Whether you’ve already checked us out at an Open Day and want to know more, or have never even heard of Sunderland, we're sure there's a few things about the city and the University that you don't know. Here's ten great reasons to choose Sunderland:
Ranked within the top 50 UK universities
We’re pleased to say that the University of Sunderland has been placed within the top 50 UK universities by the Guardian University Guide 2024. This achievement recognises our immense efforts towards providing teaching excellence, being professions facing and employability-focused. At the heart of everything we do here is the drive to help our students reach their potential and get where they want to be after graduating. This commitment has also been reflected by our standing as the best university in the north-east for teaching quality according to the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023.
“University ‘league tables’ are only one measure of the work done at the University of Sunderland. However, such a dramatic rise in the Guardian University Guide is a notable moment for us. So, as always, I pay tribute to students and staff for all their hard work which we see, and celebrate, day in and day out.”
Sir David Bell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Sunderland
Investment in facilities
We’re always investing in new facilities, like our Living Lab and Helen McArdle House which features mock hospital wards, a pharmacy dispensary, training ambulance and a hi-fidelity simulation suite. We’ve also invested over £1m in engineering and computer science facilities, including a dedicated mechanical lab and a fluid lab and a 3D interactive igloo space. Acclaimed independent production company Fulwell 73 – makers of Netflix show ‘Sunderland ‘Til I Die’ – has even launched a new regional office in our David Puttnam Media Centre.
Great transport links
Getting between campuses couldn’t be simpler. The Connect Bus service and the Campus Circular service are both free for students with a valid student card. There is also a metro stop situated on our City Campus. If you prefer getting fresh air when travelling, we also have a cycling hub and on foot it will take around 20 minutes to get between the two campuses. You’re never too far from where you need to be.
An inclusive university
Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion was celebrated when we were named University of the Year for Social Inclusion (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021). No matter your background or circumstances, we will help you to achieve your potential.
Convenient location
Sunderland is a vibrant city that benefits from a metropolitan city centre and coastal scenery. Roker beach is a short stroll from Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter’s where you can treat yourself to ice cream and fish and chips. Sunderland is also only 30 minutes away from Newcastle Upon Tyne, another lively city, and we are in easy reach of Gateshead and Durham.
Opportunities to engage in cultural experiences
While in Sunderland, there are always opportunities to engage with cultural activities. You can catch a show at the Empire Theatre, listen to some live music at at an eclectic mix of clubs and bars or learn something new at one of the many museums. The Stadium of Light has hosted some of the world’s biggest artists such as Beyonce, Foo Fighters, Rihanna, Ed Sheeran and Elton John.
Access to sport
Here in Sunderland, we love sport. We have over 50 sports clubs and societies and have excellent facilities such as a 70 station fitness suite and an indoor climbing wall. If you are more of a spectator, the Stadium of Light is home to Sunderland AFC, a football club that has a dedicated fanbase.
Famously low cost of living
The north-east is famous for low living costs. Sunderland is the third most affordable city in the UK according to a 2021 ‘Graduate salaries in the UK’ survey conducted by Prospects Luminate. With rent being as low as £77.79 a week and the average price of a pint costing just £3.30, we are accessible for all budgets.
A welcoming community
Coming to Sunderland means you will be joining a community of both home students and international students. There are 20,000 University of Sunderland students spread across our campuses in Sunderland, Hong Kong, and London. 156 nationalities are represented within our student body. And whether you are a mature student or a school leaver, you are sure to fit in with our community.
Enhanced employment prospects
Our huge range of extracurricular activities coupled with our incredible courses will leave your CV bursting at the seams. The Employability and Enterprise Hub offers careers fairs, appointments with career advisors, and help with sourcing placements, internships, and jobs. Our Enterprise Place and Digital Incubator also provide dedicated support, workshops and funding opportunities for students and graduates looking to set up a business or embark on a freelance career.
So there you have it, ten reasons to choose Sunderland. If you're still not convinced, there are plenty more.
If you want to know more about the University of Sunderland, read more about the huge range of courses we offer, visit our Virtual Open Day, or check us out on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok and YouTube.
Published: 8 October 2021