Harper Adams University
United Kingdom
Harper Adams University
Newport, Shropshire, United Kingdom
Founded
1901
Institution Type
Public Specialist University
Total Students
5,360
Graduate Employment
97.5%
Discover Harper Adams University: A Leading Specialist Institution
Discover Harper Adams University: A Leading Specialist Institution
Harper Adams University is a land-based public university located in Edgmond, Shropshire, in the heart of the English countryside. Founded in 1901 through the bequest of wealthy gentleman farmer Thomas Harper Adams, the institution has grown from a small agricultural college with just six students into a nationally recognised specialist university.
The university specialises in agriculture, food production, animal health, engineering, land management, and sustainability. Recognised as the inaugural Specialist University of the Year by The Times and Sunday Times in 2024 and rated TEF Gold for teaching excellence, Harper Adams is committed to tackling global challenges in food security and sustainable technologies.
Set on a 494-hectare working farm estate, Harper Adams offers a unique learning environment where students gain hands-on experience from day one. With students and staff from over 30 countries, the university provides a close-knit, internationally diverse community focused on practical, industry-relevant education.
Key Milestones
- 1901: Harper Adams Agricultural College opens with its first six students, funded by the private bequest of Thomas Harper Adams.
- 1981: Degree courses are introduced for the first time, making Harper Adams one of the first institutions to offer BSc sandwich courses.
- 2012: Full university title is conferred, making Harper Adams the first and only university in Shropshire.
- 2024: Named the inaugural Specialist University of the Year by The Times and Sunday Times, with TEF Gold rating for teaching excellence.
Academic Structure and Programmes
Academic Structure and Programmes
Harper Adams University offers over 50 foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate degree programmes across specialist departments. Every undergraduate course includes a full-year work placement, ensuring graduates leave with real industry experience alongside their academic qualification.
Agriculture and Crop Management
Covers all aspects of modern agriculture from crop science and soil management to precision farming and sustainable production systems, supported by the university's working commercial farm.
- BSc (Hons) Agriculture
- BSc (Hons) Agri-Food Marketing with Business Studies
- MSc Agricultural Sciences and Production Systems
Animal Sciences and Veterinary Health
Offers programmes in animal science, veterinary nursing, veterinary physiotherapy, and applied zoology. The Harper and Keele Veterinary School, a joint venture with Keele University, provides a full veterinary medicine degree.
- BSc (Hons) Animal Health and Welfare
- BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing
- BSc (Hons) Applied Zoology
Engineering
Focuses on agricultural engineering, off-highway vehicle design, mechanical engineering, and robotics. The department leads innovative projects such as the Hands Free Farm autonomous agriculture research programme.
- BEng (Hons) Agricultural Engineering
- BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
- MSc Agricultural Engineering (Mobile Machinery)
Food Science and Innovation
Delivers programmes in food technology, food business innovation, and public health nutrition. The Regional Food Academy provides industry-standard facilities for teaching and research in food production and quality.
- BSc (Hons) Food Technology and Product Development
- BSc (Hons) Food Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- BSc (Hons) Food and Public Health Nutrition
Land, Property and Environmental Management
Covers countryside management, rural enterprise, real estate, geography, and environmental management. Programmes prepare students for careers in land-based industries, conservation, and rural surveying.
- BSc (Hons) Rural Enterprise and Land Management
- BSc (Hons) Geography and Environmental Management
- BSc (Hons) Countryside Management
Business, Digital and Data Sciences
Includes business management, international agri-business, data science, and digital business programmes. The new Telford campus site hosts digitally-focused courses in robotics and data science.
- BSc (Hons) Business Management with Marketing
- MSc International Agri-Business and Food Chain Management
- BSc (Hons) Data Science
Admission Requirements for Harper Adams University
Admission Requirements for Harper Adams University
Undergraduate Admission
- Application MethodApply through UCAS (institution code H12). Direct applications are not accepted for undergraduate programmes.
- Typical Entry RequirementsMinimum 2 A-level passes; UCAS tariff varies by course. BTEC Extended Diplomas and other Level 3 qualifications also accepted.
- GCSE RequirementsMinimum 4-5 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English Language, Maths, and a Science.
- English Language (International)IELTS 6.0 overall (or equivalent TOEFL/PTE score). Specific requirements may vary by programme.
- Work ExperienceRequired for some courses such as Agriculture, Veterinary Nursing, and Veterinary Physiotherapy.
Postgraduate Admission
- Application MethodApply directly to the university through the Harper Adams website or through approved partners.
- Academic RequirementsA relevant undergraduate degree, typically at 2:2 or above. Requirements vary by programme.
- English Language (International)IELTS 6.0 overall or TOEFL 80 minimum. Some programmes may require higher scores.
- Supporting DocumentsAcademic transcripts, personal statement, references, and proof of English language proficiency.
- Visa RequirementsInternational students requiring visa sponsorship must pay a deposit and provide evidence of financial sponsorship before receiving a CAS.
Last Wednesday in January for equal consideration of all on-time undergraduate applications through UCAS.
