University of Bradford
Bradford, United Kingdom
University of Bradford
Bradford, United Kingdom
Founded
1966 (origins 1832)
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
~10,000
QS World Ranking
#511 (2026)
University of Bradford: Overview and History
University of Bradford: Overview and History
The University of Bradford is a public research university located in the city of Bradford, West Yorkshire, England. It received its Royal Charter in 1966, making it the 40th university to be established in Britain, though its origins trace back to the founding of the Mechanics Institute in 1832.
The university is internationally recognised for establishing the first British university Department of Peace Studies in 1973, which remains the largest university centre for the study of peace and conflict in the world. Its School of Management holds the prestigious Triple Crown accreditation from EQUIS, AMBA, and AACSB, placing it among an elite group of global business schools.
Bradford is consistently ranked first in England for social mobility by the Higher Education Policy Institute and was named University of the Year for Social Inclusion by the Daily Mail University Guide 2026. With students from over 120 countries, the university offers a diverse, inclusive community focused on applied research and career-ready education.
Key Milestones
- 1832: Bradford Mechanics Institute founded, marking the earliest origins of the university.
- 1966: Royal Charter granted by Queen Elizabeth II, formally establishing the University of Bradford.
- 1973: First British university to establish a Department of Peace Studies.
- 2018: Became the first British University of Sanctuary, recognising its commitment to refugees and asylum seekers.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
The University of Bradford organises its teaching and research across two main academic faculties, each comprising several specialist schools. With over 100 undergraduate and postgraduate courses, the university emphasises practical, industry-engaged education with strong professional accreditation across its programmes.
School of Management
One of the oldest university-based business schools in the UK, holding the coveted Triple Crown accreditation (EQUIS, AMBA, AACSB). Consistently ranked first in the world for value for money for its online MBA by the Financial Times.
- MBA / Executive MBA
- BSc Business and Management Studies
- MSc Finance and Accounting
School of Computing and Engineering
Covers a broad range of disciplines from civil, chemical, and mechanical engineering to computer science, AI, and cyber security. Many courses are accredited by relevant professional engineering institutions.
- BEng/MEng Civil Engineering
- MSc Computer Science
- BEng Chemical Engineering
School of Law and Social Sciences
Internationally recognised for research and teaching across the social sciences, including the renowned Department of Peace Studies. Offers a wide range of law programmes with opportunities for specialisation.
- LLB Law
- MA Peace, Conflict and Development
- BSc Psychology
School of Allied Health Professions
Offers highly regarded programmes in paramedic science, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy. Bradford is ranked 3rd in the UK for Paramedic Science and features specialist simulation suites for clinical training.
- BSc Paramedic Science
- BSc Physiotherapy
- MSc Occupational Therapy
School of Pharmacy, Optometry and Medical Sciences
Home to the Bradford School of Optometry and Vision Science, which operates its own Eye Clinic, and the Institute of Cancer Therapeutics. Ranked 3rd in the UK for Optometry by the Complete University Guide 2026.
- MPharm Pharmacy
- BSc Optometry
- MSc Drug Toxicology
School of Nursing, Public Health and Healthcare Leadership
Provides specialist courses in nursing, midwifery, and public health. Originally formed from the merger with Bradford and Airedale College of Health in 1996, the school has a strong track record of producing healthcare professionals.
- BSc Nursing (Adult)
- BSc Midwifery
- MSc Public Health
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admissions
- Application MethodApply via UCAS
- Typical A-Level OfferBBC to ABB (varies by programme)
- IELTS (International)6.0 overall, minimum 5.5 per component
- TOEFL iBT80 overall (minimum 18 reading, 17 writing, 17 listening, 20 speaking)
- Foundation YearAvailable via University of Bradford International College (UBIC)
Postgraduate Admissions
- Application MethodApply directly via the university website
- Degree RequirementMinimum 2:1 honours degree or equivalent
- IELTS (International)6.0–6.5 overall (varies by programme)
- ReferencesAcademic or professional references typically required
- Personal StatementRequired for most programmes
Submit UCAS undergraduate applications by this date for equal consideration by the university.
Last date for UCAS undergraduate applications before Clearing opens.
Postgraduate taught programmes accept applications on a rolling basis. Apply early to secure your place.
