Buckinghamshire New University
High Wycombe, United Kingdom
Buckinghamshire New University
High Wycombe, United Kingdom
Founded
1891
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
19,670+
Acceptance Rate
~81%
Discover Buckinghamshire New University (BNU)
Discover Buckinghamshire New University (BNU)
Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) is a public university located in Buckinghamshire, England, with campuses in High Wycombe, Aylesbury, Uxbridge, and Great Missenden. Originally established as the School of Science and Art in 1891, the institution was founded with public funds and began by providing evening classes to residents of High Wycombe and the surrounding area. Today, BNU is known for its employment-focused and skills-based education that combines practical teaching with academic research and industry work placements.
BNU delivers education through three academic colleges and offers over 300 courses spanning diverse sectors such as business, health and social care, creative arts, aviation, nursing, and law. The university has a strong vocational focus, with many programmes incorporating internships and partnerships with industry professionals. BNU holds a Silver Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) accreditation and is a member of GuildHE.
With students from more than 50 countries, BNU fosters an inclusive and diverse campus community. The university is ranked 2nd in the South East for student satisfaction in the Complete University Guide 2026, and 95% of BNU graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. Its main campus in High Wycombe is just 30 minutes from central London by train and 20 minutes from Heathrow Airport.
Key Milestones
- 1891: Founded as the School of Science and Art in High Wycombe, funded by public taxation on beer and spirits.
- 1975: High Wycombe College of Art and Technology merged with Newland Park College of Education to form Buckinghamshire College of Higher Education.
- 1999: Awarded University College status by the government, becoming Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College.
- 2007: Granted full university status by the Privy Council, officially becoming Buckinghamshire New University.
Academic Structure and Colleges
Academic Structure and Colleges
BNU delivers its employment-focused and skills-based education through three academic colleges and professional services directorates. The university offers a broad spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes tailored to align with the demands of various industries, with a strong emphasis on hands-on, practical learning.
School of Nursing and Healthcare
Offers programmes in nursing, paramedic science, and allied health professions, primarily based at the Uxbridge campus with state-of-the-art clinical simulation labs.
- BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing
- BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science
- MSc Physiotherapy
School of Business, Law and Computing
Covers business management, law, accounting, computing, and data science with strong industry links and embedded placement opportunities throughout the curriculum.
- BA (Hons) Business Management
- LLB (Hons) Law
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science
School of Art, Design and Performance
Provides creative programmes in fine art, graphic design, fashion, film, and performing arts, supported by specialist studios and production facilities.
- BA (Hons) Graphic Design
- BA (Hons) Film and Television Production
- BA (Hons) Fashion Design
School of Aviation and Security
Home to the award-winning Air Transport with Commercial Pilot Training programme, offering students the opportunity to study for a professional pilot's licence alongside university studies.
- BSc (Hons) Air Transport with Commercial Pilot Training
- BSc (Hons) Cyber Security
- MSc Intelligence and Security
School of Sport, Health and Social Sciences
Focuses on sport science, psychology, social work, and public health, combining theoretical knowledge with practical fieldwork and community-based projects.
- BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science
- BSc (Hons) Psychology
- BA (Hons) Social Work
School of Media, Music and Events
Delivers programmes in music production, media, events management, and creative industries, with access to professional-grade recording studios and production suites.
- BA (Hons) Music Production
- BA (Hons) Events and Festival Management
- BA (Hons) Music Business and Media Management
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- UCAS Tariff Points88 - 136 points (varies by programme)
- IELTS Score6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component)
- Academic QualificationsSecondary school certificate or equivalent with good grades
- Application MethodVia UCAS (institution code B94) or BNU online portal
- Supporting DocumentsAcademic transcripts, personal statement, reference letter, passport copy
Postgraduate Admission
- Degree RequirementMinimum 2:2 Bachelor's degree or international equivalent
- IELTS Score6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in each component)
- Application MethodDirect application via BNU online portal
- Supporting DocumentsAcademic transcripts, degree certificate, personal statement, references, passport copy
- Work ExperienceRelevant experience may substitute for academic requirements on some programmes
Deadline for undergraduate applications to receive equal consideration for September entry.
Final date for undergraduate applications through UCAS for September intake.
Postgraduate applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Early application is recommended to secure a place.
Apply for accommodation by this date to be guaranteed a place in university halls of residence.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Buckinghamshire New University offers competitive tuition fees compared to many other UK universities, making it an attractive option for international students. The university also provides a range of scholarships and bursaries to help support students financially throughout their studies.
| Fee Category | UK Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | GBP 9,535 | GBP 14,250 - 16,000 |
| Postgraduate Tuition | GBP 8,000 - 10,000 | GBP 14,800 - 18,100 |
| Accommodation (approx.) | GBP 4,500 - 6,500 | GBP 4,500 - 6,500 |
| Living Expenses (estimated) | GBP 9,000 - 12,000 | GBP 9,000 - 12,000 |
| Total | GBP 22,035 - 29,035 | GBP 32,550 - 42,600 |
Vice Chancellor's International Student Scholarship
A merit-based scholarship available to self-funded international students enrolled in full-time programmes at BNU, offering tuition fee reductions across multiple years of study.
