THE UNIVERSITY OF ROEHAMPTON
The University of Roehampton offers a unique London university experience — combining a close-knit, campus community with the energy and opportunities of one of the world’s most exciting cities. Set on a beautiful green campus in southwest London, Roehampton is known for high-quality teaching, small class sizes, and strong academic support, helping students feel known, supported, and confident from day one. With career-focused degrees, global study opportunities, and excellent links to industry, Roehampton prepares students not just to graduate, but to thrive in their future careers.
STUDY AT UNIVERSITY OF ROEHAMPTON
Studying at the University of Roehampton means joining a supportive, inclusive and globally diverse academic community on London’s most beautiful green campus. Located in southwest London, Roehampton offers a rare combination of a close-knit campus environment with easy access to the cultural, creative and professional opportunities of a world-class city. Teaching is highly student-focused, with smaller class sizes that allow for personalised support and meaningful engagement with academics who are active researchers, industry professionals and practitioners. Learning is practical and career-focused, encouraging critical thinking, collaboration and real-world application, while employability, placements and volunteering opportunities are embedded throughout the student experience. Roehampton is known for strengths across the humanities, social sciences, education, psychology and the creative and performing arts, and places strong emphasis on wellbeing and sustainability, supported by its expansive green campus and responsible environmental initiatives. Above all, Roehampton fosters a strong sense of belonging, ensuring students are known as individuals, supported academically and personally, and empowered to thrive during their studies and beyond.
HISTORY OF UNIVERSITY OF ROEHAMPTON
The University of Roehampton has a rich academic heritage dating back to the 19th century, rooted in four historic teacher training colleges: Whitelands College (founded in 1841), Digby Stuart College (1874), Froebel College (1892) and Southlands College (1872). These institutions were pioneers in education and social reform, particularly in widening access to learning and advancing progressive approaches to teaching. United by a shared campus in southwest London, they came together as the Roehampton Institute of Higher Education in 1975, later gaining full university status as the University of Roehampton in 2004. Today, Roehampton’s collegiate heritage continues to shape its identity, combining long-standing academic tradition with a modern, inclusive and student-focused approach to higher education.
SPECIALIST AREAS AT UNIVERSITY OF ROEHAMPTON
The University of Roehampton is a research‑active London institution known for its strengths in education, psychology, dance, creative industries, humanities and social sciences. Its research centres, including the Centre for Educational Research, the Centre for Research in Psychological Wellbeing and the Centre for Society, Culture and Social Change, focus on major themes such as social justice, health and wellbeing, creative societies and environmental sustainability. Roehampton is recognised as one of the top modern universities in the UK for research quality, with work that influences national policy and supports communities locally and globally.
The university encourages interdisciplinary study through collaborative research centres, flexible degree structures and opportunities to combine subjects or take elective modules across different schools. Courses are designed to be adaptable, offering placements, joint honours options and pathways that allow students to tailor their learning to their interests. Roehampton’s distinctive identity comes from its commitment to social impact, its strong creative and wellbeing‑focused disciplines and its supportive, community‑oriented campus environment.
LIFE ON CAMPUS
The University of Roehampton has a single, beautifully self‑contained 54‑acre parkland campus in southwest London, offering a rare blend of green open space and easy access to the city. Set around historic Georgian buildings like Grove House alongside modern facilities such as the Sir David Bell Building and the world‑class library, the campus combines traditional architecture with contemporary learning spaces, specialist labs and new technology hubs. Students will find cafés, diners, a bar, social spaces, a campus shop, an Esports arena, a gym, a library, and plenty of study and relaxation areas across the four colleges. While there isn’t a train station directly on campus, Barnes Station is close by and frequent buses stop right outside, making travel into central London quick and convenient. With lakes, lawns, woodland walks and outdoor social areas, students spend their spare time relaxing on the grounds, meeting friends in cafés, joining sports and societies, or exploring nearby Putney and Hammersmith. Roehampton offers a friendly, village‑like environment with all the essentials in one place, while still being minutes from one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
STUDENT SUPPORT AT UNIVERSITY OF ROEHAMPTON
The University of Roehampton offers a wide range of student support designed to help students settle in, succeed academically, and feel at home while studying in the UK. The main support hub is The Nest, a dedicated team of Student Life Experts who are available to answer questions, give advice, and simply talk things through when students need support. Students can get help with practical matters such as budgeting, housing issues, navigating life in London, and understanding university processes. There is also access to counselling and wellbeing services, academic skills support, disability and learning support, and guidance on study techniques, time management, and writing skills. For students who need help with English, Roehampton provides language support and resources to build confidence in academic communication.
