Postgraduate and Professional Guide - 2025

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A warm welcome

Here at Buckinghamshire New University we are passionate about providing you with the opportunity to succeed. Whether it is progressing in your current profession or taking the leap and beginning a new career, BNU is here by your side as you achieve your goals.

From our industry-experienced academic teaching teams to our state-of-the-art facilities, we’re here to equip you with the integral skills needed to take control of your future and give you an edge in the competitive job market.

By studying with us you will have access to our extensive connections with professional bodies, practitioners and employers. We ensure you are learning the latest industry-standard information, whilst having the opportunity to start building a network of contacts to help further your career.

We are proud to be celebrating over 130 years of learning and cannot wait to pass on all this experience to you. If you choose to study here, we’ll make sure that you get the most from your time with us.

Whatever your chosen qualification, be it an FDA, master’s degree or professional certification, we work hard to make sure you are well-prepared for whatever you choose to do when you leave us.

BNU awards

UNIVERSITY OF THE YEAR for South East England

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025

RANKED

TOP TEN for Teaching Quality

The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025

RANKED

TOP TEN for graduates earning over £45,000

HESA 2025

RANKED

TOP 5 Students’ Union in the UK

National Students Survey 2025

*See bnu.ac.uk

INSPIRED. EMPOWERED. EMPLOYED.

Why study at postgraduate or professional level?

Making the decision to study a postgraduate or professional qualification can be a big step but we believe there really is no limit to what you can achieve whilst studying with us at BNU.

From the thrill of discovering new ideas to the rush of putting yourself front and centre as a leader, our courses help provide you with the building blocks and expertise to become a confident professional, able to stand out in the competitive job market.

We are committed to helping you find your voice and build the skills needed to help you become a leader in your field. We not only give you the chance to learn the theories from our expert academics but to also put these skills into action by working with industry.

A number of our courses have been specifically designed with input from professional bodies and institutions.

Graduating with a professionally accredited or recognised qualification is desirable to potential employers as it shows you are upto-date with the latest industry knowledge and have developed best industry practice.

Your study options

Deciding to go back into education at a postgraduate or professional level can mean that you have other responsibilities in addition to your studies. Here at BNU we offer a wide range of study options across our courses to give you the peace of mind that you can easily fit your qualification around your professional and personal commitments.

Where you will be based will depend on your course. Buckinghamshire New University has vibrant and bustling locations, High Wycombe, Uxbridge and Aylesbury.

All of our bases are perfectly placed for travel to London or even further afield with conveniently located train and tube stations close by. Heathrow Airport is also in close proximity, so international travel could not be easier.

If you are wondering which of our courses is perfect for you, check out further details including mode of study and location on our website at bnu.ac.uk/courses

FULL-TIME

Our full-time postgraduate and professional courses require you to attend lectures, seminars and tutorials at the University for some of your study. This may be during weekdays, evenings or on a weekend.

PART-TIME

Many people choosing postgraduate or professional study find part-time courses to be a good match; this would allow you to continue working whilst studying.

DISTANCE LEARNING

We understand that learning comes in all kinds of forms. We have a range of courses that we offer as distance learning. You can access your work online via a range of options, for example our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE); Blackboard, with tutor support via telephone, email or Microsoft Teams.

BLENDED LEARNING

Delivery generally blends in-person and online learning activities into an integrated experience.

Online learning will constitute a substantial part of the programme (25% or more) typically taking place between onsite activities.

Teaching can be delivered in ‘real time’ or be recorded and documented on a Virtual Learning Environment for learners to study in their own time. In-person learning may include non-standard patterns of attendance, e.g. residential study weekends.

APPRENTICESHIPS

We also work in partnership with a range of employers to offer apprenticeships, these are created to fit around your schedule so you can live and work, whilst still growing your skillset and gaining a qualification.

If would like to know more about our apprenticeships, get in touch with our apprenticeships team by emailing apprenticeships@bnu.ac.uk

Making your application

If you’ve decided that you want to study at BNU, then here’s your next step.

