered by these Centres reflect our commitment to integrate world-class research teams with pioneering external partnerships in an interdisciplinary environment in such topics as:  Medical Devices, Wind Energy, Future Power Networks & Smart Grids, Next Generation Accelerators, Continuous Manufacturing & Crystallisation and Optics & Photonics. Strathclyde has one of the largest Centres for Doctoral Training portfolios in the UK with involvement in 9 and leadership in 5 such centres. 

High quality teaching is informed by research into teaching and learning as well as academic scholarship. Strathclyde promotes excellence through continuous innovation in the curriculum and in approaches to teaching and learning. Provides learning experiences that make students highly employable, capable of advanced study and confident in their own abilities. Our students have higher than average graduate employment rates. The University’s academic strength is demonstrated by its collaboration with other Scottish universities through research pooling initiatives, as well its links with outstanding partners overseas. Strathclyde has more than 200 collaborative agreements in more than 50 countries, and an estimated 2,000 informal links around the world. In 2012, the University became home to the Confucius Institute for Scotland’s Schools, a Scotland-wide centre for the promotion of Chinese language and culture. The University is supporting an international initiative for the establishment of Age-Friendly universities.  Launched in November 2012 by Irish Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Dublin City University Brian MacCraith, it encourages the participation of older adults in all of universities’ core activities.  The move coincided with the 25thanniversary of the Learning in Later Life Programme, which offers older people opportunities to broaden their skills and interests – one of the first of its kind in the UK and one of the largest worldwide. 

Strathclyde, in partnership with the University of Dundee, has won a bid to host the first Fulbright Scotland Summer Institute for students from the USA. The bid was made to the UK-UK Fulbright Commission, one of the world’s most prestigious international exchange programmes.

University Campus Suffolk

University Campus Suffolk (UCS) opened in 2007 and is one of the newest Higher Education institutions in the UK. Located in the East of England, UCS is a unique institution created in partnership with the Universities of East Anglia and Essex, who jointly validate UCS degrees. UCS is built around a Learning Network, with the main hub in Ipswich and centres across Suffolk. UCS has a very varied and diverse student body, which makes it an interesting and inspiring place to study. There are around 5,000 students across the UCS Network, approximately 70% of which are based at the main hub in Ipswich. Approximately 75% of UCS students are female and approximately 30% are mature students (over 21 years of age).

UCS is built around a Learning Network, with the main hub in Ipswich and centres across Suffolk.

The main Ipswich Campus has a stunning waterfront location, just 10 minutes’ walk from the town centre. UCS students benefit from access to libraries across the Network and the hub, as well as the resources of the validating universities. UCS Ipswich library recently underwent a £2.5-m renovation project. It offers access to centralised e-resources, books and journals and has a range of laptops, PCs and Macs with specialist software. The main Ipswich campus offers free Wi-Fi and dual function iMacs for student use. All student rooms in Athena Hall are wired for internet access.

UCS has five academic schools: Applied Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Business, Leadership and Enterprise, Nursing and Midwifery, and Science, Technology, and Health. The expertise in the Schools is complemented by more than 50 Visiting Professors and Senior Fellows who contribute to research, enterprise and teaching and learning within their specialised fields. UCS Ipswich is 90 minutes from London and close to a number of international airports and Harwich ferry terminal.

Research is central to UCS strategy and is carried out primarily through the academic schools at UCS with the support of the Office of Research and Enterprise.

UCS welcomes applications for postgraduate research degrees in any of the following research themes: Leadership and Enterprise, Management, Business, Social Science, Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Science, Health Services, and Research. The Research and Enterprise Directorate runs the Graduate School, offering specialist support and development opportunities for Postgraduate students. In 2011 the overall NSS satisfaction rating for 'Teaching on my course' at UCS was 81%. Two areas, History and Construction, achieved 100% for the standard of teaching. Children’s Care, Learning and Development, Diagnostic Radiography, Computing and Networking, and Midwifery all scored 90% or above for teaching.

UCS has arrangements in place to allow student groups to access various sporting facilities in Ipswich. UCS Union also run a variety of clubs and societies. Sports are offered at many levels from recreational and beginners up to elite/national level.

