When you’re choosing a university, it’s always worth reading up about different unis’ reputations and their city’s student life in advance. So if you’re thinking about Brighton, you’ll no doubt want to know – is Brighton University good and what is it like to study there? Our guide breaks it down for you, discussing everything from entry requirements to prestige to studying in Brighton city.
Is the Uni of Brighton prestigious?
Many people believe the Russell Group universities are the most prestigious, and judge unis according to whether they’re in the Group or not. The University of Brighton is not part of the Russell Group (you can find out which are the best and worst Russell Group unis here), however it does actively collaborate and participate in projects with them.
In terms of awards and other rankings, the University of Brighton seems to be getting better and better. It rose from 92nd place to the 70th in the Guardian’s 2024 national league table and up to 68th from 81st in the Complete University Guide 2024 table. Although this can seem quite far from the top of the list, some of the individual qualities of the Uni of Brighton really make it a good option. For example, 91.4% of students go on to find work or further study, and it came in the top 10 UK unis for various individual subject areas such as physiotherapy, aerospace engineering, sports science, economics and education.
So while it might not be a world-famous uni comparable to the likes of Oxbridge, if you’re asking whether the University of Brighton is any good depending on how prestigious it is, it’s worth thinking about some of the individual course areas and graduate prospects.
It’s also considered less prestigious than Sussex uni, which is a Russell Group – but find out how they compare here.
Is it hard to get into Brighton University?
Compared to other unis, Brighton University is a fairly easy uni to get into. It has an acceptance rate of 72%, where you’ll typically need A Levels or equivalent to get on to the course you want to study. They might also need to be specific A Levels – for example, courses in engineering or science might demand higher grades in relevant subjects like mathematics or physics. The university also considers vocational qualifications and work experience for mature students, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants.
One of the great things about applying to the uni of Brighton is that they have a flexible admissions policy. This means that they consider each applicant’s individual educational and personal situation when making a decision. In this way, it’s less heavy on grades than some other unis as they’ll take into account personal factors that may have played a role in how well you did at college. This is probably why the Uni of Brighton also made it to 11th place for ‘value added’ uni, which takes compares students entry grades with their university graduate grades.
Overall, while Brighton University maintains standards to ensure academic quality, it is generally considered to be more accessible than some of the highly selective universities in the UK. Prospective students who meet the entry requirements and demonstrate a genuine interest in their chosen field of study have a good chance of being admitted.
What is the University of Brighton known for?
The University of Brighton is known for being good in particular subjects, such as paramedic science and physiotherapy, as well as art and design and education. It’s also one of those unis that’s really focused on building practical skills, rather than just all theories and abstract knowledge. So you’ll be able to apply the skills to a career later on.
Some other fun facts about the University of Brighton include its notable alumni; DJ Norman Cook, aka Fatboy Slim, comic actor Chris Barrie, children’s author Sue Hendra, and artist Jesse Waugh all studied there.
What’s the history of Brighton uni?
The University of Brighton’s story begins in 1859 with the opening of the new School of Art in the coastal town, starting with just 110 pupils. Fast forward to the late 1970s, it became Brighton Polytechnic and later merged with East Sussex College of Higher Education, before finally achieving university status in 1992, focusing on professional education.
In 2006, a partnership with Ricardo UK led to the creation of the Sir Harry Ricardo Laboratories, a hub for research on internal combustion engines and laser-based measurement techniques. By 2011, the University of Brighton Doctoral College was established, nurturing a vibrant community of over 500 postgraduate research students. That same year, the International College opened its doors, offering preparatory programs for international students aiming to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
Today, the university serves more than 20,000 students across five campuses: three in Brighton (Grand Parade, Moulsecoomb, and Falmer), and one each in Eastbourne and Hastings. Grand Parade, situated in the city centre, is the heart of the arts and humanities. Moulsecoomb, the largest campus, hosts a variety of departments including maths, life sciences, and geography. Falmer, located four miles from the city, is home to future nurses, teachers, social scientists, and linguists.
Is Brighton a good place to study?
Brighton itself is a massive selling point for the university. Known for its bohemian spirit, LGBTQ+ friendly environment, and an all-around inclusive vibe, the city is a really fun place to be a student. The city is brimming with clubs, bars, unique shops, quirky cafes, and more. From music festivals and art galleries to street performances and theatre productions, there is always something happening. Students can immerse themselves in the local arts scene or explore the array of independent boutiques and vintage stores.
Plus, it’s by the sea! Imagine taking a break from your studies to stroll along the beach or grabbing some fish and chips on the pier. The sea air and coastal views provide a refreshing backdrop to student life, promoting a healthy work-life balance – or you know a place to go naturist swimming after a night out :/
Another great thing about studying in Brighton is its size. It’s much smaller than big cities like London, making it more manageable and accessible. It offers the perks of city living without the overwhelming hustle and bustle of larger cities. Public transport is efficient, with buses and trains making it easy to get around town or even visit London for a day trip.
Additionally, the city’s focus on sustainability and green living aligns with modern values, attracting environmentally conscious students. There are numerous parks and green spaces to relax in, and the South Downs National Park is just a short trip away for those who enjoy hiking and outdoor activities.
Find out more about what you can do in the city in our Brighton student city guides.
The downsides
No place is perfect, and Brighton Uni is no exception. Some students have mentioned that the administration can be a bit slow at times, and the cost of living in Brighton is a common gripe. Additionally, if you’re not a fan of the beach (is that even possible?), the coastal weather might not be your cup of tea. But yeh as you can tell – we’re punching a bit here trying to find bad stuff.
So is Brighton University good?
So, is Brighton University good? In a word: yes. It’s a dynamic, inclusive, and forward-thinking institution in one of the UK’s most exciting cities. The combination of academic excellence, a vibrant student life, and the unique charm of Brighton makes it a fantastic choice for many students.
Brighton University isn’t just about hitting the books. The student life here is buzzing with activities. There are over a hundred student societies and sports clubs to choose from. Whether you’re into debating, dancing, or dragon boating, there’s something for everyone. And let’s not forget the nightlife. Brighton’s nightlife is legendary. With a plethora of pubs, clubs, and live music venues, there’s always something going on. The university itself hosts events throughout the year, from fresher’s week to end-of-term parties.
But choosing a university is a deeply personal decision. What’s great for one person might not be ideal for another. Take the time to visit, talk to current students, and really get a feel for the place. Brighton University has a lot to offer, but it’s up to you to decide if it’s the right fit.
5 tips for prospective students
Before we wrap this up, here are some tips for prospective students considering Brighton University
- Visit the campus: If possible, attend an open day. There’s no substitute for experiencing the place in person.
- Talk to current students: Get the inside scoop from those who are already there. They can provide invaluable insights.
- Explore the city: Spend some time in Brighton to see if you like the vibe. It’s a quirky, lively city with a lot to offer.
- Check out the courses: Make sure they offer the course you want and check out the modules to see if they align with your interests.
- Consider accommodation options: Look into where you’ll live and factor that into your decision.
