University of Sunderland: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

Students at the University of Sunderland are part of a lively global community with 3 campuses. With over 40% of the student body hailing from more than 100 countries, the university offers an international experience across continents.

The university is ranked 10th in Europe and 2nd in the UK for International Student Diversity. Each Sunderland, London, or Hong Kong campus offers unique programs and modern facilities, making the UK the best country to study abroad. 

The following section provides a detailed look at the distinctive features of each campus.

City Campus, Sunderland:

The campus is designed to provide students access to modern facilities, strong industry links, and hands-on learning experiences.

• CitySpace: A £12 million facility offering a gym, sports hall, climbing wall, and fitness studios.
• Living Labs: State-of-the-art laboratories providing practical learning experiences in health and sciences.
• Murray Health Building: Home to the School of Medicine and School of Psychology, featuring advanced facilities for healthcare students.
• Libraries: Murray Health and Pasteur Buildings house extensive collections in medicine, health, natural sciences, and social sciences.

Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's, Sunderland:

St Peter's campus offers a tranquil learning environment while providing strong academic and industry connections. The campus focuses on various disciplines, from business and law to engineering and media.

• David Goldman Technology Centre: Provides over 500 workstations, allowing students to engage in intensive technical and computing practices.
• David Puttnam Media Centre: Equipped with professional media tools, it offers students real-life media production and broadcasting experiences.
• National Glass Centre: A creative hub where students can engage in glass design and innovation projects with industry insights.
• Reg Vardy Centre: Offers real-world legal and business experiences, including mock trials and specialized business classrooms, encouraging skill development.

London Campus:

The University of Sunderland's London campus is in the heart of one of the world's leading business districts. It provides students access to professional networks, internships, and business, law, and health career opportunities.

• Lecture Theatres: Modern classrooms that encourage interactive learning and provide students with a conducive environment for academic excellence.
• Nursing Simulation Wards: Simulated healthcare environments where students can practice nursing and medical procedures before entering the field.
• Library: A vast collection of academic resources to support student research and study, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.
• Students' Union: Offers students a platform for involvement in extracurricular activities and peer support, things you need to survive at university.

Hong Kong Campus:

The Hong Kong campus allows students to experience both Eastern and Western business practices and gain exposure to Hong Kong's dynamic economy.

• Modern Classrooms: Well-equipped classrooms that provide a high-tech learning environment for business and engineering students.
• Student Library Area: Access to academic resources that enhance student learning, ensuring they stay updated with global industry trends.
• Student Common Areas: Social spaces for students to relax, collaborate, and build a sense of community, promoting a balanced lifestyle.

Following an overview of the campus, let's look at the University of Sunderland's standing across various rankings. 

The University of Sunderland is internationally recognized for its strong academic performance and student satisfaction. In the QS Stars World University Rankings, the university earned five stars for teaching, inclusiveness, employability, and facilities. 

It also ranks among the top 10 universities in Europe for International Student Diversity and 2nd in the UK for International Student Diversity, per the QS World University Rankings: Europe 2025.

Below is an overview of the university's rankings from prominent agencies for 2023–2025.

For Indian students considering studying abroad, the University of Sunderland's rankings provide valuable insights into its academic strengths, helping you assess how well it aligns with your field of study. 

Here's a closer look at its performance in key areas.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2024/25

In the 2024/25 rankings, the University of Sunderland has been recognized for its excellence in key programs. Hospitality and Leisure Management ranks 101 and 150 globally, while Social Sciences and Clinical & Health programs rank 801-1,000. 

Apart from these, courses like Nursing, Pharmacy, and Business Management rank well in the UK.

Here's an overview of how the university's courses are ranked globally:

Now, let's take a closer look at the University of Sunderland's admissions process for 2025.

The University of Sunderland assesses international applicants primarily on their academic performance and consistency. When necessary, the university may perform credential evaluations. 

