The University of Winchester

The University of Winchester was established in 1840, and it combines this heritage with innovative learning and teaching. The University is located in Winchester one of the most beautiful cathedral cities in the UK.  

Background and History

The origins of the University of Winchester began in 1840 when the Winchester Diocesan Training School was founded as a Church of England foundation for the training of elementary schoolmasters. The school was initially quite small, located in a house at 27 St Swithun Street, Winchester. In 1847 the school moved to Wolvesey, the Bishop's Palace, where it became Winchester Training College. Following an outbreak of cholera at Wolvesey a new building (now the main building on the university's King Alfred Campus) was established for the college in 1862, on land granted by the cathedral at West Hill, Winchester. The college was renamed King Alfred's College in 1928.

Location and Accessibility

Winchester is a small but lively city offering an array of award-winning pubs and bars that provide an ideal setting for a night out. It has more than its fair share of cafes and restaurants and so there is something to suit all budgets and tastes. Many of the familiar high street shops are in Winchester mixed in with some unique independent shops and boutiques. It also plays host to Hampshire's Farmers Market which attracts some interesting culinary providers and celebrity chefs. The campus is within walking distance of the city centre - one hour away from London by train.

What's on Offer

A full range of undergratuate and postgraduate degrees including, BA, BEd, BSc, PGCE, LLB, MA, MSc, LLM, MTh, MRES, MEd, MPhil and PhD.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for undergraduate courses vary. For prospective Masters and PhD students a first or upper second class BA or Masters is required. For more information on entry requirements visit the university website.

University Accommodation

University accommodation is available on campus and in the West Downs Student Village nearby. The halls of residence are: West Downs Student Village, Alwyn Hall, St Elizabeth's Hall, Beech Glade, Queens Road Student Village, Burma Road Student Village. Student campus accommodation costs vary.

Faculties and Departments

The University of Winchester is divided into four different faculties: the Faculty of Arts, the Faculty of Business, Law and Sport, the Faculty of Education, Health and Social Care and the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Academic Strengths and Research Profile

The University of Winchester performed strongly in the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise, where 75% of its research was deemed to be of international standard.  

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees vary depending on the course of study and whether you wish to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level. Fees are also likely to be considerably higher for international than UK/EU students. For a full list of fees it is advisable to contact the university directly or visit their website.  

Financial Support

A range of different bursaries and scholarships are available to full-time undergraduate students from the UK/EU. For more information see the university website.

 

Academic Facilities

The library offers facilities for learning and research, with study spaces for more than 450 readers, of which over 100 are equipped with computers. There are also seven study rooms which can booked for group work sessions. The online catalogue and virtual enquiry desk links students to the services, databases and electronic resources needed for study and research.  

Other on-site Amenities

The University's student union is based in the University Centre. It organises club nights, comedy, quizzes and live music. There is also a cinema with a dedicated programme of films. A variety of clubs, societies and associations are run in the Student Union, offering the chance to get involved in a wide range of activities. The University also has an all weather pitch which is floodlit to allow for evening play and is used throughout the week by a number of hockey teams, 5-a-side leagues and private bookings.

Medical and Social Care

Students are advised to register with a local GP in the area. The university has a Chapel, a Muslim Prayer Room and a dedicated Faith Space that can be used by people from all faith groups. There is also an established Chaplaincy and a large Christian Union

What's on in the Area

Just an hour away from London, the medieval city of Winchester is famed for its Cathedral and is steeped in history. The city has a thriving restaurant and cafe culture, as well as some great bars and pubs. Having inspired writers like Jane Austen and John Keats, Winchester is a very beautiful city and has a great arts scene, with a variety of theatres and arts festivals throughout the year, meaning culture vultures will never be bored.

Moving On

Graduates of the University of Winchester are invited to use the Careers Service and can make use of individual guidance appointments or contact staff via email or telephone.

The city and its surrounding district have inspired literary classics by Jane Austen and John Keats. King Arthur's legendary Round Table has been on display in Winchester Cathedral for the past 700 years. Jane Austen and many of the early English Kings are buried in Winchester Cathedral which is over 900 years old.