HOW TO APPLY

For our part-time undergraduate, or full and part-time postgraduate applications, you can apply directly to us.

WHAT SHOULD I INCLUDE WITH MY APPLICATION?

When submitting your application, you will be advised of any additional supporting information we require.

THIS MAY INCLUDE:

+ clear copies of your highest qualification, such as your degree; you may also need to provide copies of your English language qualification

+ one written reference from either your employer or previous lecturers

+ a personal statement explaining why you wish to study this course and any relevant experience you may have

+ a clear copy of your passport and visa if applicable (visit bnu.ac.uk/international for information)

+ a copy of your CV.

IS THERE AN APPLICATION DEADLINE?

For applications made via UCAS, the equal consideration date for submission is 14 January. For our postgraduate or part-time undergraduate courses, typically there are no deadlines for home students, but there are deadlines for international students; visit bnu.ac.uk/international for full details. We recommend applying as early as possible.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

As many of our qualifications are professionally based, we review your qualifications and work experience in order to determine your suitability.

For some of our courses you are required to attend an interview, but where possible we will contact you via email or phone to discuss your information.

Updates are communicated through email so please ensure these details are correct on your form.

If you have made an application via UCAS, any updates regarding your application will be visible on your UCAS Track.

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE CORRESPONDENCE FROM THE UNIVERSITY?

We will let you know by email once your application has been received and if we need any further information. Details regarding the start of your course, including joining instructions, will be emailed to you nearer to the start date.

WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS OF MY OFFER?

You will be able to check the conditions of your offer by emailing admissions@bnu. ac.uk or calling 0330 123 2023. You will also be sent an offer letter which will state the conditions.

I HAVE BEEN GIVEN AN OFFER, WHAT HAPPENS NOW?

All you need to do is reply to the offer stating whether you wish to accept the place. If you have made an application via UCAS, you can respond to your offer via your UCAS Track.

Once you have accepted the offer you will be emailed further details regarding your course nearer to the start date.

If you have chosen not to study at BNU and are holding a firm offer with us, then you need to email admissions@bnu.ac.uk

DO YOU ACCEPT TRANSFERS TO BUCKINGHAMSHIRE NEW UNIVERSITY?

For some courses it may be possible to transfer or be exempt from certain modules or credits. In order to determine this, we would need you to attach your official transcripts of study to the application so we can assess your suitability.

MY CONDITIONAL OFFER IS BASED ON PROVIDING QUALIFICATIONSHOW DO I DO THIS?

Please send clear copies of your qualifications to admissions@bnu.ac.uk where the team can proceed with your application. You will need to provide your name and the course you have applied for in the body of the email.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON’T MEET THE CONDITIONS OF THE OFFER?

We review applications on an individual basis so please contact admissions@bnu.ac.uk or call 0330 123 2023 and we can discuss your options with you.

I CAN’T LOCATE MY QUALIFICATIONS - WHAT CAN I DO?

We ask to see copies of your qualifications as evidence of your education. If you are a mature student and took your qualifications a few years ago please give us a call. However, if you don’t have copies of your qualification and have taken them recently you may need to contact your exam board. In either case, please contact the Admissions Team for advice.

I WOULD LIKE TO DEFER MY APPLICATION - HOW DO I DO THIS?

We are able to defer applicants for certain courses. If you wish to defer, please email admissions@bnu.ac.uk stating your name and the course you have applied for. You will only be able to defer if you are holding an unconditional offer.

I STILL HAVE SOME MORE QUESTIONS

We’re here to help, so if you have any other questions regarding your application, please email admissions@bnu.ac.uk, call 0330 123 2023 or use our online chat bnu.ac.uk/chat.

Further information regarding the application process can be found at bnu.ac.uk/study

Funding

Embarking on further university study may seem financially daunting, but there are now a range of funding options available for postgraduate and professional students, so paying for your studies may be easier than you think.

STUDENT FINANCE

If you are a home student studying one of our professional courses at undergraduate level and have not previously been granted a loan from Student Finance England, you may be eligible to apply for a tuition fee loan to cover the cost of your course fees. Eligibility criteria apply.

