London South Bank University, UK - Ranking, Reviews, Courses, Tuition Fees

Overview

About London South Bank University

London South Bank University (LSBU) is a long-established public university with a strong focus on career-ready education. With roots dating back to 1892, LSBU combines academic expertise with modern teaching methods and facilities designed to reflect real-world professional environments.

Located in central London, LSBU offers students access to one of the world’s most dynamic employment markets. Its location supports close engagement with businesses, public sector organisations and professional bodies, many of which contribute directly to course content, live projects and placement opportunities.

LSBU is home to over 15,000 students, including a large international community representing more than 130 countries. Its global alumni network of over 80,000 graduates provide valuable professional connections for students as they enter the workforce.

Dedicated support teams help international students settle into life in the UK and succeed academically, both socially and professionally. From arrival through to graduation, LSBU focuses on helping students build confidence, skills and employability.

Students also benefit from an active students’ union, offering clubs, societies, events and representation, alongside opportunities for leadership, volunteering and personal development.

University Ranking

QS World University Rankings

2026 901 100

2025 801 50

2024 851

Times Higher Education World University Rankings

2026 601

2025 601

2024 601

Graduate outcomes

Employability and graduate earnings are key strengths at LSBU, supported by professional-focused courses and services such as LSBU CareerSmart and the Careers Hub.

According to the latest data from the UK Government’s Longitudinal Educational Outcomes (LEO) dataset, LSBU graduates, who stayed in London, earn the highest average salaries of all London Modern universities one year after graduating and continue to do so three and five years post-graduation. This reflects LSBU’s strong career preparation, practical learning and employer engagement.

Some subject areas perform particularly strongly in national earnings comparisons, with:

Medical Science graduates ranking top in the UK for earnings
Architecture graduates earn the second-highest average salaries
Health and Social Care graduates ranking fourth
Nursing and Midwifery graduates ranking eighth nationally in earnings
Additionally, around a quarter of LSBU graduates earn over GBP 38,300 a year after graduation.

LSBU also maintains strong employment rates, with high proportions of graduates in work or further study within 15 months of completing their course, reflecting the university’s emphasis on career-relevant teaching, placements and professional development.

Support for graduate success includes:

Personalised careers advice and planning
Industry networking and employer events
Workshops on CV writing, interviews and professional skills
Opportunities for placements and work experience during study

This integrated career support helps students transition confidently from study into rewarding roles in the UK and internationally.

What’s New

LSBU is constantly developing and pushing boundaries to improve all aspects of life at the university. LSBU continues to evolve its academic offer, facilities and student experience to support future careers and global graduate success. Recent developments include:

A new academic structure consolidating studies into three colleges to strengthen collaboration, industry engagement and professional relevance.
The ongoing expansion of LSBU CareerSmart: a comprehensive, lifelong careers programme that embeds employability into the student journey from day one. LSBU CareerSmart offers personalised career tools, coaching, workshops, industry networking opportunities, skill-building modules and even AI-powered CV and application support to help students develop real-world career readiness as they study.
New scholarship opportunities for international students.
Continued investment in inclusive education and equality initiatives.

Students benefit all year from guest speakers, employer events and practical industry experiences that broaden learning and enhance career potential.

Finances

How much will it cost?

Average tuition fees per year

11,70,332 Undergraduate Fees are for indicative purposes, check with institution for details

9,50,704 Postgraduate Fees are for indicative purposes, check with institution for details

Scholarships & funding

The university understands that one of the primary concerns for students applying for a university degree will be finances, so there is ample support available to guide students through their application and with further funding help throughout their time in London.

Part of this support comes in the form of scholarships – there are several available for international students which can cover tuition fees or other aspects of university life, such as accommodation, books, or travel expenses. Some of these scholarships are awarded in recognition of academic talent or hard work, while others are available to all.

The university also offers financial advice through its support teams, including help with budgeting and finding part-time work that fits around studies. While all international students will have to provide proof of funding when applying, there is a recognition that students may still need help with additional income, the university can signpost to opportunities and help with applications.

Eligibility

Entry requirements

The entry requirements for study at LSBU can vary depending on the student’s chosen course, but as a guideline for international students, high school transcripts (or equivalent) must be submitted alongside the application. Unlike domestic students living in the UK, international students apply directly to the university, so students can find all the information they need on the process on the university’s website.

Several intake dates may be available, allowing students to begin their studies at a time to suit them, depending on the course they choose. The course will also dictate whether any specific admission requirements apply, such as providing a portfolio of work.

As all courses at LSBU are taught in English, students applying from a country where English is not the primary language will also have to provide test scores through an approved language partner. The minimum scores also depend on the course, with more technical subjects often requiring a better understanding of the language.

Department and Faculty

Teaching quality

Teaching at LSBU is professionally focused and practice led. Courses are developed in collaboration with industry partners and professional bodies to ensure learning reflects current standards and employer expectations.

Academic staff bring a blend of teaching expertise, professional experience and applied research into the classroom. Staff have extensive industry experience and are able to impart key professional insights to students, in addition to teaching them valuable skills and knowledge. Teaching methods are interactive and flexible, with an emphasis on problem-solving, teamwork and real-world application.

Many courses include:

Guest lectures from industry professionals
Practical projects and live briefs
Opportunities to apply learning through placements, simulations or professional practice

This approach helps students graduate with both academic knowledge and workplace-relevant skills.

Department structure

LSBU is organised into three academic colleges, each bringing together related disciplines to strengthen collaboration, leadership and industry engagement.

College of Health and Life Sciences

This college focuses on education and research that supports health, wellbeing and community care. It brings together disciplines that prepare students for careers in healthcare, life sciences and allied professions.

College of Technology and Environment

This college covers technology-driven and built environment disciplines, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, innovation and applied technical skills. Courses are closely aligned with industry needs and professional standards.

College of Society and Professions

This college brings together business, law, education, arts and social sciences. It focuses on developing professional skills, leadership, creativity and critical thinking for careers across public, private and creative sectors.

Each college works closely with employers and professional bodies to ensure teaching remains relevant, applied and aligned with evolving industry expectations.