University of Dundee

The University of Dundee was founded in 1881 and became a college of St Andrews University in 1897.  Independence was regained in 1967 and the University will celebrate 50 years as an independent university in 2017. Over the years the University has merged with  Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, Northern College of Education  and Fife and Tayside Schools of Nursing. Former rectors include Sir Clement Freud, Sir Peter Ustinov, Stephen Fry, Fred MacAulay, Lorraine Kelly and the current rector is Hollywood actor Brian Cox.

Dundee's City Campus is a true city centre campus only five minutes’ walk from a wide range of high street brands and independent shops and the cultural quarter. Ninewells Campus, located at Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, is about a 20-minute walk from the City Campus. International air connections are possible via Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen airports (around 1 hour 15 minutes' by road/rail). Direct flights to London are available from Dundee Airport. Dundee is on the main East Coast rail service with direct services to Newcastle, York and London. The railway station is only five minutes' walk from the City Campus. The city's bus station is only 10 minutes’ walk from City Campus and provides connections with many major cities in Scotland and the rest of the UK.

Over 200 undergraduate courses are available in 14 academic Schools. Many courses offer the flexibility to choose new subjects and possibly to change your degree specialism in later years. Traditionally undergraduate degrees in Scotland are of 4 years duration (with the exception of architecture, dentistry and medicine). However, it is possible to complete a large number of honours degrees in 3 years by starting in Level 2, provided applicants have met the minimum entry requirements. The 4 year MA (Hons) degree programmes allow students to study a range of subjects in Levels 1 and 2. Art and design, life sciences and engineering follow core curriculums in Level 1, allowing students to change specialism in Level 2. A number of new discrete 3 year Honours degree programmes are available to those meeting the relevant entry requirements. This currently includes LLB English Law, BSc Applied Computing: Human Computer Interaction and nine art and design specialisms

The University of Dundee has a long-established commitment to teaching quality and student experience (top for teaching quality in UK in 2006 league tables). In the National Student Survey 2013, over 88% of our students were satisfied with their teaching in many subjects (86% average).  Moreover, 100% were satisfied in History, Politics and Town and Regional Planning. The Complete University Guide 2014 ranks Anatomy & Physiology and Civil Engineering at Dundee as top in Scotland and Pharmacology, Social Work and Town & Regional Planning in the top 3 in Scotland.

The University received a favourable Quality Assurance Agency (ELIR) report in 2014. This highlighted that students are very positive about their experience of the University; that there is a strong partnership with the Dundee University Students’ Association, with student representation embedded at all levels of the institution; that the University is successful in supporting a diverse student population, with particularly positive feedback from students in relation to Disability Services, the Careers Service and the Library and Learning Centre; and that the University provides a comprehensive range of opportunities for students to develop their employability skills, including the innovative Enterprise Gym and Placement Base.

Dundee offers a good mix of subjects, and is particularly strong on professional and accredited degrees, such as medicine, law, dentistry, architecture, education, accountancy and nursing.

There are further strengths in life sciences, engineering, computing, humanities, and social and environmental sciences.

Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design is one of UK's top art schools. The University is top in Scotland for research in Art and Design, Civil Engineering, Biological Sciences and Laboratory-based Clinical Sciences (2008 RAE). There were further strong performances in History, Geography and Environmental Studies, Nursing and Midwifery, Computing, and Philosophy. Dundee has one of the highest graduate starting salaries in Scotland, with an average first job salary of £21,569.

Over 750 generally available PCs on campus – sited in library study zones and traditional computer suites. Wireless access is available (including WiFi printing) throughout teaching and learning spaces across the campus. Wireless and cabled access to the University’s high speed network in all University accommodation. The main library has recently been given a £6-million extension, and new features include flexible learning spaces, extensive electronic resources, self-service machines to issue and return books/DVDs, laptop charging points and lockers, and a café. Opening hours are from 7.30am until 2.30am Monday to Friday and from 9am until 2.30am at the weekends during the academic year. The university has one of the most advanced online learning environments available to students in the UK – available via the internet and mobiles, supporting all courses and providing specialist academic search and discovery tools.

