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University of Greater Manchester
Accredited University

University of Greater Manchester

Bolton, Greater Manchester, England, UK (United Kingdom)
Tuition Fee (from) £ 22515
Cost of Living £ 1171
Country Rank 114
Batch Size 40
International Diversity 85%

Overview & About

The University of Greater Manchester, formerly known as the University of Bolton, is a public institution located in Bolton, Greater Manchester, England. Established in 1824 as the Bolton Mechanics' Institute, it has evolved over nearly two centuries, achieving university status in 2004. In December 2024, the university rebranded to its current name to reflect its broader regional identity and aspirations.

History and Heritage: The University of Greater Manchester, formerly known as the University of Bolton, has a rich history dating back to 1824 with the establishment of the Bolton Mechanics' Institute. Over the years, it evolved through various educational reforms, achieving university status in 2004. In 2024, it rebranded to its current name to reflect its broader regional identity and aspirations.

Academic Excellence: The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across disciplines such as health sciences, engineering, business, creative arts, and data analytics. It has been recognized with a Silver Award in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), highlighting its high-quality teaching. 

Campus and Facilities: Situated on an urban campus in Bolton, the university boasts modern facilities such as cutting-edge laboratories, creative studios, and well-equipped libraries. The Bolton One facility, a £31 million partnership with Bolton Council and NHS Bolton, houses health, science, and sports teaching and research facilities. Additionally, the university has an academic center in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, and maintains international partnerships in countries including China, Germany, Greece, Malawi, Malaysia, and Singapore.

Student Support and Wellbeing: The university provides comprehensive support services, including academic advising, career counseling, language assistance, and cultural integration programs. The Life Lounge offers specialist mental health and wellbeing services, free for students to access, including counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), pet therapy, and wellbeing advisers.

Research and Innovation: The University of Greater Manchester is committed to research and innovation, with initiatives like the Centre for Advanced Performance Engineering. The university's research endeavors contribute to advancements in various fields, fostering innovation and practical solutions.

Global Perspective and International Opportunities: The university has an academic center in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, and maintains international partnerships in countries including China, Germany, Greece, Malawi, Malaysia, and Singapore. These collaborations offer students opportunities for global exposure and cross-cultural experiences.

Community Engagement: The university actively engages with the local community through various initiatives and partnerships. Collaborations with local councils and organizations aim to address regional challenges and contribute to community development.

Student Life and Societies: The university's Students' Union offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs and societies catering to diverse interests. From sports teams competing in BUCS leagues to cultural and academic societies, students have ample opportunities to engage, network, and develop new skills.

Accreditation: The University of Greater Manchester, formerly known as the University of Bolton, is a public institution recognized by the UK government and regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). It has been assessed in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), which evaluates universities for excellence in teaching and student outcomes. Many of its courses are professionally accredited, ensuring they meet industry standards and provide students with qualifications recognized by employers. 

Official Website: www.bolton.ac.uk

Year of Establishment: The university traces its origins back to 1824 with the founding of the Bolton Mechanics' Institute. It evolved over the years, gaining degree-awarding powers in 1990 and achieving university status in 2005. In December 2024, it rebranded as the University of Greater Manchester to reflect its broader regional identity. 

University Address: University of Greater Manchester,  Deane Road, Bolton, Greater Manchester, BL3 5AB, United Kingdom. 

Country Rank: 114

University Type: The University of Greater Manchester is a public university.

Batch Strength 40 Students
Global Diversity 85% International

Campus Facilities

The University of Greater Manchester, formerly known as the University of Bolton, is dedicated to providing a supportive and enriching environment for its international student community. With a diverse student body representing over 120 countries, the university offers a range of facilities and services tailored to meet the unique needs of international students.

Accommodation Options: International students are offered comfortable and affordable housing options. The university recommends the Orlando Village Halls of Residence, a self-catered facility located just a 10-minute walk from the main campus. This residence features single study bedrooms, high-quality furnishings, free Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, and inclusive utility bills. The university's Accommodation Team assists students in finding suitable housing and addresses any related concerns. 

