Student Reviews
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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).
1409 Student reviews
Everyone is kind and willing to give time to support you, however the city is full of thieves and I have had several bikes that have been locked up, completely stolen and the police do nothing about it
N/A
No negatives.
I think its a great place to study lecturers are amazing and would recomend the course in that aspect. However when it comes to finding job opportunities and opportunities to talk to people within the motorsport industry it lacks.
the lecturers are so supportive and are there whether it’s about uni work or outside uni life
18-24 years
First gen student
It’s amazing place to study lectures are really nice and willing to help anywhere is possible. If your a student who need accessed support they are amazing I managed to get my British sign language and Notetaker’s all involved in my lectures to help me understand the tasks it’s amazing now I am really enjoying university
Pretty Great So Far
I think the facilities are very good, and there are many activities and opportunities available. However, the university buses can sometimes take a long time to arrive.
18-24 years
First gen student
The best things about the University of Derby are their facilities, support, and so on. (No worst aspects)
It has many quiet places to access to study
Great lecturers who help when you ask them. Markeaton site needs improvement like how keddleston has the gym and the nice study areas and the electric food order screens whereas markeaton just has a shop and a food canteen that isn't anywhere near as good
For me, what makes the University of Derby such a great place to study is how supportive and practice-focused it feels. As a first-year social work student, I’ve really valued how our learning isn’t just theoretical — it connects directly to real-life practice. From skills days to placement preparation, I feel like we’re genuinely being prepared for the realities of professional social work, not just assignments. The lecturers are approachable and open to conversation, which makes a huge difference. I’ve felt comfortable asking questions and reflecting on my development, especially around linking my learning to the PCF domains and Social Work England standards. That supportive environment helps build confidence, particularly when transitioning from classroom learning to placement. I also appreciate that Derby recognises that many students, like me, balance studying with work and personal responsibilities. There seems to be an understanding that we’re not just students — we’re individuals with real-life pressures — and that flexibility matters. Another strength is the emphasis on reflective practice. As someone who wants to continue developing professionally (and possibly pursue a master’s in the future), I feel encouraged to think critically about my growth rather than just aiming to pass assessments. One area that could be improved is clearer feedback and transparency around marking. When you put significant effort into assignments or presentations, it’s important to fully understand how marks are awarded and how to improve. More detailed feedback or opportunities to discuss grades in depth would help students feel more confident in the assessment process. It would also be beneficial to have even more practical simulation opportunities before placement — especially for those of us who want to feel as prepared as possible stepping into real-world practice settings.
its a very welcoming environment and when I have emailed lecturers for support they have always responded quite quickly. the facilities are great and the travel to and from university (unibus) is really affordable for students.
I love how well equipped the Uni is and I am happy to be here
35-44 years
First gen student
The lecturers on the Psychology degree are absolutely fantastic. They are all extremely knowledgeable and always ready to help. The University is extremely clean and there are always staff around keeping it tidy, both inside and out. The location of where I study (on Kedleston Road)is a bit isolated compared to student accommodation and Derby Town centre but there are very regular buses or it is an easily walkable distance.
I started in September 2025, I was nervous and very scared to join University however the student support services helped immensely and so did my personal academic tutor. I struggle with mental health and the university is helping me through it and understanding what I need to do going forward.
Lecturers are experts in their field and their enthusiasm for the subjects is contagious. Taught modules are amazing, but extensive, lecturers and seminar leaders take a great care to break complex material into understandable parts. Throughout the academic terms I have felt great support and valued as an individual rather that just numbers. Overall studying at University of Derby has not only led me to gain academic and professional skills, but also deeply impacted my personal growth.
The campus is inviting but the student unions presence is very scarce.
University of Derby is a good place to study if you are looking for a university that offers both practical and high standard state of the act teaching facilities. The university also have an amazing teaching staff that are there to support you in your learning journey.


Great uni.
Good facilities for my course
Quite expensive however great accomodation