8/16/2019 Birmingham University
1/56
International Prospectus
Undergraduate and Postgraduate
2016 admissions
Inspiring
education since 1900
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
2/56
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
3/56
2016 Admissions
What can Birmingham offer you?
Your academic studies will be
challenging. We offer the highest quality
academic experience and expect you
to excel. You will be an active part of
a leading academic community whereoriginality, independent thought and
enquiry are not only encouraged but
expected. You will be studying and
working alongside academics who
are global experts in their fields. Our
outstanding and responsive support
services, many designed exclusively for
international students, will be actively
available to you right from the start of
your transition to university life, until
the end of your degree.
Your Birmingham experience will
prepare you for life as an active member
of a global society by transforming your
prospects in a competitive employment
market. From the outset of your studies,we will provide opportunities for
international exchange, mentoring
support from our outstanding graduates,
career skills development, community
volunteering and leadership skills. You
will graduate from Birmingham prepared
for the changing economic landscape
of the 21st century.
You will be a part of a diverse community
located in an inspirational campus setting,
with access to one of the most vibrant,
multicultural cities in the UK on your
doorstep. The world-class facilities, richcultural assets and wealth of sporting
opportunities will support and enhance
your learning experience. You will
relish your time at Birmingham, and the
friendships you make and the experiences
you share will shape your future.
An elite academic
experience at a university
that pushes the boundaries
of knowledge
Life-changing opportunities
that will prepare you
for success
An outstanding learning
environment in a global city
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
4/56
International Prospectus
WE KNOW THAT YOUR TIME AT UNIVERSITY IS
PRECIOUS. OUR MISSION IS TO HELP YOU TO
FULFIL YOUR POTENTIAL BY MAKING THE MOST
OF EVERY OPPORTUNITY.
A warm welcome
At almost 100 metres
the University clock
tower, known as
‘Old Joe’, is the tallest
freestanding clock
tower in the world
The University motto
per ardua ad alta
translates as ‘through
efforts to high
achievements’
university, Birmingham is truly a unique
experience for international students.
The reputation of a great university
depends not only upon the quality of
education, but on the quality of research.
The results of the Research Excellence
Framework (REF) 2014 confirmed our
position amongst a handful of institutions
that can demonstrate world-leading or
internationally renowned research across
such a broad range of subjects.
We are committed to investing in our
success and the University’s historic
campus is undergoing one of the
most exciting and transformational
redevelopments since its original buildings
were completed in 1909. As a student
here you will benefit from a new library
incorporating the latest IT learning
technology, a new sports centre with
50-metre pool, and exceptional new
student accommodation.
We are proud to have been welcoming
international students to our beautifulEdgbaston campus for over 100 years.
They are a central part of our community,
bringing global experience, new ideas and
an international outlook, which contribute
to the academic and social richness of
our global University.
At Birmingham we encourage bold,
independent thinking and provide
exceptional academic programmes that
will stretch and challenge you. One of
our strengths lies in understanding that
every student is an individual with a
unique learning style. For this reason
you will benefit from enhanced personal
tutoring alongside the latest learning
facilities and new technologies, such
as our virtual learning environment.
With outstanding academics, compelling
academic programmes, and a rich range
of intellectual and cultural experiences
in England’s most broadly based
As you think about your future career, you
can be confident in the knowledge thatBirmingham graduates are highly sought
by employers. We are fourth in the UK
league tables for graduate employability.
Our impressive international links will
ensure that you will have a wide range of
international opportunities available to you
and our Careers Network Service were
winners of the National Union of Students
and UKCISA Internationalisation Award
for Best Careers Support for International
Students 2014.
By choosing to study at Birmingham, you
choose to join a forward-thinking, leading
global university in a lively, multicultural
city, set in a beautiful leafy estate, widely
acknowledged as one of the world’s great
university campuses. You will build lifelong
friendships, and become part of a powerful
global network of Birmingham alumni.
We look forward to welcoming you to
campus, and to playing our part in yourfuture success.
Professor Sir David Eastwood
Vice-Chancellor
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
5/56
2016 Admissions
Contents
Welcome to the University
of Birmingham 6
Birmingham: excellence in teaching,
learning and research 8
The campus 10
The city of Birmingham 12
Student support 15
Funding your study 17
Scholarships and funding
opportunities 18
Your career 20Alumni – a relationship for life 23
Opportunities to study abroad 24
Virtual tour 26
Accommodation 28
Introduction to course listings 30
Flexible learning at Birmingham 31
Foundation pathways 32
Postgraduate pathways 34
Birmingham International
Summer School 35
Course listings 36
Entry requirements 45
How to apply 48
How to find out more 50
The small print – essential information
for all students 51
What next? 55
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
6/56
International Prospectus
With research and institutional
partners across the globe, we havestrengthened our connections with
permanent presences in India, China,
Nigeria, Belgium and Brazil. We also
have increasingly strong ties with
North America and Europe.
Birmingham is a traditional red-brick
university and a part of the Russell
Group, an association of 24 major
research-led universities and is also
a founding member of Universitas 21,
the leading global network of research-
intensive universities.
The UK’s latest Research Excellence
Framework (REF) in 2014 identified
more than 80% of all research carried
out at the University of Birmingham as
world leading or internationally excellent.
Welcome to theUniversity of Birmingham
We have welcomed international students
to our campus for over 100 years andnow have one of the largest international
student communities in the UK. As a
direct result, our alumni are based in over
190 countries, offering advice, mentoring
and activities within your home country
prior to and after your time at Birmingham.
Our 250-acre campus, listed in the top
ten most beautiful universities in Britain
by The Telegraph, provides outstanding
facilities and a welcoming environment
for students and visitors. Our campus-
based facilities are undergoing a major
£55 million redevelopment that will see a
new state-of-the-art sports centre house
the city of Birmingham’s first 50-metre
swimming pool, opening early in 2016.
Our location in the centre of the UK
also makes the University your ideal base
for exploring the UK and Europe outside
of your studies.
WE OFFER AN OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC
PORTFOLIO AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONAL
AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT, TO ENSURE YOU
GET THE MOST FROM STUDYING IN THE UK.
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
7/56
2016 Admissions
World rankings
UK rankings
We were ranked in the top five for the
following areas by the Guardian and
The Complete University Guide:
1. Drama and Dance
1. Hospitality, Leisure, Recreationand Tourism
2. American Studies
2. Sport Science
3. Chemical Engineering
3. Physics
4. Middle Eastern and African Studies
5. Computer Science and IT
5. History of Art, Architecture and Design
5. Politics
64 in 2014–15QS World University Rankings
148 Times Higher Education (THE)
60for post-qualificationemployability in 2014–15The New York Times
17The Guardian
15The Times and The Sunday
Times Good University Guide
17 The Complete University Guide
(published in The Independent)
in 2015
overall
in 2015
overall
in 2015
overall
in 2014–15
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
8/56
International Prospectus
Types of programme on offer
at Birmingham
o English language programmes
www.birmingham.ac.uk/
englishprogrammes
o Foundation programmes
www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundation
or see page 32
o Undergraduate programmes
www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate
o Postgraduate taught programmes
www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate
o Postgraduate combined research
and taught programmes
www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/
courses/postgraduate/combined
o Doctoral research programmes
www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/dr
or contact the Doctoral Researcher
Enquiry Service at
o Study Abroad
www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad
or see page 24
Birmingham: excellence in teaching,learning and research
We encourage you to become an
independent and self-motivated learner,meaning that you will be required to spend
your time outside of lectures reading around
your chosen subject, formulating your own
ideas. You will develop an enquiry-based
approach to learning, enabling you to
challenge ideas and put forward your own
opinions while taking control of your own
learning. You will also develop the skills that
employers are looking for: independence,
creativity, team working, problem solving
and time management.