Arrival and Orientation Support: To ensure a smooth transition, the university offers a meet-and-greet service at Manchester Airport for new international arrivals. Additionally, orientation programs are designed to help students acclimate to university life, providing essential information and resources. 

Student Support Services: The Student Services Centre (SSC) serves as a central hub for international students, offering guidance on immigration, examinations, certificates, transcripts, funding sources, fee payments, and registration. The SSC is assisting students with practical matters related to university life. 

Wellbeing and Mental Health: The university prioritizes the mental health and wellbeing of its students. The Life Lounge provides specialist mental health services, including counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), pet therapy, and wellbeing advisement. These services are free and accessible to all students.

Academic and Career Support: International students benefit from academic advising, career counseling, and language assistance programs. The university's focus on practical learning ensures that students are well-prepared for the global job market. 

Cultural Integration and Community Engagement: The university fosters a vibrant campus life with numerous clubs, societies, and cultural events. These opportunities allow international students to engage with peers, explore new interests, and integrate into the university community. 

Safety and Security: Student safety is a top priority. The campus and university accommodations are equipped with CCTV and 24/7 security services. Additionally, the SafeZone app provides students with immediate access to safety services across the campus.

Notable Alumni

Sam Allardyce
Sam Allardyce

A respected figure in English football, Sam Allardyce has managed several Premier League clubs and is known for his strategic approach to the game.

Saulos Klaus Chilima
Saulos Klaus Chilima

Serving as the Vice President of Malawi, Saulos Chilima has played a pivotal role in his countrys political landscape, focusing on economic reforms and development initiatives.

Anna Stec
Anna Stec

A prominent academic, Professor Anna Stec specializes in fire chemistry and toxicology, conducting groundbreaking research on the effects of fire effluents on human health.

Global & National Rankings

Rank #114
  • 114 in Webometrics United Kingdom National Ranking

Available Courses

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MA Community Development and Youth Studies

Tuition Fee £ 15950
Exam Score IELTS 6.5
Intake January
Duration 12 Months
Course Details

MA Educational Leadership

Tuition Fee £ 15950
Exam Score IELTS 6.5
Intake Jan & Sept
Duration 18 Months
Course Details

BSc (Hons) Criminological and Forensic Psychology

Tuition Fee £ 15950
Exam Score IELTS 6
Intake September
Duration 36 Months
Course Details

BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering

Tuition Fee £ 15950
Exam Score IELTS 6
Intake September
Duration 36 Months
Course Details

MBA (Global Healthcare Management)

Tuition Fee £ 15950
Exam Score IELTS 6.5
Intake September
Duration 18 Months
Course Details

BSc (Hons) Dental Technology

Tuition Fee £ 15950
Exam Score IELTS 6
Intake September
Duration 36 Months
Course Details

Scholarships & Financial Aid

The University of Greater Manchester offers a variety of scholarships to support international students in financing their education. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence and assist students in pursuing their studies in the UK.

Global Futures Scholarships: The university provides the Global Futures Scholarships, which offer financial support to international students. These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and master's students holding an offer for full-time study on campus in Manchester. 

Equity and Merit Scholarships: The university offers Equity and Merit Scholarships to academically excellent international students. These scholarships are available to postgraduate taught students commencing their studies. The scholarships aim to support students who demonstrate strong academic performance and their chosen field of study. 

Engineering the Future Scholarships: The School of Engineering at the University of Greater Manchester provides scholarship awards to academically excellent international students commencing their postgraduate taught studies. These scholarships aim to support students pursuing careers in engineering and related fields.

Dean’s Doctoral Scholarship Awards: These scholarships are open to all nationalities and across all research areas. They are of interest to students of the highest calibre who have the commitment and desire to work on challenging research projects in a world-leading research environment.

Tuition & Financial Information

The University of Greater Manchester, formerly known as the University of Bolton, offers a range of financial options to support international students in managing their educational expenses. This includes competitive tuition fees, various scholarships, and flexible payment plans.

