UNITED KINGDOM · PORTSMOUTH
University of Portsmouth
public · Founded 1869 · Languages: en
In short
The University of Portsmouth is a dynamic public university in England known for its innovative Connected Degrees, strong research power, and high graduate employability. It offers a vibrant student experience in one of the UK's most affordable student cities, welcoming around 25,000 students from over 150 countries.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1869
- Students
- 25,000
- International students
- 6,000
- Acceptance rate
- 79%
- Tuition (intl)
- €21–23k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Portsmouth, United Kingdom
The University of Portsmouth is a dynamic public university in the waterfront city of Portsmouth, England, with an additional London campus for career-focused programmes. Its roots trace back to the Portsmouth and Gosport School of Science and the Arts, founded in 1869; it gained full university status in 1992. The university enrols around 25,000 students from over 150 countries. Portsmouth is known for its innovative Connected Degrees programme, which allows students to complete a standard three-year academic course with an optional fully supported fourth-year industry placement — a flexible model that sets it apart from traditional UK sandwich-year degrees and keeps students connected to their peer cohort. Recognised as a top modern university for research power, Portsmouth tackles real-world global challenges across disciplines from environmental science and health to technology and creative industries. It consistently reports a 94% graduate employability rate and is ranked among the most affordable student cities in the UK.
Why study here
- Unique Connected Degrees with optional fourth-year placement — graduate earlier or gain extra experience on your terms.
- Top modern UK university for research power, with direct impact on policy and global challenges.
- Highly affordable student city: Portsmouth rent is ~25% cheaper than Brighton and well below London.
- Students from 150+ countries, creating a truly international campus community.
- 94% graduate employability rate; strong career support and placement network.
Student life
Student life at Portsmouth is enriched by a strong sense of community and an affordable, vibrant city. All university buildings are within a 15-minute walk, creating a walkable campus feel. London is accessible by train in under 90 minutes. The Students' Union hosts hundreds of clubs, societies, and events. Accommodation in halls of residence includes en-suite rooms from £142 per week with guaranteed rooms for eligible first-year students. The Unibuddy platform connects prospective students with current peers. Alumni enjoy discounts on further study, career support, and access to the university library and sports centre.
Fees
InternationalFor the academic year 2026/27, typical international tuition fees range from £17,900 to £20,000 per year. For courses starting from September 2025/26, tuition fees will generally be fixed for the duration of the course, subject to a maximum inflationary rise of 5% per annum. If a course includes a placement year, a nominal placement year fee applies. Payment can be made through Applicant View using Flywire, which supports payments from over 240 countries in more than 130 currencies.
HomeUK students pay £9,535 per year (2025/26 undergraduate rate, set by government fee cap).
LivingPortsmouth is ranked as one of the top 10 most affordable student cities, with rent approximately 25% lower than Brighton. Estimated annual living costs (accommodation, food, transport, personal): £9,000–£12,000.
A deposit is required to confirm your place, which is deducted from your tuition fees. The University operates a cashless payment system for fees.
Admissions
Undergraduate EntryA-levels or equivalent international qualifications; specific grades depend on the course
Postgraduate EntryBachelor's degree (2:2 or above) in a relevant subject; professional experience may be considered for some courses
IELTS Academic6.0 overall (with no less than 5.5 in each component) for most undergraduate courses; postgraduate requirements vary
TOEFL iBT79 overall for most courses
Pearson PTE Academic54 overall
Rankings
QS World University Rankings801
Times Higher Education Young University Rankings201
Complete University Guide UK60
University scholarships
International ScholarshipUp to £3,000 per year off tuition (merit-based)
Big Business GiveawayBusiness support packages for student entrepreneurs
Care Leaver BursaryUp to £1,000 per year for eligible UK students
Accreditation
The University of Portsmouth is recognised as a university by the UK government. Individual programmes hold specialist accreditations including BPS (Psychology), RICS (Real Estate), GDC (Dental Hygiene), NMC (Nursing and Midwifery), and BCS (Computing).