Learning support
Studying at a higher level will bring its
challenges and we realise that it can be
daunting. To support you throughout your
learning we offer a comprehensive range
of support services:
o Each student is allocated a personal
tutor who will support them on
academic-related issues
o Your school or department will have
welfare tutors who can help you withacademic or welfare-related issues
o The International Students Advisory
Service (ISAS) can offer advice on
academic issues
o The free term-time English classes
and individual tuition offered by our
Birmingham International Academy
are invaluable if you need help with
your academic English
o Specialised support services are
available for students with disabilities
WE PROVIDE AN ENRICHING ENVIRONMENT FOR
YOU TO DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC AND PERSONAL
SKILLS. AS A BIRMINGHAM STUDENT YOU ARE
PART OF AN ACADEMIC ELITE, LEARNING FROM
WORLD-LEADING EXPERTS.
The different teaching methods
Lectures – academic experts willintroduce you to key facts and ideas
in your subject in challenging and
provocative ways, with mini activities
and pair work during the session,
and follow-up work after.
Seminars – present and discuss
your ideas in small groups and debate
interpretations with other students.
Tutorials – discuss your work and
assignments with your tutor, usually
in small groups.
Laboratory-based work – get practical
experience and apply the knowledge
from your lectures to a laboratory setting.
Learn to expertly analyse real-life
problems that will equip you with the
practical and analytical skills valued
by employers.
This mainly applies to courses in
science, technology and engineering.
Workshops – problem-solving sessions
facilitated by a member of academic
staff. These sessions usually involvestudents working in groups.
Self study – you will be expected to
research the subject matter of your
lectures through independent study
in your own time.
Peer-group learning – direct a lesson
or prepare a presentation with your
fellow classmates. By interacting with
the lesson material, you will remember
the content more effectively.
Our academic community is made
up of the brightest minds from
across the globe, with over 30%
of staff coming from outside the
UK, meaning that your learning has
international perspective.
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/englishprogrammeshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/englishprogrammeshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundationhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduatehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduatehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/combined/listing.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/combined/listing.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/drmailto:[email protected]://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroadhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroadmailto:[email protected]://www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/drhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/combined/listing.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/combined/listing.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduatehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduatehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundationhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/englishprogrammeshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/englishprogrammes
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
9/56
2016 Admissions
Our learning facilities
With the latest classroom technologies,
Birmingham offers an outstanding learning
experience. Outside lectures, the University
campus has excellent facilities for you to
meet up with classmates to debate,
research and learn.
Our Main Library is one of the UK’s largest
academic libraries, giving you access to
over 3 million books and periodicals.There are a further eight libraries and
resource centres across campus, based
in departments.
The student portal is an online gateway,
providing access to your University email
account, news, online communities and
e-library. This gives you access to over
16,000 electronic periodicals, databases
and websites to support your learning. Our
virtual learning environments include course
content, programme materials, assessment
and discussion boards.
Research at Birmingham
Birmingham is an internationally powerful
research-led university. As well as our
commitment to providing excellent teaching,
our academic staff are engaged in a wide
range of research projects that have
created massive impact across the
globe. Whether you choose to study
at undergraduate or postgraduate level,research at Birmingham gives you a distinct
advantage, as many of our academics are
global experts within their fields. Studying
within this stimulating community, your
programme will include the very latest
emerging theories and ideas.
Time travel
Our researchers are investigating the probability of time travel and in the process
are raising questions about physics, philosophy and the nature of reality. As part
of an international research programme involving universities in the USA, Australia,
Germany, the Netherlands and Turkey, Dr Nikk Effingham and Dr Alastair Wilson
from our Department of Philosophy are leading a project looking at whether we could
feasibly travel through time. The project is exploring paradoxes such as the ‘causal
loop’, in which time travellers would have no way of changing the course of time.
Discovery from the dawn
of the galaxy
Academics from our School of
Physics and Astronomy discovered
a solar system with five Earth-sized
planets, which date back to the dawn
of the galaxy. The research was
conducted using asteroseismology –
listening to the vibrations of the star
which allows researchers to measure
mass, age and diameter. They found
a sun-like star, Keplar-444, which
hosts five planets with sizes between
Mercury and Venus. Keplar-444 was
formed 11.2 billion years ago when
the Universe was less than 20%
of its current age, making it the oldest
known system of terrestrial-sized
planets in our galaxy!
Fighting childhood obesity in China
In a trailblazing public health
programme, academics from our
Medical School are working with
grandparents in China to tackle
the increasing problem of obesity
in children. Over 30 million children
in China are overweight or obese
and grandparents, often the main
carers in Chinese households, havea greater say in youngsters’ eating
behaviour and levels of physical
activity. Our academics are using
quizzes, interactive learning and
behavioural challenges to change
perceptions and encourage healthier
and more active lifestyles among the
young. 61,000 children at 43 primary
schools in Guangdong province
are currently involved in a project
that is hoped will eventually be
rolled out across China.
Here are just some of our most
recent research stories:
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
10/56
0 International Prospectus
The campus
OUR STUNNING CAMPUS, COMBINING TRADITIONAL
BUILDINGS AND STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES,
OFFERS AN INSPIRING BACKDROP TO YOUR
STUDIES – A PEACEFUL, THRIVING COMMUNITY
ON THE DOORSTEP OF ONE OF EUROPE’S MOST
DYNAMIC AND CULTURALLY DIVERSE CITIES.
Our beautiful green and leafy campus
located just a few miles from the citycentre and covering 250 acres is a
great environment in which to live and
study. It is also very safe with all buildings
equipped with CCTV and a dedicated
community police offer and security team
based on site. Our Edgbaston campus
offers the amenities of a small town,
enabling our students to enjoy a bustling
community on campus with many events
and activities on offer.
Shopping
The Guild is home to a variety of retail
outlets, including a supermarket, Costa
Coffee, Subway, bank and travel agents
(so that you can organise flights and
holidays – with great student discounts).
Guild Lettings, a one-stop shop for rented
accommodation in the local area, is located
in University Centre. There are plenty of
other shopping opportunities across the
campus, with a fruit and vegetable stall
and the monthly Farmers’ Market whichoffers locally sourced, fairly priced and
environmentally friendly produce.
Culture at Birmingham
The campus is bursting with remarkable
finds: rare books and archives, a
campus-wide art collection, the Barber
Institute of Fine Arts, a 450-seat concert
hall and an Arts and Crafts house with
botanic gardens, all discovered among
the lecture theatres and laboratories.
We are the only
university in mainland
Britain with our own
railway station on
campus, appropriately
named ‘University’
‘I chose Birminghambecause of its excellentsporting and academicstandards. I’m a GreatBritain international
distance runner andam supported by theUniversity’s sportscholarship schemeas a Gold Scholar;the support is amazing.’
Hannah, BSc Human Biology,
3rd year
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
11/56
2016 Admissions
Campus highlights
Facilities at a glance:
o Libraries
o The Guild of Students
o Opticians
o Hairdresser
o Barber Institute of Fine Arts
o Winterbourne House and Garden
o Chaplaincy
o Banks
o Fresh fruit and vegetable stall
o Supermarkets
o Travel agent
o Post office
o Dry cleaner
Virtual campus
Our beautiful 250-acre campus is
one of many reasons our students love
studying here. If you are unable to visit
us, then go to our virtual tour site at:
www.virtualtour.bham
University of Birmingham Sport
(UBSport)
Ranked second in the UK for our
sport programmes, we have an excellent
international reputation for our facilities.
Birmingham attracts athletes from across
the world to study, train and compete.
Opening in early 2016, our new,
state-of-the-art sports centre will sit on
the corner of Bristol Road and Edgbaston
Park Road, encompassing a unique raftof facilities including Birmingham’s only
50-metre swimming pool, a large
multi-sport hall, a range of activity and
fitness studios, a very extensive gym
and six glass-backed squash courts.
The Guild of Students
The botanic gardens at Winterbourne House and Garden
Other campuses
Alongside the Edgbaston campus we
also have the Selly Oak campus: an
80-acre site with a village atmosphere
and centrally located facilities. It is home
to the School of Education and the Selly
Oak Visual Arts Centre.