Financial Aid: The University of Greater Manchester provides a variety of financial aid options for international students. These include merit-based scholarships for academic excellence, subject-specific scholarships, and discounts for early tuition payments. Scholarship values vary, with awards of up to £5,000 to help offset tuition costs. 

Part-Time Work Opportunities: International students on a Tier 4 or Student visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. The university’s Careers and Employability team helps students find part-time roles both on campus and in the Greater Manchester area. Common part-time jobs include positions in retail, hospitality, administration, and tutoring. Gaining work experience while studying helps with financial independence and enhances employability.

Financial Planning and Support: The university offers guidance on budgeting, managing expenses, and making informed financial decisions. During orientation, international students are introduced to UK banking options, money-saving tips, and recommended budgeting tools. Cost-of-living estimations are provided, covering housing, transport, food, and personal expenses typically ranging from £800 to £1,200 per month, depending on lifestyle.

Financial Responsibility: Students are expected to manage their tuition and living expenses responsibly. For many programs, a tuition deposit of £1,000 is required to secure a place and receive the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). Tuition fees can often be paid in installments, allowing students to spread out costs. Late payments may incur additional charges or affect visa status, so timely payment is essential.

Financial Counseling: For students facing financial difficulties, the university offers counseling services to provide personalized advice and support. The Money Advice Service can assist with exploring funding options, managing debt, and navigating financial challenges. Students are encouraged to seek assistance early to ensure they receive the necessary support.

Accommodation & Housing

The University of Greater Manchester, formerly known as the University of Bolton, is dedicated to providing comfortable and secure accommodation options for its international student community. Recognizing the importance of a supportive living environment, the university offers both university-recommended housing and assistant.

On-Campus Accommodation: The primary on-campus accommodation for international students is Orlando Village Halls of Residence. Located approximately a 10-minute walk from the main campus, Orlando Village offers self-catered rooms with shared or private bathrooms. The accommodation includes amenities such as free Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, laundry facilities, and all utility bills included in the rent. Orlando Village is managed by McCombs (Bolton) Ltd and is the only accommodation provider approved and recommended by the university.

Off-Campus Accommodation: For students who prefer to live off-campus, Manchester offers a wide range of private accommodation options. These include shared houses, private flats, and purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs) managed by private companies. Many of these options are located near the university and are within walking distance of campus facilities. The university provides support through Manchester Student Homes, a service that helps students find university-approved accommodation in the private sector and offers general housing advice and listings of available properties.

Housing Support Services: The university offers comprehensive housing support services to assist international students in finding suitable accommodation. The Accommodation Team provides guidance on both on-campus and off-campus housing options, helping students navigate the application process and understand tenancy agreements. Additionally, the ResLife Team offers pastoral support for students living in university-managed accommodation, ensuring a smooth transition to university life and providing assistance with any housing-related issues.

Cost of Living Breakdown

Off-Campus Accommodation: Renting off-campus accommodation is a popular choice for students in the UK. The cost varies depending on the city and the type of accommodation. On average, students can expect to spend around £600 to £1,000 per month for a private rental flat or shared apartment outside the city center. The cost may increase for more central locations or larger and more luxurious properties.

On-Campus Accommodation: Universities in the UK often provide on-campus accommodation options for students. The cost of on-campus housing varies depending on the type of room and the location. On average, students can expect to pay around £400 to £800 per month for a standard single or shared room with shared facilities. En-suite or studio rooms may cost between £600 and £1,200 per month.

Transportation Cost per Month: Transportation costs in the UK can vary depending on the city and the mode of transportation used. Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is commonly used by students. On average, students can expect to spend around £50 to £100 per month on transportation, depending on the frequency of travel and the distance from their accommodation to their educational institution.

Food Cost per Month: Food expenses in the UK depend on individual preferences and dietary choices. On average, students can budget approximately £150 to £250 per month for groceries and meals. Cooking at home and utilizing affordable supermarkets can help reduce costs, while eating out or dining in restaurants may be more expensive.

