University of Northampton
Northampton, United Kingdom
University of Northampton
Northampton, United Kingdom
Founded
2005
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
14,000+
Campus Investment
GBP 330 Million
University of Northampton: Overview & History
University of Northampton: Overview & History
The University of Northampton is a public university located in the historic market town of Northampton, England. Granted full university status in 2005, it has rapidly built a reputation for innovative teaching, social impact, and strong graduate employability. It was the first university in the UK to be designated a Changemaker Campus by Ashoka U in 2013, recognising its commitment to social innovation and entrepreneurship.
The university's roots trace back to 1924 when Northampton Technical College was established. Through decades of evolution, including amalgamation with the Colleges of Technology and Art to form Nene College in 1975, and the integration of the Leathersellers College from London in 1978, the institution steadily grew. It became University College Northampton in 1999 before achieving full university status and research degree awarding powers in 2005.
In 2018, the university opened its purpose-built GBP 330 million Waterside Campus on the banks of the River Nene, consolidating all academic facilities into one modern location. The campus features three main academic buildings — the Learning Hub, the Creative Hub, and the Senate — along with student residences, cafes, and green spaces. Today, the university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes across more than 29 subject areas.
Key Milestones
- 1924: Northampton Technical College was established at St George's Avenue, laying the foundations for higher education in the town.
- 1975: Nene College of Higher Education was formed by amalgamating the Colleges of Education, Technology, and Art.
- 2005: Full university status and research degree awarding powers were granted, and the institution became the University of Northampton.
- 2018: The GBP 330 million Waterside Campus opened on the banks of the River Nene, replacing the former Park and Avenue campuses.
Academic Structure & Faculties
Academic Structure & Faculties
The University of Northampton organises its academic programmes across three main faculties and several specialist schools. With a strong emphasis on applied learning, social impact, and employability, the university offers over 150 courses at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. A gold award in the Teaching Excellence Framework reflects the institution's high-quality teaching standards.
Faculty of Business and Law
This faculty delivers industry-focused programmes in business, management, law, accounting, and finance. It holds the prestigious Small Business Charter accreditation, recognising its support for entrepreneurship and small business growth.
- BA (Hons) Business and Management
- LLB (Hons) Law
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology
Covering a broad range of creative, scientific, and technical disciplines, this faculty combines hands-on learning with cutting-edge facilities including TV studios, fashion studios, and computing labs in the Creative Hub.
- BSc (Hons) Computing
- BA (Hons) Fine Art and Drawing
- BSc (Hons) Engineering
Faculty of Health and Society
This faculty prepares students for careers in healthcare, nursing, social work, and psychology. Programmes are designed with strong NHS and community partnerships, providing excellent clinical placement opportunities.
- BSc (Hons) Nursing
- BSc (Hons) Psychology
- MA Social Work
Faculty of Education and Humanities
Offering programmes in education, history, English, and the humanities, this faculty builds on the university's long tradition of teacher training dating back to the 1970s. Courses emphasise practical skills and real-world relevance.
- BA (Hons) Education Studies
- BA (Hons) History
- BA (Hons) English
Graduate School
The Graduate School supports postgraduate research students across all faculties, providing researcher development training, supervision, and administration for MPhil and PhD programmes.
- MPhil/PhD Research Programmes
- MRes Research Methods
- Professional Doctorate Programmes
University of Northampton International College (UNIC)
UNIC, operated in partnership with Navitas, provides foundation and pre-masters pathway programmes for international students who need to meet academic or English language requirements before progressing to a full degree at the university.
- International Foundation Programme
- Pre-Masters Programme
- English Language Preparation
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admissions
- QualificationsA-Levels, BTEC, International Baccalaureate, or equivalent international qualifications
- IELTS ScoreMinimum 6.0 overall with no sub-score below 5.5
- TOEFL ScoreMinimum 70 (internet-based test)
- Application MethodVia UCAS or direct application through the UON self-service portal
- DepositGBP 7,000 required prior to enrolment for international students
Postgraduate Admissions
- Degree RequirementA recognised bachelor's degree (minimum second-class or equivalent)
- IELTS ScoreMinimum 6.0 overall (some programmes require 6.5 or higher)
- Supporting DocumentsAcademic transcripts, personal statement, references (letters of recommendation)
- Work ExperienceRequired for MBA and some professional programmes; contact the university for details
- Application MethodDirect application through the UON online portal
Applications received by this date are given equal consideration for most undergraduate programmes.
Last date for undergraduate applications through UCAS for the autumn intake.
Postgraduate programmes accept applications on a rolling basis. Early application is recommended to secure a place.
International students who accept their offer and apply for housing by this date are guaranteed on-campus accommodation.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
The University of Northampton offers competitive tuition fees and a range of financial support options for both UK and international students. Every full-time student receives a free laptop, funded study trips, and access to the Northampton Employment Promise, which includes a paid internship guarantee.
| Fee Category | UK Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | GBP 9,250 | GBP 15,400 - GBP 17,495 |
| Postgraduate Taught (Masters) | GBP 8,000 - GBP 10,500 | GBP 15,400 - GBP 17,495 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | GBP 5,800 - GBP 7,200 | GBP 5,800 - GBP 7,200 |
| Estimated Living Costs | GBP 9,000 - GBP 12,000 | GBP 9,000 - GBP 12,000 |
| Total | GBP 24,050 - GBP 28,950 | GBP 30,200 - GBP 36,895 |
International Scholarship Scheme
A merit-based scholarship available to international students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programmes at the University of Northampton's UK campus, offering a significant reduction in tuition fees.
