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Whatuni Student Choice Awards Winners 2019

This year a record 41,811 students told us what they loved (and didn’t love) about their uni. And now we can reveal who they’ve voted as the winners of the 2019 Whatuni Student Choice Awards…

This year, Whatuni travelled 43,000 miles and collected a record 41,811 reviews from current students, who weren’t shy in telling us exactly what they think about their uni experience.

And at our glamorous ceremony was hosted by comedian Omid Djalili (below), who had the crowd in stitches,  we celebrated the unis that those students have voted as the best...

So, 13 universities are now proud owners of shiny Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2019 trophies – but who are they, and what category(ies) did they win?

Here’s all the gossip from what was an amazing night…

University of the Year

Nominees:

3rd place: Loughborough University

2nd place: Aberystwyth University

WINNER: Swansea University  

Congrats to Swansea University, who jump up seven places to regain the crown they last won back in 2014. It’s been an amazing year for Swansea, with [spoiler alert] wins in two categories and nominations in a total of seven.

Swansea Uni offers everything a student could want from a university: excellent teaching and student support, great job prospects, and an amazing way of life, being located next to both a stunning beach and a bustling city centre.

It’s no wonder then that the vast majority of the 3,600+ reviews we’ve had from Swansea students are extremely positive about life here…

“Great. Best few years of my life. Couldn't ask for a better place to study an undergraduate degree. Super friendly and inclusive, great events and the experience is fantastic.” Jack S., History and Politics with a Year Abroad BA (Hons), Feb 2019

“Very good, having an amazing time and don’t want to leave”. Hermione, Marine Biology with a Year in Industry BSc (Hons), March 2019

“Happiest I have ever been. I am never leaving Swansea and helped me grow academically and overall as a person. Best choice ever and has beautiful beaches and parks”. Jessica, Ancient History and Politics BA (Hons) Feb 2019

Accommodation

Nominees:

3rd place: Bangor University

2nd place: Edge Hill University

WINNER: Loughborough University

Loughborough Uni has performed consistently well in the Accommodation category over the past few years, since winning the award back in 2015. And this year they take it home with them again.

Over 5,500 undergraduate students live in one of Loughborough’s 16 halls of residence, which are located right at the heart of the campus. They have a choice of catered or self-catered halls, all of which offer high-quality living with a real community spirit.

We have over 1,400 student reviews about Loughborough and many of them praise their accommodation, giving it a full five stars:

“Very good halls. Excellent staff and a great community feel.” Hannah, Computer Science BSc (Hons)

“I love it is amazing. I have an en-suite which is perfect. The facilities are to the highest standard” Jessica, Computer Science BSc (Hons)

“Elvyn Richards [halls] - so good I returned for 2nd year” Sophie, International Business BSc (Hons), Dec 2018

City Life 

Nominees:

3rd place: University of Bristol

2nd place: Northumbria University, Newcastle

WINNER: University of Edinburgh

University of Edinburgh take the award for best City Life for the second time (they won it back in 2017) and there’s no wonder… the Scottish capital is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with a whole host of amazing things to see and do

Student who submitted reviews loved the fact that Edinburgh has good student nightlife, feels safe, and is a good size for getting around:

“Edinburgh is so lively, but also not so big that it's overwhelming.” Tara, German and Linguistics MA (Hons), Dec 2018

“I love Edinburgh, there is so much going on and it's easy to get to anything.” Olivia, French and Russian Studies Dec 2018

“Great food, good clubs, nice people, beautiful city.” Lucy, Philosophy and English Language MA (Hons) Dec 2018

Clubs & Societies

Nominees:

3rd place: University of Exeter

2nd place: Loughborough University

WINNER: Bangor University

Bangor University take home the trophy for best clubs and societies for the third year running (this is the fourth time they’ve bagged this award since WUSCAs began). And it’s not hard to see why they keep winning…

They offer over approximately 200 clubs and societies for students to choose from - ranging from sports and fitness clubs  like cricket, canoe polo, pole fit, and quidditch, to societies about birdwatching and medieval re-enactment.

We’ve had nearly 2,000 student reviews for Bangor University, with many students praising the variety and, most importantly for those living on a limited student budget, the fact that every single one is completely free to join!

