With roots dating back to 1839, the University of Chichester has a rich heritage in teacher training. It expanded after WWII with a second campus in Bognor Regis, and the two colleges merged in 1977. Recognised for its academic growth and community impact, it proudly became a full university in 2005.
Higher education should be open to everyone who has the ability and potential to benefit from it, regardless of age, ethnicity, disability, or family background. Experience shows that a diverse student group creates a lively and successful community. By choosing to study at Chichester, students join an inclusive, supportive, and caring university where every individual is truly valued.
The University offers a diverse portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across a wide range of subject areas. A commitment to smaller class sizes allows expert teaching staff to get to know students personally and provide excellent levels of one-to-one support throughout their studies.
Research is central to everything they do at the University of Chichester. The three research themes set out key missions and strengths; they reflect the diversity of approaches we take in research, facilitating new connections between subject areas, methods, and aims.
REF 2021 classified 86 per cent of the University of Chichester's outputs as internationally renowned, and a further 12 per cent as world-leading.
Among the strongest results were:
At Chichester, they are dedicated to helping students plan their future and empowering them to build the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to develop a professional mindset and achieve their desired graduate outcomes.
Gaining work experience while studying is crucial—not only to support living expenses but also to acquire valuable experience that enhances employability.
According to the 2021 Graduate Outcomes Survey, 95.8% of the graduates were in employment or further study fifteen months after graduation.
The goal is to ensure that students graduate equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in their chosen careers.
Students also have access to the general support provided by the university. These include:
The University offers a range of university-managed accommodation, both off and on-campus, along with full support to help students choose the right combination. All Halls of Residence are professionally managed, secure, and supported by the University’s team 24/7. Where possible, students will share with other postgraduate or mature students. For those who prefer private rented accommodation, support is also available in the search process.
Accommodation options include:
Adapted and priority accommodation is also available, featuring standard adaptations for students with a disability.
The Learning Resource Centres hold more than 200,000 books, and students also have access to over 500,000 ebooks which can be accessed both on and off campus. There are around 380 print subscriptions to journals, as well as electronic access to a further 12,000 journals containing over 20 million articles.
Students have access to our open-access PCs in the latest all-in-one models, designed to maximise both desk space and flexibility, with a wide range of software to support their studies. Each student account provides access to email-for-life, printing and scanning facilities, as well as generous network and internet storage for personal files.
The University has a student health centre on both campuses that can offer confidential professional support and advice. Students can visit the nurse health advisers if they have any health concerns. The nurse health advisers also provide information about doctors and surgeries that are closest to their accommodation.
Chichester has two campus-based locations: Bishop Otter in Chichester and Bognor Regis. Both offer a safe, convenient student experience, blending historic buildings with modern facilities. Each campus has a well-equipped library and learning spaces to support academic success. Students’ Unions on both sites host events, clubs, and activities for life beyond study. Chichester is a short walk from the city centre, while Bognor Regis is close to the beach and high street. Excellent transport links connect students to London in 90 minutes, with major airports nearby.
Sport plays a major role at the University of Chichester. The facilities support academic teaching, research, BUCS competitions, and recreational use by students, staff, and the local community. They’re also used by national and regional sports bodies for pathway and academy training, as well as coaching courses, including GB Tri, England & Sussex Netball, Sussex Hockey, and Sussex FA. They have strong links with local clubs such as Chichester Rugby Club & Chichester City FC. Facilities include a fitness suite, sports hall, astro turf, climbing walls, dance studios, and racket courts.
The University of Chichester Students’ Union (UCSU) offers support, representation, and, most importantly, fun throughout the academic journey. All students automatically become members, gaining access to over 50 clubs and societies. These cover a wide range of interests, from the International Society and Korean Culture Society to sports clubs like American Football and Rackets. UCSU provides opportunities for students to connect, stay active, and explore new interests during their time at Chichester.
Ranked 26th in the Guardian University Guide 2025, placing them among the top universities in the country.
Rated 28th in the UK for teaching quality by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.
The law programmes were ranked 1st out of 112 universities in the National Student Survey (NSS) 2024.
Recognised as a top 20 university for teaching, feedback, and assessment in the NSS 2024.
Awarded the prestigious Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023.
Both the primary and secondary teacher training programmes are rated Outstanding by Ofsted.
Based on 11 reviews
Great university, I would recommend to people. The psychology department is increasing and expanding making the resource available for more people. Another attribute that is worth mentioning is their student support network. helping students with their further aspirations as well. the staff are amazing.
Brilliant university and I've thoroughly enjoyed my time studying here. If you're considering studying at Chichester, especially if you're into social sciences then I'd recommend it! Great staff, great location, great services and great nightlife.
This university offers a strong variety of courses, so it�s easy to find something that suits your interests. The student nightlife and societies are lively and make it simple to get involved and meet people. I really like the smaller university feel, as it creates a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Events like the RAG race are a highlight and bring the student community together. Living in the city is a big plus, and overall student satisfaction here is well deserved.
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