Best universities in Birmingham: find options near you

Visited the University of Birmingham recently and was genuinely impressed by the campus. The architecture is a beautiful blend of historic charm and modern design—Redbrick buildings with character, alongside sleek new facilities. Walking through the grounds felt inspiring, with well-kept gardens and a real sense of academic heritage. It’s easy to see why students would enjoy studying here. A great place to explore, even just as a visitor!

Was a student here and graduated in 1991. Back here after 34 years. Pretty surreal. Lots of changes especially The Vale. Student accommodation totally rebuilt and looks modern and comfortable.

The old library has been replaced with a new building and Muirhead Tower somehow enhanced but still looks ugly (IMHO). The new sports centre is superb with many facilities not available during my days.

Overall, it is a great university and anyone thinking of tertiary education in UK, don’t hesitate to consider this.

The university has a beautiful environment and is directly accessible by train

Absolutely wow! The beautiful historical buildings, the wonderful campus, the facilities and superb student accommodation, not forgetting the ease of access from London and elsewhere via the rail network. We feel so happy our girl is going to spend the next 3 years here. The welcome was exceptional from staff and students alike. All young people can flourish here.

Magnificent building and campus. One of the best universities in United Kingdom offering world class studies and research opportunities for students and scholars from across the world.

Visited university after 33 years and everything has changed. Can’t recognize most of the places since big changes have been made including moving of business school and gym. Library is even bigger now. Loved my visit after such a long time. Good memories.

Not worth the time and money. The building is beautiful but the actual quality of the lectures and the teaching is garbage. You get professors that barely speak English, instead of proper exams it’s multiple choice questions that you can just guess your way through , it’s a joke not a uni don’t get why it is rated so high.

I completed my MSc in Health Psychology this year. I had a truly positive experience at Aston University, and I want to give special thanks to Dr Megan Jarman for her exceptional teaching and support though my dissertation. Thanks to her guidance, I felt more confident in my abilities and more inspired to pursue my goals.

Nice, clean and functional with a contemporary design. The location is close enough to Birmingham to enjoy city life, but close to the ring road for easy motorway access. Theres a young fell about the area as its surrounded by a number of universities.
I wouldn’t recommend the room service as my pizza was burnt, but the breakfast was varied and constantly replenished

I visited Aston University for 3 months and I really enjoyed it. The people are very nice and friendly. It has an international atmosphere. Lecturers are very good. The campus is beautiful, especially the lake and the birds. The location of university is great, it’s close to city centre.

My experience with Aston University was generally positive, but there were some aspects that left me with mixed feelings.

The Student Support Team was excellent – they responded quickly and were always helpful. However, communication with other departments, particularly finance, was significantly slower, which was frustrating.

In terms of organisation, the university gave the impression of being well-structured. However, when it came to actual teaching engagement, I found it lacking. I studied online, and the tutor’s involvement was minimal. The feedback on the class forum felt very generic—mostly encouragement without much personalisation. While I understand that online courses have their limitations, I had expected more direct engagement from the academic staff.

My biggest concern was related to the admission process. Before applying, I was assured that no prior knowledge of Data Science was required. However, within the first week, we covered material that, according to my research, is typically taught over 4-8 weeks. Despite dedicating approximately 40 hours per week to studying, I struggled to keep up. While I acknowledge that learning speed varies from person to person, I personally don’t believe that many students without prior experience would be able to keep pace. Given this, I feel that the university should not admit students without a relevant background into the MSc Data Analytics (Online) programme.

On a positive note, Aston University offers a 28-day refund policy, and I received my refund after a month, which I greatly appreciate. In hindsight, I am glad I tried the course, as it reinforced my interest in Python, which I am now studying independently.

In conclusion, while my experience with Aston University had its strengths—particularly Student Support and the refund policy—there were significant challenges, mainly regarding the course suitability for students without prior experience and administrative communication. These aspects leave me with mixed feelings about how well the university operates behind the scenes.

They told me that Sfe refuse to pay my fees one day before my exam in May. Now they asking me to pay in full If I want to do my exams.

