Birmingham is the UK’s second-largest city and a thriving hub for higher education. When checking the map of this city, some international applicants may ask: How many universities in Birmingham are there to choose from? Actually, there are five major universities located in the city. Each offers a distinct culture, from prestigious research institutions to vocationally focused colleges. Whether you are looking for top-tier rankings or specialised creative courses, this guide covers the complete list, answering how many universities in Birmingham are there for you to choose from and how to make the right decision.
Why Study in Birmingham
Birmingham is widely recognised as one of the youngest cities in Europe, with under-25s accounting for nearly 40% of its population. With five universities and over 80,000 students, the city boasts a vibrant and energetic atmosphere that is perfectly tailored to student life. Beyond the social buzz, financial practicality is a major draw. The cost of living in Birmingham is approximately 60% lower than in London, allowing students to enjoy a high quality of life without the extreme financial pressure found in the capital.
Academically and professionally, the city is a powerhouse; as a leading European business destination, it offers robust internship opportunities and strong industry links for graduates. Finally, its central location in the heart of the UK provides exceptional connectivity, with London just 90 minutes away by train, making travel easy and affordable.
Universities in Birmingham
University of Birmingham
Academics & Employment: The University of Birmingham is the top choice for academic rigour. Key disciplines include Computer Science, Physics, Medicine, Dentistry, and Chemical Engineering. Graduates are highly sought after, with the university frequently listed as a top target for the UK’s leading graduate employers.
History & Reputation: Founded in 1900, the University of Birmingham was the UK’s first civic or “red brick” university. It is a prestigious member of the Russell Group and has a history of excellence, boasting 10 Nobel Prize winners among its alumni and staff. It is consistently ranked as one of the world’s top research institutions.
Campus Life & Location: The university is famous for its stunning 276-acre green campus in Edgbaston, which offers a traditional collegiate feel just 3 miles from the city centre. It even has its own train station (“University”), getting you to Birmingham New Street in just 7 minutes. For accommodation, The Toybox and The Pavilion are highly recommended for students.
- QS World Ranking (2026): #80
- Acceptance Rate: 13-15%
- Tuition Fees (2026 Est.): £24,660 – £46,320 (International)
Aston University
Academics & Employment: Aston University is synonymous with employability. It is best known for Business, Management, Optometry, and Engineering. The university pioneered the integrated placement year, and as a result, its graduates consistently achieve some of the highest employment rates in the country.
History & Reputation: Established in 1895 and receiving its Royal Charter in 1966, Aston University has a long heritage of technical and business education. It holds the rare “Triple Crown” accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS) for its business school, placing it among the global elite.
Campus Life & Location: Aston offers a true city-center experience. Its campus is located at Aston Triangle, just a 10-15 minute walk from the main shopping districts and New Street Station. Accommodation like Canvas the Heights and B16 Studios is right on campus, meaning you are never far from your lectures.
- QS World Ranking (2026): #423
- Acceptance Rate: 50-60%
- Tuition Fees (2026 Est.): £17,000 – £23,500 (International)
Birmingham City University
Academics & Employment: Birmingham City University focuses on “practice-based learning.” Its strengths lie in Art & Design, Media, Architecture, and Nursing. The university has strong partnerships with companies like the BBC and Jaguar Land Rover, ensuring students gain real-world skills.
History & Reputation: With roots dating back to 1843, BCU gained full university status in 1992. It is a dynamic, modern institution known for the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and the world-renowned School of Jewellery.
Campus Life & Location: BCU has invested £260 million into its facilities. The main City Centre Campus is in the up-and-coming Eastside district (near the future HS2 station), featuring state-of-the-art media studios and libraries. The City South Campus in Edgbaston hosts health and education courses.
- QS World Ranking (2026): #1001-1200
- Acceptance Rate: around 50%
- Tuition Fees (2026 Est.): £16,000 – £18,500 (International)
Newman University
Academics & Employment: If you prefer smaller class sizes and personalised support, this is the place. Newman University specialises in Teacher Training (Education), Psychology, and Sport Studies. Its vocational focus leads to excellent graduate outcomes, particularly in the public sector.
History & Reputation: Founded in 1968 as a teacher training college, it gained full university status in 2013. Guided by a Catholic ethos of service, it is renowned for its inclusive atmosphere and consistently high student satisfaction scores.
Campus Life & Location: Situated in Bartley Green, about 6 miles from the city centre, Newman offers a quiet, close-knit community that is very different from the big-city university experience. Halls of residence are on-campus, fostering a safe and friendly environment.
- QS World Ranking: N/A (Specialised Focus)
- Acceptance Rate: around 80%
- Tuition Fees (2026 Est.): £13,500 – £15,000 (International)
University College Birmingham
Academics & Employment: University College Birmingham is all about getting you job-ready. It excels in Hospitality, Tourism, Culinary Arts, Aviation, and Beauty Therapy. The curriculum is designed with direct input from industry leaders, making it a powerhouse for careers in the service sector.