You'll apply through UCAS for undergraduate programs, while postgraduate students can apply directly via the university's website. You can also receive scholarships of up to £3,000 (INR 3.5 L) off your tuition fees. 

You'll find all the key details on entry requirements, deadlines, and funding options to help you make an informed decision.

Admission Requirements

The University of Sunderland reviews Indian applicants by evaluating how their academic qualifications align with the education system in the UK. Bachelor's degrees must be awarded by institutions recognized by the UGC or NAAC. 

Here are the key admission criteria for prospective students at the University of Sunderland:

Academic Qualifications

The University of Sunderland requires Indian applicants to have a minimum of 60% in their Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) or Indian School Certificate (ISC) for undergraduate programs. A Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 55%-60% is expected for postgraduate courses. With proper merit, you can also look for universities offering 50% scholarships for international students.

The table below covers the specific test scores and competitive exam requirements for different programs.

Note: For program-specific requirements, visit the official University of Sunderland admissions page.

Let's move to the competitive exams that can improve your chances of admission to Sunderland University.

Competitive Exams

Building on the academic qualifications, specific programs at the University of Sunderland require competitive exams. For example, Medicine applicants must achieve a UCAT score of at least 2260, while GMAT or GRE may be needed for specific postgraduate courses. 

The table below has all the updated details for 2025 applicants.

Note: The required and competitive scores may differ depending on the number of applications received.

Next, you'll explore the language proficiency levels necessary for admission to the University of Sunderland.

Language Proficiency

To meet the University of Sunderland's language proficiency requirements, you must demonstrate your English skills through qualifications such as IELTS, with an undergraduate minimum score of 6.0 or 6.5 for postgraduate. 

Other accepted qualifications include PTE (minimum score of 59) and Cambridge English, with specific grade requirements. 

Here's a detailed breakdown of the required scores for each qualification.

Note: Competitive scores could vary based on the application volume, so contact the University of Sunderland directly.

Next, you'll learn about the visa requirements for international students planning to study at Sunderland.

Visa Requirements

After meeting the academic and language proficiency requirements, international students can apply for a student visa to study at the University of Sunderland. A Student Visa for the UK costs £363 (INR 42K), with additional requirements like proof of financial support.

Check the process and requirements below.

Once the visa process is completed, staying on top of application deadlines is essential. Now, let's look at the key deadlines and intakes for the University of Sunderland.

UK universities typically offer three intakes: Autumn Intake (September/October), Spring Intake (January/February), and Summer Intake (May/June). Key application deadlines include January 15th (each year) for UCAS (Undergraduate), with some postgraduate courses offering later deadlines in October-November for Spring and March-April for Summer intake. 

Below are the important dates for the University of Sunderland's application process for the 2025 academic year:

Note: For the most accurate and program-specific information, it's recommended to visit the official University of Sunderland admissions website or contact the admissions office directly.

After discussing the admissions procedure, let us look at the programs available at the University of Sunderland.

The University of Sunderland offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs with higher satisfaction and employability rate. Its mechanical engineering programs boast a high student satisfaction rate of 94%, while its Medicine program is recognized for its strong employability rate, with 90% of graduates securing employment within six months of completing their degree.

The table below showcases the graduate and undergraduate programs offered by the University of Sunderland.

Having reviewed the available programs, let's now examine the program fees to assist you in planning your budget efficiently.

The University of Sunderland offers competitive tuition fees, with undergraduate programs costing £16,500 per year (INR 19.3 L). Graduate tuition ranges from £17,000 to £21,000 (INR 19.8 L - 24.5 L) per year, depending on the program.  

Additionally, international students must pay a non-refundable £3,500 (INR 41K) deposit before receiving their CAS letter.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated tuition, housing, and other expenses to help you plan your budget effectively.

Note: The exchange rates from GBP to INR are subject to the latest market changes

In addition to the tuition and fees set by the university, other essential expenses such as transportation, study materials, and daily living costs also factor into the total cost of living in the UK. 