Dundee University Students’ Association (DUS) has consistently been ranked among the best students' unions in the UK. Situated in the heart of the campus, the Union is a stylish and contemporary bar and nightclub which regularly hosts bands and DJs and offers a range of entertainment at night. Offering a large convenience store and a range of food outlets, inclding fast food takeaway, all-you-can-eat buffets and table service meals, the Union is the perfect place to find everything you need. Over 70 student societies are currently affiliated to DUSA catering to a variety of interests and specific groups including acting, international students and a wide range of sporting activities.

Students interested in a career in media can get involved with Discover Radio, DUSA's own internet radio station, DUSA TV, Scotland's leading student television channel, or The Magdalen, the University's student magazine. DUSA has one of the strongest representation structures in Scotland with its members sitting on the majority of University committees. The student Executive committee and Student Representative Council lead DUSA and ensure all activities are undertaken with the best interests of students at heart. In addition to the Student Services Advice Team, the University’s hosts a Citizen’s Advice Bureau and Student Law Clinic in DUSA, where students can access a range of advice.

University of Surrey

The campus is particularly well placed on the edge of Guildford's historic town centre, directly off the A3, only 9 miles from the M25. The Stag Hill campus is set in landscaped grounds with a picturesque lake. The Manor Park campus, a short distance away, includes a large area of student accommodation and the Surrey Sports Park. The main line rail station is just ten minutes walk and there are frequent bus services between campus and the town centre and rail station. London is only 40 minutes away with frequent services and the University is easy to reach from Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

Surrey’s unique new Major/Minor degrees let students choose from over 60 subject combinations to create the perfect balance of studies. What distinguishes the Major/Minor degrees from combined study programmes at other universities are the anchor modules that examine how the two subjects relate to each other, giving students a third area of intellectual understanding. Many modular courses allow students to choose specific subject areas of particular interest. The majority of students also undertake a professional training placement or study abroad as part of their degree. Over 2,300 partner organisations work closely with the University of Surrey to give students valuable experience of the professional environment, helping them develop vital skills for the competitive graduate employment market.

The University was commended for its professional training year, support of postgraduate research students, management of library and student induction. Highest-ever scores in the 2013 National Student Survey put the University of Surrey among the top 10 higher-education institutions for student satisfaction. Surrey moved up to ninth place in the country for student satisfaction, with 92% of students who took the survey expressing satisfaction with the quality of their course. This was the third successive year in which the satisfaction level of Surrey students has increased.

The Library & Learning Centre has provided the University with a centre for study that befits a leading university. Over the past five years, around £16 million has been invested in the Library & Learning Centre, including a new extension. The University celebrated the successful launch of SurreyLearn, an online Virtual Learning Environment that is used in a variety of innovative ways to support and enhance learning and teaching resources and interact with staff and peers. The Library & Learning Centre is the academic hub of the University, sitting at the heart of the campus and offering outstanding facilities including silent areas for individual study, communal learning zones for group work, and bookable rooms. The library offers 1,240 study spaces, over 300 access computers, sound and image collections and resources, foreign language self-study, self-service issues and returns, printing, scanning, photocopying. The library is open daily, 24 hours a day during semester time and for long opening hours during vacations and outside semester weeks. There is an academic librarian for each subject area who will introduce you to the library and help you to find and use the information resources for your academic needs.

The Student Personal Learning and Study hub (SPLASH) is a student-centred area designed to enhance study. Via appointments, workshops and drop-ins, Student Learning Advisors can help in academic and personal development improving writing, revision, time management and any other academic skills. Academic Liaison Librarians also work from SPLASH, offering advice on finding resources, using databases and referencing.

 Surrey has forged an enviable track record in graduate employability, dating back over a decade, with 92.7% of first degree leavers in employment or further study.

The University of Surrey is a research active university, and its research activity informs undergraduate students’ learning, keeping the degrees up-to-date and relevant.

All students can take free language lessons as part of the Global Graduate Award programme.

