Theology, Philosophy and Ethics (with Foundation Year) - BA (Hons)

Lincoln Bishop University

The campus has a lovely and homey feel; it isn't too big to get lost in, and all the staff are amazing! The facilities and library are well kept up with the addition the student ambassadors have put into the university.

Lincoln Bishop University is very small, which may not be ideal for some people, but I prefer things quaint, so this was the perfect place. My lecturers have been available for support almost 24/7 (they aren't required to be, they just go above and beyond for their students!). The library is small, like the university, but it has endless online access to academic resources and (a literal) 24/7 computer suite for any late night/early morning studies. Campus staff have been so helpful during my time here, even in trivial matters like tracking down a lost water bottle for me (something you probably won't find at bigger universities!). My Theology course has had an endless supply of module topics, deepening my academic understanding - even for things I had studied previously. My lectures have been so crucial for my understanding, able (and willing) to explain and re-explain if any student isn't quite grasping the subject (very useful in our philosophy module!). Assignments (graded) are very balanced, majority are written essays, but some are multi-media (e.g. presentation on chosen subject coupled with an essay evaluation on your presentation). I admit that I struggled with this concept at first because I prefer writing assignments and couldn't see the value in being graded on a PowerPoint; however , with aspirations to be a lecturer myself one day, being given the opportunity to make palatable, valuable presentations has given me a head start to teaching others. Another early assignment we were given was to produce a research project proposal, which enabled us to understand what was expected from us in our dissertation proposals (as well as going forward into higher degrees). The campus has a designated learning facility for anyone who is struggling with their assignments, or perhaps feels embarrassed to talk to their lecturers directly - I went here myself for advice about an assignment brief (I didn't want to ask my lecturer because then they would've known that I left it until the last minute!). The campus is also very open about mental health and has pages around campus and on the university website titled "wellbeing", which includes helpful guides on how to manage specific feelings and even breathing exercises. They also have a "student in crisis" page with information and contacts to crisis lines, as well as 24/7 on-site crisis staff. I am a student with access needs, and all staff have been incredibly helpful and understanding about that as well as checking in with me about if/how my condition has changed. My time at Lincoln Bishop has been exceptional overall and I cannot recommend it enough. Lincoln is a historically rich, beautiful city and Lincoln Bishop University is equally such.

LBU is an incredibly inviting and supportive place to study. Its small size, relative to other universities, results in a very personal experience when it comes to tutelage and support. The academic and pastoral staff have time for the students and you feel like a valued member of the community. That being said, the faculty is often disorganised and inefficient. Personal issues can be solved easily, administrative issues on the other hand are often a pain to work out. The library is also under-developed, this likely comes with the territory of being a small university. Often times the library will have everything you need, but when you find a gap in the collection, it is usually a glaring omission.

I have excellent support from both my PhD supervisors. Even through the whole doctoral studies route is fraught with obstacles, uncertainty and doubt, I keep finding ways to keep going to make sure that this level of study is worth it. I have access to Lincoln Bishop University support services, resources and the beautiful campus. As spring approaches, campus starts to feel so colourful and uplifting. Yes, the study side of things is hard, perhaps it should be, but I do have what I need to carry on.

It's unclear where some rooms are if you are not told previously, and even then, some of them aren't sign-posted. Lecturers are helpful, and the small lectures give you more room to ask questions.