There’s much more to the UK than just the Windsor monarchy, fish’n’chips, and Ed Sheeran. Similarly, there’s much more to its higher education options than just Oxford and Cambridge. International students focusing only on Oxbridge or central London frequently overlook terrific options in other parts of this “scepter’d isle” (that’s Shakespeare, kids). Here are a few hidden gems:
Bath Spa University – Picture Bard College plopped down on the gently rolling green hills of England. Small, picturesque campus perfect for students who want some peace and quiet while thinking deep thoughts; strong programs in creative arts and humanities. Not far from the stunning Roman city of Bath when students need some activity. If the thought ofstrolling beautiful
gardens and gazing at sheep thrills you, Bath Spa might be your place. Famous alumni include Mary Berry of The Great British Bake Off fame, and Manolo Blahnik!
University of the Arts, Bournemouth (AUB) – Strong programs in art and design, media, and film. Particularly known for its fashion and costume design; many BAFTA (aka Britain’s Oscars) winners were educated at AUB. And, they have an international admissions office very eager to speak to prospective students! Bournemouth is near Poole, a beautiful seaside town with lush natural surroundings southwest of gritty London.
University of Warwick (pronounced WARR-ick) – Well known for math, history, economics, business, and film studies and located in Coventry, just outside the big, bustling city of Birmingham. Well regarded for outstanding teaching, research, and ties to industry. Famous alumnus is the hilarious Stephen Merchant, actor and creator of The Office.
Royal Holloway – Terrific suburban option in a comfy English town with plenty of restaurants and shops, a short train ride to London, boasting a massive central building featuring characteristically over-the-top Victorian architecture. Strong programs in a wide range of subjects, including humanities, sciences, and business.
University of Glasgow – Many Americans are getting wise to the charms of St. Andrews and University of Edinburgh, but another terrific Scottish option is University of Glasgow, located in Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland and third largest in the UK, known for its arts, music, nightlife and Victorian architecture. The University claims strengths in physics, medicine, engineering, and quantum and nano science research. And if you want to talk about alumni, how about joining father of economics Adam Smith and scientist Lord Kelvin (as in the unit of measurement).
Remember, ours is a very large and diverse world with so many countries, universities, and opportunities out there for all students. The variety spans far beyond the relatively few colleges most people know and talk about, so get out there and explore! You’ll be amazed at what you find.
