University of Cumbria

University of Cumbria Ranking 2024/25

The University of Cumbria is not ranked by U.S. News and Times Higher Education in their National Universities rankings. However, it maintains a steady position, holding the 601st spot in the QS World University Rankings (Europe) for 2024/25 and 116th in the Guardian University Guide (UK).

Its consistent focus on practical learning, industry-aligned programs, and career outcomes helps explain its strong standing in employability-focused rankings. Here’s an overview of University of Cumbria rankings:

While rankings provide valuable insights, it’s essential to understand how individual courses within the university rank. Let’s explore into the course-wise rankings for 2024/25.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2024/25

The University of Cumbria ranks #15 in the UK for Law (Guardian 2025) and places within the top 100 for Nursing and Business. These subject-level rankings highlight its focus on practical, career-driven education.

Strong student satisfaction and graduate outcomes support its rising profile. Below is a detailed overview of the University of Cumbria's top course rankings:

Now that you’ve explored rankings at the course level, it’s time to look at the admission process at the University of Cumbria.

The University of Cumbria Admissions 2025 welcomes students from over 60 countries with multiple intakes and a straightforward online application process. Most courses have no application fee, and the admissions process takes 4-8 weeks. New offerings for 2025 include the Pears Cumbria School of Medicine and a Barrow campus.

To ensure you’re fully prepared for the application process, here are the requirements you’ll need to meet.

Admission Requirements

The University of Cumbria requires applicants to be at least 18 and submit original academic transcripts, with certified translations if not in English. Language proficiency levels for English are essential, with multiple testing options and an internal test available.

Let’s explore each requirement in detail, starting with academic qualifications.

Academic Qualification

Admission to the University of Cumbria is based on clear academic benchmarks aligned with UK standards. Cumbria outlines distinct UG and PG requirements, whether you're applying from India, with a Class 12 qualification or holding an international bachelor’s degree.

Beyond grades, the university may also assess portfolios, interviews, or relevant work experience depending on the course. 

Here are the admission requirements for studying at the University of Cumbria:

Language Proficiency

The University of Cumbria sets precise English language requirements to ensure students can fully engage with its programs. For instance, the LLB (Hons) Law program requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.5, with no component below 5.5.

An internal English test is also available for those who meet other admission criteria but lack external certification. Here are the typical language proficiency details:

Competitive Exams

The University of Cumbria considers various competitive exams for admission, such as SAT scores (e.g., 550+ in maths for a Bachelor of Science) and exams for studying abroad, like GCE and ACT, based on the applicant's country and program.

These criteria help ensure that students are well-prepared for the academic demands of their chosen course. Here is a table detailing the specific criteria for each competitive exam required by the University of Cumbria:

Visa Requirements

Securing a student visa for UK is essential for international students at the University of Cumbria. The university, holding a UKVI sponsor licence, guides students through the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) process and necessary documentation checks.

In 2024, the UK maintained a 96% student visa approval rate, with most refusals due to incomplete documents, insufficient funds, or application errors. 

Here are the typical visa requirements:

With the admissions requirements sorted, it’s time to focus on crucial deadlines for the upcoming intake.

Application Deadline and Intakes

The University of Cumbria offers multiple intakes for undergraduate and postgraduate students. The central intake for undergraduates is in September, with the UCAS equal consideration deadline on 29 January 2025 (Closed) and a final international deadline of 30 June 2025.

Here are some essential deadlines and intake periods for various programs:

Understanding the difference between September & January intake is crucial for deciding which intake aligns with your academic and personal schedule, as each intake has unique advantages and challenges.

Having explored deadlines, let’s move on to a key factor in determining the financial feasibility of studying at the University of Cumbria.

The University of Cumbria courses include more than 100 undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs, designed to combine academic knowledge with hands-on experience.

Each program is developed with a strong career focus, from business and education to health, arts, law, and conservation. New additions like the BSc Business Management and BSc Ecology and Wildlife Conservation reflect the university’s responsiveness to emerging fields.

