Birmingham City University

Birmingham City University (BCU) is a public university located in Birmingham, United Kingdom. It was founded in 1992 as Birmingham Polytechnic and later became Birmingham City University in 1997. The university has a diverse student body with over 24,000 students from over 80 countries studying across five campuses in Birmingham.

BCU offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in a variety of subjects, including arts, design, engineering, health, law, and education. The university is well known for its strong emphasis on practical, skills-based education and has state-of-the-art facilities, including media production studios, engineering labs, and clinical simulation suites.

The university is also actively involved in research and has a number of research centers, including the Center for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences and the Institute for Global Prosperity.

In terms of student life, BCU has a vibrant and active student community, with a range of clubs, societies, and events to get involved in. The university also offers a range of support services to help students succeed, including academic support, careers advice, and health and well-being services.

Overall, Birmingham City University is a dynamic and innovative institution that is dedicated to providing students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to succeed in their chosen careers.

Birmingham City University has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The university’s roots can be traced back to the formation of the Birmingham School of Design in 1843, which was one of the first schools of design in the UK.
In 1971, the school merged with several other institutions to form the Birmingham Polytechnic, which became one of the largest polytechnics in the UK. The polytechnic continued to grow and expand over the next few decades, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in subjects such as business, engineering, and the arts.
In 1992, Birmingham Polytechnic was granted university status and became Birmingham City University. Since then, the university has continued to grow and evolve, becoming one of the leading universities in the UK for practical, skills-based education.
Over the years, Birmingham City University has developed a reputation for its strong industry connections, innovative research, and dynamic student community. The university has also made significant investments in its facilities and infrastructure, including state-of-the-art media production studios, engineering labs, and clinical simulation suites.
Today, Birmingham City University is a dynamic and forward-thinking institution that is dedicated to providing students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to succeed in the 21st century.

Undergraduate – 78%
Postgraduate – 22%
Full-time students –86%
Part-time students –14%
UK students– 85%
EU students-3%
International students – 12%
Female – 63%
Male – 37%

Birmingham City University’s ranking has remained constant between 1001-1200 in 2022 and 2023 according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. In 2021, the university was ranked between 801-1000. In the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023, BCU was ranked 94th among the top 100 universities in the UK, with the University of Oxford being ranked first. In The Guardian’s University Rankings 2023, BCU dropped from 67th in 2022 to 100th this year. The university was ranked 89th with an overall score of 53% in the Complete University Guide – University Ranking 2023. The university’s ranking has seen a less favorable outcome compared to previous years.

Birmingham City University is structured into several faculties, each offering a range of academic programs and courses in specific subject areas. The faculties at Birmingham City University are:

Faculty of Arts, Design, and Media: Offers courses in subjects such as fashion, graphic design, performing arts, and photography.

Faculty of Business, Law, and Social Sciences: Offers courses in subjects such as accounting, law, marketing, and sociology.

Faculty of Education, Law, and Social Sciences: Offers courses in subjects such as education, social work, and criminology.

Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment: Offers courses in subjects such as civil engineering, construction management, and architecture.

Faculty of Health, Education, and Life Sciences: Offers courses in subjects such as nursing, midwifery, and physiotherapy.

Faculty of Computing, Engineering, and the Built Environment: Offers courses in subjects such as computer science, engineering, and construction management.

The university’s faculties work together to provide a comprehensive and integrated learning experience for students, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills and real-world experience. Each faculty has its own dedicated team of experienced academic staff and facilities, ensuring that students receive the best possible education in their chosen subject area.

International students expect to pay fees between £12500 to £17500.

Scholarship

Birmingham City University offers a range of scholarships for international students to help them with the costs of tuition fees and living expenses. Some of the scholarships available for international students at Birmingham City University include:

International Scholarships: This scholarship is available to international students who are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate program at the university. The scholarship covers a portion of the tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit.

Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Scholarships: This scholarship is available to international students who are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate program at the university and have achieved excellent academic results. The scholarship covers a portion of the tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit.

Developing Solutions Scholarships: This scholarship is available to international students who are studying a master’s program in a subject related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit.

Chevening Scholarships: This scholarship is available to international students who are from countries in the Commonwealth and are studying a postgraduate program at Birmingham City University. The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and living expenses and is awarded based on academic merit.

British Council GREAT Scholarships: This scholarship is available to international students who are from countries in Asia and are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate program at Birmingham City University. The scholarship covers a portion of the tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit.

It’s important to note that the availability of scholarships and the criteria for eligibility can vary from year to year, so international students are advised to check with the university directly for the most up-to-date information.

Birmingham City University provides a vibrant and dynamic student experience, with a wide range of activities and opportunities available to enhance the student life. Some of the highlights of student life at Birmingham City University include:

Student Societies and Clubs: There is a wide range of student societies and clubs available at Birmingham City University, covering a diverse range of interests and hobbies, from sports and fitness to politics and cultural activities.

