News and insights

Student Blog | Three years done

Writing this blog, I can now say I am officially finished! Three years of university have been and gone, just like that.

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Student Blog | Preparations for going to uni

So it’s that time of year – results day is almost upon us, the gate to ‘clearing’ will soon be closing in and there are lots of students in the same boat. What am I talking about? Starting university in…

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Student Blog | Opportunities to make the most of

Many courses at University College Birmingham include a work placement – from a day to a year – and it is integral to the learning process and preparing for the world of work.

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Blog | Unlocking apprenticeship success with employers

National Apprenticeship Week celebrates the achievements of apprentices around the UK. Our Interim Director of Apprenticeships, Samantha King, has written here about how employers can maximise their success from apprenticeships by working with training providers such as University College Birmingham.…

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Blog | How to stay healthy in Veganuary

Stephen Garvey, Deputy Dean (Teaching, Learning and Digital) and Carla Phillips, Head of Health, discuss top tips for ensuring you are taking care of your body and maximising your nutrition when adopting a new diet.

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Blog | Explainer: What is a top-up degree?

You might have heard the term ‘top-up degree' a lot without knowing quite what it is. How does it differ from a regular degree? Is it the right course for you? This blog will have the answer to all your…

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Blog | National Apprenticeship Week spotlight – Kennedy Bowman

For National Apprenticeship Week, we’re putting the spotlight on some of our incredible apprentices like Kennedy Bowman, a Senior Nurse now on her Level 3 Team Leader/Supervisor apprenticeship to boost her all-round knowledge and support for patients.

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Blog | Bridging the gap: a new approach to nursing apprentices

Learn how University College Birmingham’s blended nursing apprenticeship model supports national provision - offering remote university learning, strategic employer partnerships, diverse placement opportunities and a healthcare workforce-development approach designed to address post‑pandemic nurse shortages.

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Blog | Our top 10 news stories of 2024

In 2024, our students and staff have been busy winning awards, launching community initiatives, working with experts, you name it, while our graduates have been out making their mark on the world. Read our bumper roundup.

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Blog | Our top 10 news stories of 2023

In 2023, students and alumni won even more awards and even topped a Good Food Guide list, while our Restaurant at Birmingham College of Food made it big on the map of places to eat out in the region. Read…

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Blog | Our 7 top tips for exam preparation

Exams just around the corner? Feeling anxious, or like you’re not sure how to prepare? Don’t worry! Our top tips will help you navigate this stressful time and pass with flying colours.

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Blog | How to pursue a career in healthcare without a degree

Did you know you don’t always need a degree to work in healthcare?

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Student Blog | Having your plate and eating it

There is so much more to uni life than essays, lectures and clubbing. Yes, I am talking (again) about those little nuggets of opportunities that may just pass you by if you are not careful.

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Student Blog | Who's going to lift the trophy?

World Cup 2022 is finally here! Is it coming home? The question everyone’s asking is… who’s going to lift the trophy?

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Student Blog | Top five anime of 2022

As the year is approaching its end, we are able to look back on the anime industry’s most significant achievements, from its truly unique storytelling that never fails to captivate the viewers with its use of beautiful, dark and humorous…

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Student Blog | The weird and wonderful traditions of Christmas

Today I want to share with you a few of the many weird and wonderful Christmas traditions around the world…

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Student Blog | Drinks to try over the holidays

The holidays are here, and it's time to get in the merry spirit! What a year it has been, so let’s relax, sit back and pour ourselves a drink.

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Blog | Career and placement opportunities with University College Birmingham

With many businesses citing a lack of real-world experience as one of their biggest challenges when trying to recruit, work placements offer students a powerful opportunity to get ahead.

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Student Blog | The 12-day Christmas pleigh-list

From the pounding of Wham! to the sweet whistling notes of Mariah Carey, we are going to countdown The 12-Day Christmas Pleigh-list.

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Blog | Getting around Brum: a student travel guide

Wherever you're heading, our central location means it couldn’t be easier to make your way around Birmingham and the wider region.

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Blog | Being an LGBTQ+ student celebrating the beautiful month of Pride

The purpose of this blog is to celebrate Pride Month and share my experiences as a member of the LGBTQ+ community here at the University.

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Blog | OJ vs Coca Cola: a dietitian's response

Confused by conflicting advice on healthy food and drinks? Megan Bridger, Lecturer in Dietetics at University College Birmingham, takes a look at the most recent controversy: is coca-cola a healthier choice than the humble glass of orange juice?