The Ironbridge Institute is a partnership
between the University of Birmingham
and the Ironbridge Gorge MuseumTrust and provides a unique experience
for postgraduate students studying
programmes in heritage management.
Our Shakespeare Institute is based
in Stratford-upon-Avon, offering
postgraduate students and scholars
an academic experience unequalled
by any other university.
The Bramall Music Building
Artist’s impression of the newsports centre
http://www.virtualtour.bham/http://localhost/var/www/apps/conversion/tmp/scratch_3/compete.Openinghttp://localhost/var/www/apps/conversion/tmp/scratch_3/compete.Openinghttp://localhost/var/www/apps/conversion/tmp/scratch_3/compete.Openinghttp://localhost/var/www/apps/conversion/tmp/scratch_3/compete.Openinghttp://www.virtualtour.bham/
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
12/56
2 International Prospectus
The city of Birmingham
Birmingham city centre, just three miles
away from our Edgbaston campus, isan exciting European destination. As
one of the UK’s most diverse cities,
over 30% of Birmingham’s residents
are of minority ethnic origin. All major
religious festivals are celebrated here;
in 2013 almost 100,000 people filled
the streets of Birmingham to celebrate
the Sikh festival of Vaisakhi and around
20,000 enjoyed the dazzling Chinese
New Year celebrations in our very
own Chinatown.
Birmingham is ideally placed for trips
throughout the UK and Europe via the
international airport. We are within
easy reach of famous towns such as
Stratford-upon-Avon, the historic city
of Oxford and the mountains of Wales.
BIRMINGHAM IS AN EXCITING DESTINATION WITH
A LONG CULTURAL AND INTELLECTUAL HERITAGE.
CHOOSE BIRMINGHAM FOR A WARM WELCOME IN
ONE OF THE MOST DIVERSE CITIES IN BRITAIN.
Birmingham highlights
Food and drink All tastes are catered for in Birmingham.
In the city centre alone, more than 200
restaurants serve food from 27 countries.
Over 100 Balti houses attract more
than 20,000 visitors each week, while
Chinatown offers tasty cuisine from
across Asia.
BIRMINGH
EDINBURGH
LON
CARDIFF
DUBLIN MANCHESTER
BELFAST
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
13/56
2016 Admissions
Green parks and outdoor spaceThere are nearly 600 parks and public
open spaces in Birmingham – and Sutton
Park is the largest urban park in Europe
outside of a capital city.
Music and theatre
The NIA, LG Arena and the O2
Academy are ideal venues for musical
performances. Over 50,000 people
watch the inspirational and world famous
City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra(CBSO) every year – that’s more than
any other UK orchestra. The Birmingham
Hippodrome is one of the busiest and
most popular theatres in the UK with over
520,000 visitors every year. The city also
boasts a wide and impressive collection
of traditional and contemporary art
galleries to explore.
Shopping
The Bullring is one of Europe’s largest
city centre shopping centres, while
the Jewellery Quarter is home to
Birmingham’s historic jewellery trade
and boasts more than 400 shops.
Shops in the Custard Factory and areas
such as the Great Western Arcade offer
unique finds.
Frankfurt Christmas Market
Every Christmas millions of people flock
to the city centre to enjoy the Frankfurt
Market, the biggest outdoor Christmasmarket in the UK, selling gifts, decorations
and jewellery as well as German mulled
wine, beer and grilled sausages.
Places of worship
All faiths are well represented in
Birmingham, with more than 650
churches, mosques, synagogues
and temples across the city.
km
IS
BRUSSELS
AMSTERDAM
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
14/56
HOURS OF COMMITTEEMEETINGS FORSTUDENT SOCIETIES22
HOURS OPENACCESS LANGUAGECOURSE40
HOURS OFLECTURES
440
HOURSARCHERYTRAINING
154
HOURS BEINGA STUDENTAMBASSADOR150
MY TIMEAPRIL,
MSC MARKETING STUDENT
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
15/56
2016 Admissions
ISAS provides pre-arrival support which will
help you start to think about arrangements
you need to make before you travel; from
your visa application or bringing family with
you, to making travel plans for arriving in theUK and what you need to do in your first
few weeks at the University.
To help you do this, when you accept the
offer of a place, you will receive emails
from ISAS which will provide you with
useful information on applying for your
entry clearance visa; what to do if you
have visa or travel problems; preparing
for life at the University and in the UK, and
what will happen in your first few weeks
at the University. If you are bringing your
dependants (family) to the UK you can
contact ISAS if you have any queries.
Student support
International Students Advisory
Service (ISAS)
ISAS has many successful years’
experience of welcoming international
students to Birmingham. Our ‘InternationalWelcome’ at the start of your first term is
a good opportunity for you to meet other
students, get to know the campus and
settle into life at Birmingham.
The ISAS website provides information
to guide you through important things
to do such as finding and registering
with a doctor or opening a bank account.
ISAS will support you when you arrive
and during your studies and an important
part of this is helping you to prepare to
come to the UK.
ISAS provides free and confidential
support, advice and guidance on a
wide range of areas including:
o Applying for your visa/visa support
to come to the UK or to continueyour studies in the UK
o Bringing your family to the UK
o Living and working in the UK during
your studies
o Working after your studies
o Information about social activities
o Information on studying in the UK
o Support in adjusting to life and
study in the UK
International Students
Advisory Service
Tel: +44 (0)121 414 8464
Online queries:
www.studenthelp.bham.ac.uk or
visit www.as.bham.ac.uk/studentlife/
international
WITH ONE OF THE LARGEST INTERNATIONAL
STUDENT POPULATIONS IN THE UK, WE INVEST
IN SPECIFIC SUPPORT SERVICES SO THAT YOU
CAN RELAX AND ENJOY YOUR TIME WITH US.
http://www.studenthelp.bham.ac.uk/http://www.as.bham.ac.uk/studentlife/internationalhttp://www.as.bham.ac.uk/studentlife/internationalhttp://www.as.bham.ac.uk/studentlife/internationalhttp://www.as.bham.ac.uk/studentlife/internationalhttp://www.studenthelp.bham.ac.uk/
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
16/56
6 International Prospectus
English language support
If you have not yet met the English
language requirements attached toyour offer, or wish to improve your
English language and academic
skills before your academic course
starts, you can attend a full-time
presessional course.
These sessions are held in April,
June, July and August (offering 20-,
15-, 10- and 6-week programmes).
If you meet the English language
requirements but want to refresh your
academic English before your studies
commence, we also offer a four-week
preparation course for unconditional
offer holders.
We also provide:
o Free English language support
while you are studying here
o English classes for your partner
o Day trips to places of cultural and
historic interesto An opportunity to stay with a
British family through HOST
Learn more
www.birmingham.ac.uk/
englishprogrammes
Supporting your faith
St Francis Hall, the multi-faith chaplaincy
on campus, is a place where students ofall faiths or none can meet for worship or
an informal chat and speak to a chaplain
for spiritual, religious advice or pastoral
counselling. We have Christian, Jewish,
Muslim, Hindu and Buddhist chaplains
and there are well-established societies
and groups. The Guild of Students also
has a variety of faith-based groups. In
addition to the facilities on campus,
the city of Birmingham has places of
worship and prayer rooms for many
faiths and religions.
Find out more about supporting your faith:
www.chaplaincy.bham.ac.uk
Looking after your children
If you choose to bring your family to the
UK, the University has two nurseries on
campus offering a high standard of care
and education. The nurseries are very
popular, so we recommend you check that
places are available as early as possible.
Find out more about childcare options:
www.birminghamdaynursery.co.uk
Wellbeing
The Wellbeing Centre aims to enable
students to get the most out of their timeat university. Should you ever need it, we
have a dedicated team of professional
counsellors providing individual, group
or online support.
Guild of Students
The Advice and Representation Centre
(ARC), in the Guild of Students, offers
free, confidential and impartial advice
to all students on a range of issues
including academic, finance, employment,
immigration and housing.