I paid half of the tuition, they still no want to let me do my exams since the last exams is in August

Internationals! NOT RECOMMENDED!
(Aston bussines school)
No professional lecturers,
No career support for internationals despite above the average course fee!
You can get the same degree whith 40-50% lower fee at a neighbour, Birmingham City University!
DONTBE FOOLED WITH QS/TIMES RANKINGS, THEY ARE JUST MONEY MADE!

Used footy pitches. Really great – though better changing facilities would be nice – i had to change in the toilets of the student hub

Went to the open day today with my partner and what a shock!! Having studied at Bcu myself 9 years ago it’s gone absolutely down hill. The open day if you can call it that, hardly any staff, more student ambassadors hovering about avoiding eye contact. No freebies or hot drink voucher, and not a pen in sight forget merchandise. Absolutely no excitement about the place. I know times are hard but with increase in fees make lecturers available and spend a few quid to excite prospective students. Stands there with no one to talk to, place felt deserted. Safe to say other unis were much more welcoming with experts at hand. Shame really!

Very impressed with the site, staff, facilities and educational offerings. The food and drink options and also tasty with Starbucks, Costa and pizzeria. Close enough to the city for a night out, but far enough to be quieter with an urban feel.

We went for the open day. I have to say it was brilliantly run, really well organised and everybody we met was so helpful. Undoubtedly gone near the top of the list. Organisation was the key to this day. We have visited other Uni’s and just not felt the same “feel” we felt here. Well done BCU.

Hosts Faculty of Health sciences: courses like Master of Public Health et al. Also short courses like Neonatal nursing courses…

Poorly organised lectures for the PGCE . I share a lot of the same views as someone else wrote about this course further down. Others on course also said lectures were unorganised. For what youre paying its a raw deal.Some staff members turned up to lectures talking negatively about the lack of organisation. No diversity in staff in this specific department (white). I raised this issue with a senior staff member about cultural differences as I couldn’t relate to any of them, i was dismissed and gaslit and told it was diverse because there were different genders white male and white female (yet still staff members were white). Classes were boring and not adapted to changing environment. Wouldn’t reccomend.

A good and supportive university, beautiful building and plenty of space to study. However the technology is often faulty, if the internet isn’t down it’s the printers or the laptops. Also communication between course directors and students is lacking which results in disorganisation. The staff are friendly though and they’re willing to help with any issue. It’s just sometimes difficult to do work when you’re having to overcome obstacle after obstacle which could have been avoided with improved maintenance or communication

Before the pandemic it was great and vibrant. Unfortunately the student experience is somewhat non-existent. Booking a library slot is important if you hope to loan books or use study space. Covid protocols has led to the university smelling like a hospital, which is reassuring. There are also sanitising items everywhere so no need to worry, you can wipe down surfaces before and after use. Can’t wait for some normalcy to return.

Post pandemic, masks are optional and are still available at the front desk.

Calm and focused environment, ideal for studying and research. It has a good selection of books, and helpful staff. The study areas are clean, well lit and suitable for both group work and independent study.

Love it here, induction was amazing, friendly faces everywhere, staff who are willing to help you succeed as long as you ready to put in the work. This university is the right place for you if you will to achieve your goals. Clean ventilated environment, good historical background. I just love being part of the new family, because that’s what this university is to me and a lot of people.

As a student here, I must say that Newman itself is a good institution. However, a significant concern lies with the behavior of the security personnel. One particular individual exhibited extreme rudeness and disrespect towards students, unnecessarily provoking a situation.

It is understandable that security personnel have an important role in ensuring the safety of students. However, their conduct should not involve bullying or intimidation. Such behavior undermines their primary responsibility and creates an environment where students feel unsafe and disrespected.

I have experienced security concerns on two separate occasions.

I have had very poor experiences with this university. I attempted my PGCE with them a few years ago, but every aspect of my experience was negative.

