Royal Agricultural University
Gloucestershire, United Kingdom
Royal Agricultural University
Cirencester, United Kingdom
Founded
1845
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
1,100+
International Reach
45+ Countries
Discover the Royal Agricultural University
Discover the Royal Agricultural University
The Royal Agricultural University (RAU), formerly the Royal Agricultural College, is a specialist public university located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, England. Established in 1845, it holds the distinction of being the first agricultural college in the English-speaking world, with a Royal Charter granted by Queen Victoria in its founding year.
Today the RAU offers over 30 land-based undergraduate and postgraduate programmes through four schools: the School of Agriculture, the School of Business and Entrepreneurship, the School of Equine, and the School of Real Estate and Land Management. Welcoming students from more than 45 countries, it fosters a globally inclusive learning environment focused on agriculture, food, environment, and rural enterprise.
Set on a picturesque 25-acre campus within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the RAU combines historic charm with modern facilities. The university was awarded full university status in 2013 by the Privy Council and continues to be led by its motto Arvorum Cultus Pecorumque — Caring for the Fields and the Beasts.
Key Milestones
- 1845: Founded as the Royal Agricultural College with a Royal Charter from Queen Victoria; the first 25 students were admitted in September.
- 1982: King Charles III (then Prince of Wales) became President of the institution, continuing its long tradition of royal patronage.
- 2013: Awarded full university status by the Privy Council and renamed from Royal Agricultural College to Royal Agricultural University.
- 2021: Expanded with the creation of a Cultural Heritage Institute based in Swindon, and achieved strong results in the Research Excellence Framework.
Academic Structure and Schools
Academic Structure and Schools
The RAU delivers specialist education through four core schools, each offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes. With a focus on practical, industry-relevant learning, the university prepares students for careers across the land-based, food, equine, and real estate sectors.
School of Agriculture
The School of Agriculture offers programmes combining science, technology, and business to prepare students for modern farming and food production. Students benefit from access to university farms and over 100 partner agricultural businesses.
- BSc (Hons) Agriculture
- BSc (Hons) Farm Management
- MSc Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security
School of Business and Entrepreneurship
This school focuses on business management with specialist pathways in food, agribusiness, and rural enterprise. The RAU's enterprise programme is recognised as a Centre of Excellence by the Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs.
- BSc (Hons) Business Management
- BSc (Hons) Agri-Food Business Management
- MBA
School of Equine
The School of Equine delivers programmes in equine science, management, and applied horse care, supported by on-campus equine facilities and partner livery operations at Fossehill Farm.
- BSc (Hons) Applied Equine Science and Business
- BSc (Hons) Bloodstock and Performance Horse Management
- MSc Equine Science
School of Real Estate and Land Management
Accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), this school prepares students for careers in property, valuation, and rural estate management. It ranks in the top 10 nationally for Land and Property Management.
- BSc (Hons) Real Estate
- BSc (Hons) Rural Land Management
- MSc Real Estate
Environment and Sustainability Programmes
The RAU offers interdisciplinary programmes exploring environmental humanities, conservation, food systems, and sustainability, preparing graduates to address global challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss.
- BSc (Hons) Environment and Sustainability
- BA (Hons) Environment and Sustainability
- MSc Environmental Management
Cultural Heritage Institute
Established in 2021 and based in Swindon, the Cultural Heritage Institute offers programmes in heritage, archaeology, and cultural conservation, expanding the RAU's academic scope beyond traditional land-based disciplines.
- BA (Hons) Cultural Heritage and Archaeology
- MSc Cultural Heritage
- Research Degrees in Heritage Studies
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- UCAS Points96–104 UCAS points minimum (varies by course)
- IELTS (International)Minimum 6.0 overall with no sub-score below 5.0
- Application MethodVia UCAS or direct application through the RAU website
- Academic TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from previous education required
- Personal StatementA personal statement demonstrating interest in land-based or related studies
Postgraduate Admission
- Undergraduate DegreeA relevant bachelor's degree (2:2 or above for most programmes)
- IELTS (International)Minimum 6.5 overall
- TOEFL (International)Minimum score of 88
- ReferencesAcademic and/or professional references required
- Application MethodDirect application via the RAU website
Submit your UCAS application by this date to be considered equally with all other applicants.
Last date for undergraduate applications through UCAS for most courses with available places.
Postgraduate applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Early application is recommended to secure a place.