Find out more about the Advice and
Representation Centre:
www.guildofstudents.com/support/thearc/
Disability
If you have a disability, the University
has a range of services available to
support you throughout your studies.
It is important that you tell us as early
as possible about your disability, sothat we can identify the support that
you might need. Any information that
you tell us about your disability will be
treated in the strictest confidence.
Find out more about the disability support
that’s available: www.as.bham.ac.uk/
study/support/learn
Learn more
www.guildofstudents.com/support
‘Be adventurous and brave! I joined BUDSDance Society and the Chinese Society.BUDS has a dance performance week every
year to raise money for charity and as a memberI performed in this year’s show, which wasincredibly successful and enjoyable.’
Ruby, BSc Money, Banking and Finance student from China
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/englishprogrammeshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/englishprogrammeshttp://www.chaplaincy.bham.ac.uk/http://www.birminghamdaynursery.co.uk/http://www.guildofstudents.com/support/thearc/http://www.as.bham.ac.uk/study/support/learnhttp://www.as.bham.ac.uk/study/support/learnhttp://www.guildofstudents.com/supporthttp://www.guildofstudents.com/supporthttp://www.as.bham.ac.uk/study/support/learnhttp://www.as.bham.ac.uk/study/support/learnhttp://www.guildofstudents.com/support/thearc/http://www.birminghamdaynursery.co.uk/http://www.chaplaincy.bham.ac.uk/http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/englishprogrammeshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/englishprogrammes
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
17/56
2016 Admissions
Funding your study
When you are planning your finances
for studying in the UK, you will need
to consider two main costs:o Tuition fees, which are your
contribution to the cost of learning
at Birmingham
o Living costs, which will include
travel, accommodation, food and
day-to-day expenses
Tuition fees
The University charges an annual tuition
fee to international students that is paid at
the start of your programme. This covers
the cost of your tuition, examination and
graduation, and includes membership
of the Guild of Students. Your tuition
fee depends on the programme you
choose to study and the level at which
you study. If you are made an offer to
study by the University your tuition fees
will be confirmed in your offer letter. We
strongly advise you to check the latest
fees information with the University
before applying: www.birmingham.ac.uk/
internationalfinance
Living costs
The cost of living varies throughout
Britain. Students in Birmingham enjoy
lower living costs than many other cities,
though this of course depends on your
lifestyle. As a rough guide, a single
student in University accommodation
over a 42-week academic session
will spend at least £163 per week.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO ATTEND UNIVERSITY?
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT INTERNATIONAL FEES AND
LIVING COSTS.
If you are bringing dependants
you will need to allow extra. Visit
www.birmingham.ac.uk/livingcostsfor more information.
Part-time employment
The Guild of Students gives you access
to hundreds of part-time vacancies should
you need to support your living costs. They
also provide employment information and
advice. www.guildofstudents.com/jsv
Visit www.birmingham.ac.uk/
internationalfinance for advice
and information.
Birmingham has been
ranked as the sixthcheapest of the top
20 universities to live
in the UK, by online
payment provider Ukash.
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/livingcostshttp://www.guildofstudents.com/jsvhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.guildofstudents.com/jsvhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/livingcostshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinance
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
18/56
8 International Prospectus
Scholarships andfunding opportunities
CHOOSING TO STUDY IN THE UK CAN BE A
REWARDING BUT EXPENSIVE DECISION FOR
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS. THAT IS WHY WE OFFER
A RANGE OF SCHOLARSHIPS FOR UNDERGRADUATE
AND POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS TO ENSURE YOU
HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO STUDY HERE.
‘I was honouredthat the Universityput enough faith in
me to choose me forthese scholarshipsand they have motivatedme to work hard. Forme, they have beentremendous as theyhave fully funded mytuition. Through my
scholarships, I havealso attended socialevents, meetingstudents from all overthe world.’
Erica, MA Human Resource
Management student from the
USA and recipient of Santander
and University of Birmingham
International Postgraduate
Scholarships
For further information and to apply
for all scholarships visit: www.birmingham.
ac.uk/internationalscholarships
Financial support for undergraduate
EU students
If you are an undergraduate student
from another European Union (EU)
country, you can apply for financial
help towards your tuition fees by
sending an application form to the
Student Finance Service Non-UK
Team. For more details, go to:
www.gov.uk/student-finance-forms
Chevening/BirminghamPartnership Scholarships
The University is proud to offer 16
awards covering tuition, stipend and
allowances packages in partnership
with Chevening.
Subject-specific scholarships
We also have various subject-based
bursaries, grants and scholarships
on offer.
For further information please visit
the web pages for the relevant
college or school on the University
of Birmingham website:
www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools
Joint University of Birmingham
and Santander Scholarship
In partnership with Banco Santander,
the University of Birmingham is
delighted to offer eight postgraduate
scholarships worth £5,000 each to
outstanding candidates from Latin
America and the USA.
University of Birmingham
USA Scholarship Programme
The University of Birmingham, in
partnership with the US AlumniFoundation, is pleased to offer a joint
scholarship scheme for 2016 entry.
One Scholarship worth £15,000
for postgraduate study and two
scholarships worth £7,500 for
undergraduate study are available.
Other scholarship awards
We work in partnership with a number
of organisations and scholarship
bodies including Chevening, the Said
Foundation, Marshall Scholarships,
Islamic Development Bank, Fulbright
Commission, Tullow Group, British
Council HESPAL, CAPES, Hong
Kong Student Financial Assistance
Agency, the China Scholarship
Council and the Commonwealth
Scholarship Commission to offer
scholarships to talented applicants
who meet specific criteria.
Other sources of funding
For other sources of funding,
we would advise that you contact
the following:
o The British Council, Embassy
or High Commission in your
home country
o The Ministry or Department of
Education in your home country
o Your current academic institut ion
o Students from Canada, the
United States and India can
visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/
international-loans
for information on loans
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalscholarshipshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalscholarshipshttp://www.gov.uk/studenthttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schoolshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/international-loanshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/international-loanshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/international-loanshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/international-loanshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schoolshttp://www.gov.uk/studenthttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalscholarshipshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalscholarships
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
19/56
HOURSBUILDING AROBOT TUTOR20
STILL CAN’T BELIEVEI’M IN ENGLANDSTUDYING ROBOTICS!24/7
HOURSTRAVELLINGTO THE UK15HOURS TRYING FOODSFROM DIFFERENT
CULTURES7
HOURS ATTENDINGLECTURES WITH WORLDRENOWNED ROBOTICIST8
HOURS BEING BOREDAT HOME WITHNOTHING TO DO0
MY TIMEEMMANUEL, MSC ROBOTICS STUDENT
FROM THE USA
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
20/56
0 International Prospectus
Work experience and placements
We have developed a range of internshipsand funded work experience placements
that will enhance both your professional
and personal skills while giving you practical
experience required by almost all graduate
employers. These are available whether
you wish to remain in the UK to pursue an
internship, or would like to travel elsewhere.
Working alongside your degree
Working part-time while at university shows
employers that you are flexible, committed
and skilled at managing your time. The
variety of jobs available here means that
you can amass valuable work experience
before you enter the graduate job market.
Whether you prefer fixed or flexible
working hours, you can apply for a wide
range of jobs, both on campus and with
external companies, all of which have
been carefully checked by our advisors.
Careers Network at Birmingham offers
a wide range of services, includinga dedicated International Careers
Consultant, working exclusively on your
behalf, with assistance from a team of
international student ambassadors. This
team will support you in developing your
skills to ensure you are fully prepared
for a job or further academic study,
either in your home country or elsewhere.
Our dedicated support includes:
o One-to-one advice on career options
o Workshops to help you understand
the expectations of global recruiters
o Job seeking and assessment centre
workshops designed specifically for
international students
o Events on campus including job fairs
and employer networking events,
as well as virtual job fairs online
o Skills development through our
award-winning Personal Skills
Award, an optional employability
skills development awardo Support in developing enterprise,
innovation and entrepreneurship skills
through the Entrepreneurship and
Innovation Centre
o Careers advice for alumni, so that
we can support you even after you
have graduated
For more information on Careers
Network visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/
students/careers
Your career
Preparing for the future
At Birmingham we recognise theimportance of preparation for employment
during your time here and we encourage
you to enhance your degree by pursuing
employment experience and volunteering.