“The clubs and societies are welcoming and enjoyable. There is one for almost everyone and if there isn't one for you, then you can create your own.” Iouanna, English Literature BA (Hons) Feb 2019

“AMAZING!!! so many to choose from and they're all free to join. each society is a little family, can try anything out and find where you fit in, phenomenal!” Lucy, Applied Marine Biology BSc (Hons) Feb 2019

“All societies are free to join (something my friends from other universities are very jealous of). We have over 200 societies of all kinds, with enough variety to include and accommodate every person from every walk of life. I have made many friends and connections through the various societies I am a part of. Committee positions are a great opportunity for us to get experience in a position of leadership and responsibility.” Natasha, Zoology BSc (Hons) Feb 2019

Course & Lecturers

Nominees:

3rd place: Swansea University

2nd place: Harper Adams University

WINNER: University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Jumping from 4th last year, to winners this year, University of Wales Trinity Saint David offer excellent standards of teaching. Students are taught in small class sizes by lecturers who are passionate about their subjects and there are plenty of interactive lectures and field trips on offer.

The university offers many courses which include the potential to spend time either abroad or in an industry placement, allowing students to gain real-world experience. Students can also customise their degrees with elective modules.

Here's just some of the feedback we collected from students:

“Small classes, learning feels personal. Lecturers very approachable” Rachel, Business Management BA (Hons) Feb 2019

“The class sizes are very small and you have a personal experience rather than big lecture theatres.” Heather, Education Studies BA (Hons) Feb 2019

“I like the fact that lecturers have a wide range of knowledge of various industries and are readily available to answer any questions you may have. A down-to-earth approach means you can converse as equals and really feel integrated into lectures and workshop sessions.”  Sam, Motorsport Engineering BEng (Hons) Dec 2018

Job Prospects

Nominees:

  • Bangor University
  • Edge Hill University
  • Harper Adams University
  • Hartpury University
  • Loughborough University
  • Royal Agricultural University
  • Swansea University
  • University of Bath
  • University of Cambridge
  • University of Oxford

3rd place: Loughborough University

2nd place: Hartpury University

WINNER: Harper Adams University

[Spoiler alert #2!] The first of Harper Adams University’s two awards of the night came in a category they have topped for the fourth year running.

And it’s no wonder students keep putting them first for job prospects, with graduate employment currently at a rate of 97.2%. This high figure is a result of Harper Adams’ dedication to providing students with the skills and necessary experience they need to prosper in the world of work, and their strong industry links.  

Here's what students had to say about Harper Adams:

“Placement year a good opportunity for future jobs.” Sallie, Animal Management and Welfare FdSc, Nov 2018

“Lots of practical tutorials, 10-week placement in 1st year and 3rd year placement.” Liv, Veterinary Nursing BSc (Hons)

“Help to find placements and sessions to help prepare us, lots of practicals included for real-life experiences.Ruby, Veterinary Nursing with Small Animal Rehabilitation BSc (Hons)

Student Support

Nominees:

  • Bangor University
  • Bishop Grosseteste University
  • Edge Hill University
  • Harper Adams University
  • Hartpury University
  • Leeds Arts University
  • Loughborough University
  • Swansea University
  • University of Chichester
  • University of Sunderland

3rd place: Bishop Grosseteste University

2nd place: Leeds Arts University

WINNER: Harper Adams University

Harper Adams University’s second win came in a category they’ve also won before… this is the fifth – yes, fifth – year they’ve won this category!

Harper Adams take the welfare of their students very seriously… they have a qualified BACP  counsellor and a Mental Health and Welfare advisor who provide personal and confidential support for students. Not only that, they have onsite student services to help with a range of general financial and health-related issues and learning support for those with learning disabilities.

“Absolutely amazing student services and tutors can help with every need.” Ruby, Veterinary Nursing with Small Animal Rehabilitation BSc (Hons) Nov 2019

“Somebody is always there to help whether it is emotional/ academic/ financial.”  Jack, Animal Management and Welfare FdSc Nov 2019

“So much support and student services are lovely and understanding.” Dana, Bioveterinary Science BSc (Hons)

Students’ Union

Nominees:

3rd place: Cardiff University

2nd place: Loughborough University

WINNER: University of Sheffield

This is the third time in a row the University of Sheffield has walked away with the honour of having the best Students’ Union, as voted by students themselves. Their £20 million SU building is home to a 400-seat cinema, a performance space where students can watch open-mic and comedy nights or take part in pub quizzes, and a nightclub which caters to all musical tastes and attracts top bands and DJs.

