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The overall ranking is decided by students from this institution rating them in a 2026 Whatuni review. This forms the basis of the Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs for short).
4.04.13.61409 Student reviews
Sort:Latest reviewsThere is little student support, when counselling is offered they cannot work around your scheduled lecture timetables. They have a climbing wall that you have to pay to use, and no pool. The nearest swimming pool is a 2 hour walk from Kedleston Campus. Really inconvenient. Kedleston is quite far away from the student housing, however there is a uni bus, but you need to pay to use that as of August 2025. Student life is lacking, the best club closed down leaving only 3 clubs. Best student night gone. The halls are good, Nunnery Court is good. Student support is a little lacking, usually with big queues and nowhere to sit while you wait. The Union didn't have enough power to help my friends when needed. Good luck if your lectures are at Markeaton or even worse the dreaded Britannia Mill. Wow those places are bleak. I felt like I was visiting a technical college each lecture, the cafeteria closes at 4pm or so. Absolutely extortionate prices for really bad food. I had a breakfast there once, the cardboard knife could not cut the hash brown, everything was hard and left under a heat lamp. It is not a friendly atmosphere, more like a hospital. It's like you're encouraged to go home. And those cold, white hospital lights.
Everything is too good . I would like to say this is the best university I have ever seen in my life
I think the school is great I enjoy the library
Overall lecturers and tutors are always happy to help whether you’re unsure with something or you need help with work. Student wellbeing center and student office are also a great help with any financial wellbeing help or anything you need help with in university. They also have a great team in order to help you achieve the right placement or graduate scheme if you look into doing a placement during your second year or after you graduate.
All of the university buildings are within around a 30 minute walk of each other, with free buses connecting them. There is a variety of places within all of the buildings to study and are nice environments to work in. One significant struggle a lot of people have is finding employment, but the university actively employs loads of students which can definitely help take that burden away.
The place is great and accommodates everyone, its diverse and the welcome was great. Easy to mingle with other students and pleasant atmosphere. So far I haven't got any issues or any adjustments.
The best are the lecturers, they are ever ready and willing to help when needed. They will encourage you to be your best. My first year PAT is the best thing that happened to me. My first nightmare was during my first placement at the Uni. I had no understanding of MyPad just as most students . I was badly judged and noted down by one particular lecturer whom in my opinion was unprofessional in her attitude towards my predicament. Things has changed now and I am a happy DERBY student
18-24 years
First gen student
It's a friendly environment, but I spend more time traveling to uni than actually being there.
Reflecting on my academic year so far, I can confidently say that university has been a great experience. I have thoroughly enjoyed my studies, and the overall atmosphere of learning has been both stimulating and engaging. One of the best aspects of university life for me has been the opportunity to socialize and form meaningful connections. The friendships I have made and the sense of belonging I feel have greatly enhanced my overall experience. Furthermore, I feel genuinely cared for by my lecturers. Their dedication and willingness to support students are evident, and it makes a significant difference in fostering a positive learning environment. From an academic standpoint, I have found it relatively easy to navigate and familiarize myself with the various systems and structures in place. The organization of resources and accessibility of academic materials have helped ensure that I stay on top of my coursework. Classes have been engaging, and I appreciate the depth of knowledge I am gaining. However, there are a few challenges that I have encountered, which I believe could be addressed to further enhance the student experience. One of the main drawbacks for me has been the food. While this may seem minor compared to academic concerns, the quality and variety of food options available could be improved. Proper nutrition is vital for maintaining energy and focus, and I feel that better options would contribute positively to student well-being. Another challenge I have faced is the academic pressure that comes with a demanding course. While I understand and accept that rigorous coursework is part of the journey, there are times when I feel emotionally overwhelmed. The guidance provided is valuable, but I sometimes struggle with approaching staff for help, as I worry that seeking assistance might result in receiving additional information that could add to my stress. This has led to moments where I feel like I am falling behind, even though I work hard to stay on track. Although the academic systems in place are helpful, they can also be quite complicated, making it difficult to always stay fully updated. A possible solution that could greatly benefit students would be the introduction of motivational talks or workshops. These could focus on success stories, opportunities available after graduation, and ways to maintain a balanced and positive outlook on university life. Having such sessions could help inspire students and create a more emotionally supportive environment where individuals feel encouraged to express their struggles and aspirations with their peers. Despite the challenges, I genuinely love my academic course. It is fulfilling and aligns with my interests and goals. However, there are times when I feel exhausted, as though I am constantly fighting hard but not always seeing immediate success. This can be discouraging, but it does not take away from my overall happiness and satisfaction with university life. One concern I have is that if I were to express feelings of stress or emotional fatigue, there is a chance that the response might be overly cautious, with staff prioritizing safeguarding measures. While it is essential to ensure students' well-being, sometimes all we need is a supportive conversation rather than intervention. Additionally, I believe there should be more structured systems that promote organization, guidance, and stronger friendship dynamics to help students navigate university life more effectively. In conclusion, my academic year has been a mix of fantastic experiences and inevitable challenges. While I appreciate the quality of education, the social aspects, and the support from lecturers, I believe that small improvements in student support systems, emotional well-being initiatives, and community-building activities could further enhance the university experience for all students.