Your academic programme is only part
of your university experience. In addition
to offering world-class education, we offer
proven opportunities for students to stand
out in the competitive world of graduate
recruitment and enable you to graduate
as a professional, skilled individual. By
making the most of our services, you will
stand out as an impressive applicant as
you enter a highly competitive job market,
whether at home or in the UK.
A Birmingham degree is highly regarded
by employers; we are one of the top
UK universities that major international
companies target when looking for new
employees. Many employers expect
candidates to be able to show more thana strong academic background and will
look for activities that develop your skills
and experiences.
AS AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT LOOKING TO
STUDY AT BIRMINGHAM, YOU HAVE ALREADY TAKEN
THE FIRST STEP IN DEFINING YOUR FUTURE. THE
BIRMINGHAM STUDENT EXPERIENCE OFFERS YOU
MANY EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES.
Our Careers Network Service
were winners of the National
Union of Students and UKCISA
Internationalisation Award
for Best Careers Support for
International Students 2014.
WorkLink, our dedicated internal
recruitment agency, can connect
you with on-campus casual work
opportunities. It is simple to register
for job alerts and apply for jobs
online and you can also get help
with CVs and interview techniques.
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/careershttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/careershttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/careershttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/careers
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
21/56
2016 Admissions
‘I chose Birmingham becauseof the high teaching standards,[it is] well known by industry, the great opportunitiesfor further study as well as many [chances todevelop] my employability skills while studying.’
Mehran, PhD Civil Engineering student from Iran
Rise above the competition
Global Challenge is a unique scheme to give ambitious students once-in-a-lifetime
opportunities as funded interns in top global companies. There are opportunities
whatever your subject or career interest. Previous placements included internships
at the British Consulate in Chicago; a museum in Melbourne, Australia; and
placements at GlaxoSmithKline in Brazil, Dubai and Singapore.
The Guild of Students gives you access
to hundreds of part-time vacancies locally
and within the Guild of Students, as well
as vacation work all over the UK and
overseas. They also provide employment
information and advice, including
drop-ins, workshops and jobs fairs.
www.guildofstudents.com/jsv
The University’s International Students
Advisory Service can provide advice
on working during your studies. Checkthe UK Council for International Student
Affairs for the latest information. www.
ukcisa.org.uk/student/working_during.php
The Times Higher Education ranked
the University of Birmingham as
fourth highest in the UK for Graduate
Employability, and ninth highest in
the UK for Global Employability.
http://www.guildofstudents.com/jsvhttp://www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/working_during.phphttp://www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/working_during.phphttp://www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/working_during.phphttp://www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/working_during.phphttp://www.guildofstudents.com/jsv
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
22/56
MY TIMERAQUEL, DOCTORAL RESEARCHER, INSTITUTE
OF APPLIED SOCIAL SCIENCES FROM PORTUGAL
EVENINGS PER WEEKCREATING UNIQUEJEWELLERY ITEMS3
DAYS SPENT DEVELOPINGA RESEARCH HUB ONCONFLICT RESOLUTION10
WEEKS SPENT LECTURINGAT INSTITUTO SUPERIORPOLITECNICO TUNDAVALA,ANGOLA
24
WEEKENDS PER MONTHHAVING QUALITY TIME
WITH MY FAMILY INLOVELY BRITAIN
4
HOURS PER WEEK ASAN INTERNATIONALSTUDENT AMBASSADORTEAM LEADER
5
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
23/56
2016 Admissions
As a graduate or ‘alumnus’ of the
University of Birmingham you automaticallybecome part of our extensive alumni
community. This brings benefits
including careers support and regular
networking events.
The University’s Careers Network offers
a wide range of services including a
dedicated International Careers Advisor
Consultant, and a team of International
Student Ambassadors. Services can be
accessed on campus, via online vacancy
systems, and at regular careers events
both during your studies and for two
years after graduation.
Finding jobs in your home country
Careers Network can help you research
jobs all over the world. International job
opportunities are listed on our vacancy
database and regular careers fairs,workshops and presentations are
attended by many large, global employers.
Many resources are available on our
Careers Network website, where you
can also gain free access to ‘Passport
Career’, a large database of information
on employers, vacancies, and industry
trends across the world. Find out more:
www.birmingham.ac.uk/international/
careers
Staying in the UK after study
In certain circumstances some international
graduates can pursue careers in the UK.
Please visit the UK Visas and Immigration
website for further information:
www.gov.uk/government/organisations/
uk-visas-and-immigration
University of Birmingham Alumni University of Birmingham Alumni and Friends group@birminghamalum
Alumni – a relationship for life
THE EXPERIENCES YOU HAVE AT UNIVERSITY, ALONG WITH THE
FRIENDS YOU MAKE, WILL LAST A LIFETIME. AS A MEMBER OF OUR
ALUMNI COMMUNITY YOU WILL CONTINUE TO HAVE ACCESS
TO A WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES TO SUPPORT YOUR PERSONAL
AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WAY BEYOND GRADUATION.
Join our community
Our global community of more than200,000 graduates includes Nobel
Prize winners, Olympians, scientists,
journalists, politicians, authors, and
business people in more than 190
countries. From Australia to China,
Greece, Nigeria, the USA, and more;
Birmingham alumni around the world
meet regularly to share memories
of the University, and build valuable
professional connections.
From guest lectures and mentoring,
to providing work experience
placements, many of our graduates
share their knowledge and experience
with current students. You will have
many opportunities to meet alumni
in social and professional settings
where you will benefit from their
career and personal experiences.
In addition, our alumni magazine Old
Joe, University website, and socialmedia, are a great way to access the
latest news and events, stay in touch
with friends, and much more.
Your relationship with Birmingham
will last a lifetime, supporting you as
you progress through your career.
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/international/careershttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/international/careershttp://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigrationhttp://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigrationhttp://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigrationhttp://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigrationhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/international/careershttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/international/careers
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
24/56
4 International Prospectus
STUDY ABROAD FORDEGREE STUDENTSAT BIRMINGHAM
(OUTGOING STUDENTS)
There are many opportunities for
students pursuing full-time degrees
at the University of Birmingham
to study abroad. Almost all of our
undergraduate programmes include
the possibility of a year or term
abroad, and there are also exchange
opportunities for PhD students.
We have partner universities
all over the world, including in
the USA, Canada, Australia, NewZealand, Singapore, China, Hong
Kong, Japan, Ghana, Israel, Korea,
Malaysia, the West Indies and
throughout Europe and Latin America.
To find out more about study abroad
opportunities that might be available
to you as part of your course visit:
www.birmingham.ac.uk/study
abroad-outgoing
Opportunities to study abroad
Whether you are a University of Birmingham
student considering a year or termstudying outside of the UK or an incoming
student considering Birmingham as your
Study Abroad destination, a world of
opportunity awaits you!
Which programme is for me?
We welcome students from across the
globe, who come to Birmingham for a
term or year on one of the programmes
below. There are several options for
study abroad at Birmingham:
o International exchange opportunities
(outgoing and incoming) – these
TIME SPENT OVERSEAS IS UNDOUBTEDLY ONE
OF THE BEST OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE TO YOU
DURING YOUR STUDIES. IT IS A PRIVILEGE AND
AN EXPERIENCE TO BE PROUD OF THROUGHOUT
YOUR UNIVERSITY AND PROFESSIONAL LIFE.
‘Birmingham has an amazing
campus. It’s made of
beautiful red brick, and
feels like a classic university
setting. Also, it is very
focused on student welfare.They want each student to
have the best time possible
at university. There are so many clubs and
organisations and sports teams and nights out
planned just for Birmingham students. It’s great!’