Campus Life: The university has two main campuses located in the city center of Birmingham, providing students with easy access to all the city has to offer. The campuses are equipped with a range of facilities and resources, including libraries, computer labs, and student lounges, to support student learning and well-being.

Accommodation: Birmingham City University provides a range of accommodation options for students, including on-campus residences and off-campus private housing. The university’s on-campus accommodation is located within walking distance of the main campuses and provides students with a supportive and secure living environment.

Careers and Employability: Birmingham City University offers a range of services and support to help students develop their employability skills and prepare for their future careers. The university has a dedicated Careers and Employability Service, which provides students with access to job and internship opportunities, career advice and guidance, and workshops and events to help them develop their skills and knowledge.

Student Support: Birmingham City University provides a range of support services to help students with their academic and personal needs, including academic advising, counseling, and financial support. The university’s Student Services team is available to help students with any questions or concerns they may have, and provide guidance and support throughout their time at the university.

Overall, Birmingham City University provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students, helping them to make the most of their time at the university and achieve their academic and personal goals.

Birmingham City University provides a range of accommodation options for students, both on-campus and off-campus, to suit different needs and budgets.

On-Campus Accommodation: The university provides on-campus accommodation at its City South Campus, located within walking distance of the main campuses and city center. The university offers a range of room types, including standard and premium en-suite rooms, to suit different needs and budgets. The on-campus accommodation is designed to provide students with a supportive and secure living environment, and is equipped with a range of facilities and resources, such as common rooms, kitchens, and laundry facilities.

Off-Campus Accommodation: Birmingham City University also provides a range of off-campus accommodation options for students, including private rental properties, shared houses, and halls of residence. The university’s Accommodation Services team can provide advice and support to help students find the right accommodation to suit their needs, and provide guidance on the local housing market and the city’s neighborhoods.

The surrounding area of Birmingham City University is diverse and vibrant, offering a range of amenities and attractions to suit different interests and lifestyles. The university is located in the city center of Birmingham, close to a range of shops, restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions, as well as easy access to public transport. The university is also located close to a number of popular neighborhoods, including Digbeth, Soho, and Jewellery Quarter, each with their own unique character and attractions.

Overall, Birmingham City University provides a range of accommodation options for students, both on-campus and off-campus, to suit different needs and budgets, and is located in a vibrant and diverse area of Birmingham, providing students with easy access to all the city has to offer.

Birmingham City University is located in the city center of Birmingham, providing students with easy access to a range of transportation options. Some of the transportation options available to students include:

Public Transport: Birmingham City University is well connected to the city’s public transport network, with several bus routes serving the campus and the surrounding area, and two main train stations, New Street and Moor Street, located within walking distance of the campus. The university is also served by the Midland Metro, which provides easy access to other parts of the city and beyond.

Bikes: The university provides bike storage facilities on campus, making it easy for students to cycle to and from the university. Birmingham is a bike-friendly city, with several bike lanes and routes available, and the university also provides access to the Santander Cycles bike-sharing scheme, which provides affordable and convenient bike rental for students.

Cars: Birmingham City University provides limited on-campus parking facilities for students, although it is advisable to check availability in advance, as spaces are limited. The university is located close to a number of car parks in the city center, offering convenient and affordable parking for students who prefer to drive.

Taxis: Taxis are readily available in the city center of Birmingham, providing students with an easy and convenient way to get around. There are several taxi ranks located near the university, and taxi services can also be booked in advance using a mobile app.

Overall, Birmingham City University is well connected to the city’s transportation network, providing students with a range of options for getting around the city, whether by public transport, bike, car, or taxi.

What courses are offered at Birmingham City University?

BCU offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in areas such as arts, design, engineering, business, and more.

Are scholarships available for international students?

Yes, scholarships and bursaries are available for international students at BCU.

What is the campus like?

BCU has a modern and spacious campus with a range of facilities including a library, sports center, and student union.

What is the cost of tuition and living expenses?

Tuition and living costs vary depending on the course and personal circumstances, but information is available on the university’s website.

Is it possible to work while studying at BCU?

International students are allowed to work part-time while studying, but must adhere to UK working hour regulations.

What support services are available for international students?

BCU provides language support, academic support, pastoral care, and various other services to help international students settle in.

What is the student life like at BCU?

BCU has a vibrant student community with a range of clubs, societies, and events to get involved in.

Is there accommodation available for international students?

Yes, BCU offers various accommodation options for international students, both on and off-campus.

How accessible is the university by public transport?

BCU is well-connected by public transport, with several bus and train links serving the university and the surrounding area.

Are there any language requirements for international students?

Yes, international students are required to demonstrate a certain level of English language proficiency, usually via an English language test such as IELTS.

What are the entry requirements for international students?

Entry requirements vary depending on the course, but typically include academic qualifications and English language proficiency. Information is available on the university’s website.