For more information, visit: gov.uk/student-finance.

POSTGRADUATE LOAN SCHEME

The Government have introduced a scheme for master’s level qualifications, meaning eligible students may be able to apply for a loan to help towards the cost of tuition fees, maintenance or other course related costs.

For more information, visit: gov.uk/funding-for-postgraduate-study.

SELF FUNDING

For students deciding to self-fund, there are options to pay your tuition fees in full or instalments across the academic year. Information on our fees, liability and instalment dates can be found on our website at: bnu.ac.uk/instalments.

EMPLOYER/OTHER SPONSORSHIP

Your employer may agree to sponsor your studies if they relate to your role or industry. Many students have found financial support for their degrees through this route and this backing can also act as a clear driver and inspiration throughout your course.

For more information, visit: bnu.ac.uk/instalments.

ENHANCED LEARNING CREDITS SCHEME

The Ministry of Defence’s Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme (ELC) is an initiative to promote lifelong learning amongst members of the Armed Forces. The scheme provides financial support for members of the Armed Forces in the form of a single up-front payment in each of a maximum of three separate financial years.

Funding is only available for the pursuit of nationally recognised qualifications at levels four to six of the Framework for Higher Education and Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (FHEQ).

Please note that you will not be eligible for ELC funding if your course is already being funded through another agency such as Student Finance England, the NHS or Education Funding Agency.

OUR PROVIDER NUMBER IS 1682.

Further information regarding this scheme can be found via: enhancedlearningcredits.com.

EXPLORE.

TOWN & CONVENIENCE

Our campuses are ideally connected with great transport links and interconnectivity of modern life.

NATURE & BEAUTY

The Chiltern Hills, Marlow and Henley-on-Thames are just a few stunning places you can explore on our doorstep.

FOR YOURSELF.

LIFESTYLE

An abundance of independent and chain cafés, shops, clubs and activities surround our campuses.

RELAXATION

Escape the noise with dedicated study zones and quiet areas across our campuses.

Accommodation

Whatever your preference of accommodation, there are a number of options here at BNU to help you make your time with us feel as homely as possible.

If you are studying part-time or distance learning or are only required to come to the University on occasion, there are many hotels within a short distance to campus. It may also be possible to stay in our halls of residence, depending on availability.

Full-time postgraduate students may also be able to stay in our halls of residence depending on availability. There are a variety of different accommodation and rent levels and we may be able to offer accommodation during the summer, if required.

The University can also provide details of where to look for private sector housing near all our campuses.

Our facilities

At BNU it is all about you. As a studentfocused and employer-led University, your success is what we are all about. We have invested over £119 million into state-ofthe-art facilities to ensure that you are able to enhance your skills and achieve your career goals.

At BNU we are extremely proud to showcase industry-standard studios, and high-quality equipment at our High Wycombe Campus. Students also have access to course-specific spaces to work, collaborate and create.

We understand the importance of healthcare, that’s why we have Aylesbury Campus and a whole campus in Uxbridge, West London, dedicated to Nursing, Healthcare and Allied Health courses. So if you decide to study one of these courses, you’ll likely to be based in Aylesbury or

Uxbridge. Both campuses house a range of working wards and simulation labs for our students to use. Simulation is an important aspect of our Nursing and Healthcare programmes. Students regularly spend time in these areas, to practice technical skills and use the newest technologies, in a safe and supportive environment.

For more information visit: bnu.ac.uk/life/facilities

BNU support

We are here to help you flourish and have a range of services that are available free of charge whilst you are studying with us.

THE INCLUSION, DIVERSITY AND DISABILITY SERVICE

The Disability and Inclusion Services is made up of three provisions: disability, mental health and non-medical helpers support (eg mentors). We support those with short-term acute physical or mental health problems, those who meet the criteria for “disability” outlined by the Equality Act 2010 and those who have caring responsibilities for someone with a disability. We also offer support to those experiencing injury, acute or short-term conditions who require temporary adjustments to continue their studies.

