The University of Buckingham
United Kingdom
The University of Buckingham
Buckingham, United Kingdom
Founded
1973
Institution Type
Private (Non-Profit)
Total Students
~3,500
Student-Staff Ratio
10.5:1
Discover the University of Buckingham: The UK's Pioneering Private University
Discover the University of Buckingham: The UK's Pioneering Private University
The University of Buckingham is a non-profit private university located in the historic market town of Buckingham, England. Founded as the University College at Buckingham in 1973 and granted university status by Royal Charter in 1983, it holds the distinction of being the UK's oldest private university and the only independent university in the country with a Royal Charter.
Buckingham is renowned for pioneering the accelerated two-year honours degree in the UK, allowing students to complete their studies faster by utilising the traditional long vacation as an additional teaching term. The university operates entirely on student fees and endowments, receiving no direct government funding, which gives it a unique level of academic independence and flexibility.
With over 100 nationalities represented in a student body of around 3,500, Buckingham offers a truly international learning environment. Its small class sizes and Oxbridge-style tutorial teaching system ensure personalised attention, and the university has consistently ranked highly for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey.
Key Milestones
- 1973: Founded as the University College at Buckingham, the first new independent university in the UK in over 600 years.
- 1983: Granted university status by Royal Charter, becoming the UK's first private university since 1919.
- 2015: Opened the first private medical school in the UK in partnership with Milton Keynes NHS Foundation Trust.
- 2017: Awarded Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), recognising teaching of the highest quality found in the UK.
Academic Structure and Schools
Academic Structure and Schools
The University of Buckingham organises its academic provision across several schools and faculties, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. The university's four main faculties are Business, Humanities and Social Sciences; Computing, Law and Psychology; Medicine and Health Sciences; and Education. Each faculty is supported by dedicated registrars, administrative teams, and quality managers.
School of Business
Offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in business, entrepreneurship, accounting, and finance, with a strong focus on employability and practical skills development.
- BSc Business Management
- BSc Accounting and Finance
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
School of Law
One of the university's largest and most established schools, renowned for its legal education with an emphasis on rigorous examination-based assessment alongside coursework.
- LLB Law
- LLM International and Commercial Law
- Postgraduate Diploma in Drafting Legislation
School of Medicine
Opened in 2015 as the UK's first private medical school, offering a 4.5-year MBChB degree in partnership with Milton Keynes University Hospital and the NHS Trust.
- MBChB Medicine
- MSc Clinical Medicine
- Master of Surgery (MCh)
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Covers disciplines including history, English literature, economics, politics, and international studies, with a student-to-staff ratio among the top five faculties in the country.
- BA English Literature
- BSc Economics
- MA Security and Intelligence Studies
School of Computing and Psychology
Offers programmes in computing, information systems, and psychology, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications and research opportunities.
- BSc Computer Science
- BSc Psychology
- MSc Applied Computing
School of Education
Conducts research into education and school provision while maintaining PGCE courses for teacher training, accredited with Qualified Teacher Status for both state and independent sectors.
- PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education)
- MA Education
- EdD (Doctor of Education)
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admissions
- Application RouteApply via UCAS or directly through the university's online application form
- Academic RequirementA-levels (or equivalent international qualifications); requirements vary by programme
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.0-6.5 overall (or equivalent TOEFL, PTE, CPE scores)
- Application FeeFree when applying directly; UCAS application fee applies if using UCAS
- Personal StatementRequired, along with an academic reference
Postgraduate Admissions
- Academic RequirementA recognised bachelor's degree with a minimum of 2:2 classification (or international equivalent)
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 overall (or equivalent TOEFL, PTE, CPE scores); some programmes may require higher
- Application RouteApply directly online via the university's official website
- Work ExperienceSome postgraduate programmes may require relevant professional experience
- Supporting DocumentsAcademic transcripts, personal statement, references, and CV/resume
Applications accepted on a rolling basis; early application is recommended to secure a place and allow time for visa processing.
Applications accepted on a rolling basis for the January start; ideal for students who missed the September deadline.
For undergraduate applications through UCAS, submit by 15 January for equal consideration in the September intake cycle.
The medical programme has specific deadlines; contact the admissions office directly for the most current dates.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
As an independent private university, the University of Buckingham sets its own tuition fees. The accelerated two-year degree structure means students can save on living costs and enter the workforce a year earlier, making the overall cost competitive with traditional three-year programmes at other UK universities.
| Fee Category | UK Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | GBP 13,500 - GBP 15,000 | GBP 13,500 - GBP 22,200 |
| Postgraduate Taught | GBP 14,000 - GBP 19,500 | GBP 14,000 - GBP 22,200 |
| Medicine (MBChB) | Contact university for current fees | Contact university for current fees |
| Accommodation (Annual) | GBP 3,800 - GBP 7,300 | GBP 3,800 - GBP 7,300 |
| Total | Varies by programme; contact the university for a personalised estimate | Varies by programme; contact the university for a personalised estimate |
High Achiever Scholarship
Awarded to students who make Buckingham their firm choice and achieve AAB or above in their A-levels (or equivalent). This merit-based award recognises outstanding academic achievement.