- Value: Up to GBP 5,000 over the course of study
- Eligibility: Self-funded international fee-paying students with an offer for a full-time programme
- Application: Automatically assessed upon enrolment; no separate application required
GREAT Scholarships Programme
BNU participates in the GREAT Scholarships scheme supporting high-achieving postgraduate students from selected countries worldwide.
- Value: GBP 10,000 toward tuition fees
- Eligibility: Applicants with a 2:1 undergraduate degree, IELTS 6.5, and no prior UK study experience
- Countries: Available to students from selected countries; check BNU website for current list
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
BNU operates across multiple campuses in Buckinghamshire and Middlesex, with the main campus located on Queen Alexandra Road in High Wycombe. The university has invested significantly in modern facilities, including specialist studios, simulation labs, and a state-of-the-art gym, providing students with an excellent learning environment.
The main campus features the modern Gateway Building, specialist studios for art and design, film and TV production facilities, and a well-equipped library.
The Uxbridge campus serves as the base for nursing and healthcare students, featuring state-of-the-art clinical simulation labs and applied healthcare research facilities.
Completed in 2009, the student village offers 410 en-suite rooms in a peaceful setting just 15 minutes' walk from the main campus.
Housing and Dining
Student Accommodation
BNU offers 885 rooms across three main halls of residence in High Wycombe. First-year students are guaranteed accommodation provided they apply by August 31. All halls are within walking distance of the campus and town centre.
- Hughenden Park Student Village – 410 en-suite rooms, 15 min walk from campus
- Brook Street Halls – 396 rooms, 5 min walk from campus, most affordable option
- Windsor House – Town centre location, en-suite and studio room options available
Campus Facilities
BNU's campuses feature modern learning spaces, professional-grade studios, and comprehensive student support services. The Gateway Gym provides fitness equipment and hosts a variety of sporting activities for all students.
- Two libraries at High Wycombe and Uxbridge with online resources and study spaces
- Specialist flight simulators, music studios, TV production suites, and nursing simulation labs
- Gateway Gym with fitness equipment, basketball, badminton, martial arts, and more
Student Life at BNU
Student Life at BNU
Student life at BNU is vibrant and inclusive, centred around a highly rated Students' Union that has been ranked in the top 10 in the UK. Through the unique Big Deal scheme, all clubs, societies, sports teams, and campus activities are completely free for every student.
High Wycombe and Surrounding Area
High Wycombe and Surrounding Area
Life in High Wycombe
Situated approximately halfway between London and Oxford, High Wycombe is the second-largest town in Buckinghamshire. It combines the charm of a historic market town with modern amenities, offering busy market stalls three days a week in a tradition stretching back to the 12th century. With London just 30 minutes away by train and Heathrow Airport only 20 minutes away, students enjoy excellent connectivity alongside affordable living costs.
Proximity to London
Direct trains to London Marylebone take approximately 25-30 minutes, giving students easy access to the capital's cultural, social, and professional opportunities.
Chiltern Hills AONB
High Wycombe sits within the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering stunning countryside walks, cycling routes, and outdoor recreation.
Affordable Living
Compared to London, living costs in High Wycombe are significantly lower, making it an excellent choice for students seeking value without sacrificing connectivity.
Local Amenities
The town features a modern shopping centre, sports facilities including an artificial ski centre, diverse restaurants, and a lively nightlife scene popular with students.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where BNU Graduates Work
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
BNU provides comprehensive guidance on Tier 4 (Student) visa applications. Once admitted, you will receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) to proceed with your visa application.
Free airport collection is offered to all new international students. A dedicated orientation programme includes a campus tour, visa seminar, and town tour to help you settle in.
The Student Hub offers dedicated teams for financial guidance, academic support, careers advice, and 24/7 mental health support to ensure your wellbeing throughout your studies.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Buckinghamshire New University Rankings
Buckinghamshire New University Rankings
Buckinghamshire New University has demonstrated consistent improvement in national league tables and is recognised for strong student satisfaction, teaching quality, and graduate employability. The university has maintained a position in the top 80 of UK institutions in the Guardian University Guide for six consecutive years.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Mental Health Nursing | The Guardian | #4 in the UK |
| Business and Management | The Guardian | #18 in the UK |
| Student Satisfaction | Complete University Guide | Top 10 in the UK |
| Teaching Quality | WhatUni Student Choice Awards | #9 in the UK (2025) |
Features
BNU emphasizes practical, professional degrees aimed at real-world job readiness; its Students’ Union is highly ranked and active. Offers industry-immersive learning: Placement-Plus programs, employer partnerships, “live briefs”, and strong Careers Service support. Facilities include flight simulators, performance labs, nursing simulation suites, Human Performance Lab, and creative studios. Recognized for student satisfaction, teaching quality, graduate earnings, and research excellence.\n\n\n\n
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - August
Location
Queen Alexandra Rd, High Wycombe HP11 2JZ, United Kingdom
Map not found.
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
