Bangor University

Address and Location

Set in rural North Wales, Bangor University is short hop from from Snowdonia national park and the picturesque Isle of Anglesey. Popular local attractions include the historic Penhryn Castle and Bangor Pier, while the nearest big cities are Chester and Liverpool.

When it was founded in October 1884, Bangor University had just 58 students and 12 members of academic staff. Since then it has expanded to include Colleges of Art, Education, Humanities, Business, Social Science and Law. While not rated as one of the most academic universities in the UK, Bangor wins special praise for offering an exceptional student experience.

Location and Accessibility

By rail: Train journeys take a good few hours from most of the UK's major cities, with many trips taking a stop-off at Crewe.

By road: Motorists are advised to take the A55 and A5 across North Wales. After driving past Colwyn Bay, Conwy and Llanfairfechan, follow the signs for the university (prifysgol).

Accessibility: Bangor University strives to be as inclusive as possible. Investment has been made to install handrails, ramps, automatic doors and accessible toilet facilities across the campus. Prospective students will have the opportunity to discuss any accessibility issues at a university open day.

What's on Offer

BA, BSc, MA, MSci, MMus, MBA, Graduate (Conversion) Diploma, Graduate Diploma, Postgraduate Diploma, Postgraduate Certificate

Entry Requirements

Bangor University has an inclusive policy and considers the academic merits of each prospective student individually. For this reason, there is a great deal of variation in the level of achievement required for entry into different courses. Specific course information can be found on the university website.

University Accommodation

The largest accommodation unit in Bangor is Ffriddeod. Much of the accommodation in this residence is en suite with rooms varying in price. For cheaper accommodation, students have the option of the John Morris Jones or Seirol halls, the second of which is a fair walk from the city centre.

Private Accommodation

There are a good range of university-approved student lettings in the town. Most expensive are those along College Road, while the Llanedwen and Tregarth areas are generally more affordable.

Academic Strengths and Research

Bangor has an outstanding reputation for finance and accounting research, electronic engineering, sports science and psychology. Teaching in the majority of departments is regarded as excellent.

Tuition fees

Currently, all undergraduate courses are £9,000 per year. Fees for international and postgraduate courses vary.

Financial Support: Bangor students may be eligible for various bursary schemes, depending on individual circumstance. A number of scholarships are also available.

Academic Facilities

Bangor University has six libraries, all of which are staffed by helpful assistants. Most of the materials for arts subjects are found in the Main Library on College Road. Significant investment has been made to library resources in recent years, and internet access is available across the campus.

Other On-site Amenities

University halls of residence are located across Bangor and feature different levels of provision for students. At the largest site, Ffriddeodd, there is a coffee shop, student bar, convenience shop and well-equipped sports hall. Bangor also has an active student union, with societies covering everything from photography to canoeing.

Medical and Social Care

The university runs a confidential Nightline service for students who want to discuss personal issues, while a chaplaincy provides spiritual guidance to all students who request it.

What's On in the Area

A day out in Bangor could take in one of the town museums and a walk to the Pier Cafe. Some of Bangor's best pursuits are to be had out of town, however, hiking Snowdon or going fishing off-shore are both a must during time spent at the university. Students can also head to Angelsey for idyllic sea-views and sandy beaches. If they're still feeling energetic come the evening, Bangor is well-served by traditional pubs.

Moving on

The Bangor University Careers Advice service has an excellent reputation. As well as helping write CVs and application forms, they offer interview practice sessions and gap year guidance. Students are encouraged to consider graduate placement opportunities via the Go Wales scheme.

Bangor's Storm FM is one of the only UK student radio stations with a long-term FM licence. Notable university alumni include Slumdog Millionaire director Danny Boyle and the singer Bill Fay. Bridget Jones also studied here!

Is Bangor University the place for you?

Bangor is a good choice if you want to be part of a tight-knit student community, lovers of outdoor pursuits will feel also at home here. That said, if you're looking for varied nightclub scene then Bangor isn't the place for you. Why not try the Universities of Liverpool or Leeds?