International students must pay the 50% tuition fee deposit by this date upon accepting an offer.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
The Royal Agricultural University offers competitive tuition fees for both UK and international students. A range of scholarships and bursaries are available to help fund your studies. Contact the university directly for the most current fee schedule.
| Fee Category | UK Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 9,535 | GBP 16,950 |
| Postgraduate Taught (per year) | GBP 11,500 – 12,000 | GBP 22,000 |
| Placement Year Fee | Contact university | GBP 3,060 |
| On-Campus Accommodation (approx.) | GBP 5,000 – 7,500 | GBP 5,000 – 7,500 |
| Total | Contact university for total programme costs | Contact university for total programme costs |
Next Generation Scholarship
A generous scholarship supporting eligible undergraduate students with tuition fee funding and additional costs for trips and activities over the course of their degree.
- Value: GBP 6,000 per year (up to 3 years) plus trips and activities
- Eligibility: Undergraduate students meeting specific criteria
- Application: Via the RAU website during the admissions cycle
Sir Emrys Jones Scholarship
Named after the former principal, this scholarship supports students with a connection to Wales, honouring Sir Emrys Jones's legacy at the institution.
- Value: GBP 1,500 per year (up to 3 years)
- Eligibility: Applicants with a connection to Wales
- Awarded By: Sir Emrys Jones Memorial Trust
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The RAU's 25-acre campus is set on the outskirts of Cirencester within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The site features a blend of historic Victorian Gothic architecture and modern teaching facilities, alongside extensive green spaces, farms, and an equine centre.
The iconic Victorian Gothic main building, designed in 1845, remains the centrepiece of the RAU campus.
State-of-the-art laboratories and lecture halls support practical, hands-on learning across all programmes.
The RAU operates farms totalling approximately 491 hectares, providing real-world agricultural training.
Housing and Dining
Accommodation
The RAU provides on-campus housing in 11 residence halls offering both catered and self-catered options. Free Wi-Fi is available in all halls, and accessible rooms are provided for students with disabilities.
- 11 on-site residence halls
- Catered and self-catered options
- Free Wi-Fi and accessible rooms available
Dining and Social Spaces
The campus restaurant serves a selection of dishes and beverages throughout the day. Social areas include the student lounge and the Tithe Barn bar, providing relaxed spaces for students to gather.
- Main campus restaurant
- Tithe Barn bar and social lounge
- Self-catered kitchen facilities in halls
Student Life at the RAU
Student Life at the RAU
The RAU offers a close-knit, vibrant student community where you can enjoy a wide range of clubs, societies, and social events. With a small student body, you will benefit from a personalised experience and strong connections with fellow students and staff.
Location: Cirencester and the Cotswolds
Location: Cirencester and the Cotswolds
Life in Cirencester
Cirencester is the largest town in the Cotswold District, located approximately 80 miles west-northwest of London. Known as the Capital of the Cotswolds, it is a bustling market town with pretty streets, medieval buildings, art galleries, museums, shops, restaurants, and bars. Bath, Bristol, Oxford, and Cheltenham are all within an hour, and London is less than 90 minutes by direct train.
Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
The RAU campus sits within one of England's most scenic landscapes, offering stunning countryside, walking trails, and a tranquil study environment.
Rich Roman Heritage
Cirencester was once the second-largest Roman town in Britain. The Corinium Museum houses an extensive collection of Roman artefacts and mosaics.
Excellent Transport Links
Nearby railway stations and coach services connect Cirencester to London, Bristol, Bath, and Oxford, making travel across the UK convenient.
Vibrant Local Culture
Weekly markets, independent shops, festivals, and a thriving food scene make Cirencester a lively and welcoming place for students to live and explore.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Notable Employers of RAU Graduates
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
The RAU provides guidance on Student Visa applications and immigration requirements. International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term-time.
A dedicated international orientation programme helps new students settle into life at the RAU and in the UK, covering practical matters such as banking, healthcare, and campus resources.
Comprehensive support is available including academic advising, personal tutors, mental health and wellbeing services, disability support, and a peer-to-peer mentoring programme.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
As a small specialist institution, the RAU is not typically ranked in major global university league tables. However, it performs strongly in subject-specific and national rankings, particularly in agriculture, land management, and student experience.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture and Forestry | QS World Rankings | #9 UK |
| Land and Property Management | Complete University Guide | Top 10 UK |
| Business and Management | Times Good University Guide | #13 UK |
| Student Experience | Sunday Times Good University Guide | Top 10 UK |
Features
- Practical, land‑based learning with working farms and rural skills centre.
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
Stroud Road,\nCirencester,\nGloucestershire, GL7 6JS,\nUnited Kingdom.
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