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Blog | Nursing Associate vs Registered Nurse: choosing the right path for you

Not sure which nursing course is for you? This blog will help you to find out which role fits your goals, lifestyle and future plans.

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Student Blog | Considering university Clearing? Here's my story...

Samantha joined us through Clearing and knows exactly what it's like on results day. In this throwback blog first published just before she started her second year, she shared some insight into what it was like...

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Blog | What is the difference between a foundation year and a foundation degree?

You may have heard of foundation years and foundation degrees and wondered what the difference really is. In this blog, we look at both to help you decide whether a foundation degree is right for you.

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Student Blog | Eight things you can do in Birmingham for free

Winter, spring, summer or autumn, there's always plenty of things to do around Birmingham without having to pay a penny. In this throwback blog first published in Autumn 2021, our blogger Nadia shares some of the great things you can…

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Blog | National Apprenticeship Week spotlight – David Sanchez Heredia

For National Apprenticeship Week, our second spotlight is on David Sanchez Heredia. David absolutely loves his role as a mental health nurse, and has been able to work, receive on-the-job training and study at the same time thanks to his…

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Blog | The 9 things we wish we knew before starting university

From staying organised to looking after our wellbeing, there’s a lot we wish we’d thought about before starting our degrees, so we’ve put together a list of the most important bits of advice.

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Blog | Coping with exam stress: Our top tips for tackling test anxiety

As you race towards the finish line of the academic year, sometimes exams can look like a big final hurdle. Here are some top tips for students on coping with the stress of exams and tests.

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Blog | Redefining weight stigma: Let’s talk about obesity

Dietetics (Pre-Registration) MSc students Emmanuele Adjekum and Anja Pätzold discuss the complexity of obesity and stigma in the UK, exploring the impact and need for a positive change within our society.

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Student Blog | Accommodation tips from a final year student

If you are joining University College Birmingham in September and still haven’t sorted out your accommodation for the year, keep on reading...

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Student Blog | What to pack when moving into uni halls

It’s that time of year when uni students are getting ready and packing to move into halls. I’ve made a list of some things I bought that I definitely couldn’t have lived without, but I’ve also made a list of…

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Blog | Why working part-time along study pays off

A great deal of our students, from college students to those at higher education level, work part-time alongside their studies.

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Blog | What support is there if I’m struggling with my mental health?

Having really good mental health support from your university is absolutely vital and you should never feel you’re alone in what you are going through. Student wellbeing is paramount to us and we provide a wide range of award-winning support…

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Blog | Black History Month Spotlight – Celebrating Ruth Bizirhi

Our next spotlight this Black History Month is on Ruth Bizirhi, an alumni of the Department of Creative Services and the first cohort of the Creative Futures Incubator. Since graduating, Ruth has turned her lifelong passion for hair and make-up…

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Sustainability blog | How we are playing our part in climate action

According to research, 89% of students want their place of study to actively incorporate and promote sustainable development. Find out more about our sustainability strategy at University College Birmingham.

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Blog l Do you really need to print? Tips to be more IT-savvy

Technology is no longer something on the edge of our lives, but an integral part of everything we do.

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Blog | Black History Month Spotlight – Celebrating Jen Ellin

Since graduating as a mature student, Jen now runs Jen's Tailored Events, with plans to provide opportunities for young people with difficulties in their life the chance to learn and develop new business and entrepreneurial skills, inspired in part by…

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Blog | Parent guide to Clearing and how you can support your child

If your child hasn’t applied to university yet, but wants to go in September 2025, Clearing is their second chance to secure a place for this year. Read more on how you can support them.

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Blog | Student life on a budget: how to make your money go further

Life as a student on a shoestring budget is tough at the best of times, but we’ve put together some tips to help you squeeze the best value out of every last penny.

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Blog | What’s great about having a Warwick accredited degree?

At present, the University of Warwick is accrediting over 30 courses that can be studied full-time and part-time. These cover a wide variety of subjects, including aviation, business, food, marketing, early years, events, finance and sport.

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Guest Blog | How can I get tax-free university fees for my child?

As we head closer to the start of the new academic year, many soon-to-be university students are getting ready to move away from home for the first time and embark on the next step in their educational careers.

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Student Blog | What I wish I'd known before starting my degree

I don’t know about everyone else but when I started university, I was oblivious in pretty much every aspect of my life!

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Blog | Can I go through Clearing if I change my mind on my course?

There are many good reasons you might choose to access a course through the Clearing system, so don’t think of it as second best or a last resort; think of it more as a reset button when circumstances change.