International students must pay their tuition fee deposit and receive their CAS by this date for September entry.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
The University of Bradford offers competitive tuition fees compared to many UK institutions. The university invests over GBP 4 million each year into scholarships and bursaries for students from all backgrounds.
| Fee Category | Home (UK) Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 9,250 | GBP 16,100 – GBP 16,890 |
| Postgraduate Taught (per year) | Contact university for details | GBP 15,700 – GBP 26,096 |
| Sandwich Year Placement Fee | GBP 1,000 approx. | Contact university for details |
| Estimated Living Costs (per month) | GBP 691 – GBP 742 | GBP 691 – GBP 742 |
| Total | Contact university for current totals | Contact university for current totals |
International Excellence Scholarship
Available to high-achieving international students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programmes. Awards are based on academic excellence and personal circumstances.
- Eligibility: International fee-paying students with strong academic records
- Value: Partial tuition fee reduction
- Application: Apply through the university scholarship portal after receiving an offer
Academic Excellence Scholarship (UK)
Designed for UK home students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount to support top-performing students.
- Eligibility: UK home students meeting academic criteria
- Value: Up to GBP 3,000
- Deadline: May 31 each year
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Bradford is based on a compact, city-centre campus that has benefited from significant investment. The GBP 120 million campus features modern teaching facilities, specialist research labs, and one of the most sustainable student accommodation developments in the UK.
A central academic hub housing lecture theatres, seminar rooms, and collaborative learning spaces.
A GBP 40 million eco-friendly student accommodation village with the highest BREEAM sustainability rating ever awarded.
The main library offering extensive print and digital resources, study spaces, and IT facilities available to all students.
Housing and Dining
Accommodation
Bradford offers a range of on-campus and university-managed accommodation options, including the award-winning The Green student village designed for eco-friendly living.
- The Green: BREEAM Outstanding-rated student village
- En-suite and shared bathroom options available
- All halls within walking distance of campus facilities
Dining and Social Spaces
The campus features multiple cafes, a students' union with social venues, and convenient retail outlets to meet everyday needs.
- Multiple cafes and food outlets across campus
- Students' union with bars and a 1,300-capacity venue
- On-campus shops and bookstore
Student Life at Bradford
Student Life at Bradford
Student life at the University of Bradford is vibrant and inclusive, with a strong sense of community on its compact campus. The University of Bradford Students' Union (UBU) provides a wide range of activities, support services, and social events throughout the academic year.
Bradford: Location and City Life
Bradford: Location and City Life
Discover Bradford
Bradford is one of the ten largest cities in Britain yet retains a friendly, compact atmosphere. Situated in the heart of West Yorkshire, it is just 20 minutes from Leeds and one hour by train from Manchester, with excellent road, rail, and air connections across the UK.
UNESCO City of Film
Bradford was the first city in the world to receive the UNESCO City of Film designation, home to the National Science and Media Museum — the most visited museum outside London.
Saltaire World Heritage Site
A short bus ride from campus is Saltaire, a perfectly preserved Victorian village and UNESCO World Heritage Site, housing one of the largest collections of artwork by Bradford-born David Hockney.
Affordable Living
Bradford offers significantly lower living costs compared to London and many other UK university cities, with estimated monthly costs of GBP 691 to GBP 742.
Yorkshire Countryside
The surrounding Yorkshire Dales and Pennine hills provide outstanding opportunities for outdoor activities including hiking, climbing, mountain biking, and canoeing.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Notable Alumni and Employers
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
The International Student Support and UKVI Compliance Team provides guidance throughout the visa application process, from CAS issuance to arrival in the UK.
Students who do not meet direct entry requirements can study foundation or pre-sessional English programmes on campus to prepare for degree-level study.
A comprehensive Welcome Week programme helps international students settle in, with ongoing support for accommodation, finances, welfare, and cultural adjustment.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
The University of Bradford has shown consistent improvement across major global and national ranking systems. Its strengths in social mobility, applied research, and graduate employability are reflected in strong performances across multiple league tables.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Paramedic Science | Complete University Guide | #3 in UK |
| Optometry | Complete University Guide | #3 in UK |
| Chemical Engineering | Guardian University Guide | #5 in UK |
| Business and Economics | Times Higher Education | #201–250 Globally |
Features
University of Bradford Highlights\n\nModern Campus: Spanning 35 acres with up-to-date academic and residential facilities.\nDiverse Programs: Offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs.\nResearch Excellence: Known for strong research in health, engineering, and social sciences.\nInternational Community: Hosts around 2,000 to 3,000 international students.\nEmployability Focus: Emphasizes career readiness with placements and internships.\nSupport Services: Provides comprehensive academic, career, and wellbeing support.\nCampus Facilities: Features a sports center, gym, and vibrant social spaces.\nStrategic Location: Located in Bradford, with access to nearby major cities.\nSustainability Initiatives: Committed to green practices and environmental responsibility.
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 - December
Location
University of Bradford Richmond Rd, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD7 1DP, United Kingdom
Map not found.
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
