University of Derby
United Kingdom
University of Derby
Derby, United Kingdom
Founded
1851
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
34,000+
TEF Rating
Gold (2023)
University of Derby: Overview & History
University of Derby: Overview & History
The University of Derby is a public university located in the city of Derby in the East Midlands of England. It traces its origins back to 1851 with the establishment of the Derby Diocesan Institution for the Training of Schoolmistresses, and gained full university status in 1992 under the Further and Higher Education Act.
Today the university is home to around 34,000 students, including approximately 1,700 international students from over 100 countries. It offers more than 300 programmes across a wide range of disciplines, from foundation and undergraduate degrees through to postgraduate study and research, with campuses in Derby and Chesterfield.
The University of Derby was awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, recognising it as one of the top UK universities for outstanding student experience and outcomes. It has strong industry partnerships with global organisations such as Rolls-Royce, Toyota, and the NHS, ensuring courses are informed by real-world practice.
Key Milestones
- 1851: Derby Diocesan Institution for the Training of Schoolmistresses established, marking the university's earliest origins.
- 1992: Gained full university status under the Further and Higher Education Act, becoming the University of Derby.
- 2022: Opened the Nuclear Skills Academy in partnership with Rolls-Royce Submarines Ltd for apprentice training.
- 2023: Awarded Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), recognising outstanding teaching quality and student outcomes.
Academic Structure & Colleges
Academic Structure & Colleges
The University of Derby organises its academic provision across several colleges and schools, each offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical, industry-relevant experience. With over 300 programmes and around 100 online courses, the university provides flexible pathways from foundation level to doctoral research.
Derby International Business School
Offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in accounting, business, international business, economics, finance, and marketing, with strong industry links and professional accreditations.
- BA (Hons) Business Management
- BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance
- MBA Global
School of Health and Social Care
Provides programmes in nursing, occupational therapy, health sciences, and social care, with access to NHS-standard hospital ward facilities and strong placement opportunities.
- BSc (Hons) Nursing
- BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care
- MSc Occupational Therapy
School of Humanities and Creative Arts
Delivers inspiration, stimulation, and real-world insight through programmes in English, history, fine art, animation, creative writing, and performing arts.
- BA (Hons) Fine Art
- BA (Hons) Animation
- BA (Hons) English
College of Science and Engineering
Focused on improving health and security through programmes in forensic science, engineering, biosciences, computing, and environmental sustainability, supported by specialist laboratories and research facilities.
- BSc (Hons) Forensic Science
- BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science
Institute of Education
Prepares the next generation of teachers and education professionals with a focus on individual student experience and practical classroom readiness for 21st-century learning.
- BA (Hons) Primary Education
- PGCE Primary
- MA Education
School of Law, Criminology and Social Sciences
Offers programmes in law, criminology, policing, and social sciences, with access to a replica Crown Court, custody suite, and a student-led legal advice centre providing pro bono community support.
- LLB (Hons) Law
- BSc (Hons) Criminology
- BSc (Hons) Policing
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admissions
- Application MethodApply via UCAS
- UCAS Tariff PointsVaries by course; typically 48-120 points
- IELTS (International)Minimum 6.0 overall, no sub-score below 5.5
- Personal StatementRequired as part of UCAS application
- Academic TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from previous studies required
Postgraduate Admissions
- Application MethodApply directly via the university website
- Degree RequirementRelevant undergraduate degree (typically 2:2 or above)
- IELTS (International)Minimum 6.5 overall, no sub-score below 5.5
- ReferencesAcademic or professional references required
- Supporting DocumentsCV, personal statement, and academic transcripts
Deadline for undergraduate applications to be considered equally. Applications submitted after this date may still be considered if places remain available.
Final deadline for undergraduate applications through UCAS before Clearing opens.
Postgraduate application deadlines vary by programme. Early application is recommended, especially for programmes with limited places.
Clearing period for undergraduate applicants who have not yet secured a place or who received results different from expected.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
The University of Derby offers competitive tuition fees compared to many UK universities, with a range of scholarships and bursaries available for both home and international students. Below is an overview of annual tuition fees. Contact the university for the most current fee schedule.
| Fee Category | Home Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | GBP 9,535 | GBP 15,250 - GBP 16,900 |
| Postgraduate Taught (Masters) | Contact university for details | GBP 14,900 - GBP 16,500 |
| MBA Global | Contact university for details | GBP 16,500 |
| Estimated Living Costs | GBP 9,000 - GBP 12,000 | GBP 12,000 - GBP 15,000 |
| Total | Contact university for details | GBP 27,000 - GBP 32,000 (estimated) |
International Scholarship
The University of Derby offers a range of scholarships and discounts for international students, which can be combined to reduce tuition fees during the first year of study.
