Art Studies postgraduate degrees in North East England

Leeds Arts Univerity is small in size, meaning there are few noteworthy Student Unions in comparison to UoL, but does feel welcoming and safe. The university's student support is freindly and helpful from what I experienced; LAU is a very inclusive organisation and does strive to support students with a variety of services available. The campus is a little dull looking, with few spaces looking vibrant in contrast to the many white/grey hallways. I was able to use the Film/Photography course's cameras as a Music student, however the university's facilities seem somewhat limited as a whole, with spaces and equipment scarce close to submission time.

Northumbria's sports facilities are fantastic, I love sports central. As a sport lover it is a great place to go, super encouraging at getting students to be involved in sports whether through participating or watching. The psychology department is brilliant, nice big rooms and social spaces for independent study or group chats. Habita is cosy and big, always showing sports, fun music and cheap food and drinks.

Studying at Sheffield Hallam University offers a dynamic and varied experience shaped by academic opportunities, social life, and the realities of modern student living. Located in the heart of Sheffield, the university has built a reputation as a career-focused institution with strong links to industry, a diverse student population, and a commitment to widening participation. However, like any university, the experience is not without its challenges. This reflection explores both the best and worst aspects of studying at Sheffield Hallam, drawing on student experiences, institutional strengths, and broader contextual factors such as cost of living and academic delivery. It also includes practical “top tips” to help future students make the most of their time at the university.

Great social life, good options for student societies, a lot of student support. A lot of professionals teaching on the course and it gave me exactly what I wanted for my career progression into genetics

At a PGR level, it is more autonomous, but it is still quite a cohesive experience if you choose to engage. The uni does well for the course, there is a direct connection to industry and affinity towards making it practical. The student support could be enhanced especially at a PGR level. It's less cohort and needs more attention at a more unit-level, which I imagine is difficult to engage. It is a halfway house between student and staff, so a bit more attention to either side (or preferably both) would really enhance the experience.

What makes it a great place to study? It’s a welcoming and supportive environment where students from different backgrounds feel included and valued. As an international student, I truly appreciate the diversity, approachable lecturers, and practical teaching that helps connect learning to real-life experience. How could it be improved? Clearer communication and a little more guidance for new and international students would make the transition smoother and help everyone feel even more supported.

Best aspect: amazing facilities, highly professional tutors and staffs, everyone seems to have good heads on their shoulders. High teaching standard and it's nice meeting people from other cultural settlements. Worst aspect: more of a recommendation, extracurricular activities to establish a better inculcation, especially for foreign students. For instance, city tour for foreign students, debates, sports etc, this will facilitate better friendship between students