Often described as an oasis at the heart of Birmingham city centre; all departments and facilities on one compact, friendly campus, just 10 minutes' walk from New Street train station. Halls of residence for all first year students, international students, postgraduates and the majority of final years (all with telephonelinternet points); ranging from ensuite Lakeside residences, to traditional halls directly opposite the academic departments with 24-hour access to computing facilities.
Library facilities (next to the halls) open 13 hours/day during the week (4-7 hours at weekends). Two sports centres on campus with excellent fitness equipment, gym facilities and provide fitness programmes for all levels of enthusiasts.
Diverse student body comprising many religious and cultural backgrounds, some mature students, many postgraduates and lots of international students. University very understanding about changing course in the first term - even allowing complete course changes.
Constantly improving provision for students with physical and learning disabilities and those suffering with mental ill-health. Students' Guild very popular; home to the Job Shop and Student Advice Centre providing legal, financial, personal or academic advice and support. Guild also provides student shop, copy shop, 3 bars, hairdresser, bank and a licensed convenience store in the middle of campus. It also co-ordinates around 50 clubs and societies, sports clubs, eg rugby, football, badminton, ski & snowboard, and societies, eg Islamic, singaporean and extreme ironing societies.
Guild provides vast number of volunteering opportunities both in and outside the Guild; and it runs a wide range of entertainments, a coffee bar (open to students and staff) and Einsteins Bar (great to eat, drink and enjoy yourself). Birmingham is flourishing and very student friendly; it has shopping centres, a wealth of night time entertainment in clubs, bars and theatres, major sporting and musical venues (NEC, MA, Aston Villa and Birmingham City FCs, Alexandra Stadium and Symphony Hall).
University has excellent academic facilities in all subject areas and strong links with industry (most courses offer a year in industry), resulting in high graduate employment rate. It is increasing student numbers while maintaining high academic standards.