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Blog | Festive feasting made easy: top turkey roasting and wine pairing tips from our experts

If you’re feeling the pressure to cook the perfect roast turkey this Christmas, or select wines that will wow your guests, then our Chef Lecturers at University College Birmingham are on hand to help.

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Jessica is a winner at the National UK Blog Awards

Culinary Arts Management student Jessica Simmons has won a National UK Blog Awards trophy (Food and Drink category) for her blog Nourishing Jessica.

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Blog | Seven reasons to come to a uni open day

They say buying a house is the biggest investment you will make, but a university education is not far behind these days.

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Blog | Struggling with the cost of living? Our top tips

Let’s face it, we all need to make our money go a lot further these days, from heating bills to rising food prices and transport costs to, well, the bare essentials.

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Student Blog | Applicant Days v Open Days – what’s the difference?

Some students think that because they have been to an open day, they won’t bother going to an applicant day. Find out why you should.

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Student Blog | Five films that inspire and motivate you to study

Sometimes you are just in need of something to relight your fire and drive. Here are some films that show us what ambition, motivation and perseverance can achieve.

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International Women's Day spotlight – Charlie Hobbis

Events Management alumni Charlie Hobbis talks us through her journey as a female entrepreneur, and turning a home interior and lifestyle page turned into a multi-6 figure business with well-known household clients like Tefal, Snug Sofas and Marks & Spencer.

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International Women's Day spotlight – Paulina Marmaite

Aesthetic Practitioner alumni Paulina Marmaite talks about opening her aesthetics clinic one year on and how her mum, a strong businesswoman, influenced her career.

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The UCB experience for Indian students | UCBloggers | University College Birmingham

If you are like me, who has travelled (or plans to travel) to the UK to study a master’s either in culinary arts or hospitality and tourism at University College Birmingham, let me tell you that you are at the…

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Business Enterprise student Taylor combines studying with stardom

UCB Business Enterprise student Taylor Francis has built a highly successful fashion and beauty blog, attracting attention and sponsorship from some of the UK’s biggest brands.

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News and Insights

Discover the latest news, insights, blogs and opinions from across the University.

News and insights

Mondelēz is choc-a-bloc with opportunities for bakery students

Professional Bakery students channelled their inner chocolatier during a visit from global snacking powerhouse Mondelēz International.

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Introducing the new team of UCBloggers

The university has a new team of student bloggers starting today and they are ready to share their UCB study experience with the world.

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The blogosphere needs you! UCB is recruiting for a top team of bloggers

The University is launching a search to find a team of enthusiastic bloggers to inspire potential students – and help them settle in once they have joined UCB.

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Calling all budding writers, photographers, Instagrammers and all round social media addicts

Would you love a part-time job, but feel too busy to commit to regular shifts every week? Looking for a way to impress future employers and make the most of your digital skills

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Placement life's a peach for students Emma and Hannah

Culinary Arts Management students Emma Davies and Hannah Smith chose an unconventional route when it came to their placement year, opting away from the traditional restaurant scene in favour of respected gastropub company Peach Pubs.

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Calling all writers, photographers and social media fanatics: Join our blogging team!

Do you enjoy writing? Love taking photos or sharing snaps on Instagram? Looking for an opportunity to boost your CV and showcase your digital skills to future employers? Then we want to hear from you!

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Have you got what it takes to be a UCBlogger?

If you're an aspiring writer who enjoys using social media and knows how to create great content, including photos and videos, we need to hear from you.

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Calling all budding writers and photographers: Become a member of our blogging team!

Are you a keen writer? Do you love taking and sharing photos? Looking for ways to use your digital skills to boost your CV and show future employers what you can do? Then this could be the perfect opportunity for…

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Duo share showstoppers with professional bakers as ambassadors for global supplier

A duo of Bakery and Patisserie Technology undergraduates will get to share their own showstoppers and ideas with the world’s professional bakers after being selected as this year’s student ambassadors for global supplier Dawn Foods.

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International blogging sensation set for bakery degree at UCB

International blogging sensation Marko Josipovic is all set to make his mark on Birmingham. The Croatian teenager is about to start his BSc (Hons) Bakery and Patisserie Technology at UCB and plans to update the many followers of his site…

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Sandra perfects 'The Art of Pastry'

BSc Food and Consumer Management student Sandra Sentjurin, from Estonia, has published her new cookbook 'Magusakunst' (translated as 'The Art of Pastry).

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Graduate Leo crowned hospitality hero for supporting next generation of chefs

A University College Birmingham graduate has received a special award from the hospitality industry in recognition of his charity work and support for the next generation of young chefs.

