University of Derby

University of Derby

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Located in the heart of England, we offer industry-relevant, research-informed courses and strong industry links which create unrivalled career opportunities. We are Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, making us one of the top universities in the country for outstanding teaching quality. Ranked 4th for employability, 5th for course quality and 15th overall in the Uni Compare Annual Student Review Rankings 2025, we are focused on preparing students for a successful future.

Top reasons to study here

  • A strong focus on applied teaching and learning, underpinned by real-world experiences and industry connections
  • Multi-million-pound investments into the most advanced equipment, facilities, and technologies to elevate the student learning experience.
  • A sustainability mission set to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill, increase solar energy, and promote biodiversity on campus.

Short Courses

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History

Derby as a region is renowned for its heritage of innovation and creativity and is the home to leading global brands such as Rolls-Royce, Alstom and Toyota. Strong industry links and state-of-the-art facilities mean that you will build the practical and transferable skills you need to succeed, whatever path you choose.

Research

Through our ground-breaking research, we are combatting the most prevalent challenges in our society and shaping a better future, today. This research inspires our curriculum and creates relevant, up-to-date modules containing real-world learnings which our students can apply to their future workplace.

Our academic research themes cover areas of critical importance for the future and include:

  • Biomedical and clinical science
  • Creative and cultural industries
  • Data science
  • Business, economic and social policy
  • Public services
  • Zero carbon

Career

At Derby, we believe in powering the next generation of thought leaders. This means that you don’t just gain the academic qualifications for a job, you acquire the skills, resilience, and experiences for a meaningful and impactful career.  

Career experts are there to guide, support and advise. Whether you need help with placement applications, enhancing your CV or finding work experience, the University will be by your side every step of the way, making sure you’re on the path to success.

The outstanding Careers teams provide an accredited service and are proud to confirm that 96% of our UK graduates are in employment or further study (HESA Graduate Outcomes 20/21).

University Ranking

World University Rankings by Times Higher Education
2025
601
2024
601
2023
601
World University Rankings is a vital resource that provides the definitive list of the world's best universities.
QS World University Rankings by TopUniversities
2025
1001
2024
1001
2023
1001
QS World University Rankings is one of the top international rankings measuring the popularity and performance of universities all over the world.
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report
2025
-
2024
1414 -25
2023
1389
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report presents all the top universities from the U.S. and 60 other countries around the world.

Student services

Moving to university is a new and exciting chapter in your life, but it can also feel like a big and sometimes scary step – especially if this is your first time living away from home. We have a team of friendly, caring and supportive staff who are trained to help with specific concerns around your course or wellbeing or simply to provide that little piece of reassurance you may need.

We’re here for you and are always on hand to help make your university experience the best it can possibly be. 

Housing services

The University has been awarded Best University Housing for three years running and Best Environmental Management for two years running, as voted for by students in the Global Student Living Awards 2024. The University’s undergraduate halls are all conveniently located close to the city centre and to the teaching spaces that are spread across Derby, making it the perfect place to begin your student journey. All accommodation at the University of Derby is inclusive of bills, meaning you do not need to worry about hidden extra costs. At the University of Derby, student wellbeing is the top priority, and all accommodation is installed with CCTV and an intercom entry system. 

Library services

The University provides access to library resources (print and online), information technology and study space to support students in their studies. Help and advice is available throughout the year from friendly and knowledgeable staff. There are computers and printers available on every floor of the Library.

ICT services

There are computers available to students within the Library and laptops that can be borrowed. Students also have access to the Microsoft suite to support their university work. IT services are available to students that have any queries about this.

Medical services

The University of Derby has its own on-site doctor’s surgery at Kedleston Road.

Campus life

The University of Derby is spread across several teaching and learning sites, located in or near the city centre. Derby is a relatively small city which means that all sites are conveniently within walking distance from the halls of residence and the city centre. For those rainy days, you can hop on one of our handy Unibuses which will get you from A to B.

Our main site is at Kedleston Road and features an outstanding Sports Centre, a four-storey library, a Multi-faith Centre and the Union of Students. You’ll also find lots of popular eateries including Starbucks and Subway.

The University of Derby also has a site in Chesterfield which is recognised as a Centre of Excellence for Health and Social Care. 

Sports facilities

The University of Derby Sports Centre is open to students, staff and the wider community all year round. Students can join as a member from as little as £99 for the year, but many of the activities and facilities are also available on a pay-as-you-go basis. There is a superb fitness suite and a range of weekly classes on offer and social sport activities to enjoy, keeping students healthy and well. Other top quality facilities include: squash courts, double-sized sports hall, indoor climbing wall, external 3G pitches and two outdoor tennis courts. 

Student clubs

Societies are run by students, for students, and are a great way for you to meet like-minded people, learn a new skill or try out a new hobby. You’ll find everything from Warhammer to Medieval Re-enactment, Afro Caribbean to Ballroom and Latin Dance – and if there’s not something on our societies list that catches your eye, you’ll have the freedom and support to set up your own society.

Each society offers organised activities to enhance your social experience, including bar crawls, quizzes and day trips.

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Derby, England, United Kingdom

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