- Award Value: Up to 30% tuition fee reduction per year
- Eligibility: International students with strong academic records applying to full-time programmes
- Application: Automatically assessed upon application; no separate form required
Early Payment Discount
International students who pay their full tuition fees prior to enrolment and are not in receipt of other scholarships can benefit from an additional discount on their fees.
- Award Value: GBP 500 discount on tuition fees
- Eligibility: International students paying fees in full before enrolment
- Additional Support: 20% alumni discount available for graduates continuing to postgraduate study
Campus & Facilities
Campus & Facilities
The University of Northampton's GBP 330 million Waterside Campus opened in 2018, transforming 25 hectares of former industrial riverside land into a modern, purpose-built university environment. Located just a five-minute walk from Northampton town centre, the campus integrates academic, residential, and social spaces along the banks of the River Nene.
The largest building on campus, housing the 24/7 library, study areas, teaching spaces, student administration, and catering facilities across four floors.
Home to TV studios, fashion studios, computing labs, 3D printing workshops, and printmaking facilities supporting the Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology.
Purpose-built student residences offering a mix of townhouses and cluster flat accommodation with landscaped courtyards, on-site amenities, and 24-hour security.
Housing & Dining
Accommodation Options
The university offers over 2,250 beds across on-campus halls and off-campus residences, with 100% accommodation guaranteed for international students who apply by the July deadline.
- Ensuite rooms in halls such as St John's, Scholars Green, and Waterside Village
- Shared townhouses and cluster flats with furnished rooms and all utilities included
- Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchens, laundry facilities, and 24-hour security across all residences
Dining & Campus Amenities
The Waterside Campus features multiple dining options and essential services integrated into the academic and residential buildings.
- The Engine Shed cafe and food outlet operated by the Students' Union
- On-campus convenience store, health centre, and multi-faith chaplaincy
- Gym and leisure facilities with discounted access for all students
Student Life at the University of Northampton
Student Life at the University of Northampton
Student life at the University of Northampton is vibrant and inclusive, centred around the modern Waterside Campus and an active Students' Union. With free membership to all sports clubs and societies, students enjoy a wide range of extracurricular activities alongside their studies.
Northampton: Location & City Guide
Northampton: Location & City Guide
Life in Northampton
Northampton is a historic market town in Northamptonshire, known as the Rose of the Shires, featuring rolling landscapes, castles, and canals. With Leicester Square in central London just 90 minutes away by train and excellent road connections to Birmingham, Milton Keynes, and Leicester, Northampton offers an affordable and well-connected base for university life.
Central England Location
Northampton sits in the heart of England with direct rail services to London Euston in approximately 60 minutes and easy access to five major international airports.
Affordable Cost of Living
Compared to London and other major UK cities, Northampton offers significantly lower living costs for accommodation, food, and entertainment, making it an attractive choice for students.
Culture & Heritage
The town boasts the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery with one of the world's largest footwear collections, the Royal and Derngate theatre complex, and 78 Derngate — the only English house designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Green Spaces & Nature
The Waterside Campus is set along the River Nene with scenic walking and cycling routes, while nearby Beckets Park and the Racecourse provide expansive green spaces for recreation.
Career Outcomes & Alumni
Career Outcomes & Alumni
Where Northampton Graduates Work
Practical Information for Students
Practical Information for Students
For International Students
The university issues a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) once your offer is unconditional and your tuition fee deposit has been received. Dedicated advisors help with Student Route visa applications and compliance.
Free airport pickup is available from Heathrow or Birmingham airports when booked at least two weeks in advance. Orientation events help new international students settle in quickly.
The university provides comprehensive support including academic guidance, mental and physical health services, disability support through the ASSIST team, and the Student Futures employability service.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Northampton: Worldwide Rankings
University of Northampton: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Northampton has been steadily building its reputation across national and international ranking systems. It is particularly recognised for its social impact, with strong performance in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings for efforts to promote equality and sustainability.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Health Professions | Complete University Guide | Top 3 in UK |
| Psychology | EduRank | #107 in UK |
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #102 in UK |
| THE Impact Rankings | Times Higher Education | Top 50 Worldwide |
Features
The University of Northampton is a public university, formally established in 2005, with roots tracing back to 1975. It hosts around 10–17k students, including about 5.6k postgraduates, and features a diverse community with roughly 38% international students. The graduate employment rate is exceptionally strong (≈ 95% within 15 months), while the faculty comprises ~1,091 academic staff. In global rankings, it falls within the THE 1201–1500 and QS 1001–1200 bands.
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
University Drive\nNorthampton\nNN1 5PH\nUnited Kingdom
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