Ellen, Mechanical Engineering/Materials and Metallurgy
Study Abroad student from the USA
programmes are for Birmingham
students and students studyingat one of our partner institutions
overseas, including those that are
part of the European Erasmus
exchange programme
o The Study Abroad programme
(incoming) – our fee-paying
programme for incoming students
who don’t come on one of the
above exchange programmes
o Birmingham International Summer
School (incoming) – a two-week
or four-week summer programme
for students at other institutions
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-outgoinghttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-outgoinghttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-outgoinghttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-outgoing
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
25/56
2016 Admissions
We welcome students from across the
globe, who come to Birmingham for a
year or six months on our Study Abroad
programme. Taking the same courses and
living in the same accommodation as our
degree students, you will be fully integrated
into the vibrant student life on campus.
Birmingham is organised into five
colleges and modules are available to
Study Abroad students in most subject
areas – except for those in the College
of Medical and Dental Sciences –subject to satisfying the academic entry
requirements. You must have completed
at least one year of full-time university-level
study by the time you join the programme.
A full year’s course load at Birmingham
is 120 credits and most modules are
worth 10 or 20 credits.
There is only one examination period
at Birmingham, which is at the end
of the academic year in May/June. If you
plan to spend only the first term with us
then you will have special assessment
in place of the end of year exams.
Study Abroad fees
International Study Abroad Programme:
Sept 2015–June 2016: £12,000
Sept 2015–Dec 15: £6,750
Jan 2016–June 2016: £6,750
EU Study Abroad Programme:
Sept 2015–June 2016: £9,000Sept 2015–Dec 2015: £4,500
Jan 2016–June 2016: £4,500
For the latest information, please visit
www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate/
studyabroad/study-abroad.aspx
English language requirements
All students whose first language
is not English must meet the English
language requirement.
Science without Borders (Ciencia sem Fronteiras)
We are delighted to be one of the UK institutions
selected to participate in the Science without Borders
Scheme. If you are an undergraduate or PhD student from
Brazil find out more at: www.birmingham.ac.uk/
studyabroad-incoming
INTERESTED INSTUDYING ABROADAT BIRMINGHAM?(INCOMING STUDENTS)
How to apply
For the International Exchange
programme and Erasmus exchange
programme you will need to apply
online at:
www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-incoming
For the Study Abroad programme
please apply online: www.birmingham.
ac.uk/undergraduate/studyabroad/
study-abroad.aspx
For more information on Birmingham
International Summer School please
see page 35.
The standard requirements* are:
IELTS 6.5, with not less than 6.0
in any one component
It is possible to attend a presessional
English course first if you do not meet
the English language requirements.
Presessional English courses can be
joined in April, June, July and August,
ranging in duration from six to 20 weeks.
If you want to refresh your academic
English skills (and already meet our
English requirements) we also offer
a four-week preparation course
for unconditional offer holders.
*Higher English scores are required if you
wish to take Law modules; IELTS 7.0 with
no less than 6.5 in any band.
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate/studyabroad/study-abroad.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate/studyabroad/study-abroad.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-incominghttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-incominghttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-incominghttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-incominghttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate/studyabroad/study-abroad.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate/studyabroad/study-abroad.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate/studyabroad/study-abroad.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate/studyabroad/study-abroad.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate/studyabroad/study-abroad.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate/studyabroad/study-abroad.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-incominghttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-incominghttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-incominghttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/studyabroad-incominghttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate/studyabroad/study-abroad.aspxhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate/studyabroad/study-abroad.aspx
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
26/56
6 International Prospectus
SELLY OAK VILLAGE
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
27/56
2016 Admissions
To take a virtual tour of our campus please visit:
www.virtualtour.bham.ac.uk
http://www.virtualtour.bham.ac.uk/http://www.virtualtour.bham.ac.uk/
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
28/56
8 International Prospectus
Accommodation
With so many options on the type
of accommodation available, we areconfident that you will find a home to suit
you. We offer a range of accommodation
including self-catered flats with shared
bathroom and kitchen facilities, where
small groups of students live together
and cook for themselves. We also have
the option of en suite rooms where you
have your own bathroom, along with
a selection of modern self-contained
studio apartments.
You can also choose one of our Meal
Plan rooms at the Vale Village, offering
a flexible weekly budget that is tailored
around your University schedule. We
have long opening hours and a wide
selection of restaurants and coffee shops.
Our students enjoy the Meal Plan as it
adds to the social wellbeing of the first
year at University.
We have three accommodation
villages, each offering a safe andfriendly place to live, just a short
walk from the main campus. The
Vale Village, Pritchatts Park Village
and Jarratt Hall in the Selly Oak
Village provide a choice of quality
accommodation, each with its own
student community and social hub.
You may also like to live in our Pritchatts
House Global Community which is
located at Pritchatts Park Village.
WE WANT YOU TO FEEL AT HOME DURING
YOUR STAY AT BIRMINGHAM. FOR THIS REASON
WE GUARANTEE ACCOMMODATION TO
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS FOR THEIR
FIRST YEAR OF ACADEMIC STUDY.*
This exciting and unique living
environment will provide residents withan opportunity to build friendships with
students from around the world. Please
visit our website for further information.
www.birmingham.ac.uk/GlobalCommunity
In order to maintain our guarantee
scheme we work with partner providers
of accommodation such as Victoria Hall
and Liberty Living who offer the same
living experience as university owned
halls, but are owned by private providers.
We have nominated bed spaces with
these providers so you may be offered
a room with one of these providers
for your first year.
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/GlobalCommunityhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/GlobalCommunity
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
29/56
2016 Admissions
LIVING, the University’s accommodation
service, is designed to help you
with all your accommodation needs
during your time at Birmingham.
Our team is on hand to answer any
queries you may have regarding our
accommodation or private renting.
You can apply for accommodation
as soon as you have your offer of a
place to study here. You will need
your student ID and an email address
to apply, which is included in your
offer pack. www.birmingham.ac.uk/
accommodation-apply
Helping you to feel at home
Lily, a Customer Service Managerwithin accommodation who specialises in
supporting international students, is here
to help you settle into university life and to
ensure you get the best experience living
in university accommodation. Lily can help
you with any questions or concerns you
may have. Lily is assisted by The Student
Engagement Team who are a student
group of volunteers who can also provide
extra support and guidance to you during
your stay in accommodation. Many of the
volunteers are international students
themselves who will understand some
of the challenges you may face.
You will also benefit from Student
mentors, who help students living in
University accommodation settle into
their life at Birmingham. They are there
to provide advice and guidance on a
variety of issues and provide numerous
activities and events to help you enjoyyour time here. www.guildofstudents.com/
support/studentmentors/
Living off-campus
You may choose to live off campus in
privately rented accommodation. There is
a range of private accommodation available
in the local area of Selly Oak which is
suitable for students, couples and families.
The University has a dedicated website
called www.birminghamstudentpad.co.uk
where you can search for properties
24 hours a day.
Our LIVING staff offer a contract
checking service and advice and
guidance on all aspects of renting
in the private sector. We also work very
closely with Guild Lettings the Student
Unions own lettings agent who only
work with accredited landlords.
www.guildlettingsbirmingham.co.uk /
If you have any queries please email us
at [email protected] or visit
our website: www.birmingham.ac.uk/
accommodation
* To be eligible for accommodation you
must have firmly accepted our offer to
study at Birmingham and submitted your
online accommodation application by 31
May 2016 for EU students and 31 July
2016 for international students.
Single study bedrooms based in cluster
flats, sharing kitchen and bathroom
facilities – from £85 per week
En suite bedrooms with your own
bathroom, plus shared kitchen –
from £130 per week
Studios and apartments, with
exclusive use of a bathroom and
kitchen – from £190 per week
Partner accommodation from
£99 per week
Types of accommodation
We will try to place students in single-sex
accommodation where requested.
All accommodation is furnished,
has heating and internet access.
