Staffordshire University
Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom
University of Staffordshire
Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom
Founded
1914
Institution Type
Public
Total Students
15,000+
TEF Rating
Gold
University of Staffordshire: Overview & History
University of Staffordshire: Overview & History
The University of Staffordshire is a public university located in Stoke-on-Trent, England, with additional campuses in Stafford, Shrewsbury, and London. Founded in 1914 as the Central School of Science and Technology, the institution has evolved over more than a century into a modern, career-focused university known for its innovative approach to teaching and strong industry connections.
The university gained its current status in 1992, having previously operated as North Staffordshire Polytechnic (formed in 1970) and later Staffordshire Polytechnic (from 1988). In September 2024, the institution was rebranded as the University of Staffordshire. It is rated Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework and is internationally recognised for its strength in games education, ranked 1st in the UK by the Rookies Global School Rankings.
With a digitally led approach and a focus on graduate employability, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across computing, business, engineering, law, healthcare, arts, and design. The university welcomes students from more than 70 countries and maintains extensive partnerships with academic institutions and industry partners worldwide.
Key Milestones
- 1914: Cadman Building officially opened as the Central School of Science and Technology in Stoke-on-Trent.
- 1970: North Staffordshire Polytechnic formed through the merger of three local colleges.
- 1992: Granted university status and became Staffordshire University under the Further and Higher Education Act.
- 2024: Rebranded as the University of Staffordshire, reflecting its evolving identity and ambitions.
Academic Structure & Programmes
Academic Structure & Programmes
The University of Staffordshire offers a diverse portfolio of career-focused programmes across six key academic areas. With strong industry links and an emphasis on practical learning, the university prepares students for employment through work placements, live projects, and employer collaboration.
School of Digital, Technologies and Arts
Home to the UK's largest games institute and pioneering courses in computing, esports, and digital technologies. The school is internationally recognised for games education and creative digital programmes.
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science
- BA (Hons) Computer Games Design
- BSc (Hons) Esports
Staffordshire Business School
One of the university's most renowned departments, offering programmes in business management, accounting, marketing, and international business with strong employer engagement.
- BA (Hons) Business Management
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance
School of Health, Science and Wellbeing
Offers programmes in nursing, midwifery, paramedic science, and biomedical science. The Centre for Health Innovation in Stafford provides clinical simulation suites and placement opportunities with NHS partners.
- BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult)
- BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science
- BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
School of Justice, Security and Sustainability
Delivers programmes in law, criminology, forensic science, policing, and social work. Features specialist facilities including mock courtrooms and forensic investigation spaces.
- LLB (Hons) Law
- BSc (Hons) Forensic Science
- BA (Hons) Criminology
School of Engineering and the Built Environment
Provides programmes in mechanical, electrical, and automotive engineering, as well as construction and the built environment. Students benefit from hands-on learning in modern engineering labs.
- BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
- BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Construction Management
School of Education, Childhood and Sport
Offers teacher training, childhood studies, and sport-related programmes. The school equips graduates for careers in education, youth work, and the sports industry.
- BA (Hons) Education Studies
- BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies
- BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- Academic QualificationA-levels, BTEC, IB Diploma (28 points), or equivalent international qualifications
- IELTS ScoreMinimum 6.0 overall (5.5 in each component)
- Application MethodApply via UCAS for undergraduate programmes
- Personal StatementRequired as part of the UCAS application
- ReferencesOne academic reference required
Postgraduate Admission
- Academic QualificationBachelor's degree with minimum 2:2 classification or international equivalent
- IELTS ScoreMinimum 6.5 overall (some programmes may require higher)
- Application MethodApply directly via the university's online portal
- Supporting DocumentsPersonal statement, CV, and academic transcripts
- ReferencesTwo references (academic and/or professional)
Deadline for undergraduate applications to be considered equally by all universities.
Last date to submit undergraduate applications through UCAS before Clearing opens.
Most postgraduate programmes accept applications on a rolling basis. Apply early to secure your place.
Available places are offered through UCAS Clearing for undergraduate applicants.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
The University of Staffordshire offers competitive tuition fees, particularly compared to many other UK universities. Stoke-on-Trent is also one of the most affordable student cities in the UK, helping to keep overall costs manageable. Contact the university directly for the most current fee schedule.
| Fee Category | UK Students (per year) | International Students (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Degree | GBP 9,250 - GBP 9,535 | GBP 16,750 - GBP 19,000 |
| Postgraduate Taught | GBP 6,000 - GBP 10,500 | GBP 15,500 - GBP 19,000 |
| Accelerated Degree (2-year) | GBP 11,100 | Contact university |
| Placement Year Fee | Up to 20% of standard fee | Up to 20% of standard fee |
| Total | Varies by programme | Varies by programme |
International SMART Scholarship
All international students studying at the Stoke-on-Trent campus receive an automatic GBP 3,000 scholarship applied as a tuition fee discount.