- Award Amount: GBP 2,000
- Eligibility: A-level grades AAB or equivalent
- Application: Automatically assessed upon enrolment
Kingham Scholarship
A prestigious scholarship for students in Business Enterprise who demonstrate an exceptional business plan. This award supports entrepreneurial talent and innovation.
- Award Amount: GBP 25,000
- Eligibility: Business Enterprise students with a strong business plan
- Application: Separate application required; check university website for deadlines
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Buckingham's campus is set in the picturesque market town of Buckingham, with the River Great Ouse winding through its heart. The university operates across three closely situated campuses — Hunter Street, Verney Park, and Mount Pleasant — all within a mile of each other, blending historic architecture with modern teaching facilities.
The main riverside campus features Yeomanry House, the Anthony de Rothschild building, the Humanities Library, and the Tanlaw Mill social centre.
A meticulously restored former friary that now serves as a vibrant hub for teaching and learning, showcasing the university's blend of history and academia.
A converted turn-of-the-century building overlooking the campus, housing teaching spaces and the Smallbone Library, a key academic resource for students.
Housing and Dining
Student Accommodation
The university guarantees accommodation for international students for up to two years. Residential buildings are well-maintained with dining areas and internet access.
- On-campus catered halls with weekday meals included
- Twin and single room options available across campuses
- Free gym membership included for residential students
Dining and Social Spaces
Students enjoy on-site food and drink establishments, as well as the Tanlaw Mill social centre which houses the main refectory and Students' Union Office.
- Main refectory at Tanlaw Mill with varied meal options
- Cafes and common rooms across all three campuses
- Close proximity to Buckingham town centre restaurants and shops
Student Life at the University of Buckingham
Student Life at the University of Buckingham
Despite its small size, the University of Buckingham offers a vibrant and diverse student experience. With over 100 nationalities represented on campus, the university provides a truly international community where students form lasting friendships and global connections.
Location: Buckingham and the Surrounding Region
Location: Buckingham and the Surrounding Region
Life in Buckingham
Buckingham is a historic market town in north Buckinghamshire, offering a safe, friendly, and affordable environment for students. Situated between Oxford and Cambridge, and just a short drive from Milton Keynes and Bicester, the town provides easy access to London and major UK cities while maintaining its quintessentially English charm.
Strategic Location
Buckingham is approximately 20 miles north-east of Oxford and 15 miles west of Milton Keynes, with excellent road connections to London, Birmingham, and the wider UK.
Silverstone Circuit
The world-famous Silverstone racing circuit, home of the British Grand Prix, is located just down the road from Buckingham, hosting major motorsport and entertainment events.
Local Culture and Events
Enjoy weekly street markets, Buckingham's annual Charter Fair, the MK Pride Festival, and various music and food festivals throughout the year.
Natural Beauty
The surrounding countryside offers beautiful walks, cycling routes, and outdoor activities, with the River Great Ouse providing a scenic backdrop to daily campus life.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where Buckingham Graduates Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Office provides dedicated support for overseas students, including guidance on visa applications, immigration requirements, and settling into life in the UK.
Students can book one-to-one sessions with careers advisers, attend workshops on CV writing and interview preparation, and access the B-Enterprising paid micro-internship scheme.
For students who have not yet achieved the required academic qualifications or English language level, the Foundation Department offers tailored preparatory programmes to bridge the gap.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University Rankings
University Rankings
The University of Buckingham is recognised for its strong student satisfaction, teaching quality, and graduate prospects. As a small private institution, it is not always included in all major global ranking systems, but it performs well in UK national rankings, particularly for student experience and specific subject areas.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | Complete University Guide | #38 |
| Economics | National Student Survey | #4 |
| Business and Management | Complete University Guide | Top 5 for Student Satisfaction |
| Computing | National Student Survey | #2 Overall |
Features
Unique private, not-for-profit model\n\nEmphasis on small class sizes and personalized teaching\n\nTwo-year accelerated undergraduate degrees\n\nStrong focus on employability and practical skills\n\nCampus located in historic Buckinghamshire town\n\n
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 - August
Location
Hunter St, Buckingham MK18 1EG, United Kingdom
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