Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) is one of the leading specialist art and design universities in the UK, offering world-class education in creative disciplines. From fashion design and fine arts to film production and animation, AUB provides a unique environment for students to develop their artistic talents and engage in professional practice. As a growing number of international students choose AUB for their higher education, understanding the financial aspects of studying at this institution—such as tuition fees, accommodation costs (hostel fees), and available scholarships—becomes crucial.
This article provides an overview of Arts University Bournemouth’s fees, accommodation options, and scholarships for international students, offering essential information for those looking to study at this prestigious institution.
Overview of Arts University Bournemouth
Located in the vibrant coastal town of Poole in Dorset, Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) is a specialist institution known for its focus on art, design, and performance. Founded in 1880 as a school of art, it has evolved into a leading creative university offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a range of subjects, including:
- Fine Arts
- Animation
- Film Production
- Fashion Design
- Photography
- Graphic Design
- Interior Architecture
- Makeup for Media and Performance
AUB prides itself on providing a nurturing environment for students to flourish creatively while preparing them for careers in the creative industries. The university maintains strong links with the arts sector, with many programs featuring collaborations with industry professionals, placements, and opportunities for students to exhibit their work.
AUB’s campus is modern and purpose-built for creative courses, offering a wide range of facilities, including state-of-the-art studios, digital labs, and performance spaces. The university’s location in Bournemouth also places students in proximity to a thriving arts and media scene, with opportunities for networking, internships, and real-world experiences.
Tuition Fees for International Students at AUB
Tuition fees for international students at Arts University Bournemouth are structured differently for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. International students can expect to pay higher fees than domestic students, reflecting the cost of providing high-quality education and maintaining the specialized resources necessary for creative programs.
1. Undergraduate Programs
The tuition fees for international undergraduate students at AUB generally range from £14,000 to £20,000 per year, depending on the course. Some programs may be priced higher based on the level of specialization and the resources involved. For example:
- Fashion Design: £18,000 per year
- Fine Art: £15,000 per year
- Film Production: £16,000 per year
- Animation: £17,500 per year
- Graphic Design: £15,000 per year
The variation in fees is influenced by the nature of the course and the level of technical and creative support required. Additionally, international students are typically required to pay a deposit as part of their enrollment process, which is often deducted from their overall tuition fee.
2. Postgraduate Programs
For international students pursuing postgraduate programs, tuition fees at AUB range from £15,000 to £22,000 per year, depending on the course. For instance:
- MA Fine Art: £16,500 per year
- MA Animation Production: £18,000 per year
- MA Film Practice: £17,500 per year
- MA Fashion Design: £20,000 per year
Postgraduate fees at AUB are designed to reflect the advanced nature of the study and the access students have to industry professionals, bespoke equipment, and specialized facilities.
3. Additional Fees
In addition to tuition fees, international students should be aware of other potential costs, such as:
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Course Materials and Equipment: Some courses, especially in fine arts and design, may require students to purchase specialized materials, tools, or equipment. These costs can vary but typically range from £100 to £500 per year, depending on the program.
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Visa and Immigration Fees: International students will also need to factor in the cost of a Tier 4 student visa (if applicable), which includes an application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is mandatory for international students to access healthcare during their stay in the UK.
It’s important for prospective international students to check the latest fee schedules on the AUB website and ensure they account for all additional costs associated with their studies.
Hostel Accommodation Fees at AUB
Accommodation costs can be another significant factor for international students when considering studying in the UK. Arts University Bournemouth offers a range of on-campus accommodation options, along with guidance for students seeking private housing in the area.
1. On-Campus Accommodation
AUB offers several student residences that are conveniently located near the university campus, providing easy access to university facilities and the town of Bournemouth. On-campus housing gives international students the advantage of being close to their academic environment, social opportunities, and essential services.
Some of the on-campus accommodation options include:
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Lansdowne Point: This is one of the main student accommodation facilities at AUB. It offers en-suite rooms with shared kitchen and living areas. The weekly cost of a room in Lansdowne Point ranges from £150 to £190 per week, depending on the type of room and its facilities.
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The Old Fire Station: This accommodation offers both self-catered and catered options for students. Prices for rooms at The Old Fire Station typically range from £140 to £170 per week.