Learn more
www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodation
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodation-applyhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodation-applyhttp://www.guildofstudents.com/support/studentmentors/http://www.guildofstudents.com/support/studentmentors/http://www.birminghamstudentpad.co.uk/http://www.guildlettingsbirmingham.co.uk/mailto:[email protected]://www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodationhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodationhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodationhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodationhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodationhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodationmailto:[email protected]://www.guildlettingsbirmingham.co.uk/http://www.birminghamstudentpad.co.uk/http://www.guildofstudents.com/support/studentmentors/http://www.guildofstudents.com/support/studentmentors/http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodation-applyhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodation-apply
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
30/56
Course listings
Learn more about the course
you are interested in at
www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/courses
ARTS AND LAW Home to outstanding teachers,
researchers and professionals who will
support you during your time with us
and beyond, you will find challenging
and inspiring educational experiences
that will equip you with the skills
needed for your future career.
The College of Arts and Lawoffers programmes in:
o American and Canadian Studies
o Art History
o Drama
o English
o History and Cultures
o Law
o Modern Languages
o Music
o Philosophy
o Theology and Religion
SOCIAL SCIENCESThe College of Social Sciences
provides access to high-quality
social science research and world-
leading academics in all areas of
society. Research in the College
makes a real difference and its
teaching ensures the next generation
of social scientists will continue totransform their knowledge into
policies and practices for individuals,
organisations and governments alike
in the UK and internationally.
The College offers programmes in:
o Business
o Education
o Government and Society
o Social Policy
MEDICAL AND DENTALSCIENCESThe College of Medical and Dental
Sciences is a major international centre
for research and education in medicine,
medical sciences, dentistry, nursing
and pharmacy. The principal base of
the College lies immediately between
the main campus of the University andthe new Queen Elizabeth Hospital,
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS
Foundation Trust.
The College offers programmes in the
following areas:
o Cancer Sciences
o Clinical and Experimental Medicine
o Dentistry
o Health and Population Sciences
o Immunity and Infection
LIFE AND ENVIRONMENTALSCIENCESDedicated to exploring and learning
about the diversity and evolutionary
challenges of life in all its forms, the
College of Life and Environmental
Sciences uses training, fieldwork and
excellent facilities to enable students
to learn generic and discipline-specific
skills while studying exciting topics –ranging from ecology through to cancer
research and forensic psychology.
The College offers programmes in:
o Biosciences
o Geography, Earth and
Environmental Sciences
o Psychology
o Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation
Sciences
ENGINEERING AND PHYSICALSCIENCESThe College of Engineering and
Physical Sciences works across
the frontiers of science and
engineering in education, research
and translating knowledge.
The College offers access to learning
and career development opportunitiesin the following subject areas:
o Chemistry
o Chemical Engineering
o Civil Engineering
o Computer Science
o Electronic, Electrical and
Systems Engineering
o Mathematics
o Mechanical Engineering
o Metallurgy and Materials
o Physics and Astronomy
0 International Prospectus
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/courseshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/courseshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/courseshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/students/courses
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
31/56
2016 Admissions
Current flexible learning programmes
include post-qualification teachertraining in our School of Education,
part-time MBA and MSc programmes
taught by Birmingham Business School
faculty in Singapore and Hong Kong,
and a bespoke leadership development
programme for the NHS delivered by our
Health Services Management Centre in
partnership with KPMG and Manchester
Business School.
We recognise that in an increasingly
fast-paced world you need to be given
as much flexibility as possible in what you
are studying and where. Huge advances
in technology are making this a possibility,
providing students with a campus-quality
experience from the convenience of their
own home. Canvas, our online learning
platform, offers a highly interactive and
innovative way of studying and engaging
with your peers. It is also fully available
on mobile and tablet devices, so you can
access your learning content whereveryou are.
New online postgraduate courses
for 2015/16
We have recently launched three
new postgraduate distance learning
courses:
n Masters of Business Administration
(MBA)
n Masters of Science in International
Business (MSc IB)
n Masters of Public Administration
(MPA)
Our flexible online learning platform
presents a modern solution for today’s
international postgraduate students,
connecting you with an international
network of peers and course leaders
who are experts in their fields. It is a
unique online environment for inquisitive
minds and busy professionals alike, ideal
for postgraduate students who require
a level of freedom that goes beyond
that of a traditional campus setting.
Learn more:
UK: 0800 032 7101
US: 844-238-9560
Flexible learning at Birmingham
AT BIRMINGHAM, WE ARE COMMITTED TO DEVELOPING
PROGRAMMES THAT OFFER YOU FLEXIBILITY IN YOUR LEARNING.
FROM PART TIME AND DISTANCE LEARNING OPTIONS THROUGH
TO DEGREES TAUGHT BY OUR FACULTY OVERSEAS, WE OFFER
A RANGE OF OPPORTUNITIES TO SUIT YOUR LIFESTYLE.
Demonstrating our commitment to flexible
learning, we offer a suite of MOOCs(Massive Online Open Courses), which
are delivered through FutureLearn, the
UK’s first MOOC platform. These are
short, open-access courses which need
no previous qualifications and cover
a diverse range of topics, from Hamlet
to Dental Photography. Many of our
MOOCs are run in partnership with
other organisations such as the BBC
and the NHS. These partnerships are
testament to the quality of online learning
you can expect from Birmingham.
Learn more about MOOCs at:
www.futurelearn.com
http://www.futurelearn.com/http://www.futurelearn.com/
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
32/56
2 International Prospectus
Foundation pathways
Your pathway
You can enrol on to aone-year
or afour-year integrated programme at
Birmingham, depending on your offer.
You will pursue one of three innovative,
broad and academically challenging
pathways, offering a robust set of
modules to develop your subject
knowledge and academic writing
skills in preparation for your degree.
The three pathways lead to an extensive
range of our undergraduate programmes.
Your choice of undergraduate degree
will dictate which of the pathways
you will study:
o Arts, Social Sciences, Business
and Law
o Engineering and Physical Sciences
o Medical, Life and Geo Sciences
Each pathway consists of a core or
high-level (near-native) English route,
based on your current English proficiency
and your academic skills requirements.
Designed for international students who
require a preparatory year prior to UKundergraduate study, the Foundation is
equivalent in level to Year 13 of the UK
education system.
The Foundation pathway will ensure you
are fully prepared for your undergraduate
programme, immersing you in the university
environment and giving you dedicated
support in your first year in the UK.
A unique, on-campus experience
Studying a Foundation pathway at
Birmingham offers you a fully integrated
student experience with bespoke teaching
from our respected academics. You
will receive dedicated support in this
important first year and will be immersed
in the University environment to prepare
you for undergraduate student life.
Priorsfield, home to the Birmingham International Academy Hub and English Language Centre
A condensed January–September
programme is also available
for students on the Arts, Social
Sciences, Business and Law
pathway, with compulsory modules
and a core English route only.
Tailored support
We understand the support you willneed in your first year of study in the UK.
Our dedicated Birmingham International
Academy (BIA) team will support you in
your social and academic adjustment to
University life to help you make the most
of your time and excel in your studies.
The BIA team is based at Priorsfield, a
beautiful manor house on the Edgbaston
campus, where the student Hub and
English Language Centre are located
and most of your English and Study
Skills modules will be taught.
If you do not meet the English language
requirements for the Foundation
programme, we offer high-quality
presessional English programmes
before the start of your programme.
www.birmingham.ac.uk/englishprogrammes
WE OFFER A UNIQUE FOUNDATION PATHWAY FOR
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS, PROVIDING ON-CAMPUS
TEACHING AND SUPPORT TO PREPARE YOU FOR
AN UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE AT BIRMINGHAM.
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/englishprogrammeshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/englishprogrammes
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
33/56
2016 Admissions
Tuition fees and funding
Details of fees and funding can be
found at: www.birmingham.ac.uk/
internationalfinance
Accommodation fees are not part
of the package and are charged
separately.
