Computing and IT HND/HNC degrees

The University of Gloucestershire offers a comprehensive range of facilities and a vibrant student life across its three campuses: The Park and Francis Close Hall in Cheltenham, and Oxstalls in Gloucester. Situated in the picturesque surroundings of Cheltenham and Gloucester, students have the opportunity to explore the beautiful Cotswolds, attend world-famous festivals, and enjoy diverse shopping and dining experiences. The area offers a rich mix of music, sports, and entertainment venues, contributing to a vibrant student life. The Francis Close Hall and Oxstalls campus libraries provide 24/7 access to extensive collections, IT resources, wireless printing, and photocopying services. Across the university, students have access to over 500 computers, free Wi-Fi, and loanable laptops. Media equipment, including camcorders and dictaphones, is also available, with digital editing software installed on all library PCs. The university boasts a variety of specialist facilities tailored to different disciplines. For instance, the Oxstalls campus houses the Business School and Growth Hub, featuring a live trading room, innovative teaching spaces, and a moot court room. Additionally, the campus offers an international-standard sports arena, 3G pitches, and a cricket pavilion and pitch. The University of Gloucestershire fosters a diverse student community where individuals from various backgrounds learn together while embracing university life. The Chapel at Francis Close Hall offers a tranquil space for reflection, providing mental and emotional support for students seeking peace amidst their academic journey. This inclusive environment enhances student well-being, encouraging a sense of belonging and personal growth. A potential area for improvement would be the provision of short-term university accommodation for students in need, particularly at the postgraduate level. Given the unique challenges faced by these students—such as research commitments, placements, or unforeseen personal circumstances—offering flexible housing options would greatly enhance their academic experience and overall well-being. This initiative would reflect the university's commitment to student support, ensuring that all scholars have access to a stable and conducive living environment during critical phases of their studies.

Support Services are amazing. They go out of their way to support my peers and me. They are a credit to the university. - Lecturers are very supportive, especially with assignments University halls are in desperate need of refurbishing. Harry Law, Bateson and Rees are the main offenders. Generally, the university's estates need investment.

There is great support for students and facilities, especially for photography. I have been able to create high-quality prints and experiment with various cameras and lighting. As well as knowing that my lecturers are there to support me. The building is situated well in the centre of Cardiff, with it being very accessible to various student accommodations, shops, places to go out and transport links. However, the student union could host more events to bring students together even more.

The lecturer’s are great and definitely give you your money’s worth. But just two days a week for so much money slightly undermines the goal of the university. I believe adding more classes, and more time to spend on each module can increase student engagement and attendance. The facilities are great as well, however some are poorly maintained and its not clear what softwares are installed in which studios which can lead to a big waste of time for students who book it to practice. Better management of the cafeteria with better stocking will also help.

Facilities (5) - I truly believe that my degree is perfectly accommodated for just by looking at the facilities on offer. Not only that, but the actual hive bar is brilliant and there is lots of space for everyone. Location (3) - Although the building itself looks fabulous where it is, to get there you have to cross a very busy main road that sometimes can be dangerous and with it being outside of the AO arena, it makes it hard being there when a concert or show is on. With that being said however, the fact it is barely a 10 minute walk from Victoria station makes it very easy for me as a commuter. Student Support (4) - I believe that UCEN goes above and beyond when trying to support students, particularly with their schemes on offer to help those less financially stable. The only thing I’d say is maybe make it a bit more obvious where to access these support by putting posters up around the campus. Campus Look and Feel (5) - It is clear that there has been a lot of work gone into the campus itself which makes it a really beautiful and welcoming place to be. The campus actually featured on the latest season of Waterloo Road so I am pretty sure that this only goes to show how incredible it is. Student Life (4) - As far as I am aware, as a commuter student, the campus is brilliant for somebody like me as I can easily get there everyday providing the trains are running, but I do feel that with the location of the campus, students find it relatively difficult to find accommodation on offer around it, and therefore, this can make it difficult for students to really get to grips with student life when not being close to the campus or city centre. Students Union (5) - The students union is always thriving, there is always something going on that they have put together in the hive, and it is really a pleasure to get involved in these things and take a break from the degree for a moment. Whether that be painting or putting on a movie night, they really do go above and beyond. They also promote our concerts and events which is lovely to see.