I had placement in a school which did not want me there or wanted to help me succeed. My mentor barely spoke to me or instructed me in anything. The university immediately put me on a cause for a concern without addressing any issues I was having with the school; apparently, all fault was with me. Once I was removed from the school placement, it took months to find a replacement. Despite my best efforts, it appeared that the university was no longer concerned with helping me but more than happy to let me linger on in order to receive my student loans.

My mental health was severely affected; I was made to feel like I was in the wrong in everything. I was made to feel like a failure. The counselling service provided at the university were practically non-existent; I only received email responses from certain members of staff after they were informed that I had attempted to take my own life. I was put on medical leave and never heard from the university again.

Thankfully, I have taken other courses and achieving my dream in educating children. I am in a much better place now than I ever thought possible. I only share my experiences to allow others to reflect and, hopefully, avoid the difficulties that I faced.

Birmingham Newman University provides a nurturing environment with dedicated faculty and a strong emphasis on personalized learning. It’s a great choice for students seeking a supportive academic community.

David, James, Dom,Mo and co. Great team always helpful and there to help with training. I tend to just do my own thing but they make that possible by being good at their job. Great service and unfussy atmosphere at the gymn. Excellent

I’m a 3rd year student, who has loved my time at Newman. The lecturers are so supportive in your choice of topics you wish to study, and during the teaching time the lessons planned are encouraging others to voice their opinions on different topics. I also find the campus easy to navigate around, and even if I was to get lost there’s always someone to ask for help.

I went to UCB for 2 years and finished my Level 3 Construction & the Build Environment course. One of the best College or University in Birmingham education wise but would’ve been five star if it was safe. It should be safe because it’s near city centre. As a Muslim there are 2 mosques around the college one is on Lionel Street Masjid which is like under a bridge i’ll post a picture of the street below and the other branch of the mosque is on a street near the fountain where the Town-hall is.

Overall Tutors are amazing, they do their best but it’s always up to the student how much work they put in.

My three years studying Aesthetics at UCB Birmingham were truly fantastic, largely thanks to the brilliant teaching staff. They’re not just experts in their field, but genuinely passionate educators who made every lesson engaging and informative.
I really valued their up-to-date knowledge and how they brought theory to life with hands-on practical sessions. They were always approachable, offered excellent support, and gave constructive feedback that genuinely helped me improve.
The teachers at UCB’s Aesthetics department created a fantastic learning environment, preparing me thoroughly for my career. Highly recommend!

My experience at University College Birmingham was really positive overall. I loved how approachable and friendly the teachers were – they made a big difference in my learning journey. The support services were also top-notch, always there to lend a helping hand when I needed it. And the modern labs and resources were fantastic, really helped me stay on top of my coursework.

My only gripe was the lack of outdoor space to chill out – no playground or big green areas to hang out with friends. Still, the academic vibe and supportive atmosphere made UCB a great place to be!

Did my MSc in Strength, Conditioning and Performance and really enjoyed it. The staff are very friendly and approachable, easy to get along with, also, they are always happy to go over minor topics or theories people are unsure of. Definitely a recommended place to study.

I completed my degree in International Tourism Management at University College Birmingham, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. All my lecturers were amazing and incredibly supportive, always willing to help and guide us. The modules were well-chosen and provided a comprehensive understanding of the tourism industry. Throughout my time there, I felt that the university was genuinely invested in our success, offering plenty of resources and support, including financial assistance for students. I couldn’t recommend this university enough – it’s truly the best place to study!

I had a very disappointing experience at this university. It often felt like the focus was more on making money than truly supporting students. Many students face issues with inconsistent and unfair grading—where one supervisor may pass an assignment, but if it is reviewed by someone else, it gets failed. Some of the staff also lack professionalism in how they treat students, which creates a stressful learning environment.

I successfully passed all of my exams, but unfortunately, during the time of my dissertation, I had a serious accident and hand was completely broke . Despite my difficult circumstances, instead of offering support or consideration, the university failed me. Rather than helping me through this hard time, I was left with no option but to repeat the entire year—which is extremely unfair.

Their tuition fees are also higher than many other universities, making the situation even harder, especially for international students who invest so much in their education and travel far from home expecting better treatment.