Here are some key programs at the University of Cumbria:

• Nursing (Adult, Mental Health, and Children’s Nursing): NMC-approved programs with clinical placements in NHS trusts across the UK.
• BA (Hons) Primary Education with QTS: Prepares students for teaching roles, combining classroom theory with school-based training.
• Business Management: Offers modules in marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship, with placement options and live industry projects.
• Occupational Therapy: Designed for those aiming to become qualified occupational therapists, focusing on practical and theoretical aspects.
• Outdoor Leadership / Adventure Media: Unique to Cumbria’s Lake District location, these courses focus on practical outdoor skills, filming, and sustainability.
• BSc (Hons) Conservation and Ecosystem Management: Designed for future conservationists, includes fieldwork with agencies like the Environment Agency and Natural England.
• Pears Cumbria School of Medicine (from 2025): A new medical school in partnership with Imperial College London, offering early clinical exposure and rural health focus.

These programs emphasize employability, field experience, and personal development, preparing students for success in both local and international careers.

As you explore the range of programs offered, it’s equally important to understand the financial aspects of pursuing these courses. Let’s take a closer look at the tuition fees for various programs.

Despite rising living costs across the UK, Cumbria remains one of the more affordable study destinations. Total annual expenses are projected to increase by only 3-5% for 2025/26, due to inflation and accommodation price adjustments.

Let’s examine the tuition details for various programs to gain a clearer understanding of the financial commitment involved.

Note: Currency conversions are estimates based on the current exchange rate.

The cost of living is another significant aspect of budgeting for your education. Cumbria, with its affordable tuition fees and living costs, positions itself as one of the low-cost universities in the UK.

Understanding the cost of living in UK is crucial for international students planning to study at the University of Cumbria. With average annual costs ranging from £5,600 to £8,660 (INR 6.3L to INR 9.7L), students can plan their budgets accordingly.

These expenses, covering accommodation, food, study materials, transportation, utilities, and recreation, provide a clear picture of the financial commitment required to live and study in Cumbria.

Let’s examine the detailed breakdown of these costs more closely:

Note: Currency conversions are estimates based on the current exchange rate.

For a more accurate estimate of your financial commitment, you can use an expense calculator to assess both your tuition and living costs.

Now that you understand the living costs, let’s explore the scholarship opportunities that can help reduce the financial burden.

International tuition fees at the University of Cumbria vary by program and level of study. Undergraduate courses typically range from £14,900 to £16,900 (INR 16.8L to INR 19L) per year, covering popular fields such as Business Management and Foundation Degrees.

Below is a breakdown of tuition fees for key undergraduate and postgraduate programs at the University of Cumbria:

Note:

• Fees may vary depending on the specific course and specialization chosen.
• Currency conversions are approximate and based on the current exchange rate.

With a clear view of the fees, you can consider the university’s standing and reputation in the academic world. Here’s how the University of Cumbria performs in the rankings.

The University of Cumbria provides a range of internal and external scholarships, including fully funded scholarships for Indian students, to make education more affordable for domestic and international students in 2025.

UK undergraduates from low-income backgrounds can receive up to £1,000 (INR 1.1L) annually through the Cumbria Bursary, while international students can access up to £4,000 (INR 4.5L) with the Global Health and Wellbeing Scholarship.

Let's first look at the university's own scholarship offerings.

Internal Scholarships

The University of Cumbria offers internal scholarships and bursaries to support domestic and international students. For the 2025/26 academic year, eligible UK undergraduates from low-income households can receive the £1,000 (INR 1.1L) Cumbria Bursary, while PGCE alumni can benefit from up to £2,000 (INR 2.2L) in discounts.

With over 85 Cumbria Bursaries available, the university is committed to making higher education more affordable. Here are some internal scholarships available:

While internal scholarships are valuable, external scholarships can provide additional funding. Here’s what you need to know about these opportunities.

External Scholarships

International students at the University of Cumbria can access prestigious external scholarships like the fully funded Chevening Scholarship and the GREAT Scholarships, which offer up to £10,000 (INR 11.2L) in tuition waivers.

