University of Derby

Students' Union

Derby’s active Union of Students organises a host of activities to help you get the most out of your time studying there. Freshers’ Fortnight gives you not one but two weeks of fun as you settle in to University life.

Club nights and parties will soon have you making friends, while outdoor cinemas and open mic nights provide something a little more laid-back. Sport is on offer at competitive or social level, and societies cover a range of academic subjects, hobbies and other interests. The Union is also there to represent and support you throughout your time at the University.

Derby has a vibrant and compact city center with plenty of places to eat and drink. There are cinemas, an arts center, and a good choice of entertainments, from night clubs to escape rooms, trampolining center, a Christmas ice rink, bowling and indoor golf. If you love to shop, the indoor Intu shopping center has a good selection of high street shops, while the historic Cathedral Quarter has some more individual boutiques and specialist shops.

University of Derby students on Whatuni say:

“Lots of choice of clubs and societies that aren’t all sports related and most are a reasonable price.”

“Diverse and willing to help.”

“I think the students union are extremely helpful as you can talk to them about anything and they will ensure it is kept confidential from the university. If you have any queries where they can't help you they will transfer you to the people who can help you further. To ensure the information they have provided is not forgotten they always email you what they have discussed in a password protected file. They can help with a range of tasks such as academic or personal health issues.”

Clubs and Societies

Students at Derby run a variety of societies from quidditch and theatre to cakes and cocktails. The societies fall into a range of categories – academic, active and performance, charity and campaigns, religious and cultural – so there’s plenty of opportunities to do something you enjoy or try something new. If you can’t find one you want to join, you can set one up yourself!

Students are happy with the range of societies available to them, and enjoy taking part in their events.

University of Derby students on Whatuni say:

“Good range of societies.”

“Wide variety to suit every person.”

“The clubs and societies are amazing. They range from football all the way to 3D printing. Anything you can think of, there will be a club or society for it. However if there is not then you have the ability to set one up yourself, and the students union will help you do this.”

City life

Whether you’re always on the go or like a more laid-back approach to life, you’ll find something for you in Derby. The city center has a lively buzz, with a good mix of bars, clubs and restaurants including chains like Nando’s, Wagamama and TGI Fridays.

Shops range from standard high street stores in the modern Intu Centre, to one-off boutiques in the Cathedral Quarter. Escape the crowds in one of the city’s parks, where you’ll also find events taking place year-round, from Parkrun to fairs, outdoor cinema and a classical concert.

Sports fanatics can take their pick from county cricket to Championship football; while the velodrome at Derby Arena offers the chance to watch competitive track cycling or have a go yourself.

If walking or outdoor activities are your thing, the Peak District National Park is a short distance away, easily accessible by public transport.

University of Derby students on Whatuni say:

“Derby has a great nightlife and has bars suitable for all people. The younger students can find bars with cheap drink and dancing. The older students can find nice places to eat and bars suitable to their taste. The day time provides lots of sites to visit and heritage spots.”

“The city life is good as there is plenty of places to go shopping for clothes and also plenty of places for nights out etc. There is something for everybody and the university always have the students safety at the forefront of their mind.”

“Great, lots of choices of shops and restaurants.”

Cost of a pint This is the average cost of a pint.

Source: IDP Connect 2019

£2.00 - £3.00

per pint