The University of Reading has a single aim: to make the world a better place for all.
By helping to tackle global challenges – from the climate crisis, sustainability, and world hunger, to natural disasters, mental health, and the pandemic – they are working towards everyone’s tomorrow, a mission in which their students are integral.
For students who are passionate about delivering a brighter future, for everyone and everything, Reading is a university that’s doing something about it.
The university believes that learning goes beyond the transfer of knowledge, and they strive to continually increase their global reach. Their research – 98% of which is rated of international standing in the Research Excellence Framework 2014 – has real-world impact and can directly benefit students’ learning. The discoveries made one day could be heard in lecture theatres the next.
There are more than 250 courses to choose from across a wide range of subjects, with many available as joint honours programmes allowing students to broaden their horizons and maximise their potential. Placement opportunities are plentiful and ensure Reading students stand out over their competitors in the job market.
The university is set across three spectacular campuses, each providing a truly inspirational environment in which to live and study. The main Whiteknights campus, set amongst 130 hectares of stunning parkland, is one of the UK’s top green spaces, receiving nine consecutive Green Flag awards.
University of Reading Students on Whatuni say:
“Very enjoyable, I like the structure of a timetable and so far have really enjoyed the different lectures. The social side has been good and my time in halls has been great.”
“Overall I've enjoyed my uni experience, the course is interesting and engaging, and socially the university provides a lot of societies etc. so I am never bored.”
“Really happy, it has made me more independent and I have a clear future plan.”
The University of Reading offers over 250 degree programmes to support a wide range of career aspirations, in subjects spanning the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
For students with more than one passion they want to pursue, the university offers many joint honours courses, enabling students to broaden their horizons and explore multiple pathways. Most courses also have a modular structure, giving students more control over what they study and how they study it and allowing them to specialise in the areas that interest them most while still developing core subject knowledge.
And for students who want to pursue their passion, but lack the necessary qualities to do so, the university provides a number of courses with an integrated foundation year. This extra introductory year will prepare students for studying their subject at a higher level.
Many courses also come with integrated work placement years, designed to help students develop the skills and experience that will help boost their employability when they graduate.
Courses are taught by passionate academics, many of whom are actively working at the forefront of research in their chosen field, and are informed by the world-leading research being undertaken on campus.
Class sizes are kept small wherever possible, which provide students with a more personalised learning experience. All students also receive a range of accessible academic support.
University of Reading Students on Whatuni say:
“There is a lot of flexibility within the course with very few compulsory modules giving students the chance to build their own degree. I really enjoyed that I can take most modules offered in the department whether they are ecology/zoology based to more biomed/microbiology focused.”
“Like that lectures can be available online and done in person. Additionally, a good level of 1-2-1 contact with lecturers.”
“Lecturers are always available and you can also record some of their lectures which is really helpful.”
Interested? Order a prospectus to find out more about the uni and the courses on offer.
GET PROSPECTUSEach degree programme has its own entry requirements. Not only will students need to have specific grades to be accepted onto their preferred course, for some courses those grades will need to come from specific subject areas (e.g. science, mathematics).
The university accepts a number of qualifications, including A-Levels, International, European, and Welsh Baccalaureates, BTEC National Diplomas, Open University credits, and Access to HE Diplomas.
For students who do not meet the entry requirements to pursue their chosen course, the university offers a number of Foundation programmes. These programmes have lower entry requirements and will provide students with a direct pathway into their chosen career.
For information on course entry requirements, head to the individual course pages on the university’s website.
Send a message directly to the uni to learn more about their entry requirements.
ASK A QUESTIONStudents can choose from a range of safe, modern, and well-equipped catered and self-catered accommodation on campus.
In self-catered halls, student can choose between standard (shared bathroom), en-suite, and premium en-suite bedrooms. In every self-catered hall is a well-equipped shared kitchen/dining area.
Catered halls offer both standard (shared bathroom) and en-suite bedrooms. The flexible catering package allows students to eat at the shared catering facility in the halls or at other outlets on campus.
There are quieter-lifestyle flats, single-gender flats, and a number of adapted rooms for students with disabilities. Accommodation is also available for families and mature students.
