London South Bank University
London, United Kingdom
London South Bank University
London, United Kingdom
Founded
1892
Institution Type
Public
Total Students
16,800+
International Students
130+ Countries
Discover London South Bank University (LSBU)
Discover London South Bank University (LSBU)
London South Bank University (LSBU) is a public university located in Elephant and Castle in the London Borough of Southwark, near the South Bank of the River Thames. Founded in 1892 as the Borough Polytechnic Institute, it is one of the oldest and largest universities in London, with a strong reputation for career-focused, practical education.
LSBU places a strong emphasis on employability and industry connections, having been named University of the Year for Graduate Employment by The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide in both 2018 and 2019. The university holds a Silver rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) and 68% of its research submissions were rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in REF 2021.
Today, LSBU operates across three campuses in Southwark, Croydon and Havering, offering over 400 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The university is organised into three colleges and serves a diverse community of students from more than 130 countries, supported by partnerships with over 1,000 employers.
Key Milestones
- 1892: Founded as the Borough Polytechnic Institute in Southwark, South London.
- 1992: Granted full university status under the Further and Higher Education Act, becoming South Bank University.
- 2003: Renamed to London South Bank University (LSBU) and opened new centres including the School of Health and Social Care.
- 2016: Named Entrepreneurial University of the Year at the Times Higher Education Awards.
Academic Structure and Colleges
Academic Structure and Colleges
Since January 2025, LSBU has operated through a streamlined academic structure of three specialised colleges, each containing constituent schools. This reorganisation fosters interdisciplinary collaboration across technology, health, and social sciences, and supports enhanced teaching and research outcomes.
College of Technology and Environment
This college brings together expertise in the built environment, engineering, computing and digital technologies, led by Executive Dean Professor Chris Harty. It houses some of LSBU's most established programmes with strong professional accreditations.
- Civil, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering
- Architecture, Urban and Environmental Planning
- Computer Science, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
College of Health and Life Sciences
Led by Dr Julia Warrener, this college is one of the UK's leading providers of nursing, midwifery, and allied health education. It offers simulation facilities and strong NHS collaborations ensuring graduates are prepared for the healthcare sector.
- Nursing and Midwifery
- Biomedical Sciences and Forensic Science
- Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Radiography
College of Society and Professions
Led by Professor Alex Kendall, this college encompasses business, law, education, and the creative arts. It is committed to widening access to professional practice and equipping future leaders with skills for social transformation.
- Business, Accounting and Marketing
- Law, Criminology and Sociology
- Film, Journalism and Digital Design
School of Architecture and Planning
Part of the College of Technology and Environment, this school is known for its sustainable design and urban planning programmes. It holds accreditation from RIBA and attracts students interested in London's rich architectural heritage.
- Architecture (BA and MArch)
- Town Planning and Urban Design
- Architectural Technology
School of Construction, Property and Surveying
This school offers professionally accredited programmes in construction management, quantity surveying and real estate. It has a long history dating back to LSBU's origins as one of Europe's largest built environment faculties.
- Construction Management
- Quantity Surveying and Building Surveying
- Real Estate and Commercial Management
LSBU Business School
Part of the College of Society and Professions, the Business School offers programmes accredited by professional bodies such as ACCA. It combines academic rigour with practical industry engagement to prepare graduates for the global marketplace.
- International Business Management
- Accounting and Finance
- Marketing and Entrepreneurship
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admissions
- Application MethodApply through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)
- Academic RequirementsA-levels, International Baccalaureate, or equivalent international qualifications
- English Language (IELTS)Minimum overall score of 6.0 (with no component below 5.5)
- English Language (TOEFL)Minimum score of 80
- Additional RequirementsSome courses may require portfolios, interviews, or relevant work experience
Postgraduate Admissions
- Application MethodApply directly through the LSBU Apply Portal
- Academic RequirementsHonours degree (minimum 2:2 or equivalent) in a relevant field
- English Language (IELTS)Minimum overall score of 6.5 (some programmes require 7.0)
- ReferencesTypically two academic or professional references required
- Additional RequirementsResearch proposals for doctoral programmes; professional experience for some MBAs
Deadline for undergraduate applications to be considered equally by all universities through UCAS.
Final deadline for undergraduate applications through UCAS for the upcoming academic year.
Recommended deadline for postgraduate programme applications for international students.
Many postgraduate courses accept applications on a rolling basis until places are filled. Early application is strongly recommended.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
LSBU offers competitive tuition fees compared to many other London-based universities, making it an attractive option for international students seeking quality education in the UK capital. Fees vary by programme and level of study.
| Fee Category | Home Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | GBP 9,535 | GBP 14,900 - GBP 16,900 |
| Postgraduate Taught | GBP 10,500+ | GBP 15,500 - GBP 17,000 |
| Accommodation (Annual Est.) | GBP 6,000 - GBP 9,000 | GBP 6,000 - GBP 9,000 |
| Living Expenses (Annual Est.) | GBP 12,000 - GBP 15,000 | GBP 12,000 - GBP 15,000 |
| Total | GBP 38,035 - GBP 43,535 | GBP 48,400 - GBP 56,900 |
International Merit Scholarship
Available to international students with outstanding academic profiles at both undergraduate and postgraduate taught levels, providing a fee reduction on the first year's tuition.