- Value: GBP 100 - GBP 5,000
- Eligibility: International students with an offer for a full-time degree
- Application: Some awarded automatically; others require application after receiving an offer
Alumni Discount
Graduates of the University of Derby returning for postgraduate studies can receive a loyalty discount on tuition fees, making further study more affordable.
- Value: 10% - 25% tuition fee reduction
- Eligibility: University of Derby graduates enrolling in postgraduate programmes
- Application: Applied automatically upon enrolment verification
Campus & Facilities
Campus & Facilities
The University of Derby has invested over GBP 200 million in its campus facilities over the past decade, providing state-of-the-art learning environments across its sites in Derby and Chesterfield. Industry-standard facilities ensure students gain hands-on experience with the same tools and technology used in their future careers.
The main campus in Derby houses the majority of courses, the university library, Sports Centre, and Students' Union facilities.
A fully equipped sports centre featuring a gym, climbing wall, squash courts, 3G pitches, fitness studios, and outdoor tennis courts.
State-of-the-art facilities include a Bioscience Superlab, forensic training house, Financial Markets Lab, and NHS-standard hospital wards.
Housing & Dining
Accommodation
The university's halls of residence have been voted Best University Housing in the UK for four consecutive years at the Global Student Living Awards (2022-2025). All bills are included in rent.
- Seven halls of residence close to the city centre
- En-suite, studio, and standard room options available
- Guaranteed room for first-choice applicants who apply by 31 July
Dining & Social Spaces
The campus offers a range of dining and social options for students, including branded outlets and independent cafes, all conveniently located near teaching and study spaces.
- Starbucks, Subway, and campus cafes on site
- Union of Students cafe and bar
- Spacious study areas and social lounges throughout campus
Student Life at the University of Derby
Student Life at the University of Derby
Life at the University of Derby extends well beyond the classroom. With more than 70 clubs and societies, a thriving Union of Students, and a GBP 10.8 million Sports Centre, there are endless opportunities to socialise, develop new skills, and enjoy a vibrant student experience.
Derby: Location & City Life
Derby: Location & City Life
Discover Derby
Derby is a vibrant, culturally diverse city in the East Midlands of England, renowned as a centre for innovation with global companies such as Rolls-Royce, Toyota, and Bombardier based there. Its central location makes it easy to reach other major UK cities by road and rail, while East Midlands Airport is less than 20 minutes away. The city offers a welcoming, safe environment with Purple Flag status for its evening entertainment, and living costs are significantly lower than in larger UK cities.
Peak District National Park
Just a short drive from campus, the Peak District offers stunning landscapes, stately homes like Chatsworth House, and exhilarating outdoor activities including hiking and cycling.
Central UK Location
Derby's central position provides easy access to London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Nottingham by train, making it an ideal base for exploring the UK.
Derbion Shopping Centre
The city centre features Derbion, a major shopping destination, alongside independent boutiques, restaurants, bars, and cultural venues.
Affordable City Living
Derby offers significantly lower living costs compared to larger UK cities like London or Manchester, with international students typically spending GBP 1,038 to GBP 1,282 per month.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Top Graduate Employers
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
The university provides dedicated support for its 1,700+ international students from over 100 countries, including pre-arrival guidance, orientation programmes, and ongoing pastoral care throughout your studies.
Pre-sessional English language programmes are available for students who need to improve their English before starting their degree. The university accepts IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, and Cambridge English qualifications.
Specialist advisors help international students with visa applications, Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letters, and immigration compliance throughout their time at the university.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
The University of Derby features in several major national and international university rankings. Awarded TEF Gold in 2023, it is recognised for outstanding teaching quality and student outcomes. Below are its positions across key ranking bodies.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Marketing and Public Relations | The Guardian | #2 in UK |
| Hospitality and Tourism | The Guardian | Top 10 in UK |
| Criminology | The Guardian | Top 10 in UK |
| Accounting and Finance | The Guardian | Top 10 in UK |
Features
The University of Derby is a modern public university in the heart of England offering high-quality teaching, excellent employability outcomes, and strong industry links. With a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), Derby is known for its supportive learning environment, career-focused programs, and inclusive community. The university combines academic excellence with hands-on experience, ensuring students graduate ready for the global job market. It also provides affordable living, vibrant student life, and diverse international representation.\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 - May
Location
Kedleston Rd, Derby DE22 1GB, United Kingdom
Map not found.
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