History & Reputation: UCB has a rich heritage as a technical college and is the premier provider of vocational training in the region. A key highlight is that many of its degree courses are accredited by the University of Warwick, guaranteeing high academic standards.
Campus Life & Location: Situated in the historic Jewellery Quarter and city center, UCB’s campuses (like The Maltings and Summer Row) are surrounded by independent cafes and bars. The facilities are industry-standard, including award-winning training restaurants and aviation suites.
- QS World Ranking: N/A (Vocational Specialist)
- Acceptance Rate: 70-80%
- Tuition Fees (2026 Est.): £14,000 – £16,500 (International)
Birmingham’s Universities at a Glance
| University | Student Pop. | Strengths | QS Ranking (2026) | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Birmingham | 38,000 | Sports Science, Dentistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Education | #80 | £24k – £46k |
| Aston University | 15,000 | Business & Management, Optometry, Pharmacy, Marketing | #423 | £17k – £23k |
| Birmingham City Univ. (BCU) | 26,000 | Jewellery Design, Architecture, Media & Comm, Nursing/Health | #1001-1200 | £16k – £18.5k |
| Birmingham Newman Univ. | 2,800 | Teacher Training (Education), Psychology, Social Work, Humanities | N/A | £13.5k – £15k |
| University College B’ham (UCB) | 7,500 | Hospitality & Tourism, Culinary Arts, Aviation Management | N/A | £14k – £16.5k |
Other Universities in Birmingham
Beyond the five main degree-awarding institutions, Birmingham also hosts satellite campuses for several other prestigious UK universities, offering specialized education options.
The University of Law (Birmingham Campus): Located in the historic Jewellery Quarter, the University of Law Birmingham Campus is dedicated exclusively to legal training. It is a top choice for postgraduate law students (LPC/SQE) looking for direct links to Birmingham’s thriving legal sector. The campus mirrors a professional law firm environment, focusing strictly on employability and practical legal skills.
Ulster University (Birmingham Campus): Situated conveniently near New Street Station, Ulster University Birmingham campus focuses on business, computing, and professional courses. It is particularly popular among international students for its supportive pathway programs and modern teaching facilities. The curriculum is designed to be career-led, helping students transition smoothly into the UK job market.
BIMM University: Located in the creative hub of Digbeth, BIMM is the place to be for modern music, film, and performing arts. With industry-standard studios and tutors who are active professionals, it offers a direct route into the entertainment industry. It is the perfect environment for artists, producers, and performers who want to learn by doing.
Cost of Living in Birmingham
One of the biggest advantages of choosing universities in Birmingham compared with London is affordability. Birmingham is consistently ranked as one of the most cost-effective cities in the UK for students. On average, the cost of living in Birmingham is approximately 60% lower than in London.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (Approx.) | Critical Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (Student Accommodation) | £650 – £1,100 | Based on En-suite/Studio prices (Bills Included). |
| Groceries & Food | £160 – £200 | Shopping at Aldi/Lidl + occasional dining out. |
| Transportation | £50 – £60 | Student bus pass or railcard discounts. |
| Personal & Leisure | £80 – £120 | Gym, cinema, socializing. |
| Mobile & Learning Materials | £20 – £40 | SIM card plan, printing, stationery. |
| TOTAL Estimated | £960 – £1,520 | Still significantly cheaper than London (~£1,800+). |
Accommodation Costs
Housing will be your largest monthly expense, but it is far more reasonable here than in the capital. Most student apartments in Birmingham on uhomes.com come fully furnished with bills (water, electricity, Wi-Fi) included in the rent, meaning you don’t need to worry about hidden costs. Plus, they are often located just a short walk from major campuses like the University of Birmingham, Aston, and BCU.
Most international students choose Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) for security and convenience. The cost and vibe vary depending on which neighborhood you choose:
Selly Oak: The student heartland for the University of Birmingham. It has a vibrant “student village” feel with affordable houses and halls, packed with pubs and cafes.
Birmingham City Centre: Ideal for Aston, BCU, and UCB students. Living here means modern high-rise apartments, immediate access to the Bullring, and a bustling city lifestyle.
Edgbaston: A greener, quieter, and more upscale area. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful environment near the University of Birmingham and the BCU City South campus.
| Room Type | Average Cost (Per Week) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Non-En-suite (Shared Bathroom) | £100 – £180 | Budget-conscious students who enjoy a community feel. |
| En-suite (Private Bathroom) | £150 – £250 | The most popular choice; balances privacy with a shared kitchen. |
| Studio (Private Kitchen & Bathroom) | £200 – £350+ | Students who want complete independence and privacy. |
Things to Do in Birmingham
As one of the major cities in the UK, Birmingham will never make your life dull. There are lots of things to do in Birmingham. The city offers endless activities to fill your weekends. Here are some top picks for students.