Visit: bnu.ac.uk/life/studentsuccess-and-support/disabilityinclusion-services

Email: inclusion@bnu.ac.uk

Call: 01494 605 049

THE STUDENT HUB

At our High Wycombe and Uxbridge campuses you can visit our Student Hub where you can get information, advice and guidance on a range of non-academic matters. From tuition fee payments and student finance to enrolment and registration, our team can help with a number of queries.

Visit: bnu.ac.uk/studenthub

Email: students@bnu.ac.uk

Call: 01494 603 020 (High Wycombe) 01494 522 141 (Uxbridge) 01494 603 202 ext 6307 (Aylesbury)

STUDENT LEARNING AND ACHIEVEMENT

We work with students who are keen to develop their academic abilities and improve their grades, whatever their course, year or stage of attainment. Much of our support is given in one-to-one tutorials, so we can tailor our input to the specific needs of individual students. We also work with small groups, run workshops and teach with subject academics. There is also access to a range of online resources to support you.

Visit: bnu.ac.uk/life/studentsuccess-and-support/studentlearning-achievement

Email: sla@bnu.ac.uk

Call: 01494 603 070

THE COUNSELLING SERVICE

We provide a supportive, nonjudgemental and confidential space in which you can seek help and explore any issues. You’ll get respectful, caring and confidential support from a professional counsellor, who can help you maximise your academic potential.

Visit: bnu.ac.uk/counselling

Email: counselling@bnu.ac.uk

Call: 01494 605 018

Students’ Union

A PLACE FOR YOU, RUN BY YOU

BUCKS STUDENTS’ UNION

Bucks Students’ Union is the perfect way to continue with your interests and find new ones. From societies and volunteering to events, training and support, there is certainly something for everyone - and, even better, it is all free.

The best part? You automatically become a member of the Students’ Union when you enrol at the University so you can start enjoying all the benefits straight away without any hassle.

We’re proud that our dynamic Students’ Union is ranked one of the top 5 SU’s in the UK *, marking our ninth consecutive top-five placement and confirming our consistent standing as one of the very best.

DEVELOP YOUR EXISTING SKILLS

We believe everyone can benefit from additional skills. That is why we offer a range of workshops and sessions, from emergency and paediatric first aid to language lessons, public speaking and many more certified courses.

BE REPRESENTED

With student representatives at all levels in the University, we have over 200 students actively working towards making your BNU university experience the best it can be.

GET INVOLVED

Bucks Students’ Union offer the BIG Deal, in conjunction with BNU, to give you a diverse range of programmes and activities, unique in the university sector. From sports, societies and entertainment, to recreational activities, personal development programmes and trips all provided for free!

BUCKS STUDENTS’ UNION ADVICE CENTRE

The Students’ Union Advice Centre is here to listen, advise and support you with everything student related, including money advice and personal difficulties.

WANT TO GET INVOLVED?

Email: union@bnu.ac.uk

Website: bucksstudentsunion.org

Instagram: instagram.com/bucksstudentsunion

*Based on responses from full-time taught BNU students NSS 2025.

Our campuses

HIGH WYCOMBE

Our main campus is right in the middle of High Wycombe. From great shopping to a buzzing nightlife and local pubs, surrounded by beautiful countryside, this studentcentred town has everything you could need right on your doorstep.

ALL YOU NEED IN ONE PLACE

We have a thriving close-knit campus community that our students love because everything is on one site and easy to find. With our library often open 24/7, our Gateway gym, plus cafes, places to hang out to study or socialise, and our awardwinning Bucks Students’ Union café bar and The Venue nightclub – we really do have everything waiting to welcome you to BNU.

Whilst our self-contained campus has lots to offer, you will be wanting to explore further afield, and High Wycombe has everything you need.

SHOPPING, RESTAURANTS AND BARS ALL ON YOUR DOORSTEP

The Eden Centre is right next to the High Wycombe Campus, with shops including high-end and high-street fashion and a host of dining and leisure experiences including a multiplex cinema and food from around the world.