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 Portsmouth · United Kingdom
BSc (Hons) Professional Policing
This BSc (Hons) Professional Policing degree is designed to equip you with the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for a career as a police officer, following the National Police Curriculum set by the College of Policing. You will gain legislative, policy, and procedural understanding, alongside critical thinking, communication, decision-making, and conflict management abilities. The course utilizes simulated facilities to replicate real-life situations, and teaching staff often have direct law enforcement experience. Through close ties with local constabularies, you'll have opportunities for practical experience, preparing you for entry into policing in England and Wales or related fields in law enforcement and criminal justice. The program also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate studies.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
University of Portsmouth · United Kingdom
BSc (Hons) Psychology of Sport and Performance
This BSc (Hons) Psychology of Sport and Performance degree, accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), provides a foundation for a career as a Chartered Sport and Exercise Psychologist or HCPC Registered Practitioner Psychologist. You will gain practical experience using advanced equipment in well-equipped laboratories and be instructed by experienced BPS Chartered and HCPC Registered psychologists. The course focuses on understanding the psychological factors influencing performance in sport and exercise, including motivation, stress, leadership, and group dynamics. It also explores promoting physical activity and the mental well-being of athletes. Students will develop transferable skills applicable to various professional settings, including sport, healthcare, education, and broader societal roles.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
University of Portsmouth · United Kingdom
BSc (Hons) Sociology with Criminology
Explore the complex interplay between human relationships, societal structures, and behavior. This degree delves into how power dynamics and inequalities contribute to crime, offering a fresh perspective on those who create and enforce laws. You will examine a broad spectrum of relevant topics, from gender and environmental justice to family dynamics and gang crime. The curriculum is informed by cutting-edge research and is continuously updated to reflect new ideas in areas like gender, class, and sexuality, taught by experts passionate about their fields. You will develop critical thinking skills, learn to construct evidence-based arguments, and gain insights into social research to understand and potentially improve societal well-being. This versatile course allows you to tailor your studies to your interests, with opportunities for personal, professional, and academic development.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
University of Portsmouth · United Kingdom
BSc (Hons) Sport Management (Top-up)
This BSc (Hons) Sport Management (Top-up) course is designed for individuals who already hold a Level 5 qualification, such as an HND or Foundation Degree, in a sport or business-related field. It provides a pathway to earn a full Bachelor's degree by applying business knowledge and commercial expertise specifically to the dynamic world of sport. The program aims to equip you with essential skills in sports entrepreneurship, management, marketing, and analytics, preparing you for a successful career in sports management and related sectors.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
University of Portsmouth · United Kingdom
Childhood and Youth Studies with Criminology BA (Hons)
This Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree combines the study of childhood and youth with criminology, exploring issues affecting young people aged 8-18 and their relationship with the criminal justice system. You will gain a specialist perspective on working with children and young people, understanding child development, societal influences, and the causes and consequences of crime. The course is designed for students interested in careers in youth intervention, youth justice, social work, or teaching. You will learn from academics with professional experience and engage with real-world scenarios, including using a Family Assessment Room. The curriculum allows for specialization in areas like education and teaching, community and youth/family provision, or leadership and enterprise, helping you tailor your studies to your career aspirations.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
University of Portsmouth · United Kingdom
Criminology and Cybercrime BSc (Hons)
This undergraduate degree explores the human element of cybercrime, equipping you with the knowledge to combat online criminal activity. You'll gain insights into how criminal organizations operate in the digital space and learn to address emerging threats. The course focuses on understanding the motivations and behaviors behind cybercrime rather than solely technical solutions. It is designed to be current, with modules evolving to reflect the rapidly changing landscape of cyber threats and online deviance. You will study topics such as cybersecurity, online terrorism, digital forensics, cyberdeviance, and cyberpsychology. This program is the first of its kind in the UK and is taught by experts in criminology, policing, and cybercrime.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 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
17d 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 tuition fees for international students at the University of Portsmouth?
+
For the academic year 2026/27, international tuition fees typically range from £17,900 to £20,000 per year. Fees for courses starting September 2025/26 are generally fixed for the duration of the course, with a maximum annual inflationary rise of 5%.
What are the estimated living costs for students in Portsmouth?
+
Portsmouth is considered one of the top 10 most affordable student cities. Estimated annual living costs, including accommodation, food, and transport, range from £9,000 to £12,000.
Does the University of Portsmouth offer flexible degree programmes?
+
Yes, the University of Portsmouth offers an innovative Connected Degrees programme. This allows students to complete a standard three-year course with an optional, fully supported fourth-year industry placement.
What is the graduate employability rate at the University of Portsmouth?
+
The University of Portsmouth consistently reports a 94% graduate employability rate, indicating strong career support and a high success rate for its graduates.
What are the English language requirements for international students?
+
For most undergraduate courses, an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall (with no less than 5.5 in each component) is required. TOEFL iBT typically requires an overall score of 79.
Last updated