I would not recommend this university, particularly for international students looking for a fair, supportive academic experience.

University College Birmingham (UCB) has garnered strong student satisfaction and notable accolades in recent years. In the 2024 National Student Survey, UCB achieved an 84.5% satisfaction score, surpassing the sector average by six percentage points, particularly excelling in areas like assessment clarity and responsiveness to student feedback . The university also stood out in the 2023 Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey, ranking first out of 101 institutions for postgraduate support and resources, and placing fourth overall in student satisfaction . Further affirming its commitment to student experience, UCB was recognized in the 2024 Whatuni Student Choice Awards as the top university in the West Midlands, securing regional wins in student support, international experience, and postgraduate provision . Student reviews reflect this positive sentiment, with ratings averaging 4.3 out of 5 on Whatuni and 4.22 out of 5 on StudentCrowd , highlighting the university’s supportive environment, quality teaching, and inclusive community.

BCUIC is one of the most modernized institution in the UK, I have had an amazing and a memorable experience studying here. The staff is very helpful and is always available for the students to answer any queries promptly. The tutors and the course leaders are highly professional and the courses being taught are very valuable. BCUIC empowers students by providing an opportunity to become the part of the student council and have your say. This college also encourages and appreciates its students by providing not only academic based certificates but also for extra circular activities and being part of the BCUIC. This international college has a multi cultural environment to socialize with students from different parts of the world which makes it easy for a new student to blend in and learn new things. BCUIC is a credible platform which plays its important role to help students progress in their way forward. I would definitely and highly recommend the students who are planning to come abroad to study, this is the place you should choose which you won’t regret and will have a fantastic time with learning involved.

Great university with high quality education.As a International student over here i would like to highlight that BCUIC is an excellent institution to do your studies. Location of the university is fantastic as its 10 minute walk to the city centre. The teaching is excellent and the lecturers are very
kind and helpful. They also help you find a placement if you choose to do one.

BCUIC is an education facility that boasts of a wide range of different cultures all blended together for the perfect learning opportunity. As a Zimbabwean who had spent most of my educational experience in my own home country, I was not keen on overseas study. But since joining the college I managed to enrol on an undergraduate pathway foundation in law which was daunting at first but the staff made it easier and probably my best experience abroad. Besides the set up of classrooms, the staff and tutors are patient with international students and are always willing to assist you. Of course the cultural differences may create language barriers but the tutors always aim to encourage students to learn and be confident in their own learning experience. The lecturers I had were friendly and always had spare time to explain things through if I felt I hadn’t understood the session, which is difficult for other institutions as they tend not to have that person-centred teaching approach that encourages personal tuition. The lecturers are happy to assist every student and always let you know that they are at your disposal. I can confidently say that I achieved 7As and 1B because of the support that I received from the staff and the teaching schedules along with the resources available to me as a student. Most people choosing the college have no idea that as it is affiliated with the main university, BCU, students use facilities from the main university too such as the library and classrooms. This means you get an insight into the university before completing your foundation year. Not all universities do this as sometimes the college is detached and in a different location. I enjoyed my time at BCUIC and would recommend this college to any student who’s looking to benefit from an institution that caters to the needs of every individual student and is constantly looking to improve the well-being of every student. The college is conveniently in the heart of the city within walking distance to the world famous shopping mall as well as markets and restaurants. The city of Birmingham is the UK’s youngest city making it a plethora of opportunities for university graduates and a perfect student community. BCUIC is also not far from major transport links such as Birmingham International airport, Birmingham’s Grand Central station and is also surrounded by the beautiful canals making it a beautiful spot to relax after a lecture or on a beautiful summer day.

BCUIC is an interesting, exciting college that will inspire you, equip you with essential skills for university and change your life forever.