Progression to your
undergraduate degree
When you apply, you will choose the
degree that you intend to progress to,
which dictates the pathway you will
follow in your first year.
Upon successful completion of the
appropriate pathway, you will be
guaranteed progression to your
chosen undergraduate programme.
For a small number of programmes,you may need to pass additional
conditions to progress, which will
be detailed in your offer. Information
about pathways and progression
requirements are available online:
www.birmingham.ac.uk/
foundationpathways
Entry requirements
We welcome applications from students
who will be aged 16 or above by the
start of the September term.
If you have completed your high school
education to a high standard and would
not normally be eligible for entry to our
undergraduate programmes, then our
foundation may be suitable for you.
If you have completed AS levels, A levels
or International Baccalaureate (Certificate
or Diploma) you may also be consideredfor entry onto the Foundation pathway.
You can check your English language
requirements and individual qualifications
by country on our website:
www.birmingham.ac.uk/
foundationpathways
Accommodation
On-campus accommodation is
guaranteed for foundation students.
If you are under 18 at the start of
your course you will live in dedicated
under-18 accommodation, which
includes Mason, one of the University’s
newest residences, in the Vale Village.
A Customer Service Manager will live
on-site to provide support and will
be the first point of contact for all
your welfare concerns.
If you are over the age of 18 at the start
of the course, you can also choose to live
off-campus in private accommodation.
Learn more
For all enquiries please contact:
t: +44 (0)121 414 9292
www.birmingham.ac.uk /foundation
Find us on Facebook
Birminghamfoundation
How to apply
Apply online at: www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundation/apply
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundationpathwayshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundationpathwayshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundationpathwayshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundationpathwaysmailto:[email protected]://www.birmingham.ac.uk/bfahttps://www.facebook.com/Birminghamfoundationhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundation/applyhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundation/applyhttps://www.facebook.com/Birminghamfoundationhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/bfamailto:[email protected]://www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundationpathwayshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundationpathwayshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundationpathwayshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/foundationpathwayshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinance
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
34/56
4 International Prospectus
Our International pre-Masters
programmes are designed to bridge
the gap between your current
qualifications and postgraduate
programmes at Birmingham.
Pre-Masters programmes are
available in the subject areas
of Music, International Relations
and Development, and Economics.
The two-year programme consists
of the Masters degree you wish to study,
with an integrated pre-Masters year.
You must successfully complete the
pre-Masters year before you progress
to the one-year Masters degree.
Entry requirements
The International pre-Masters programme
is suitable for you if you do not meet the
entry requirements for one-year Masters
programmes at Birmingham. Applicants
with the following qualifications will beeligible for consideration:
Music
A recognised first degree/diploma (in a
relevant subject) with the following GPA:
o 2.6–3.2 out of 5.0 or
o 2.0–2.5 out of 4.0
Economics, International Relations
and Development
A recognised first degree (in an unrelated
subject with some mathematical content
for Economics) with the following GPA:
o 3.2+ out of 5.0 or
o 3.0+ out of 4.0
Tuition feesDetails of fees and funding can be
found at: www.birmingham.ac.uk/
internationalfinance
How to apply
You can apply for the International
pre-Masters via our online course
finder. Choose your programme and
apply via our postgraduate portal:
www.birmingham.ac.uk/apply-ipm
Our new Postgraduate Certificate
in pre-Doctoral studies is designed
to prepare you for PhD study at
the University of Birmingham.
If your academic qualifications are
suitable for doctoral research but
you lack the appropriate academic
English language and study skills, the
pre-doctoral programme provides you
with an entry route to a PhD, beginning
in either September or April.
You will be able to study English and
Academic Skills modules created
specifically for preparation for a research
degree and begin your research proposal
immediately with the help of your intended
PhD supervisor, all based on our inspiring
Edgbaston campus in Birmingham.
Programme structure
The programme is a 60-credit course
consisting of:
o 40 credits of Academic English
and Study Skills
o 20-credit Extended Research
Proposal, supervised by the
intended PhD supervisor
Entry requirements
To be eligible, your current English
qualification will need to be no less than
0.5 IELTS band (or equivalent) below
the standard English language entry
requirements for the PhD programme.
Tuition fees
Details of fees and funding can be
found at www.birmingham.ac.uk/
internationalfinance
How to apply
To apply for the Postgraduate
Certificate in Pre-Doctoral Studies you
will require a conditional offer for PhD
study at the University of Birmingham,
with a named supervisor.
Apply online at:
www.birmingham.ac.uk/apply/
pre-doc
Postgraduate pathways
Learn more
For all enquiries please contact:
t: +44 (0)121 414 5005
www.birmingham.ac.uk/pgpathways
WE OFFER A SELECTION OF PRE-MASTERS AND
PRE-DOCTORAL PROGRAMMES, PREPARING YOU
FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDY AT BIRMINGHAM.
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/apply-ipmhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/apply/pre-dochttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/apply/pre-docmailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.birmingham.ac.uk/pgpathwayshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/pgpathwaysmailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.birmingham.ac.uk/apply/pre-dochttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/apply/pre-dochttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/apply-ipmhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinancehttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/internationalfinance
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
35/56
2016 Admissions
Birmingham InternationalSummer School
The Summer School is ideal for students
based overseas who would like toexperience studying abroad for a short
period, while gaining a valuable insight
into the fascinating culture of Britain.
International students who are currently
studying in UK universities are also
welcome to apply. You will also have the
opportunity to earn credits for your study.
Social events such as a traditional games
evening, afternoon tea in the beautiful
setting of the Winterbourne Botanical
Garden, a Balti night and visits to iconic
UK cities are just some examples of the
social activities you will also have the
chance to experience.
OUR SUMMER SCHOOL OFFERS YOU THE
CHANCE TO IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE CULTURE
OF ANOTHER COUNTRY, STUDYING AT A TOP
INSTITUTION IN THE HEART OF ENGLAND.
Programmes available
We currently offer two programmes:
British Cultural Heritage explores the
best of British Heritage while immersing
you in the art, architecture, literature,
music, design and popular culture that
form the basis of Britain’s culture and
heritage and continues to shape its
identity today. Through visits to nearby
Stratford-upon-Avon (Shakespeare’s
birthplace), Warwick and the World
Heritage Site of Ironbridge, as well as
local Birmingham attractions, you will
gain an insight into how British heritage
was created, along with a ‘behind the
scenes’ look at how heritage sites
are managed.
Mathematical Finance and Financial
Time Series Analysis, covers thefundamental knowledge in financial
engineering, which is a highly specialised
and rapidly growing area. You will explore
the computational skills as well as the
underlying mathematical and statistical
theory to prepare for a career on the
computational end of quantitative finance.
New programmes will be available
for 2016 and you can visit our website
for updates on the summer school.
Learn more
www.birmingham.ac.uk/biss
mailto:[email protected]://www.birmingham.ac.uk/bisshttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/bissmailto:[email protected]
8/16/2019 Birmingham University
36/56
6 International Prospectus
Course listings
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMMES
African Studies BA
African Studies with Anthropology BA
African Studies with Development BA
American and Canadian Studies
BA/MA/Joint Honours BA
American and Canadian Studies
with year abroad BA/American
and Canadian Studies MArt
Ancient and Medieval History BA
Ancient History BA
Anthropology and African Studies
BA Joint Honours BA
Anthropology Joint Honours BA
Archaeology and African Studies Joint
Honours BA
Archaeology and Ancient History BA
Archaeology and Anthropology BA
Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Sciences
(Interdisciplinary programme)
Birmingham Foundation: Arts, Social
Sciences, Business and Law Pathway
Classical Literature and Civilisation
BA Joint Honours BAClassics BA
Digital Humanities BA
Drama and English Joint Honours BA
Drama and Theatre Arts BA/Joint Honours BA
English Joint Honours BA
English (Literature) BA
English Language and English Literature BA
English with Creative Writing BA
English Language BA
French Studies Joint Honours BA
German Studies Joint Honours BA
Hispanic Studies Joint HonoursBA