Utility Cost per Month: Utility costs include electricity, water, heating, and internet. For a shared off-campus rental, utilities can range from £50 to £100 per month, depending on usage and the number of roommates. On-campus accommodation often includes utility costs within the rental price.

Entertainment Cost per Month: Entertainment expenses in the UK can vary based on personal preferences and lifestyle choices. Students can budget around £50 to £100 per month for social activities, such as going to the cinema, attending concerts, visiting museums, or participating in sports and recreational activities.

Groceries Cost per Month: The cost of groceries depends on personal preferences, dietary requirements, and shopping habits. On average, students can allocate approximately £100 to £150 per month for groceries. Shopping at budget-friendly supermarkets and utilizing discounts can help reduce costs.

Clothes: Clothing expenses are subjective and depend on personal preferences, seasonal needs, and shopping habits. It is recommended to allocate around £50 to £100 per month for clothing expenses, although this can vary significantly.

The cost of living in the UK varies based on factors such as location, accommodation type, lifestyle choices, and personal preferences. Considering the average expenses mentioned above, students can estimate a monthly budget ranging from approximately £900 to £1,800 per month. It is essential to plan your finances carefully and make adjustments based on your specific circumstances and budgetary constraints.

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Admissions & Career Outcomes

Entry Requirements

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
  • Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.

English language proficiency:

  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 79.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
  • Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Fee Structure Details

The University of Greater Manchester offers competitive tuition fees for international students across various programs. These fees are set annually and remain fixed for the duration of the student's course, providing financial predictability. It's important to note that tuition fees can vary depending on the specific program and field of study.

Undergraduate Tuition Fees: For the 2025/26 academic year, undergraduate tuition fees for international students at the University of Greater Manchester typically range from £13,500 to £16,500 per year. However, certain programs, particularly those in specialized fields, may have higher fees. For example, the BSc (Hons) Business Accounting program offers scholarships of up to £2,000 per year for international students, which can help offset tuition costs. 

Postgraduate Tuition Fees: Postgraduate taught programs at the University of Greater Manchester have tuition fees ranging from £13,500 to £16,500 per year for international students. Specific fees depend on the chosen program and its associated costs. For instance, the MSc Business Analytics program has a tuition fee of £16,500 per year, while the MSc Artificial Intelligence and Data Science program is priced at £15,000 per year.

Placement & Career Support

The University of Greater Manchester offers a range of placement opportunities to enhance the employability of international students. These placements provide valuable work experience, helping students develop practical skills and build professional networks.

Placement Opportunities: International students have access to various placement options, including year-long industrial placements, summer internships, and short-term projects. These opportunities are available across different disciplines, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study. Participating in a placement can significantly improve career prospects by providing real-world experience and enhancing employability skills.

Support Services: The university's Careers Service offers comprehensive support to students seeking placements. Services include assistance with CV writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies. The Careers Service also organizes career fairs and networking events, connecting students with potential employers and industry professionals. Additionally, the service provides guidance on work visa regulations and employment rights for international students.

Employability Initiatives: The University of Greater Manchester is committed to enhancing the employability of its students through various initiatives. These include skills development workshops, mentorship programs, and collaborations with local and global employers. The university's strong ties with industry partners ensure that students have access to a wide range of placement opportunities, both within the UK and internationally.

Please note that job placement can vary depending on individual circumstances, including a student's field of study, prior work experience, and individual job search efforts. It's also important to keep in mind that while the university can provide valuable resources and support, securing employment ultimately depends on the student's skills, qualifications, and the broader job market.

Frequently Asked Questions

The University of Greater Manchester is situated in Bolton, a town within Greater Manchester, England.

The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, sports centers, and student lounges, to support both academic and extracurricular activities.

Bolton has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and trains, making it easy for students to commute within the town and to nearby cities like Manchester.

The university prioritizes student safety with 24/7 security measures, including high-visibility patrols, CCTV monitoring, and the SafeZone app, which connects students directly to campus security. The surrounding area of Bolton is generally considered safe, with the university working closely with local authorities to ensure a secure environment.
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