10 of the Best UK Universities by the Sea
If you do like to be beside the seaside and have dreams of lying on a sunny (or not-so sunny) beach whilst studying, check out our selection of 10 of the best UK universities by the sea (in no particular order)…
1. University of Aberdeen
Founded in 1495, the University of Aberdeen in north-east Scotland is ranked joint 137th in the QS World University Rankings® 2015/16. It has a large international community of around 14,500 students from 120 different countries. The university has an excellent reputation for teaching quality and research, while over the years, four Nobel Prizes have been awarded for work carried out or begun at Aberdeen. The university’s Marischal College building is one of the most iconic in the city, which also boasts a long sandy beach and a popular coastal trail for walkers.
2. Bournemouth University
A relatively new university, founded in 1992, Bournemouth University is located on the south coast of the UK, less than two hours from London. The university is particularly renowned for its media courses and programs dedicated to niche subjects such as food marketing and forensic archaeology. Students at Bournemouth University will get to enjoy a blend of a traditional British seaside resort with a busy and thriving town. The town is close to several areas of natural beauty and interest, including the New Forest and the Jurassic Coast, making it easy to take a peaceful break when you want to get away from it all.
3. Aberystwyth University
Founded in 1872, Aberystwyth University is known for having established the world’s first official department for international politics in 1919, following World War I. Nestled on the west coast of Wales, looking straight out at the Irish Sea, the town is small but lively, thanks to its student population and good social and music scenes. It’s beautifully presented, with a Victorian promenade and a shingle beach. Magnificent views from the top of Constitution Hill can be enjoyed either on foot or by taking the Victorian funicular railway, one of the longest of its kind in the British Isles. Currently in the 501-550 range of the QS World University Rankings, Aberystwyth has also been ranked among the safest UK universities.
4. Ulster University
Large, diverse and modern, Ulster University has four campuses throughout Northern Ireland and two new campuses in England. The university has ambitious development plans, notably the expansion of the Belfast City campus, due to open in 2018. Coleraine, the university's administrative headquarters, has an excellent selection of local beaches, coastline and hills, providing great opportunities to get outside and explore. Jordanstown also features a beach and seafront park area known as Loughshore Park, which hosts various events throughout the year. Ulster University is currently in the 551-600 range of the world rankings, and has one of the highest further study or employment rates in the UK.
5. University of St Andrews
Currently ranked 68th in the world, the University of St Andrews is Scotland’s oldest university, and also the third oldest in the UK. It is also one of the most prestigious and historic UK universities, as well as claiming one of the most attractive settings. Its elegant, ivy-clad buildings and delightful courtyards have seen a procession of famous alumni, including Prince William. St Andrews has two fantastic beaches, East Sands and West Sands, with the latter offering almost two miles of uninterrupted sand, backed with dunes and the town’s world-famous golf course.
6. University of Essex
The University of Essex in south east England is currently ranked joint 303rd in the world and consists of three campuses (Colchester, Loughton and Southend-on-Sea) making up a supportive and diverse community, with a strong and innovative global outlook. Those studying at Southend will enjoy an attractive seaside resort town with a growing campus which is the location for the university’s Business School, Acting School and Departments of Health and Human Sciences and Psychoanalytic Studies. The town lays claim to having the longest pleasure pier in the world, stretching some 1.33 miles (2.14 km) from the shore.
7. University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a historic, cosmopolitan and culture-packed city that offers a unique living and learning experience. The University of Edinburgh, founded in 1582, is currently ranked 21st in the world, with famous alumni including Charles Darwin, Alexander Graham Bell and three UK prime ministers. There are several long sandy beaches, while the city’s skyline is dominated by a striking medieval castle dating back to the 12th century. Edinburgh is well known for its annual Fringe Festival, the world's largest arts festival, while you may also fancy visiting the extinct volcano Arthur’s Seat.
8. University of Southampton
The University of Southampton, currently ranked 81st in the world, is located in a friendly and diverse city on the south coast of England, with the region enjoying the UK's mildest climate. Southampton is a research intensive university and a founding member of the Russell Group of elite UK universities. It offers a thriving and diverse international community, welcoming thousands of EU and international students. Bournemouth, with its extensive beach, is just a short journey away, while the Ocean Village Marina provides plenty of things to see and do, including many restaurants and bars, two cinemas, great sailing facilities and lovely views.
9. Cardiff University
With a global ranking of 122nd, Cardiff University is based in the vibrant Welsh capital, on the south coast of Wales. Cardiff has an international community of students from over 100 different countries, and takes part in worldwide collaborations. The city offers easy access to nearby beaches such as Penarth, and there are plenty of things to do, with many attractions at Cardiff Bay. Sports fans will feel right at home in Cardiff, with extensive sports facilities at the university and major sporting venues such as the Millennium Stadium.
10. Brighton
Located on the south coast of England, Brighton is the most popular UK seaside destination for overseas tourists. The University of Brighton has an international community of students from more than 150 different countries, and has invested over £100 million (US$155 million) over the past decade to give students innovative facilities. The city is known for its diverse community and culture, including a large LGBT population and a large music and arts scene. The Brighton Marina is also bursting with things to do, so you’ll never be bored outside of studying hours.
This blog post was originally published in August 2015. It was updated in July 2016, to incorporate the latest rankings information.
0 comments:
Post a Comment
Don't Forget to Share and Comment