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The University of Bolton's Deane Campus is very small compared to many other universities, though this results in a compact, community feel. As the university puts it: with small teaching groups on many courses, you can be sure you are a name, not just a number.' The University also has another campus the Ras al Khaimah Campus in the United Arab Emirates, 45 minutes north of Dubai.

Background and History

The University of Bolton was founded in 2005, when it was approved by the Privy Council for university status. However, its origins go back to 1982, when Bolton Institute of Higher Education was formed.

Accessibility

Rail: The Deane Campus is just a two-minute walk away from Bolton station.

Road: Bolton is very easily accessible from the A666, M60, M61, M62. And it is also one of the few universities to have decent on-campus parking facilities.

Ease of access for disabled students: Most buildings and facilities are wheelchair friendly, and accommodation designed for people with disabilities is available.

What's on Offer

Undergraduate: BA, BSc, FdA, LLB, FdSc, BEng, BDes, MEng, HND.Postgraduate: MA, MSc, PgDip, PgCert, MPhil, PhD, MBA, MRes, PGDE, PDE.

Entry Requirements

Using the UCAS tariff system, entrance requirements to specific programmes vary but examples include:

Civil Engineering - BEng (Hons): 240 points from at least two A2-levels (or equivalent) including mathematics (or equivalent) or successful completion of the Engineering Foundation Year. General Studies is not included.

Mathematics - BSc (Hons): 260 points from at least two, but preferably three, A2-levels (or equivalent) including mathematics.

Sound Engineering Design - BSc (Hons): 260 points from at least two, but preferably three, A2-levels (or equivalent) including TWO from the following: a mathematical subject, a physical science subject, a technology-based subject or music.

University Accommodation

Incoming students have a choice between two University-owned, purpose built halls of residence (Orlando Village and The Hollins), both of which are self-catering. The two halls hold 700 single rooms, located close to the town centre and include free car parking. Rent is as cheap as it comes for first year accommodation: just £69.75 per week.

Private Accommodation

Alternatively, you may prefer a flat/house share if you don't fancy University accommodation. The most popular areas for house shares are Great Lever and Heaton. Again, rent prices are as competitive as you will find in the country.

Faculties and Departments

The University of Bolton has three faculties: The Faculty of Advanced Engineering and Sciences, the Faculty of Arts and Media Technologies and the Faculty of Well-Being and Social Sciences.

Academic Strengths and Research Profile

Having only been a university since 2005, the University of Bolton is still finding its feet' in terms of honing its research profile.

Tuition Fees

Undergraduate fees

Fees for UK/EU students vary depending on the course of study.

Postgraduate fees:

Fees for UK/EU students depending on the course of study. For some information contact the university.

Financial Support

Bursaries are available, based on household income. The system is linked to Student Finance England, meaning you don't have to apply for a bursary as your household income details (given as part of your student finance application) will be passed on to the University, who will then work out whether you are entitled to a bursary or not. The university also offers the Bolton Scholarship worth £730 per year to eligible students.

Academic Facilities

The University of Bolton's library provides all the essentials: books, electronic resources, study spaces and PC suites.

Other on-site Amenities

The University's student union provides an ideal way for students to get involved in university life, whether that means getting involved in the student committees, joining a sports society or going for a drink in the SU bar.

Medical and Social Care

There is no University-run health service, so make sure you register with a GP if you are moving into the area. However, the University does run a multi-faith chaplaincy.

What's On in the Area

Bolton has a modern town centre with the usual array of pubs, clubs, bars and restaurants. But look further in and you will also find the Octagon Theatre and Bolton Museum and Art Gallery. If you are a football fan, you will be able to watch Premier League football every other week at the Reebok Stadium, home to Bolton Wanderers FC (ticket prices are reasonable). Furthermore, if you fancy a change of scenery, cities such as Manchester are just a 20-minute train journey away.

Moving on

The University runs an extensive careers service, from giving CV advice to helping students find work experience and improve their employability. The service strives to help current students as well as graduates.

Did you know?

The majority of students come from Bolton or the North West.

The University's main academic strengths are Psychology, Education, Health Studies, Community Nursing, Textiles and Biological Sciences.

The Guardian named the University of Bolton as the fastest-growing university in 2010.

Is the University of Bolton the place for you?

Come to the University of Bolton if you want to experience a community feel and a teaching style that is tailored to you. It is fast-growing, but still compact.

Avoid if you want to enjoy the expansiveness of a big city. Plus, the University's league table ranking and, more concerning, degree completion rate is not the most impressive.

If you are looking for the hustle of living in a city, then take a look at universities with similar entry standards such as Manchester Metropolitan University and Liverpool John Moores University.