Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University (BU) is a leading modern university in the UK, recognised for its commitment to innovation, industry engagement, and impactful education. The university’s roots date back to the early 20th century with the establishment of Bournemouth Municipal College. Its modern development began in the early 1970s with the creation of the Bournemouth College of Technology, laying the foundation for the dynamic institution that exists today.

BU is built around a powerful guiding principle: “To learn is to change.” This motto reflects the university’s commitment to transformation through education, research, professional practice, and public engagement. Students become part of a learning community dedicated to making a positive impact on society, striving to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and healthy world.

Today, BU is home to over 19,000 students and more than 1,500 staff, including over 1,600 international students from more than 135 countries. Academic excellence at BU is delivered through three main faculties: the Faculty of Business and Law, the Faculty of Health, Environment & Medical Sciences, and the Faculty of Media, Science and Technology.

These faculties provide industry-connected, future-focused programmes designed to equip students with adaptability, practical skills, and the confidence to succeed in a rapidly evolving global workforce. BU graduates are well prepared for global careers, and alumni can be found in senior roles within leading organisations worldwide.

BU is also internationally recognised for its commitment to sustainability and progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, achieving joint 1st place globally for Responsible Consumption and Production and 9th place for Decent Work and Economic Growth. The university contributes more than £1 million per day to the local economy, demonstrating its strong economic and social influence within the region.

In addition, the university holds the Athena Swan Bronze Award, highlighting its dedication to gender equality, while the Students’ Union at BU has received Investors in Diversity accreditation.

Located in the scenic coastal town of Bournemouth, the university offers students a supportive academic environment within a close-knit community. The town’s welcoming atmosphere, mild climate, and beautiful surroundings create an ideal setting for both academic achievement and personal growth. Its location, approximately two hours from London, allows students to benefit from both a peaceful coastal lifestyle and easy access to one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

Through its strong academic foundations, global outlook, and commitment to meaningful change, Bournemouth University continues to develop forward-thinking graduates ready to shape the future.

Bournemouth University (BU) provides a comprehensive and inclusive Student Services system designed to support students throughout their academic journey. The university’s integrated approach ensures that students receive professional guidance, welfare support, and practical resources that enable them to succeed academically and personally. Student Services at BU are committed to empowering both students and staff to perform at their best while maintaining a safe, supportive, and inclusive university environment.

The central hub for student support is The Hub, located in Poole House on Talbot Campus. This is the main point of contact for students seeking advice or assistance with university-related matters. Friendly advisers provide guidance on a wide range of topics, helping students find solutions quickly and efficiently. In addition, AskBU acts as a convenient one-stop service where students can submit enquiries online, contact advisers by phone, or speak directly with staff at Talbot or Lansdowne Campus.

BU offers dedicated support for students with specific academic or personal needs. The Disability & Additional Learning Support (ALS) service provides information, advice, and guidance for students with disabilities or additional learning requirements. International students also benefit from specialised assistance through the Immigration Compliance and Advice Team, which provides guidance on student visa applications, visa extensions, working restrictions, and travel within the EU during studies. These advisers are fully trained in immigration regulations and are the only team at BU authorised to provide formal immigration advice.

Student wellbeing is a key priority at BU. The university offers Counselling and Wellbeing services, providing free, confidential, and specialist support to students who may require emotional or mental health assistance. The University Front Room on Talbot Campus provides a safe and welcoming space for students who feel overwhelmed and need immediate support. In addition, the Student Assistance Programme offers round-the-clock access to advisers or counsellors for mental health guidance and support.

Healthcare services are also available through the BU Medical Centre, located at Talbot House on Talbot Campus. The centre provides a full range of medical services and health advice to all BU students. Additional independent support is available through the SUBU Advice Centre, which offers free and confidential guidance on academic matters, housing, personal issues, and financial concerns.

Academic success is supported through excellent learning facilities, including the Sir Michael Cobham Library on Talbot Campus and the Weston Library on Lansdowne Campus. These libraries offer extensive electronic and print resources, modern study spaces, computers, and facilities for printing, photocopying, and scanning. Students can also book fully equipped study rooms to support individual or group learning.

BU also places strong emphasis on career preparation through CareersBU, the university’s Employability and Skills Team. CareersBU supports students from the first day of their degree and continues to provide guidance even after graduation. Services include career consultations, job boards, careers fairs, workshops, webinars, and the Employability Skills Programme. Students also gain access to resources that help develop professional skills, including CV and cover letter guidance, interview preparation, networking strategies, psychometric tests, and assessment centre preparation.

Together, these comprehensive services ensure that Bournemouth University students receive the support, guidance, and resources they need to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.

Bournemouth University (BU) is widely recognised for its academic quality, research impact, student support, and commitment to sustainability. Through consistent performance in respected global and national rankings, the university has established itself as a strong modern institution that delivers high-quality education and meaningful outcomes for its students.

In the QS World University Rankings 2026, Bournemouth University is ranked #801–850 globally, demonstrating its growing international presence and academic reputation. The university also performs strongly within Europe, ranking 295th out of 958 institutions in the QS World University Rankings: Europe 2026. BU has also been recognised among the top 150 young universities worldwide in the QS Top 50 Under 50 rankings, highlighting its success as a relatively young and dynamic university.

Sustainability is a key strength of BU. In the QS Sustainability Ranking 2026, the university is placed #91 globally, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable development. The institution also performs strongly in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, where it ranks 74th globally for its contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Notably, BU ranks 2nd in the UK and 18th internationally for SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, recognising its strong focus on work placements and career preparation.

