UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER 

The University of Chichester is located on the picturesque south coast of England. Known for its strong academic reputation, vibrant campus life, and supportive environment, the University of Chichester offers a distinctive higher education experience. 
 

STUDY AT UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER 

The University of Chichester is renowned for its strong emphasis on teaching quality, student satisfaction and employability. With small class sizes and personal attention from lecturers, students benefit from a nurturing environment that encourages academic success. The university's focus on practical learning ensures that students are equipped not only with theoretical knowledge, but also with the skills needed to succeed in the workplace. 

The institution has a friendly, close-knit community, making it the perfect choice for students who value a more personal and engaging educational experience. It’s beautiful coastal location, vibrant campus atmosphere and supportive network of academic and personal services make it an ideal choice for those seeking both academic and personal development. 

The University offers a diverse portfolio of courses covering a range of subject areas. This allows prospective students to find a course that matches their dreams and aspirations. 
 

HISTORY OF UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER 

Founded in 1839 as Chichester Training College, the University of Chichester has a long-standing tradition of providing high-quality education. Over the years, the institution has evolved, gaining university status in 2005. It has since grown into a leading modern university, offering a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. 

Despite its growth, the university has maintained a strong sense of community, prioritising student well-being and academic excellence. It continues to build on its historic foundations, embracing innovation and adapting to the ever-changing demands of higher education. 
 

SPECIALIST AREAS AT UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER 

The University of Chichester is particularly well-known for its expertise in several specialist areas, including: 

Creative Industries: Based in the University’s £40 million state-of-the-art Technology Park, Creative Industries offers professional-level training in areas such as Film Production, Film Technologies, Animation, Visual Effects and Games Design. Graduates are highly sought after graduation and trained to industry standard. 

Performing Arts: With an established reputation in dance, music, and theatre, the university offers world-class facilities and expertise in the arts. Its close relationships with cultural organisations enhance opportunities for students in these fields. 

Sports and Exercise Science: The university is a leader in sports science and physical education, with cutting-edge facilities and a strong focus on research and professional practice. 

Education: With a history rooted in teacher training, the university offers excellent programs in education, including early childhood, primary, and secondary education, as well as special needs education. 

Business and Management: The university offers strong programs in business, management, and entrepreneurship, providing students with industry-relevant skills and a global perspective. 
  

LIFE ON CAMPUS 

The University of Chichester has two main campuses: the Bishop Otter Campus in the city center and the Bognor Regis Campus near the coast. Both campuses blend modern facilities with green spaces, offering a vibrant, student-centred environment. Students can access cafes, gyms, health clinics, and student support services at both locations. The Bishop Otter Campus has strong facilities for performing arts and science, while the Bognor Regis campus focuses on media, digital arts, and business. The university fosters a community-oriented atmosphere, with clubs, societies, and regular social events. Both campuses are well-connected by public transport. The city and coastal location provide cultural and outdoor activities, including beach access. Students enjoy modern technology, collaborative spaces, and strong industry links. Health services, including GP access, are available, supporting student well-being. 
  

STUDENT SUPPORT AT UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER 

The Support and Information Zone (SIZ) is located in the Learning Resource Centres on both campuses, the Bishop Otter Campus in the city center and the Bognor Regis Campus near the coast. The SIZ is the place to go if students are struggling or need support. 

Staff are knowledgeable and friendly and can put you in touch with mental health and student support services, careers services, financial advice and support and much more. 

Also, the International Student Advisory Service (ISAS) is here to help with pre-arrival information, international orientation, student health, academic language support, accommodation advice and working while studying.   
  

UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER FACILITIES  

The University of Chichester boasts state-of-the-art facilities to support its diverse range of academic disciplines. Key facilities include: 

The University Library: A modern, well-stocked library providing access to vast academic resources, study spaces, and IT support. 

The Sports Complex: Includes fitness suites, sports halls, and outdoor pitches. The university is known for its strength in sports science, and its facilities are among the best in the UK for student athletes. 

The Creative Arts Studios: Exceptional spaces for dance, music, and theatre, allowing students to hone their skills in industry-standard environments. 

The Business and IT Labs: Equipped with the latest technologies to ensure that students have access to cutting-edge tools and resources relevant to their studies. 
  

SPORTS AND SOCIETIES AT UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER 

The University of Chichester offers a wide range of sports and societies for students to join, catering to diverse interests. The university has an impressive sports complex, including gyms, fitness suites, sports halls, and outdoor pitches for team sports. Students can participate in various competitive sports teams, including football, rugby, netball, and athletics, with opportunities for both recreational and elite-level participation. There is a strong emphasis on sports science and physical health, offering programmes for student athletes. The Student Union organises numerous societies ranging from academic and cultural groups to performing arts, volunteering, and interest-based clubs. These societies provide students with the chance to meet new people, develop skills, and engage in extracurricular activities. Regular events and competitions are hosted, promoting both social engagement and personal growth. 
  

