Student life at Bangor University

Bangor University

By Mehedi Hasan

The campus of Bangor University is built between the mountains and the sea in beautiful North Wales, England. The place offers a student life experience that is distinguishable and rewarding for students from all around the globe.

Bangor is all about great teaching, award-winning accommodation, and a stunning location setting. Skip the options of choosing those overcrowded city-based office-like campuses, and let's dive in and find out what makes Bangor a unique place to pursue higher degrees.


Location, history and landmarks

The city of Bangor is built on the Menai Strait, connecting the Isle of Anglesey with two land bridges known as the Menai Bridge and Britannia Bridge in Gwynedd. On one side of the city there are the majestic Snowdonia peaks and sandy beaches of the Irish Sea on the other side. It is a cathedral city that mixes the artistry of historic architecture, accommodating huge student crowds.

The compact nature of the city makes it convenient to travel around. Everything a student needs is within walking distance or a short bus ride away. Moreover, being in close proximity to Snowdonia National Park means students studying at Bangor University get numerous scopes of outdoor activities. Hiking, kayaking, climbing, nature exploration, and any outdoor activities.


Teaching Quality and campus facilities

The campus consists of ancient and modern structures, with admirable Victorian buildings renovated with modern, state-of-the-art facilities. And speaking of facilities, Bangor offers ample resources for students.

The libraries are well equipped with multiple study spaces for group study. There are computer labs, quiet study areas, and access to tons of online resources. Such as digital books, journals, articles, newsletters, official research reports, etc.

Also, the campus includes lecture halls, well-equipped laboratories, a research centre, cafeterias, group study spaces, moot-court rooms, art building, and an innovation centre equipped with all types of modern electronic devices to help students throughout their academic journey.

The university campus is seamlessly integrated into the city and its lifestyle, ensuring that students are always close to both academic buildings and local amenities. The teaching standard of Bangor University has consistently achieved the Gold rating under the Teaching Excellence Framework for several years now.

Academic guidance is provided through highly qualified and passionate lecturers who are experts in their relevant fields. The classes are small in size, with a greater ratio for student-teacher support. It means students get personalised care and have more flexibility for personal and academic growth.

Programme Name Tuition Fees (yearly)
Arts, Humanities, Law & Business £19,000
Education Studies (12 months) £19,000
PGCE** £19,000
Healthcare Sciences £19,000
Sports, Health & Exercise Science £19,000
Accounting, Banking & Finance, incl. Business Data Analytics £20,500
Management & Marketing incl.
Consumer and Digital Marketing Analytics & Business and Marketing
£19,500 - £20,500
Computer Science £18,000 - £20,500
Design £20,500
MBA £19,500 - £20,500
Medical Sciences £20,500
Natural Sciences £20,500
Linguistics £22,500
Chartered Banker MSc/MA Banking & Finance £22,500
Electronic Engineering £22,500
Nanotechnology £22,500
Music £26,000
Genomics & Precision Medicine £26,000
Medical Molecular Biology with Genetics £26,000
Education Studies (15 months) £21,111
Counselling Year 1 (120 credits) £13,500
Counselling Year 2 (100 credits) £11,250


Clubs, Societies, and Social Life

The purpose of a university is not just to deliver academic teaching but also to provide students with an environment to develop their personal skills for challenging their future goals.

Bangor University’s Student Union is incredibly active in giving students the best student life experience by offering a huge range of clubs and societies to suit every interest. Currently, there are over 100 student clubs and societies operating to provide students with a platform to create networking based on their desired fields.

From sports clubs like rugby and rowing to societies dedicated to gaming or baking, freshmen are sure to find their tribe. So besides studies, if any student feels interested in doing activities such as sports, arts, culture, or other types of hobbies, then consider joining related clubs.

Notable activities include drama, photography, gaming, and even dog walking, which have their own separate societies. These societies provide opportunities to meet like-minded students, develop new skills, keep minds healthy, and enrich the university experience of students.

The social scene in Bangor is diverse and happening. There are plenty of pubs, bars, and restaurants spread across the city. You can relax and unwind after a long day of lectures in these locations. The Students' Union organises numerous events throughout the year, from themed nights at the student club, Academi (a student-based nightclub), to cultural festivals and workshops.

The city also hosts regular events and festivals, so there's always something going on. Also, students can check out the annual Bangor Carnival—it's a riot of colour and music!


Sports and activities

The university has excellent sports facilities, including a modern gym, swimming pool, and sports hall. Canolfan Brailsford is the university's sports and leisure centre. This indoor facility includes two main sports halls, three well-equipped gyms, a gymnastics hall, and a multi-route climbing wall.

Students can play indoor games such as Badminton, Basketball, Volleyball, Netball, Indoor hockey, Table Tennis, indoor Cricket, indoor Bowls, trampolining, etc.

For outdoor sporting, the Bangor Campus has full-sized grass pitches for football, rugby, and American football, and adjacent to that, a floodlit synthetic pitch for hockey games and training.