For peace of mind, all halls have dedicated security patrols, CCTV, and friendly, experienced staff wardens on hand. There’s also a 24-hour Halls Hotline which deals quickly and efficiently with any issues that may arise.
Each hall is run by a committee of students – who have previously lived in halls – who help students settle in, and arrange social events throughout the year.
Rent prices are all-inclusive, so utility bills, Wi-Fi, communal cleaning, and basic contents insurance are included. The university offers flexibility with a limited number of 38-week accommodation contracts alongside standard 40-week and 51-week contracts.
Living costs
Between £4,520 - £5,960 per annum.
University of Reading Students on Whatuni say:
“Fairly safe considering Reading is a large town, condition is good, location is great and cost is inexpensive.”
“Wessex is a great accommodation, and I would definitely recommend living here, the fact its shared bathroom often puts people off but I would say go for it!”
The university continually invests in its academic facilities, with new technology and specialist equipment to keep its teaching and research at the forefront of discovery.
Some of the leading academic facilities on campus include chemistry and biomedical laboratories equipped with cutting-edge equipment, dedicated film studios with post-production suites, extensive art studios and workshops, and even an on-campus Museum of Zoology.
To support students’ independent learning, the university recently completed a major £40m refurbishment and now features extra solo and group study spaces and greater accessibility. It is open 24-7 during term time and houses over one million books, alongside fully-equipped computer rooms.
In addition to academic facilities, the University of Reading Sports Park is open to all students (membership is free). It is home to a state of the art fitness studio, a sports hall with badminton, volleyball, basketball, squash, and tennis courts, and several outdoor football, hockey, rugby, and lacrosse pitches.
Other non-academic facilities on campus include a medical practice and dental surgery, a hairdresser, retail outlets, and several cafes and bars in which to socialise.
The university has a number of initiatives to ensure students can relax and feel secure in halls and on campus, including regular security patrols and a dedicated emergency number.
University of Reading Students on Whatuni say:
“Generally really good, would prefer more food spaces, however the newly renovated library is amazing. Additionally if you want to find somewhere to study in peace or do group work and you haven't booked a room the university provides a free room finder, which lets you know what classrooms are empty in any building that is free for students to use to study in.”
“The new library is excellent.”
“Library is my favourite place it is larger than other unis.”
Find out more about the accommodations and facilities in person at the uni.
BOOK OPEN DAYWhat's it like to study at this institution? Current students and alumni share their opinion...
VIEW 1793 REVIEWS WRITE A REVIEWM Michael Reviewed 06 Mar 24 MSc Nutrition and Food Science Community... READ FULL REVIEW
A Alice Reviewed 29 Feb 24 Pharmacology BSc (Hons) Campus is very homely and feels safe,Stem student facilities are pretty good though more lecture theatres need plugs and societies can be quite extreme.... READ FULL REVIEW
For academic support, students will be allocated a tutor for any queries throughout the year. The university also runs a STaR mentorship programme, where new students can get advice from current second and third-year students who are studying the same course. There is also student-led support on a wide range of issues – both academic and personal – available through the Students’ Union.
Student Support Coordinators can be found at Support Centres in every one of Reading’s schools. They are there to assist students with any queries they may have about student life. In addition, the university’s Student Welfare Team are on hand to provide support with any personal or wellbeing issues, including relationship issues, coping with workload, or any instances of homesickness.
For students with more serious problems, the university employs a dedicated team of counsellors and mental health advisors who students can go to for specialist support. There is also specialist support for students with disabilities, care leavers, international students, and those who are struggling financially.
University of Reading Students on Whatuni say:
“The support is excellent and personal tutors are always prepared to meet with you at a moment's notice.”
“Academic tutor is amazing.”
“My academic tutor makes an effort to always check in with us and arranges necessary lessons when clashes occur in timetable.”
Find out more about the student support offered on the university’s website.
VISIT WEBSITEThe University of Reading attracts not only the highest-calibre students, as many of the world’s leading academics choose to work at the university. They are recognised for engaging and inspiring their students through their teaching, while their cutting-edge research not only has a real-world impact, but also directly informs and benefits students’ learning.
For example, Professor Matthew Almond has been sharing his enthusiasm for chemistry at the University of Reading for 30 years. His commitment to education has earned him National Teaching Fellow status, a prestigious award given in recognition of outstanding impact on the student learning experience.