The School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London

SOAS is the only higher education institution in the UK specialising in the study and research of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. The school was founded in 1916 as the School of Oriental Studies.

SOAS uniquely combines disciplinary expertise, language scholarship and regional focus. SOAS has the largest concentration of specialist staff (350+ academics) concerned with the study of Asia, Africa and the Middle East at any university in the world. SOAS is a global academic base, a crucial resource for London and a seat for international political debate and interaction. SOAS is based in the heart of London. The capital's rich cultural, social and intellectual life is  on its doorstep. SOAS is well served by all forms of public transport. It has excellent travel connections with bus, underground and train within easy access of the main campus at Russell Square. The Russell Square campus is in historic Bloomsbury, well-known as the intellectual centre of the city while Vernon Square is close to many of Islington's boutiques and restaurants. SOAS is also placed close to Senate House, Birkbeck College and UCL libraries.

SOAS welcomes applications from students with a variety of qualifications and experience reflecting our commitment to recruiting a diverse student community. Admissioon tutors will consider the whole application, including the student's personal statement. Considerable weight is also given to the academic references. A level offers range from A*AA to BBB, depending on the subject. 

The entry requirements detailed in the course descriptions represent the minimum for each subject. Applicants must demonstrate that they are able to achieve the appropriate qualifications.

SOAS has more than 5,000 students and welcomes students from more than 130 countries. About 50% of students are from countries outside the UK. There is a roughly equal split between undergraduates and postgraduates (55%:45%). The ratio of female to male students is 62:38.

24% of undergraduates are over 21 when they start their course. On average undergraduate applications to admissions are approximately 6:1. Over 50% of the staff submitted to the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise rated world-leading or internationally excellent. SOAS was ranked top in the UK for Asian studies and did well in anthropology, politics, history and music.

The SOAS Library is one of the world’s most important academic libraries for the study of Africa, Asia and the Middle East and attracts scholars from all over the world to conduct research

SOAS produces a number of academic journals, books, working papers and newsletters alongside the research output of its academics.

Norwich University of the Arts

In 2014 Norwich University of the Arts (NUA) marks the start of its 170th year celebrations. NUA is an independent, specialist arts, design and media institution within the University sector with full responsibility for all course content. NUA was established in 1845 as the Norwich School of Design.

Under two hours from London, the contemporary city of Norwich combines a rich sense of history, including the stunning 900-year-old cathedral, with ultramodern developments such as the Forum. The campus is in the heart of the city centre in Norwich’s cultural quarter, just a ten minute walk from the railway station. Within minutes by car or train, or a little longer by bike, you can be out of the city into the beautiful surrounding landscape – including the lakes and rivers of the Norfolk Broads. The coast and some of the most spectacular beaches in the UK are just 30 minutes from campus.

The key focus of the application process is on your portfolio but all courses have minimum entry requirements. Visit the website for more information. Candidates for all BA courses must apply online through the University and College Admissions Service (UCAS). Application is online via the UCAS website, or call UCAS customer services on 0870 1122 211. 85% of graduates felt ready for work on graduation. (Creative Futures Creative Graduates Survey, 2009–10.) 97% student retention rate. Students who start at NUA stay here. 92% of graduates were in employment or further study within six months (DLHE 2012). NUA was rated the Top Specialist Arts, Design and Media University for Student Satisfaction in the 2013 National Student Survey. Top rated learning resources – our specialist facilities include the world-class media lab, industry standard digital design, editing and sound facilities, print and etching studios, a foundry, and wood and metal workshops. 

NUA facilities (including studios, workshops, exhibition and learning spaces) are well equipped and rated highly by staff and students. The onsite public art gallery enables students to showcase their work and gain curating and exhibition organising experience. The library houses the largest specialist art, design and media collection in the eastern region, including 32,000 books, subscriptions to over 1,300 journals, over 3,000 DVDs and an extensive bank of electronic resources. Norwich was the UK's first city to experiment with free wi-fi. NUA continues to offer broadband wireless connectivity on campus. NUA has its own art materials shop, open daily, which sells a wide range of basic and specialist art supplies at discounted prices.