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Private Student Accommodation: AUB also works with private providers who offer student housing in the local area. These accommodations tend to be a little more flexible and can range from £120 to £250 per week depending on the location, room type, and amenities provided.
All AUB accommodations are fully furnished and equipped with essential amenities, including Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and secure access. Students living on-campus also have the added benefit of living in a vibrant student community, providing ample opportunity to connect with peers from around the world.
2. Off-Campus Accommodation
For students who prefer to live off-campus, Bournemouth offers a variety of private housing options. These can range from shared student flats and houses to private studios and apartments. Monthly rents for off-campus accommodation typically range from £400 to £800 per month, depending on the type of property and its location.
The advantage of off-campus accommodation is the opportunity for greater independence, and students can often find more affordable options if they are willing to commute or share accommodation. However, students should be aware of additional costs such as utility bills (e.g., electricity, water, internet) and transportation if they choose accommodation farther from the campus.
Scholarships for International Students
University College Bournemouth offers a range of scholarships to assist international students with the cost of tuition and living expenses. These scholarships are designed to attract talented students from around the world, and they vary in size and eligibility criteria.
1. AUB International Scholarship
One of the primary scholarships offered to international students is the AUB International Scholarship. This award is aimed at supporting talented students who have been accepted into one of AUB’s undergraduate or postgraduate programs. Scholarships typically provide a partial tuition fee discount, ranging from £1,000 to £2,000.
To be eligible for this scholarship, students must demonstrate outstanding academic performance or a strong portfolio of creative work, depending on their course of study. The scholarship is competitive and awarded based on the merits of the applicant.
2. AUB International Excellence Scholarship
The International Excellence Scholarship is another prestigious award available to international students at AUB. This scholarship recognizes exceptional academic achievement and outstanding creative work in applicants. The scholarship provides a significant reduction in tuition fees, often covering up to £4,000 of the tuition fee for the duration of the program.
The eligibility criteria for this scholarship typically include achieving a high standard in the student’s application and being able to demonstrate a commitment to pursuing a career in their chosen creative field.
3. Chevening Scholarships
For international students pursuing postgraduate study, AUB is a recognized institution for Chevening Scholarships, which are funded by the UK government. These prestigious scholarships are available to students from selected countries and cover full tuition fees, airfare, and living costs for the duration of the course. The Chevening program is highly competitive and is aimed at individuals who demonstrate leadership potential and a strong commitment to making a positive impact in their home country.
4. Commonwealth Scholarships
Another scholarship option for students from Commonwealth countries is the Commonwealth Scholarship, which offers full funding for postgraduate study. This scholarship covers tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses and is available to students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries.
5. Country-Specific Scholarships
AUB also offers a range of country-specific scholarships aimed at supporting students from certain regions. These scholarships typically provide partial fee reductions and are designed to foster cultural diversity on campus. Students should check with the AUB international office to learn more about scholarships available for specific countries.
Cost of Living in Bournemouth
Bournemouth is considered one of the more affordable coastal towns in the UK for students, especially when compared to major cities like London or Manchester. On average, international students can expect to spend between £800 and £1,200 per month on living expenses, including rent, food, transport, and personal costs.
Some tips for managing living costs in Bournemouth include:
- Cooking at home: Food costs can be reduced by cooking meals rather than eating out.
- Using public transport: Bournemouth has a good public transport network, and students can save money by using a bus or bike for commuting.
- Student discounts: Many retailers and services offer student discounts, helping students save money on essentials.
Conclusion
Arts University Bournemouth is an excellent choice for international students seeking high-quality education in the creative arts. While tuition and accommodation fees can be substantial, AUB provides a variety of scholarships that can help offset costs. The university also offers comfortable and affordable housing options, both on-campus and off-campus, and the town of Bournemouth is a great place to live, with a relatively low cost of living compared to other major UK cities.
With its emphasis on creativity, employability, and student support, Arts University Bournemouth is well-equipped to provide an enriching experience for international students. By exploring scholarship opportunities and managing living costs effectively, students can make the most of their time studying in this vibrant and inspiring environment.