University of Bristol

Founded in 1876, the University of Bristol is a forward-thinking institution with a long history of academic excellence.

Bristol is one of the UK’s top ten universities (QS World University Rankings 2025) and top five in the UK for research (THE analysis of REF 2021). The University is a member of the Russell Group of UK research-intensive universities.

We have a reputation for doing things a bit differently. Bristol was the UK’s first institute of higher education to admit women on an equal basis with men. In 2019, we were the first UK university to declare a climate emergency.

The students and staff in our diverse academic community come from over 140 countries around the world.

Explore your postgraduate options at an upcoming event, where you will have an opportunity to speak to academics and current students and ask any questions you have about study at Bristol.

Our programmes

Bristol offers taught and research degrees in a wide range of subject areas.

You’ll be taught by expert academics who are active researchers searching for solutions to today’s global challenges.

Most taught programmes last one year full-time or two years part-time and lead to a master’s qualification (MA, MSc, MRes, LLM). Our research degrees usually lead to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) qualification, studied over three to four years.

The University has one of the largest concentrations of funded Doctoral Training and Partnerships and Centres in the UK, bringing together expert staff with industry partners. These programmes can help you develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to launch a successful career in academia or industry.

Living in Bristol

Bristol has all the vibrant energy of a big city, but its friendly relaxed atmosphere will help you quickly feel at home. Our thriving, green city is in the south-west of England. Less than two hours from London and surrounded by beautiful countryside, it’s the perfect backdrop for your postgraduate experience.

We are proud of our multicultural community, home to people from more than 185 countries, speaking 90 languages. The University is at the heart of the city. You can enjoy the lively arts and music scene, independent shops and buzzing neighbourhoods just minutes from campus.

Explore the University and city of Bristol with our 360-degree virtual tour. If you’re visiting Bristol, book a guided tour with a current postgraduate student.

Your Future

Bristol students are highly sought after by employers. The University has an outstanding reputation, ranked 12th in the UK for employment outcomes (QS World University Rankings 2025)

A postgraduate degree from Bristol can equip you with the skills and experience to help you go further in your professional field, and we will make sure you’re well prepared for your future career.

Bristol has strong industry connections, and our Careers Service can offer expert advice and events exclusively for postgraduate students.

Facilities

Our campus is designed to enhance your university experience and give you all the tools you need to succeed.
We are continually investing in our facilities and technology. The University has committed around £700 million to projects that will transform our campuses, buildings and facilities. The new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus will be a space for students, academics, businesses and partners to work together alongside the local community.

At Bristol, the Global Lounge brings together our diverse community of students and staff on campus. This vibrant space provides a range of cultural events and activities for home and international students, it’s the perfect place to meet new friends.

Funding

There are several funding options available to students. Bristol master's students from the UK can apply for the UK government’s Postgraduate Loans Scheme.

International students can also apply for a variety of different scholarships such as our Think Big scholarships, which can help fund your tuition fees.

Visit the University website for the latest finance information and to search for funding.