High Wycombe town centre hosts a cosmopolitan range of entertainment and socialising opportunities, from the big chain restaurants to smaller artisan restaurants, bars and coffee shops. There is something to suit everyone.

HOW TO GET TO US

By rail - High Wycombe is just 30-minutes to London and 45-minutes to Oxford by train.

By bus - The Campus is approximately ten minutes walk from the bus station, offering close access to Reading, Aylesbury, Marlow, Milton Keynes and Slough.

Car parking - There are many public car parks within walking distance of the Campus, including the Eden Shopping Centre and the Wycombe Swan Theatre. Wycombe Council also operates a park and ride service, with a campus bus stop. We have parking for blue badge holders.

UXBRIDGE

Home to many of our nursing, midwifery and healthcare courses, BNU’s Uxbridge Campus is purpose built with state-of-theart simulation facilities to deliver our awardwinning courses.

Uxbridge is located in West London, meaning you can be in central London in no time, but also get the best of local culture and community. The Chimes Shopping Centre, local delis, countless bars, and restaurants are all on your doorstep. There is also a free campus-link bus that can take you to our High Wycombe Campus.

HOW TO GET TO US

By tube - The Uxbridge tube station is only a ten minute walk and a quarter of a mile from our Uxbridge Campus, where you can access the London Metropolitan and Piccadilly tube lines.

By bus - The Campus is approximately five minutes’ walk from the bus station.

Car parking - There are public car parks nearby, including The Pavilions and Chimes Shopping Centres.

AYLESBURY

Aylesbury Campus offers a wide range of specialist, work-related courses as well as nursing and healthcare programmes. Featuring amazing nursing simulation suites, with incredibly realistic mannequins, it has the top end technology our students need to help learn the skills for their dream careers.

Aylesbury is a small and friendly town, mixing modern shopping centres with a traditional high street, packed with independent shops and a weekly Foodie Friday food market in the Market Square.

Two theatres, museums, bars, restaurants and sporting facilities, can also be found in the beautiful Aylesbury Vale, along with countryside and stately homes on your doorstep.

HOW TO GET TO US

By rail - Aylesbury Campus is approximately ten minutes’ walk and half a mile from Aylesbury Station, where you can access Chiltern Railways and travel from Marylebone to Aylesbury.

By bus - The Campus is approximately five minutes’ walk from the bus station.

Car parking - There are public car parks nearby, including Friars Square, Exchange Street and Waterside.

PERFECT COURSE Find your

College of Creative Arts, Technology and Engineering

Subject areas

+ Animation and Game Design

+ Architecture, Building and Planning

+ Computing

+ Creative Arts and Design

+ Engineering

+ Film, TV and Media Production

+ Music and Performing Arts

At the heart of our approach within the College of Creative Arts, Technology and Engineering is interdisciplinary and collaborative learning, designed to enrich your university journey and enhance your employability. Our courses bridge creativity and technology, allowing you to work on real-world, industry-focused projects using state-of-the-art facilities.

From art and design, dance and performance to film and media and engineering and computing, our programmes equip you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to thrive. Wherever your passions lie, you’ll find a course tailored to your ambitions and future career path.

Taught by professionals with industry experience, our curriculum is shaped by innovation, sustainability, and relevance. You’ll benefit from expert-led teaching, practical learning, and close industry connections - including guest lectures, mentoring, and live briefs - that can help open doors to career-defining opportunities.

Our wide range of specialist facilities includes multiple audio and music studios and editing suites, film and tv studios, animation equipment and dedicated computer labs, We also have a range of art and design facilities, from photography, graphic design, illustration and advertising studios, fashion and textile workshops and performance spaces. Within our stateof-the-art engineering facilities, you’ll find a range of industry-standard equipment, technology, machinery, and software. With all our facilities, you’ll have the opportunity to put what you’ve learnt into practice and gain the vital skills employers are looking for.

Through supportive teaching, hands-on learning using industry-standard equipment and software, together with a creative community, we’ll help you to thrive in your future careers.