Late applications may be accepted if places are still available, but are not guaranteed equal consideration.
Applications accepted on a rolling basis. Early application is recommended, especially for international students requiring visa sponsorship.
PhD and MPhil applications are accepted throughout the year, subject to supervisor availability and funding.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Harper Adams University offers competitive tuition fees with generous scholarship opportunities for both UK and international students. All amounts shown are approximate annual fees and are subject to change; please verify current fees on the university website.
| Fee Category | UK / Home Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 9,250 - GBP 9,535 | GBP 16,500 - GBP 19,000 |
| Postgraduate Taught (per year) | GBP 7,875 - GBP 11,440 | GBP 13,250 - GBP 19,750 |
| On-Campus Accommodation (per year) | GBP 4,500 - GBP 7,000 | GBP 4,500 - GBP 7,000 |
| Estimated Living Costs (per year) | GBP 9,000 - GBP 12,000 | GBP 9,000 - GBP 12,000 |
| Total | GBP 30,625 - GBP 39,975 | GBP 43,250 - GBP 57,750 |
Vice-Chancellor's International Award
Automatic tuition fee reductions for eligible international students enrolling in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at Harper Adams University.
- UG Award: GBP 3,000 tuition fee reduction
- PG Award: GBP 5,000 tuition fee reduction
- Early Payment Discount: 5% discount for full payment in advance of arrival
Harper Adams Development Trust Scholarships
The university distributes approximately GBP 500,000 in scholarship funding per year through its development trust, working with industry and alumni partners.
- Basis: Academic merit, extracurricular achievement, and personal circumstances
- Example Award: Plastic Energy Scholarship: GBP 10,000 for MRes Agroecology
- Alumni Award: Harper Adams Club PG Scholarship: up to GBP 2,000
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
Harper Adams University's main campus is set on a stunning 494-hectare estate in the Shropshire countryside, combining historic charm with cutting-edge facilities. A new secondary campus in Telford offers modern teaching spaces for digitally-focused courses.
The central learning and living zone surrounded by the Harper Adams Future Farm and woodland, providing a living laboratory for hands-on study.
State-of-the-art facilities for engineering research and teaching, including robotics labs, 3D printing, and the Hands Free Farm project.
An award-winning facility officially opened by The Princess Royal, supporting food science teaching, research, and industry collaboration.
Housing and Dining
Accommodation
First-year and international students are guaranteed on-campus accommodation across 15 halls of residence, all within walking distance of university facilities.
- Catered and self-catered options with en-suite or shared bathrooms
- Free parking, Wi-Fi, regular cleaning, and 24/7 security with CCTV
- 40- or 42-week contracts available for most halls
Dining
The campus offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and dietary requirements, from full catered meal plans to independent cafes.
- Graze Cafe, Kaldi Cafe, and Pam's Pantry for casual dining
- The Feed Store and Conference Dining Hall for main meals
- Catered halls include breakfast and dinner Monday to Friday
Student Life at Harper Adams
Student Life at Harper Adams
Despite its rural setting, Harper Adams offers a vibrant student life with a close-knit community atmosphere. The Students' Union organises a packed calendar of social events, themed balls, and activities throughout the academic year.
Location: Shropshire, England
Location: Shropshire, England
Newport and Shropshire
Harper Adams is located near the market town of Newport in Shropshire, central England. While the setting is rural and tranquil, students enjoy easy access to larger towns like Telford and Shrewsbury, and cities such as Birmingham and Manchester are within one hour's travel.
Ironbridge Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site
A short drive from campus, this historic site is the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and offers museums, scenic walks, and cultural attractions.
Birmingham City Centre
Just one hour away by train or car, Birmingham offers world-class shopping, dining, nightlife, cultural venues, and Birmingham International Airport.
Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting, the Shropshire Hills provide stunning landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Telford and Shrewsbury
Nearby towns offering shopping centres, restaurants, entertainment, and historic attractions. A subsidised shuttle bus connects the campus to Newport and Telford.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employers of Harper Adams Graduates
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
Dedicated visa compliance office provides guidance on Student Route visa applications, CAS issuance, and UKVI requirements throughout your studies.
English language courses, academic writing workshops, orientation programmes, and a buddy system help international students adapt to university life.
All first-year international students are guaranteed on-campus accommodation, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment from the moment of arrival.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Harper Adams University Rankings
Harper Adams University Rankings
Harper Adams University consistently performs well in national league tables and has recently achieved global recognition in its specialist subject areas. The university is rated TEF Gold for teaching excellence and has been named the inaugural Specialist University of the Year by The Times and Sunday Times.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture and Forestry | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 100 globally |
| Agriculture and Forestry | Complete University Guide - By Subject | #4 in the UK |
| Business and Management Studies | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #99 |
| Business Administration | GRAS ShanghaiRanking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects | #301 |
Features
\tSpecialist in agri-food and rural studies, hands-on learning, strong placement links, TEF Gold, modern university awards
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.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - June
Location
Edgmond\nNewport\nShropshire\nTF10 8NB\nUnited Kingdom
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