Here’s what Sheffield students told us about their SU:

“Amazing club nights volunteer societies, amazing collections, just great!” Alex, Clinical Neurology MSc Feb 2019

“So much stuff to do and loads of diversity.” Laura, Chemical Engineering BEng (Hons)

“The best student union in the country loads of social space, places to eat, help centres, banking and more.” Rosie, Health and Human Sciences BMedSci (Hons)

Uni Facilities

Nominees:

  • Arts University Bournemouth
  • Edge Hill University
  • Harper Adams University
  • Hartpury University
  • Leeds Arts University
  • Loughborough University
  • Norwich University of the Arts
  • Nottingham Trent University
  • University of Dundee
  • University of Leeds

3rd place: Edge Hill University

2nd place: Loughborough University

WINNER: Leeds Arts University

Last year’s bridesmaid is once again the bride – regaining the award they last won in 2016 (they also bagged this award in 2014).

Students who choose Leeds Arts University can expect top class facilities, including music studios, fashion and design workshops, and 3D art and printing workshops. Not only that, Leeds Arts have just opened a brand-new £22million building, housing a 230-seat auditorium, plus film and photography studios filled with industry-standard equipment.

Here's what students think of their university...

“They are amazing! We have access to a wide range of facilities and after being inducted to them, we are allowed to use any facilities even if they are not primarily for our department. The new building in specific is very nice and had very nice studios for photography!” Shamita, Graphic Design BA (Hons) Feb 2019

“Excellent facilities that we are introduced to at the beginning of our course and are encouraged to use for our studies and personal work throughout our time there.” Jennifer, Graphic Design BA (Hons)

“Amazing, I can't fault all the workshops and inductions I have had relating to my course for instance Print, Textile Print etc. Apart from the odd printer and scanner or annoying computer, I find the facilities are great and really inspire me. The new library is a lovely quiet place to work, and there are great sources of research available to use! I highly rate repographics also.” Zak, Textile Design BA (Hons) Feb 2019

International

Nominees:

  • Aberystwyth University 
  • Arts University Bournemouth
  • Bangor University
  • Buckinghamshire New University
  • Edge Hill University
  • Loughborough University
  • Nottingham Trent University
  • Swansea University
  • University of Sunderland
  • University of Worcester

3rd place: Bangor University

2nd place: Aberystwyth University

WINNER: Swansea University

Jumping six places from last year, this award was Swansea’s second of the evening. Staff and students from over 130 countries make Swansea’s community truly multicultural.

They offer a huge amount of support to all international students from helping in arranging visas and with immigration, to ongoing dedicated face-to-face welfare and education support for students with any issues they face, to support post-graduation to help with employability.

Here’s what Swansea’s international students had to say:

“I love it! The university does a lot for international students. Either on the academical side with very good teachers and a good support, but also on the other sides of life at Swansea with trips organised and "Skills for Life" sessions, enabling us to meet new people and try a lot of new things!” Louise, Business Management (Business Analytics) BSc (Hons)

“I love Swansea Uni, it’s one of the best in the UK. As an international student, it is really good that I feel like I can blend in to the community and environment. I’m also a volleyball player and I play for the Swansea women’s 1st team. I really love my team and my club, they are the best people I know!” Hei Man Tiffany, TESOL and English Language BA (Hons)

“I wish I could stay forever.. thats how good it is. From the nights out, to the accommodation and activities. Plus, as an international student, they really make you feel as part of them. Never have I ever experienced even the slightest bit of racism which to me is really nice. I just love this place more and more each day and feel it was the right place.” Geoffery Tum, Law and Politics LLB (Hons)

Postgraduate

Nominees:

  • Aberystwyth University 
  • Bangor University
  • Bournemouth University
  • Loughborough University
  • Nottingham Trent University
  • Swansea University
  • University of Southampton
  • University of South Wales
  • University of Stirling
  • University of Worcester

3rd place: Loughborough University

2nd place: Swansea University

WINNER: Aberystwyth University

Winning this award for the second year in a row, Aberystwyth Uni offers a high standard of Postgraduate learning in the UK. In the 2014 Research Excellence Framework, 95% of the university’s research was of an internationally recognised standard. The university was also awarded Gold in the 2018 Teaching Excellence Framework.