- Award Value: Up to GBP 4,000 fee reduction
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic record equivalent to AAB at A-level or above
- Level: Undergraduate and Postgraduate Taught
Vice Chancellor's International Merit Award
Recognises outstanding academic achievement of international students obtaining grades equivalent to AAB and above at UK A-level, providing a recurring annual tuition fee discount.
- Award Value: GBP 2,000 per academic year
- Eligibility: Grades equivalent to AAB+ at A-level (approx. 75%+ in international qualifications)
- Additional Benefits: Alumni discount available for LSBU graduates progressing to postgraduate study
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
LSBU's main campus is located in Southwark, Zone 1 of central London, with all primary teaching buildings clustered within a compact area. The university has invested over GBP 65 million in state-of-the-art facilities, including the award-winning LSBU Hub opened in 2022.
The centrepiece of the Southwark campus, featuring a high-tech library, carbon-neutral design, and collaborative social spaces opened in 2022.
Designed by Grimshaw Architects, K2 houses the School of Health and Social Care, nursing skills laboratories, and the Centre for Efficient and Renewable Energy in Buildings.
LSBU's dedicated media centre provides professional-standard film, television, and audio production facilities for arts and creative industries students.
Housing and Dining
Student Accommodation
LSBU offers convenient on-campus accommodation options ranked fifth nationally and the best in London by the Whatuni Student Rankings. Halls are located close to the Southwark campus with 24-hour security.
- David Bomberg House and other halls of residence
- All halls include free Wi-Fi, kitchen and dining facilities
- 24-hour security and social areas in all residences
Dining and Campus Services
The campus offers multiple dining options, cafes, and a Student Centre with social spaces. Nearby Elephant and Castle and Borough Market provide a wide range of affordable food choices.
- On-campus cafes and the Grads Cafe
- Student Centre with social and study spaces
- Close proximity to Borough Market and Southwark eateries
Student Life at LSBU
Student Life at LSBU
LSBU offers a vibrant student experience in the heart of London, supported by an active Students' Union with around 700 annually elected representatives. The university regularly organises welcome fairs, career expos, cultural festivals, and networking events throughout the academic year.
London: A Global Capital for Students
London: A Global Capital for Students
Living and Studying in London
London is one of the most exciting and diverse cities in the world, offering unparalleled access to culture, industry, and career opportunities. LSBU's central location in Southwark places students within walking distance of landmarks like the Tate Modern, the London Eye, and the Southbank Centre, while excellent transport links connect you to every corner of the capital.
Central London Location
The Southwark campus is in Zone 1, a one-minute walk from the London Underground. Waterloo and London Bridge stations are the nearest major transport hubs.
Cultural Landmarks
Within walking distance of the Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market, the British Film Institute, and the Southbank Centre arts complex.
Industry and Career Access
London's status as a global financial, creative, and healthcare hub provides students with internship, placement, and networking opportunities across every major industry sector.
Transport Connectivity
Excellent bus routes, Underground lines, and rail connections make the entire city accessible. London's six international airports connect students to destinations worldwide.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where LSBU Graduates Work
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
LSBU provides comprehensive visa guidance, pre-arrival advice, and CAS letter issuance. International students must pay a 50% tuition fee deposit before their CAS number is issued for Student Visa applications.
The university offers an airport collection service from Heathrow Airport for international students, along with a dedicated international orientation programme at the start of each term.
LSBU maintains a continuous Health Service centre for all students. Additional support includes mental health services, counselling, and a dedicated wellbeing team to help students adjust to life in London.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
London South Bank University is recognised in major global university rankings, reflecting its growing reputation for applied research, teaching quality, and graduate employability. The university continues to strengthen its position among modern universities in the UK.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical and Health | Times Higher Education | #301-400 |
| Engineering | Times Higher Education | #801+ |
| Psychology | Times Higher Education | #301-400 |
| Social Work | The Guardian / CUG | #1 in UK |
Features
London South Bank University (LSBU) is a public, urban university in Southwark, London, founded in 1892 and achieving university status in 1992. It serves over 30,000 students, with a significant international cohort (~38%), offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and foundation preparatory programs. Its academic staff number about 1,700, supporting teaching, research, and strong industry partnerships. LSBU is known for good graduate outcomes, modern facilities, and its inclusion in international rankings such as Times Higher Education. It also has foundation-year routes for students who need additional support before degree study.
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
103 Borough Rd, London SE1 0AA, United Kingdom
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