Another lecturer having a positive impact on the world is Professor Hannah Cloke OBE, from the Department of Geography and Environmental Science, and Department of Meteorology. She has developed new techniques to improve early-warning systems in flood-prone areas, helping people to prepare for floods and, as a result, save lives.
Alongside her research, for which she won a Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) Impact Award, she has advised the UK government and helps to shape environmental policy across the world.
Reading University Students’ Union (RUSU) is an independent organisation, run by students, for students, which aims to help all students make the most of their experience studying at Reading. All students automatically become a member upon enrolment.
An important part of the RUSU’s work is to campaign on behalf of its student members on a range of topics – to create a better university experience for everyone. Not only does this involve campaigning for university policy changes, the RUSU works to create positive behavioural changes amongst the student body. An example of this hard work is the RUSU’s LGBT+ society, which won ‘LGBT Event of the Year' at this year's National Union of Students LGBT+ Conference.
In addition to campaigning, the RUSU also provides free, confidential, and non-judgemental advice and support on a range of issues students may face, including housing, money and welfare advice.
The RUSU also provides plenty of volunteering and job opportunities and runs over 150 sports clubs and societies to enhance students’ university experience.
The RUSU is home to a selection of retail outlets, cafes, bars, and a huge nightclub/live music venue for students to socialise in.
University of Reading Students on Whatuni say:
“The student representation is excellent specifically within courses, never feel uncomfortable to discuss any issues or problem that want to be dealt with, with the student reps.”
“SU is always open to everyone and the events are cool.”
“Really good club at the union.”
There are more than 150 clubs and societies for students to join at Reading. Through these societies, students can meet like-minded people who share the same interests, take part in events, and learn new skills.
There are 56 sports and dance clubs. Sports range from American football, cricket, and rugby, to caving, clay pigeon shooting, and yogalates. Dance clubs cover disciplines such as ballet, ballroom, and Zumba.
Many of the university’s sports teams participate successfully in leagues and competitions, including the annual Varsity event against Oxford Brookes.
Societies are based around academic interests, campaigns and causes, faith and culture, and the arts. Examples of the current societies on offer include: Chess, games and role-play, sign language, song-writing, and zero waste.
There is also a student newspaper and TV and radio station which students can get involved with. Student interns have the opportunity to work behind the scenes with the Press Team – for example, as social media bloggers and photographers – getting the opportunity to shadow professionals and create original online content for the university’s social media channels.
If none of the clubs are of interest, students can also find support to create their own.
University of Reading Students on Whatuni say:
“Huge variety of societies and sports, campus gym is conveniently located too.”
“They are all inclusive- great for trying new sports/ hobbies.”
“Lots of variety and places to get involved.”
Reading is bustling town with a diverse community and is a great place to live as a student.
The town’s riverside area is the heart of Reading’s social scene, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Many bars across the town have student nights with special offers, and when the night is over, the 24-hour bus services will whisk students home to campus.
Music lovers will love Reading, which is home to one of the biggest music festivals in the UK: Reading Festival. For several years, the university has worked with the festival to allow groups of students the chance of a lifetime to report live from backstage, interviewing festival-goers and artists. The town also hosts many other festivals throughout the year, dedicated to jazz music, comedy, and food and drink. There are also a range of theatres and venues for live comedy and music.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace of life, Reading is home to a number of beautiful parks, some of which have the River Thames flowing through them, making them a hive for wildlife.
Reading has excellent transport links too. London is less than an hour away by train and it’s also easy to travel to cities such as Bristol, Bath, Cardiff, and Oxford.
Cost of a pint
£2.80 - £3.50 per pint
University of Reading Students on Whatuni say:
“Yes. Nice walk to campus, easy to get around.”
“It is very close to the town and allowing the local bus routes to run through the uni campus enables ease of access to all local amenities.”
“Reading is a nice town and you are only a train ride (approx. 27 mins) from London.”
See the campus and city for yourself in person by booking an open day place.
BOOK OPEN DAY93% of Reading graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating and of those in full-time work, 84% are in graduate-level roles (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2017/18).
