University for the Creative Arts

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From fine art to film, fashion and textiles, comic and concept art, and performing arts, University for the Creative Arts is a leading creative university in the South East of England, with Schools across Surrey and Kent, as well as at partner organisations such as Maidstone Television Studios.

Join the makers of tomorrow. For nearly 170 years, the University has welcomed innovative thinkers, creative explorers, and aspiring artists into its diverse community of creators.

Talented academic staff and technicians will support you throughout your journey, sharing their expert knowledge, practical skills, and industry experience across the University’s extensive facilities.

University for the Creative Arts believes that a creative choice is a career choice. Its strong industry connections span the creative sector, helping graduates launch successful careers while continuing to develop their creative practice.

Students who successfully complete the NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) at University Foundation College (UFC) in Qatar benefit from guaranteed progression to bachelor’s degree programmes at University for the Creative Arts (subject to meeting the entry requirements) and gain access to industry focused education and strong graduate employment opportunities across the creative sector, with a focus on art, design, media, and creative innovation.

Life at University for the Creative Arts

When you join University for the Creative Arts, you will discover more than just a place to study. You will become part of a diverse and welcoming community where you can connect, grow, and develop alongside fellow creative students.

Life at the University is about creativity, collaboration, and unforgettable experiences. It is a place where you can explore new interests, develop existing passions, and make lasting friendships.

One of the highlights of student life is the wide range of clubs and societies available through the Students’ Union. Whether you are interested in K Pop dance, cheerleading, sports, culture, or other activities, there is something for everyone. The Students’ Union also hosts Winter and Spring Markets, giving students the opportunity to showcase and sell their creative work.

Discover student life at University for the Creative Arts, including clubs, societies, events, accommodation, and opportunities to connect with a vibrant creative community.

University for the Creative Arts’ dedicated Creative Careers and Employability team will support you in preparing for future employment, entrepreneurship, or further study, helping you build a successful and sustainable creative career.

Alongside learning from experienced academic staff and technicians, many of whom are practising artists and industry professionals, you will have access to personalised careers guidance throughout your studies and after graduation. The team provides expert advice based on extensive knowledge of the creative industries and current employment trends.

Students can benefit from a wide range of online resources, workshops, and industry events, as well as guidance on building professional connections and developing valuable industry networks. One to one careers support is also available to help you achieve your goals.

During your studies at University for the Creative Arts, you will take part in industry focused experiences, including live briefs, competitions, and collaborative projects with leading companies and brands. Many courses also offer opportunities to complete industry placements or internships, helping you gain practical experience and develop the skills employers are looking for.

Learn more about Careers & Professional Practice at University for the Creative Arts.

University for the Creative Arts is a leading creative university in the South East of England, with Schools across Surrey and Kent, as well as at partner organisations such as Maidstone Television Studios. Each location offers a unique student experience within vibrant towns and cities, all within easy reach of London.

Canterbury School of Art, Architecture and Design – Canterbury is renowned for its rich history, impressive architecture, and thriving café culture. The welcoming campus is located close to the city centre, with Canterbury Cathedral just a short walk away. Students can also enjoy easy access to the beautiful Kent coastline.

Epsom School of Creative Business, Fashion and Enterprise – Located on the edge of Epsom town centre, this campus offers convenient access to shops, cafés, restaurants, and entertainment. Rosebery Park, situated opposite the campus, provides an ideal space for relaxation and socialising. London is also easily accessible by train in under an hour.

Farnham School of Creative and Cultural Industries – Combining market town charm with excellent transport links, Farnham offers a vibrant and inspiring environment for creative students. The campus is surrounded by independent shops, cafés, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Nearby countryside locations, including Bourne Woods, provide beautiful outdoor spaces and have featured in numerous major film productions.

Maidstone Television Studios – Students studying television production can learn at one of the UK’s largest independent television studio facilities through University for the Creative Arts’ partnership with Maidstone Television Studios. Located in the lively town of Maidstone, the area offers excellent shopping, museums, galleries, year round events, and attractive countryside, while remaining within easy reach of both London and Canterbury.

University for the Creative Arts is committed to helping students make the most of their university experience. Through its dedicated Campus Life team, students can access advice, guidance, and support across a wide range of areas, including wellbeing, disability support, financial matters, course administration, and immigration guidance for international students.

Students seeking support for their mental health and wellbeing can access a wellbeing check in with a member of the Campus Life team. Together, they will develop a personalised support plan, which may include a referral to the University’s counselling service, where professionally qualified and experienced counsellors provide confidential support.