College of Health and Society

Subject areas

+ Allied Health

+ Education and Training

+ Health Care and Social Work

+ Nursing

+ Psychology and Criminology

+ Sport and Exercise Sciences

At the College of Health and Society, we’re committed to developing an inclusive, innovative, and impactful workforce through the transformative power of education.

Our courses champion the vital contribution graduates make to strengthen communities, health, wellbeing, and performance. Our course subjects include Allied Health, Nursing and Midwifery, Health and Social Care, Education, Psychology, Criminology, Social Work, and Sport and Exercise Science.

Many of our programmes are accredited by leading regulatory bodies such as the Nursing & Midwifery Council, Health & Care Professions Council, and the British Psychological Society – recognition that they meet the high professional standards expected by employers.

We also champion the integration of Experts by Experience - individuals with lived experience or carers of those who have encountered physical or mental health challenges, social or cognitive needs, or public sector services.

Our staff bring extensive industry expertise, and we collaborate closely with NHS Trusts, healthcare providers, charities, and educational organisations to ensure our teaching is aligned with the evolving demands of professional practice.

Our investment in purpose-built facilities enables students to train in settings that replicate the real world. Facilities include psychology labs, mock hospital wards, operating theatres, fully equipped ambulances and A&E set up, a working Sports Therapy Clinic and a Human Performance, Exercise and Wellbeing Centre.

Simulation is an important aspect of our nursing and healthcare programmes. Students regularly spend time in these areas, to practice technical skills and use the newest technologies, in a safe and supportive environment.

You’ll also gain valuable hands-on experience through placements on many of our courses, supported by our strong industry connections that can help you build lasting professional contacts for your future career.

College of Leadership and Innovation

Subject areas

+ Aviation

+ Business and Finance

+ Law

+ Hospitality

+ Security and Resilience

Whatever your goals, the College of Leadership and Innovation is here to help you achieve them. We offer a diverse range of courses, from aviation and law, business, security, and hospitality. We have created a unique, diverse and welcoming global community that collaborates, innovates, and has real-world impact.

You’ll learn alongside passionate industry leaders, subject matter experts and dedicated researchers all committed to helping you achieve your goals. You’re at the heart of everything we do. Teaching is our calling and our passion. You see this in the courses we design and the way we teach, everything is crafted to equip you with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in your chosen career.

Our academic teams combine strong industry connections with a deep commitment to your success. They use these links to enrich your learning experience – from guest speakers and seminars led by industry professionals to access to seasonal employment opportunities and complimentary memberships to relevant professional bodies. It’s all designed to help you build the vital knowledge and skills employers are looking for.

If business and finance is your subject of choice, we can help you with chartered qualifications in accounting on our finance

and accounting courses or support you with your own business idea on our business management degrees. We work with professional bodies, including Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), Chartered Management Institute, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, Institute of Financial Accountants, the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the Bar council.

We’re also proud of our Aviation degrees. With more than 20 years of experience, we’ve built a strong reputation for helping students advance their careers in this global industry. We have links with CAA and our MSc Aviation Security is run in cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

Wanting to further your career in law? With experts in both EU, UK, and international law, we have a great relationship with local and international law firms to help you enhance your career.

Our postgraduate and professional programmes are led by an experienced and supportive team, dedicated to helping you gain the unique insights and skills that you’ll need to thrive in your chosen industry and achieve your career goals.

If you have any questions you need answered, you can contact us on

Email: advice@bnu.ac.uk

Telephone: 0330 123 2023

Alternatively, you can use our online chat function on our website where we have a range of students and staff on hand to help with any queries you may have.

High Wycombe Campus

Queen Alexandra Road

High Wycombe

Buckinghamshire HP11 2JZ

Aylesbury Campus

59 Walton Street

Aylesbury

Buckinghamshire HP21 7QG

Uxbridge Campus

106 Oxford Road

Uxbridge

Middlesex UB8 1NA

@BuckinghamshireNewUniversity

@BuckinghamshireNewUniversity

@BNUni_

@_BNUni

@_BNUni

0330 123 2023

This publication was produced by Buckinghamshire New University in 2025. © Buckinghamshire New University.

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