University of Chichester
University of Chichester

University of Chichester

Chichester, United Kingdom +2

University of Chichester About

The University of Chichester offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern innovation on England’s south coast. Ranked among the UK’s best for teaching quality and student satisfaction, it provides career-focused degrees in a supportive community where students are known by name and encouraged to thrive.
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History

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.

Education

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

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:

  • Sport – which was deemed 73 per cent internationally excellent or world-leading
  • English and Creative Writing – judged 68 per cent internationally excellent or world-leading
  • History – measured at 66 per cent internationally excellent or world-leading

Career

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.

Top reasons to study here

  • Gold rated teaching excellence through small class sizes.
  • A friendly, supportive community.
  • Beautiful, safe location just 90 minutes from London, near coast and countryside.

University of Chichester Key Statistics & Highlights

  • 7 Courses
  • 6,826 Students
  • 277 Students (int'l)
  • 4,564 Students (female)
  • Public Institution Type

Student services

Students also have access to the general support provided by the university. These include: 

  • Support and Information Zone (SIZ) 
  • Academic advisers 
  • Disability and dyslexia service 
  • Careers and employability 
  • Student money advice 
  • Wellbeing 
  • Student health service 
  • Chaplaincy  

Housing services

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:

  • Catered with ensuite
  • Catered with shared/superior shared facilities
  • Self-catered with ensuite
  • Self-catered with shared facilities

Adapted and priority accommodation is also available, featuring standard adaptations for students with a disability.

Library services

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. 

ICT services

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.

Medical services

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.

Campus life

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.

Sports facilities

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.

Student clubs

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.

Accreditation

  • Top 30 in the UK

Ranked 26th in the Guardian University Guide 2025, placing them among the top universities in the country.

  • Excellence in Teaching

Rated 28th in the UK for teaching quality by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.

  • Outstanding Law Courses

The law programmes were ranked 1st out of 112 universities in the National Student Survey (NSS) 2024.

  • Top 20 for Student Experience

Recognised as a top 20 university for teaching, feedback, and assessment in the NSS 2024.

  • Gold Standard Teaching

Awarded the prestigious Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023.

  • Exceptional Teacher Training

Both the primary and secondary teacher training programmes are rated Outstanding by Ofsted.

University of Chichester Overview

University of Chichester Campus Locations

#1 Main Campus
United Kingdom Country
Chichester City

University of Chichester Student Reviews & Awards

4.2

Based on 17 reviews

  • 5 Star
    7 Reviews
  • 4 Star
    8 Reviews
  • 3 Star
    1 Review
  • 2 Star
    0 Reviews
  • 1 Star
    1 Review
5/5

loving the atmosphere

Being a student at Chichester College is fantastic. There are plenty of dining options, quiet areas for solitary study, and specialized teaching facilities. Students can flourish in a nurturing learning environment at Chichester College. I was genuinely enriched by the diverse range of courses, dedicated faculty, and vibrant campus community. The school's efforts to make sure all students, particularly People of Color, feel appreciated and welcomed on campus demonstrate its strong emphasis on diversity. All things considered, my time at Chichester College has been fulfilling, and I would advise anyone looking for a dynamic learning environment to give this school some thought.

Posted by Tho
Studied from Unknown
Posted on Aug 2026
5/5

love the teaching energy

My time at Chichester College has been both demanding and fulfilling. This well-organized biology program places a lot of emphasis on practical applications and moral issues. The instructors are informed, helpful, and frequently bring their professional experience to the classroom, which enhances the learning process's practicality and engagement. The college offers a wealth of resources, such as databases and research software, which are very beneficial for coursework and research.

Posted by Perry
Studied from Unknown
Posted on Aug 2026
4/5

Wide range of courses and a great student vibe

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.

Posted by Peter
Studied from Unknown
Posted on Aug 2026
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