International students receive additional tailored support, including guidance on preparing to move to the UK, what to pack, how to arrange accommodation, and how to adapt to life in London. The Nest team is available both online and in person once students arrive, helping with questions about visas, cultural adjustment, opening a bank account, finding part‑time work, and understanding UK academic expectations. Roehampton also has a large international community, with students from more than 140 countries, which helps new students feel welcomed and supported from the start.
Roehampton offers a variety of financial support and scholarships for international students, with many of their international students offered some sort of scholarship. The best way to get up‑to‑date information is to contact Across the Pond, who can guide students through the available funding options.
UNIVERSITY OF ROEHAMPTON FACILITIES
The University of Roehampton offers a wide range of modern, high‑tech facilities designed to give students hands‑on experience and access to professional‑level equipment. Teaching takes place in a mix of historic buildings and newly developed spaces, including the Sustainable Engineering and Technology Building, which provides flexible studio spaces, a digital lab, an environmental lab, a CAD lab and an engineering and fabrication workshop. Students also have access to specialist labs for life sciences, psychology and biomedical research, including cell‑culture facilities, imaging suites and advanced analytical equipment such as a liquid chromatography mass spectrometer. Creative students benefit from world‑class media, performance and exhibition spaces, as well as extensive archives and collections for dance, literature and religious studies.
Across campus, students can study or revise in a variety of environments, from the world‑class library with computer suites and quiet study zones to social learning spaces, cafés and college common rooms. Roehampton also offers an Esports Arena, specialist nutrition and health facilities, and dedicated labs for psychology and life sciences, giving students practical experience that goes far beyond traditional classroom learning.
SPORTS AND SOCIETIES AT UNIVERSITY OF ROEHAMPTON
The Roehampton Students’ Union (RSU) is the heart of student life on campus, run by students for students. It organises everything from welcome events and themed parties to UK day trips, cultural celebrations, workshops and volunteering opportunities. The RSU also represents student voices within the university and offers leadership roles for those who want to get involved. Alongside this, Roehampton has a wide range of student societies — groups built around shared interests such as culture, faith, academics, gaming, dance or LGBTQ+ life. Students can join as many as they like or even start their own, making societies one of the easiest ways to make friends, explore hobbies and feel part of the community.
Sport is another major part of life at Roehampton, with opportunities for everyone from beginners to competitive athletes. Students can join social sport sessions, fitness classes or one of the many competitive teams that play in BUCS, the national university sports league, which involves travelling to other universities for matches and tournaments. Popular sports include football, basketball, netball, volleyball, cheerleading and badminton, supported by on‑campus facilities such as the on campus gym, dance studios, fitness suites and outdoor spaces. Whether students want to compete, stay active or simply try something new, Roehampton’s sports clubs and facilities offer a welcoming and energetic environment.
ACCOMMODATION AT UNIVERSITY OF ROEHAMPTON
The University of Roehampton offers a variety of on‑campus accommodation options, all located within its green, parkland campus just a short walk from teaching spaces, the library, cafés and social areas. Students can choose from different room types, including basic, standard, enhanced and ensuite options, with all accommodation being self‑catered. Shared kitchens are fully equipped for cooking, and students can choose between shared bathrooms, semi‑ensuite or private ensuite rooms depending on their preferences and budget. Rooms typically include essentials such as a bed, desk, chair and wardrobe, and most flats house between six and ten students, each with their own private bedroom and shared kitchen/living space. Laundry facilities are available on site, and accommodation costs generally include Wi‑Fi and utility bills, with 24‑hour campus security providing a safe living environment.
All new undergraduate, postgraduate and continuing students can apply for university accommodation, and all international students are guaranteed a room as long as they meet the application deadline set each year. Students who prefer to live off campus can also rent privately in nearby areas such as Roehampton Village, Putney or Barnes. Overall, Roehampton’s accommodation offers a supportive, community‑focused living experience that is especially helpful for international students who may be experiencing campus housing for the first time.