BCUIC is not just an institute it’s a home for International students. I had a great experience studying in this institute. BCUIC provides its students with every possible facility which an International student is looking forward to. BCUIC’s facilities are constantly improving with the passage of time. I have been able to witness the development that they have made to their facilities and to the college as a whole. BCUIC provides high range of courses with experienced teachers. This college has given me a lot of opportunities including paid internship which helped me learn new skills and to gain work experience beside my studies. Moreover, there are over 100 societies to join I was involved with 3 and I would encourage other students to indulge in such activities as it helps you grow your social circle and help you explore yourself. Overall, I am optimistic about BCUIC and as an International student it’s been fantastic experience and I couldn’t have asked for something better. It has been a life changing experience for me and I am so glad that I made the decision to study at BCUIC. I will recommend all the International students who are planning to study abroad, BCUIC is an Institute you should opt for not only in terms of programs, quality of education, qualified and experienced teachers but also for its campus.

Charmaine Samudzimu

My Experience at BCUIC so far has been flawless and life changing. Although I only started in january, the student ambassadors and staff were exceptional and allowed for successful intergration into University life. I cannot wait to proceed further.

Lessons – the lessons are extremely well thought out well planned, allow for constant student collaboration, aim at making you professional and work ready and accommodate every type of learner. I especially love the use of the interactive white boards this makes examples easier to understand.

University Facilities – although the university could do with more space for students there are tea and coffee facilities available for the cold weather and that keeps you going throughout the day.

City life- BCUIC is constantly planning affordable trips to places such as Cambridge and London which gives you the opportunity to travel and become more comfortable in your surroundings.

Student support- is extremely good. The student representatives are inspiring and leave no stone unturned. When it comes to being the voice of all students they are loud and proud and make intergration into BCUIC extremely swift.

Staff- invested in making BCUIC journey worthwhile. Friendly and constantly motivating. No excuse or room for failure in the hands of BCUIC staff.

I am currently student at Birmingham City University International College. I am studying here from September 2018. As an international student and as a Student Ambassador, I have learned a lot from this college as this college has encourage me to be an activist. I myself never felt like I am far from home because the staff members are really supportive and we always have their back, they create very friendly and welcoming as well as encouraging environment around the college. This college give equal chance to all the students to take responsibilities and take part in different activities. I feel really fabulous to be part of Birmingham City University International College as I myself have achieved so many things like BCUIC gave chance to handle their official Instagram account and I got chance to volunteer. So overall, my experience as student in BCUIC is really Amazing!

I am so thankful to have school like Bcuic here in Birmingham uk. The leadership puts the needs of the students first and the staff are dedicated to meet those academic needs. BCUIC is a great School, the teachers are very nice, the environment is safe, convenient and conducive. Free WiFi for all student, student can borrow laptops for free, the Ask deck is available for all student with issues, the library is so amazing and very quiet.

Fresh and new study facility

Another well-organised event today at Moss House.

It’s a good university.

One of the best buildings of BCU equipped with technology.

Nice building

It was quiet

Fine

Small but the environment is good. Teachers are friendly enough. Encourages students to think outside the box.

Recommend the university, tutors are very knowledgeable and committed.. I have loads of support and specialist equipment from DSA and have made some lovely friends. Staff go above and beyond to help you. This experience has changed my life for the good. Thank you UWTSD

Worst management and silly roles I lost my student card and they asked me 10 £to pay!!!! They already take 9000 £ year tuition fee.
Week services I hope next year change my University. Finance lady is arrogant addition team very bad experiences. So for tuition fees they take its very poor service.

I recently studied at the university in Quay place Birmingham city centre. I was amazed by the tutors commitment and how they wanted all students to progress. Many students who have decided to return to university after being out Education for a long time. Have now developed self- belief that anything is possible. Their confidence and communication with other students from around the world has opened up the doors to further opportunities. I can say this UWTSD once students have completed Thier respected courses they are now equipped and ready to engage in employment opportunities that will come Thier way now and in the future.

Great university to modern resources, very technical, very structured with good student support and professors.

The worst university! Low quality education, and very unprofessional staff.
Warning ⚠️.. don’t recommend this university at all.

Good university to attend.

I had a terrible experience at this test center. The staff was extremely unprofessional and lacked basic manners. Instead of maintaining a respectful and supportive environment, they were rude and disruptive. I was given unnecessary warnings while I was focusing on my test, which made it difficult to concentrate. Their behavior was completely unacceptable for a place that is supposed to facilitate important exams. I would not recommend this test center to anyone. It’s the worst place to book your test.

