Overview

Aston, a research-led university, was founded in 1895. It has been recognised as a University since 1966 and is renowned for its excellent teaching quality and significant ties to industry, government and commerce. Based in the city centre of Birmingham, it boasts a 40-acre campus with academic, social and accommodation facilities. The University’s student population of just over 9,500 comes from more than 120 countries.

The University, which is ranked 17th out of 115 UK Universities (2011 Complete University Guide), is dedicated to superior education with innovative programmes. The five main areas of study at the University are Aston Business School; the School of Engineering and Applied Science; the School of Languages and Social Sciences; the School of Life and Health Sciences; and School of Interdisciplinary Studies (for undergraduate studies).

Most of the bachelor’s degrees offer students the choice to study on sandwich courses, which include a paid work placement or a study year at a partner institution abroad. The work placement provides the opportunity to put knowledge into practice whilst gaining valuable professional experience to enhance employment prospects.

Aston Graduates are highly sought after by many major international companies, and the University is consistently at the top of the league tables for graduate employment. 82 per cent of the students find graduate level employment within six months of graduation, compared to a national average of less than 70 per cent (Sunday Times 2009 and 2008, DLHE 2008, 2009, 2 year average).  This is the 9^th highest proportion of all UK universities.

Aston’s enthusiasm for research and passion for innovation have made a tremendous impact on industry and society. The practical application of the University’s case studies has revolutionised business undertakings. Innovative business models and processes have been discovered to face challenges of the modern business world. 86 per cent of research at Aston is internationally recognised (RAE 2008) with significant elements of world leading research across all Schools of Study.