Student Guide to University Of Birmingham 2025

About The University Of Birmingham

The University of Birmingham is a prestigious university located in Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom. Its legacy as one of the best universities in the UK started when it was one of the founding members of both the Russell Group of British research universities and the international network of research universities, Universitas 21. The university fares really well in the national and global rankings chart with an all-time high of 14th in the UK and 79th in the world in the QS World University Rankings for 2019. Other accolades include being ranked 5th in the UK for Graduate Prospects in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide. In this blog of ‘The University of Birmingham – A Complete Uni Guide’, you will find all the relevant information needed before attending uni.

The University of Birmingham is divided into five colleges, each of which is divided into a number of departments and schools. These five colleges are –

• Arts and Law
• Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Life and Environmental Sciences
• Medical and Dental Sciences
• Social Sciences

The University enjoys a stellar reputation among international students. The University of Birmingham sees over 35,700 students from approximately 150 countries. This makes the campus thrive with diversity that is essential for changing lives and transforming society.

The University Of Birmingham At A Glance

• Address – Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
• Established – 1825
• Number Of Students – 35,760
• Ranking – 
  • National:
    • 19th in the Complete University Guide Rankings 2022
    • 29th in the Guardian University Rankings 2022
  • Global:
    • 90th in QS World University Rankings 2022
    • 105th in the Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings 2022

Facilities

The folks at the University of Birmingham are continually on the lookout for new ways to improve the campus. They’ve invested heavily in the beautification and upgradation of the university. Here are just some of them –

In 2016, the university constructed a state-of-the-art library at the centre of campus. The library now has more study spaces than ever before, with plenty of reading spaces for all styles of learning.

A new world-class sports centre made in 2017. This centre boasts a 50m pool, climbing wall and a fully equipped gym.

Green Heart – A stunning new parkland in the centre of the University of Birmingham’s historic campus. With more than 12 acres of parkland, it is a peaceful green space to relax or meet friends in. You will find many students spending their free time here.

The one of a kind Collaborative Teaching Lab that acts as a catalyst for rethinking the way STEM subjects are taught at Birmingham.

The new Teaching and Learning Building that was opened up in 2020. This space provides students with new learning spaces and outstanding facilities, including more study spaces for individual and collaborative work and of course, a café. 

Campus Life

The campus of the University of Birmingham is the stuff of dreams! The layout of the campus is lovely; nestled between Chancellor’s Court and Old Joe. You have not only the sprawling green campus but also the bustling city centre just a stone’s throw away. You can instantly feel the warm and welcoming atmosphere when you walk into the campus. The university has been welcoming students from all backgrounds for over 100 years and continues to do so to this day. They have made all sorts of provisions to ensure that students have a comfortable time here. From libraries and lecture theatres to cafes and their very own student club, there’s something for everyone. Students can also find some mini-markets, a hairdresser and of course, the legendary University Sports Centre on campus. All this goes to show that students have all the tools at their disposal to have a pleasant experience at the University of Birmingham. 

Popular Courses

At the University of Birmingham, independent thinking is greatly encouraged. To supplement this, the university offers the highest quality academic experience to stretch and challenge students. At the University of Birmingham, you will get a chance to work alongside some of the finest academic minds in the world.

Here are some of the most popular courses at the University of Birmingham – 

Computer Science BSc

Accounting and Finance BSc

Aerospace Engineering BEng

MBA International Business

MSc in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

MSc in Data Science

How To Apply 

Foundation Programmes 

As a part of the Birmingham International Academy, the University of Birmingham offers a range of foundation courses that are designed to help international students who require a further year of study before enrolling for an undergraduate degree programme.

The list of programmes are as follows –

• Arts, Social Sciences, Business and Law Pathway
• Engineering and Physical Sciences Pathway
• Medical, Life and Geo Sciences Pathway
• Medical and Physiotherapy Pathway
• Engineering and Physical Sciences Pathway
• Social Sciences, Business and Law Pathway

Undergraduate Programmes 

All applications for Undergraduate Programmes in the United Kingdom need to be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Students looking to seek admission, need to make their applications online and UCAS forwards the application to the relevant universities on the student’s behalf. Applications start from September, previous to the year that you want to start.