Almost a fifth of Aberystwyth’s students are studying for postgraduate degrees and they are very happy with the quality of courses and facilities on offer…

 “The university is great and very welcoming and offers support when you need it in any situation.” Manon, Law PhD, September 2018

“So much fun. Very challenging but, so much fun! The best recommendation for future students, although the place is small, it is like a family, by scratching the surface of what this university can offer will show just how inclusive and supportive it is. There is a place for everyone here.” Ben, International Politics, Jan 2019

“Knowledgeable staff, friendly and approachable lecturers. Excellent library resources and staff… Careers department offer training sessions and resources, work placements available.” Lloyd Roderick, Art History PhD, July 2018

Independent HE

Nominees:

3rd place: dBs Music

2nd place: Point Blank Music School

WINNER: Norland College

Last years runners-up, Norland College take the top spot this year. Celebrating its 125th birthday this year, the college offers those wishing to work with children a BA in Early Years Development alongside their own Diploma. The course mixes theoretical study with practical real-world experience.

The college has received many academic accolades, including a TEF Gold award and can now add a Whatuni Student Choice Award to that list. Students studying there told us:

“I have loved being at Norland and it was the best decision I ever made to train here. This is experience is found nowhere else, it is unique. The amount of experience and support you receive really helps whilst studying.” Jess, Early Years Development and Learning BA (Hons), Feb 2019

“Our lessons can be very hands on and interactive, which makes the academic side fun and enjoyable.” Isobel, Early Years Development and Learning BA (Hons), Feb 2019

“I have loved every minute, the staff are very supportive! I can’t believe that my time is almost over! I have learnt so much and have progressed within my work thanks to the support of both students and staff.” Sofia, Early Years Development and Learning BA (Hons), Feb 2019

Giving Back

Nominees:

3rd place: Cardiff University       

2nd place: Newcastle University

WINNER: Birkbeck, University of London

The first of two awards judged by our very own Student Advisory Board, Birkbeck won for their ‘Lives in Translation’ campaign which raised money for two charities: Red T and Colleagues Across Borders, who both work with refugees working as translators in refugee camps.

The students felt that the cause of this campaign was unique and rated it highly for innovation. They also praised the level of participation from Birkbeck’s students in creating and developing the campaign.

Finally they felt that the level of money and awareness raised was impressive and that it would inspire others to take part in future campaigns.

Further Education College

Nominees:

3rd place: Solihull College & University Centre

2nd place: Blackpool and the Fylde College

WINNER: DN Colleges Group

Last year’s runners-up, DN Colleges Group take the trophy this year. Their continuous investment in and commitment to their 2,000+ Higher Education students is clearly paying off, with their range of bachelor’s degrees and HNC/HND courses – which are validated either by one of their university partners or industry bodies – getting excellent reviews from their students…

“Overall being a mature student I feel that I was put at ease straight away, nothing is to much trouble for the staff and tutors, this is my 1st year and I absolutely love it I wished I’d done it a lot sooner, it’s a great experience especially when learning from tutors that are so passionate about their area of expertise, that on its own makes you want to learn.” Heidi, English and History Studies BA (Hons) Feb 2019

“The teaching has been fab, the classes are a good size and I've made friends so easily. Tutors are always available for support and the HE support team provide some fantastic advice and guidance.” Charlotte, Business Management BA (Hons) Feb 2019

“My experience so far at the university centre has been excellent. I have learned so much, made friends and enjoyed my time here. It has started to feel like a home away from home, and I love being here.” Maxine W, Applied Social Science BA (Hons) Feb 2019

Prospective Student Engagement

Nominees:

3rd place: University of Gloucestershire

2nd place: Southampton Solent University

WINNER: Goldsmiths, University of London

The second award judged by our Student Advisory Board members, Goldsmiths impressed with its ‘One Goldsmiths’ engagement campaign, which involved the use of dynamic imagery, creative two-line slogans, and heavy personalisation.

Here’s what our board members thought of Goldsmiths’ campaign:

“It appeals to many students and so appeals to a large audience which will really increase their popularity.”

“Powerful, positive and vivid campaign that could inspire people to go to Goldsmiths.”

“Makes students feel part of the community of Goldsmiths from the ad to the open day and beyond.”

To see our full WUSCA rankings, head right this way...

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