ACCOMMODATION AT UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER 

The University of Chichester offers a variety of accommodation options, ensuring that all students have access to safe and comfortable living spaces. On-campus halls of residence provide students with convenient and affordable living arrangements, while off-campus options are also available in the surrounding area. The accommodation is modern, well-maintained, and includes amenities like Wi-Fi, study areas, and common spaces for students to relax and socialise. 

In order to make sure that students with additional medical needs get the right sort of accommodation the Disability and Dyslexia Service is able to request that the Accommodation Office reserve particular types of accommodation for individuals because of their medical condition. 
  

INTERNATIONAL FOCUS  

The University of Chichester is committed to fostering a global learning environment. It welcomes students from all over the world, providing them with opportunities to study in an internationally diverse community. The university offers a wide range of study abroad options, allowing students to gain global experiences and expand their international perspectives. 

In addition, the university has established partnerships with institutions across the globe, creating exchange programs and opportunities for students to learn about different cultures and education systems. Its international focus prepares graduates for successful careers in an interconnected and globalised world. 
  

INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS 

The university’s industry links ensure that students benefit from real-world experiences, with opportunities to network with employers, attend career fairs, and engage in professional development programs. Work-based learning is integrated into many courses, allowing students to gain hands-on experience during their studies. Additionally, the university has a strong alumni network, offering valuable mentorship and career advice for recent graduates. With its focus on practical skills, academic excellence, and industry connections, the University of Chichester supports students in securing graduate-level positions and progressing in their careers. 
  

STUDY ABROAD OPPORTUNITIES AND INTERNSHIPS 

The University of Chichester offers exciting study abroad and work experience opportunities to enrich students' academic and professional experiences. Internships are usually fixed term paid positions for graduate or undergraduate students. They can last from one to twelve months and involve specific projects, training etc. Often students are looking for three-month summer internships. 

Many of the courses include an optional work placement module. These are work-based learning opportunities relevant to the student's degree. They also offer short work placements, from 25 hours to a maximum of 12 weeks, usually during term time. 

They give students the perfect opportunity to put their knowledge into practice and learn more about the industries they are interested in. 
  

EMPLOYABILITY AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES 

The University of Chichester places a strong emphasis on employability and career opportunities, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future careers. The university provides a range of services through its Careers and Employability Team, offering tailored advice, workshops, and resources to help students enhance their employability skills. Students can access internships, work placements, and industry connections across various sectors, including business, sports, arts, and education. 
 

STUDY IN CHICHESTER 

Students at the University of Chichester can expect a well-rounded and supportive campus experience. They will find: 

  • Modern facilities like fitness centres, study spaces, cafes, and health services
  • Cultural and creative environments with galleries, performance spaces, and media labs
  • A green campus offering a mix of outdoor areas and access to natural beauty, especially on the Bognor Regis campus
  • Strong student services, including counselling, health services, and academic support
  • Opportunities for socialising and joining clubs and societies, including events and activities organised by the Student Union

Students can enjoy a balanced life, with easy access to cultural, social, and recreational activities while benefiting from a supportive academic environment. 
 

WHY STUDY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER 

The University of Chichester is an excellent choice for students looking for a supportive and dynamic learning environment with a focus on practical experience, academic excellence, and personal growth. With its rich history, specialist programs, modern facilities, and strong industry links, the university prepares students for success in their careers and beyond. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in performing arts, education, business, or any other field, the University of Chichester offers a rewarding and fulfilling university experience. 
 

DO YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE?

The information on this page has been submitted by the higher education institution itself. If you want to know more, get in touch and one of our student advisors will answer all your questions!

Across the Pond is this university’s official representative for selected countries around the world which, depending on where you are from, means we can help you apply to its courses as well as with gathering all the documents needed to submit an application. We can normally offer a speedier route to help you since the institution is hugely popular and receives enquiries from all around the world on a daily basis. We also have close ties with the university’s international facing staff and as such can explain your grades, your academic background and the educational system in your home country. Our partner universities appreciate that students who apply through Across the Pond get the help they need, not only in terms of submitting the application and supporting documents, but also with everything leading up to arrival in the UK, such as student accommodation, visa and funding information as well as preparing for departure to the UK.

