University of Bath
United Kingdom
University of Bath
Bath, United Kingdom
Founded
1966
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
20,000+
QS World Ranking
#132 (2026)
University of Bath: Overview & History
University of Bath: Overview & History
The University of Bath is a leading public research university located on Claverton Down, overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath in South West England. Established by Royal Charter in 1966, the university has built an outstanding reputation for teaching excellence, innovative research, and strong industry connections that prepare graduates for successful careers.
Bath's roots trace back to the Bristol Trade School established in 1856, which later became the Merchant Venturers' Technical College in 1885. The institution merged with the Bath School of Pharmacy in 1929 and evolved through several iterations before receiving its Royal Charter as Bath University of Technology in 1966, becoming the University of Bath in 1971.
Today, the university is ranked in the top 10 in all major UK league tables and within the top 150 universities worldwide. Bath achieved Triple Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, the highest possible rating, and 92% of its research was classified as world-leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework 2021.
Key Milestones
- 1856: Bristol Trade School established, the earliest predecessor institution of the University of Bath.
- 1966: Royal Charter granted on 25 October 1966, officially founding Bath University of Technology on Claverton Down.
- 2004: Sports Training Village opened by HRH The Princess Royal; SETsquared Partnership launched with Bristol, Southampton, and Surrey.
- 2023: Awarded Triple Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework for overall assessment, student experience, and student outcomes.
Academic Structure & Faculties
Academic Structure & Faculties
The University of Bath organises its academic departments into three faculties and one school. Each faculty delivers research-led teaching across a broad portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, many of which include professional placement opportunities with leading employers.
Faculty of Engineering & Design
One of Bath's founding strengths, this faculty covers architecture, civil engineering, chemical engineering, electronic and electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. Programmes are accredited by leading professional bodies and feature strong industry placement opportunities.
- Mechanical Engineering (BEng/MEng)
- Architecture (BSc/MArch)
- Chemical Engineering (BEng/MEng)
Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences
Comprising six academic departments, this faculty offers programmes in economics, education, health, politics, languages, psychology, and social policy. Research in this faculty spans world-leading work in child poverty, tobacco control, and international development.
- Psychology (BSc)
- Economics (BSc)
- Politics and International Relations (BSc)
Faculty of Science
Bringing together five departments, the Faculty of Science covers biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematical sciences, pharmacy, and physics. Students benefit from close collaboration with industry and access to cutting-edge research facilities.
- Computer Science (BSc/MComp)
- Pharmacy (MPharm)
- Natural Sciences (BSc/MSci)
School of Management
Internationally recognised and triple-accredited (AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB), the School of Management is consistently ranked among the top business schools in the UK. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate, MBA, and doctoral programmes with a strong emphasis on practical business skills.
- Business (BSc)
- MSc International Management
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
Department of Sport, Exercise & Health Sciences
Ranked 1st in the UK for Sports Science, this department delivers highly rated courses alongside research promoting wellbeing and enhancing functional performance. The department benefits from the university's outstanding Sports Training Village facilities.
- Sport and Exercise Science (BSc)
- Sport Management (MSc)
- Health and Wellbeing (MSc)
Department of Education
Part of the Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences, the Department of Education conducts research and teaches courses to further understanding of education-related issues nationally and internationally. Programmes cover TESOL, educational leadership, and international education.
- MA Education
- MA International Education and Globalisation
- MA TESOL
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admissions
- A-Level RequirementsTypically AAA to A*A*A depending on programme
- International BaccalaureateTypically 36-39 points depending on programme
- IELTS Score6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in each component) for most programmes
- Application PlatformUCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)
- Personal StatementRequired, demonstrating academic interest and suitability for chosen course
Postgraduate Admissions
- Degree ClassificationTypically a 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent
- IELTS Score6.5 to 7.0 overall depending on programme
- ReferencesAt least one academic reference required
- CV/ResumeRequired for most postgraduate taught programmes
- Application MethodDirect online application through the University of Bath website
Deadline for undergraduate applications to receive equal consideration through UCAS.
Deadline for undergraduate programmes with early application requirements.
Many postgraduate taught programmes accept applications on a rolling basis. Apply early as courses fill quickly.
