Stafford College

Address and Location

Staffordshire University is split across two of Stoke-on-Trent's six towns, Stafford and Stoke. The institution also runs two co-funded centres in Lichfield and Shrewsbury.

Background and History

Staffordshire University has gone through a series of evolutions since its foundation in 1992. Renowned for its commitment to student development, course variety and high-quality teaching, the university is currently undergoing a £282 million campus-transformation project.

Location and Accessibility

By Road: Staffordshire University is easily reached from all parts of the UK. The M6 provides the quickest route into the university's main campus in Stoke-on-Trent. Exit the motorway at Junction 15 and follow the A500 towards Stoke. From the A500, turn onto the A5006 or A52 and then take Station Road. At the roundabout, turn onto College Road and head towards the university.

By Rail: Stoke-on-Trent Station is serviced by routes from all major cities.

Accessibility: Staffordshire advises students with specific needs to note them on their UCAS application. This allows the university's Disability Support to organise any necessary support services.

What's on Offer

BA, BSc, MA, MSc, MBA, PGCE, LLB, LLM, MPhil, PhD

Entry Requirements

Students accepted onto a degree course at Staffordshire will normally have at least two A-Levels, Scottish Advanced Highers or equivalent. Prospective students are advised to check the specific entry requirements for their course.

University Accommodation

Staffordshire offers university accommodation at its Leek Road and Beaconside sites.

Private Accommodation

The university works with landlords in the area and advertises all university-approved options on its Studentpad platform. Prices in Stafford are highest; Lower Shelton offers more affordable options.

Academic Strengths and Research Profile

In recent years Staffordshire has transformed itself into one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking learning institutions in the UK. The university now offers many of its courses online and at partner institutions overseas. In recent surveys, the majority of Staffordshire's research in the arts, media and design has been found to be of national' and international standard,' while 90 per cent of the university's engineering research was ranked as world-class.

Tuition Fees

In 2014, undergraduate courses cost £8,610 per year. Fees for international students, postgraduates and foundational degrees vary according to course.

Financial Support: Staffordshire provides a number of non-repayable grants for students experiencing financial hardship. The university also manages a range of scholarships that prospective students are encouraged to apply for.

Academic Facilities

Staffordshire has libraries and service desks at its Stoke, Stafford and Shrewsbury campuses, some of which are open 24 hours a day. The university also boasts IT Learning Centres at all of its sites and PC workstations for visually-impaired and dyslexic users. Wi-fi is provided across all campuses.

Other on-site Amenities

Both the Stoke and Stafford campuses have sports facilities open to students, staff andthelocal community. Each campus is home to an array of cafs and restaurants.

Medical and Social Care

Staffordshire has an Student Information Centre at its Stafford and Stoke campuses, providing students with the advice they need to get the most out of university life. A multi-faith chaplaincy offers guidance to staff and students of all backgrounds.

The university provides NHS services at two Student Health Centres, while the Student Enabling Centres offers counselling by specialist student advisors.

What's on in the Area

Southwest of the Peak District and fondly known as The Potteries', Stoke-on-Trent is one of the most picturesque regions in the Midlands. Alton Towers is close enough for a day trip, as are Manchester and Birmingham.

Moving On

Staffordshire's Careers Centre offers free, impartial advice to all students of the university. The experienced team works closely with industry partners to foster opportunities for graduate employment. The centre also advertises job opportunities through its JobZone online service.

The low cost of living in Stoke and Stafford makes Staffordshire one of the most affordable universities in the UK.Honorary graduates of the university include polar explorer Ann Daniels, BBC journalist Alan Johnston and 1966 World Cup hero Gordon Banks. Meanwhile, the town's most famous sons are Robbie Williams and Lemmy from Motorhead.

Is Staffordshire University the place for you?

Flexible study options and weekends spent in the Peak District make Staffordshire an attractive choice for new undergraduates. If art galleries and cosmopolitan living are what you seek from student life, then more suitable options exist elsewhere (try Nottingham Trent, for starters). Staffordshire shines on its own merits, nonetheless.