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In short
The University of Derby is a TEF Gold-rated institution in England offering over 300 programmes with strong industry links and excellent student accommodation. International undergraduate tuition fees are £16,900 per year, and various scholarships are available.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1851
- Students
- 14,000
- International students
- 2,800
- Acceptance rate
- 75%
- Tuition (intl)
- €11–19k/yr
- Languages
- ENGLISH
- Location
- United Kingdom
The University of Derby is a public university in Derby, England, offering more than 300 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across business, health, arts, engineering, and technology. It holds a TEF Gold rating for teaching excellence and is consistently rated highly for student satisfaction and graduate outcomes. The university's strong industry partnerships with employers such as the NHS, Rolls-Royce, and Toyota ensure students gain hands-on, career-ready experience. Derby's multiple campuses offer modern learning facilities alongside award-winning student accommodation.
Why study here
- TEF Gold-rated institution recognised for outstanding teaching quality and student outcomes
- Industry partnerships with NHS, Rolls-Royce, Toyota, and McDonald's provide real-world placement experience
- Ranked No.1 for student accommodation quality four consecutive years by Global Student Living Awards
- Careers support available up to three years after graduation, including workshops, placements, and networking
- Chancellor's Entrepreneurs' Club offers mentoring and business challenge opportunities with leading entrepreneurs
Student life
The University of Derby offers a vibrant student life with a range of events, including Welcome @ Derby and Freshers' Fair, especially at the start of the academic year. The university is recognised for its excellent accommodation. Students have access to various support services and opportunities to engage in clubs and societies. Research students benefit from a close-knit community of around 400 students and 300 staff, with networking and social events to foster connection.
Fees
InternationalFor most undergraduate courses starting in September 2025 or January 2026, international tuition fees are £16,900 per year. Accelerated degree courses may have higher fees. These fees are subject to change in line with government policy.
HomeFor most undergraduate courses, UK students starting in September 2025 or January 2026 will pay £9,535 per year. Accelerated degree courses may have higher fees.
LivingLiving costs are a separate consideration in addition to tuition fees. Students may be eligible for various loans, grants, bursaries, and scholarships depending on their residency and circumstances.
Tuition fees cover teaching, mandatory study trips, access to core library textbooks, and DBS checks for relevant courses. Some courses also include uniforms, specialist kit, or equipment. Optional study trips, additional kit, and travel for work placements are generally not included.
Admissions
Undergraduate entryA-levels (or equivalent international qualifications); specific grades vary by programme
Postgraduate entryBachelor's degree (2:2 or above) in a relevant subject
IELTS6.0 overall (no band below 5.5) for most undergraduate courses
TOEFL iBT80 overall for most undergraduate courses
PTE Academic59 overall for most undergraduate courses
Rankings
Uni Compare 20262
Global Student Living Awards1
Teaching Excellence Framework 2023
Complete University Guide 2025
University scholarships
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship£2,000 tuition fee reduction for self-funding international students
Full Payment Discount£1,000 off when annual fees are paid in full before enrolment
International Alumni Discount25% off tuition fees for eligible Derby graduates
Accreditation
TEF Gold 2023 (Teaching Excellence Framework). Various programmes are professionally accredited by bodies including the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), and others.
For international students
United KingdomStudent visa & funds
International students apply for the UK Student visa, which replaced the former Tier 4 (General) route. You need an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor and must show maintenance funds held for at least 28 consecutive days. As of November 2025 the requirement is £1,529 per month (for up to nine months) for courses in London and £1,171 per month for courses elsewhere, on top of tuition. Students who have already held a UK visa for 12 months, and nationals of certain low-risk countries, are exempt from evidencing the funds.
Working while you study
On a degree-level course at a licensed higher-education provider, you may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacation periods; sub-degree courses are capped at 10 hours per week. There is no distinction between on-campus and off-campus work, but self-employment and working as a professional sportsperson or coach are not permitted. Once you have completed all course requirements you may work full-time until your visa expires.
After you graduate
Graduates of an eligible UK degree can apply for the Graduate visa (the Graduate Route) without needing an employer sponsor. As of 2026, bachelor’s and master’s graduates receive two years of open work permission and PhD graduates receive three years. Under the 2025 immigration reforms, applications made on or after 1 January 2027 will grant 18 months instead of two years for non-doctoral qualifications, while PhD holders keep three years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; competitive/Russell Group courses up to 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–90; PG 90–100; top research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 51–65; PG 59–75
Main intakes
SeptemberJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,400/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
Programs
a selectionUniversity of Derby · United Kingdom
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business and Law)
This Access to Higher Education Diploma is designed for adult learners aged 19 and over who wish to progress to university-level study. Delivered over 35 weeks at the Derby Campus, this Level 3 programme prepares you for the demands of undergraduate degrees. Many students join without traditional Level 3 qualifications, and this course offers a supportive environment to rebuild academic confidence and develop essential study skills. You will study in a university setting, which helps ease the transition to higher education. If you don't yet have the required Level 2 English and Maths, a Level 2 course is also available as a preparatory step.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
35 mo
Duration
University of Derby · United Kingdom
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Medical Science with Health Psychology)
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Medical Science with Health Psychology) is a Level 3 programme designed for adult learners aged 19 and over who wish to progress to undergraduate study, particularly in healthcare or psychology-related fields. Delivered over 35 weeks at the University of Derby's Kedleston Road campus, this diploma provides a comprehensive foundation for university-level learning. It equips students with the necessary knowledge, study skills, and confidence for degree-level success, offering a valuable second chance for those without traditional Level 3 qualifications. This course is regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) and emphasizes a supportive learning environment led by experienced tutors. Studying within a university setting helps students transition smoothly into higher education. The curriculum covers essential subjects like Biology, Psychology, and Study Skills, preparing students for demanding academic work and providing direct pathways to many undergraduate degrees at the University of Derby.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
