University of Chester

Founded in 1839, the University of Chester is a 21st century institution that is still guided by the principles that founded it. Through the work of our academic staff and collaborators, the University has been assessed as having more than half of our submitted research as world leading or internationally excellent (Research Excellence Framework, 2021), and was voted in the top ten nationally for Postgraduate Study (Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2022).

Our open, inclusive and supportive approach shapes our Citizen Student Strategy, demonstrating our commitment to creating an outstanding learning experience, whilst supporting every student to reach their full potential.

We have four sites in Chester, as well as in Shrewsbury, Warrington and Birkenhead.

The University of Chester has been awarded the Navajo Merseyside and Cheshire LGBTIQA Charter Mark, one of only two higher education institutions in the North West, recognising our dedication to supporting LGBT+ colleagues and students across all sites.

PG subjects available

Most of our taught postgraduate courses can be studied either full time or part time.

Highly flexible, Work Based and Integrative Studies (WBIS) is a distance learning option for students to receive academic recognition for the skills and knowledge developed through real workplace learning in areas that are important to you.

Find out more about our schools:

• School for the Creative Industries
• Chester School of Education
• School of Humanities and Social Sciences
• School of Nursing and Midwifery
• School of Law and Social Justice
• School of Society
• Chester Medical School
• School of Allied and Public Health
• School of Computing and Engineering Sciences
• School of Natural Sciences
• Chester Business School

Find out about more about our Postgraduate Research Degrees.

One of the things I’ve always said about the University of Chester is that they make you feel like more than a number, and during the process of applying and starting my PhD, I certainly felt like that. The Department made me feel like a valued member of the University and we were genuinely excited to start my research project.

Jacob, Sociology of Sport and Exercise MSc

Future career prospects

In addition to providing advice and guidance, our Careers and Employability service has established links with local and national employers, as well as professional bodies. It organises fairs, workshops, talks and events, including our Venture Programmes, and paid work may be available on site with UniJob, our friendly recruitment service.

You can meet Career Consultants, access careers skills training and career planning, CV assessments, employability training sessions and mock interviews.

English language support

Entry on to postgraduate courses is dependent on your academic qualifications. In addition, if your first language is not English, you’ll need to demonstrate that you meet our English language entry requirements.

Facilities and support arrangements

You’ll have access to our modern IT and library services, which are available across our learning sites. They have additional features such as bookable study spaces and learning pods, laptop loans, late opening times and 24-hour access computer labs available at some of our larger libraries.

We have a dedicated Student Support and Wellbeing team providing a wide range of support services, and offering information, advice and guidance.

We also have an extensive range of indoor and outdoor sports and leisure facilities available for both competitive and recreational sports – visit Sport and Active Lifestyle to find out more.

Fees, funding and costs

Visit Postgraduate Finance for up-to-date information on fees, funding, loans, NHS Grants, payment options, tuition fees and scholarships for international students, and to find out about other financial help on offer.

If you’re a University of Chester graduate, you may be eligible for a discount in tuition fees through our Graduate Loyalty Discount.

Facilities and support arrangements

You’ll have access to our modern IT and library services, which are available across our learning sites. They have additional features such as bookable study spaces and learning pods, laptop loans, late opening times and 24-hour access computer labs available at some of our larger libraries.

We have a dedicated Student Support and Wellbeing team providing a wide range of support services, and offering information, advice and guidance.

We also have an extensive range of indoor and outdoor sports and leisure facilities available for both competitive and recreational sports – visit Sport and Active Lifestyle to find out more.

Fees, funding and costs

Visit Postgraduate Finance for up-to-date information on fees, funding, loans, NHS Grants, payment options, tuition fees and scholarships for international students, and to find out about other financial help on offer.

If you’re a University of Chester graduate, you may be eligible for a discount in tuition fees through our Graduate Loyalty Discount.

Culture

Steeped in history, Chester offers everything you would expect from a modern-day city. It’s home to high street brands and thriving independent boutiques, together with art venues, exciting places to eat and drink, and a lively nightlife scene. Plus, Chester has been awarded the coveted ‘Purple Flag’ status in recognition of its flourishing night-time economy and safe environment during the day and night.

Warrington is a vibrant town, home to arts, culture, shopping and sport. Throughout the year, Warrington offers a range of live music festivals and events, such as the award-winning dance event, Creamfields, as well as the Neighbourhood Weekender festival. It’s also the perfect location for sports fans, being home to Warrington Wolves – one of the best teams in Rugby League.

How to apply

Depending on which qualification you’re applying for, we have differing application processes and different admissions teams. Visit the How to Apply section of our website to find out how to apply, and to whom, for your chosen course.