Renovation of The Guntons Building will lead, in early 2014 to the unveiling of a new glass atrium creating a fresh, contemporary entrance to NUA’s design studios.  A multi-million pound investment in the Media Lab ensures students have access to all the latest industry standard software and equipment. Renovation in 2011 led to the opening of the photography studio, with all the facilities necessary for contemporary photography education housed in 13th-century monastic remains. The fashion studios give students an open-plan, riverside space in which to innovate and create. The Duke Street library and lecture theatre are located in a fully refurbished 19th-century building. Investment continues in the estate to ensure that students have access to the best possible contemporary facilities and resources to support their creative potential.

The University of Northampton

Founded from a marriage of Northampton's colleges of art, technology and education, which formed Nene College of Higher Education in 1975. In February 1999 it became University College Northampton. Gained university status and the power to award its own research degrees in 2005 and became the University of Northampton. Set in the heart of England, Northamptonshire is the perfect combination of bustling urban life and countryside. With everything from premiership rugby, a purpose-built athletics stadium, motor racing and a white-water rafting centre, high-energy living is on offer around the clock in Northampton.

At the town’s leading arts centre an exciting line-up of drama and dance, stand-up comedy, music and theatre attracts national audiences and media headlines. On the acclaimed Roadmender stage there is the chance to see some of the country’s best up-and-coming bands in action – with the likes of Supergrass, Dizzee Rascal and Coldplay amongst the venue’s performers. As a perfect complement to the town’s leisure, sporting and cultural facilities, the countryside of  orthamptonshire offers a relaxing haven of cycle ways and canals, historic homes and gardens. Getting here couldn’t be easier either, with both London and Birmingham less than an hour away by road and rail. From Northampton’s train station, Avenue Campus is just a ten-minute walk or short bus journey away. Park Campus, just two miles from Avenue, is also only a short bus journey from the town centre. Northampton has the largest of the 24 National Enterprise Zones bringing in additional investment, development and graduate opportunities.

We are committed to providing our students with the very best learning experience possible.

Our ambitious academic community undertakes extensive research and consultancy work, bringing real-world experiences and insights to their teaching. Our programmes have the perfect balance of theoretical learning, critical analysis and practical application. Signed partnership agreements with local sports teams to create industry relevant work placement and intern opportunities. The University of Northampton has seen the biggest increase in student satisfaction of any university in the East Midlands. Top 20 for Student Satisfaction. Our students enjoy excellent employment opportunities and work experience placements, and benefit from continued employability support.

We provide our graduates with key skills that employers value, while holistically integrating social enterprise into our teaching, learning and research, and working with local authorities, businesses and the wider community. DHLE statistics reveal that 96% of our graduates are in work or further study six months after completing their course.

Designated an Ashoka U Changemaker Campus for our commitment to Social Enterprise. In 2014, awarded Midlands Enterprising University of the Year for the third year running. Entrepeneurial activities embedded within all our courses to enhance the students learning experience, inspire innovation, develop entrepreneurial skills and understand social values. Access across a range of platforms, including high-quality collections of books, journals, multimedia and internally generated resources such as research output. Flexible, varied and supportive learning services, including libraries at both Park and Avenue campuses and online environments, open to members of the University and the wider community. A range of timely and accessible learning support delivered online and face-to-face, embedded within courses or as personalised help.

A contribution to the academic output of the University through research and professional engagement and to the University's wider role through its involvement in local, national and international communities of practice. Dedicated, specialist staff offering tailored support. State-of-the-art Student Centre with one-stop shop information. Two restaurants and a medical centre.

Loughborough University

Founded in 1909 as a small technical institute. Became Loughborough College and then Loughborough College of Technology. In 1966 became Loughborough University of Technology, the UK's first technological university. Renamed Loughborough University in 1996. Land acquisitions in 2003, 2006 and 2010 have made Loughborough one of the country's largest single-site campuses, with over 438 acres of land.

Located on the edge of the market town of Loughborough. The cities of Nottingham, Leicester and Derby are easily accessible. London is 90 minutes away. A safe, single-site campus provides plenty of open space, gardens and sports areas interspersed with academic buildings and student accommodation. Loughborough railway station is 3 km (2 miles) away, the M1 1.6km (1 mile), and East Midlands Airport 14.5 km (9 miles). A shuttle bus operates between campus and the town/railway station.