Research degree deadlines vary by department and funding availability. Check individual programme pages for details.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition fees at the University of Bath vary depending on your programme and fee status. The university offers a range of scholarships for international students, with up to GBP 9.2 million available in scholarships for the September 2026 intake. Contact the university directly for the most current fee information for your specific programme.
| Fee Category | UK (Home) Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 9,250 | GBP 22,400 - GBP 30,000 |
| Postgraduate Taught (per year) | GBP 12,000 - GBP 16,000 | GBP 22,000 - GBP 37,500 |
| Accommodation (per year, approx.) | GBP 5,000 - GBP 9,000 | GBP 5,000 - GBP 9,000 |
| Living Expenses (estimated per year) | GBP 12,000 - GBP 15,000 | GBP 12,000 - GBP 15,000 |
| Total | GBP 38,250 - GBP 49,250 | GBP 61,400 - GBP 91,500 |
Bath International Scholarships (Undergraduate)
Up to 300 merit-based scholarships for high-achieving international undergraduate students joining a course in September 2026, providing significant tuition fee reductions over the duration of study.
- Award Value: GBP 8,000 per year (GBP 24,000 over three years)
- Number Available: Up to 300
- Eligibility: International students with outstanding academic achievement
Bath Global Excellence Scholarships (Postgraduate)
Awarded for academic excellence, these scholarships support eligible international students pursuing a full-time taught master's course at the University of Bath.
- Award Value: GBP 10,000
- Number Available: Up to 250
- Additional Awards: Over 100 Bath Merit Awards worth GBP 5,000 also available
Campus & Facilities
Campus & Facilities
The University of Bath's main campus is located on Claverton Down, a hilltop site overlooking the historic city of Bath. The compact, purpose-built campus allows you to walk from one end to the other in about fifteen minutes, with all key facilities easily accessible along the central Parade walkway. Over the past decade, the university has invested over GBP 450 million in campus improvements.
The 24-hour Library sits at the heart of campus, offering extensive computing services, research assistance, study spaces, and access to books and journals.
A GBP 35 million facility featuring an Olympic legacy swimming pool, multi-sport arena, gym across three floors, and training facilities used by international athletes.
On-campus and city-centre accommodation options provide a range of self-catered and catered living arrangements for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Housing & Dining
Accommodation Options
The university offers a variety of accommodation for both undergraduates and postgraduates, with options on the Claverton Down campus and in the city centre.
- On-campus halls with en-suite and shared bathroom options
- City-centre accommodation with regular bus links to campus
- Disability-friendly, alcohol-free, and quiet accommodation available
Dining & Amenities
The campus features multiple restaurants, bars, cafes, and two small supermarkets along the central Parade, providing diverse food and shopping options.
- Multiple restaurants, cafes, and fast-food outlets on campus
- Two on-campus supermarkets for daily grocery needs
- The Edge arts centre with music rooms, art classes, and drama studios
Student Life at Bath
Student Life at Bath
Student life at the University of Bath is vibrant and diverse, centred around a close-knit campus community. The Students' Union, recognised as one of the top three in the UK by the NUS, operates nearly 200 societies and clubs covering every interest imaginable, from academic and cultural groups to niche societies.
Bath: A UNESCO World Heritage City
Bath: A UNESCO World Heritage City
Life in Bath
Bath is a beautiful, compact, and walkable city in South West England, famous for its Roman heritage and elegant Georgian architecture. It holds the rare distinction of being inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list twice — for its historic architecture and as one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. Located just 80 minutes from London by train, Bath offers an exceptional quality of life with a rich cultural scene, excellent restaurants, and easy access to the stunning countryside of the South West.
Historic Landmarks
Explore the Roman Baths, the iconic Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge, and Bath Abbey — all within walking distance of the city centre.
Safe & Welcoming
Ranked the 3rd safest university town or city in England and Wales by the Complete University Guide in 2024, Bath offers a secure environment for students.
Excellent Transport Links
Direct trains to London (80 minutes), Bristol (12 minutes), and easy access to Heathrow Airport and Bristol International Airport.
Gateway to the South West
From Bath you can explore the Jurassic Coast of Dorset and Devon, surf in Cornwall, visit Stonehenge, or enjoy the nearby cities of Bristol and Cardiff.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Top Graduate Employers
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
Dedicated support including an international orientation programme and mentoring scheme to help you settle into life in the UK and at Bath.
Guidance on student visa applications, Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), and compliance with UK visa regulations throughout your studies.
If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your degree, Bath offers pre-sessional English courses of varying lengths.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
The University of Bath is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and the world, reflecting its commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and graduate outcomes. Bath appears in the top 10 of all three major UK league tables and is recognised globally for its strong employer reputation.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Sports Science | Guardian University Guide | #1 in UK |
| Mechanical Engineering | Guardian University Guide | #3 in UK |
| Business & Management | Guardian University Guide | Top 5 in UK |
| Employer Reputation | QS World University Rankings | Top 100 Globally |
Features
We received our Royal Charter in 1966 and are now established as a top 10 UK university with a reputation for research and teaching excellence.\nWe're highly ranked in independent league tables for overall performance, student satisfaction and graduate employment.

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
Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
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