University of Salford

The origin of the University of Salford can be traced back to 1896 with the establishment of the Royal Technical Institute, Salford which was opened by the Duke and Duchess of York. In 1956 the institute became a college of advanced technology and was named the Royal College of Advanced Technology. It achieved university status in 1967 when it received the Royal Charter from Queen Elizabeth II and came to be known as the University of Salford. The University of Salford has three campuses located in Peel Park, Frederick Road and MediaCityUK, each of which is connected by excellent transport links. The Clifford Whitworth Library located on campus was inaugurated by Prince Philip contains a collection of printed and digital resources which can be used by students and staff for learning and research, it is open 24x7. The University campus also has the Salford Museum and Art Gallery which is the first free public library in England.

The University of Salford was originally organised into seven academic schools however, after a series of merges it is now divided into four schools:

• School of Arts, Media and Creative Technology
• School of Health and Society
• School of Science, Engineering and Environment
• Salford Business School.

Each academic school offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, doctorate, distance-learning and certificate programmes for students to pursue in areas like law, zoology, management, business, psychology and many more. The University also has language centres.

There are about 20,000 students enrolled in the University that includes international students coming from over 130 different countries. A number of facilities are offered to international students especially those who are new to the UK, English language programmes are also organised to help international students improve their command of the language.

• The University of Salford ranked 100th in the Times University Guide and 103rd in the Guardian University Guide, 2021.
• 50% of the research conducted at the University was found to be ‘internationally excellent by the Research Excellence Framework.
• The University of Salford offers internationally accredited courses to its students and also gives them the opportunity to learn a new language and also to study in a foreign university for a year.
• Salford is located next to Manchester and is one of the best cities in the UK thus giving students the chance to explore several places and be exposed to a new culture.
• Besides providing an excellent education, the University also instills in its students the necessary skills and requirements that employers look for.

At the University of Salford, students are provided the education and knowledge required to increase their employability and to prepare them for life after graduation. Services provided include help finding part-time jobs, creating a perfect CV, and finding volunteering opportunities. The Careers and Enterprise team is the go-to place for students who need guidance to reach their end goal and find tips to start their own business. Salford offers ‘sandwich’ degrees, which allows students to work and study with companies in order to gain work experience. Masterclasses, career fairs, workshops, and other such events are organized by the University to introduce students to potential employers. 94% of graduates from the University of Salford are in work or further study six months after graduation.

Some notable alumni of the University include:

• Robert Powell (English actor)
• Alok Sharma (Former Minister of State for Employment)
• Mohammad Rahif Hakmi (Chairman of Armada Group)
• B.N. Suresh (Indian aerospace scientist)
• Robert Swire (Former Chief Physiotherapist for Manchester United)

Student services:

The University of Salford provides support to students on issues they might face during their time in the University with the aim of helping them reach the best of their ability. It provides fair and equal access to all students through their inclusive and accessible teaching practices. Students also have access to support regarding finance, scholarships and budget management.

Accommodation:

Salford provides accommodation facilities for its students with a number of options to choose from, the University’s Peel Park Quarter was voted the second-best hall of residence in the UK. There are two accommodation villages- Peel Park Quarter and John Lester and Eddie Colman Courts, the former is available for first-year students whereas the latter is only available for returning or postgraduate students. The student accommodation provides opportunities for students to meet new people and to have a wonderful university experience.

Medical services:

There is an on-campus GP at the University of Salford Health Centre so that students and staff can access medical treatment as soon as possible. An ambulance service is available in case of a life-threatening injury or condition. Wellbeing and Counselling services are also provided for students facing any kind of mental problems that might affect their wellbeing.

Sports facilities:

The University of Salford’s Sports Centre located on campus has fitness rooms, pool, dance studios, squash courts, grass pitches and several other facilities for the students, staff, alumni and community members to use. The university also has a number of sports clubs which students can be part of.

Clubs and Societies:

At the University of Salford, there are over 50 student-led societies covering aspects like academics, politics, faith, etc. which students can join based on their interests, students also have the freedom to create their own society. Being part of such groups gives them the chance to make new friends, learn some new skills and enjoy their time in the University.