Which should you choose, and how much of a difference will this make to your university life? Although often roughly split into two categories, universities often describe themselves by different names, so let us look at the most popular four to help you make your decision.
City University – A city university is one where the different faculties, library etc are based in different parts of the city, usually clustered around the city centre, surrounded by bars, restaurants cafes and nightlife. The genuine experience of the city, attractions, and facilities all on your doorstep. You will have public transport around, and the experience of exploring the city walking between lectures. Of course, you will lose time travelling between different buildings and your halls may not be as close to let you roll out of bed in time for your morning lecture! Living in the city will be more expensive than on campus, you have the travel and the cost of living to bear in mind. However, you may meet a wider bunch of people from diverse backgrounds. The experience can be anything from exhilarating to overwhelming depending on your background!
Campus University - A campus university is where most of the institution is based in a single location, although different universities will have halls either on or off campus despite the name. Everything you need is on site. Lectures, shops, gym, clubs and societies, entertainment, and the student union and this is going to be cheaper. Everything is walking distance and you’re in a safe environment. Of course, you will have to head off campus to have a change in scenery and people, you’ll be surrounded by your fellow university colleges and no one else.
Multi Campus - Something between the two, these universities tend to have a couple of hubs within a city. You could be based at one, or have to travel between the two depending on your course. You may find yourself living at one but finding all the social activity at the other.
College-city/town - Some universities are split into colleges throughout a town. Here you may spend all day every day in a single location, but wandering to and from it, from your halls and to the library.
Moving out of halls in your 2nd Year
Second year will change everything for you. A big decision to make is where you are going to live. Some universities such as Oxford do have halls for students in their second and third year but you also have the choice of moving into private accommodation. Every city has its ‘norm’, from private rented housing with friends, to university organised private housing, to private student flats, but the chances are that you will be moving a little further away.
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