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Student Daniel invited to exclusive meal at Heston Blumenthal's Fat Duck restaurant

Third-year Hospitality Business Management student Daniel Bennett had the experience of a lifetime at Heston Blumenthal’s three Michelin star Fat Duck restaurant after being chosen from over 800 applicants to attend a free-of-charge ‘Inspiration Lunch’ dedicated exclusively to restaurant staff.

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UCB outreach officer up for top events management award

A UCB outreach officer whose events management skills have helped over a thousand pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds access higher education is up for a top award.

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Katie's e-book challenge

First year BA Event Management student Katie Goyen has had her work published in an e-book by PR students.

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Specialist Hair and Media Make-up newsletter: Issue 2

We are excited to let you know about various activities, projects, talks and events that you can get involved with as a University College Birmingham alumni.

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College open day with star speakers inspires teens…and Joan Collins

College open day with star speakers inspires teens…and Joan Collins Hundreds of teenagers braved the snow to hear from guest speakers at UCB’s All Stars Open Day last Saturday, with even Dame Joan Collins giving the event a social media…

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Vaishnavi flies flag for bakery innovation as Dawn Foods junior product developer

A bakery and patisserie graduate who rose to the occasion as a student ambassador for one of the industry’s top global manufacturers and ingredients suppliers has been taken on by the company as a junior product developer.

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New centres for innovation offer support for small businesses to upskill

A £100 million investment from the Innovation Accelerator programme will see a new innovation hub launched at University College Birmingham. The hub supports manufacturing and construction businesses in getting up to speed with new technology adoption.

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First cohort of Nursing Associate apprentices celebrate completion

The first group of Nursing Associate FdSc apprentices have finished their programme, celebrating with lecturers and employer partners. The apprenticeship was first introduced in the healthcare sector to boost the capacity of the nursing workforce and bridge the gap between…

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Malvern Hills: where student insight meets industry impact

Students boast destination tourism success.

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UCB is National Hairdressing Federation College of the Year

UCB has been awarded the prestigious title of College of the Year by the National Hairdressers' Federation Awards 2014 (Central England).

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New apprenticeship to help close glaring gap in patient services provision

An innovative new foundation degree apprenticeship built around a diverse “circuit” of placements in everything from mental health support for adolescents to working with prisoners has been given the green light to help close the gap in the region's patient…

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Nursing associate apprenticeship offers specialist skills boost for health sector

A new apprenticeship programme at University College Birmingham is set to provide a boost for the health sector by developing skills for specialist areas of the nursing profession.

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MasterChef champion and entrepreneurial ex-student share stories with trainee chefs

A former MasterChef champion and an entrepreneurial College of Food alumna came onto campus to share their experiences with future chefs studying at University College Birmingham.

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Students get top tips and advice for getting ahead in the jobs market

A UCB graduate who runs Europe’s biggest online cooking community told students he uses the skills he learned at university “every single day.”

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Budding beauty students breeze through Saturday Academy

Dozens of Year 11 students have graduated with flying colours from a Saturday Academy devoted to all things hair and make-up at UCB.

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Travel conference flies high with esteemed speaker Simon Calder

The ninth annual ITT Future You conference was packed with enthusiastic students, all keen to take in knowledge and insights from a stellar list of travel, tourism and hospitality experts.

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Accelerated apprenticeship to turn nursing associates into full practitioners

A brand new accelerated degree apprenticeship to train nursing associates working everywhere from emergency wards to prisons into full clinical practitioners has been launched to alleviate the pressure on healthcare teams across the region and UK.

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University College Birmingham awarded £900,000 capital funding investment

OfS funding will fuel projects designed to enhance our student experience.

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UCB wins award for industry engagement

UCB have won an award for partnership between education and industry for their collaboration with Mitchells & Butlers at the PACE (Professional Association for Catering Education) and People 1st Learning and Development Forum 2014.

Other

British Psychological Society accreditation

Our undergraduate and postgraduate psychology degree courses are accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).

Other

Schools

University College Birmingham comprises of four schools, which are responsible for delivering courses to students at all levels of study.

Other

LGBTQ+

LGBTQ+ individuals are a vital part of our university community. Inclusion is central to our identity, and every student and staff member should feel safe, respected, and supported in being themselves.

Other

Apprenticeships for students

Run with valued industry partners, our diverse apprenticeships offer superb opportunities for young people aged 16 and over to learn skills for life while getting paid.

Other

Lecturer

Emma Davis