Campus is close to such beautiful places and countryside towns such as matlock so there are plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy the countryside scenery. Campus is also located in the city centre so lots of things to do, places to shop and also clubbing! Plenty of societies and social opportunities provided so easy to make friends and meet new people. Only critique is student halls and accommodation could do with a refurb and update however private accommodations in derby are a good alternative.
More events other than society events like on campus
The university of Derby offers a supportive and welcoming environment with excellent facilities, approachable staff, and a variety of extracurricular activities that enhance the student experience. the university provides strong career services, including work experience opportunities, events, and student talks that contribute to personal and professional growth. overall, it's a great place to study with a friendly atmosphere and good opportunities for academic and personal development.
Studying at the University of Derby has been an incredible experience! From the moment I joined, I felt welcomed and supported by both staff and students. The university offers a fantastic learning environment, with modern facilities, well-equipped libraries, and access to a range of resources that have really helped me excel in my studies. One of the standout aspects is the quality of teaching. The lecturers are not only knowledgeable in their fields but also genuinely care about students’ success. They go the extra mile to provide guidance and support, making learning engaging and interactive. The small class sizes mean you get more personal attention, which has really helped me grow academically and p rofessionally. The campus itself is vibrant and friendly, with plenty of places to study, socialize, and relax. The student union organizes a variety of events and activities, so there’s always something to get involved in, whether it’s clubs, societies, or networking opportunities. Plus, Derby is a great city to live in—affordable, safe, and full of things to do! The university also places a strong emphasis on employability, offering career support, placement opportunities, and industry connections that make a real difference when preparing for the future. Overall, I highly recommend the University of Derby to anyone looking for a supportive, high-quality education in a great location. My time here has been unforgettable, and I feel well-prepared for my future career!
when moving to Uni I was really nervous but it all grew on me. I really enjoy the quiet life and due to my course it allows me to get into a routine that I can love and appreciate. All my teacher definitely push to having a chill and creative environment, but also if I have any issues or problems I do feel comfortable expressing any concern. looking at where my dorm is location wise I love it because I'm close to all building that have my classes and close to all shops so I can get my daily shopping for a great price. The issues that I still struggle with since moving here is friends due to my course I normally spend a lot of time on my own drawing (not even necessarily to do with work for my course but simple because I enjoy it and want to get better),due to this and switching to this course on the first week of Uni I don't have many friends. I have tried to go to more social activities but to be honest I feel a little guilt because i tell myself there is work I could be doing instead. I still do have all intention to make friends in Uni and still push my self to events.
Great uni. great staff. City’s bit boring so suited for stem students.
good.
The facilities are new and work well, but the library roof is constantly leaking, meaning that buckets cover the floor of the library. The lecturers are dedicated and the free uni buses are an amazing feature of the university, meaning that I can get into uni easily.
Having the support from staff, light airy rooms. Being kept up to date on our progress.
They facilities are amazing. it’s such a good university! Parking in and around the uni is limited.
4.3
I enjoy studying here as everything is quite close to the university. The course is very interesting and also the staff are really good at communication and are always there if you need them, in fact they encourage you to come to them for whatever problems you may have. The building, whilst modern, is very up to date and large, with lots of different facilities that are easy to find. The only thing I can think of improving is bringing back the bookshop they had in the main campus, as that was a nice place to go.
The course is taught in person, With 9 hours of studies per week. It allows you to have a lot of free time for yourself as well as studying at home. The staff are very supportive and are always there whenever you may need them.
Absolutely amazing halls, i have stayed here first year and second year. The hall manager Kirk is so lovely and very accommodating and is always there if there is ever a problem. I feel very safe there.