Sunderland is one of the most affordable cities in the UK for students. According to Save the Student, the average student living costs in the north-east are around £954 per month (INR 1.1 L), compared to the national average of £1,078 (INR 1.25 L).

Students can also apply for part-time jobs in the UK to cover their costs while studying at the University of Sunderland.

Here's a closer look at the typical monthly expenses you can expect:

Note: These numbers are approximate and may fluctuate depending on personal circumstances and lifestyle preferences.

While studying at the University of Sunderland, you can apply for the top scholarships for Indian students to help cover tuition and common living expenses.

International students are automatically eligible for study abroad scholarships, including the Global Leaders Scholarship, which provides up to £5,000 (INR 5.8 L) off tuition fees. The university also offers scholarships such as the International Scholarship (£1,400/ INR 1.6L reduction for undergraduates) to make studying more affordable. 

First, explore the international scholarships the University of Sunderland's internal committees offer.

Internal Scholarships at the University of Sunderland

The University of Sunderland offers a range of internal scholarships to support students, such as the Alumni Loyalty Scheme, which provides a 20% fee reduction for returning postgraduate students. Additionally, the Tuk-Tam Scholarship offers up to £9,000 (INR 10.5 L) towards tuition fees for eligible Bulgarian students pursuing a Master's course. 

Check the table below to apply accordingly.

Note: Certain courses are excluded from the scholarship programs, so always check with the University of Sunderland officials.

Apart from these internal scholarships, you can also apply for fully funded scholarships in the UK from private organizations or government bodies.

External Scholarships at the University of Sunderland

The University of Sunderland offers prestigious external scholarships, such as the Chevening Scholarship, which provides full funding for tuition and living expenses, and the Commonwealth Scholarship, which supports students from Commonwealth countries with additional academic development benefits. 

Below is a table detailing these and other external funding opportunities for international students.

Note: Apart from these, you can also look for Indian government scholarships to study in the UK.

Placement outcomes reflect a student's academic success and employers' confidence in their skills. Let's explore the placement statistics at the University of Sunderland in more detail.

77% of Sunderland graduates stay in the North East, supporting the local economy, especially in healthcare. The University's placement year program enhances this impact with an accredited work experience opportunity that often becomes the third year of a four-year degree. 

Students work full-time with an industry partner for at least 40 weeks, gaining valuable hands-on experience. 

Below is an overview of the available placements and key details.

Now, let's discuss the top recruiters who usually hire from the University of Sunderland.

Top Recruiters at the University of Sunderland

The university collaborates with over 10,000 employers to advertise vacancies, organize recruitment events, and facilitate employer-student interactions. The Employability and Enterprise Hub offers CV workshops, interview preparation, and networking opportunities to bridge the gap between academic study and professional employment.

Here are some of the top recruiters at the University of Sunderland and the courses they typically recruit from:

• Sunderland City Council: Recruits graduates from Public Administration, Social Work, and Law programs for roles in local government, community development, and policy planning.
• NHS Trusts: Primarily hires students from Nursing, Health Sciences, and Social Work courses for clinical, healthcare administration, and community health positions.
• Vodafone: Seeks candidates from Business, Marketing, and Information Technology courses for positions in sales, marketing, business analysis, and customer service management.
• Siemens: Focuses on graduates from Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering courses for roles in automation, product design, and engineering management.
• Barclays: Hires students from Finance, Business Administration, and Economics programs for roles in banking, financial services, and management.
• Accenture: Recruits students from IT, Business, and Computer Science courses for positions in consultancy, software development, and data analysis.
• The Sage Group: Looks for graduates from Computer Science, Business, and IT courses for roles in software development, product management, and IT consultancy.
• PwC: Seeks students from Accounting, Finance, and Business courses for positions in auditing, tax, advisory services, and management consulting.
• Tesco: Recruits graduates from Business, Marketing, Logistics and shipping programs for management roles in retail operations, supply chain, and marketing.
• Amazon: Focuses on students from Engineering, Computer Science, and Business courses for positions in logistics, software development, and supply chain management.