INTERNATIONAL FOCUS
The University of Roehampton has a vibrant and diverse international community, with students joining from over 140 countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas. This mix creates a welcoming, global atmosphere where students quickly find others who share similar experiences of studying abroad. Many international students say they appreciate the supportive environment, the friendly campus feel and the chance to experience life in London while still being part of a close‑knit community. Roehampton’s approach to internationalisation is centred on inclusion, cultural exchange and global perspectives in teaching. The university provides tailored support for international students, celebrates cultural diversity through events and societies, and integrates global themes into academic programmes. This ensures that students not only feel at home but also gain the skills and outlook needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS
The University of Roehampton takes a very practical, career‑focused approach to industry engagement, ensuring students gain real experience alongside their academic studies. Many courses include work placements, internships or live projects with employers, giving students the chance to apply their skills in real workplaces. The university regularly invites guest lecturers from sectors such as education, psychology, business, media, the arts and the health sciences, allowing students to learn directly from active professionals. Throughout the year, Roehampton hosts networking events, employer fairs, skills workshops and industry panels, helping students build connections and understand the expectations of their chosen field. Because Roehampton has partnerships not only across the UK but also with organisations abroad, students benefit from a global outlook and opportunities that extend beyond London. This combination of hands‑on experience, professional insight and international links helps students graduate with both confidence and industry‑ready skills.
STUDY ABROAD OPPORTUNITIES AND INTERNSHIPS
Roehampton encourages students to gain international experience through a wide range of study abroad programmes, summer schools and global internships. With partner universities in destinations such as the United States, Australia, Canada, China, South America and across Europe, students can spend a semester or full year abroad while earning academic credit and paying no additional tuition fees on exchange. Those who prefer shorter experiences can join summer programmes or take part in international projects. Alongside this, many Roehampton degrees include work placements, internships or real‑world industry projects, giving students practical experience that strengthens their CV and improves employability. These global opportunities — whether through studying abroad or gaining hands‑on work experience — help students build confidence, develop intercultural skills and stand out in a competitive job market.
EMPLOYABILITY AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
The University of Roehampton places a strong emphasis on employability, and students benefit from dedicated, personalised career support throughout their studies. The Student Futures team offers one‑to‑one guidance, CV and application reviews, interview preparation, and tailored advice for students exploring different career paths. They also run regular career workshops, employer events, and job fairs, giving students the chance to meet recruiters and learn directly from industry professionals. Roehampton uses Handshake, a major UK careers platform, to connect students with hundreds of internships, placements and graduate roles across the country. Support continues after graduation through GradConnect, which provides mentoring from experienced professionals, exclusive workshops and helps with transitioning into work or postgraduate study. Roehampton graduates go on to careers in education, business, psychology, media, the arts, health, public service and many other sectors. For many international students, having access to a full careers centre is a new experience, and Roehampton’s approach ensures they receive practical, hands‑on support to build confidence, gain experience and successfully launch their careers.
STUDY IN LONDON
The University of Roehampton is located in leafy southwest London, set between the neighbourhoods of Putney, Wimbledon, Richmond and Barnes. This gives students the best of both worlds: a peaceful, green campus environment with lakes, woodland and historic Georgian buildings, while being only a short bus, train or tube ride from central London’s culture and nightlife. The local area is known for its relaxed, village‑like feel, with plenty of cafés, riverside walks, independent shops and green spaces. Students love visiting Richmond Park, the largest Royal Park in London, where you can walk, cycle or spot wild deer. Putney is another favourite, offering riverside pubs, bars, restaurants and access to the Thames Path. The area is safe, multicultural, and popular with young professionals, families, and students alike.
Southwest London offers endless things to do — from world‑class sport at Wimbledon, to the botanical beauty of Kew Gardens, to the shops and nightlife of Putney and Clapham Junction. Students can easily explore museums, theatres, markets and music venues across London, with excellent transport links: frequent buses stop right outside campus, and Barnes Station provides fast trains to Clapham Junction, Vauxhall and London Waterloo. The weather is mild by UK standards, and the area’s mix of parks, riverside paths and urban amenities makes it ideal for outdoor activities and city exploration. With London’s airports and rail connections close by, students also have easy access to the rest of the UK and Europe. Overall, Roehampton’s location offers a unique blend of calm, green surroundings and the excitement of one of the world’s most dynamic cities — a perfect setting for both study and student life.
WHY STUDY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ROEHAMPTON
Students are drawn to the University of Roehampton for a whole mix of reasons that make it feel both welcoming and inspiring. Many love the beautiful green campus in southwest London, which offers lakes, gardens and historic buildings while still being close to the energy of central London. The university’s diverse and friendly community, with students from more than 140 countries, helps international students feel at home quickly. Roehampton’s strong focus on student support, from wellbeing services to academic guidance, gives students confidence as they settle into university life. The practical, career‑focused approach — including placements, industry links, global opportunities and personalised careers support — helps students feel prepared for life after graduation. Add to that, the lively Students’ Union, a huge range of societies and sports, modern facilities and a supportive, community‑focused atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why Roehampton becomes a place students genuinely enjoy being part of.