In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) every department was found to be undertaking research that is internationally recognised, with 18% of the University's research considered to be 'world leading'. 70% of Loughborough University research is carried out in collaboration with external partners (national average is 20%). The University has over 40 research centres and institutes and five interdisciplinary research schools. A top 20 university based on research funding from HEFCE (the Higher Education Funding Council for England) and the only one in this shortlist without a medical school.

Loughborough was ranked first in the UK out of all the participating universities in the international and UK Student Barometer, with over 90% of Loughborough students saying they were satisfied with the University’s services and 92% saying they would recommend Loughborough to others considering applying to university. Extensive links with industry. More than 80% of undergraduate courses offer a year-long placement. Loughborough is also one of the top 15 universities targeted by large, graduate employers. 87% of Loughborough graduates from 2012 are in a job or undertaking further study, with 76% of these in 'higher graduate' occupations, compared with the national average of 64%.

Loughborough University is the UK's premier university for sport and its underpinning disciplines, with one of the best integrated sports development environment in the world. Loughborough University is home to the world's largest university-based Sports Technology Research Group, which is part of the internationally acclaimed Sports Technology Institute. SportPark, based at the University provided a state-of-the-art home for national sporting bodies including Youth Sport Trust, British Swimming and several other national governing bodies.

Home to the ECB National Cricket Academy and national centres of excellence for swimming and athletics. Loughborough hosted Team GB prior to the London 2012 Olympic Games. More than 90 Loughborough-linked athletes competed at the games. Loughborough has dominated the BUCS championships for over thirty years.

Loughborough will open a second academic campus in 2015 in part of the former International Broadcast Centre on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London, offering postgraduate and executive education. The £21-million Loughborough Design School, which provides state-of-the-art facilities for the various design disciplines at the University, opened in autumn 2011. Work is underway to build a new £5.6-million health and fitness centre on campus, opening in October 2014.

Plans are underway for the development of a £23-million sport and exercise medicine centre on the Loughborough campus. The centre will be part of the country’s first-ever National Sport and Exercise Medicine Centre of Excellence.

Proposals have been announced to expand the Science and Enterprise Park on the University campus. One of the first buildings to be established on this was SportPark, a £15 million bespoke central hub for some of the country’s leading sports bodies.

A £15-million Sports Technology Institute has been created to develop cutting-edge technology and enhance research and enterprise in the sport and leisure sectors.

BPP University

BPP University is part of BPP Professional Education, one of the largest training providers in the UK. Specialising in career-focused undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in accountancy, business, finance, law and health, we draw on over 35 years of experience to provide the expertise and practical knowledge students need to realise their ambition. In 2007, we were the first private company to be granted degree awarding powers, and have been awarded both Highly Trusted Sponsor and University status. Our track record speaks for itself – BPP provides training to employees at over 75 of the FTSE 100 companies and over 30,000 accountants study with BPP every year.

Whether you study law, accountancy, business or health, you'll find we concentrate as much on getting your career started as on your degree. You'll be taught by industry professionals, benefitting from their experience and our excellent links within the professions. Throughout your degree, we'll make sure you have the skills and advice you need to transform your career prospects and land you the job you want. And if you find that appealing, there's more.

Thousands of students, both online and in classrooms in the UK and worldwide, study with BPP. Our degrees are focused on employability and career progression, and are designed in conjunction with leading organisations and businesses to ensure they are industry-driven and application oriented. Our purpose is not the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, but the pursuit of career advancement for all who study with us. It’s no surprise that 96% of our students find a job in the year after their graduation.

A wide range of student services are available at BPP to ensure you get the most out of your studies. Our extracurricular clubs and societies are directly beneficial to your career, and can also be great fun. You’ll also have access to our award-winning careers service  that will help you find the right role, and you’ll receive opportunities to network with legal and business professionals. Law students can also get involved in a range of projects through our award-winning pro bono centre.