Northumbria University
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
Northumbria University
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
Founded
1877 / University 1992
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
38,000+
Acceptance Rate
Approx. 65%
Discover Northumbria University: Overview & History
Discover Northumbria University: Overview & History
Northumbria University, officially the University of Northumbria at Newcastle, is a leading public research university situated in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne in North East England. With origins tracing back to the Rutherford College founded in 1877, the university gained full university status in 1992 when Newcastle Polytechnic was reconstituted under the Further and Higher Education Act. Today it serves over 38,000 students from more than 140 countries across campuses in Newcastle, London, and Amsterdam.
Named UK University of the Year 2022 by Times Higher Education, Northumbria has undergone a remarkable transformation into a research-intensive institution. It is ranked 23rd in the UK for research power according to the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, representing the largest percentage-point rise in market share of any UK university. The university also holds the distinction of being named Modern University of the Year 2025 by The Times and Sunday Times.
Northumbria offers more than 500 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across a wide range of disciplines including business, law, engineering, computing, design, health sciences, and the arts. Newcastle Business School is the only university in the UK to hold double AACSB accreditation for both business and accounting, placing it among an elite group of institutions worldwide.
Key Milestones
- 1877: Rutherford College of Technology established in Newcastle by John Hunter Rutherford, forming the earliest origins of the university.
- 1969: Three colleges — Rutherford College, College of Art and Industrial Design, and Municipal College of Commerce — merged to form Newcastle Polytechnic.
- 1992: Newcastle Polytechnic gained full university status and was reconstituted as the University of Northumbria at Newcastle.
- 2022: Named UK University of the Year by Times Higher Education in recognition of its transformation into a research-intensive institution.
Academic Structure & Faculties
Academic Structure & Faculties
Northumbria University is organised into three main faculties that oversee teaching and research across a comprehensive range of disciplines. This structure fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and supports practical, industry-aligned education across all 30 of the UK's most popular subject areas.
Faculty of Society and Culture
Encompasses creative, business, legal, and social disciplines, serving a large proportion of the student body. Key schools include the School of Design, Arts and Creative Industries, the School of Business (formerly Newcastle Business School), the School of Law, and the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
- BA (Hons) Business Management
- LLB (Hons) Law
- BA (Hons) Fine Art
Faculty of Science and Environment
Covers engineering, computing, mathematics, physics, geography, environmental sciences, architecture, and the built environment. The faculty is home to cutting-edge research in areas such as renewable energy, smart cities, and computer science.
- BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science
- BSc (Hons) Architecture
Faculty of Health and Wellbeing
Encompasses nursing, midwifery, health sciences, psychology, sport and exercise sciences, social work, and allied health professions. Strong ties with the NHS enhance practical placements and research in mental health, rehabilitation, and public health.
- BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult)
- BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science
- BSc (Hons) Psychology
Newcastle Business School
The only business school in the UK to hold double AACSB accreditation for both business and accounting, placing it among an elite group of approximately 190 institutions worldwide. It also holds more EPAS accreditations for undergraduate programmes than any other UK university.
- MBA Master of Business Administration
- MSc Business with International Management
- BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance
Northumbria Law School
One of the largest law schools in the UK, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong focus on practical legal skills and professional accreditation. The school is housed in the award-winning City Campus East development.
- LLB (Hons) Law with Business
- LLM International Commercial Law
- Bar Professional Training Course
School of Design, Arts and Creative Industries
Covers media, performance, visual arts, fashion, and graphic design. The school benefits from purpose-built studios and workshops, and has produced notable alumni in design and the creative industries, including Sir Jonathan Ive, former Chief Design Officer at Apple.
- BA (Hons) Graphic Design
- BA (Hons) Fashion
- MA Design
Admission Requirements for Northumbria University
Admission Requirements for Northumbria University
Undergraduate Admission
- Application MethodApply via UCAS or the Northumbria University application portal
- Academic RequirementCompletion of secondary education equivalent to UK A-Levels; specific grades vary by programme
- English Language (IELTS)Minimum overall score of 6.0 (with no component below 5.5 for most programmes)
- English Language (TOEFL)Minimum total score of 89
- Supporting DocumentsPersonal statement, academic reference, official transcripts, and portfolio (for some creative courses)
Postgraduate Admission
- Application MethodApply directly through the Northumbria University online application portal
- Academic RequirementA recognised bachelor's degree; minimum 2:1 or 2:2 depending on the programme (approx. 55-65%)
- English Language (IELTS)Minimum overall score of 6.5 (with no component below 6.0 for most programmes)
- ReferencesAt least one academic or professional reference required
- Supporting DocumentsCV/resume, personal statement, official transcripts, and research proposal (for research degrees)
Deadline for undergraduate applications to be given equal consideration through UCAS for most programmes.
Final date for undergraduate applications through UCAS. Late applications may be considered if places remain.
Recommended deadline for international students applying for September entry to allow time for visa processing.