In addition to these opportunities, students can access job and internship placements through the University of Sunderland's Graduate Internship Scheme.

Now, explore the student life at the University of Sunderland, where the campus is filled with engaging experiences at every turn!

Student life at the University of Sunderland combines academic rigor with a vibrant campus community. The Sunderland Students' Union (SU) is at the heart of this, offering over 50 societies, multiple representation opportunities, and organizing diverse events that enhance student engagement so that you can avoid the common study abroad mistakes.

Let's look closer at what makes student life at Sunderland so unique.

Academic and Study Facilities

The university boasts state-of-the-art academic facilities, including:

• CitySpace: A £12 million sports and leisure facility featuring a fitness suite, sports hall, and climbing wall.
• Murray Library: Offers extensive support to get job in abroad, resources, and study spaces for students
• David Goldman Informatics Centre: Houses computing and technology resources for students in related disciplines.

Accommodation Options

The University provides various on-campus housing options, including:

• Clanny House: Located near Sunderland Royal Hospital, it offers convenient access to healthcare facilities.
• Scotia Quay and Panns Bank: Situated across the River Wear from St Peter's Campus, these residences are close to the university's main academic buildings.
• The Forge U-Student Village is a modern accommodation option with amenities for student comfort.

City Life in Sunderland

Sunderland offers a blend of city and seaside living, providing students with:

• Cultural Venues: The Fire Station and Empire Theatre host various performances, from concerts to theatre productions, offering students access to live entertainment.
• Music Scene: Recognized as a Music City, Sunderland is part of the global Music Cities Network, fostering a rich music culture with venues like The Bunker and The Independent supporting local and international artists.
• Outdoor Activities: With its coastline and parks, including Roker Beach and Mowbray Park, Sunderland offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation, jogging, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

All in all, the University of Sunderland offers almost everything to make the most of your university experience.

The alumni of the University of Sunderland have made significant contributions across multiple industries. Let’s explore some of their outstanding accomplishments!

Since its establishment as a Technical College in 1901, the University of Sunderland has graduated over 160,000 students, with over 1,200 alumni currently based in India. 

The university has produced influential figures across diverse fields, including Olympic silver medalist Steve Cram, acclaimed ballroom dancer Shirley Ballas, and renowned film director Tony Scott (known for Top Gun and Man on Fire). These achievements underscore the university's significant contribution to global talent and innovation.

Below, you can see some of these notable alumni and their contributions.

To make well-informed decisions, comparing the University of Sunderland's performance against other institutions is essential. Let's take a deeper look at how it measures up.

The University of Sunderland has an acceptance rate of 64% and undergraduate tuition fees of £16,500 (INR 19.3 L) per year, making it a cost-effective choice. Northumbria University has an acceptance rate of 82% and higher costs, while the University of Roehampton's acceptance rate is 55%, with similar fees. 

Below is a comparison of key factors, such as acceptance rates and tuition fees, to help you make an informed decision.

The University of Sunderland offers strong education across UK and Hong Kong campuses, with practical opportunities, diverse students, modern facilities, and career support, focusing on sustainability and research.

The University of Sunderland in Sunderland, UK has an average acceptance rate of around 64%, making admission somewhat challenging. International students are considered on a case-by-case basis and may have additional requirements depending on their program. 

The importance of financial planning is crucial for students studying abroad, making it essential for international students at the University of Sunderland to understand the tuition fee structure. 

Being aware of the program fees enables better expense management. The University of Sunderland offers competitive tuition rates and a range of scholarships for Indian students.

Below is an overview of the estimated annual tuition fees for various programs:

Note: Please check with the University of Sunderland's information center for the latest tuition fees and financial aid options.

Following a basic overview of the programs and courses, let's look at the general cost of studying at the University of Sunderland.