These scholarships ease financial burdens, enhance employability, and provide valuable global networking opportunities, attracting talented students worldwide. Some external scholarships include:

With scholarships in place, securing a placement is another crucial step for students. Let’s now look at the university's placement process.

The University of Cumbria has over 300 student-led clubs and societies. A close-knit community, diverse extracurricular activities, and an emphasis on personal growth characterize student life at the University of Cumbria.

With campuses in urban centers and scenic locations like the Lake District, students enjoy a mix of academic and outdoor adventure. The university's student union and various clubs provide ample opportunities for engagement beyond the classroom.  

• Clubs and Societies: A variety of student-led groups, including literature, film, gardening, mountaineering, and wildlife societies. Sports clubs such as badminton, football, hockey, netball, and paddling are available across campuses.
• Volunteering and Leadership: The University of Cumbria Students' Union (UCSU) offers volunteer opportunities in sports support and community engagement.
• Campus Facilities and Events: Access to various facilities, including sports venues and study areas, supports a balanced student life.
• Support Services: Comprehensive support services, including academic guidance, wellness programs, and orientation initiatives, ensure students are well-integrated and supported throughout their studies.

Cumbria offers many ways to make the most of your university experience, from clubs and volunteering to wellness support, helping students grow professionally and personally.

The university's alumni network can provide invaluable career support and inspiration. Let’s take a look at some notable alumni who have excelled after graduation.

Graduate Outcomes data from HESA places the University of Cumbria among the UK's most employment-focused institutions, ranking 1st in the North West and 12th nationally for graduate career outcomes.

This success is driven by Cumbria's strong industry ties and a curriculum designed to provide practical, career-ready skills that meet market demands.

• Full-time Employment Rate: 97.3% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months, with 86.1% securing professional-level roles.
• Average Starting Salary: Graduates earn around £42,613 (INR 48L) within a year, reflecting strong sector demand and skill alignment.
• Top Sectors: Most placements are in healthcare, education, business, and media, backed by real-world learning, placements, and employer partnerships.

Securing a placement often begins with paid internships in the UK, which connect students to employers and lead to full-time roles. Let’s look at the top companies hiring Cumbria graduates.

Top recruiters

Graduates from the University of Cumbria benefit from strong industry ties and a practical, career-focused education that prepares them for success across various sectors. With a graduate employment rate of 97.3%, the Cumbria graduates are highly valued by employers in healthcare, education, business, and media.

Some of the top recruiters include:

• NHS and Health & Social Care Providers: Employing a significant number of nursing, paramedic science, and healthcare graduates.
• BBC and Bauer Media Group: Offering roles in media, journalism, and creative industries.
• Babcock International Group: Recruiting graduates for engineering, project management, and technical roles.
• Specsavers and Well Pharmacy: Hiring graduates in healthcare, business, and customer service roles.
• AXA and Aon: Providing insurance, risk management, and finance opportunities.
• Environment Agency and St Andrew’s Healthcare: Employing graduates in environmental science, research, and healthcare leadership.

The University of Cumbria’s approach reflects key strengths of the education system in the UK, which emphasizes employability, industry links, and real-world learning.

When comparing options, it’s important to evaluate how the University of Cumbria stands against other top universities. Let’s compare it with the University of Brighton and the University of Bournemouth.

University of Cumbria vs University of Brighton vs University of Bournemouth: Which Is Better?

When comparing the University of Cumbria to Bournemouth and Brighton, Cumbria stands out with competitive tuition fees (£14,900 for UG, £16,900 for PG) and strong graduate outcomes. With an average salary of £42,613 (INR 48L), Cumbria offers excellent value.

Here’s a side-by-side table comparing the University of Cumbria with the University of Brighton and Bournemouth:

Beyond academics, the student experience plays a crucial role in shaping your university life. Let’s explore what student life is like at the University of Cumbria.

The University of Cumbria’s 70,000+ graduates span fields like media, arts, health, and public service. Notables include Helen Skelton, Charlie Hunnam, and Keith Tyson. The university annually honors standout graduates for professional excellence and community impact.

Here are some impactful names: