Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes University is one of the UK’s leading modern universities, combining a rich heritage with a forward-thinking approach to education. With over 150 years of history, the institution began as a small School of Art operating in borrowed teaching spaces and has evolved into a globally recognised university known for teaching and research excellence. Officially established as a university in 1992, it continues to strengthen its reputation at local, national, and international levels. Located in the historic city of Oxford, a world-renowned centre of learning and culture, the University offers an inspiring academic environment. It provides a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes designed to equip students with practical skills, industry knowledge, and real-world experience. Strong links with business and industry ensure that graduates are well-prepared for successful careers. Oxford Brookes is home to a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming over 18,000 students, including 3800 international students from over 150 countries. This global outlook enhances cultural exchange and broadens perspectives, creating a supportive environment for both domestic and international students. The University is also recognised for its commitment to sustainability, consistently ranking among the greenest universities in the UK. Research excellence is a key strength. According to the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), 97% of its research is internationally recognised or higher, with 70% rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. This reflects the University’s strong focus on innovation and global impact. The academic structure includes 12 schools within two faculties: the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, and the Faculty of Health, Science and Technology. This structure supports interdisciplinary collaboration, academic development, and knowledge transfer. Significant investment in campus facilities has resulted in award-winning learning environments, enhancing the overall student experience. High student satisfaction is driven by dedicated academics, innovative teaching methods, and opportunities for co-curricular engagement. As a member of the University Alliance, Oxford Brookes plays a vital role in driving innovation and developing the workforce of the future. Its graduates benefit from strong connections, practical experience, and a commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Oxford Brookes University offers a comprehensive range of student services designed to support academic success, personal development, and career readiness. These services are structured to ensure that every student, whether domestic or international, receives the guidance and resources needed throughout their university journey. A key highlight is the International Student Advice Team (ISAT), which provides confidential and professional support on visa and immigration matters, employment regulations, and personal concerns. The team also organises workshops and events to help students understand UK culture, build social connections, and settle into university life. Upon arrival, international students benefit from an Arrival Weekend featuring campus tours and city orientation, ensuring a smooth transition into their new environment. Student Services at Oxford Brookes focuses on enhancing the overall academic experience by developing essential personal, academic, and professional skills. Support extends to counselling, inclusive services, student welfare, multifaith chaplaincy, and financial assistance, all contributing to a strong culture of wellbeing that promotes emotional, physical, and spiritual development. The Centre for Academic Development plays a vital role in academic support. It offers free one-to-one tutorials in study skills, mathematics, and statistics, alongside Academic English modules and workshops for non-native speakers. Through initiatives such as the Think Space programme, students gain access to workshops, study resources, and weekly drop-in sessions, all designed to improve confidence and academic performance. The Centre also integrates its services into course delivery, ensuring support aligns with specific learning outcomes. Career development is embedded throughout the student lifecycle. Student Development Services provide tailored support from the start of university through to graduation and beyond. The Careers team offers coaching, CV and cover letter guidance, job search support, and access to careers fairs, networking opportunities, and volunteering experiences. Importantly, these services remain available to graduates for up to three years after completing their studies. With a strong emphasis on employability, wellbeing, and academic achievement, Oxford Brookes University ensures that students are fully supported at every stage, empowering them to succeed both during their studies and in their future careers.

Oxford Brookes University has established a strong position in national and global rankings, reflecting its consistent performance in teaching quality, research excellence, sustainability, and graduate outcomes. These rankings provide clear evidence of the University’s reputation as one of the UK’s leading modern institutions. In global rankings, Oxford Brookes is placed in the top 25% of universities worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2026, securing 374th position out of 1,501 institutions. It is also ranked within the 801–1000 band in the World University Rankings 2026 and #1117 in Best Global Universities. These placements highlight its growing international presence and academic credibility. Within the UK, the University continues to perform strongly across major league tables. It is ranked 48th in the Complete University Guide 2026, 56th in the Guardian University Guide 2026, and 69th in The Times and The Sunday Times University Guide 2026. Notably, Oxford Brookes improved to 38th out of 122 universities in the Guardian University Guide 2025, demonstrating significant upward movement. It is also recognised as one of the UK’s top 50 institutions in the Complete University Guide 2025 and among the top 10 universities in South East England in the Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024. The University is particularly distinguished for teaching excellence, ranking 6th in the UK in the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024. Subject-level performance is equally impressive, with Oxford Brookes featured among the world’s top universities in 21 subject areas in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024. Graduate outcomes further reinforce its strong standing. According to the HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22, 87% of full-time undergraduate students are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. Additionally, 97% of research conducted at the University is internationally recognised, as reported in the Research Excellence Framework 2021. Oxford Brookes also leads in sustainability and innovation. It was the world’s first Fairtrade university in 2003 and has achieved a 55% reduction in carbon emissions since 2010. With continued investment of £230 million in campus development and facilities, the University maintains its reputation for excellence, employability, and forward-thinking education.