35 mo
Duration
University of Derby · United Kingdom
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Medical Science) with Chemistry or Physics
This Access to Higher Education Diploma is designed for adults aged 19 and over who wish to pursue a university degree. Delivered over 35 weeks on a full-time basis at the Derby Campus, this Level 3 programme equips you with the necessary knowledge, study skills, and confidence for undergraduate study. You will study in a university setting, offering a realistic preview of higher education. The course is regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) and serves as a second chance for those without traditional Level 3 qualifications. The teaching team is experienced and committed to supporting your academic journey, helping you rebuild confidence and prepare for the demands of university.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
35 mo
Duration
University of Derby · United Kingdom
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science)
This Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science) is a Level 3 programme designed for individuals aged 19 and over who wish to pursue undergraduate studies but may not have traditional qualifications like A-levels. Delivered over 35 weeks at the Derby Campus, this diploma prepares you for the academic demands of university. The course is regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) and is taught in a university setting to ease your transition. You will be supported by an experienced teaching team dedicated to building your academic confidence and skills. If you need to improve your English and Maths skills, a Level 2 course is also available as a stepping stone. This diploma is a second chance for many to access higher education.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
35 mo
Duration
University of Derby · United Kingdom
Access to Higher Education Diploma: Law and Criminology
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
University of Derby · United Kingdom
Anaesthetic Practice Certificate of Continuing Professional Development
This online Certificate of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in Anaesthetic Practice is designed for registered healthcare professionals working in the perioperative environment. The 20-week course focuses on building and reflecting on your knowledge and experience to enhance your skills in providing high-quality anaesthetic care across various specialities. It emphasizes resilience and safety, equipping you to handle increasingly complex cases and maintain a safe environment. The program is taught by experienced registered Operating Department Practitioners and aims to develop you into a dynamic, confident, and competent anaesthetic practitioner.
Certificate
Level
—
Tuition
20 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for United Kingdom
full fundingWellcome Trust
Wellcome Discovery Awards
Open to established researchers and research teams with a proven record of research delivery who are based at, or will be hosted by, an eligible not-for-profit organisation in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, or an eligible low- or middle-income country (excluding India and mainland China). Projects must propose bold, transformative research aligned with Wellcome's mission to improve health. The award does not cover the lead applicant's own salary, and a researcher may lead only one active Discovery Award submission.
full
Funding
€4000k
Max
Nov 25, 2026
Deadline
full fundingThe Alan Turing Institute
Open Source AI Fellowship (UK)
Open to AI professionals and researchers who are legally eligible to work in the UK without sponsorship, have resided in the UK for at least 5 years (a security check is required), are employed by a UK-based organisation willing to support a 12-month secondment, and hold a PhD or equivalent professional experience in AI or a related discipline.
full
Funding
€98k
Max
16d left
Deadline
full fundingSkoll Foundation / University of Oxford Saïd Business School
Skoll Scholarship for the Oxford MBA
Open to applicants of any nationality admitted to the full-time one-year Oxford MBA at Saïd Business School who can demonstrate a track record of entrepreneurial action creating positive social or environmental impact, and for whom the cost of the programme is a significant financial burden.
full
Funding
€95k
Max
Jan 8, 2027
Deadline
full fundingRhodes Trust
Rhodes Scholarship
For talented young people from around the world to undertake postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. Around 100 scholars are selected each year from more than 60 countries and constituencies; applications are made in your home country or constituency, each with its own age and eligibility rules.
full
Funding
€70k
Max
Sep 30, 2026
Deadline
full fundingGates Cambridge Trust
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Open to citizens of any country outside the United Kingdom applying for a full-time postgraduate degree (PhD, MSc/MLitt, or one-year master's) at the University of Cambridge. Selection weighs academic excellence, a strong fit with the chosen Cambridge course, a clear commitment to improving the lives of others, and leadership potential.
full
Funding
€70k
Max
Dec 3, 2026
Deadline
full fundingAfrica Initiative for Governance (AIG), tenable at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford
Africa Initiative for Governance (AIG) Scholarships at the University of Oxford
Open to West African nationals (for example from Nigeria and Ghana) seeking to study the Master of Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. Applicants are generally aged between 25 and 45, hold a strong undergraduate degree (typically second-class upper or above), demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to Africa's public sector, and intend to apply their learning in their home country's public service.
full
Funding
€65k
Max
Jan 9, 2027
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the international tuition fees for undergraduate courses at the University of Derby?
+
For most undergraduate courses starting in September 2025 or January 2026, international tuition fees are £16,900 per year. These fees are subject to change in line with government policy and cover teaching, mandatory study trips, and core library textbooks.
What is the University of Derby's teaching quality rating?
+
The University of Derby holds a TEF Gold rating for teaching excellence, as awarded by the Teaching Excellence Framework in 2023. This rating recognizes outstanding teaching quality and student outcomes.
Does the University of Derby have strong industry connections?
+
Yes, the university has strong industry partnerships with employers such as the NHS, Rolls-Royce, and Toyota. These collaborations ensure students gain hands-on, career-ready experience through placements and real-world projects.
What are the English language requirements for international students?
+
For most undergraduate courses, international students typically need an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with no band below 5.5. Other accepted tests include TOEFL iBT with a score of 80 overall, and PTE Academic with 59 overall.
Are there scholarships available for international students at the University of Derby?
+
Yes, the University of Derby offers scholarships for international students, including the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship (£2,000 tuition fee reduction) and a Full Payment Discount (£1,000 off when annual fees are paid in full).
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