When you study at BU, you’ll be part of a multifaceted learning community, led by experts across a broad range of subject areas – from the demonstrators in our high-spec TV studios, to the academics in our lecture theatres and experienced, helpful staff in our libraries.
Pioneering research is central to our academic staff – in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 assessment exercise, 94% of BU research was found to be internationally recognised or above – meaning you’ll be exposed to the very latest thinking and cutting-edge approaches throughout your studies.
Types of undergraduate study
There are many ways you can gain a higher education qualification at undergraduate level – from three-year or four-year Bachelor’s degrees (depending on whether you complete a placement year), to Top-up qualifications, Foundation degrees, courses with Foundation Years or Integrated Master’s degrees that lead to postgraduate study.
- Bachelor's degree
A standard Bachelor's degree takes three years to complete (full-time) and will see you graduate with one of the following titles: Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Engineering (BEng), or Bachelor of Law (LLB). They are all of equal status and it's possible to get your degree with Honours. - Four-year 'sandwich' degree
A sandwich degree is a Bachelor's course with an additional year 'sandwiched' between your second and final years of study. All of our undergraduate students have the option to undertake a work placement as part of their course. Within some courses, a minimum 30-week work placement is mandatory. - Degree Apprenticeship
Degree Apprenticeship means splitting your time between working for an employer and studying at BU, enabling you to earn a Bachelor's degree while gaining paid practical experience. It typically spans three to four years and is tailored to specific industries, offering hands-on training alongside academic learning, with your tuition fees covered as part of the apprenticeship. - Integrated Master’s degree
An Integrated Master's degree is a four-year course (or five years with placement) which combines undergraduate and postgraduate study. You will graduate with a Master’s level degree. - International Foundation Certificate (non-UK)
We offer Foundation Certificates for international students through the Bournemouth University International College. - Pathway programmes (non-UK)
You can gain fast-track entry onto selected degrees at BU if you undertake a relevant pathway programme through Bournemouth University International College. Successful completion of one of these courses guarantees you entry onto year two of your chosen undergraduate degree. - Foundation degrees
Although full Honours degrees (BA/BSc/BEng/LLB) are the most common undergraduate courses, they are not the only way to achieve a higher education qualification. You can also complete a Foundation degree, which lasts only two years and combines academic study with workplace learning. - Top-up degree
If you already have a Foundation degree, or another relevant qualification like a HND, you can complete just one year of study on a Top-up degree, which allows you to achieve a full Honours level qualification and graduate with a BSc (Hons) or BA (Hons). - Foundation Year
Foundation Years are an alternative route to studying a full degree. You would take a one-year course which enables you to progress on to the first year of one of our eligible undergraduate degrees.
Your academic year
The academic year runs from September to June, with some extended dates for Health & Social Care courses requiring professional practice placement hours.
Each year is punctuated by winter and spring breaks.
Real-world experience and industry-standard facilities
Throughout your studies, you’ll be exposed to industry expertise – not just from the leading academics running your course and in your faculty.
You’ll learn and network through guest speakers, bespoke events and festivals featuring top industry experts, and from the invaluable work placements available on all our courses.
You’ll also be able to prepare for your future career with access to professional-level facilities, from the simulation wards in our Bournemouth Gateway Building, to animation and cyber security computer labs, archaeological collections and Design & Engineering equipment in our Innovation Centre.
Find out more about our facilities Take our virtual tour
Information for parents and supporters
We know that coming to university isn’t just a big moment for any student joining us, and appreciate as a parent or carer you’ll have questions about your young person's university experience.
From accommodation to fees and funding and preparing to move here, we’ve prepared a range of information and tips to support you.
