University Guide
University of Northampton
The University of Northampton gained full university status in 2005, having developed from Nene College, which was formed through the merger of local education, technology and art colleges in 1975. Today, its main base is Waterside Campus, which opened in September 2018. The university places an emphasis on interactive teaching, combining face-to-face sessions, smaller teaching groups and practical activities with digital resources. Students work independently and collaboratively, with opportunities to develop skills through teamwork, problem-solving and tasks connected to the workplace. Alongside academic life, Northampton offers university accommodation, student-led sports and societies, and careers support through Student Futures. Its focus on social impact also encourages students to consider how their knowledge and skills can make a difference beyond their course.
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The overview
The main things you need to know about studying at the University of Northampton.
Rankings
The University of Northampton ranks 121st in the Complete University Guide 2027 and 78th in the Guardian University Guide 2027, rising 12 places in the Guardian’s latest table. Its Guardian subject results include third place for Mental Health, sixth for Paramedic Science and seventh for Journalism. The university also holds a Silver award in the Teaching Excellence Framework 2023, recognising the quality of its student experience and outcomes.
Employability
The University of Northampton is committed to developing graduates who are not only qualified to get their first graduate job, but who have also developed the skills and attributes they need to progress in their chosen career. The Northampton Employment Promise guarantees a three to six month paid internship, or support into postgraduate study, if students haven’t found full-time employment within 12 months of graduating (terms and conditions apply).
Fees
For the 2026/27 academic year, standard full-time undergraduate tuition fees for students with home fee status are £9,790. Fees can differ for integrated foundation years, accelerated degrees and part-time study, so students should check their individual course page alongside the university’s undergraduate fees and funding guidance. International tuition fees depend on the programme and year of study. For example, International Business Management BA (Hons) costs £17,000 for new international students in 2026/27. Postgraduate fees also vary by course. Eligible students may be able to access tuition fee and maintenance loans. Accommodation, food, travel and any additional course expenses should be included when planning a budget.
Bursaries
The University of Northampton offers a range of bursaries, scholarships and funds, with eligibility depending on the award and the student’s circumstances. Through its student benefits package, eligible new full-time undergraduates with home fee status can choose a laptop, a £500 discount on university-owned accommodation or £500 in campus catering credit. Course and entry requirements apply, and the package is not available to every student. For 2026/27 entrants, the UON Fund provides a £500 payment in the level-six year of study for eligible home students from qualifying areas of socio-economic deprivation. This is usually the final year, and assessment is automatic. Additional support includes the Care Leaver and Estranged Student Accommodation Award, which offered up to five fully funded, 52-week accommodation places for eligible first-year students in 2026/27. Applications for that year have closed; applications for 2027/28 are due to open in spring 2027.
Accommodation
The University of Northampton’s accommodation is spread across Waterside Campus, St John’s Halls in the town centre and Scholars Green Student Village in Kingsthorpe. Options include single rooms, shared twin rooms, en-suite rooms and studios. University halls have Wi-Fi and security provision, with utilities and personal possessions insurance included in the rent. For 2026/27, advertised weekly prices range from £97 per person for a twin en-suite at Scholars Green to £213 for a single studio at Waterside. Single en-suite rooms at Scholars Green cost £117 per week. Standard September contracts run for 42 weeks and five days. Scholars Green is approximately 4.5 miles from Waterside, with a free bus service to campus. It is only available to students starting in September 2026 or January 2027, for one fixed contract period without extensions or further years of residence. The university’s 2026/27 accommodation guarantee applies to qualifying new full-time first-year students who meet the application and acceptance requirements. A preferred room or location is not guaranteed. Students can also explore private student accommodation in Northampton through AFS.
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Students' Union
Committed to ensuring that students have a positive, quality experience at the University, the Students’ Union offers a range of retail outlets, bars, sports, societies and volunteering projects. It is one of only three universities in England to offer free membership of societies and sports clubs, including free kit.
Famous for
The University of Northampton is well known for its celebration of the different thinkers, opening a new campus in 2018 based on how students actually learn. Every eligible full-time student receives a laptop, funded study trips and a guaranteed graduate internship included in their fee.
News
During the coronavirus pandemic, the University of Northampton offered local businesses the opportunity to apply to them for a grant worth up to £5,000 to help them survive and thrive during this difficult time.
Accommodation for Students says
"Northampton is perfect for student living, home to both beautiful parks and woodland, as well as brilliant nightlife. The Students' Union club has recently won the 'Best Club' award by NUS".
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