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FACTS ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER 

Established: 1839 

Location: Located in the beautiful city of Chichester, England. The campus is situated just a short walk from the city centre and is also within easy reach of the stunning South Downs National Park 

Population of Chichester: Around 29,400

Closest airport: Southampton Airport is the closest airport at only 45 mins away by car

Student population: Around 6,800

International students: 
Other EU students: 1% of the student body 
Non-EU/International students: 3% of the student body 

Nationalities on campus: British, Chinese, Indian, USA, Canadian, Japanese, Australian, Philippines, Colombian, Malaysian, Nepalese

Employability rate: over 90% of graduates find employment or continuing their education within six months of graduation 
 

AREAS OF EXPERTISE/CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE 

  • Performing Arts
  • Sports and Exercise Science
  • Education
  • Business and Management
  • Creative Technologies 
     

FUN FACTS 

  • Chichester is a university town with many historic buildings and is popular for outdoor activities in the nearby South Downs. Bognor Regis is a historic seaside resort popular with tourists, with long beaches and many small villages nearby
  • Before becoming the University of Chichester, it was called Bishop Otter College and in 1873 it became a women's college as a result of Louisa Hubbard's campaign to encourage the acceptance of women as teachers. Male students were not admitted until 1957
  • During the Second World War, the University of Chichester campus played a vital role in the D-Day invasion; one of the current lecture theatres was used in 1942 as a control room for 56 RAF squadrons stationed during the Normandy invasion
  • A friendly rivalry! Each year in Term 2, the University hosts the Varsity event, where sports teams from Chichester and Winchester Universities compete in a day of friendly competition, with the winner taking home the Varsity Cup!
  • The University has one of the few Taylor Swift societies in the UK, the Swiftie Society
     

WHY CHOOSE UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER? 

  • 2025 Guardian University Guide: 26th University in the UK
  • 2023 TEF: Gold award for teaching excellence
  • 2023 Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide: top 30 in the UK for teaching quality
  • 2023 Complete University Guide: 10th University for student satisfaction in the UK
  • 2022 Complete University Guide 2023: 8th for student satisfaction in education
  • 2022 Guardian University League Tables: 5th in the UK for education course
  • The University has a Student Health Centre on each campus where you can access information. You can visit the Nurse Health Adviser there if you have any health concerns
  • Students have access to the world-class Tudor Hale Centre for Sport, providing them for all their sporting needs; academically, competitively or recreationally
  • The Chichester campus is home to a three-storey state-of-the-art Music Block, guaranteeing students a high-quality learning and rehearsal environment
  • In the 2025 The Complete University Guide League for student satisfaction: the University of Chichester was ranked:   
    • 1st for Law 

    • 3rd for Childhood and Youth Studies 

    • 3rd for Computer Science 

    • 7th for English 

    • 9th for Psychology 

    • 10th for Creative Writing. 

 

NOTABLE ALUMNI

  • Saskia Clark, MBE - British sailor and Olympic Gold medalist
  • Isabel Ashdown – writer. Her books include Glasshopper, Hurry Up and Wait, Summer of ’76, Flight, A Quiet Winter, Little Sister and Beautiful Liars
  • Bethan Roberts – writer
     

UNIVERSITY OF CHICHESTER RANKINGS

  •  The Complete University Guide League for student satisfaction 2025:
    • 1st for Law
    • 3rd for Childhood and Youth Studies
    • 3rd for Computer Science
    • 7th for English
    • 9th for Psychology
    • 10th for Creative Writing.
  • Gold award for teaching excellence - TEF 2023
  • 21st University in the UK - Guardian University Guide 2022
  • Top 30 in the UK for teaching quality - Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023
  • 10th University for student satisfaction in the UK - Complete University Guide 2023
  • 8th for student satisfaction in education - Complete University Guide 2023
  • 5th in the UK for education course - Guardian University League Tables 2022 
     
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Damara
Dance, University of Chichester

Since my BA I had the desire to study abroad. As a contemporary dancer, I wanted to explore different teaching approaches, learn new movement languages, engage with various teachers and choreographers, and observe how people from a… Read more

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❗️Please note that our university partnerships vary from region to region. Once we are in touch and know where you are from, we can indicate the options available in your country.

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We noticed you chose Norway.

There is a dedicated website for Norwegian students where you can find specific information and make an enquiry.

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There is a dedicated website for Canadian students where you can find specific information and make an enquiry.

We noticed you chose the United States.

We would love to be able to help all students in all circumstances but unfortunately US federal rules prohibit third party involvement for candidates anticipating making use of federal funding.

We noticed you chose Mexico.

There is a dedicated website for Mexican students where you can find specific information and make an enquiry.

We noticed you chose Colombia.

There is a dedicated website for Colombian students where you can find specific information and make an enquiry.

We noticed you chose Sweden.

There is a dedicated website for Swedish students where you can find specific information and make an enquiry.

We noticed you chose Chile.

There is a dedicated website for Chilean students where you can find specific information and make an enquiry.

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