There is also a shared eight-lane athletic track and multi-purpose sporting field for tennis, five-a-side football, and netball.

There are also plenty of opportunities to get involved in team sports, from football and netball to hockey and lacrosse. For students who prefer the outdoors, the surrounding mountains and coastline offer endless possibilities for adventure.


Accommodation

Bangor offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From traditional halls of residence to modern apartments, Bangor on-campus accommodation can accommodate over 3000 individuals. Fulltime undergraduate and postgraduate students get guaranteed accommodation-

Accommodation Type Accommodation Name Weekly Cost
On-Campus Accommodation Ffriddoedd Village
  • Located in Upper Bangor
  • 1,960 rooms
  • 10 min walk to University
£100 to £150
St Mary's Village
  • Close to city centre
  • 650 rooms
£99 to £180
Off-Campus Accommodation Ty Willis House
  • 10 min walk to university
  • en-suite rooms and private studios
£109 to £280
Private Rentals
  • list of landlords and letting agencies provided by the university.
Private Housing The Student Housing Office can assist students in finding suitable private accommodation £70 to £150


There are also quiet halls, alcohol-free flats, and female-only flats in Bangor for students who require a disturb-free study environment.

All of these student accommodations come with 24/7 security, a sports centre with gym membership, bicycle and car parking, common rooms, furnished kitchens and living rooms, high-speed internet, and paid laundry services.

Most accommodation is within easy walking distance of the campus, and there are also regular bus services connecting different areas of the city.


Student Support

Bangor University is committed to supporting its students. There's a dedicated student support team that can provide advice and guidance on everything from academic issues to personal well-being.

To ensure a rewarding and enjoyable university experience for the students, the university provides student housing support to help students choose their preferred accommodation; there is a health support section to support students in their physical and mental health; a peer guide department to help fellow students smoothly adapt to UK university life; and counselling services (one-to-one personalised counselling).

A dedicated career support service given by the university to help students in their personal growth by teaching them CVs, cover letters, statements of purpose, interview confidence, and the opportunity to create or link networks with big employers.

The university also offers a range of financial support services, including scholarships and bursaries. To help students manage their finances, there is a health support section to support students in their physical and mental health.


International Students

Bangor welcomes students from all over the world, and there's a strong international student community. The university provides specific support services for internationals.

One of the key services provided is assistance with visa applications and immigration advice, helping students navigate the often complex process of studying abroad. When giving CAS letters to internationals, Bangor strictly maintains all the requirements provided by UKVI and also prepares candidates for VISA interviews.

The campuses organise various multicultural events throughout the year. Helping international students clear their homesickness and make connections with students from other nations.


Shopping, Restaurants, and Part-Time Work

Bangor has a decent selection of shops, including a shopping centre with high street brands. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from, offering a variety of cuisines.

For international students looking for part-time work, Bangor offers work opportunities on a variety of platforms. At present, international students doing full-time courses at UK universities can work up to 20 hours legally.

Students can work as part-time bartenders, warehouse operatives, sales representatives, receptionists, waiters at restaurants, council workers, etc.

The Students' Union often has vacancies, and there are also jobs available in local shops, restaurants, and bars. The university's careers service can also provide advice and support in finding part-time work.


Final verdict

Bangor University is one of the top universities in Wales. The university's academics are unique, and the candidates passing from this institution share a rewarding student experience.

With the presence of a beautiful campus location surrounded by mountains and ocean, an activity-filled student community, and a century-old academic reputation, Bangor is a place where international students can grow both personally and intellectually.

Students who are looking for a full-fledged university life experience with exciting events, a spacious campus, reputed academics, and expert student support service should look no further.

Bangor University is ready to provide internationals with a truly unforgettable university experience and secure future placements in foreign companies.


FAQ

Q. What is the student experience like at Bangor University?

Ans: The student experience at Bangor University is vibrant and diverse. With over 10,000 students from around the world, Bangor offers a close-knit community where students can quickly settle in and enjoy a range of activities. The university's location between the Snowdonia mountains and the sea provides a wealth of outdoor activities.

Q. How can international students get the best support at Bangor University?

Ans: Bangor University offers extensive support for international students through the International Student Support Office. This includes a welcome program, orientation sessions, airport pick-up services, regular information sessions, one-to-one appointments, and social events.

Q. Are there Halal meat shops near Bangor University?

Ans: Yes, there are plenty of halal meat shops near Bangor University, including Halal Meat And Grocers, Meat On The Corner, Llechwedd Meats, and Cheshire Halal Meat Centre.

Q. What is the transport system like at Bangor University?

Ans: The transport system at Bangor University includes local bus services, taxis, and train services. Students can use the Traveline Cymru website for local travel information and purchase tickets for buses and trains. The university also offers discounted Arriva monthly bus passes and has electric vehicles in its fleet.

Q. What events happen at Bangor University?

Ans: Bangor University hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including academic conferences, cultural celebrations, sports events, and public lectures. Some notable events include the Bangor Science Festival, International Women's Day celebrations, and the 140th anniversary of Bangor University.