Direct Entry Pathways 

Students who are studying at one of the University of Birmingham’s partner universities overseas can avail this opportunity to study a degree programme at the University of Birmingham as a 2nd or 3rd-year undergraduate or as a Master’s student, depending on the arrangement of the University of Birmingham has with your home institution. This means that you can start your degree study at one of the University’s partner universities and then continue your studies at the University of Birmingham and graduate with a degree from the University. 

Postgraduate Programmes

These applications have to be made directly to the University of Birmingham. 

Doctoral Research Programmes

Like Postgraduate Programmes, Doctoral Research Programmes have to be made directly to the University. The University of Birmingham does not charge application fees for these programmes. 

Student Accommodation In Birmingham

1. Athena Studios

Where?

Bristol Road, B5 7SN

About Athena Studios

Athena Studios is a pleasant student housing Birmingham on Bristol Road that provides studio rooms. At this property, you will find a host of amenities including on-site laundry, on-site maintenance, bike storage, vending machine, outdoor space and a common room. The student apartments in Birmingham come fully furnished with a WiFi connection, all-inclusive utility bills and a wardrobe. The University of Birmingham and the Birmingham Business School are the nearest universities here. The nearest train station is University. Many bus stops are located here with the nearest one being Edgbaston Park Road. 

Price Range – £235 – £264/week

2. Jennens Court

Where?

250 Jennens Road, B5 5JR

About Jennens Court

This Birmingham student accommodation is perfect for students of the University of Birmingham. The University of Birmingham is just a short walk away. The room configuration available here are en-suite rooms and studio rooms. You can expect a WiFi connection, a couch and a bed in every room. There are several bus stops within walking distance. There are several restaurants, cafés, bars and pubs within walking distance. Additional amenities provided by Jennens Court include a laundry room, a common area, outdoor space, study area, social events and bike storage. 

Price Range – £142 – £199/week

3. Mary Sturge

Where?

Aston Street, B4 7UJ

About Mary Sturge

Mary Sturge Birmingham uni accommodation is very popular among students of the University of Birmingham because of the great selection of rooms. This property proffers excellent en-suite rooms and apartments. Every room comes equipped with a single bed, study desk & chair and a WiFi connection. Students can also benefit from the contents insurance, 24/7 on-site staff, all-inclusive utility bills and bike storage. For some weekend fun, students can visit one of the many restaurants, pubs and clubs like Sacks of Potatoes, The Bull and Turtle Bay. In case of any unforeseen emergencies, Birmingham City Hospital is just a short distance away. 

Price Range – £148 – £250/week

4. Queens Hospital Close

Where?

Bath Row, Birmingham, B15 1NH

About Queens Hospital Close

With a plethora of amenities like a common room, a courtyard, car parking, a laundry room and 24/7 security staff, it is no surprise to know that Queens Hospital Close is one of the top-rated student accommodation in Birmingham. Five Ways is the closest train station whereas, Bexhill Grovel is the nearest bus stop. Restaurants like Shogun Cube, Noel’s Bar & Restaurant and Sultan Longue will keep you company on weekends. The en-suite rooms and shared apartments come with a WiFi connection, all-inclusive utility bills and an electric stove. 

Price Range – £130 – £135/week

5. Battery Park

Where?

701, Bristol road, B29 6SR

About Battery Park

This university of Birmingham accommodation provides en-suite and studio rooms. Irrespective of your room choice, you can enjoy a WiFi connection, key access and CCTV security. There is a 24/7 on-site staff available at the beck and call of students. Additional amenities include on-site laundry, on-site maintenance, bike storage and a common room. Excellent transport links mean that the nearest train station and bus stop are just a short walk away. There are many restaurants like Nando’s, Falafel Munch and Mr Yummy in the vicinity.

Price range – £179 – £259/week

Also, check out the Birmingham City University Accommodation