Buckinghamshire New University

Buckingham New University (BNU) is a forward-thinking higher education institution that is noted for its hybrid approach to learning and strong student rankings. The university recently placed 11th in the country in the 2022 Whatuni Student Choice Awards, reflecting student satisfaction with the university’s postgraduate programmes, facilities and support services. 

Buckingham New University’s history begins in 1891, when it was established as the School of Science and Art. The institution developed throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, and in 1999 was awarded University College status. In 2007, it gained full university status and adopted its present name. 

Today, it is a diverse academic community that welcomes scholars and students from around the world and all walks of life. Learners come together across three distinct campuses and other sites across four towns located around London. With free inter-campus buses and great rail and road links to the capital city, it’s an exciting place to learn. Each campus has a different disciplinary focus and offers specialist facilities including aviation simulators, TV and film studios, medical facilities and more. 

Students living in High Wycombe, Uxbridge or Aylesbury can enjoy the peace, safety and comfort of town living in the south east of England, while benefiting from frictionless access to London and everything it has to offer. Whether students are budding creatives, scientists, medical professionals or something else, London is a hub for graduate opportunities. Combined with the university’s robust support services, BNU students are well placed to succeed in their careers. 

Buckingham New University offers dozens of postgraduate and professional courses across a wide range of subject areas. The university recognises the value of effective postgraduate education in driving up graduate salaries, career prospects and job security. 

Students can be confident in achieving their academic potential due to the university’s industry-standard facilities, connections to regional and national businesses, specialised work spaces and academic support services. 

In addition to full master’s degrees including MA, MBA and MSc qualifications, students can explore a range of two-semester PGDip or one-semester PGCert courses. A number of professional and continuing professional development (CPD) courses further widen options for working students who are looking to take the next step in their careers. 

The university offers part-time study patterns across many of its master’s courses, giving students the flexibility to gain a qualification alongside other commitments. There are also online master’s degrees, so learners can gain a valuable qualification from the comfort of their own home. 

Buckingham New University requires prospective students to meet the entry requirements of their chosen postgraduate programme before they can enrol. These admissions criteria will relate to academic qualifications, but may also encompass professional experience and qualifications, in addition to interviews and portfolio submissions. 

For example, applicants to the MSc or PGDip in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy will typically need to have an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, such as psychology. A minimum of two years of graduate work experience in a relevant mental health or vulnerable adult setting is also required. 

Students applying to the MA in 3D Animation should be able to demonstrate achievement of a 2:2 grade or higher at undergraduate level, in animation or a related area. Applicants with sufficient professional experience in lieu of academic qualifications will also be considered. Submission of a portfolio and completion of an interview is also required. 

Applicants to the MBA in International Business Administration will need to have an undergraduate honours degree, or equivalent, as well as a minimum of two years’ professional experience in a professional managerial role. 

Entry requirements can change over time, so students are encouraged to check with the university before applying. 

Postgraduate students at Buckingham New University are supported in maximising their professional potential through a variety of ways. 

Programmes of study at the university are built with industry relevance in mind, reflected by the regularly updated and applied nature of each curriculum. Training around the latest theories, debates, processes and tools of each discipline allow students to graduate with the capacity to transition seamlessly into the work of work. As a result, prospective employers value BNU graduates. 

The university is also a member of the Placements Plus scheme, which guarantees that students are able to explore and access a wealth of relevant and exciting professional placement opportunities. As a result, students can cultivate real industry experience, make valuable networking connections and apply their new knowledge and skills in a real-world setting. 

Students can access a range of additional resources and services to boost their employability, including Skills for Work Training. The university’s careers team work to link students with prospective internships and graduate roles, as well as a range of events including careers fairs and skill-building events. 

Accommodation

Postgraduate students can choose from two university-managed halls of residence which are located in High Wycombe. Good transport connections between the university’s sites means that students across all campuses can enjoy the modern, well-equipped accommodation at High Wycombe. 

With no deposit payment necessary, bills and other expenses included in the cost of rent, and 24 hour security and support services, choosing university-managed halls is a great option for postgraduate students. 

University accommodation is self-catered, and there are more than 800 rooms on offer in total. Shared bathroom, en-suite and studio apartment room types are available, ranging in price from £82 to £188 per week. 

It’s common for postgraduate students to opt for privately rented accommodation while they study at Buckingham New University. It’s a good option for students who want to live close to their campus in Uxbridge or Aylesbury, or live together with friends.  

The university has partnerships with particular private halls of residence, assuring the quality of the accommodation available, but students can also explore a large range of individually rented properties. With central London just a short journey away, the towns hosting BNU campuses are great for students who want to enjoy the lifestyle offered by the capital without the expense or stress. 

Buckingham New University offers its postgraduate students access to a variety of scholarships, bursaries and award to help them fund their studies. Different funding opportunities are typically awarded according to academic achievement, household income or other personal circumstances. 

Some of the available scholarships and bursaries include: 

• The BNU alumni postgraduate fee discount, which provides a discount of up to 50% for students who have already graduated from a course at the university. 
• Social Work Bursaries, which are available to students on the MSc in Social Work. It is awarded as a payment towards tuition fees and may vary in value. Other additional financial assistance is also available subject to conditions. 
• The BNU Hardship Fund, which offers means-assessed financial support for students to overcome barriers to education and support academic success. Grant payments can be paid to students in response to financial emergencies, or a lack of essential funds from other sources. 

Eligibility criteria for funding may change over time and application deadlines vary. Students can explore the full range of funding options on the university’s website.