Food & Drink
Birmingham’s culinary scene is legendary and diverse. You simply cannot live here without trying a “Balti,” a famous curry dish invented in the city’s Balti Triangle. For a more casual vibe, the Digbeth Dining Club is a student favorite, offering award-winning street food in a cool, industrial setting. Meanwhile, Chinatown near the Arcadian is the go-to spot for authentic bubble tea, hot pot,
Arts & Culture
The city is steep in culture, headlined by the Library of Birmingham. Far more than just a place to study, this architectural marvel features a Shakespeare Memorial Room and a secret rooftop garden with stunning panoramic views of the city. History buffs will appreciate the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, home to the world’s largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite art, while the Hippodrome hosts major West End musicals and the Birmingham Royal Ballet, ensuring there is always a world-class show to catch.
Events
The student social calendar peaks in winter with the Frankfurt Christmas Market, the largest authentic German market outside of Germany and Austria. It is the absolute highlight of the festive season. Year-round, the music scene stays vibrant, ranging from the indie vibes of the Moseley Folk & Arts Festival to major international gigs at the Utilita Arena, ensuring that music lovers are always entertained.
Outdoors
Despite its industrial roots, Birmingham is surprisingly green. It famously has more miles of canals than Venice, making the Gas Street Basin a picturesque spot for walking, jogging, or cycling along the water. Near the university, Cannon Hill Park offers boating lakes, tennis courts, and mini-golf, while the Birmingham Botanical Gardens in Edgbaston provide a peaceful Victorian-style escape from study stress.
Getting Around Birmingham
Birmingham is incredibly well-connected, making it easy for students to travel both within the city and across the UK.
Public Transport
- Trains: Birmingham New Street is the busiest station outside London. It serves as a central hub, getting you to London in under 90 minutes or Manchester in roughly the same time. The local “Cross-City Line” is a lifeline for students, connecting the University of Birmingham (University Station) directly to the city centre in just 7-10 minutes.
Money Saving Tip: If you are aged 16-25 or a full-time student, don’t forget to apply for a Railcard. It saves you 1/3 on train fares across the UK! Check out our full 16-25 Railcard Guide to learn how to apply and maximise your savings.
- Buses: The West Midlands bus network covers every corner of the city. A student bus pass is a cost-effective way to commute if you live slightly further from campus.
- Trams: The West Midlands Metro connects Birmingham to Wolverhampton and is expanding rapidly, providing an additional rapid transit option across the region.
Walking & Cycling
Birmingham is a pedestrian-friendly city. The city centre is compact enough to walk between major campuses (like Aston and BCU) and shopping districts. The canal towpaths also offer scenic, traffic-free cycle routes for students commuting from student accommodations to the university.
Conclusion
Birmingham, with its five major universities, offers a diverse higher education landscape that caters to every type of student. Whether you are aiming for the global prestige of the University of Birmingham or the creative focus of BCU, you will find a path that fits your career goals. Beyond academics, the city’s affordable cost of living and vibrant cultural scene make it one of the UK’s most attractive destinations for higher education. Choosing to study here means joining a thriving community in a city that truly has it all.
FAQs
Based on the current educational landscape in Birmingham, UK, there are five main universities located within the city.
University of Birmingham
Aston University
Birmingham City University
Birmingham Newman University
University College Birmingham
In addition to these five “native” universities, Birmingham also hosts satellite campuses for several other institutions, including Ulster University, The University of Law, Arden University, and BIMM University (specializing in music and creative industries).
The University of Birmingham is the clear winner if you are looking for global rankings and research prestige. It is a Russell Group member and consistently ranks in the top 100 globally (QS #80 for 2026). However, “best” is subjective: Aston University is often considered the best for graduate employability and business, while Birmingham City University (BCU) is widely regarded as the best for creative arts and media courses.
It largely depends on your subject of study. The University of Birmingham is often the top choice for those seeking global prestige and a traditional campus experience, as it is a member of the elite Russell Group. However, Aston University is excellent for students prioritizing business connections and employability. If you are interested in creative arts, Birmingham City University (BCU) offers state-of-the-art facilities , while University College Birmingham (UCB) is a leader in vocational training for hospitality and tourism.
Yes, significantly. The overall cost of living in Birmingham is approximately 60% lower than in London. This includes savings on rent, transport, and daily essentials like groceries, allowing international students to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the heavy financial burden of the capital.
Yes, Birmingham is an excellent choice for students. As the UK’s second-largest city and the “youngest city in Europe,” it offers a vibrant atmosphere supported by five major universities. Students enjoy a perfect balance of academic excellence and lifestyle, with world-class shopping at the Bullring, legendary nightlife on Broad Street, and affordable living costs. Its central location also makes travel easy, with London just 90 minutes away by train.
Yes, Birmingham is one of the best cities in the UK for launching a career. The city acts as a major financial and business hub, hosting the UK headquarters of HSBC and significant regional offices for global firms like Goldman Sachs, PwC, and KPMG. Beyond finance, the region is a powerhouse for engineering and manufacturing, with industry giants such as Jaguar Land Rover and Rolls-Royce. This strong job market, combined with lower living costs, results in a high graduate retention rate,.