Most postgraduate programmes accept applications on a rolling basis. Early application is recommended as popular courses fill quickly.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships at Northumbria University
Tuition Fees & Scholarships at Northumbria University
Northumbria University offers competitive tuition fees for both UK and international students. Fees vary by programme and level of study. The figures below represent typical annual fees; please confirm exact amounts with the university for your specific course.
| Fee Category | UK Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | GBP 9,535 | GBP 19,350 - 20,950 |
| Postgraduate Taught (Masters) | GBP 9,000 - 12,000 | GBP 19,850 - 21,500 |
| MBA Programme | Contact university for details | GBP 20,000 - 22,000 |
| Estimated Living Costs | GBP 10,000 - 12,660 | GBP 10,000 - 12,660 |
| Total | GBP 19,535 - 21,535 (approx. total UG with living) | GBP 29,350 - 33,610 (approx. total UG with living) |
Northumbria International Scholarship
A tuition fee discount automatically awarded to eligible self-funded international students starting undergraduate or postgraduate taught programmes. Undergraduate students receive GBP 3,000 in year one and GBP 2,000 in subsequent years.
- Value (UG Year 1): GBP 3,000 tuition fee discount
- Value (PGT): GBP 3,000 tuition fee discount
- Eligibility: Self-funded international students with an unconditional or conditional offer
Postgraduate International Scholarship for South Asian Applicants
A GBP 3,000 tuition fee discount for eligible self-funded postgraduate students from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. This scholarship supports affordability for students from the South Asian region.
- Value: GBP 3,000 tuition fee discount
- Eligible Countries: Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
- Application: Automatically assessed upon course application; no separate application required
Campus & Facilities at Northumbria University
Campus & Facilities at Northumbria University
Northumbria University is primarily based across two major campuses in Newcastle upon Tyne, with additional campuses in London and Amsterdam. The university has invested over GBP 250 million in modern facilities, creating an outstanding environment for learning, research, and student life.
Award-winning development housing the Schools of Law, Design, and Newcastle Business School, featuring collaborative learning spaces and high-tech laboratories.
A GBP 30 million sports centre offering a 25-metre swimming pool, climbing wall, extensive gym, sports halls, and fitness classes for students, staff, and the public.
The main University Library at City Campus West provides extensive study spaces, digital resources, and 24-hour access during key periods to support student learning.
Housing & Dining
Student Accommodation
Northumbria guarantees accommodation for all first-year students once an offer has been accepted. Over 5,000 rooms are available in self-catered or catered options, all within a few minutes' walk of the main campus buildings.
- Guaranteed housing for all first-year students
- Self-catered and catered options available
- Accommodation Services team available year-round for support and advice
Dining & Campus Life
The campus features a variety of cafes, restaurants, and food outlets across both City Campus East and West. The Students' Union building provides social spaces, bars, and entertainment venues for a vibrant campus experience.
- Multiple cafes and food outlets across campus
- Students' Union venues including Habita and Domain
- Free shuttle bus service between City Campus and Coach Lane Campus
Student Life at Northumbria University
Student Life at Northumbria University
Northumbria offers a vibrant and diverse student experience in one of the UK's most popular student cities. With over 100 student-led societies, competitive sports teams, and a nationally recognised Students' Union, there is something for every interest and passion.
Newcastle upon Tyne: A Vibrant Student City
Newcastle upon Tyne: A Vibrant Student City
Life in Newcastle upon Tyne
Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant, culturally rich city in North East England with a population of around 300,000. Consistently ranked among the best student cities in the UK, Newcastle offers an affordable cost of living significantly lower than London, a thriving arts and nightlife scene, and excellent transport links including an international airport with direct flights to major European hubs.
Affordable Living
Newcastle is significantly more affordable than London, with rent approximately 63% lower and overall living costs around 24% cheaper, making it an excellent choice for students on a budget.
Culture & Entertainment
The city boasts world-class cultural venues including the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Sage Gateshead music centre, Theatre Royal, and a thriving nightlife along the Quayside.
Transport Links
Newcastle is less than three hours from London by train and just over an hour from Edinburgh. Newcastle International Airport offers direct flights to Dubai, the US, and all major European destinations.
Natural Beauty
The city sits close to the stunning Northumberland coastline, the Lake District, and Hadrian's Wall World Heritage Site, offering easy access to outdoor activities and historic landmarks.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Top Employers of Northumbria Graduates
Practical Information for Prospective Students
Practical Information for Prospective Students
For International Students
The Welfare, Immigration and Funding team provides dedicated support for international students with visa applications, CAS letters, and immigration advice throughout your studies.
Student Services offers a complimentary meet and greet service with pickups from Newcastle International Airport and transportation directly to the university or accommodation.
International students receive a comprehensive orientation upon arrival and have free access to dedicated Student Advisors and the Student Services department year-round.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Northumbria University: Worldwide Rankings
Northumbria University: Worldwide Rankings
Northumbria University has demonstrated a strong upward trajectory in major global and national rankings, reflecting its growing research intensity, teaching quality, and international reputation. The university is consistently recognised among the top modern universities in the UK.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Forensic Science | Complete University Guide | Top 5 in the UK |
| Art and Design | Complete University Guide | Top 20 in the UK |
| Nursing and Midwifery | Complete University Guide | Top 30 in the UK |
| Research Power | REF 2021 | #23 in the UK |
Features
Strong emphasis on employability, with high graduate employment rates and industry partnerships.
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
Ellison Pl, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, United Kingdom
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