In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, Bournemouth University is placed 41st overall in the UK and within the top 500 universities worldwide. The university also ranks 21st in the UK for Research Quality, highlighting the strength and impact of its academic research.

National rankings further confirm BU’s strong performance. In the Complete University Guide 2025, the university is ranked 56th in the UK and placed among the top 10 universities in the South West of England. The university also holds a Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Silver rating, recognising the consistently high quality of teaching and positive student outcomes. Student satisfaction and well-being are additional areas where BU excels. The university was awarded first place for Mental Health and Wellbeing Support at the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025, reflecting strong student feedback and support services. Meanwhile, the Students’ Union at BU (SUBU) was voted Best Students’ Union in the South West of England for two consecutive years.

BU’s focus on career success is reflected in its outcomes: 89% of graduates are in employment or further study, according to Higher Education Statistics Agency Graduate Outcomes 2022/23. Additionally, the university ranks among the top 10 most affordable places to study in the NatWest Student Living Index 2025, helping students manage their finances while enjoying a high-quality university experience.

These rankings collectively demonstrate Bournemouth University’s commitment to academic excellence, sustainability, student wellbeing, and career-focused education.

Student life at Bournemouth University (BU) offers a vibrant and engaging experience that extends far beyond the classroom. With a strong focus on community, extracurricular activities, and well-being, the university provides numerous opportunities for students to build friendships, develop skills, and enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

A key part of student life at BU is the Students’ Union at Bournemouth University (SUBU). Run by students, for students, SUBU is dedicated to enhancing the university experience. It provides opportunities to make friends, share ideas, access support, and participate in a wide range of activities. Students can choose how involved they wish to be, with access to over 80 clubs and societies covering interests such as sports, culture, media, and hobbies. If a specific interest is not represented, SUBU also helps students create their own societies.

SUBU also organises numerous social events and activities throughout the year. Popular venues include The Old Fire Station, the Students’ Union’s own nightclub that hosts events and society gatherings, and Dylan’s Bar & Kitchen on Talbot Campus for a relaxed social atmosphere.

The Student Shop on campus provides snacks, merchandise, and study essentials, with profits reinvested into student services. One of the biggest highlights of the academic year is the SUBU Summer Ball, the largest of its kind in the UK, which welcomes around 5,000 students for a celebratory end-of-year event.

Students are encouraged to develop leadership and professional skills through roles such as Student Representatives or other elected positions. SUBU also operates a student media team that manages a radio station, television channel, and magazine, offering valuable experience for those interested in media and communication. Volunteering opportunities are widely available, allowing students to contribute to community initiatives and sustainability projects such as beach clean-ups.

Beyond social activities, BU provides a variety of cultural and creative outlets, including a music centre, choirs, orchestras, and an art gallery. The ResLifeBU programme, led by student representatives, organises regular events such as quiz nights, craft workshops, Colour Runs, and even yoga sessions on the beach, helping students connect with their peers and build a sense of community.

Sport also plays a major role in campus life through SportBU, which offers excellent facilities including a gym, fitness studios, a sports hall, and the 65-acre Chapel Gate multi-sports site. Facilities include a Strength and Conditioning Suite, training zones, and football pitches, providing opportunities for both competitive athletes and students who simply want to stay active.

The university’s location in Bournemouth further enriches student life. The town features seven miles of golden sandy beaches, beautiful parks, and a lively town centre filled with cafés, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Nearby attractions include the stunning Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO natural heritage site, and the scenic New Forest National Park, offering forests, trails, and wildlife.

With a welcoming community, outstanding facilities, and an exciting coastal location, Bournemouth University provides students with an enriching and memorable university experience.

Bournemouth University (BU) provides a wide range of accommodation options designed to suit different lifestyles, study levels, and preferences. From modern halls of residence with ensuite rooms to shared student houses, BU ensures that students have access to comfortable and well-located living spaces during their studies.

Many accommodation options are located close to the university’s main campuses and the vibrant town centre of Bournemouth, allowing students to enjoy convenient access to academic facilities, public transport, and local amenities.

On the Lansdowne Campus, several purpose-built residences offer modern student living. Bailey Point provides contemporary accommodation within walking distance of the beach, town centre, and main railway station. Chesil House, a smaller residence with just over 200 students, offers a close-knit living community. Cranborne House, home to around 500 undergraduate students, and Purbeck House, which accommodates more than 500 students, both offer lively environments where students can socialise and connect with peers.

Lyme Regis House, housing around 400 students, is also centrally located on the Lansdowne Campus and provides easy access to the beach and the town centre. Dorchester House, one of the largest residences, accommodates approximately 590 students and also includes 60 postgraduate studio flats.

For students seeking smaller or quieter living arrangements, BU offers several alternative options. Corfe House, home to around 300 students, is located near Poole Harbour and provides convenient transport links to both campuses. Okeford House offers accommodation for fewer than 100 residents and is close to local shops, cafés, and restaurants in Winton. St John’s Road provides a smaller residence specifically for postgraduate students, with just 28 residents.

The Student Village, located on the edge of Talbot Campus, offers a housing-style environment within walking distance of university facilities and accessible via the university bus service. Additionally, Unilet properties provide fully furnished shared houses for four to six students. Although privately owned, these properties are managed by BU to ensure consistent quality and standards.

With a variety of accommodation choices and convenient locations, Bournemouth University ensures students have a comfortable and supportive living environment throughout their academic journey.