Best universities for a master’s in Bristol

Bristol is an excellent place for master’s students looking to study somewhere which offers the bustle of a big city while maintaining a close-knit community. The most populated city in the south west of England, Bristol is filled with independent shops, cafes, restaurants, entertainment venues and more, while also having its fair share of museums and galleries. The rolling hills of the English countryside can be found just a short distance outside of the city, too. Bristol has good rail connections to London and other hubs across the country, and Bristol Airport allows for trips further afield. Bristol is also home to several universities that are well-regarded for postgraduate studies in a variety of subjects. 

CONTENTS

• Which universities are in Bristol?
• University of Bristol
• University of the West of England, Bristol
• Bristol Old Vic Theatre School
• Entry requirements
• What is there to do in Bristol?

Which universities are in Bristol?

University of Bristol

The University of Bristol was established in 1876 and since then it has offered students in the south west a place to study for a wide variety of qualifications. The main campus is located in Clifton, surrounded by a mixture of classic and modern architecture and a short distance away from the Clifton Suspension Bridge. 

A member of the Russell Group of universities, the University of Bristol places a big focus on its research strength. This allows students the chance to stand out in their field and learn from curricula influenced by its exceptional research. Supported by over 30 Doctoral Training Centres, the university has a large range of research courses for students, including PhD and research-based master’s programmes. Taught master’s and shorter courses like PGDips and PGCerts are also available. 

The University of Bristol’s facilities include nine libraries, a recently redeveloped indoor sports centre, a geology museum, its own botanic garden and more. It offers guaranteed accommodation to postgraduate students if their application is submitted before the deadline. The university has an impressive graduate employment rate, and its Careers Services provide students with a wealth of resources to help them find a job after university. 

Go to: Search courses at University of Bristol

University of the West of England, Bristol

The University of the West of England, Bristol (UWE) is an ambitious institution with roots in educational partnerships and collaborations that date back to 1595. It's spread across three campuses – Frenchay Campus (four miles from the city centre), Glenside Campus (three miles from the city centre) and City Campus (in the city centre itself) – each one home to specialist facilities and amenities. 

UWE provides over 120 taught programmes as well as a host of research-based courses, spanning master’s, PhD, PGDips, PGCerts and Professional Development Awards which allow students to create their own course. With its progressive educational models and state-of-the-art facilities, and many courses being accredited by professional bodies and institutions, UWE prepares students to enter their careers competently and confidently. 

The university is well-equipped to teach valuable skills for a wide variety of professions with its range of facilities. This includes a replica hospital ward, mock courtrooms, a wind tunnel, broadcast studios, a financial trading room and more. UWE provides a wide variety of accommodation options to suit all needs and living arrangements. There is a focus on internships and placements for postgraduate studies at UWE, with a dedicated team of Placement Coordinators assisting students to find relevant industry experience, while the Careers Development team continues to help students with career skills workshops and guidance. 

Go to: Search courses at University of the West of England, Bristol

Bristol Old Vic Theatre School

Originally designed as a training school for the Bristol Old Vic Company, the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School attracts students from around the world to hone their acting, directing, designing and production skills. It’s based in three Edwardian buildings in Clifton, just beside the Clifton Downs green, with further facilities at the Christchurch Recording Studios and workshops on Sheene Road. 

Specialising in skills relating to the theatre, postgraduate students can expect to find a selection of intriguing master’s programmes at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. From MFA degrees in Professional Acting and Professional Voice Studies to MA courses in Screen Acting, Performance Design and Drama Directing, the school has prepared multiple Acadamy Awards winners and nominees with its expert tuition. 

The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School has plenty of facilities to enrich the teaching experience of its students. This includes the likes of dance, music, design and sound studios, a script library, scenery and prop workshops and even an armoury – everything a theatre student could need. The school also works with several local theatres around Bristol to put on performances. 

Go to: Search courses at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School

Entry Requirements

Each university and promgramme will have different entry requirements depending on a variety of considerations. Some courses may also require you to provide a portfolio of your work or complete an interview before you are accepted onto the course. For a more detailed look at your desired course’s entry requirements, please use our course finder tool or check out the university’s website. 

What is there to do in Bristol?

Outside of studying, Bristol offers a wide variety of activities for all tastes. From excellent food and drink options to countryside walks only a few bus stops away, you’ll always find something interesting to do in and around the city. 

Bristol is a hub for creativity and art, and there are plenty of opportunities for you to enjoy it. Yearly events like the Harbour Festival and regular gallery and museum exhibits give you the chance to get involved with the local community. The city is also packed with excellent gig venues like The Exchange, The Fleece and The Thekla, so you’ll always be able to find a good soundtrack to your night. 

There's no shortage of great pubs and bars in Bristol, and there are also many top restaurants across the city for you to enjoy a bite to eat in. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you’ll be particularly pleased that there are plenty of places for you to eat as well.  

Looking to get out and about? The stunning natural scenery across the south west is easily accessible from Bristol. Cheddar Gorge, Stonehenge, Glastonbury Tor, and miles of countryside and coastal walks are on Bristol’s doorstep. 

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