- Value: GBP 3,000 tuition fee reduction
- Eligibility: All self-funded international students
- Application: Automatically applied upon enrolment
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship
Awarded to high-achieving students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential. Additional merit-based scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
- Value: GBP 1,000 - GBP 2,000 tuition fee discount
- Eligibility: Based on academic performance and course requirements
- Application: Apply through the university's online scholarship portal
Campus & Facilities
Campus & Facilities
The University of Staffordshire operates multiple campuses, with its main campus in Stoke-on-Trent conveniently located next to Stoke-on-Trent railway station. The university has invested significantly in modern facilities, including a Science Centre opened in 2012 and a GBP 5.8 million Centre for Health Innovation opened in 2022.
A hi-tech learning hub featuring advanced computing labs, motion capture studios, and virtual production suites for digital and creative programmes.
A GBP 5.8 million facility in Stafford providing clinical simulation suites for nursing, midwifery, and paramedic science students.
A modern library and learning resource centre offering 24/7 study hubs, digital resources, and collaborative study spaces.
Housing & Dining
Accommodation
The university guarantees accommodation for all first-year students who make Staffordshire their firm UCAS choice. A new Student Village is opening in September 2026 at the heart of the Stoke-on-Trent campus.
- En-suite and shared facility rooms available
- All accommodation close to teaching and social venues
- Stafford campus offers 264 en-suite and 290 shared rooms
Dining & Social Spaces
The campus features multiple cafes and social venues across the Leek Road and College Road sites. Award-winning venues hold Best Bar None Gold status.
- Squeeze Box smoothie and coffee bar
- Ember Lounge for quizzes, karaoke, and social events
- Multiple cafes across both campus areas
Student Life at Staffordshire
Student Life at Staffordshire
Student life at the University of Staffordshire is vibrant and inclusive, with the Students' Union organising events, campaigns, and societies throughout the year. The university fosters a welcoming community where students from over 70 countries come together to learn and socialise.
Stoke-on-Trent: Location & City Life
Stoke-on-Trent: Location & City Life
Discover Stoke-on-Trent
Stoke-on-Trent is a culturally significant city in the heart of England, known worldwide as the birthplace of the ceramics industry. With excellent transport links — including a mainline train station adjacent to campus — students can easily reach Manchester, Birmingham, and London. The city offers an affordable cost of living, a growing cultural scene, and proximity to the stunning Peak District National Park.
Affordable Living
Stoke-on-Trent is one of the most affordable places to live and study in the UK, with lower accommodation and living costs compared to major cities.
Cultural Quarter
The city centre features galleries, theatres, live music venues, and restaurants, all within walking distance of the main campus.
Peak District Access
The Peak District National Park is less than an hour away, offering hiking, cycling, and outdoor adventures in stunning natural landscapes.
Central UK Location
Excellent rail connections put Manchester at 1 hour, Birmingham at 50 minutes, and London at approximately 1.5 hours from Stoke-on-Trent station.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Where Graduates Work
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
Dedicated international admissions team provides guidance on Student visa applications, CAS letters, and immigration requirements. A deposit of GBP 6,500 is required before the university issues a CAS.
International students receive pre-arrival guidance, airport pickup options, and a comprehensive orientation programme to help them settle into life in the UK.
The Careers Studio offers one-on-one career counselling, CV workshops, mock interviews, employer networking events, and placement support throughout your studies.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
The University of Staffordshire is recognised in multiple international and national ranking systems. It is particularly noted for its career-focused education, social inclusion, and strength in games and digital technology programmes.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Games Education | Rookies Global School Rankings | 1st in UK (2025) |
| Career Prospects | Whatuni Student Choice Awards | 3rd in UK (2025) |
| Social Inclusion | The Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide | 2nd in UK (2026) |
| Journalism | University Guru Subject Rankings | 3rd in UK |
Features
Staffordshire University is known for strong employability (work placements, industry connections), foundation year pathways, good simulation labs, creative disciplines, support for research students, and strong international student support.
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 - January
Location
College Rd, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2DE, United Kingdom
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