Thanks for your efforts! I am pleased to be part of this University. When I was in my home country, I read reviews here and I must admit that I was really doubtful about this institution. But since I came here, I am really happy and grateful for your efforts to provide the best for your students. Thank you.

All the best,

The university is refusing to REFUND a school fees deposit when CAS is not granted.
It’s more than 2 months now and every time you call the finance department they say they are waiting for a management approval.
They don’t respond to the follow up emails either.
I suggest you apply a different university if you must study in the UK.

Worst experience! Concerned with their fees! Least facilitating their students and worthless institution! Negligent management! Most of the time their management is unable to help since they themselves don’t know what’s going on. if you want to progress and work on your self I would suggest you to choose some other university rather then going for this!
Because no matter how hard you prepare and try for your exams or your grades, know that your hard work is already in vain!
I remember how my tort SBAQ exam was vanished and lost by this university and they didn’t even bother telling me how it happened and I had to resit that exams because of their negligence!apart from everything they failed me by one mark again and wasted my and other international students opportunity to work on their dreams.
PATHETIC!
Writing this from my heart.

Worthless university. I have applied for my refund and have been waiting for the mail since last month. They are not doing single mail to me regarding my refund. Even I am calling them and they are not picking up. If they are busy at one time,then they should pick it up second time, but to be honest i have called them 7 times today and 10 times since last week.

So apply accordingly they may not respond you in future as same as me.
Thank you

Terrible uni avoid!! Not even a uni to be honest. Literally for profit uni who takes your deposit and does not return it or respond sufficiently. Literally go elsewhere this is not the place to study. They will take your money and their ethics are terrible so clearly shows how they operate.

The university had failed me for one of my exams, telling me I didn’t submit any coursework. After a month of contacting the assessment department they regraded and gave me my earned grade with no apology or a reason as to why I had been failed. Exam season came round again and I was failed again for another exam with no reasoning, I have contacted the assessments department again with no reply as of yet. I’m not sure what their agenda is, whether its to fail some people to have less people moving onto a particular degree from a foundation year or are they just simply bad at their jobs. With this university, it feels as though, on top of completing assignments to the best of our ability, we have to watch over staff to be sure they’re grading us fairly if at all. I’ve only been at this university for a year and I can honestly say you’re better off going to a well established university who you can trust with your assignments.

For all its bright new looks lots poor set-up…toilets are locked even for radar and one old entrance closed for access south bound. In the heat the glue on non÷slip flooring is coming off.

A nice-looking new station for the University of Birmingham, modern and clean and much better than the old one. Access to the university is very convenient with wheel chair accessible paths as well as lifts.

Cavernous new-build station with enhanced accessibility but de rigueur lack of seating and, surprisingly given all that wasted space, no coffee or snack concession. If you arrive at the drop-off point, the (impressive but somehow too subtle) entrance is to the left; don’t head towards the BR sign over the bridge in the distance, that’s exit-only. In Xanadu did Kubla Khan a stately pleasure-dome decree but West Mids Railway got this confusing and slightly underwhelming edifice for probably only 90% of the same cost on the outskirts of Edgbaston so who’s to say which got the better deal?

Severe lack of bins and phone service but otherwise serves its purpose. Make sure to get there early when catching the 16:26 to Lichfield as the platform often gets closed up to 10 minutes prior due to overcrowding. There is also an unfathomable amount of stairs up to the main entrance on the uni side but makes for a good workout, especially when in a rush.

Appalling for a brand new station with barriers that recommend tickets purchased on a phone, having abysmal wifi reception near the ticket gates is just not good enough! Why as well are the old gates (which have no reception problems) now exit only? Sort it out!!!

The new buildings at this station provide plenty of space which suits the amount of passengers, however the narrow feeling platforms which are tilted on the south bound side feel very small. The north bound platform to central Birmingham can get very busy.

New train station in University of Birmingham. Very convenient.