There are many ways in which the university supports students in maximising their potential and becoming more employable after graduation. This includes offering placement options to students on every course, whether it’s a short-term work placement or spending a full year working in their chosen industry. These opportunities not only give students the chance to gain valuable professional experience, but help to boost their confidence. Every course also includes an element on career management.
In addition to this, the Reading Experience and Development (RED) Award has been created to offer students the chance to develop new skills and gain experience through a variety of activities – including volunteering and training.
A dedicated careers team are on hand to help students with all stages of their job hunt, from writing CVs to arranging mock interviews. There is also a Reading Internship Scheme, offering paid, project-based internships, and Thrive, a career mentoring programme, which helps students transition from university life to employment.
Regular career events are also held at the university, aimed at supporting students to find a career path that’s right for them.
University of Reading Students on Whatuni say:
“Specific careers advisors for every course, who run sessions aimed at your course and with whom you can meet whenever. Additional university wide seminars and lectures about work placements and transferable skills are available year round.”
“Very good careers centre and loads of careers talk.”
“Placements in my degree have been amazing!! Very pleased.”
The University of Reading firmly believes that money concerns shouldn’t be a barrier to accessing education and make every effort to ensure that students can study there, whatever their financial circumstances.
A range of loans and bursaries are available, details of which can be found on the university’s website. These services are available to students whether they are applying for support before they start at the university or while they’re there.
Examples of scholarships include:
Rowing Scholarships
Talented rowers who show a genuine chance of being selected for RUBC’s top teams or a chance of reaching the Olympic Games will be eligible for one of two rowing scholarships worth a maximum of £4,000 or £5,000.
The Jordans and Prince’s Countryside Fund Agriculture Bursary
Students studying a BSc Agriculture or BSc Agricultural Business Management course can apply for a bursary of £3,000 in their first year and a further £1,000 in their second and third years of study to support their studies.
Care Experienced and Estrangement Bursary
£1,000 per academic year is available for Home students under the age of 25 who have spent time in the care of their local authority at some point in their life.
Reading Real Estate Foundation
Students studying one of three undergraduate Real Estate & Planning courses at Henley Business School will be eligible to apply for an award up to £15,000 to support their studies.
Fees for UK and Republic of Ireland students starting an undergraduate course in 2022 are £9,250 per year for the full course duration.
Fees for International students starting an undergraduate course in 2022 are split into two bands. Fees for Band 1 subjects (non-laboratory courses) are £16,890 and fees for Band 2 subjects (courses with laboratory work) are £20,315. Certain courses do fall out of these bands and incur a premium course fee. See individual course pages for details.
From August 2022, new EU students will pay International tuition fees.
Year Abroad and Placement/Sandwich Year Fees
For students starting courses in 2022/23 that include a year abroad option (either working abroad or studying at a host university) or a placement/sandwich year, a discounted fee that is 15% lower than the normal yearly tuition fee will be payable for this year.
In addition to the course fees, payable to the university, there may be additional costs incurred during the course of studying. These costs include: textbooks, printing and photocopying, specialist materials, specialist clothing or PPE, and field trips.
Send a message directly to the uni to learn more about their scholarships and bursaries.
ASK A QUESTION
As well as a wide range of courses, studying at University of Reading offers you loads of opportunities to boost your CV thanks to the careers department. You might even have the chance to do a work placement or sandwich year during your degree.
As well as providing you with opportunities to develop academically and professionally, you'll have a wide range of clubs and societies to join. You'll be able to pick up a new hobby and make loads of new friends by joining some of the clubs and societies on offer at University of Reading.
The world is your oyster! Of course, the exact options open to you will depend on which subject you choose to study. Employers often look to hire graduates, so you can be sure that your degree will give you a wider range of employment opportunities.
No matter what degree you choose, however, you'll have option of going on to further study. If you want to keep studying, your undergraduate degree will enable you to go on to a master's degree or even a PhD.
If you opt to live in uni halls, you'll benefit from free WiFi and all-inclusive rent. Rent for uni halls also includes security and maintenance, so you can be sure you'll be well-looked after. There are several accessible rooms available, which are adapted for disabled students.
Halls also have communal areas such as kitchen facilities where you can meet your flatmates over a cup of tea. You'll also have access to dining facilities where you can share a meal with other students in your accommodation.