Oxford Brookes University offers a vibrant and well-rounded student life, combining academic excellence with a rich social, cultural, and recreational experience. Set in the historic and dynamic city of Oxford, the University provides an environment where students can thrive both personally and academically. Oxford is a unique student city, blending centuries of history with a modern, youthful atmosphere. As a global hub for research, technology, science, and motorsports, it offers students the opportunity to live and learn in a thriving knowledge economy. The city is filled with museums, galleries, and iconic landmarks, creating a constant source of inspiration. Students can explore world-famous attractions such as the Ashmolean Museum, Modern Art Oxford, and the Natural History Museum, all of which offer free entry and access to globally significant collections. Student life extends beyond academics with a wide range of social and leisure opportunities. Cowley Road stands out as a lively and diverse destination, featuring restaurants, music venues, cafes, and independent shops. Popular venues such as the O2 Academy Oxford host live performances and student events, ensuring an active nightlife. For a more relaxed experience, students can enjoy green spaces like South Park and Headington Hill Park, perfect for socialising or unwinding. The University campuses are designed to support a thriving student community. Headington Campus, the largest site, offers modern facilities and easy access to the city centre, while Harcourt Hill and Swindon campuses provide specialised learning environments. Efficient transport options, including subsidised bus passes, cycling routes, and walkable distances, make getting around convenient and sustainable. Students automatically become members of the Brookes Union, which plays a central role in campus life. Run by students, it represents student voices, organises Fresher’s Week, and supports over 100 societies, ensuring there are activities for every interest. Whether students prefer a quiet lifestyle or an active social scene, there are countless opportunities to get involved. Sport and wellbeing are also key aspects of student life. Brookes Sport and Active Wellness provide access to gyms, fitness classes, climbing facilities, and competitive sports through TEAMBrookes. These initiatives encourage students to stay active, build friendships, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Music and the arts are integral to the University experience, with choirs, orchestras, jazz bands, and student-led societies offering creative outlets. From punting along the River Cherwell to exploring historic streets and vibrant cultural venues, student life at Oxford Brookes is diverse, engaging, and truly enriching.

Oxford Brookes University offers a wide range of high-quality accommodation options designed to support students’ comfort, safety, and academic success. Whether you are a new or returning full-time student, the University provides flexible living arrangements in halls of residence and shared housing, ensuring a smooth transition into university life. A key advantage for international students is the guarantee of accommodation in their first year. Students can choose from modern flats or traditional halls of residence, with options for both self-catered and catered living. All rooms are fully furnished and equipped with essential facilities, and utility costs are included, allowing students to manage their budgets with confidence. Additionally, some rooms are specially designed to support students with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive living environment. Oxford Brookes’ accommodation services comply with the Student Accommodation Code of Practice, reflecting high standards of management, safety, and quality. Students can select from a variety of halls based on location, budget, and personal preferences. For example, Canterbury House, located on Cowley Road approximately 1.5 miles from Headington Campus, offers 77 en-suite study bedrooms with a 50-week contract. Parade Green, another popular option, provides 887 en-suite rooms with a 38-week contract and is also situated 1.5 miles from the main campus. University-managed halls offer even more choice. New Clive Booth, just 0.5 miles from Headington Campus, includes 348 study bedrooms, while the larger Cheney Student Village, located next to the campus, offers 750 rooms. Additional options such as Clive Booth Student Village, Crescent Hall, Paul Kent Hall, and Warneford Hall provide a variety of room types and locations, ensuring students can find accommodation that suits their needs. For postgraduate students, dedicated options like the Clive Booth Postgraduate Centre and Sinnet Court are available, alongside studio flats at Westminster Studios on Harcourt Hill Campus. Accommodation contracts typically begin in September, with varying durations depending on the hall. Students applying later in the year can access shorter contracts, subject to availability. The University also offers tailored accommodation options for specific courses, including Nursing, Midwifery, and Teacher Education. Beyond the first year, students can continue in university-managed housing or explore private accommodation with support from the Accommodation Office. With a strong focus on convenience, inclusivity, and student wellbeing, Oxford Brookes ensures that all students have access to safe, comfortable, and well-connected living spaces throughout their studies.