All students also have access to wellbeing tools and resources designed to help them proactively manage their mental health and wellbeing throughout their studies. In addition, the Campus Life team regularly organises wellbeing events and activities that support a positive and balanced student experience.

Learn more about Student Support Services at University for the Creative Arts.

Moving away from home is an exciting part of the university experience, and University for the Creative Arts is committed to helping students feel comfortable, supported, and settled throughout their studies.

Canterbury School of Art, Architecture and Design – Students can choose from two accommodation options in Canterbury: Ian Dury House, located on campus, and Riverside Student Quarter, situated approximately 20 minutes from campus on foot.

Epsom School of Creative Business, Fashion and Enterprise – Epsom offers a range of welcoming student accommodation options designed to create a supportive university community. Students can choose from Bradford House, Wilberforce Court, Crossways House, and Worple Road, all located either adjacent to the campus or within a short ten minute walk.

Farnham School of Creative and Cultural Industries – Farnham provides a variety of accommodation options, including the Student Village and University Walk, both conveniently located on campus. Additional accommodation is available at Polden Studios and Union Yard in nearby Aldershot through partnerships with purpose built student accommodation providers.

Maidstone Television Studios – While accommodation is not available directly at Maidstone Television Studios, support is provided to help students find suitable housing. First year students may also apply for accommodation in Canterbury and make use of the University’s shuttle bus service between Canterbury and the Studios.

Students who prefer private accommodation can also receive guidance and support from the University’s dedicated accommodation team to help find and secure suitable housing.

Alongside guidance from experienced academic staff and technicians who bring expert knowledge, practical skills, and industry experience, students benefit from access to a wide range of specialist facilities designed to support their chosen subject areas.

Canterbury School of Art, Architecture and Design – Home to architecture, design, fine art, and visual communication programmes, Canterbury offers extensive creative facilities including a large machine workshop, digital fabrication lab, print bureau, sculpture, painting and printmaking studios, digital media suites, motion capture studio, photographic studios, darkrooms, and dedicated animation facilities.

Epsom School of Creative Business, Fashion and Enterprise – Epsom supports creative business, fashion, and related disciplines through specialist facilities including fashion studios, sewing and pattern cutting rooms, fashion atelier workshops, make up and hair design salons, print studios, sound production facilities, photographic studios, seminar rooms, boardrooms, and video conferencing spaces.

Farnham School of Creative and Cultural Industries – Farnham is home to film, performing arts, fine art, photography, animation, crafts, graphic design, illustration, creative technology, games, and related subjects. Students have access to industry standard facilities including film soundstages, virtual production studios, motion capture and visual effects facilities, animation studios, analogue and digital photography facilities, performance spaces, sound recording and mixing studios, television and radio studios, specialist craft workshops, immersive VR environments, games development facilities, and comic and concept art studios.

Maidstone Television Studios – Students studying television production at Maidstone Television Studios benefit from learning within one of the UK’s largest independent television studio facilities, with access to live galleries, editing suites, audio production facilities, and a comprehensive range of professional broadcast equipment.

Learn more about Facilities & Resources at University for the Creative Arts.

University for the Creative Arts Students’ Union offers a variety of sports clubs, giving students the opportunity to stay active, develop new skills, and meet like minded people. From football and netball to the highly successful Hellcats Cheerleaders, students can take part in a range of activities using local sports facilities across the University’s campuses.

Beyond sports, the Students’ Union provides a diverse selection of clubs and societies covering a wide range of interests, hobbies, cultures, and creative pursuits. Whether you are looking to continue an existing passion or explore something completely new, there is something for everyone. If you cannot find a club or society that matches your interests, you can even create your own and connect with others who share your enthusiasm.

Learn more about Clubs & Societies at University for the Creative Arts.

University for the Creative Arts is committed to sustainable development and reducing the environmental impact of its teaching, research, and daily operations. Sustainability is embedded across the University through a comprehensive approach focused on eight key areas:

• A sustainability strategy developed and overseen by the Sustainability Strategy Group

• Integration of Education for Sustainability across academic programmes

• Sustainability focused research and knowledge exchange, supported by The Centre for Sustainable Design®, which has been advancing sustainability research since 1995

• A commitment to improving environmental performance, including the goal of achieving Net Zero carbon emissions from energy by 2030

• The integration of sustainability principles into procurement policies and practices

• Enhancing the availability of sustainable food options through campus catering services

• Encouraging staff and student participation in social and environmental sustainability initiatives

• Raising awareness through sustainability focused events, campaigns, and activities across the University community

Learn more about Environment & Sustainability at University for the Creative Arts.

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